Fri 19 July 2013

From Saxone Akhaine (Kaduna), Bola Olajuwon and Tobatombo Babayemi (Lagos) (with agency report)

World celebrates Mandela at 95

NITED Nations (UN) SecU retary-General, Ban Kimoon, United States (U.S.)

African black president at a special ceremony at the UN headquarters as he spent his 95th birthday in hospital yesterday.

Millions of other people around the world also joined in marking Mandela’s 95th birthday, gladdened by news

President Barack Obama and Andrew Mlangeni, who was a prisoner alongside Nelson Mandela were part of global dignitaries that honoured the first South

• Ban Ki-moon, Obama, Clinton, NLC pay tributes that the hospitalised Nobel laureate was now able to smile and nod to visitors.

In Nigeria, as labour leaders marked the 95th birthday in Kaduna, they urged the National Assembly to return

Nigeria to the path of true democracy by ensuring that the crisis in Rivers State was resolved.

They also urged the retention of labour matters on the exclusive list in the proposed

constitutional amendment.

The labour chiefs who led several of their members in a jogging exercise at the Murtala Square and later within Kaduna metropolis as early as 7.00 a.m. yesterday, in honour of Mandela’s 95th birthday, lamented the attitude of

Nigerian political leaders, saying that they needed to learn from the selfless and patriotic leadership style of Mandela in transforming Nigeria to a greater country.

The Vice President of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Issa Aremu who later spoke to the union members at the NLC Secretariat in Kaduna, said that “there is a lot of lessons for our leaders CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

TheGuardian Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Friday, July 19, 2013

Vol. 29, No. 12,622

N150

www.ngrguardiannews.com

ECOWAS leaders vow to end terrorism, others • Insist on scheduled polls in Mali, Guinea, Togo From Chuka Odittah, Abuja EADS of State of the EcoH nomic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have vowed to join forces in order to stamp out terrorism within the sub-region.

According to them, democracy remains the only acceptable means to power.

ECOWAS Chairman, President Alassane Quattara of Cote d’Ivoire, disclosed the position of the regional body at its 43rd Ordinary Session in Abuja.

Quattara, who commended the role played by the international community in restoring law and order to Mali, said that such co-operation underscored the need for the member-states of ECOWAS to strengthen their democratic institutions and unite to end terrorism.

He explained that the supA school girl with flowers outside Mediclinic Heart Hospital to celebrate the 95th birthday of former South African President Nelson Mandela in Pretoria, South Africa… yesterday.

PHOTO: AFP

CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Govs urge Jonathan to stop Rivers’ crisis From Kelvin Ebiri, Port Harcourt ONCERNED that the politC ical crisis in Rivers State portends a grave danger to the nation’s democracy, seven governors have urged President Goodluck Jonathan to exert his moral authority and allow peace to

• Want state leader to brief nation’s helmsman on security • Amaechi govt rejects new intelligence officers • Denies allegation by president’s wife • ACN faults police probe, Abdulsalami tasks politicians on peace reign.

This appeal came yesterday as the state’s authorities re-

jected intelligence officers posted to the Government House, Port Harcourt and de-

nied an allegation by the wife of the president, Mrs. Patience Jonathan, that Gover-

nor Chibuike Amaechi imposed a nine-month curfew on her community, Okrika.

The governors, who sought Jonathan’s intervention at the Government House, Port Harcourt yesterday, were Babatunde Fashola (Lagos), Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo), Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Rauf Aregbeso-

Implementation of PIB to start in five years, says minister - Page 3

la (Osun) and Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun).

Others were represented by their deputies namely, Mukhtar Anka (Zamfara), Eze Madumere (Imo) and Dameshi Barua Luka (Nasarawa).

Fayemi, who briefed journalists after their interaction with Amaechi, explained that they were in Port Harcourt to express their solidarCONTINUED ON PAGE 2

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

2 NEWS

Govs want Amaechi to brief nation’s helmsman on security CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 ity with the governor, the government and the people of the state.

According to him, they ought to be in Abuja yesterday for the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, but decided to visit Amaechi to stress the importance of their concern for the security of the people of the state.

He said the seven governors believed that the lingering political crisis in the state really required the moral authority of the President.

According to him, a presiden-

tial intervention would amount to deepening democracy and ensuring that peace reigns, not just in the state, but in the entire federation.

“We believe the president being our leader, we are president’s men. We are all president’s governors, he is our leader and we feel that he actually occupies a very critical position that necessitates his wielding his moral authority in ensuring that peace reigns here and that nobody uses him by subterfuge to create situations that are entirely avoidable. The tension in

Rivers State is entirely avoidable and we want all parties to sheathe their swords and to help restore peace and security of our state here,” Fayemi said.

He went on: “We have met with our brother and chairman of our forum and he has briefed us on the situation on ground here and we feel strongly that having listened to him, it will be quite important for him to actually go and brief the president, who is our leader and chief security officer of the country on the very, very challenging security here in Rivers State. And we believe that our chairman and brother will give serious consideration to that particular concern that we have also expressed to him. It is important as the chief security officer of the state to go and brief the

president on the security situation in Rivers State.”

Concerned about the seeming partisan posture of the police in the political crisis in the state, the governors urged the inspector- general of police to help in restoring the diminished confidence of the people of the state in the police. They expressed the hope that the IG was very well placed to take all necessary steps to restore the confidence of the state government, governor and citizenry.

But the state government has refuted an allegation that the administration of Amaechi deliberately imposed a ninemonth curfew on Okrika.

The Commissioner for Information and Communications, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari, said the state government was worried that Mrs.

Jonathan still bore a grudge against the governor, even after he heeded her advice not to acquire and demolish the property surrounding the model primary school which the Amaechi administration was building then.

Semenitari disclosed that the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Amaechi was already in Abuja to honour the invitation of the police concerning the crisis in the state House of Assembly. She explained that the Aide-De-Camp (ADC), Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Debeware Semeikumo, could not report to the Force Headquarters because he had been flown out of the country because of the injuries he sustained during the mayhem penultimate Tuesday at the Assembly.

Reacting to the crisis in the

state, the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) urged the police to be more circumspect and avoid being partisan in their ongoing investigation into it.

In a statement issued in Oro, Kwara State, yesterday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said the fact that only the security aides of Amaechi had been invited to Abuja for questioning by the police hierarchy, and the fact that only the Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly, Chidi Lloyd, had been declared wanted, had provided an insight into the thinking of the police on the issue.

It wondered why the state Police Commissioner, Mbu Joseph Mbu, who “provided cover for the five renegade CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

ECOWAS leaders insist on scheduled polls in Mali, Guinea, Togo CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

port given by the international community, especially France, United States (U.S.), Britain and China towards the resolution of the Malian crisis was laudable but stressed that more co-operation was required, especially regarding Guinea Bissau which is being run by a transitional government after a military take-over.

He commended Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Blaise Campore (of Burkina Faso) for their outstanding roles in restoring peace to Mali and Guinea respectively.

The ECOWAS chairman noted that the recent terror attack in Niger Republic was a wake-up

call to member-states to join forces in combating terrorism, a development which he said, had no place in the region or its socio-cultural history.

He remarked that there would be no going back on the November 24 date for Guinea’s election, just as he said that July 21 and 28 for Mali and Togo respectively remained irrevocable.

In his opening remarks, Jonathan commended the resilience of the Mali defence and security forces, those of France and AFISMA, now transformed into MINUSA (United Nations Integration Stabilisation Mission In Mali) for their professionalism in stamping out the rebel forces

who over-ran the northern axis of the nation.

He called on the international community to help Mali to ensure that the July 28 election date becomes a reality, just as he said that $25milion was needed to provide critical logistical infrastructure for the troubled country.

“I wish to use this opportunity to appeal to the international community to intensify assistance to bridge the financial gap of $25 million for the provision of critical logistical support, in particular air assets, deployment of as many international and national observers as possible for the July 28 2013”, he said.

According to Jonathan, al-

though the regional body does not believe in any group of people coming to power through a coup, the situation in Guinea Bissau requires understanding to resolve the challenges besetting the country.

ECOWAS Commission President Kadre Desire Quedraogo also stressed the need to expand the level of participation in Guinea Bissau’s transitional government, saying that without that, the peace in that country might not last. He said there was also the need to lift sanction placed on the country to enable it get set for proper transition of power to a democratically-elected government on November 24.

Ban Ki-moon, Obama, Clinton, NLC pay tributes to Mandela at 95 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 to learn from the statesmanship of Mandela and his virtues”, adding that the political crisis in Rivers State and other disputes by leaders in Nigeria “are not all about how to develop the economy and move the country forward, rather, they are all about positioning for 2015 presidency and other selfish moves.”

Agency reports indicated that messages of support also poured in even from astronauts on the International Space Station, to mark the anniversary, which many feared Mandela would not live to see.

Obama, who was unable to visit Mandela during his trip to South Africa last month, led tributes to the peace icon, calling on people to honour him through volunteer work.

“Our family was deeply moved by our visit to Madiba’s former cell on Robben Island during our recent trip.

“We will forever draw strength and inspiration from his extraordinary example of moral courage, kindness, and humility.

“His legacy of courage, perseverance and magnanimity will continue to inspire us – and people throughout the world – for generations to come,” Obama said in a statement.

Other well-wishers included the Dalai Lama, wife of former U.S. President Bill Clinton, Hillary, U.S. actor Morgan Freeman and Mandela’s former jailer, who went on to

share the Nobel Peace Prize with him, F.W. de Klerk.

“Mandela’s place in South Africa’s history is assured,” de Klerk said in a statement.

Speaking at the UN event, Clinton said Mandela feared and hated his apartheid jailers when he left prison but overcoming that “demon” was a sign of his greatness.

The U.S. former president said Mandela ended his 27 years in an apartheid jail “a greater man than he went in” but also told how the ordeal had left its mark on the legendary figure.

“Every day was a struggle; I could see it in his eyes even after he became president.

Some old demon would rise up and somebody would say something stupid, but he fought it every day,” Clinton said at the UN General Assembly.

Clinton told how he had raised with Mandela the issue of his walk to freedom from the jail along a dirty road and how he had been a “canny politician” inviting his jailer to his inauguration and bringing white opposition parties into his government.

“Tell me the truth: when you were walking down the road that last time, didn’t you hate them?” Clinton said he questioned Mandela.

“He said briefly: ‘I did. I am old enough to tell the truth.’

He said: ‘I felt hatred and fear but I said to myself, if you hate them when you get in that car, you will still be their prisoner. I wanted to be free and

so I let it go.’

“He said: ‘People can take everything from you. I lost my family, the chance to see my children grow up, the best years of my life. They can take everything except your mind and your heart. Those things I decided not to give away. He looked at me and smiled and said: neither should you. That is a lesson that every human being on earth had better learn sooner or later. The grace of it embraces every friend that he had.”

Ban said the world was united in praying for Mandela in hospital.

“We are united in concern. We are also joined in admiration for a towering figure in the worldwide fight for equality and justice,” the UN secretarygeneral told the ceremony.

Meanwhile, after six weeks of intensive hospital treatment, Ndileka Mandela told Agence France Presse (AFP) that her grandfather was “steadily improving” and “using his eyes, nodding.”

That message was echoed by President Jacob Zuma who visited his predecessor’s Pretoria bedside and “found him really stable and I was able to say ‘happy birthday’ and he was able to smile.”

That is a dramatic turnaround for the ailing peace icon, who just weeks ago was thought to be close to death.

Mandela was rushed to hospital on June 8 with a recurring lung infection that had already put him in hospital three times in less than a year.

Outside the Pretoria facility

which has been the focal point of a national vigil for the last 41 days, there were joyous scenes.

Revellers sang anti-apartheid struggle songs; school children read poems dedicated to a man nearing the end of his long walk that took him from political prisoner to South Africa’s first black president.

“Tata (father) Mandela has once again proved that he is a fighter,” said well-wisher Agnes Shilowane, a local university student.

Yesterday’s news was a relief elsewhere in the country to South Africans who marked Mandela Day with a panoply of good deeds.

Biker gangs cleaned streets, volunteers painted schools and politicians spent 67 minutes on worthy projects - all to mark Mandela’s 67 years of public service.

Near Pretoria, Zuma tried to channel Mandela’s cross-community appeal by delivering government housing to poor whites.

The Mandela family also did their bit, with his grandchildren volunteering at a children’s home.

They were then expected to gather at the hospital for lunch, along with Mandela’s wife, Graca Machel, who also celebrates 15 years of marriage to her husband today.

“We’re doing our 67 minutes and bringing our old clothes that we’re not using anymore.

Then we’ll converge on the hospital to have lunch with grand-dad,” Mandela’s granddaughter Ndileka said.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

3

News Implementation of PIB to start in five years, says minister • Task force to prosecute oil thieves From Mohammed Abubakar and Bridget Chiedu Onochie, Abuja INISTER of Petroleum M Resources, Diezani Alison-Madueke, yesterday cau-

Chief Operating Officer (COO), Guardian Newspapers Limited, Dr Alexander Thomopulos; outgoing Head of Visa Section, America Embassy in Nigeria, Daphne Michelle; Deputy British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Peter Carter, and Chairman, Tricontinental Group, Chief Bintan Famutimi, at a cocktail in honour of Daphne, hosted by Bintan in Lagos on Wednesday.

PHOTO: SUNDAY AKINLOLU

Dangote continues disbursement of N10b to women, youths

Reps okay budget amendment proposal

By Terhemba Daka, Abuja

O ameliorate poverty in HE House of RepresentaT Nigeria, Dangote Founda- Ttives yesterday passed for tion has continued the dis- second reading the 2013

bursement of N10 billion grants to women and youths in the country’s 774 local governments.

The fund is a one-time grant to enable recipients start enterprises that will boost their economic and consumption activities.

Speaking at the commencement of the disbursement in Lokoja, Kogi State, President of the Foundation, Aliko Dangote said in response to the widespread poverty in Nigeria, in 2011, it instituted a cash transfer intervention - the Micro-grants Programme- to poor and vulnerable Nigerians. The disbursement is expected to be completed in 24 months.

“It has successfully assisted women and their families in Kano and Jigawa states, he said.”

According to the business mogul, the programme is national in scope and will systematically cover all the 774 local government areas working through partnerships with state governments.

“This is a key feature of the programme which aims to support and compliment state governments’ poverty reduction efforts,” he stated.

Kogi State Governor Idris Wada enjoined other wealthy Nigerians to emulate Dangote and help the poor.

The foundation supports 22,000 women across the state who are recipients of the micro-grants totaling N220 million.

A total of N1.31 billion has been disbursed already, with Kano State getting N1.04 billion and Jigawa N270 million. The disbursement in Kogi brings total to N1.53 billion.

budget amendment bill sent to it by President Goodluck Jonathan.

Specifically, the budget was passed in December 2012, and the President assented to it, but sent an amendment to the budget earlier this year.

The House said two weeks ago that it would not consider the budget except through a supplementary approach, a development

which pitched the parliament against the executive arm.

Leading debate on the bill yesterday, House Leader, Mulikat Akande Adeola, appealed to members to allow it pass second reading for development purpose.

But Samson Osagie (ACN, Edo) drew the attention of the House to the fact that the budget was already being implemented, adding that provisions for MDAs had already been tampered with. He called on the House to ascertain the level of performance so far.

The Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal did not give room for much debate but reminded members that “yesterday during our close door session, I pleaded to everyone of us to have national interest at heart. I know many of us have reservations, but I will still plead on you to allow this bill pass second reading.”

All members yielded to Tambuwal’s appeal after which the bill was referred to the House committees on appropriations and finance for further legislative actions.

tioned stakeholders, including lawmakers, against politicising the proposed Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

Speaking at the opening of a two-day public hearing on the proposed oil law, Alison-Maduake said her administration and that of President Goodluck Jonathan might not benefit from the new bill if eventually passed into law. According to her, full implementation of the new bill is expected to begin in five year’s time.

“Don’t politicise and personalise the PIB. Full and efficient implementation of any law as robust as the PIB takes a number of years. You cannot pass or promulgate a bill into law overnight and that is quite obvious.

“A complex bill that has many facets to it takes a number of years for full implementation in all its ramifications.

By the time your National Oil Company will be fully up and running and working seamlessly; we are talking about four, five or six years down the road.

“By the time other institutions and entities that would

INEC to register, verify voters in Anambra From Azimazi Momoh Jimoh, Ezeocha Nze (Abuja) and Chuks Collins (Awka) HE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced plan to begin registration of voters and revalidation of voter’s cards in Anambra State ahead of the governorship election fixed for November 16, 2013.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has released its guidelines and timetable for its primary election to pick a candidate for the governorship election in Anambra State.

National Chairman of INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega, who spoke at the meeting of the electoral body with Anambra State stakeholders on the preparation for election yesterday in Abuja, charged them to engage in the electoral process in strict compliance with the rules of the game.

“Our preparations for the elections include doing the continuous voter’s registration from 19th to 25th of

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• PDP releases guidelines August 2013, in order to update the registers as required by law, before the elections.

Doing this will give an opportunity for all those who have attained the age of 18 and above since the last registration in 2011 to register, for all those who have registered and we have their records on the manual register, that is those on the so called addendum register or whose details are incomplete, to have their registration status updated. It is in this context that we have made a review of the register of voters for Anambra State a key item on the agenda for today’s meeting. As we are all aware, the credibility of the register of voters goes a long way to assure the credibility of the elections.

“In this regard, we have left no stone unturned in order to clean up and have a very credible register for Anambra State before the November 16 governorship election. You will be

adequately briefed on the current state of the register and the plans to update it,” Jega said.

The proposed All Progressives Congress (APC) and the National Conscience Party (NCP), have commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the decision to begin registration of voters and re-validation of voters’ cards ahead of the governorship election in Anambra State.

In a telephone chat with newsmen shortly after a meeting of all national and state chairmen and secretaries of registered political parties with the INEC chairman at the commission’s Abuja headquarters yesterday, the Anambra State chairman of the proposed APC and that of National Conscience Party (NCP), Chief Amechi Obidike and Sir Peter Okala respectively described the move to begin registration of voters as noble.

According to the party chiefs, the revalidation of voter’s cards in Anambra would enable more eligible people to vote at the coming election.

Okala said: “NCP in Anambra State commends INEC for ordering a revalidation of voter’s cards and registration of new voters to give room for those who have attained voting age as well as those who may have lost their voter’s cards to take part in the coming governorship election.

The NCP chairman said INEC promised to prosecute persons caught in double registration. He urged the electoral body to start with her own workers who were alleged to be instruments in the hands of fraudsters to locate polling units in the bush.

PDP released its guidelines even as the stakeholders gathered at the party national secretariat in Abuja and urged the national leadership to fight against imposition of candidates.

be established as part of implementation of the bill are in full implementation and running as efficiently as we expect them to run, we are talking of six or seven years time down the road, President Jonathan and the Petroleum Minister, Allison-Madueke, will not be in office. So this is not a bill that should be personalised or politicised. It was put forward for the benefit of the nation, the economy and all Nigerians, bearing in mind that we expect, in the next few years, to find oil or hydro-carbon in other parts of the country,” the minister said.

According to her, “it should be very clear that when we personalise or politicised bills of this sort, we have cheapened those bills and we have cheapened the effects and efficacy of such bills for the entire nation and the entire economy.”

On the perceived enormous powers bestowed on the Petroleum Minister in the new bill, she said the PIB actually reduced the powers of the minister as compared to the powers of the current minister.

“There is no law that confers on the minister of Petroleum in Nigeria as many powers as the current Petroleum Act. That is the Act that confers on Minister all the powers. The PIB has reduced those powers because we worked very hard to reduce them in a number of ways.”

Meanwhile, disturbed by the huge economic loss due to activities of oil thieves in the Niger Delta, the National Economic Council (NEC) yesterday approved the establishment of a legal task force to prosecute proven cases of oil theft, using the relevant laws, especially the Miscellaneous Offences Act. The proposed committee, which is to be headed by the Attorney -General and Minister of Justice, Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN) would also have representatives from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), armed forces, civil defence, police, SSS and other related agencies.

The task force is to be in force for one year with effect from July 2013. Members are to be announced by the AGF on Monday, July 22, 2013.

The decision followed the adoption of the report of the Presidential Committee on Oil Theft headed by the Delta State Governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan, who briefed the Council and recommended the setting up of the task force as means of addressing the problem.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

4 NEWS

Gowon urges govt to address war-time abuse of power cases

By Ajibola Amzat HE last may not have been heard of the Nigerian Civil War, as the Head of State and Commander-in-Chief at that time, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, has asked the Federal Government to reopen and investigate the abuse of power committed during and after the war in order “to do justice to the aggrieved.”

Gowon spoke yesterday during the launch of the book, The Tragedy of Victory, written by the civil war Chief of Staff of the 3rd Marine Commando, Brig.-Gen. Godwin AlabaiIsama (rtd).

Gowon, who wrote the forward to the book, said it is a “loud statement of the need to rectify what appears to smack of injustice perpetrated against the otherwise innocent.”

According to him, “this is not just an Army problem; it is national malaise that causes people in authority to use the weight of their office and authority to hurt perceived personal ‘enemies’.

“With the firm establishment of democratic governance in Nigeria, wrongs done under the military and civil authorities as a result of abuse of power can and should be reopened and investigated to do justice to the aggrieved.”

He commended the author, who he said “has unobtrusively posed the question whether anyone, however highly-placed, should get

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away with injustice deliberately perpetrated against the innocent, even under cover of national security.”

Meanwhile, the book reviewer, Kunle Ajibade, said the launch did not only coincide with the birthday of South Africa’s former President, Nelson Mandela, but that the chief presenter, former Minister of Defence, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), was one of the actors the author attacked in the book.

In his review entitled “Combatant Chronicle of the Nigeria/Biafra War,” Ajibade said The Tragedy of Victory has rendered former President

Olusegun Obasanjo’s memoirs on the civil war, My Command, a “distortion of facts” and “tapestry of inaccuracies.”

Stating that “Obasanjo lied to massage his ego,” he described Alabi-Isama’s memoirs as a book of strategy and military campaign.

Nevertheless, the author, Alabi-Isama, said that two reasons motivated him to write the book. These, he claimed, were the lie that Obasanjo told in his war account, My Command, and the library of war photographs, which was preserved by his mother many years after the war.

Deputy Governors Eze Madumere (Imo) (left), Dameshi Barua Luka (Nasarawa), Governors Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo), Babatunde Fashola (Lagos), Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Deputy Governor (Zamfara), Mukhtar Ankar and Governor Rauf Aregbesola (Osun), during their solidarity visit to Amaechi at the Government House, Port Harcourt… yesterday.

Group deplores money politics

Amaechi denies allegation by Patience Jonathan CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 lawmakers to attack the House while failing to provide security for the House to sit, and the leader of the renegade lawmakers, Evans Bipi, who allegedly started the crisis in the House by punching Lloyd and the Speaker of the House on the face, were not invited along with the others.” ‘’Equally worrisome is the unilateral deployment of new security aides to the Rivers Government House without the usual practice of giving the governor a say in who his security aides are. It is therefore not surprising that the governor has raised the alarm about his personal security.

After all, he does not know what instructions these new aides have, especially since the untouchable commissioner of police remains in the saddle!’’ it said.

The ACN has said that the root cause of the crisis appeared to have come to the fore, going by the statement credited to Mrs. Jonathan on Wednesday, that it started four years ago when Amaechi apparently defied her appeal not to demolish a part of Okrika. ‘’This revelation is a mortal blow to all those who have been struggling to distance the president and the First Lady from the Rivers crisis. It also shows that, contrary to the cynical statements blaming

the crisis on some external forces and those who are supposedly crying more than the bereaved, the cause is right there in the president’s bedroom, and that’s why the solution should come from there ,’’ the party said.

Besides, a former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, yesterday appealed to politicians in Rivers to avoid overheating the polity and truncating the nation’s democracy.

Abubakar made the appeal at his residence at an interactive session with members of the Niger chapter of the Corre-

spondent Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Minna.

“In democracy there is a limit to what freedom is all about. Your freedom stops when you start to infringe on others freedom,” he said.

He explained that without peace, “there will be no nation and people will not have the wherewithal to make a living.”

He said that for the past three years, he had been involved in peacemaking efforts in Sudan, following the war between the Republic of Sudan and South Sudan.

Rivers ACN denounces its national leadership over calls for Jonathan’s impeachment URTHER cracks are emergFtioning in the opposition AcCongress of Nigeria (ACN), as its Rivers State chapter has distanced itself from calls by its national secretariat that President Goodluck Jonathan be impeached over the political crisis rocking the state.

Absolving the President Jonathan of any blame in the crisis, the chapter instead blamed Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, who it accused of orchestrating the crisis. In a statement by its secretary, Mr. Amonibia Akoko, which was made available to newsmen, the chapter cautioned its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, against making uninformed statements that would only worsen the situation.

The statement read: “We the ACN in Rivers State know the true picture of events that are unfolding in the state. And we know that in this incident, the main culprit is Governor Amaechi, who during the last electioneering and election, sealed off the campaign secretariat of Dr. Abiye Precious Sekibo, used the Nigerian security agencies to arrest and intimidate our members.

“When this was going on, Mr. Lai Mohammed did not send us words of encouragement or support as a party. Political parties have structures, from the ward level to national headquarters. It is against the party’s constitution for the National Publicity Secretary

to usurp the functions of the party at the state, local and ward levels.

“We as members of the ACN in Rivers State have never met and passed a resolution or informed the national headquarters that we want President Goodluck Jonathan impeached. Mr. Lai Mohammed should respect the high office he holds as Publicity Secretary of our great party. Consequently, we the executive and members of the Rivers State ACN totally disown the calls for the impeachment of President Jonathan.

“We unanimously condemn the hasty action and resolution passed by the House of Representatives to take over the business of the Rivers State House of Assembly. We, however, commend the Senate for the unbiased and balanced position it has taken to send a fact-finding mission to Rivers State and find out the true position of things.

“We also call on the Inspector General of Police not to heed the one-sided call for the redeployment of Mr. Joseph Mbu, the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, as Governor Amaechi had used the police to hunt down, harass and intimidate members of the ACN and other opposition parties in Rivers State.

“We ask that the status-quo in Rivers State should be maintained until the factfinding mission dispatched by the Senate arrives to ascertain the true picture of events.”

By Adeniyi Adunola and Tolulope Okunlola NON-GOVERNMENTAL A group, Egbe Alatunto (The Reformers), has deplored the money politics currently and unfortunately gaining stardom in the country, warning that when politicians spend billions of naira on elections, the first thing they do on assumption of office is to recoup their investments at the polls.

Speaking yesterday at a seminar the group organised in Mushin, Lagos State, on “The Implication of Money in Politics,” the convener of Coalition Against Corrupt Leaders, Debo Adeniran, described politics in Nigeria as “a game of life and death,” and election periods as “those of lawlessness.”

He noted that at such periods, “killing of political opponents and arson become a way of life and money controls the senses of security agencies and thus turns them into political war dogs.”

‘Special Duties Ministry to monitor constituency projects’ From Anthony Otaru, Abuja HE Ministry of Special DuT ties has been mandated to monitor the implementation of constituency projects across the country, the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala, told newsmen yesterday.

She disclosed after the meeting of Permanent Secretaries and Directors of Procurement in Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) in Abuja that a methodology has been devised “whereby the Minister of Special Duties, whom the President has asked to oversee these constituency projects, would be monitoring their implementation.”

According to her, government has a database of the projects, and “the MDAs will still be responsible for actual implementation because they have the technical capacity to do so.”

Okonjo-Iweala noted that payments would be made to contractors on specifications by the Ministry of Special Duties. And once a project has been cleared and certified, the Finance Ministry would pay.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

NEWS | 5

Court dismisses appeal on Plateau stool

NJC indicts Gummi for misconduct, warns Lagos judge

From Isa Abdulsalami Ahovi, Jos

From Lemmy Ughegbe, Abuja

HE Court of Appeal sitting HE National Judicial CounT in Jos has dismissed an ap- Tcil (NJC) has found immepeal filed by one Mr. Alexan- diate past Chief Judge of the der Jibrin challenging the eligibility of one-time Nigerian Ambassador to Switzerland, Alhaji Yahaya Kwande, to the stool of Quo Chiefdom of Quaan Pan Local Council of Plateau State.

This followed the ruling on the matter by Justice Peter Ige in a suit filed by the appellant and others contesting Kwande’s eligibility to vie for the seat.

Dismissing yesterday the appeal filed by Jibrin and others of the Quo chiefdom contesting the eligibility of Kwande to vie for the chiefdom, Justice Ige said evidence shown from previous courts, which handled the matter, suggested that the defendant is a prince of the Quo chiefdom holding that he is eligible to contest the seat.

Abayomi faults constitution review From Lemmy Ughegbe, Abuja ONSTITUTIONAL lawyer C and human rights activist, Tunji Abayomi, yesterday faulted the on-going constitution review process embarked on by the National Assembly, describing it as “drama of the absurd.”

In a letter to Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, on the review, Abayomi said legislative authority is only valid if it is based on the consent of the people.

He described the attempt by the lawmakers to foist on Nigerians an amended constitution hued out of a dictatorship constitution decreed over the people of Nigeria as a “betrayal of trust.”

“As for the amendment itself, one must feel sorry for this nation because of the organic confusion your amendment intends. For example, your strange amendment seeks to allow you to make for Nigerians a brand new constitution.

Can the National Assembly give the Nigerian people a constitution?

Global West denies blocking Bonny channel SHIPPING company, A Global West Vessel Specialist Nigeria Limited, has formally complained to the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited (NLNG) of falsely accusing it of illegally disrupting its (NLNG) operations.

According to Global West, the alleged false accusation was portrayed in an advertorial taken out by NLNG, and published in two newspapers on June 25, 2013.

In the publication, NLNG, acting through its lawyer, Babalakin & Co., had petitioned the Federal Attorney General and Justice Minister, Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN), alleging that contrary to the order of the Federal High Court, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), acting in concert with Naval Officers and Global West, “imposed a blockade at the Bonny Channel with the aim of and actually hindering inbound and outbound vessels belonging to and under charter with NLNG from evacuating liquefied natural gas from its facilities on Bonny Island”.

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) guilty of misconduct for interfering with the execution of a judgment delivered by Justice Okechukwu Okeke of the FCT High Court.

Although the NJC described Gummi’s interference as “most unethical and highly reprehensible”, it said it

lacked the power to sanction him because he has already voluntarily left the Bench to serve as the traditional ruler of his p e o p l e .

NJC’s position was contained in a statement signed by its Head of Information, Soji Oye, whereof it stated that Gummi was “guilty of gross misconduct contrary to Rule 1(i) of the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which would have led to his removal from office.”

However, the NJC warned “any similar misconduct by any judicial officer in the federation will be visited with severe sanctions.”

It also warned Justice M. A. Onyetenu of the Federal High Court “for granting ex-parte order without hearing the pending motion on notice and applications in Suit No. FHC/PH/CS/236/2012 between Evangelist Charity O. Akah V. Alpaca Price Nigeria Limited and Another.”

The statement reads: • The National Judicial Council at its 63rd meeting, which was held on July 17 and 18, 2013, deliberated on the report and recommendation of its committee that investigated the petition forwarded to it by Nestello Gateway Group in Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/486/10 against Justice Lawal Hassan Gummi (OFR), the former Chief Judge of High Court of FCT, Abuja; • At the end of deliberation,

JTF, vigilance group arrest top Boko Haram commander From Njadvara Musa, Maiduguri HE military Joint Task T Force (JTF) and members of Borno Vigilance Youths Group (BVYG) have yesterday arrested a top Boko Haram commander, (aka Two Face),

who had been on the wanted list of security forces and youths since last year.

The arrested commander was, according JTF sources, picked up by the vigilance youths at the Post Office Area by 2.30pm, while fleeing Maiduguri in military cam-

ouflage attire.

Speaking on the incident, Chairman of BVYG, Abubakar Mallum, yesterday in Maiduguri, said the vigilance youths had been hunting for the Boko Haram commander for the last three weeks, but he (suspect) he escaped ar-

68 Benue prisoners await execution in Jos prison From Joseph Wantu, Makurdi VEN as controversy is ragE ing over the execution of condemned criminals in some states, 68 inmates in Benue State are awaiting execution at the Jos Prison in neighbouring Plateau State out of a total of 169 in the entire country.

The Zonal Coordinator, Zone ‘H’ of the Nigerian Prisons, Makurdi, Samuel Agidi, disclosed this when he led other top prison officials on a courtesy call on the state Chief Judge, Iorhemen Hwande, in Makurdi, Benue State capital.

Agidi observed with dismay that most state governors in the country have been reluctant to sign death warrants of those condemned.

He urged the state chief judge to mount pressure on the relevant authorities so that the sentences of those from Benue State are either reduced or the governor signs their warrants so that prison officials can carry out the instruction of execution order.

The new prison boss for the zone, while urging the state chief judge to continue to ensure quick dispensation of justice, however, frowned at the congestion at the Makurdi Prison, which he revealed, is currently accommodating 768 inmates that are awaiting trial.

Agidi, who emphasised the need for urgent steps to be taken to decongest the prisons across the country, noted that the current situation on ground was rather embarrassing.

He contended that his visit was a familiarisation exercise to the chief judge having assumed office in the state and promised to sustain cooperation with the judiciary to ensure quick dispensation of justice in the state.

Responding, Hwande, while congratulating Agidi over his appointment, assured on

behalf of other judges in the state to work hard to try pending cases so as to decongest the prisons.

Justice Hwande, while urging prison authorities in the state to ensure that they convey inmates awaiting trial to and from court on judgment dates, unveiled plans by the state government to

provide additional vehicles to enhance that purpose.

He, however, urged the coordinator to ensure that their vehicles were properly insured and frowned at the situation whereby some prison officials contributed personal funds to fuel vehicles to convey accused persons to court.

rest on three different occasions.

He said: “We got him today while he was attempting to flee Maiduguri in a military camouflage dress. Our boys were able to identify this man who had been killing many of our brothers, sisters, uncles and even some of our parents mercilessly.”

He said the arrested commander has been handed over to the JTF sector commander.

Spokesman of JTF, Lt.-Col. Sagir Musa, confirmed that the suspected Boko Haram commander, nicknamed Two Face, the only name he is known by, was arrested by vigilance youths of Hausari and Lawan Bukar wards of Maiduguri in the afternoon.

He said besides the arrest of Islamist sect commander, several terror suspects have also been arrested in three different wards of the metropolis by the vigilance youths.

Council accepted the findings of its committee that Justice Gummi (OFR), interfered with execution of the judgment delivered by Justice Jude Okeke of the FCT High Court, Abuja, in the suit between Nestello Gateway Group and Alhaji Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari, a former National Assembly member and the current governor of Zamfara State in which execution had already been levied in favour of the petitioner. Council found the interference by Justice Gummi in the execution of the judgment as most unethical and highly reprehensible; • Council also accepted the recommendation of its investigation committee that Justice Gummi was guilty of gross misconduct contrary to Rule 1(i) of the Code of Conduct for Judicial Officers of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which would have led to his removal from office; • Council, however, took cognizance of the fact that Justice Gummi has already voluntarily retired from service and consequently decided not to recommend his removal from o f f i c e ; • Council decided that henceforth, any similar misconduct by any judicial officer in the federation will be visited with severe sanctions; and • Council also warned Justice M. A. Onyetenu of the Federal High Court for granting exparte order without hearing the pending motion on notice and applications in Suit No. FHC/PH/CS/236/2012 between Evangelist Charity O. Akah V. Alpaca Price Nigeria Limited and Another.”

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

6 | NEWS

Fayemi’s wife faults Senate on under-aged marriage From Muyiwa Adeyemi, Ado Ekiti

HE wife of the Ekiti State T Governor, Mrs Bisi Fayemi, yesterday faulted the

Iyabo Abati (right); Special Adviser on Media to the President, Reuben Abati; Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Ikemefuna Okoye; former Inspector General of Police, Mike Okiro and former Director-General, Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation, Chief Olusegun Runsewe during the service of songs for the late madam Maria Taiwo Abati in Isabo, Abeokuta, Ogun State...yesterday PHOTO: FEMI ADEBESIN-KUTI

Police officers escape fresh attack in Bayelsa From Willie Etim, Yenagoa not for providence, some ItheFpolice officers attached to Bayelsa State Command would have been slain by armed bandits suspected to be sea pirates along the

Oporoma/Oyoma waterways in Southern Ijaw council of the state.

Meanwhile, the Police yesterday paraded 14 persons over alleged involvement in cases of conspiracy and stealing, vandalisation of under-

Centre lauds Egypt’s suspension from AU HE Ken Nnamani Centre for Leadership and DevelopT ment has lauded Nigeria’s leadership role in suspending Egypt from the Africa Union (AU) in the wake of the unconstitutional change of government, describing the action as commendable and courageous.

The centre stressed that the military coup in Egypt that overthrew the elected government of President Mohamed Morsi is unconstitutional and unacceptable and warrants the suspension of the country in all activities of the continental organisation until the restoration of constitutional civilian government.

Adding that the act of realpolitik, the Executive Director of the Centre, Prof. Ebere Onwudiwe said, Nigeria acted on its national interest perfectly dressed in

the garb of principles, adding, “in international politics, when principle clashes with interests, it loses every time. The principle in this case is clear leadership of the successful move at the AU to suspend Egypt from that continental body after the military overthrow”.

Explaining further, Onwudiwe said President Goodluck Jonathan administration’s position speaks loudly and clearly to Nigeria’s gallant men and women of the armed forces and “for our own fledgling democracy that taking the leadership in promptly punishing the coup makers in Egypt unequivocally supports the Constitutive Act of the African Union that outlaws illegal change of government.

ground cables and unlawful possession of master key.

Speaking on the attack, the State Police Commissioner, Mr. Tonye Ebitibituwa, said in Yenagoa, the incident which occurred at about 7.30am on Tuesday, July 16, 2013 led to some unspecified number of persons killed.

It is reported that the bandits, numbering about 10 and suspected to be members of a notorious gang, were killed in the gun battle.

Ebitibituwa was on his way to the Southern Ijaw council area on a familiarisation tour of police formations within the state when the attack was launched.

Also, in a statement, the Police’s spokesperson in the state, Alex Akhigbe, said

“gunboats deployed to beef up security in Twon Brass, Akassa, Okpoama and Southern Ijaw area of the state were attacked between Oporoma/Oyoma Waterways on Tuesday, July 16, 2013 at about 19.30hrs, by a boat with about 10 armed men believed to be notorious sea pirates who have been terrorising our water ways.”

“In the ensuring gun battle, some of the pirates were feared dead, others jumped into the water while their boat was sunk. What would have turned out to be another calamity was averted due to the alertness of the patrol team, and the preparedness of the Bayelsa State Police Command to deal with acts of criminality, sea piracy,

armed robbery and other crimes in the state.

“Members of the public are advised to go about their normal duties as the Police are on top of the situation. No stone will be left unturned in our quest to deal with all criminal elements in the state.

Among those paraded included a 42-year old graduate of The Ibadan Polytechnic, Ibadan, Mr. Titilayo Adewale Tosin over his alleged role in admission racket into South African university.

According to the Police, Tosin was arrested after he offered a fake provisional admission letter to one Miss Eniye Maclean Ebule for a degree course in a South African university known as Monasha University in South Africa.

How fraudsters ruin Nigeria’s economy, by Utomi From Hendrix Oliomogbe, Asaba GRAPHIC picture of how Advance Fee Fraud popularly called 419 ruined the nation’s economy by scaring potential foreign investors and exacerbating unfriendly business environment was painted by a Director of Lagos Business School, Prof. Pat Utomi in Asaba yesterday.

Utomi, who spoke at the Lecture Series on Good Governance in honour of the former Commonwealth Secretary General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, lamented that the vast majority of the scammers who are also derisively called yahoo, yahoo boys are youths who ordinarily are supposed to engage in productive venture.

He said that some of the youths who engaged in internet fraud succeeded in making money which like the prodigal son they squandered in the spirit of easy comes, easy goes only to end up being broke after wasting their lives.

Buttressing his point, he told the sad story of a businessman friend of his who needed

A

to import machinery for his business from the United Kingdom after securing a loan from one of the commercial banks at exorbitant interest rate, but had the several letters he wrote to the company abroad unanswered.

Utomi said: “419 or yahoo yahoo as they call it has done a lot of harm to Nigeria businesses. Presently, most companies overseas do not even bother to read any letter from Nigeria. There is the very pathetic case of my friend who took loan at a very high rate from a bank to import equipment. He didn’t get any reply from the several letters he wrote to the company in England demanding for the equipment. Alarmed at the interest on the money which was piling up daily, he had to travel to England only to be told that the company and indeed most companies abroad do not even bother to read letters from Nigeria because of 419.”

Again, Utomi pointed out that the business practice all over the world is for companies to give 90 days credit facilities to their foreign busi-

ness partners after supplying them goods to pay up, but has since been denied legitimate Nigerian businesses due to the activities of desperate scammers.

The result of this is that Nigerian companies end up not being competitive as the cost of doing business becomes very high unlike in other countries where credit facilities are readily given to them.

He added that in the absence of investors, that youth employment which was a major contributory factor to the scamming business would remain very high while armed robberies and the scourge of kidnapping for ransom will always be there.

Utomi suggested that the government must emphasise agriculture as it was the surest way of tackling youth unemployment.

He advised that agriculture should be made attractive by giving it a sex appeal so that the army of unemployed youths can be gainfully employed instead of being reserved for old men and retirees.

Senate for voting against the proposed amendments to the Constitution forbidding the under-aged marriage in Nigeria.

She, however, urged the womenfolk to rise up and reject the Senate’s action, which she described as inimical to the growth and liberation of female gender in the country.

Speaking in Ado Ekiti at the second annual public lecture organised by Women and Children Development and Health Research Initiative (WCDHRI) in collaboration with the Ekiti Development Foundation (EDF), Fayemi expressed disappointment at the action, saying it would further cause decline in female access to education in Nigeria.

Confab on cerebral palsy holds in Lagos ORE than 200 families, M administrative and clinical leaders from hospitals and other health care organisations in Nigeria and abroad will tomorrow gather at Lekki Peninsula Hotel, Lagos for a one-day conference on effective management of cerebral palsy.

A statement issued in Lagos by the Founder of Benola: A Cerebral Palsy Initiative, AVM Femi Gbadebo (rtd) said the stakeholders conference for families and those in charge of persons with cerebral palsy would lead families, health experts, governmental and non-governmental organisations on the path of early detection and better management of persons with cerebral palsy in Nigeria.

Group opposes composition of probe panel From Msugh Ityokura, Lafia

N umbrella body for the A Eggon ethnic nationality of Nasarawa State, Ombatse, yesterday faulted the constitution of the judicial commission of inquiry into the May 7, 2013 killings of security operatives in Alakyo village.

The body also insisted that it has not been proscribed contrary to the state government’s position.

The group’s Legal Adviser, Zakaria Zamani Alumaga told reporters in Lafia, the state capital shortly after the commission’s inaugural sitting that the panel failed to produce the first information report which was usually issued by the police, adding that that was the first error that renders the commission incompetent.

Alumaga further averred that Ombatse had not been served any notice and as such was not aware of its proscription by government.

He added: “Why have they not proscribed Islam and Christianity,” Alumaga who identified himself as a member of Ombatse, which he described as a traditional religious organization?

9

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

WorldReport Palestinians reject U.S. blueprint on Middle East peace talks ALESTINIAN politicians P have rebuffed a hardfought blueprint for resumed talks with Israel thrashed out by United States (U.S.) Secretary of State John Kerry in a blow to his marathon peace efforts.

A US official had warned that Kerry was unlikely to be able to announce any breakthrough on resuming direct peace negotiations with the Palestinians despite extending until today his sixth visit to the region.

The setback for the U.S.

plan came from the governing Revolutionary Council of Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas’s own Fatah movement, which demanded changes.

The broader Palestine Liberation Organisation, which also includes leftwing factions less sympathetic towards a compromise, said it would meet later on yesterday to draw up a formal response to Kerry’s proposals.

Palestinian member of parliament, Mustafa

Barghuti, said “most factions” within the PLO had rejected Kerry’s proposal.

“During the leadership meeting... most of the Palestinian factions... rejected restarting peace talks based on Kerry’s proposals,” he said.

PLO executive committee member, Wasel Abu Yusef, said the Palestinian leadership had “decided to form a committee to respond to Kerry’s proposals”, which would meet later yesterday to prepare an official an-

Biden hints at 2016 presidential bid NITED States (U.S.) Vice U President Joe Biden has raised the possibility of con-

swer.

“Kerry did not present guarantees to stop settlement building, nor base (peace talks) on 1967 borders,” he said.

Kerry’s plan would have seen Israel, now ruled by a coalition that has tilted sharply to the right after elections early this year, make only a tacit commitment to slow settlement construction in the occupied territories, not the publicly announced freeze long demanded by Abbas.

testing again for the White House in 2016.

In an interview with GQ magazine published yesterday, the 70-year-old former senator, who has already made two unsuccessful bids for the presidency in 1988 and 2008, suggested he could run for the Democratic nomination if his health allowed it.

“I can die a happy man never having been president of the United States of America,” he told GQ. “But it doesn’t mean I won’t run.”

President Barack Obama chose Biden as his running mate after winning the epic battle for the Democratic

nomination in 2008.

The former Delaware senator, who will be 74 by the time of the next presidential election, said his “energy” would be a key factor in any decision to run.

“The judgment I’ll make is, first of all, am I still as full of as much energy as I have now - do I feel this?” Biden said.

“Number two, do I think I’m the best person in the position to move the ball? And, you know, we’ll see where the hell I am.”

If Biden made a successful bid for the presidency, he would be the oldest first-term occupant of the White House.

Ronald Reagan was 69 years old when he took office, and was 73 when he was re-elected four years later.

ICC’s witnesses quit Kenyatta’s trial over security fears Russia condemned as court jails Putin’s foe for five years the prosecution notified the NTERNATIONAL Criminal frauding the local governCOURT in Russian yester- tant move to punish Navalny, Trial Chamber of the within Russia since anti-Kremlin ICourt has announced the ment in the northern Kirov A day sentenced protest 37, for opposing the Kremlin drawal of three witnesses,” tycoon Mikhail Khodor- withdrawal of two witnesses region of 16 million rubles leader, Alexei Navalny, to five just as he was preparing to adding that “there are now a due to testify in Kenyan Presikovsky was jailed in 2005. years in a penal colony on fraud charges.

With the verdict, Navalny, who is one of President Vladimir Putin’s fiercest critics, is now disqualified from politics – a situation that prompted global concern yesterday.

Russian opposition activists condemned the sentence for mass embezzlement as a bla-

stand in Moscow’s mayoral election.

Reacting, the United States (U.S.) said it was “deeply disappointed” and EU states swiftly condemned the verdict, in a new diplomatic controversy that threatens to further strain ties between Moscow and the West.

Judge Sergei Blinov said he found Navalny guilty of de-

($500,000) in a timber deal while acting as an unpaid adviser to the local authorities in 2009.

“Navalny... committed a grave crime,” said Blinov.

Navalny’s co-accused, Pyotr Ofitserov, was also found guilty and sentenced to four years in a prison colony.

The sentence is the most politically-explosive judgment

“So. Don’t all get bored without me,” Navalny told supporters in his last Twitter message from the courtroom before being handcuffed.

“And most importantly, don’t be idle.”

He then handed his smartphone to his wife, Yulia, hugged her and his mother, shook his father’s hand and was led away by bailiffs.

dent Uhuru Kenyatta’s upcoming crimes against humanity trial because of security concerns.

The court also added that testimony by a third witness was also no longer needed to prove the case.

The office of its chief prosecutor, Fatou Bensouda, said in a statement sent to Agence France Presse (AFP): “On 16 July,

total of 30 witnesses on the prosecution’s list.”

Kenyatta, 51, is expected to go on trial on November 12 when he will face five counts of crimes against humanity including murder, rape and forcible transfer for his role in post-poll violence that ripped through Kenya after disputed election results in late 2007.

TheGuardian SUNDAY, JULY 21, 2013

2015: North In Search Of Lost Paradise President Jonathan’s second term ambition is upsetting the Cart in the North. Early callers for a Northern Presidency in 2015 appear to have lost steam, except for fiery Junaid Mohammed and Prof. Ango Abdullahi. So, when will the presidency return to the North - 2015, 2019 or even 2027, after the Igbo may have had their fair share of eight years?

IBBRU CENTRE: What Is The Appropriate Dress Code In A Religious Setting?

Fighting Corruption Under Jonathan

We Own The Land – Abuja Original Inhabitants

The EFCC under Ibrahim Lamorde is getting too cold for comfort. The heat, which kept the Commission in the headlines appears to have vanished with Farida Waziri. In other words, where are we with the EFCC high-profile corruption

Abuja Original Inhabitants take their case against the FCT administration to the court of public opinion. They say their case is worse than that of the Niger Delta

Business: When Concessioning Serves Private Interests, Instead of the Public

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

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

10

Politics Imo stakeholders harp on equity in 2015

By Kodilinye Obiagwu (Southeast Bureau Chief) N element of political necessity and anxiety A might have crept into the desire by Imo “stakeholders”, as they discuss the 2015 governorship race in the state.

At a forum tagged, maiden Imo Political Summit 2013, organised by an Imo Stakeholders Forum, indigenes witnessed a display of articulated emotions over where the next governor, as of moral right, should come from.

The theme of the summit, Restoring the Imo Charter of Equity, with a sub-theme, Elites and Socio-Political Development of Imo State, did not disguise the intent of the forum, neither did the conveners, led by Nze Elvis Agukwe (summit coordinator) nor the numerous colourful banners from various groups and associations that lined the walls of the venue fail to add some measure of showmanship.

The banners, which looked as if they came off the same production line, proclaimed the ‘right’ of Owerri senatorial zone to produce the next governor.

One banner posted: “Orlu 1999-2007; Okigwe 2007- 2011; Orlu 2011-2015. It is the turn of Owerri in 2015.” Another group, The Imo Forum, noted that: “Imo stands on a tripod and the equity charter is the answer.”

Among the invited guests to the summit, held at the All Seasons Hotel, Owerri, were political leaders in the state, former governors, incumbent and former members of the National Assembly, and chairmen of all political parties.

There was no evidence of the presence of the incumbent administration in the state, and this fuelled speculations that “this is a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) event and a gathering of the opposition.”

Elder statesman, Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu, chaired the summit, while Prince Obinna Okwuaka, a former Commissioner of Finance in the state and Special Adviser to the former Senate President, Chief Adolphus Wabara, represented the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, who was billed as the Guest of Honour.

In his speech, Ihedioha noted that it is a paradox that despite the ingredients of greatness evident in Imo, the state has suffered “deep social and political divisions, a high rate of unemployment, a low industrial base and collapse of existing ones, a disillusioned citizenry.”

He noted that the theme and sub-theme of the summit underscored the magnitude of the challenge and the urgency to tackle the problem in the state.

According to him, although the elite are a resilient group that “provides content and direction to life through the mobility of their members,” and from whose fold the political vanguard emerges, “it is sad and regrettable that our elite have not fared well in the socio-political development of Imo with the enormous hope placed on them. They must sit up.”

“As we approach the 2015 elections, issues like party primaries, zoning, rotation, party manifesto and incumbency, nay Imo Charter of Equity, will receive critical and positive analysis and responses. It is my fervent hope that a consensus would be reached on how to address them without doing violence to the psyche of Imo people.”

The Charter of Equity is an agreement, propounded in 1996, for the rotation of power between the three senatorial zones — Orlu, Okigwe and Owerri.

Ahead of the 1999 elections, it was agreed at a meeting, hosted by Iwuanyanwu in Owerri, that Orlu zone should take the first shot at governorship under the Charter and should serve only a term of four years.

Many indigenes, like the late Senate President, Chief Evan Enwerem, opposed it, but in 1999, Chief Achike Udenwa of the PDP emerged governor. Udenwa was in power for eight years, in “contravention” of the spirit of the Charter. It was, however, argued that his second term was based on performance.

After Udenwa, Chief Ikedi Ohakim from Okigwe zone was elected governor. In 2011, Ohakim lost his second term bid in what many observers refer to as “an accident of history.” Owelle Rochas Okorocha from Orlu was elected.

A cross section of participants at the summit.

The late Sam Mbakwe from Okigwe was the first elected governor in the state during the Second Republic. The military truncated his era a few months into his second term in 1983. Chief Enwerem from Owerri zone emerged in 1992 during the Third Republic.

With uncertainty hanging over whether Okorocha will seek a second term in 2015, agitation is high for Owerri zone to produce the next governor.

In an emotive speech, the summit convener, Agukwe, who is from Orlu zone, stated: “Our goal is solely to re-engineer the Imo Charter of Equity, a road map designed by our leaders for equitable sharing of power among the three senatorial zones of Okigwe, Orlu and Owerri.

“We are aware that the Charter of Equity was on course until 2011 when a political accident occurred to derail it. We must stand on the side of truth and justice. We must uphold the Igbo cherished value of equitable sharing of common patrimony, be it power or resources.”

Agukwe dismissed the insinuation that the summit was organised to truncate the second term ambition of Okorocha, who, he claimed, “had told the people of Imo that he would be in power for only a term.”

The Minister of State, Foreign Affairs, Professor Viola Onwuliri, said, “whatever decisions we reach will strengthen democracy. Anything that will hamper democracy in Imo will not be allowed to happen.”

The chairman of the Senate Committee on Navy, Chris Anyanwu, representing Owerri senatorial zone, who cautioned the inclination towards money politics, praised “our brothers from Orlu and Okigwe for their courage to support this movement.”

“It is wonderful that Orlu people are the ones leading the push to govern Imo, according to the Charter. But we must have equity with quality leadership,” she said.

Iwuanyanwu noted that the distortion of the Equity Charter did not start in 2011 but in 2007 when Okigwe zone was sourcing for a replacement for Udenwa.

In 2003, during his quest for a second term, Udenwa had noted that the agreement for rotation of power was not a blank cheque for any zone because “no one is barred from contesting the governorship.”

Since 1999, no governor has emerged without challenge from candidates from either within his zone or other senatorial zones.

Professor Nathan Uzorma, a Research Fellow at the Imo State University, who delivered the keynote address, claimed that, “Udenwa’s second tenure was the shattering of the Equity Charter.

The Charter was, thus, reshaped to eight years rather than the four years envisioned.”

As we approach the 2015 elections, issues like party primaries, zoning, rotation, party manifesto and incumbency, nay Imo Charter of Equity, will receive critical and positive analysis and responses. It is my fervent hope that a consensus would be reached on how to address them without doing violence to the psyche of Imo people.

Uzorma advocated a reshaping of the Charter to a single term of four years. He stated that since “Ohakim (Okigwe) has four years, Okorocha (Orlu) should complete his four years and give way to Owerri zone in 2015 after which Okigwe takes up again.”

“If this amendment or rectificatory, justice is disallowed or ignored, inequity will continue to exist in the power rotation and sharing method in the state,” he said.

Uzorma lists the influence of godfathers, who insist on their whims above the interests of the people and the disproportionate composition of the zones in terms of councils, among the causes of the “inequitable power sharing.”

Noting that of the 27 councils in Imo, Okigwe has six, Owerri has nine and Orlu has 12, he argued that, “politics is a game of numbers and those that have it are always in majority.”

“Thus, it takes just Orlu zone plus two other local councils from Okigwe or Owerri where the ruling party gets majority votes to win and dominate,” he said.

“While it takes Owerri and a half of Okigwe and one-third of Orlu to deliver an Owerri candidate, it takes Okigwe and Owerri entirely to get a narrow escape delivery of an Okigwe man, and half of Orlu, one-third of Owerri and the entire Okigwe to get such. Orlu zone thus becomes an inevitable force for domination by virtue of its composition.”

The arguments against the sanctity of the Charter however became loud after the 2011 elections. While it was argued then that the emergence of Okorocha was a protest against the non-performance of Ohakim and not necessarily the desire of Orlu to truncate the tenure of Okigwe, it is still being claimed in various circles that despite the need to rotate power, quality will not be sacrificed at the expense of power sharing.

Former Speaker of the Imo House of Assembly, Nnaemeka Maduagwu, however pointed out that Ohakim didn’t lose his seat to Orlu, but to Okorocha.

He said: “I am not sure Orlu zone wanted to truncate the tenure of Okigwe. Okorocha was just lucky because he reaped from the prevailing sentiments and circumstances in the state at that time.

“The Charter is not the best or only formula for rotation of power but we talk of it because some leaders got together and formulated it.

But as desirous as the Charter is, it is an agreement that has no legal force.”

On the agitation for Owerri to produce the next governor, Maduagwu said: “Owerri people have not been sensitised to the need to produce the next governor but now that a lot of people are urging them on, it is for Owerri to search for the best candidate.”

Okwuaka, Ihedioha’s representative, who supports Owerri to produce the next governor, said, there was no equity better than the ballot paper and boxes.

“We should be more concerned about good leaders rather than satisfying the need to produce leaders. Imo people really would not care about which zone the governor is from as long as there is an equitable distribution of dividends of democracy.”

Dr. Timothy Ihemadu, from Okigwe zone, noted that “poor quality candidates distorted the spirit of the Equity Charter and only a quality candidate can ensure proper equity.”

He cautioned against the use of the Charter by zones to throw up poor leaders. According to him, the Charter should only be a road map to “instituting a viable and sustainable political and leadership culture in Imo.” “Four years is what the Charter recommends in the first instance, but we know that we cannot deny a good leader the chance to govern the state for two terms because we want another zone to have its chance,” he said.

As Iwuanyanwu summarised the resolutions of the summit, as just it’s impossible for the Southeast to produce the president if it is not zoned, without an agreed formula for power shift in Imo, it is possible some zones might never produce the governor.

“In the meantime, the resolution that the next governor must come from Owerri has thrown up questions like whether the summit could alter the reality and dynamics of the struggle for power in Imo. How can the moral resolution of this political reality be translated into equity? Can Owerri actually produce the next governor if the incumbent governor insists on exercising his constitutional right and seek a second term?

The stakeholders might have raised a moral question on why Orlu zone should not dominate power, but it has not shown how this can be politically prevented, even in 2015.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

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Bill guaranteeing basic human rights to Nigerians underway From Terhemba Daka, Abuja F a Bill aimed at amending the 1999 Constitution scales through, the Icitizenry will be empowered to sue any government operative for failing to provide basic amenities like education, water, electricity and security.

The bill, to allow for the justiciability of some parts of Chapter Two of the 1999 Constitution, with a view to guaranteeing basic human rights to Nigerians, has scaled the second reading in the House of Representatives.

In the interim, a mild drama ensued on the floor of the House of Representatives following a motion, urging the chamber to prevail on the Bauchi State House of Assembly and the Governor, Mallam Isa Yuguda to halt the alleged breach of the Constitution.

This is in relation to the relocation of the headquarters of Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area.

A few minutes preceding the presentation of the motion, Aliyu Ibrahim Gebi traded insults with his kinsman and the motion’s sponsor, Yakubu Dogara, who is the Chairman, House Committee on House Services.

Amid invectives, Ibrahim was seen pointing accusing fingers at the lawmaker (Dogara).

Sponsor of the bill, Emmanuel Jime (PDP-Benue State), leading the debate on the subject, argued that the issues addressed by the Constitution under the Fundamental Principles of State Policy were too important to the wellbeing of Nigerians.

He said it was unfortunate that those at the helm of affairs had

• Reps in war of words over Bauchi council headquarters

Yuguda

Ihedioha

turned a blind eye to the implementation of this section of the Constitution because they were not justiciable.

He, however, pointed to the inherent contradiction in the Constitution, noting that, “the irony has been that what the Constitution provided for in Chapter Two, it took away in Chapter Six of the same Constitution.”

Rep Jime described the situation as an injustice because it removes the powers of the citizenry to hold the government accountable to the people.

He said that if the provisions of the Constitution were amended to enable the citizens challenge their government in the law courts for failure to provide them with the basic needs such as food, shelter, health and education, the government would be more responsive to the

needs of the people.

He said the passage of the bill would place the House on the bright side of history and broaden the frontiers of democracy in Nigeria.

The Deputy Leader of the House, Mr. Leo Ogor, who expressed support for the proposal, however cautioned against enforcing the initiative.

He said the intent of the Constitution was purely aimed at reminding those in authority on the need to live up to their responsibility to the citizenry.

A team of Law Professors, led by the Director-General of Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS), Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN), had earlier called on the National Assembly to commence the process of legislating for the justiciability of Chapter Two of the 1999 Constitution, so as to ensure that all the rights enshrined in the chapter

for the citizenry were guaranteed.

The NIALS team made its proposal during a courtesy visit to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal.

Prof. Azinge, who specifically congratulated the House of Representatives for the “people-centred bills,” and “the sheer number of bills passed in the last two years,” under the leadership of Tambuwal, also urged the Speaker, who is a lawyer, to “identify more with the institute” in its efforts to rid the country of regressive laws and outdated laws.

In the motion for a reversion of the relocation of the council headquarters in Bauchi, Rep Dogara had prayed the House to intervene and halt the action, alleging a breach of the Constitution of Nigeria.

It was not clear what transpired between Dogara and Rep Ibrahim prior to the ugly incident on the floor of the House but newsmen, watching from the gallery, noticed that on sighting the motion, as listed on the Order Paper that day, Ibrahim, representing Bauchi Federal Constituency, apparently found the content absurd.

Pronto, he left his allocated seat to confront Dogara, who was engrossed in a chat with another colleague, even as another motion was being debated on the floor.

Ibrahim pointed accusing fingers at Dogara and passed broadside on the motion’s sponsor.

But for the quick intervention of the Deputy Speaker, Emeka Ihedioha, who presided, and other members, the session would have degenerated into a fisticuff between the two lawmakers.

They traded abusive language to the

chagrin of onlookers, including students and pupils who were in the gallery on excursion to the chamber.

When the motion came up for debate after its introduction, a member, Aminu Sulaiman Aminu, representing Fagge Federal Constituency of Kano State, raised a point of order and faulted the presentation of the issue in the chamber on the ground that the matter was before a competent court for adjudication.

In his counter-motion, the lawmaker cautioned the House to refrain from delving into a matter that before a competent court for determination and urged it to step down the motion.

The plea received the blessing of the parliament, as Deputy Speaker Ihedioha hit the gavel and ruled Dogara out of order.

In the listed motion on the Order Paper, Dogara had faulted the alleged desperation of the Bauchi State Government, which, he said, was in a hurry to implement an unconstitutional resolution of the House of Assembly.

He said the government proceeded to lay the foundation for a new secretariat in a location not recognised by the Constitution, thereby setting a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s nascent democracy.

The lawmaker prayed the House of Representatives to constitute a delegation to engage and prevail on the Bauchi State House of Assembly and Governor Yuguda to respect the country’s Constitution and “halt the unconstitutional relocation” of the headquarters of Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area and report to the chamber within three weeks.

But the motion was stood down for further legislative consultation.

Lawmakers, UNDP, others seek equal representation for women

By Tunde Akinola HE imperative of women’s contribution to the country’s decision-making cadre has been T emphasised, as stakeholders met to chart strategies aimed at achieving the set goals.

It was observed that Nigerian women constitute about half of the country’s total population and make key contributions to national development at all levels.

Significant improvements have also been witnessed at policy and practice levels due to the efforts of both male and female champions of change within the policy space, the legislature, the civil society and international partner agencies.

In spite of these improvements, Nigeria women still feel marginalised at several levels, including elective positions where they hold less than 10 per cent available places within all tiers of governance.

These were some the issues deliberated upon at the Third National Women in Parliament Summit, themed: Advancing the Gender Agenda in Nigeria: The Role of Law Makers.

The summit was organised by the House of Representatives Committee on Women in Parliament in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and the Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC).

There was support from the Democratic Governance for Development (DGD) of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the UKaid, Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and Korea International Cooperative Agency (KOICA).

The forum noted that women’s participation in politics has been limited by many factors, which include patriarchy, inadequate financial resources, political violence, lack of political skills, and lack of internal party democracy.

Hence, the lack of a level-playing field necessitated the adoption of strategies that will provide preferential treatment aimed at closing identified gender gaps.

The summit recommended increase in mentoring of emerging female politicians by women within the political space. It also seeks the strengthening of the law and policy regime for increasing women’s access to the political space through the passage of relevant bills into laws.

The meeting pursues strengthening the partnership between Women in Parliament and Women in Politics; Women in Parliament and CSOs;

Women in Parliament and Development Partners and Women in Appointive Positions, to build synergies that will push forward the gender agenda.

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal, said there is growing evidence that gender inequality and discrimination contribute to the increase in poverty.

“It does not only deny a large part of our citizens their rights to achieve their potentials, but it also denies the nation the benefits of the contribution of these people,” he said.

“There are many ways in which these inequalities occur, ranging from denying the girl-child an education, to discriminating against women in the workplace.

“This discrimination not only worsens the poverty level of our women, but also denies them the ability to own their means of livelihood or even to fully participate in business or politics.”

UNDP/DGD Project Director, Dr. Mourtada Deme, noted that investing in women’s health, education and economic opportunities are “relatively easy policy options, and have significant benefits for women, and for countries’ initiatives to build nations that are prosperous, cohesive, equitable and stable.”

“Such investments can also make a significant contribution to empowering women to take part in political leadership and contribute to building stronger nations,” he said.

To the Chair, House Committee on Women in Parliament, Binta Bello, the committee had not recorded a lot of progress, but was able to research on the number of women in the parliament at the federal and state assemblies, and the number of those in the Senate and House of Representatives.

Bello noted that the number obtainable at present is infinitesimal compared to what it had in 2007 and 2011.

“Nigeria is rate 177th in the world with women parliamentarian and this is very bad,” Bello said.

“The issue of 35 per cent affirmative action can only be achieved through a proper legislation, but that is not the only thing we can do.

“Nigerian women, both the parliamentarians and those vying for elective posts, have to come together to discuss where our lapses are so that we can address them well.

“I think we should focus on political parties in Nigeria; without them giving women automatic tickets, we might not succeed in this agitation. If they agree to give women a certain percentage of their elective slots, then we can achieve these goals.”

Another House member and former Nigerian Envoy to Ethiopia, Ambassador Nkoyo Toyo, said the advocacy for women in politics had taken a new dimension.

To her, wives of presidents or eminent personalities used to be at the forefront of the movement but now, “there is a diversification on the struggle.”

“The most interesting part about what is going on is that not just women are pushing forward for this agenda, a lot of men now openly associate with our agitation,” she said.

“I think the partnership that is emerging is an important development. Gone are they days where people shun women. Now, we are focused on enlightening the womenfolk.”

Nkoyo disclosed that: “As we speak, in Cross River State, Governor Liyel Imoke, notwithstanding the absence of the constitutional provision, is already hitting the 35 per cent mark.

“It is possible to have an increase in the number of women in elective posts, notwithstanding the fact that the Constitution did not include it.”

However, Rep (Dr.) Stella Dorgu emphasised the need for women to come together to have cohesion in their fight towards equality and proportional representation “because you cannot have 51 per cent of any population being marginalised the way women are being marginalised thus far.”

Dorgu said the population of the womenfolk is too significant for them to be left out of the country’s decision-making cadre.

“We know where the shoe pinches; that is why we

should gather ourselves to agree on the way forward,” she said.

“No country can disregard or disenfranchise such a significant proportion of its population and expect to be economically buoyant. So, we are here to forge ahead so we can make some significant strides.”

For Dr. Abiola Adebukola Ajaja, a House member, the forum was to enlighten women on their rights on some certain issues in the society, most especially on gender equality.

She said that the previous conferences were responsible for the involvement of more women in politics.

Ajaja noted that there had been drastic reduction in the crime against women due to several laws promulgated as a result of continual advocacy.

“Women are now aware that there are places like the Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) they can go if they feel violated,” she said.

“Some organisations are now fighting on behalf of women who are being victimised as a result of cultural orientations.”

The Executive Director, WARDC, Abiola Akioyde Afolabi, stressed the importance of female parliamentarians to network and share experiences in order to form alliances.

She said the programme had given women the opportunity to deliberate on how responsive the Constitution is.

“The forum gave women the chance to strategise towards the 2015 elections,” she said.

Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha; House Speaker, Aminu Tambuwal; Chair, House Committee on Women in Parliament, Binta Bello; UNDP/DGD Project Director, Dr. Mourtada Deme; House Chief Whip, Ishaka Bawa and delegation of European Union to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Allan Monday at the Third Women in PHOTO: TUNDE AKINOLA Parliament Summit in Abuja… recently.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

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TheMetroSection ‘They want to wipe off our tribe’ • Tiv monarch laments the killing, maiming and razing of communities by Fulani marauders From Joseph Wantu, Makurdi HE story of Fulani clash and incursion T on sedentary farming communities in Benue, Nasarawa, Plateau as well as Taraba states among others in Nigeria, has in no small measure assumed a dangerous level that calls for, not only urgent, but total action by all and sundry.

It is no gain saying that the attendant consequences of these violent clashes are better imagined than described in communities where they occur.

Records have it that in Benue state alone, over 50 communities in the past three years have been under siege of the Fulani nomads as they throng into the communities, ransack, maim, set properties worth millions of naira ablaze and kill unquantifiable number of lives.

Women, children and aged persons are worst hit by these rascally actions.

Similarly, 40 of the Tiv communities resident in Nasarawa state are also being visited with the same holocaust of maiming, killing and destruction of farms.

It was at the heat of this crisis that the government of Benue and Nasarawa States on June 24, 2011, constituted a joint communal clashes committee to look into and ascertain the remote and immediate causes of the crisis with the aim of proffering lasting solutions. But as the situation portends now, it no longer warrants the release of any white paper of the said committee as it has been overtaken by events.

Explaining the situation to The Guardian, a royal father, Ter Nagi, Chief Daniel Abomtse expressed worry that the phe-

Ayua Abomtse nomenon has sent thousands of Tiv people to their early graves both in Benue and Nasarawa states and their ancestral homes occupied by the Alagos, Fulanis or their associates.

Chief Abomtse said: “By the foregoing analysis, it no longer gives a picture of mere Fulani herdsmen – sedentary farmers clash, but a case of consummate hatred of a particular tribe by others in order to wipe off the unwanted tribe called Tiv both in Nasarawa and to some extent deep inside the Benue Tiv community at the borders.”

The royal father called on the Federal government, through the National Assembly, to enacts national policies to

curb incessant Fulani menace now that the nation is undergoing the constitution review.

While stressing that Nigeria needs to settle once and for all, the settler-indigene dichotomy so as to give Nigerian citizens the right to live anywhere in the country; the royal father also posited that all forms and politically incorrect discriminations should be sanctioned to promote inter-ethnic interactions, maintaining, too, that the Nigerian Constitution should be amended to protect the land tenure system from abuse where peasants are often dispossessed by the rich and powerful.

He urged President Goodluck Jonathan

to evolve policies and programs that will dramatically reduce poverty and increase agricultural production which remains the mainstay of the majority rural dwellers; aside using the ECOWAS protocols to convene a special conference on the ways to help settle the Fulani in their states in West Africa.

He also blamed the heinous attitude being perpetrated on the people on the visiting or nomadic Fulanis, noting that before now, the Tiv and the resident Fulani relationship used to be cordial, as the two tribes had even intermarried.

Abomtse further called for massive sensitization of the visiting Fulanis to make them know the difference between pasture grasses and farm crops; urging that the visiting Fulanis should always be made to live under the authority of their host communities and under the supervision of local government authorities as well as the law enforcement agents with all the rules of engagement.

The monarch equally advised the Fulanis in Benue and Nasarawa States to reestablish their own conflict resolving rituals to foster peace from antiquity so that peace shall reign and the sinister agenda of occupation be abandoned for ever, just as he condemned the calls by some people for barricading grazing areas for the cross border Fulanis saying it will compound more of Fulani aggressions on the people.

Recently, the governments of Nasarawa and Benue States, at a joint meeting in Lafia, vowed to intensify security through increased logistics to operatives to bring down the menace.

Lagos Assembly celebrates Deputy Speaker’s birthday at plenary

By Wole Oyebade T was an unusual plenary session at the Lagos State House of Assembly yesterday as lawmakers breached House rules to observe the birthday of their Deputy Speaker, Kolawole Taiwo.

For about 55 minutes of the one hour 10 minutes sitting, the House threw birthday banters at Kolawole the longest serving member of the House. The Deputy Speaker is representing Ajeromi-Ifelodun I constituency for the fourth term.

Presiding over the plenary, Speaker of the House,

I

Adeyemi Ikuforiji said it was against the House rules to have engaged in such triviality during plenary, adding that he conceded to it out of his own volition.

Ikuforiji, however, added that it would not be out of place to cheer a member on a day when there is nothing more important before the plenary. He said the birthday banters were to cheer the House, especially on a day when the ailing South African leader, Dr Nelson Mandela also celebrated his birthday.

It would be recalled that several bills and backlog of unaddressed petitions are still pending before the House.

Lagos goes after distressed buildings to avert tragedy

By Abdulwaheed Usamah OLLOWING the tragedy of a collapsed building that shocked residents at Oloto in Ebute-Meta barely a week ago, the Lagos State Government, through it Building Controlling Agency (LASBUCA), has gone after distressed houses in and around the state, to avert sudden collapse.

The move of the agency is a proactive measure aimed at going against unforseen collapse of buildings in the state, particular the area where the last incident had occurred, as indications have shown that many houses are already distressed- either weak in terms of structure or the materials used when constructing them were inferior.

Through a road show organized yesterday by the agency, to inspect building condition and sensitise the public on LASBUCA’s function in the state, about 20

F

more houses on Borno way, Kadara Street and Oloto in Ebute-Meta, were discovered and marked for distressed, out of which five were identified and concluded for demolition.

General Manager of the agency, Mrs Animashaun Abimbola, said that the state government has taken upon itself the responsibility of checking both physically and internally weak houses from street to street, identify buildings that are under distress and taking necessary action.

She stressed: “There is no need waiting for more buildings to collapse before government’s intervention comes in. Lesson from the last tragedy on Oloto Street in Ebute-Metta is enough for the state to take precautionary measures that would halt how it has been losing lives through collapsed houses, anytime it occurred.’

About 20 buildings were discovered distressed today

during the road show aside those identified before, from which five among them have been finally concluded for demolition, believing that there are still many more houses under the same problem and the agency will still continue searching for them with possible best effort,” she said.

The GM said that LASBUCA has been sensitising the public through the road show initiative on the danger of living inside distressed houses, adding that, after the last ugly tragedy in which seven people died, calls on alarming buildings, particularly from Oloto and other streets Around the area have been reaching the agency.

“People are now calling agency to report the state of their homes. After going to those homes, we discovered that their homes are truly in bad shape.

During Personal Explanations, Deputy Majority Leader, Lola Akande reminded the lawmakers of the Deputy Leader’s birthday. With showers of prayers and best wishes, Akande threw open the floodgate of congratulatory messages, eulogies and jokes and banters for the celebrant. No fewer than 14 lawmakers towed the path of Akande.

Lawmaker representing Ikorodu I constituency, Sanai Agunbiade congratulated Kolawole, though noted that he enjoyed a privilege he would never had permitted, if he was to preside over the same session.

Briefs Silva-Awe dies at 85 HE death has occurred of T Madam Uwuoroya SilvaAwe of Igiewan, aka Mama Ikpoba, at the age of 85.

Burial ceremonies will hold on Friday, July 26 at Ihimwin, Benin city.

She is survived by her daughter, Mrs. Joy Imade Ogiamien, many grand-children and great grand-chil-

Adegunle, 78, passes on HIEF Abraham Ifedayo AdeC gunle, a community leader, devout Christian has died at the age of 78. Service of Songs /wake hold today at Road 13, Avenue 15, Funbi Fagun Estate, Ondo town. Funeral service is tomorrow at Ondo Plaza Hall, Lisaluwa, close to Ademulegun roundabout, Ondo followed by interment. Entertainment is at Oba Adesanoye Civic Centre, Sabo, along Ondo road.

Adegunle

Chukwuma, 60, for burial RS. Veronica Onuigbo M Chukwuma (nee Okoro), aged 60, is dead.

Her burial rites begin on Tuesday, July 23, 2013 with a Christian wake at 7.00 p.m. at Sir Benjamin Chukwuma’s Compound, Umudiji Umuohama, Ukpor, Nnewi South Council, Anambra State.

Funeral service holds at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, July 24 at St. Andrew’s Church (Anglican Communion) Umudiji Umuohama,Ukpor. Outing service is on Sunday, July 28 at 8 a.m. at the same church

Briefs Church marks 12th anniversary HE Redeemed Christian Church of God (Turning Point T Zonal Headquarters), Plot 152, Dutse Dawaki Road, Dutse Alhaji, Abuja marks its 12th anniversary/ church dedication from Thursday, July 25, with Divine Touch programme. Night of His Encounter is on Friday, July 26; followed by a Variety Night on Saturday from 9am - 2pm.

It will end with a Thanksgiving service on Sunday, July 28, at 11.00am. Ministering are Pastors Kunle Osho, J.K. Olaade and Kunle Kunbi.

Singles’ seminar at Kingdom Pillars’ Ministry ACHELORS, spinsters and married couples are expected to B converge on the Foursquare Gospel Church, 35, Raufu Odebiyi Street, Igando, Lagos tomorrow, for the fifth year anniversary of the singles and married platform, at 3.00p.m.

They will be hosted by the founder and co-founder of the Kingdom Pillars’ Harvesters Ministry, Pastor Olamide and Pastor (Mrs.) Ronke Ajayi.

Our Lady old boys to raise N10 million tomorrow UR Lady of Fatima College Auchi Old Boys’ Association, O Lagos chapter will tomorrow hold an inaugural lecture series and fund raising of N10 million for the school development project at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja. Lagos at noon.

In a statement by Victor Badaiki, an old Boy of the college, the event promises to be a major gathering of several prominent personalities from all walks of life.

Chukwuma

Azorji, 78, passes on HE death has occurred of T Lt-Col Bona Nwokoleme Azorji (rtd.) at the age of 78.

He will be buried on Friday, August 9, after a Funeral Mass at St. Michael’s Catholic Church, Uzunorji, Amuzu Aboh-Mbaise, Imo State.

Meanwhile, a service of songs holds in Lagos on Tuesday, July 23, No. 1, Odion Close, Divine Estate, Ijegun - Satellite Town, Lagos at 5.00p.m.

He is survived by his wife, Lady (Mrs.) Esther Iheoma Azorji , children and grandchildren.

Light of Africa for inauguration Sunday IGHT of Africa Network Int’l, South Africa (an affiliate of Lgurate human rights organization) will on Sunday, July 21 inauits chapter in Lagos and the commissioning of Apostle Emeka Ifediorah as the state chairman at the Revival City, Isheri at noon.

Azorji

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

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14 | THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

TheGuardian 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 Unlocking agric with CBN’s N199b RDINARILY, the disbursement of N199.25 billion to farmers in the O country, under CBN’s Commercial Agriculture Credit Scheme (CACS) ought to be exciting news. After years of neglect of the sector, farmers had longed in vain for a regime of large-scale production and the promotion of agro-industrial enterprises as obtains elsewhere through value chain growth and expansion. On the contrary, widespread corruption in government (even in the distribution of fertilizers) and a deep-seated discontent in the system are enough to raise questions of transparency on the disbursement of the loans.

Such misgiving, however, should not take anything away from CBN’s seemingly good intentions. The CBN, or any other agency selected for the purpose must now ensure a transparent handling of the loans, if only to open a new chapter in the country’s quest for commercial agriculture to unlock the huge, untapped potential of Nigeria and to ensure food security.

If the apex bank’s intervention with such programmes as CACS and the Nigeria Incentive-based Risk Sharing System for Agriculture Lending (NIRSAL) would make any appreciable mark, CBN would have to go beyond the routine, harness all resources to check fund diversion that has been the lot of a number of such public investments. The bank has to assure the public that CACS and NISRAL or similar interventions would truly build the capacity of banks to engage and deliver loans free from encumbrances, reduce counterpart risk through a crop insurance scheme and reward performance in agricultural lending.

Agriculture is more than the subsistence farming Nigeria has been stuck with, for so long. What the country requires really is a sustained high-level agricultural system facilitated by its huge, natural land endowments and backed with solid loans like the CBN’s. Other stakeholders also have to go beyond the usual rhetoric and begin strategic investments in rural agribusiness which are vital to the country’s economic rebirth. With a ballooning population, the country has to jettison the shamelessness of unfocussed and unworkable plans.

The opportunities offered by agriculture to shore up the economy are limitless. The market potential is just enormous. Agriculture and agribusiness, according to the World Bank, could hit one trillion dollars in subSaharan Africa by 2030. Countries like the United States of America (U.S.) which recorded about $313 billion in 2010 ought to serve as an inspiration to all of Africa. Regrettably, the leadership across the continent have either not been inspiring or they are too contented with looting the available funds.

Looking further at opportunities, the CBN intervention seems to have signalled to firms seeking engagement in agribusiness that there would be gains along the value chain that they can tap into for development and profit. It is obvious that the revitalization and development of the value chain will likely offer huge potential to address food security and economic development.

Beneficiaries of the loans also have a great opportunity to make a statement with their investment as the intervention, if well utilized, can open doors for other potential investors who would then build on their experiences. Incidentally, the country’s agriculture sector is characterized by little competition and a large and growing demand for food, in addition to an open export market – a development that creates immense opportunity for investors willing to tap into agriculture.

Notwithstanding the vast opportunities in agribusiness, it is obvious there are obstacles, including erratic government policies on input and output, trade and access to land. A removal of all structural bottlenecks on land use, for instance, to attract more investment and encourage great confidence in agriculture sector is now an imperative. The World Bank identified obstacles to competitive commercial agriculture in its 2013 report to include: high transportation costs, lack of information, skills (from vocational to post-graduate education) and finance, poor infrastructure, access to technologies by small firms and small holders.

The government, private sector and consumers (who create effective demand) are all important in the process of evolving a sustainable agroindustrial development. Public investment in infrastructure will be a key, in addition to the consistency in policies. The private sector, through a public-private-partnership can promote strategy for cluster development to produce for export markets.

With CBN’s intervention, banks also have a great chance to correct negative impressions that they are hardly in support of agriculture loans because of their high risk nature.

LETTERS

Rebuilding Super Eagles The Super Eagles ouster SCupIR:from the Confederations in Brazil has generated a lot of reactions. While not being unmindful of the anger and exasperations of Nigerians with the usual shoddy display of the team in the competition, one must admit that the senior national team is in dire need of fresh talents and ideas if we are to prevent continued lacklustre display and heartache.

The truth of the matter is that winning the 2013 Nations Cup in South Africa, in which the element of luck played a crucial part seemed to have raised the expectations of Nigerians that the Super Eagles have arrived, hence the complacency on the part of both the authorities and the die-hard football faithful to the reality that this is and remains an average team that is capable of producing disappointing results anytime.

If we are to move forward and put a stop to our usual national ethos of blame game which was vividly expressed when we crashed out of the Confederations Cup, such as blaming fatigue, inexperience, injuries, etc, then the time has come for us to do a surgical analysis of the team.

This is the time to once again clamour for the reinvigoration of football academies and

the grassroots developmental programmes to develop and discover new talents, which God has blessed us with in abundance.

Also Coach Stephen Keshi needs to be empowered in terms of refresher courses and trainings to upgrade his potentialities and must be enjoined to jettison his other conflict of interest in which he seems hell bent on marketing some below average players in the national team at the expense of our national interest of fielding only the best.

Keshi should remain focussed and not make the mistake of recalling to the national team, players who have over the years proved to be embodiment of indiscipline. Like we all know, disci-

pline is a key ingredient for success in any human endeavour and we are not too pleased with the state of things in the national team because there is still room for improvement.

Those players are in their 30s and should be allowed to enjoy their exclusion from national duties because they don’t have anything to contribute again except may be disquiet in the team.

The media can also show understanding by appealing to Nigerians to exercise patience with the national team which is in rebuilding process just like our country, if we sincerely and patriotically want to get it right.

• Nelson Ekujumi, Centre for Rights and Grassroots Initiative (CRGI), Lagos.

Redemption song for Otta road IR: It is a pity that former SObasanjo President Olusegun seemed less concerned about the deplorable condition of roads to his domain. The road from the tollgate to Otta, his base, is a disaster with its endless traffic bottleneck. Vehicles cannot pass through the road without serious mechanical damage.

His government initiated the construction, which gave the road its modern look, why then would he stand aloof and watch the road deteriorate to a pitiful condition? This is an appeal to the former president to assist in getting the road fixed properly to minimise the difficulties being faced daily by road users.

• J.A. Oridota, Lagos.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

15

Business AutoWheels P42

BusinessTravel P44

The new Range Rover sport car

Pain, agony over incessant missing baggages at Nigerian airports

Explorationists seek new licensing round for oil sand deposits

By Roseline Okere HE current decline in T conventional crude oil reserves has sparked renewed interest in unconventional energy resources from the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE).

Specifically, the association would want the country to increase its crude oil reserve by encouraging exploration of 40 billion barrels of tar sands deposit in Ondo, Oyo, Ogun and some parts of Edo State.

Tar sands, also referred to as oil sands are a combination of clay, sand, water, and bitumen, heavy black viscous oil. The oil sands are loose sand or partially consolidated sandstone containing naturally occurring mixtures of sand, clay, and water, saturated with a dense and extremely viscous form of petroleum technically referred to as bitumen (or colloquially tar due to its similar appearance, odour and colour).

According to the association, Nigeria has over 40 billion barrels of tar sands, which could be exploited to boost the country’s dwin-

dling oil reserves.

The Vice President of NAPE, Lere Olopade, told The Guardian on the sideline of the association’s July technical meeting, with the theme: “20 Years of Production Sharing Contract (PSC) Deepwater Exploration in Nigeria”, yesterday in Lagos, that the Federal Government should organise oil licencing round to invite investors to the unconventional natural resources.

Olopade stated: “We should put on our thinking cap as a country and begin to look beyond now. We are just using the crude oil that we discovered long time ago without an aggressive effort to continue to add to the country’s crude oil reserves.

We should embark on strategic plan to reposition ourselves before other African countries take over our position in the area of crude and gas production in the region. We should look at the unconventional crude oil potentials in the country.

“If we can exploit this huge tar sand discovery, it would assist in reducing the country’s unemployment level. I

think our leaders should begin to look beyond the Niger Delta areas and begin to explore other regions in the country.

“Though it may require huge investment, but we need to start somewhere and we need to it to the bid round level. Government should try and invite investors to take part in the

bidding process. Even if we do not have the technology in the country, I believe that there will be investors from other countries who will be interested in bringing their technological know-how to explore the potential in the country. Canada is making so much money from oil sand and Nigeria should begin to plan on how to cap-

italize on this natural resources to boost the country crude oil reserves”.

Speaking on the ’20 Years of PSC Deepwater Exploration in Nigeria’, Executive Director, First Exploration and Petroleum Development Company Limited, Dr. Emmanuel Enu, raised alarm over the dwindling state of the country’s

oil and gas resources.

According to him, activities in the country’s deepwater show that not much addition in terms of crude oil reserves from new discoveries were recorded in the second decade due to charge failure, blown traps and complex geology in the out-board area of the deep offshore.

Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, ARM Discovery Fund, Deji Alli (left); Deputy Managing Director, Jumoke Ogundare; Acting Chairman, Bolanle Oyelade; and Company Secretary/Legal Adviser, Folashade Adeloye, at the 11th yearly general meeting of the company in Lagos, on Wednesday. PHOTO: FEMI ADEBESIN-KUTI

‘How policy inconsistency, corruption dogged infrastructure development’ From Chijioke Nelson, Abuja COCKTAIL of issues dogging the nation’s infrastructure planning, implementation and legal framework resonated yesterday at the Federal Infrastructure Dialogue, organised by the Centre for Social Justice in Abuja, with stakeholders canvassing a new regime of policy support, to revive socioeconomic facilities in the country.

A

The forum, initiated in conjunction with the Federal Public Administration Reform Programme (FEPAR), had in attendance the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Budget Office, civil society organizations and private sector operators.

Analysing a research on the nation’s policies and financial commitments on infrastructure, an Economist, Dr.

Uzochukwu Amakom, noted that there was no synergy among various policies and documents that have links with infrastructure development.

The research, tagged: “A review of Nigeria’s key economic development policies and financial commitments on infrastructural projects, 2012 and 2013,” revealed how various projects were stalled due to lack of continuity, con-

sistency, and commitment by government.

“With diverse policy documents, some of which are long-term, medium term and very short-term, there are possibilities for internal inconsistencies, as different professionals may have been engaged in drafting the documents at different points where detailed checks may not have been incorporated.

“Given the inter-temporal

inconsistency challenge in government revenues, expenditures and policy horizon, it is possible that bases for projections vary from time ti time and may not be fully incorporated in the documents.

“The founding documents and later ones’ proposed investments in the transportation infrastructure for the country evolved a multimodal, integrated and sus-

tainable transport system, with greater emphasis on rail and inland waterways’ transportation.

“The later documents proposed an investment of approximately N4.465 billion for the sector for 2011 to 2015, covering roads and bridges, railways, inland waterways, ports and airports’ development.

“Using the Transformation

CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

Rail system upgrading scheme on course, says minister

By Taiwo Hassan HE Federal Government T may have achieved some milestones in its efforts to turn around the nation’s transport sector, going by a 61-page document presented recently to the Federal Executive Council.

The development is expected to be further facilitated by a major part of the $1.1 billion (N160 billion) low interest loan recently secured by the

government from China.

Specifically, the rail sector in particular and inter-modal transport scheme would be given priority under the programme.

The 61-page document stated that the rehabilitation of over 90 per cent of the entire existing narrow gauge lines throughout the country is ongoing and at various stages of completion.

The rehabilitation, according to it, is the first segment of the 25-year railway strate-

gic vision.

The document revealed that the contract for the rehabilitation of Apapa port railway network and signal works, made up of double track of 1.5 kilometre each, was executed by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) with a sum of N860.7 million and completed last November.

Also, the main Western line of Lagos-Kano, comprising 1,124 kilometres, is now completed, while the 1,657 Eastern line, that is Port

Harcourt-Maiduguri, is expected to be completed before the end of this year.

The rehabilitation of mainline from Ebute Metta junction to Apapa local station by the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) is now completed, while the sidings are in the process of being rehabilitated.

Other rehabilitation/upgrading works that are either completed or ongoing include 488-kilometre LagosJebba gauge line awarded to

China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) Nigeria Limited at a sum of N12.3 billion, which is now 100 per cent completed; 636-kilometre Jebba-Kano, awarded to Costain West Africa Limited for N12.2 billion (98 per cent); 1,657-kilometre Port HarcourtMaiduguri, awarded at N5.6 billion to Ansaldo A3 and O Limited (25 per cent); 463kilometre Port HarcourtMakurdi, awarded to Eser Contracting West Africa at

N19.9 (42 per cent) and 554kilometre Makurdi-Kaduna, awarded at N24.5 billion to CGGC (32 per cent).

Others include 640-kilometre Kuru-Maiduguri track lines, awarded to Lingo at N23.7 (15 per cent); 221-kilometre Zaria-Kaura Namoda, awarded to Duluidas at N3.2 (41 per cent) and supervision of all the 3,002 railway track rehabilitation projects awarded to Roughton International at N1.5 billion (63 per cent).

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

16 BUSINESS

Govt releases N10b for cassava bread development project From Joke Falaju and John Okeke, Abuja HE Federal Government has concluded plans to enhance the capacity of cassava bread production as it has

T

announced the release of N10 billion to boost the business.

The Minister of agriculture Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Cassava

Volume Chain, Dr. Martin Fregene at the cassava roll out and commencement of business in staple crop processing at Agbadu, Kogi State yesterday, stressed that the fund

would strengthen the capacity production of cassava bread.

He said: “We have the support of Mr. president to turn around the cassava sector.

Representative of the Director, Department of Petroleum Resources, Oliver Okparaojiako (right); President, Nigeria Gas Association (NGA), Saidu Mohammed; PHOTO: OSENI YUSUF and Chairperson Senate Committee on Gas, Senator Nkechi Nwaogu, during NGA’s 14th yearly general meeting, in Lagos.

He has graciously agreed to consider our initial request of close to N10 billion cassava fund to further explore potential of the cassava industry.”

“All equipment and machinery for production of cassava bread would attract a zero duty.

Furthermore, the cassava bread development fund will be used to support research and development efforts on cassava bread training of master bakers, support for operators in the acquisition of new equipment producing cassa-

“More importantly, the state government has earmarked in all senatorial districts, huge acreages for agriculture activities, cassava, maize, among others, to employ the services of our teeming youth and I believe you will gladly embrace this initiative of the state government

va bread, social marketing to boost demand for cassava bread, especially through school feeding programmes and improved production of flour by small and medium scale processor.”

Also the Commissioner of Agriculture in Kogi State, Dr. Olufemi Bolarin, said that the state has embraced a holistic approach to agriculture, while urging the Federal Government to explore other areas of the sector to reduce crime and create employment opportunities among youths “More importantly, the state government has earmarked in all senatorial districts, huge acreages for agriculture activities, cassava, maize, among others, to employ the services of our teeming youth and I believe you will gladly embrace this initiative of the state government. “ “I want to stress here that in agriculture, there are various sub-sectors we should encourage and educate our youths to indulge themselves in these include fisheries, bees keeping and piggery, rearing of animals.

mentor this scale of business.

Money is not the first thing to get business right; there are things that must be put in place first before money. So, we intend to work with the SMEs and nurture them so that as they grow, we also grow with them. We would like to see the SMEs grow and become household names.

“Our job is to help people actualise their dream in life

by supporting them not only financially but in other ways.

Though it could take you five, 10 years to get exactly where you want to be, but you have to start somewhere. So, our job is to assist entrepreneurs grow and by so doing, the entrepreneur will trust us as a partner. If we are able to do this, then we would have done our job as a bank”, he added.

Why some small businesses fail, by Sekibo

By Femi Adekoya OR Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to thrive in the Nigerian business-operating environment, efforts should be geared towards developing strategies that can withstand the dynamics of the

F

changing environment rather than focusing on funds generation.

This was the view of the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Heritage Bank, Ifie Sekibo at the launch of the SME clinic by the bank in Lagos, yesterday.

According to him, though

the bank’s business plans places emphasis on the provision of industry specific solutions that would drive the growth of small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs), many small businesses focus on generation of funds rather than addressing the viability of the business.

He explained that findings show that vibrant small and medium enterprises have proved to be the crucial engines of industrial growth in developing economies, accounting for over 60 per cent of Gross Domestic Product in some thriving Asian economies.

He noted that the clinic was set up to help small businesses address challenges associated with the setting up businesses while mitigating the effect of certain decisions that may be taken.

He said specialized banking services delivered by highly experienced professional and creative personnel have become highly needed to afford the key business sec-

tors of the economy the right solutions for growth and development.

“The SME is a sector we believe can grow this economy and it has been a philosophy that we believe in; philosophy of possibility, philosophy of tenacity, philosophy of hardworking and so on.

“There are a lot of value and opportunities in SMEs. Most banks don’t have the skill to

Policy inconsistency, corruption dogged infrastructure development CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 Agenda benchmark, Nigeria is expected to spend at least N320 billion on roads and bridges’ construction and rehabilitation; N104.4 billion for roads and bridges’ maintenance; N187.95 billion on railways; N5.73 billion on seaports; and N80.85 billion on airports’ development for the period of 2012 and 2013.

“It is unfortunate to note that not all the sub-sectors’ investment recommendations were adhered to in the period of 2012 and 2013.”

He noted that it is time for “the legislative arm of government should embark on result-oriented monitoring, evaluation and auditing, because evidence has shown that available resources’ management has been marred by inefficiency.”

The Acting Director-General of ICRC, Aminu Diko, who was represented by the Project Manager, Mustapha Junaidu, listed the opportunities in public-private partnership for effective infrastructure development, including “Build Operate Transfer, Build Own Operate, Build Own Operate Transfer, joint ventures, leasing, among others.

He however, lamented that presently, the energy deficit has hit 15,000 mega watts; 70 per cent of the 193,000-kilometre Nigerian roads in bad condition, while only 20 per cent is paved, with economic loss to the Gross Domestic Product at 2.5 per cent; 60 per cent of Nigerians have no access to electricity; while $13 billion is spent yearly on fuelling generators.

Diko, who explained that the agency was created to communicate plans/policies to private sector, coordinate federal PPPs activities, among

other things, but decried myriads of challenges besetting the agency, including weak and unreliable planning data and statistics.

But the Founder of Lexville Foundation, Kalu Onuoha, in his appraisal of the Development Planning and Projects Continuity Bill, currently at the National Assembly, said the bill may have appeared to be the inauguration of compulsory planning and implementation regime for the three-level government.

The move, which was aimed at curbing the spate of abandoned projects in the country, would prescribe a well articulated goals and activities that will lead to the attainment of the ambitious objectives of Vision 20:2020 economic transformation.

Already, the bill is beset with various knocks, as the contents have been adjudged “needless” due to its costs implications; proposed appointments; poor legal framework; and political implications.

The forum said that even if the law is to be passed, the clause which said “As from the commencement of this Act, it shall be unlawful for a government of the federation to have an abandoned project in any part of Nigeria” will surely be an obstacle as politicians will find it implicating.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

19

Weekend

African Union leaders unite against killer diseases

Arts & Culture P. 27

Baby Mi Da‌ Where the old meets the young

Autowheels P.42

Business Travels P.45

The making of the new RangeRover sport car Pain, agony over incessant missing baggage at Nigerian airports

THe GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

20 WeeKeND

African Presidents renew commitment to CHUKWUMA MUANYA and EMEKA ANUFORO examine the new commitments made by African Union Heads of State to tackle killer diseases at their summit, which ended last Tuesday in Abuja, against the backdrop of the 2013 Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Report, which raises concerns about the slow progress recorded in Sub-Saharan Africa against the diseases, with particular reference to Nigeria.

Cross section of Heads of State of the African Union, at the Summit on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, held in Abuja last week.

He African Union (AU) special summit on T HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis (TB) and Malaria, ended in Abuja on Tuesday, with the continent’s leaders pledging to tackle the killer diseases with more efforts. As the curtains drew on the meeting with the theme – Ownership, Accountability and Sustainability of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria Response in Africa: Past, Present and the Future – the AU member countries also made a strong commitment to the “Abuja Actions Toward the elimination of HIV and AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria in Africa by 2030,” a decision they arrived at.

Although, the AU’s Heads of State and Government acknowledged the progress recorded in the fight against the three diseases since 2000, and the various efforts in strengthening health systems, which had resulted in many lives being saved, enhanced productivity and improvement in quality of life on the continent, they were also worried that, Africa remains one of the most affected regions.

Some of the serious actions taken at the meeting include: scaling up the implementation of the earlier “Abuja Commitments”; implementing effective poverty elimination strategies and social protection programmes that integrate HIV/AIDS, TB and Malaria for all particularly vulnerable populations; increase access to prevention programmes targeting the youths, especially young women, to ensure an AIDS-free generation, and eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV while keeping mothers alive.

Participants further agreed to step up the mobilization of domestic resources to strengthen the health system, while ensuring that strategies are in place for diversified, balanced and sustainable financing mechanisms for health, particularly AIDS, TB and malaria. They explored the importance the South-South Cooperation and the collaboration with the BRICS partners, in order to scale up investment in African pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity, especially for generic drugs, other essential commodities, and the use of insecticides for the effective

control of malaria.

However, this not the first time African leaders are making such promising commitments. In April 2001, the African Union organized a summit with heads of states and government of the region on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and other related infectious diseases, where they pledged to give priority to the fight against HIV and AIDS in their respective national development plans.

They also promised to allocate at least 15 per cent of their yearly budgets to the improvement of the heath sector. But that is as far as it goes. Much of the funds oiling the fight against the diseases emanated from international donor agencies.

Statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate that only Rwanda and South Africa achieved the Abuja Declaration target of at least 15 percent as at 2011.

The 2011 WHO Report noted: “Funding targets are being missed, both domestically and in terms of international assistance. Many African Union countries are going to struggle to reach the health MDGs as a result. Those commitments are still badly needed. The targets are important guideposts. But the real issue is that the absolute level of resources available in relation to the health needs is well below what is needed. The lingering financial crisis in donor countries also means that some are likely to further reduce the dollar values of their disbursements until their economies start growing again. It is therefore important to consider ways to develop new sources of funds and examine more critically how to improve the efficiency of health spending, while always protecting the poor and vulnerable.

“In the 10 years that has passed since the Abuja Declaration, there has been progress towards in-

creasing the availability of financial resources for health at least in terms of dollar values.

However, there has not been appreciable progress in terms of the commitments the AU governments make to health, or in terms of the proportion of GNI the rich countries devote to ODA. While it is important to reiterate the need for governments to be committed to improving the health of their populations, something that is increasingly becoming a political issue in countries, it is also important to look for additional ways of moving more rapidly towards the MDGs.” “Time is short, but solutions do exist.”

With little evidence to prove that more African countries have met their budget targets, the member countries have again promised to work towards achieving the initial declaration made in 2001. They also agreed to pay greater attention to private sector support.

At the summit, President Goodluck Jonathan, Chairperson of the African Union, Dr. Hailemariam Dessalegn, Chairperson of the African Union Chairperson Commission, Dr. Nkosazana Zuma all spoke on the declaration of the 2013 Summit and promised on behalf of AU members countries to accelerate the implementation of the earlier ‘ Abuja Commitments and step up the mobilization of domestic resources to strengthen the health system.

They also agreed to ensure that strategies are put in place for diversified, balanced and sustainable financing for health, in particular AIDS, TB and Malaria, through strategic health investment plans and strategies for innovative financing, including the private sector. Besides, they will also implement effective and targeted

The Heads of State and Government of the African Union noted with satisfaction, the progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria since 2000, and in strengthening health systems, which has resulted in lives being saved, enhanced productivity and improvement in quality of life on the continent. They stressed that the achievements of the last 13 years in promoting access to HIV/AIDS, TB and Malaria services depended largely on the political will and commitment by Africa’s top leadership.

poverty elimination strategies and social protection programmes that integrate HIV and AIDS, TB and Malaria for all vulnerable groups; review relevant laws and policies at national and regional levels, to strengthen rights-based protection for all vulnerable and key groups.

The summit also resolved to set up national, regional and continental monitoring and evaluation systems for better implementation of all commitments, ownership and accountability; accelerate HIV Prevention Programmes using a combination of effective evidence-based prevention, in particular for young people, women, girls and other vulnerable populations to successfully reduce the number of new HIV infections towards the goal of zero new infection by 2030; eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV while keeping mothers alive and addressing the disproportionate impact of the three diseases on children, girls and women.

The leaders pledged to take deliberate and bold action to accelerate children and adolescent access to anti retro viral treatment and within the continuum of care and support, the “Treatment 2015 Campaign” championed by UNAIDS and WHO They resolved to strengthen the use of effective insecticides for control and elimination of malaria, including the use of dichlorodiphenyltrichoroethane ( DDT), where it is suitable; intensify the use of Larval Source Management ( LCM) where suitable for the control and elimination of malaria; provide uninterrupted supply of life-saving malaria commodities to prevent resurgence of malaria that can occur rapidly with debasing loss of life; Strengthen mechanisms to increase coverage and access to services for detection and teat net for tuberculosis, multi drug resistant tuberculosis and TB in children vulnerable populations and involvement of communities in TB interventions.

They also agreed to meaningfully engage people living with HIV and members of other key populations as partners in ensuring ac-

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

WEEKEND 21

tackle AIDS pandemic, amid fresh fears countability and the effectiveness of national AIDS, TB and Malaria responses; create an enabling environment to support and leverage technological innovation as well a s manufacturing capacity in the area of medicines, vaccines and diagnostics and laboratory reagents, contributing to the strengthening of the capacity of the health system; support the reinforcement of the policy environment and regulatory systems, including through active cooperation between members states to boost investment in the local production of quality essential medicines; and explore in particular, south- south cooperation, and collaboration with the Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa ( BRICS) partners to The meeting further requested the AU Commission to work out the modalities of establishing an African Centre for Diseases Control ; and expressed that the way forward would be in line with and support the implementation of the African Union health-related programmes as contained in the Commission Strategic Plan 2014-2017. They also agreed to render progress reports every six month to the Commission on the implementation of all the health set targets and improving attendance at meetings.

Statistics available from the summit indicate that Africa requires a whopping $3.6 billion yearly for the prevention and control of malaria. Commissioner for Social Affairs at the regional body, Dr Mustapha Kaloko told The Guardian that AU was ready to work with all stakeholders to ensure that the funding gap, “which is now shockingly standing at US$3.6 billion for Africa alone is narrowed.”

He said: “Our position is undoubtedly under- Onyebuchi Idoko standable: our people are in the firing line. For that reason, the continental organization will They noted: “The rapidly evolving evidence wards in search for a solution. We must begin to not allow gains made in the trying times to roll back malaria to be reversed or permit the mo- base for HIV testing and HIV treatment raise a de-emphasise reliance on external funding and mentum to eradicate the killer disease to di- number of technical issues. Yet, the most im- importation of essential medicines required for minish. It is against this background, therefore, portant factor of all is the commitment we our treatment programmes. We must stand in that serious consideration should be given to each bring to the AIDS response. To end the solidarity with one another, be proactive to our the fashioning of innovative domestic funding AIDS epidemic, we must work together. Only health challenges and increase inter-continenmodels in order to close the gap created by re- through partnership, beginning with the tal scientific research partnerships and develceding resources towards the fight against leadership of the countries burdened by HIV opment efforts to complement the various and supported by the collective determina- national and regional plans already underway.

Malaria.

“For too long, political instability, insecurity, He added: “The continental organization’s tion of all stakeholders, can reach our comand infectious diseases have beclouded our efmon goal.” history in the struggles against Malaria, illusWith roughly 1000 days left to reach the forts at rapid development and effective optitrates its avowed determination not to give up or give in to a merciless and deadly disease that global target of 15 million people on anti- mization of the abundant potential of our has claimed the lives of millions of our people retrovial therapy by 2015, the report reveals continent. However, today, there is renewed especially children. The AU is prepared to try all that in some developing countries, the foun- hope, that together and with home-grown inioptions, including new ideas, in order to fight dations for ending the AIDS epidemic are be- tiatives we can systematically and comprehenthe scourge. We also believe that more needs to ing established by scaling up HIV treatment sively address these tough challenges.”

However, while the 2013 Millennium be done to save lives in Africa, through scaling combined with expanding access to other esDevelopment Goals Report, released by the UN sential programmatic activities. up partnerships, investment in prevention and on July 1 affirmed that most sub-Saharan Africa timely diagnosis and prompt treatment of Malaria. This will only have impact if commu- Speaking on the benefits of rapidly scaling up countries were “within the grasp” of meeting nities are dedicated and determined to take in- antiretrovial therapy, the intervention says the targets on health and education, it identiscaling up antiretrovial therapy preserves fied Nigeria, Sierra Leone and Somalia as counformed action as required.”

There is also the additional burden of $2.4 bil- and strengthens the health and well being of tries with the highest number of under-five death rates of 180 or more per 1,000 live births. lion required to meet global HIV coverage and the adolescents and working age adults.

A report released on June 25 by the UNAIDS, The report noted: “Investing in HIV treattreatment by 2015. Nigeria has the second highUnited Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) and the ment generates economic returns up to three est HIV burden in the world with 3.4 million people estimated to be living with HIV as at times the investment, increasing productiv- PEPFAR revealed that despite the reduction of 2012. A Joint United Nations Programme on ity, preventing children from becoming or- new HIV infections among children by 50 per HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) released at the Summit pro- phaned and deferred the health care costs cent or more in seven countries in sub Saharan vides some hope in achieving zero new infec- associated with advanced HIV related ill- Africa, “new infections among children in Nigeria- which has the largest number of chiltions, zero discrimination, and zero nesses.

President Jonathan, has promised to accel- dren acquiring HIV (nearly 60 000 new HIV inAIDS-related deaths, but domestic funding could still be a huge challenge, going by official erate the HIV war as he launched fections among children in 2012)- remained the President’s Comprehensive Response largely unchanged since 2009.” It added: fears.

The report notes that by 2015, reaching 80 per- Plan, PCRP, to accelerate the implementation “Without urgent action in Nigeria, the global cent coverage using the new WHO 2013 treat- of key interventions to bridge existing serv- target for 2015 may not be reached.”

However, researchers blame the situation on ment guidelines criteria would require an ice gaps. He said: “Furthermore, 491, 021 HIV additional US $ 2.2- 2.4billion on top of the treat- positive persons out of an eligible population poor ante natal clinic attendance by pregnant ment costs estimated, using the 2010 guide- of 1.6 million were accessing Anti-Retroviral women who prefer to patronize traditional lines. “This expenditure will be money well Therapy, ART, as at December 2012, which rep- birth attendant or deliver at home. A recent spent as previous analyses have demonstrated, resents 30 percent of national need. The over- WHO- led study, published in PLOS One noted that treatment is both cost effective and poten- all gaps in access to HIV/AIDS service remain a that, almost 50 per cent of women in Low- and great challenge, given the fact that Nigeria Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) do not receive tially cost saving over time,” the report notes.

According to UNAIDS, Treatment 2015 offers has the second highest HIV burden in the adequate antenatal care or rather attend ante countries and partners both practical and in- world with 3.4 million people estimated to be natal clinics where they can access PMTCT. According to the study, antenatal coverage novative ways of increasing the number of peo- living with HIV as at 2012”. rates in sub Saharan Africa has improved On the need for locally-sourced funding ple accessing treatment, which will both allow people to live longer and healthier lives and and patronage of African pharmaceutical slightly during the last two decades, but the manufacturing industries, Jonathan said: “I number of women visiting four or more times prevent new infections.

In a joint statement in Abuja, the WHO), strongly advocate that Africa should look in- has remained static, at about 44 per cent. The sitGlobal Fund, the United States Global AIDS Coordinator and UNAIDS harped on the need for unity in the HIV/AIDS fight, moving forward. Despite the reduction of new HIV infections among children by 50 per cent Margaret Chan, Director General World Health Organization (WHO), Mark Dybul, Executive or more in seven countries in sub Saharan Africa, the Report had this on Director, The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Nigeria: New infections among children in Nigeria, which has the largest Tuberculosis and Malaria, Eric Goosby, Ambassador, United States Global AIDS number of children acquiring HIV (nearly 60 000 new HIV infections among Coordinator, Michel Sidibe, Executive Director, children in 2012)- remained largely unchanged since 2009. Without urgent UNAIDS all jointly signed the statement on the action in Nigeria, the global target for 2015 may not be reached new strategy.

uation has also affected targets to reduce maternal deaths. Data from the WHO indicate that in many LMICs, especially in subSaharan Africa, the rate of decline in Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) is less than one per cent per year. In some countries (South Africa, Nigeria, Mozambique, and Swaziland), rates appear to be increasing.

Nigeria’s move against HIV in children Director General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Prof. John Idoko, told The Guardian: “PMTCT of HIV remains one of the biggest challenges in our response to HIV in Nigeria. We have acknowledged this and the country is addressing this challenge at all levels.”

Idoko, however, said on the president’s directive, NACA, in collaboration with partners, has recently developed the Presidential Emergency Response Plan (PERP) which aims to: increase PMTCT delivery points by 500; test two million pregnant women annually for the next two years; provide antiretroviral drugs for 80,000 women for the next two years; and provide Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) services to 80,000 newborns of HIV positive mothers.

Idoko said that Nigeria currently has 1,410 PMTCT sites, well below the number required for adequate coverage, but still a significant progress from the 650 sites in 2009.

He also said that the number of pregnant women who receive antiretroviral interventions increased from 11 per cent in 2009 to 21 percent in 2012. “This is far from the target we have set for ourselves. As a result, we have been reviewing the reasons behind the slow progress and putting in place new plans and structures to accelerate the progress of PMTCT in the country,” Idoko said.

The Director General said specific means to address the PMTCT challenges include: a scale up PMTCT plan for the whole country but with more investment in the 12 +one states which are responsible for 70 per cent of the burden of Mother To Child Transmission (MTCT); decentralization of PMTCT services from urban areas to rural communities, using the Primary Health Clinics (PHCs); operational research (deep dives, bottle neck analysis) on PMTCT in collaboration with partners to identify bottlenecks and issues related to PMTCT; strengthening ownership and leadership of the PMTCT program at the level of the states and local councils; and improving the coordinating structures at the level of the states and local councils, to ensure the states drive the program and foster sustainability.

Idoko expressed his confidence that if the country put these in place in addition to ongoing efforts, the indices will change dramatically in the next report.

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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

ExecutiveBrief EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT

INFOTECH4DEXECUTIVES

TRIPPLEA ASSOCIATES LIMITED

In association with

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

EXECUTIVE FINANCE Edition 272

he International Facility Management Association, IFMA, (Nigeria Chapter) is a not for profit Association incorporated in 1997 as an affiliate of IFMA Worldwide, with Head Quarters in Houston, USA. IFMA's vision is to universally represent Facility Management as a profession. IFMA's core purpose remains to strengthen and advance the knowledge base essential to leading the integration and optimization of the built environment worldwide. Facility Management is a profession that encompasses multiple disciplines to ensure functionality of the built environment by integrating People, Place, Process and Technology. The President of IFMA, Nigeria, Ms Iyabo Aboaba in this interview spoke on the Focus of a CEO.

T

The quality of Human Resources in an Organisation is a key Competitive Advantage within their State Offices to ensure efficiency and excellence. The Association has greatly helped to advance FM in Nigeria.

What has been the biggest challenge of FM in Nigeria?

There are several challenges facing Facility Management practice in Nigeria today, primary among which is limited Briefly tell us about IFMA Nigeria? industry knowledge and experience among clients and conIn the early 1970s, a move toward using systems furniture tractors. A lot of people do not know how facility manage(commonly referred to as cubicles) and the introduction of computer terminals into the workplace helped set the evolu- ment should be run or how to structure an FM contract. The tionary course of facility management (FM). As FM grew, those second major challenge is the dearth in skills. When you provide service to people, the person paying wants to tasked with overseeing the new workplace were in need of believe that you have the capacity and capability to deliver guidance. At that time, there was no organization that focused on providing information to manage the office envi- on the agreed quality. That capability is based on the ronment. The association was incorporated in Nigeria in 1997 resources you have as well as the resources you can get from outside. Regrettably, getting skilled technicians is a as an affiliate of IFMA Worldwide, with Head Quarters in Houston, USA. Some concerned new generation practitioners major challenge today. Another major challenge is in the quality of materials available in the market. There is a lot of in FM got together in Lagos in 1995 and founded IFMA in Nigeria. The establishment of IFMA was borne out of a desire adulteration of even critical products like spare parts and to provide Nigeria with the opportunity of developing a main- diesel and if you are not trained, you may be unable to differentiate them from the original. There are also challenges tenance culture that will shape the future of the country. regarding appreciation of the value we render. This is parWhat has been the impact of the ticularly a major issue in Association on FM in Nigeria?

Nigeria. People hardly appreciate IFMA Nigeria has provided and when you prevent problems continues to provide high qualifrom happening; they would ty International education and rather pay someone to training. Dynamic approaches fight a fire and don't understand to FM provide our members why they should pay someone to with the tools fundaprevent it from occurring in the mental to managing first place. We work from a model the workplace effiof preventive maintenance and ciently. Chapter it is disheartening to find that meetings and many people are reluctant to Facility Tours propay the right rates for that level vide members with of expertise. As a result, it is the opportunity to very challenging for facility share best practices management companies to and ideas among stand as profitable organisathemselves and also tions and when you are not provides an avenue profitable, you are unable to to network for perget the best hands. However, sonal and profesour members defy the odds sional growth. to recruit the best hands and IFMA Nigeria we pay them well so they are Chapter initiated motivated to do their work well. the commencement What does IFMA Nigeria set out to of the FM program at accomplish? the University of Lagos, IFMA desires to become a regulatory Akoka. Through the work of body for FM in Nigeria, setting stanIFMA Nigeria, other organizadards and ensuring that the maintenance tions and State Governments culture is fully imbibed in all infrastrucare imbibing best practices in tures in Nigeria. The role of IFMA will be to Facility Management and setset an example, encourage and ensure ting up Facility that all IFMA members across Management Nigeria embark on at least one Departments activity to raise awareness and cele-

brate the FM profession in Nigeria. IFMA embarked on Radio and Television Awareness Programs and a Lecture was organised in Lagos Island LGA on FM. In addition, IFMA members conducted an environmental services/clean-u exercise in Lagos, tagged 'Getting down and dirty to clean up Lagos'.

What are the significance and benefits derived from the World FM Day? Ans. It was a time to celebrate FM. To look back and see how far we have come and how well we have done. Most especially, it was a time when the FM community comes together to proffer solutions to consistent issues, raise awareness so that more people can become FM conscious and project the importance of FM to our Country. The more people become aware of FM and bring its ideology to bear in their everyday lives, the better we will be as a nation and people. World FM Day helps keep the FM Industry in Nigeria on its toes, based on the various enlightenment programs and activities highlighting current best practices and latest trends in FM across the world that Nigeria can emulate.

What are the unique factors that stand IFMA Nigeria out?

IFMA is an Association that embraces different Professions, Architects, Estate Surveyors, Quantity Surveyors, Administrators, Accountants etc. all work hand in hand within the FM structure to deliver quality and excellent standards in the 'built environment'. IFMA Nigeria is affiliated to IFMA International with Head Quarters in Houston, USA. The Association and its Chapters work together to support Facility Managers through career development, education/research programs and also through attendance at the annual World Work-Place Conference - a gathering of FM professionals from around the world who come to share their experiences and elevate the importance of FM worldwide.

How would you describe the global recession and how has it affected IFMA Nigeria as an Association?

The global recession has generally affected Countries and Individuals alike. For IFMA Nigeria, it has helped the Association become more broad minded, searching out other viable ways to achieve excellence in FM. Reducing costs, while still maintaining highest level of quality in product and service delivery; Continuous and early assessment of facilities, damage control etc are some ways where we have shown innovation. The global recession indeed has made the majority of professionals in the FM industry, better managers. IFMA Nigeria operates an open door policy and gladly welcomes all public/private stakeholders who desire to join the Association and take IFMA to the next level in Nigeria.

What are the critical factors for Business success in Nigeria?

Passion is vital to the success of every enterprise. We all know the principles of success like hard work, perseverance and honesty. I will quickly add that to succeed in the 21st century, you must have a functional website. Businesses have gone beyond opening a shop and restrict yourself there. You need all the electronic gadgets like a blackberry phone, a laptop, a website so that from any corner of your room, you can transact business. You also need to have an in-depth knowledge of the type of business you want to do. You can equally attend business schools to brush up your knowledge about the global business environment. Critical success factors are both internal and external, because to operate in this business you need a lot of perseverance, resilience and determination because of the many high priority issues. Leadership especially, must be focused, visionary and passionate about achieving excellence.

The quality of human resource is also a key competitive advantage and for us, we only engage the best people and I’m blessed to be supported by an excellent team.

What can Government do generally and differently to help the growth of FM industry in Nigeria?

The government can greatly assist by granting the Association its Charter so that IFMA will be in a better and stronger position to implement and regulate policies on FM in Nigeria. Also, IFMA would be glad to work with government agencies on the Federal and State levels on Training, Education, Research and establishment of current best practices of FM in Nigeria.

Iyabo Aboabaantage

What is your leadership philosophy?

IFMA’s strategic leadership team (SLT) is led by the president and chief executive officer. The SLT is responsible for conducting the business of the association and for implementing strategies to achieve the objectives defined in IFMA’s strategy map and balanced scorecard. The SLT aligns staff, volunteers and other resources to achieve the desired outcomes. I believe in carrying everybody along in decision making.

For Advertisement and Enquiries 08025070837 08156388800, E-mail:editor.executivebrief@trippleagroup.com

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19 , 2013

24 | EXECUTIVEBRIEF

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT he World Facilities Management Day was celeT brated on the 27th June, 2013 all over world with the core message of ‘Creating, Learning and Sharing’ in the facility management industry. One organization that has made waves in the industry is Total Facilities Management Limited, established in 1997 with the aim of providing high quality Facility Management/Maintenance services to both public and private sectors. The company’s influence is anchored on customer satisfaction and retention with a vision to coordinate the workplace, the people and the business of a client's organization, in such a way that the core business of an organization is achieved effectively while its mission is to offer valued clients an integrated facility management services that is customer oriented and professional in nature. They are committed to increasing their client’s productivity and profitability by offering services, which will relieve them with problems that relate to the management of their facilities.

This process allows their clients the time to excel in their core business and core

values which include the realization of its mission being anchored on the following values: Customer Advocacy, Quality Services, Reliability, Team Work, Social Responsibility, Commitment to Excellence and Professionalism and health and Environmental Safety Mrs. Nwando Chukwurah, the Managing Director of the company, while speaking with Yinka Bello said that the World FM Day 2013 reiterates best practices (norms and values, processes and procedures) of Facilities Management in the minds of its employees and clients. In general, the FM industry in Nigeria will bring opportunities to create ideas, share these ideas and learn from each other, hence creating new benchmarks that will improve FM services in Nigeria while having strategic alliance and partnership local and international organizations, holding corporate membership of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) both local and international bodies with several staff being members of IFMA and BIFM. Human Capital is crucial in any economy and the company’s view in this regards vis-à-vis it operational

INFOTECH4DEXECUTIVES

By Dr. Oyedokun Ayodeji Oyewole

e use many different methods to protect the things in our lives that are important to us. We use banks to protect our money, insurance plans to protect our physical assets and various systems to protect ourselves. Your company’s documents are a critical component to accomplishing your mission and achieving your business goals, how well do organisations protect them? Your longterm success is dependent upon your ability to protect and manage these assets.

Effectively securing your documents provides protection from unauthorized access and the associated risks. In our ever changing technology based world, it is imperative to have control over all of your documents in order to maintain control of your organization and your future.

W

What Are the Challenges Securing Paper Documents?

Paper documents are inherently difficult to manage and particularly hard to secure. Other than locking file rooms or storage devices there simply aren't a lot of options when it comes to securing paper documents.

Some Document Management systems provide some level of document security by requiring that paper files be checked out by reading a file ID barcode and identifying the user requesting the file. These systems are diligently used to prevent unauthorized user from gaining access to files they shouldn’t have.

Advantages of Document Management Systems Implementing a Document Management Solution provides inherent security and control of your critical documents and information: With a Document Management Solution all of your disparate documents are stored electronically in a single system. Within the system files and documents are organized

Human Capital is Critical to Business Success performance and growth, is the most important resource in the company’s line of business; adequate training and career development is ensured, and the company’s knowledgeable workforce improves its operational performance and growth.

According to Mrs. Nwando Chukwurah, “Productive, client-oriented, proactive and effective leadership and corporate governance philosophy is anchored on Leadership by example – impacting positively on staff and ensuring they improve in their productivity. Total Facilities Management Limited’s operation is geared towards worldclass customer satisfaction. Customer focus pervades all levels of the organization. Customer service activity is a cross-departmental and cross-functional initiative where key decision makers deal face-to-face with customers when necessary. The company believes that building strong relationships with clients is key to success

Document Security

according to application types (such as Invoices, Human Resources, Medical Records, Contracts, etc.) Within the applications they are organized into logical files and file sections.

Each of the levels can have access rights applied to them; this ensures that the only authorized users have access to these documents. These Document Management systems also allow you to organize users into groups and to provide different functionality rights to these groups. As an example one group might be able to access certain documents and to print and/or make changes to them, while another group might have more restrictive rights and only be able to see a subset of those same records and only have right to view them.

Electronic Document Security Going by current trends, a good number of organizations are moving their business processes online, and as a result of this, it is essential to protect the privacy and confidentiality of document and information used during these processes while providing integrity and authenticity. Many information security solutions attempt to protect electronic documents only at their storage location or during transmission. However, these solutions do not provide protection for the entire lifecycle of an electronic document. When the document reaches the recipient, the protection is lost, and the document can be intentionally or unintentionally forwarded to and viewed by unauthorized recipients.

A significantly more effective solution is to protect a document by assigning security parameters that travel with it. For more effective protection of an electronic document, through its lifecycle, the following conditions

must be met: Confidentiality – How do you determine who should have access to the document?

Integrity – How do you determine if the document has been altered?

Authenticity - How do you determine where the document emanated from?

Authorization – How do you determine what level of permissions the users have for working with the documents?

Accountability – How do you determine what user has done with the document?

Non-repudiation – How possible is it for the signatory to deny signing the document?

The two major security techniques that can be used to establish these document security principles are digital signatures and document control. Organizations should integrate document security into their current business processes and enterprise infrastructure so as to support a wide range of simple and complex processes, protecting electronic documents inside and outside the network, online and offline to provide persistent, end-to-end protection throughout the document’s lifecycle (physical or electronic).

Dr. Oyedokun Ayodeji Oyewole is the Chairman – BOD, Institute of Information Management (IIM) Africa and President of Records and Information Management Awareness Foundation (RIMA Foundation), a Not-for-profit NGO.

and it takes pride in its ability to understand clients’ needs and exceed their expectations.

The company’s reliable client service team and sound field communications equipment give instant access to the information and solutions needed.

facilities management companies to maintain their built environment; and their maintenance personnel will only act as inspectors/supervisor to ensure best practices in every task carried out. Also, the government should encourage qualified indigenous FM companies to build capacity; advising young Nigerian Entrepreneurs to remember that it is never too late to start where you are and great things are built from small things.

At this time, the government need to act differently to help the economy and particularly the FM industry in Nigeria while engaging

Customer Experience

By Bruce C Mitchell

How to Respond to an Angry Customer

ealing with an angry customer is one of the biggest D challenges you can face in your

empathetic; try to understand what the real issue is. Ask questions regarding the situation business, especially today, with and try to summarize the probthe widespread use of social lem. Once you reach agreemedia allowing an unhappy ment on exactly what the issue customer instant access to a is, shift into resolution mode. huge audience, possibly causTry to offer a concession to the ing irreparable damage to customer that will satisfy them. your reputation. One negative If they are upset about the qualreview results in the loss of ity of an item, offer a refund. If thousands of dollars in revthey think shipping took too enue. Every complaint must be long, offer a refund of the shipdealt with quickly and effecping charges. If the item is not tively to mitigate the damages. exactly as they expected, but You must have a strategy to they want to keep it, offer them deal with a negative interaca partial refund. Find a middle tion in a way that will lead to a ground that both of you can positive resolution. Never live with. Reach a mutual ignore the situation. If a cusunderstanding of how the tomer takes a jab at you on issue will be resolved. Thank social media; gives you a nega- them for working with you and tive review or sends an angry apologize for their inconvenemail, you must deal with it ience. Immediately take action head-on. You need to protect to implement the resolution your reputation. Be proactive.

Respond on the same site that was used to make the complaint, i.e., if the posting was on Facebook it has to be responded to on Facebook because this will show that community that you have not ignored the complaint.

Have a drafted response prepared for each and then modify it to fit the specific situation.

Here is an example: Thank you for your comment. We at ACME Products value customer feedback and continually try to improve our processes. We take your complaint seriously and will do whatever we can to make it right. Please contact us so we can discuss a resolution.

Handling an angry customer on the phone requires a different approach. The client may be yelling or using foul language but you need to remain calm and respectful. Let them vent. Be apologetic; many times all they want is for you to understand and say you are sorry for their trouble. Be

“Action is the foundational key to all success”. -

PABLO PICASSO

you agreed to. This shows sincerity.

Planning and preparation are key. Be sure all customer issues are escalated to management or to a special department that is designated to deal with angry customers. Train your staff and have procedures in place that ensure the proper approach.

Proper handling and resolution of customer complaints is important in building good customer relations and keeping your business going strong. Happy customers will know you are fair and trustworthy, which will make them want to continue doing business with you and recommend you to their friends.

Everyone wins!

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

26 ARTS

Film How Akpabio’s grant splits moviedom

By Shaibu Husseini HE 50 million naira that the Akwa Ibom State T Governor Godswill Akpabio pledged during the Presidential dinner to commemorate 20 years of Nollywood held early in March 2013, has been redeemed. The Governor redeemed the pledge when a delegation of Nollywood practitioners paid him a courtesy call at government house, Uyo recently. Governor Akpabio had indicated at the ceremony hosted by President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and held at the State House Marina, Lagos that the funds be used to endow prizes and award of excellence in honour of President Jonathan. It will be recalled that it was at the dinner that the President announced the provision of a 3 billion naira grant for the Nollywood industry under a scheme dubbed Project Act Nollywood. The grant, President Jonathan stated would be managed by the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Federal Ministry of Culture and it will be used specifically for capacity building, and to fund distribution as well as to produce a best script.

Already, the Federal Ministry of Finance and that of Culture and Tourism have released guidelines for accessing the capacity building component of the fund. The fund managers have earmarked 300 million for that purpose.

The distribution and production component of the intervention fund is expected to gulp what is remaining of the 3 billion-naira grant.

However, the donation by Governor Akpabio is not for capacity building neither is it for funding of distribution or production of best script.

Governor Akpabio who symbolically presented the 50 million-naira cheque to a delegation of Nollywood led by the President of Association of Movie Producers (AMP) Zik Zulu Okafor reiterated that he wants the money to be used to endow prizes in the area of filmmaking in honour of the President, who he repeatedly referred to ‘as my boss’ at the Uyo presentation ceremony.

President of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) Andy Amenechi, who was at the presentation ceremony alongside top actress Stephanie Linus Idahosa and Secretary of the Actors Guild of Nigeria Abubakar Yakubu, said the money would be used for the purpose given.

“It is to endow awards in the name of President Jonathan and that is exactly what it is going to be used for. We are going to identify awards and festival and endow prizes of excellence in the name of President Goodluck Jonathan’’ Amenechi stated.

But Amenechi and Okafor and other leaders of guilds and associations in Nollywood have more explanation to make. The 50 million naira is already causing ripples in the industry. It is likely to break Nollywood into factions depending on how the fund is managed. Already, some practitioners have developed ideas on what they want the money to be used for. Some have even questioned why a donation meant for the industry will be handed over to the Association of Movie Producers (AMP) for disbursement when the AMP does not represent the interest of all the guilds and associations in the industry. They argued that the money would have been best handed over to the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC) so that the NFC as the industry regulators can manage the funds on behalf of the industry in the absence of an umbrella body for the industry. But that is as far as that argument can go as the promoters seem in the minority.

Nevertheless, there are some practitioners who want the money ploughed into the Project Act Nollywood grant. Promoters of this idea say it will better managed under the scheme.

“It should be used to swell the production component of the Presidential intervention fund,’’ they argued.

Yet there are others, who are though in the minority, who want the funds shared equally amongst ‘recognized guilds and associations in Nollywood’. The argued that some of the guilds need the fund to set up structures that will help the growth of the industry. However, the likely difficulty that will arise with this suggestion is how to determine guilds and associations that are recognized. There are so many of them in Nollywood. At the last count, there are over 55 guilds and association in Nollywood. Akpabio’s fund will not go round them even at half a million per guild.

Also, at an informal gathering of practitioners in Surulere, last week, someone, a member of one of the many contraptions in Nollywood

AMP President, Zik Zulu Okafor (second left) receiving the N50 Million cheque from Akwa Ibom State Governor, Godswill Akpabio (right) during a visit to the governor in Uyo lion support promised the Nigerian film industry by President Goodluck Jonathan has formally commenced (this July) with the roll out of a N300 million capacity building fund out of the 3 billion naira earmarked for the entire Project Act Nollywood initiative.

Government also stated that the capacity fund whose application opened this July, UT the Association of Nollywood Core was broken down into two component of Producers (ANCOP) think that those who col150 million naira each, with the first compolected the fund from Governor Akpabio need to nent being a training dedicated to training convene an all practitioners meeting so that and skills acquisition for Nollywood issues concerning the fund can be clarified.

Practitioners in all competencies along the ANCOP in a statement signed by its President entire value chain of Nigeria’s movie indusAlex Enyegho called on the team that received try and the second component being the the donation on behalf the industry not to deviCapacity Development Fund, which will take ate from the purpose the money was given. the form of grants to existing NigerianAccording to ANCOP President Alex Enyegho, owned private institutes that offer training “I congratulate the team for collecting this courses, programs, and technical certificamoney on behalf of the industry; we have our tion in the movie industry. The capacity own idea concerning this goodwill to building fund is also to be used to upgrade Nollywood by the governor. We also believe existing facilities, procure equipment and that he gave the money to the industry for a spedevelop internal capacity to offer a set of cific purpose. We therefore must not deviate courses/training programs, which address from this.” key skills gap. However The ANCOP Boss and to benefit from the Vice President of the a p a c i t y get a land in the outskirt of Lagos, CDevelopment Federation of Fund, International Film interested institutes which will be developed into an Producers canvassed the prove to have office complex that will be allocat- must convening of a meeting, been ‘’registered from in the absence of Motion ed to guilds and associations and before 1st January 2013 Picture Council of and be competent will ultimately be named after Nigeria (MOPICON), of all enough to train association and guild according to global President Goodluck Jonathan presidents in Nollywood best practices (includso as to halt the very daning for organizations gerous discussions currentpartnering with training ly going on in the industry concerning this programs from reputable international film money. ‘’Such meeting must carry along everyinstitutions) on a sustainable basis’’. body, particularly the associations and guilds Speaking on the development, the listed in the current public document of the Coordinating Minister said that the estabNigeria Film Corporation (NFC) and the even lishment of the fund underscores governmore comprehensive list used by the ‘Project ment’s commitment to supporting Act Nollywood’ team of the Federal Ministry of Nollywood in recognition of the film indusFinance during a recent Town Hall Meeting’’ try’s contributions to the economy and proEyengho said. jecting the country. The Finance Minister If the donation by Akpabio generated that stressed that Project Act Nollywood is not for level of discussion and ripples, the decision by sharing to practitioners but that the overall government to release 300 million out of the 3 objective is to support the industry in a susbillion naira presidential intervention fund tainable way that practitioners can leverage also elicited similar response. In fact a section of on to improve their capacity and output in Nollywood has threatened that they will have key areas. nothing to do with the funds if government The Minister also confirmed that the fund does not do their bidding, one of which is to diswould be open for applications as from July burse the funds through guilds and association 2013 to December 2013. Details of the guideand to make membership of the ‘recognized lines for accessing the capacity fund indicate industry guilds and associations’ a condition that ‘’applicants must be Nigerians’’ and that for accessing the loan. ‘’applicants must be industry practitioners’’.

Government had in a statement signed by the The guidelines also indicate that memberSpecial Adviser to the Coordinating Minister of ship of an industry Association or Guild is the Economy and Minister of Finance Mr. Paul encouraged but is ‘’not a pre-requisite to meet application requirements’’. Also coursNwabuikwu indicated that action on the N3 bil-

called the ‘Association of active motion picture practitioners’ even suggested that the money be used to “get a land in the outskirt of Lagos, which will be developed into an office complex that will be allocated to guilds and associations and will ultimately be named after President Goodluck Jonathan.”

B

‘

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es commencing after December 31 are eligible provided the application is received before December 31 2013.

Days after this cheery news broke, some practitioners got together under the aegis of Nigerian Motion Picture Experts Group-a Nollywood Think Thank to deliberate on the state of the industry with particular emphasis on the 3 billion naira intervention fund. The summit hosted by Film & Video Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria held on June 18 and was attended by regulators and stakeholder from the length and breadth of the country. At the meeting were representatives of the Film & Video Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria, Yoruba Film & Video Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria, Motion Picture Practitioners Association of Nigeria, Association of Movie Producers, Association of Nigerian Theatre Practitioners, Screenwriters Guild of Nigeria, Creative Designers Guild of Nigeria, Coalition of Nollywood Guilds and Associations (CONGA), Nigerian Society of Cinematographers, Nigerian Society of Editors and Actors Guild of Nigeria. The Summit presided over by a presidium comprising some eminent practitioners like veteran filmmaker and Chairman Board of Trustee Association of Movie Producers AMP Chief Eddie Ugbomah (OON), Prince Ossy Affason who Chairs the Board of Trustee of the Film & Video Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria, and Chair of CONGA Bond Emeruwa, rejected the guidelines released on accessing the three hundred million naira capacity building tranche of the N3b Presidential Intervention fund. Besides, the summiteers including President Creative Designers Guild of Nigeria Ms Iyen Agbonifo, President Screenwriters Guild of Nigeria Mr Chike Bryan and Chairman Film & Video Producers and Marketers Association of Nigeria Mr. Norbert Ajaegbu consider the N3b intervention fund grossly inadequate to reposition the industry.

The summiteers also have issues with the appointment of members of the ministerial committee. They described the composition of the ministerial committee as ‘’undemocratic and does not reflect the wishes and aspirations of the industry’. Also they maintained that the release of the guidelines for accessing the capacity building fund has ‘no input from the industry and its elected leaders contrary to the agreement reached with the Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister for Finance Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.”

Also, the summiteers described the guidelines so far released as unprofessional and inconsistent with global best practice. ‘’It is an abnormality for Assessors to be anonymous as it denies applicants the opportunity to assess their assessors and where necessary challenge the decision of the board’’.

THE GUArDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

ArTS

27

Tourism In Cross River, legal backing to lift heritage tourism underway

By Florence Utor

S Cross river State consolidates on A building a full-fledged and all-yearround tourist destination, the state has turned its attention to the proper preservation and promotion of all its heritage sites through legislation, which is expected to bring heritage tourism within the existing framework and structure of the state tourism market.

Already, the state executive council has approved a bill to provide for the preservation of the state heritage for the consideration of the State House of Assembly through the office of the Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice.

Some of the provisions of the 2013 Heritage bill include the preservation of buildings, objects, cultural materials (tangible and intangible) and structures considered to be of historical, and cultural as well as economic significance to the people of the state and utilize their potential for tourism development.

To ensure proper preservation, management and promotion of these heritage sites and cultural icons, the bill will also provide for the establishment of a body of trustees made up of people with the requisite professional skill and experience who will take custody of these properties to restore and preserve them and manage their utilization and maintenance. The trustees will be expected to bring to bear their vast wealth of experience and skill on the proper identification, demarcation, profiling and preservation of these sites and items.

When the bill is passed into law, it would open a new vista for tourists to the state to experience a most cherished aspect of tourism assets, which over the years, have suffered neglect. The Special Adviser to the State Governor on Tourism Development, mr. Wilfred Usani sees this new move as a welcome development and a step in the right direction, as it is aimed at not only properly documenting and giving legal status to the various historical, heritage and cultural assets scattered across the state but also boosting and enriching its tourism offerings.

It will be recalled that since turning its attention to tourism as a vehicle for economic development, the state has not relented in the development and building

of its tourism products and facilities as well as creating the enabling environment through legislations and policy direction for the thriving of tourism through the active Private and Public Partnership model.

One of the prime products of the state is the Calabar Festival, a month long yearly festival that is a blend of cultural and modern entertainment climaxing in the Carnival Calabar. It has, since its first edition, opened the state to the tourism world and continued to attract the attention of people from across the world.

Among its developed and cherished tourism infrastructure is the Tinapa Business resort, which is an emporium of some sort with various facilities that cater for prime time leisure and business tourists.

Wilfred Usani

Odun Oranmiyan 2013 ... loud in Ife rANmIYAN was one of the O seven sons of Okanbi, the only child of Oduduwa and reigned as the 6th OONI OF IFE. He was famed as a strong enigmatic leader who led his people into a path of greatness that lasted several centuries, leaving a heritage that last till today. His Cenotaph popularly known as OPA OrANmIYAN is in Ile Ife and is a Tourist destination.

After several wars and conquests, and establishing the Benin and Oyo kingdoms he joined his ancestors . This great legend that has continued to shape the destiny of a race deserves to be celebrated as a unifying force for the Yoruba people. Oranmiyan is a unique name

that has occupied a column of Yoruba history as a warrior, conqueror and legend.

An organization committed to the development of Tourism in Nigeria, FLABSY Travels & Tours has received the approval of the Ooni of Ife, Alaiyeluwa Oba Okunade Sijuwade to organize a festival which would bring all Ife indigenes and the entire Yorubas at home and in diaspora like Brazil, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, Cuba United States of America etc. together and use the platform of the festival to identify and bring to the fore, a unique and binding tradition for the Yoruba people, utilise the platform to propagate Oranmiyan as a

central figure in Yorubaland and explore all creative means to ensure that through the festival celebrations, Oranmiyan Staff becomes a Tourist haven, ensure that the festival is enlisted in the calendar of the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation and the World Tourism Calendar, achieve a top-of-the-mind festival event for Odun Oranmiyan and create awareness for Ife indigenes at home and abroad use the platform to drive investment opportunity to Ile-Ife. The festival event would be devoid of Political affiliations or leanings such that every Yoruba man would be eager to attend yearly and attract corporate organizations that may

use the festival opportunity to showcase their brands as well as compete for sponshorship of the festival to achieve optimum mileage and revenue generation.

The significance of Odun Oranmiyan cannot be over-emphasized, as it is the festival that will unites the people together. It is also a celebration of a deity and warrior of the Yoruba. Therefore, FLABSY Travels & Tours is determined to celebrate Odun Oranmiyan 2013 in August 2013 so well that people will want to be associated with the annual festival not just as Ife people but as citizens of Osun and Yoruba in general.

Oranmiyan is arguably the most deified of the whole Yoruba deities.

He was only the Yoruba King that was confirmed to have established other towns, like Oyo and Benin, became their King and later returned to his abode and also became a King before his eventual transformation as denoted in the Oranmiyan Cenotaph.

The Oranmiyan Cenotaph is a renowned tourist centre that has drawn million of visitors to Ile-Ife and has continued to do same. The name has appeared in many cultural and historical books. Oranmiyan is a religion to many in Yoruba land as it is being worshiped while they visit the Cenotaph to pay homage and reverence to the deity.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

28 ARTS

Literature Champion for Women... New feather on Jonathan’s cap

By Anote Ajeluorou VEN in the face of the famed 1995 Beijing E Women Conference where governments around the World pledged greater affirmative

action to ensure that women assume greater leadership roles, nothing in Nigeria’s political firmament in the years ahead suggested a shift in attitude until recently.

Though a handful of Nigerian women have hitherto landed some top leadership positions in government, the number and quality of job portfolios pale into insignificance when placed side by side with the prevailing situation under the watch of President Goodluck Jonathan.

The roll call includes 13 female ministers holding very key positions ranging from finance, petroleum, aviation, education, environment, defence and information technology amongst others. The list also includes equal number of Senior Advisers, Heads of Government Agencies and Departments etc.

Today, a quiet but sustained revolution in women participation in national decision making processes has been initiated by President Jonathan with the deployment into critical positions of Nigerian women that have overtime displayed enduring leadership characters.

The government in fulfillment of its campaign pledge in 2011 to increase the number of women involved in the top echelon of national leadership has overtime tapped into the innate power, talents and moral virtues of women such as ministers of finance, Ngozi OkonjoIweala, petroleum resources, Diezani AlisonMadueke, Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Aloma Mariam Mukhtar and aviation, Stella Odua amongst so many other to push forward implementation of its policies.

It is in recognition of this gesture by President Jonathan that his female acolytes spearheaded

by Alison-Madueke launched a book entitled, “Champion For Women,” aptly to celebrate him.

The 313-page book chronicles the efforts as well as the success of President Jonathan to change the balance of power, narrow extant gender gap and set aside deep-seated socio-political prejudices against the aspirations of women in Nigeria.

In her forward on page seven of the book, Alison-Madueke who is a beneficiary of Jonathan’s gender-sensitive government, stated that the president’s process of change which

he had begun in 2010 moved into a higher gear in 2011 with 30 percent of his political appointments going to Nigerian women for the first time.

“I am honoured and proud to have been chosen as one of the 13 women in President Jonathan’s cabinet, commissioning this book is an opportunity for me not to only express my sincere thanks to our president but also to show, concisely, his robust and comprehensive articulation of the gender issue, in his historic and groundbreaking appointments of such a high proportion of women to his cabinet.

“This is indeed not just historic, but something special in the history of Nigeria. Half the world’s population is female, but the international average of women in elected office is only around 20 percent. Look at the top officeholders, and the figure is lower still; in Nigeria, however, one in three members of the federal executive cabinet is a woman. It is a fact of which all Nigerians, male and female, can be justly proud. And this is just not a job for the girls, there is much more here than just making up the numbers,” Alison-Madueke said.

In the preface to the book, Vice President Namadi Sambo who lent credence to the claims of AlisonMadueke, said of President Jonathan: “His willingness to take the risk and put women in charge of some of the most critical sectors of the economy demonstrates one of his outstanding qualitiesbravery. He had the courage of his convictions and, more than that, a healthy respect for the ability of the Nigeria woman and was determined to give her, her due.”

The book contains five chapters; Chapter one which is titled “Leading A Nation, Advancing Its Women”, traces the path of President Jonathan to power and the challenges of the new office

as well as his calm strength in addressing some of Nigeria’s issues such as corrupt practices, infrastructure and security challenges amongst others.

It also detailed the president’s faith in the power of women as agents of change as he claimed in his words: “My admiration for the ability of women to thrive in a challenging and adverse environment is drawn directly from watching my mother’s strength when I was growing up...This contributed to my decision to entrust the women in my government with the responsibilities of high office.”

Also in chapter one are worthy efforts of the government in enhancing the status of Nigerian women in the country. Such heartwarming developments like that of Mrs. Itunu Hotonu who became the first woman to be appointed a Rear Admiral in the Nigerian Navy as well as the first female military pilot in the Nigerian Airforce, Blessing Liman are contained in chapter one.

Chapter two of the book is devoted to the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan who is dubbed, the first lady who sets the pace and seeks greater empowerment of women while chapter three highlights Jonathan’s vision for women with a caption; why politics needs women.

The chapter enumerated the importance of female voters, winning over female voters, attending to the needs of women, reaching out to Nigeria’s women and the future of women in politics. The leadership styles of Nigerian women leaders were also considered in the chapter.

In chapter four, President Jonathan’s leading women, their portfolios, activities, vision and biographical details were detailed and it ran through from Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar who is the first ever female Chief Justice of the Federation to Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the coordinating minister for the economy and minister of finance, down to Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke,

Symphony of Becoming… Iquo Eke’s poetic outpouring

By Kenechukwu Ezeonyejiaku NDOUBTEDLY, it was a gatherU ing of intellectuals and bigwigs in the poetry genre and a display of scintillating performances, as Iquo Eke launched her first collection of poems, Symphony of Becoming. It’s a collection aptly summed up by fellow writer, Lola Shoneyin (author of The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives), as “Reflective lines that stir and delight. A triumphant debut…”

The book, with 49 poems, is classified into four sections, namely: Reflections, Of Nationhood, Heart Beats and Praise Songs.

“A poet to heed and relish”, so says another poet, Prof. Akachi Adimorah-Ezeigbo, who also describes the work as “poetry at its best – greatly charming and insightful,” Iquo has performed her poetry as far back as year 2000 on various platforms across Nigeria, usually to the accompani-

ment of folkloric renditions, embellished with traditional drums, flute and strings.

In his review titled, ‘Influence and Anxiety in Iquo Eke’s Symphony of Becoming’, Toni Kan (author of Nights of Creaking Beds) said, “Every young writer, except for a very few, labours under a cloud as he sets out on a literary career. This cloud is one of anxiety and influence.”

Citing a respected academic and critic, Harold Bloom, who said that “the poet in a poet is inspired to write by reading another poet’s poetry and will tend to produce a work that is derivative of existing poetry, and therefore, weak. Because poets must forge an original poetic vision in order to guarantee their survival into posterity, the influence of

precursor poets inspires a sense of anxiety in living poets”. Kan said “the influence is palpable in the 49 poems that make up Iquo Eke’s debut collection of poems”.

According to him, “her influences range from poets like Lola Shoneyin, in the unabashed sassiness of some of the poems to Angela Nwosu in her feminist and very socially conscious concerns to a male poet.”

Breaking down the four sections of the book, Toni said that a sense of multiplicity of voice s , described as “the interplay of the author’s voice, the character’s voice and the narrator’s

voice are found there”.

“There is the sedate poet of the first section;” he said, aptly titled Reflections. “There is the socially conscious and patriotic poet in the second section, Of Nationhood. Then, we meet the sassy, saucy and sensual poet of the third section, Heartbeat, before we encounter the assertive poet of the final segment, Praise Songs.”

Continuing Kan said, “The multiplicity of voices, the constant switches from one persona to another help provide the collection with depth and thematic range. These are not poems written to a set agenda. These are poems that address many issues and which reflect an urgent engagement with diverse topics and themes.

“The poems are thus at once, public and private testaments, reflections and assertions, wishes and declarative statements.”

Nigeria’s first female minister of petroleum resources.

Alison-Madueke in this chapter, talked of her strong advocate for local content and the empowerment of Nigerians in the oil and gas industry, as well as her current push through the National Assembly to revamp operations in the petroleum sector through the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

Also in the chapter pioneer minister of communication technology, Mrs. Omobola Johnson, minister of aviation, Stella Odua, environment, Mrs. Hadiza Ibrahim Mailafa as well as water resources, Mrs. Sarah Reng Ochekpe amongst others laid out their plans for their respective sectors.

Other prominent women in Jonathan’s administration such as Prof. Joy Ogwu who is the country’s ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations (UN), Amina Mohammed, special adviser to UN Secretary General on post-2015 development planning, Hajia Salamatu Hussaini Suleiman, ECOWAS commissioner for political affairs, peace and security, Dr. Aisha Laraba Abdullahi, Nigeria’s commissioner for political affairs in the African Union and other female ambassadors and high commissioners are all profiled in chapter five with the title, a president championing women in diplomacy.

In summary, the book celebrates the achievements of President Jonathan’s with support gleaned from the driving force of the women in his government.

While a balanced account of the women in government with a wealth of information has been provided by the authors in the book, it however does not suggest that Nigerian women have reached their Eldorado in the lingering clamor for gender equality.

A well packaged compendium of Jonathan’s faith in the womenfolk, the book has relevant, aesthetics and colourful pictures, maps and charts to illustrate extant interactions which point to one fact; that Nigerian women are seizing the stage and momentum to collectively make the changes needed in our society.

Politricks in Africa

By Habib Akewusola I will strangulate malaria Within four weeks Every corrupt king must Become a convict, The general hospitals would Be equipped with club kits, Education will automatically Become free.

Rhythm of the motionless Spiting impossible deeds With a mind set of ‘No regrets’ Africa, My destiny has become artificial The pretty once are sick The ugly took over as famous Officials.

Convoy of infinity wagon Exaggerated gown crowned with A diamond bangle, Hair coiled with shampoo Leather shoes, of the best cattle Scent transported from the Arabian Temples.

You preach of a sparking afternoon Brighter than this candle, Steady carbohydrate recently Restructured my statue, How do I believe you?

Consistent lies has destroyed Your truth.

Fellow masses am speaking to you With my vote let all critically Choose.

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THE GUaRDiaN, Friday, July 19, 2013

In association with

Events RIP THE RUNWAY (RTR)

SOMEWHEREELSE David Beckham to appear on new kids TV show aViD Beckham is reported to have been signed up to D appear in a regular spot on a Saturday morning children’s TV show on Sky. The recently retired footballer is

Comedy Meets Music

claimed by The Sun to have been recruited to appear on Game Changers - a new programme intended to encourage youngsters to take up sport. The show will be broadcast on Sky Sports and Freeview - and will be hosted by athlete Darren Campbell and presenter Di Dougherty.

Becks is expected to give a series of “masterclasses” when he makes his appearances on the show.

He said: “it’s an ambition of mine to inspire more young people to take part in sport. i’m excited to be one of a great group of athletes contributing to Game Changers and working with Sky, who have the passion to make it happen.”

Jessica Ennis-Hill will also be a regular, the paper claims. The show launches on 17 august.

Rita Ora to work with Justin Timberlake?

Date(s): 19/07/2013 Location: African Bar, Oriental Hotel, Lekki Lagos, Nigeria.

Promoter: TUDORS TUDORS - RIP THE RUNWAY Charity, a Fashion, Music Featuring Old Religion, BendDown Select, Sean Dodo, Ankara Freak, Niole, Vanity, Zeus, XnOs & more.

Prices: VIP= 5,000. Regular= 3,000. Runway= 8,000.

(WITH 5% DISCOUNT)

THE CRYSTAL SLIPPER

Date(s): 19/07/2013 Location: Aztec Arcum, Stadium Road, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

Promoter: The Switch Charity The Switch: Comedy Meets Music event empowers artists and comedians by creating a platform for local and upcoming artistes as well as comedians to showcase their talent & perform alongside bigger names in the entertainment industry.

More Info: www.afritickets.com

A Harvest with Soyinka

iTa Ora is allegedly hoping to land a collaboration with R Justin Timberlake after hitting it off with his wife Jessica Biel. Ora and Biel were both spotted watching JT in action at the Yahoo! Wireless Festival on Friday (July 12), with The Sun claiming that a track with the Tunnel Vision hitmaker could now be on the cards. a source told the newspaper: “Rita and Jessica really hit it off because they were both standing looking adoringly at Justin as he played his set.

“Jessica saw how enamoured Rita was with her husband’s performance and got chatting to her.”

They added: “She put a word in with Justin afterwards and now Rita and he could be working together very soon.”

Ora’s boss Jay-Z has already worked with JT on tracks Suit & Tie and Holy Grail, as well as teaming up for their Legends Of The Summer tour, so we are pretty sure he could also put in a good word for Rita.

Nas brings a taste of New York To Yahoo!

Wireless aS delivered a bass thumping, crowd busting N performance at this years’ Yahoo! Wireless Festival, taking the festival back to ’94 with his multi-platinum award-

Date(s): 20/07/2013 Location: Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos.

Promoter: Thespian Family Theatre The Thespian Family Theatre once again brings to you the magic of the theatre and this time its from its tales from yesteryears production.

This summer holiday, Thespian Family Theatre debuts this series with a popular story projected in a contemporary Nigerian setting with an intriguing twist.

Tickets: Children=2,000. Adult= 5,000. VIP= 10,000. (BUY 2 ADULT TICKETS & GET 1 FREE FOR A CHILD) GET TICKETS HERE: www.afritickets.com

Date(s): 21/07/2013, 28/07/2013 Location: Terra Kulture, Tiamiyu Savage Street, V/I, Lagos Promoter: M.IKAZ The Jero Plays are two short plays about Brother Jeroboam, the rather less than holy West African beach divine created by Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka. In this original comedy, the charlatan preacher, burdened by across known as the daughter of Eve uses Christian superstition for his own salvation.

Tickets: Regular- 3,500. VIP- 10,000. (WITH OVER 40% DISCOUNT) GET TICKETS HERE: www.afritickets.com

Bond & Bliss

A HUSBAND'S WIFE

winning rap classics, cranking up the crowd and triggering a wave of nodding heads and Hip-Hop grinding in the process. in spite of the sweltering temperatures going beyond 30 degrees, the crowd showed no signs of flagging when Nas, one of the forefathers’ of Hip-Hop, broke out on the main stage with his bass-heavy beats and distinctive rap sound. Bringing together the multi-cultural mix of both younger and older heads, the crowd were in the zone from the outset, vibing out in a mass of bodies, with everyone bouncing, jigging and head nodding in sync with the beat, while the more die hard fans spat out his lyrics and verses.

Repping his look, Nas wore understated black jeans and Tshirt, black and white trainers and what looked to be an impressive sized gold chain, mostly hidden from view under his shirt, as well as a watch and gold bracelets on both wrists.

Supported by his DJ and guitarist, Nas hopped around the stage, slapping the beat and feeding off the crowd and his musical arrangement while living out the moment.

Lindsay Lohan for Oprah interview iNDSaY Lohan has reportedly been signed up for an LOprah exclusive post-rehab interview with chat show queen Winfrey.

Date(s): 28/07/2013 Location: D'Signature Arena, 38 Lingu Crescent, Aminu Kano Crescent (By UBA) Wuse 2, Abuja Promoter: Jigga Entertainment Ltd This event is an exclusive evening of fun for couples. There will be lots of give-aways and goodies for outstanding couples. we will also have Entertainment, Games & Attractions, Wow your partner and the audience and Rock the dance floor.

Tickets: 7,000.

GET TICKETS HERE: www.afritickets.com

Date(s): 10/08/2013 Location: Terra Kulture, Tiamiyu Savage, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Promoter: M.IKAZ A Husbands wife is a drama filled story of a husband going through midlife crisis and his wife having to deal with it. How far will a man go to reclaim his youth The play takes the audience through the dramatic journey of this couple. It carries a strong message while it effortlessly exhibits witty humor.

Tickets: 3,500.

GET TICKETS HERE: www.afritickets.com

BUY TICKETS TO ALL YOUR FAVOURITE EVENTS ONLINE NOW!

For more information: www.afritickets.com

according to Entertainment Weekly, Oprah has landed an indepth discussion with the Mean Girls star, as well as an eightpart docu-series charting LiLo’s attempts to rebuild her career after all her recent legal troubles. a spokesperson for the Oprah Winfrey Network told the magazine: “OWN will air an exclusive interview with Oprah and Lindsay Lohan that will tape and air in august, and an eight-part documentary series with Lindsay for 2014.”

Lindsay is currently in courtordered rehab, and according to Digital Spy, has been advised to extend her stay for another 30 days.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

30 ARTS

History&Heritage

Sesu Tilley-Gyado, CEO Africa Heritage Group UR country Nigeria, has sometimes been O called the master of ‘brinkmanship’. This sobriquet intends to describe our resilience, and our uncanny, almost miraculous ability to lurch from chaos to disorder, without irrevocably sinking into the mire of complete tragedy. In other words, we are survivors. The indomitable Nigerian survival instinct is inherent and is arguably our shared national trait. It is seen everyday all over the country, in large and in little ways.

Survival necessitates that we must be very much rooted in the demands of the present.

For this reason, many might wonder why Africa Heritage Group and The Guardian Newspaper have set up this section dedicated to the promotion of History and Heritage. There are surely more pressing present concerns, why bother looking to the past?

History goes far beyond merely informing us of cold facts of intangible eras. There is a demonstrable danger in forgetting the past.

Countless wars, pogroms, and economic miscalculations have resulted in nations who failed to take stock of the free and all too often repeated lessons of the past. Nothing is new under the sun, as the old adage says.

The past is a tool of warning us of possible outcomes of certain patterns of thought and behavior.

There is also benefit in remembering the past. The study of history has a transformative power. It has led groups of victims and perpetrators towards change, reconciliation and the mutual assertion ‘Never Again.’Our history and heritage also provide a guiding meta-narrative.

Simply put, history tells us who we are, and where we are from. History can be viewed as a collection of both cautionary and inspirational case studies.

History is universal. It reminds us of our collective journeys, as collaborators, as foes, as heroes, as villains, as compatriots, and ultimately simply as people. The study of history strengthens human ties that many of us forgot we share. In the words of the poet John Donne “No man is an island….Any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind”.

History provides frameworks within which to plan for the future. It is the continuum between the past, present and the future. It reminds us too that we too will one day be ‘history’ and that our choices will impact the future. The respect of our heritage and history thus, makes us accountable for our actions today. As we read about the past, our consciences ask ‘What will they write of us in the future?’’ Will our own actions today lead people to say “ Never Again”’? Or will our own descendants remember us proudly

In association with

Ours Is Urgent when they sing the refrain from our national anthem ‘the labours of our heroes past shall never be in vain’?

As we examine our past, the choice of what future we create, is ours.

Over the next months, we will be discovering in depth various stories of Nigeria’s past, stories of people, of wars, of joy, of migrations, of cultures, of why-things-are-how-they-are.

Let us start at the very beginning, in the broad brush of Africa. Before there were countries drawn up by Europeans, before there were kingdoms established by rulers Let us look far, far back at a time when all people in the world cannot fully remember, and let us look at ourselves then. .Join me on a brief journey into the prehistory of modern Africa.

and 5000 BCE, Niger–Congo speakers domesticated the oil palm and raffia palm. Two seed plants, black-eyed peas and groundnuts were domesticated, followed by okra and kola nuts.

Since most of the plants grew in the forest, the Niger–Congo speakers invented polished stone axes for clearing forest.

Bantu speakers from Cameroon pushed westward to the savannahs of present-day Angola, displacing the native pygmies of Central Africa who were forced further into the forest.

They spread east into Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe in the 1st century CE. The second thrust from the Great Lakes was eastward, 2,000 years ago, expanding to the Indian Ocean coast, Kenya and Tanzania. The N 5000 BCE, the continent of Africa entered a eastern group eventually met the southern dry phase, and the climate of the Sahara remigrants from the Great Lakes in Malawi, gion gradually became drier. The population Zambia, and Zimbabwe. By the later first miltrekked out of the Sahara region in all direclennium CE, the expansion had reached the tions of Africa where they made permanent or Great Kei River of South Africa, displacing the semi-permanent settlements. A major climatic native Khoisan people. recession occurred, lessening the heavy and persistent rains in central and eastern Africa.

Since then, dry conditions have prevailed in N central Nigeria, around 1000 BCE, the Nok eastern Africa. culture developed on the Jos Plateau. It was a highly centralized community. The Nok OMO sapiens lived in southern and eastpeople produced miniature, lifelike represenern Africa at least 100,000 and possibly ETALWORKING in West Africa and Central tations in terracotta, including human heads, 150,000 years ago. Around 40,000 years ago, Africa may have been practiced as early as elephants, and other animals. By 500 BCE, expansion out of Africa launched the colothe 3rd millennium BCE. Iron smelting was de- they were smelting iron. By 200 CE, the Nok nization of the planet by modern human beveloped in the area long before it reached culture had vanished. Be this as it may, based ings. By 10,000 BCE, Homo sapiens had spread Egypt. Before 500 BCE, the Nok culture in the on stylistic similarities with the Nok terracotto all corners of the old world. In this sense, all Jos Plateau of Nigeria was already smelting tas, the bronze figurines of the Yoruba kinghuman beings are descended from these reiron. dom of Ife and the Bini kingdom of Benin are cent African ancestors. now believed to be continuations of the tradiThe first recorded history of early civilization tions of the earlier Nokite culture arose in Egypt, and later in Nubia and the HE Bantu expansion was a critical moveHorn of Africa. It has been suggested that ment of people in African history and the megaliths found at Nabta Playa in North East settling of the continent. People speaking Africa are examples of the world’s first known Bantu languages began to spread from archaeo-astronomical devices, predating Cameroon eastward to the Great Lakes region. Ghana Stonehenge by some 1,000 years.

Little is known about Africans pre 16,000 BC. There is some evidence of agriculture from 16,000 BCE onwards and metal work from about 4000 BCE.

Humans Out Of Africa

H

5000 BC: Desertification of Sahara

I

1000 BC: Nok Culture

I

3000 BC: Metal Work

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2000 BC: Bantu expansion

T

16,000 BC: Agriculture ROUND 16,000 BCE, from the Red Sea hills A to the northern Ethiopian Highlands, nuts, grasses and tubers were being collected for food. By 13,000 to 11,000 BCE, people also started making pottery. Fishing, using bone tipped harpoons, became a major activity in the numerous streams and lakes formed from the increased rains.

Most of southern Africa was occupied by pygmy peoples and Khoisan who engaged in hunting and gathering. Some of the oldest rock art was produced by them.

In West Africa, the wet phase ushered in expanding rainforest and wooded savannah from Senegal to Cameroon. Between 9000

4 CE -1900 CE: Early West African Empires

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ARTS 35

Guiding meta-narrative in history, heritage HE Ghana Empire may have been an estabT lished kingdom as early as the 4th century CE, founded among the Soninke by Dinge Cisse. Ghana was first mentioned by Arab geographer Al-Farazi in the late 8th century.

Ghana was inhabited by urban dwellers and rural farmers. The urban dwellers were the administrators of the empire, who were Muslims, and the Ghana (king), who practiced traditional religion. Ghana converted to Islam around 1050. The Ghana Empire grew wealthy by taxing the trans-Saharan trade. By the 11th century, Ghana was in decline.

turies, not much is known about Bornu. During the 18th century, it became a center of Islamic learning. By 1841, the last mai was deposed, bringing to an end the long-lived Sayfawa Dynasty.[123]

Sokoto Caliphate HE Fulani were migratory people. They moved from Mauritania and settled throughout the rest of West Africa. By the 14th century CE, they had converted to Islam. During the 16th century, they established themselves at Macina in southern Mali. During the 1670s, they declared jihads on non-Muslims.

Mali Several states were formed from these jihadist HE Mali Empire began in the 13th century wars. The most important of these states was CE, when a Mande (Mandingo) leader, Sun- the Sokoto Caliphate (Fulani Empire). diata (Lord Lion) of the Keita clan, defeated In the city of Gobir, Usman dan Fodio (1754– Soumaoro Kanté, king of the Sosso or south1817) accused the Hausa leadership of practicern Soninke, at the Battle of Kirina in c. 1235. ing an impure version of Islam and of being Conversion to Islam was a gradual process. morally corrupt. In 1804, he launched the FuThe court was staffed with literate Muslims as lani War as a jihad among a population that secretaries and accountants. Mali reached the was restless about high taxes and discontented peak of its power and extent in the 14th cenwith its leaders. Jihad fever swept northern tury, when Mansa Musa (1312–1337) made his fa- Nigeria, with strong support among both the mous hajj to Mecca with 500 slaves, each Fulani and the Hausa. Usman created an emholding a bar of gold worth 500 mitqals. pire that included parts of northern Nigeria, Mansa Musa’s hajj devalued gold in Mamluk Benin, and Cameroon, with Sokoto as its capiEgypt for a decade. The Mali Empire saw an ex- tal. The Sokoto Caliphate lasted until 1903 pansion of learning and literacy. when the British conquered northern Nigeria In 1285, Sakura, a freed slave, usurped the Benin/Edo Empire throne. This mansa drove the Tuareg out of XISTING as a monarchy from 1000 CE, by the Timbuktu and established it as a center of mid-15th century, the Benin Empire was enlearning and commerce. The book trade ingaged in political expansion and consolidacreased, and book copying became a very respectable and profitable profession. Timbuktu tion. Under Oba Ewuare (c. 1450–1480 CE), the state initiated 30 years of war with its neighand Djenné became important centers of bors. At his death, the Benin Empire extended learning within the Muslim world. to Dahomey in the west, to the Niger Delta in The empire declined when Tuareg harassed the east, along the West African coast, and to the northern border in order to retake Timthe Yoruba towns in the north. buktu and Fulani eroded Mali’s authority in The Oba ruled with the advice from the the west by establishing the independent Imauzama, a council consisting of chiefs of powermate of Futa Toro. ful families and town chiefs of different guilds.

Kanem-Borno Empire After the 16th century, Benin mainly exported ROUND the 9th century CE, the central Su- pepper, ivory, gum, and cotton cloth to the danic Empire of Kanem, with its capital at Portuguese and Dutch who resold it to other Njimi, was founded by the Kanuri-speaking African societies on the coast. In 1897, the nomads. Kanem arose by engaging in the British sacked the city during the Punitive Extrans-Saharan trade. It exchanged slaves cappedition, exiling Oba Ovonramwen to Calabar tured by raiding the south for horses from and ending the Benin Empire.

North Africa, which in turn aided in the acquisition of slaves. By the late 11th century, the Is- Akan Kingdoms and emergence of Asante Emlamic Sayfawa (Saifawa) dynasty was founded pire

by Humai (Hummay) ibn Salamna. The Sayfawa Dynasty ruled for 771 years, making it one of the longest-lasting dynasties in human history.

The empire controlled all of the Sahel from the borders of Darfur (Sudan) in the east to Hausaland (Nigeria) to the west. Friendly relationship was established with the Ottoman Empire (Modern Turkey) via Tripoli. The Mai exchanged gifts with the Ottoman sultan. The Sayfawa Dynasty were the first monarchs south of the Sahara to import firearms. Islam became firmly entrenched in the empire. Pilgrimages to Mecca were common; Cairo had hostels set aside specifically for pilgrims from Kanem.

Around 1400, the Sayfawa Dynasty moved its capital to Bornu, a tributary state southwest of Lake Chad with a new capital Birni Ngarzagamu. During the 17th and 18th cen-

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Y the 12th century, the Akan Kingdom of B Bonoman(Modern Ghana)was established. It was Bonoman and other Akan kingdoms like Denkyira, Akyem, Akwamu which were the predecessors to what became the all-powerful Empire of Ashanti. The state’s revenue was mainly derived from trading in during the 16th century, Ashante society experienced sudden changes, including population growth because of cultivation of New World plants such as cassava and maize and an increase in the gold trade between the coast and the north.

By the 17th century, Osei Kofi Tutu I (c. 1695– 1717), with help of Okomfo Anokye, unified what became the Ashante into a confederation with the Golden Stool as a symbol of their unity and spirit.. The Ashante Empire included all of present-day Ghana and large parts of Côte d’Ivoire. For most of the 19th century, the Ashante Empire remained powerful. It was later destroyed in 1900 by British superior weaponry and organization following the four Anglo-Ashanti wars.

Fon nation.

By the 18th century, the Yoruba city-states formed a loose confederation, with the Oni of Ife as the head and Ife as the capital. As time went on, the individual city-states became more powerful with their obas assuming more powerful spiritual positions and diluting the authority of the Oni of Ife. Rivalry became intense among the city-states.

Oyo remained strong for two hundred years.

It became a protectorate of Great Britain in 1888, before further fragmenting into warring factions. The Oyo state ceased to exist as any sort of power in 1896.

Igbo Confederacy HE Kingdom of Nri rose in the 9th century CE, with the Eze Nri being its leader. It was a political entity composed of villages, and each village was autonomous and independent with its own territory and name, each recognized by its neighbors. The kingdom was a safe haven for all those who had been rejected in their communities and also a place where slaves were set free from their bondage. Nri Yoruba Oyo Empire expanded through converts gaining neighHE name ‘Yoruba’ comes from a Hausa boring communities’ allegiance, not by force. word to refer to the Oyo Empire (Modern Nigeria). The first Yoruba state was Ile-Ife, said Villages were democratic with all males and sometimes females a part of the decisionto have been founded around 1000 CE by a making process. Graves at Igbo-Ukwu (800 supernatural figure, the first oni Oduduwa.

CE) contained brass artifacts of local manufacOduduwa’s sons would be the founders of the different city-states of the Yoruba, and his ture and glass beads from Egypt or India, indaughters would become the mothers of the dicative of extraregional trade. It is notable for three archaeological sites, where excavations various Yoruba obas, or kings. Yoruba citystates were usually governed by an oba and a have found bronze artifacts from a highly sophisticated bronze metal-working culture iwarefa, a council of chiefs who advised the dating perhaps to the 9th or 10th century, oba.

The Oyo Empire rose in the 16th century. The centuries before other known bronzes of the Oyo state had been conquered in 1550 by the region. kingdom of Nupe, which was in possession of cavalry, an important tactical advantage. The READERS VOICES alafin (king) of Oyo was sent into exile. After What heritage and history stories would returning, Alafin Orompoto (c. 1560–1580) built up an army based on heavily armed cav- you like to read? alry and long-service troops. This made them Would you like to contribute your own piece invincible in combat on the northern grassof History ? lands and in the thinly wooded forests. By the Please email: end of the 16th century, Oyo had added the africaheritagegroup@gmail.com to appear western region of the Niger to the hills of in our section !

Togo, the Yoruba of Ketu, Dahomey, and the

T

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Exciting Open Weekend for DStv subscribers FRICA’S leading pay TV brand A has confirmed plans for an entertaining OPEN WEEKEND, during which DStv Access, Family, Compact and Compact Plus subscribers will be able to view selected DStv Premium channels, at no extra cost.

Running from Friday, July 19 at 3p.m. until Monday, July 22 at 9p.m., the DStv Open Weekend is the latest development in the DStv Rewards campaign, which aims to reward subscribers for their loyalty in different ways. Earlier this year, thanks to DStv Rewards, lucky subscribers from different parts of the continent walked away with wonderful cash prizes.

The channels that will be part of the offer include some of the biggest, most popular television brands in the world - AfricaMagic

Entertainment, Animal Planet, BBC Knowledge, Big Brother The Chase (Channels 197 and 198), Cbeebies, Comedy Central, Crime and Investigation, Discovery, Fox Entertainment, History Channel, MTV Base, Sky News, SuperSport channels 1 - 3 plus SuperSport 5 and 6 along with Trace Sports Stars.

So if you’ve ever wondered about these channels, and exactly what viewing they offer, then wonder no more. Now is your chance to see them firsthand and experience some of the finest content available on television today. From worldclass sport to hit music, from blockbuster reality television to fascinating documentary, from sensational series to awesome African content, DStv Premium is the most comprehensive television product

available in Africa today.

Highlight programming during the offering includes action on the high octane SuperSport channels which, as usual, are jam-packed with great sporting activity including the glittering IAAF Diamond League, live from Monaco, at which some of the world’s best athletes will compete for honors! Also on the menu is the Concacaf Gold Cup, MotoGP motorcycle racing, the prestigious Open Championship where Tiger Woods is among the main attractions, plus the grueling Tour De France which is arguably the biggest event on the global cycling calendar. Meanwhile, English Premier League giants Manchester United travel Down Under to take on Australia’s finest, while the English and Australian cricket teams

contest the Ashes.

Plus check out the MTV Base Meets Michelle Obama special; three spectacular wildlife programs on Animal Planet (Wildest Africa, Big Five Challenge and Roaring with Pride); a marathon of hilarious Joey episodes on Comedy Central in which our favourite Friend returns in his own sitcom; and the Mandela Marathons on the History Channel in which comedian Eddie Izzard attempts to run an incredible 27 marathons in 27 consecutive days across South Africa in order to raise money for charity and to commemorate each of the 27 years of Nelson Mandela’s incarceration.

Meanwhile on AfricaMagic Entertainment, the flagship channel of the hugely popular AfricaMagic brand, look out for highlights such

as the celeb news focused StarGist, the riveting Making of a Mogul, a ‘must-watch’ Uche Jombo movie festival, plus an omnibus of the dramatic soapie Tinsel and of course, the sizzling new Big Brother Africa satire The Hot Room in which comedian Tumi Morake takes a funny look at Africa’s most famous house and its occupants!

Speaking of Big Brother Africa, if you haven’t seen the live 24/7 action on DStv channels 197 and 198, now is definitely your best chance to get caught up. During the DStv Open Weekend, Biggie has a surprise in store for the housemates as the two houses (Diamond and Ruby) finally merge, while the unexpected arrival of new faces is sure to create drama, drama and more drama!

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

36 ARTS

Showblast

...The buzz in town

Stories by Chuks Nwanne

MTNF-MUSON Scholars Concert…

An unforgettable evening of music splendor

By Harry Okoruwa

T was yet again that time of the year when Iexhibit graduands of the MUSON School of Music their mastery of musical instruments and vocal renditions; a time to share with the guests some of the skills they have acquired after undergoing a rigorous training in music for the past two years. As usual, the venue, Agip Recital Hall, MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, played host to classical music enthusiasts, friends and relatives of the graduating students, who turned up to cheer their own.

Now in its sixth edition, the concert has really developed over the years, growing in size and quality. This time, the hall was filled to capacity with guests; those who could not find seats in the hall had to settle for the aisles, as far as they could see action on stage. However, the foyer hosted some latecomers, who had the privilege of seeing the concert of the hall where they watched proceedings from a multimedia screen.

The stage came alive with a performance

by Segun Adeleke and Kpalap Bright; they did Carol and Fughetta, originally put together by a famous British composer, Gerald Finzi. Their mastery of clarinet and piano brought both Adeleke and Bright intermittent applause from the audience.

Next up was Adedaramola Olaore, a voice major with Song of the flea originally composed by Moussorgsky, a Russian Composer admired for his outstanding operas and colourful music inspired by the history and folklore of his homeland. The audience was spellbound not just by the vocals, but also by the near perfect rendition of the lyrics of the song.

Yet another splendid performance was that of Oladugba Michael, who did The Beautiful Show by J B Arban. Though on a trumpet, he came through to the audience like the great Saxophonist and Jazz Musician - Kenny G. His rendition got some members of the audience waving their hands side to side. The audience actually yearned for more, but like the old saying goes, all good things come to an end. He left the stage with a rapturous applause from the impressed audience.

Somehow, it appeared the graduating students were buoyed to give the audience an amazing evening; The Chariots of Fire rendition by Ernest Bisong and Irene Ozinegbe is another fantastic display. Who would forget in a hurry the huge and domineering size of Ozinegbe, whose first love for a musical instrument is equally the huge bass instrument? Bisong on a violin complemented Ozinegbe and made their rendition a delight to listen to.

However, the rendition of Omi by Elizabeth Olaitan was particularly dear to members of MTN Foundation present. The composer of the song, Kehinde Oretimehin, won the very first MTN Foundation prize for an outstanding student in 2008.

Olaitan herself also finished second runner-up in this year’s award ceremony. It was particularly pleasant for them to see their investment in Oretimehin has yielded fruits.

The highpoint of the musical concert was when the Chamber Orchestra, which comprises the graduating students and other students, performed two numbers in honour of MTN Nigeria and MTN Foundation.

Conducted by renowned voice instructor and conductor, Emeka Nwokedi, the first number was entitled Y’ello Song, while The second was Thank You MTN, a number composed by Mbazuigwe Chizurum. With smiles on their faces, the students expressed their heartfelt gratitude towards MTN Foundation for giving them the

Ernest Bisong and Irene Ozinegbe on stage

be subject to exam malpractices, but could be nurtured and developed. Students also need to have the passion to develop and share the talent,” Akpata said.

Recently, three products of the school graduated from the Department of Music, University of Dayton, Ohio, United States of America in flying colours. The trio of Olufemi Ogebule, Ezeuko Anuli and Paul Ogunboye, who had earlier obtained Diplomas in Music from MUSON School of Music, became the first Africans to graduate with honours from the Department of Music of the prestigious University. Another set of students benefitting from MTN Foundation’s sponsorship is expected to pass out next year. The MTN Foundation scholarship to the students covers their tuition, textbooks and other

A Standing Ovation for comedian Odogwu MUSON Students Orchestra in performance

wherewithal to attend the prestigious MUSON School of Music.

In his remarks, Former Chairman and current member of the Board of Trustees of the Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON), Chief Femi Williams noted that, “I don’t know how we could have managed without MTN Foundation in all these years.

Each year, the quality of the performance of the students has been an improvement on that of the preceding year; therefore the sky is yet your limit. MTN Foundation, you will agree with me that your investment in these young Nigerians have been money well spent. We are certain about this because we know the training which we have imparted together with your generous assistance,” he said.

The MTNF/MUSON project commenced in 2006, when the school approached the Foundation to assist some students of modest means, who might not be able to pay the fees needed to run the diploma program. According to Ambassador Hamzat Ahmadu, the Foundation surprised the institution by providing scholarships for all the students. To date, a total of 162 students have graduated from the music school in a period of six years and have gone ahead to prove their mettle in

their chosen areas of specialisation.

The MUSON School of Music was created in 1989 under the directorship of Mr. James Adekunle. The school offered parttime basic courses and training in the theory and practice of music. It gave practical lessons in Voice, Piano, Organ, Double Bass, Recorder and Trumpet and also conducted practical examinations twice a year. With the success it recorded and the high standard it maintained, it introduced a full-time Diploma course in 2006.

A former director of the MUSON School of Music Mrs. Marion Akpata observed that, “music demands all skills from fields like engineering, law and medicine, among others. It starts from being able to read textbooks with accurate and precise comprehension to Music reading with all its symbols and terms which must be mastered at the early stages of study and performing from memory with style and accuracy. Our trained musicians must understand the math behind musical rhythms and the science behind the production of a musical sound both instrumentally and vocally.”

In addition to all the training, “there must be a God given talent. That talent, according to her, cannot be taught nor can it

LL is now set for the launch of a new comA edy album entitled Standing Ovation by fast-rising comedian, Odogwu. Standing Ovation is the first official comedy album from the Business Administration graduate of University of Abuja. The studio made audio CD, which will be marketed by Alaba-based Markings Premiere Limited, parades the trio of comedians; Owen Gee, De Don and Mc Abbey.

An excited Sylvester Obialor, popularly known as Odogwu revealed that plans are afoot for the event, which holds on Sunday July 28 at the upscale SS Lounge, 7 Sapara Williams, off Idowu Martins, beside Mega Plaza, VI. The comedian, who cut his teeth many years ago at Gbenga Adeyinka show many years ago, has gradually evolved and has been described as one of the most original rib-cracker in the country.

Some of the special guests for the occasion include Mr. Seyi Akinwumi, Chairman Lagos Football Association as Chairman of the day, Stanley Okafor, CEO, Basot Oil & Gas and Integrated Marine as special guest and Ali Baba as Father of the day. Also expected is the duo of Gloria and Elvina Ibru. Celebrities such as Yaw, Owen Gee, Mc Abbey, De Don, Omo Baba, Koffi, Gbenga Adeyinka, Tee A, Bovi, Buchi, Akpororo, Emeka Smith, Shakara, Acapella and Elenu will also be in attendance.

THE GUArDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

ArTS 37

Nigeria’s P-Square, eight others battle for the Future Awards Africa Young Person of the Year

SHOWBLAST

HEAD of this year’s Future A Award, the Central Working Committee (CWC) of the organ-

P-square

So much fun in Nnewi, as stars groove in the rain NSPIrED by the tumultuous Iresort crowd at the Beverly Hills Nnewi, venue of the Star Music Trek, multi talented acts M.I, Timaya, Kcee, JMartins, Kas and 2012 Star Quest winners, Crystals put up a 5 star show that will linger in music lovers minds for a long time to come.

The show came on the heels of last weekend’s Star Music Trek concert, which took place at the prestigious recreation Club in Aba. Like the concert in Aba, excited music fans chose to also defy the pounding rain, eventually discarding umbrellas and sundry coverings in order to dance in the rain.

Could 2013 be any better for crowd favorite Kcee? Perhaps, but for now the Limpopo King continues blazing on every stage, hypnotizing fans with his deft dance moves and spontaneous lyrics. While the fans were extremely appreciative of his performance as he stormed the stage with a medley of his hits, they still remained unsatisfied spurring the artiste to jump off the stage and into the

crowd to sing with his fans.

Kas who was accompanied by his exotic dancers worked his way through the crowd thrilling fans for most of his 45 minute set choosing to only utilize the stage for his final hit song, Wind For Me. J Martins and his iconic live band have always been one the highlights at every Star Music Trek concert this year.

As usual, the artiste did not fail to pull in the crowd, while generously giving out large sums of money to up and coming talent who he invited to grace the stage with him and perform.

Timaya’s act was reminiscent of his barefooted performance during the 5th leg of the Star Music Trek concert in Aba. Once again, the Egberi Papa I of Bayelsa chose to do away with his shoes and deliver a 45-minute performance that kept fans dancing in the rain even after he had descended the stage.

Combining theatrics, a medley of hit tunes, one heightened rap battle and a world-class love song, M.I created a show- within –a- show,

Timaya

Kcee

making his last performance for Star Music Trek 2013 one of the most memorable performances the concert has witnessed since it began in Festac, Lagos in June. The rap star ensured that he left wonderful memories for fans that have been eagerly attending The Trek concerts since June 8, 2013.

Proud participants of his special show were his protégé, XBUSTA, who he discov-

ered in Owerri and Doris who performed a soulful duet with him on his hit song One Naira.

Meanwhile, the Star Music Trek concert will still storm Asaba, Abeokuta, Agege and Surulere. The 10-week-10-city tour will culminate in a grand finale, which will hold on August 10, 2013 at the National Stadium Surulere, Lagos.

Supermom Season 4 goes on air IGITAL Interactive Media D (DIM), has unveiled the broadcast schedule for the Supermom Season 4 reality TV show. Tagged Heart of Gold, the programme, which came on air last weekend on TV stations across the country, is expected to take the project to the next level.

Addressing a media briefing held recently in Lagos to announce the schedule, the producer of the show, Sola Fajobi is optimistic that the new season would impress viewers.

“That is not to dismiss the past editions; what we have actually done is looked at what we have done in time past and deliberately worked to improve on them despite the fact that they were of high quality. We worked on production input, the drama, cast and entries. People will definitely enjoy the show.”

The nationwide broadcast

of the show, which commenced on Saturday will show on AIT on Sunday between 4.30 and 5.30pm, Africa Magic will be between 7.30 and 8.30pm on Sunday, Kwara TV will show same Sunday between 8 to 9pm, ABS Akwa will show between 6 and 7pm on Sunday, MITV and CrBC will broadcast on Saturday between time belt of 8 to 9pm while V-channel will broadcast on Saturday and Sunday between 7 and 8pm.

The first and second editions of Supermom focused on mothers, whose stories their children told with emotive convictions. The stories bordered on the sacrifice, pain and sheer hardship that 20 women went through in raising their kids. Some of them had their men watching helplessly beside or behind them as the case may be while for some others the supposed tra-

ditional breadwinners were nowhere to be found. Their stories were told with short dramas, while the eventual winners were decided via votes from members of the public. The first set of winners won brand new houses, the first runner up, brand new cars while the second runner up smiled home with cash prizes.

However, the focuse shifted last year with mothers of celebrities showing up on the show. From KSB to Julius Agwu, mothers of 20 celebrities gave rare personal accounts of how the famous faces were raised. Some stories moved the audience to tears while others invoked pensive mood laced with mild laughter brought about by knowing assurance that the end justified the means.

Mrs. Gladys Asuquo (mother of Cohbams) won the first

prize and Mrs. Omobonike Anike (mother of Abass Akande PK1) and Mrs. Martinez Sanni (mother of Skales) were first and second runnerup respectively. They won N2million, N1million and N500,000 respectively. They shared the prize money with motherless babies’ homes of their choices.

This year the focus is on mothers, who raised children they did not give birth to.

Founders of motherless babies’ homes and various charitable organisations naturally take the front rolls but the stories of mothers with heart of gold did not start and end within the four walls of orphanages. Among the over 120 million Nigerians exist stories of women, who nurtured other people’s children without discrimination and the results of their efforts are there for all to see.

ising body has unveiled the list for the biggest youth award on the continent, the Young Person of the Year - The Africa Prize.

The Awards, which has been described by the World Bank as ‘The Nobel Prize for Young Africans’, is partnering with the African Union (AU) this year.

Commenting on the list, Head, Division for Human Capacity and Youth Development, African Union Commission, Dr. raymonde Agossou noted that, “as is the tradition, the nominees for Young Person of the Year – The Africa Prize, were drawn from a huge pool of talented trailblazers across Africa, who are making tremendous contributions around the globe. We are extremely proud of our honorees this year. Working with The Future Project to compile this impressive list was refreshing.”

The winner of this award will be announced at the awards ceremony to hold in August 2013; in addition, all the honourees will be given plaques.

In his remark, Managing Director of Sahara Energy, who is a member of the Audit Committee for The Future Awards, Tonye Cole said, “we are extremely pleased with the entire list presented by The Future Project this year. At every turn, these young African stars inspire us. We are also extremely grateful to the African Union Commission for partnering with us this year.”

The seventy-five (75) nominees for the other 15 categories of The Future Awards Africa 2013 were announced on the 10th of July, 2013.

This edition of The Future Awards is hosted in partnership with the youth office of the African Union Commission, based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and nominations for the biggest prize, Young Person of the Year is Africa-based. The honourees automatically qualify

as one of the 50 Young Africans Making a Difference on the Continent to be celebrated by the African Union at its 50th Anniversary Celebration in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in October 2013.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s sensational music twins, Peter and paul Okoye, otherwise known as P-Square have been nominated for the big prize. Signed to Akon’s Konvict Musik, Psquare signed a record distribution deal with Universal Music Group in 2012, the same year they released their hugely successful remix singles/videos featuring global music giants, Akon Chop My Money, and rick ross Beautiful Onyinye Remix.

The duo has just come off a massively successful African tour where they easily filled up stadia in Malawi, South Africa, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Equatorial Guinea, Congo Brazzaville, and more.

Also, another great Nigerian, 22-year Grace Ihejiamaizu is nominated in the category.

Named as one of Google’s 12 Brightest Young Minds in 2011, and by the US Government as ‘International Exchange Alumni Member of the Month for September 2012’, Ihejiamaizu is an entrepreneur and global change-maker. In 2010, she founded an after-school youth project, raising Young Productive Entrepreneurs (rYPE) Initiative; in 2012, she started a Social Enterprise company called iKapture Networks and founded the fast-growing online platform, opportunitydesk.org.

Previous Young Person of the Year winners include malaria scientist Ify Aniebo, award-winning writer Chimamanda Adichie, NASA scholar Tosin Otitoju, agriculture entrepreneur, Nnaemeka Ikegwuonu, and multiple award winning journalist, Idris Akinbanjo who beat out Jason Njoku, Linda Ikeji, Chinwe Njoku, Peter and Paul Okoje (Psquare), and D’banj to clinch the coveted award last

MAGiKAL Entertainment parts ways with Cocoice HE management T of MAGiKAL Entertainment has announced the decision to part ways with Nigerian rap act Mojisola Serah Sowole aka Cocolce, due to some irreconcilable differences.

In a statement signed by the CEO of the outfit, Biodun Caston-Dada, the decision to terminate the contract came into effect, “since the act has reneged on some of the terms of the initial agreement (both written and verbal) , has led

Cocoice

our organisation to incur so much loss running into millions of Naira.”

The artiste is alleged to have signed a recording contract deal with a record label without the knowledge on MAGiKal Entertainment, a move that was contrary to the ‘gentleman’s agreement’ both had on the issue of record label deals.

“For close to a year, MAGiKAL Entertainment invested heavily in her, promoted the rap artiste songs (If U Don’t Know, It’s Me and Rock Me) and actually shot one of the best music videos in Nigeria for her It’s Me, and built her into a household name. Her action was a complete betrayal of trust. We therefore wish to use this opportunity to thank all the members of the industry especially our colleagues in the media (DJs, OAPs, Online, Print and Electronic Press men) for all their support while this partnership lasted,” the CEO stated.

The label wishes her all the best in her future endeavour, “while we try to lick our wounds occasioned by this betrayal of trust. This press release became necessary to put the records straight and also because of various calls and enquiries we’ve been receiving in recent weeks,” he concluded.

38 ARTS

THE GUARDIAn, Friday, July 19, 2013

SHOWBLAST

Baby Mi Da…

Where the old meets the young ECEnTLY, the music indusR try was taken by storm when two artistes from the old and new generation took center stage to remix a classic song from the early 1960’s.

Coming together was the iconic Dr. Victor AbimbolaOlaiya and the energetic 2face Idibia, who recorded a song from Dr. Olaiya’s early collection Mofe Muyan, now christened Baby Mi Da. Produced by Spellz, the remixed song was directed by nollywood’s leading filmmaker Kunle Afolayan of The Figurine and Phone Swap fame.

Spinlet, who sponsored the making of the video, are excited about the collaboration, and hope there are more partnerships like this to come.

“We at Spinlet create platforms for veteran artists that give them access to new audiences,” said Mark Redguard, Chief Marketing Officer for Spinlet. “In addition, young

new audiences will have an opportunity to experience classic songs with a new modern twist.”

Meanwhile, Baby Mi Da can be downloaded from any mobile network at www. Spinlet.com; and Etisalat customers can text SUB to 7455 to download or stream 10 Spinlet songs from our Afrobeat, Highlife, Gospel and Pop Catalog for n75; 40 songs for n250, and over 100 songs for n500.

Premier Records ltd, the label under which Dr. Olaiya is signed, sees the collaboration as a way of uniting musicians from different generations; it is also provides a cultural background and timelessness.

“It is pertinent that we bring back to the music industry what made Dr. Victor Olaiya internationally known,” said Michael Odiong, Project Manager of Premier Records.

Filmmaker Tunde Kelani, veteran highlife musician Victor Olaiya and Tuface Idibia during the recording of Baby Mi Da

With Africa Awake, Victor Essiet perfects return of the Mandators

Big Brother: The Chase… O End of the road for natasha, Sally, as eviction fever grips five contestants T last, it was the end of the The host IK revealed that the A road for serial nominee Diamond and Ruby houses natasha and Selly as both would merge this Friday, with ladies were evicted from the ongoing Big Brother: The Chase during Sunday night’s live eviction show. natasha failed to survive yet another week in the nomination firing line, while Selly found herself heading home after being swapped with Elikem in Oneal’s ‘save & replace’ decision last Monday.

IK delivered a stunning double blow after receiving the verified voting results from the SizwentsalubaGobodo auditor, calling out Selly and natasha from the Diamond house in quick succession.

After joining IK on stage, natasha told the continent how much she’d enjoyed running The Natasha Show, during which she had interviewed her fellow housemates.

Selly said that she hadn’t struggled with being constantly switched between the Diamond and Ruby houses, as she loves being around people. She told viewers that life in the house is different to the way it seems on TV, while natasha revealed that her favourite moment from The Chase had been receiving her letter from home this weekend.

Natasha and Selly

six fake Emerald housemates joining The Chase during the Airtel Arena Showdown and staying on for a few days to spice up the game even more.

They are not competing for the USD 300 000 prize and viewers will not be voting for them. Their only objective is to confuse the other housemates and convince them that the Emerald house is real. IK introduced them to the continent during the show – they are: Sophie (Uganda); JJ (Zimbabwe); Jazz (Kenya); Busi (South Africa); Eveva (Zambia) and Alusa (Kenya).

Meanwhile, last week’s evictees, Fatima and Hakeem seem to be enjoying their time away from The Chase. Fatima told viewers that being in the house had been a lifechanging experience for her and that she had learnt things about herself she didn’t know she had in her. Hakeem said he’d had an overwhelming response from fans; he loves the attention so far. Despite wanting to be with Cleo, he revealed that there was no part of him that wanted to see her evicted any time soon.

n his last visit to The Guardian ealier in the year, Victor Essiet of the Mandators hinted about his plans to return home in full force. From his tone and body language, the reggae star, who ruled t h e air-

Nkulee

waves in those days, seems to have learnt his lesson. It would be recalled that his last attempt to reconnect with the nigerian music industry, after years in the United States failed.

“It’s unfortunate the way our people behave; everybody wants your money. We did everything possible that period, but unfortunately, we were working with a wrong team, who were more interested in the money involved.

However, we’ve learnt our lessons. But all I can tell you is that The Mandators are coming home soon,” he said in a brief chat.

Just recently, news filtered in that Victor Essiet and The Mandators, is scheduled to collaborate with late Lucky Dube’s daughter, nkulee, on a new single, Africa Awake. If the plan scales through, then it will be the first time Essiet and nkulee will be

working together and it is sure to spark unity amongst Reggae artists in Africa.

In the new track, both artistes have come together to confront issues facing Africa head-on through music. The single is to be produced by super-producer, Carl McGregor (also the producer of Jill Scott, Prince, Christina Millian, Aretha Franklin, Jada Grace Gordy (granddaughter of the Motown founder Barry Gordy), and George Clinton, etc.).

Known as the ‘Godfather of African Reggae’, Victor Essiet and The Mandators have made a big impact with great critical acclaim in the world of Reggae music and the motherland of Africa. Their brand new breakthrough single, Freedom Train is now available on iTunes and leading digital outlets worldwide such as Amazon. The single is once made it on new York’s Top 30 Reggae Chart. Produced by Carl McGregor, the song also features the talents of up-and-coming hip-hop artist StyLis. More singles are on the way and the full album

Imo State takes on entertainment fraudsters

By Chika Onwukwe n a move that aims at sanitising the entertainment industry in Imo state, the Senior Technical Assistant to Governor Rochas Okorocha on entertainment matters, Uche Ogbuagu has inaugurated the Entertainment Bureau Imo State (EBIS) Task Force, with a strong directive to clamp down on fake filmmakers and promoters of immorality in the state.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held recently at the government house Owerri, the comedian urged the Task Force to leave no stone unturned in discharging their duties. The ten-man committee will work in tandem with the police to arrest and prosecute anybody or Production Company that extorts money from people in the name of making them stars.

“It has come to our knowledge that some criminal elements, who parade themselves as nollywood filmmakers organise auditions in which they collect substantive amount of money from participants as registration cost.”

Regrettably, such audition never produced any movie or reality show as claimed by the organisers.

“This anomaly has been going on in different

I

parts of the state for sometime now but has come to an end with this initiative. We shall no longer condone strip show in any part of the state; even those flooding the streets with erotic movies should relocate because Imo state is no longer safe for such business.”

Ogbuagu stressed that Governor Okorocha had directed him to draw a line between entertainment and immorality, adding that the level of moral decadence is the industry is becoming very high.

“Government should not fold her hands and watch our people especially the youths go down the drain. The governor is a disciplinarian and will never accept criminality and immorality no matter where is coming from.”

According to the comedian, entertainment is the life wire of the society, but should be done with decorum, urging those involved in this criminality to desist from it or face the full weight of the law.

‘Any film house that wants to do production of any sort in Imo State should register with the Entertainment Bureau for certification before audition and production. It’s grossly inadequate to extract money from people in the name of making them stars that never shine,” he concluded.

Victor will be released later this year.

On her part, nkulee Dube has managed to fuse ethno-soul, jazz, and ethno-ragga together as a vocalist, performer, and songwriter like no other artist.

Born to the family of a music legend, nkulee Dube has filled big shoes and has preserved the name of her late father, Lucky Dube. She is filling those shoes extraordinarily well.

As a guest artist and backing vocalist of her late father’s band ‘One People’, nkulee Dube has performed at numerous major festivals worldwide. The past two years nkulee has toured the globe solo with her own band, excited fans wherever she performs and will be on the road again in the summer of 2013 in support of her first album, My Way. Her new album is currently being recorded in Johannesburg.

Lucky Dube, who won numerous musical awards, is one of Africa’s greatest reggae exponents and artists who played a big part in spreading positive vibes and consciousness through his own brand of African and international reggae and world music. Lucky Dube placed African reggae firmly on the world front burner.

As fans and reggae music enthusiasts awaits the new singles, all eyes on Victor Essiet, who seems determined to return to fatherland in grand style.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

ARTS 39

VisualArts Policy summersault as ‘defective’ ARESUVA makes way for Abuja Biennale

By Tajudeen Sowole

ITH the announcement of a proposed W Abuja Biennale, it appears that a similar event that had been in existence, African Regional Summit on Visual Arts and Exhibition (ARESUVA) will finally be rested. This inconsistency would ostensibly send a wrong signal about Nigeria in international art circles.

The Abuja Biennale, according to a recent statement by National Gallery of Art (NGA), will hold towards end of year. With its debut in 2008, ARESUVA had its second and last edition in 2009. In 2010, the current Director-General of NGA, Abdullahi Muku – then acting after the erstwhile boss, Chief Joe Musa was suspended – announced that it would no longer hold as a yearly event, but “as biennale”, to commence the following year, 2011. In fact the odd year outing, it was stated then, would be good for ARESUVA, as it does not clash with the popular Dak’Art Biennale in Senegal. But between 2011 and now, ARESUVA has not held as a biennale nor has it reverted to its yearly design.

In Lagos, Muku, who was the Special Guest of Honour, at a recent Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA)-organised Distinguished Lecture Series disclosed that NGA plans “to organise a new event to be known as Abuja Biennale”. He confirmed an earlier statement by his Personal Assistant, Mufu Onifade, who, on his behalf, during the British Council-led Nigeria’s preparation for Venice 2015, in Lagos, informed the gathering about the planned biennale. At each pronouncement, there was silence on the fate of ARESUVA. When NGA first presented ARESUVA in Lagos, the then D-G, Musa, had said the event was designed in line with New Partnership for Africa Development (NEPAD) programme. As the two editions held backto-back, ARESUVA gained short-lived but impressive attention from across Africa, based on the strength of its alignment with NEPAD. However, what seemed a lack of solid foundation for ARESUVA started emerging soon after two editions, with another NGA event Art Expo Nigeria coming on stream.

Inadequate preparations and lack of continuity, perhaps exposed the weak structure on which both events were conceptualised, and stunted befitting international art events for Nigeria. It should be recalled that with the emergence of the two events in 2008, hope was high that in the next few years, Nigeria would have taken its rightful place as a leading destination in international art gathering, particularly in Africa.

Across the world, art fairs, art expos and biennales have become part of the branding strategy in promoting creativity and enhancing the tourism potential of host countries. In fact in Africa, the Dak’Art Biennale, in Dakar, Senegal, has in the last two decades become one of the most visited international art events in Africa, playing host to artists within the continent and the Diaspora. Also, the Jo’burg Art Fair in South Africa has made a mark as a market for art of the continent and beyond.

Five years after Art Expo Nigeria and ARE-

SUVA came into being, it is glaring that there is no definite direction towards a sustained international art event for Nigeria.

While ARESUVA, from its format and contents was not sustainable, the Art Expo seemed to have shown greater prospect.

Successful international art events across the world are exhibitions-based with forum or conference as sub-events. For ARESUVA, it was in the opposite order, with emphasis on proffer academic solutions to the dearth of art as a factor in contributing to the development of Africa. As laudable as the concept of gathering Africans from across the continent to tinker the economics of art was, ARESUVA seemed like an extended or international version of the NGA’s yearly twin events: National Symposium on Nigerian Art as well as Distinguished Lecture Series, which holds at a chosen higher institution of learning.

If the proposed Abuja Biennale must be taken seriously, it is important for NGA to clearly define the current state or future of ARESUVA. Silence over an event that had hosted international artists and art scholars just because there is a new concept appears untidy. A week after the announcement of Abuja Biennale in Lagos, Muku eventually disclosed during a chat that ARESUVA could no longer hold. “It’s replaced by the Abuja Biennale,” he stressed.

Reminded that he was the one who pronounced that ARESUVA would continue as biennale from 2011, a promised that was never fulfilled, Muku admitted to the announcement he made in 2010 about making ARESUVA a biennale, but explained that the event was not sustainable the way it was conceptualised “because we found out that it was not presented at the AU” as perceived.

Muku’s allegation that ARESUVA had no AU backing – an apparent dismissal of the NEPAD perspective on which the event was

During the Art Expo Nigeria 2009, Lagos

said to have been built – raises both credibility and lack of continuity issues. While a section of the visual arts community keeps blaming the current administration of NGA for the death of ARESUVA and the drop of standards in the Lagos International Art Expo, the foundations for the two events do not seem strong enough for continuity.

For example, the Art Expo, despite having had five editions, is characterised by inconsistent in the crucial areas of identity and branding. In 2008, it made its debut in what NGA called “a franchise from U.S.based ArtExpos”. A year after, it was changed from ArtExpo Nigeria to Art Expo Nigeria. The erratic identity continued in 2010, when it became International Art Expo Nigeria. Between 2010 and last year, the name had changed again; it’s currently International Art Expo Lagos.

What a journey! Reason: a source from NGA disclosed that “no franchise was ever gotten from the U.S.-based organisers of ArtExpo Las Vegas and ArtExpo New York”.

Clearly, there are several untidy international affiliations, in fact, too many in the NGA-organised ARESUVA and Art Expo events.

Are these events victims of inadequate funding or lack of proper articulation? Art scholar and studio artist, Dr. Kunle Adeyemi might have provided answers to this question in his article titled Lagos International Art Expo 2012: A Deceit of the Public, in response to the glaring lackluster performance of the fifth edition of the event in Lagos. Adeyemi advised that “If the vision of the Art Expo is not clear to the present executors – NGA and Art Galleries Association of Nigeria (AGAN) – they have a choice of either to pull it down completely

The DG of NGA, Muku Abdulahi

or to re-invent it with professionals who have the knowledge and experience”.

While NGA’s pronouncement on repositioning of Art Expo is being awaited, Adeyemi’s call for a “re-invent” appears to have been heeded, so suggests the dismantling of ARESUVA to pave way for Abuja Biennale.

Indeed, biennales across the world are government-organised, but the proposed Abuja Biennale under NGA, given the government agency’s antecedence of tying its operations to perennial delays in yearly budgets of the Federal Government, it might just end up as ‘business as usual’.

Such sole dependence on government’s funding has over the years led to the drastic drop in the quality of the yearly Lagos International Art Expo, despite the event’s Public Private Partnership (PPP) with AGAN. Like the Art Expo, a biennale is also art galleries format exhibition. But for the proposed Abuja Biennale, NGA is not ready to experience another AGAN “failure” in the PPP venture. It has therefore chosen to partner with Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), “As we partnered AGAN in Art Expo, we are collaborating with SNA for Abuja Biennale,” Muku stated.

It’s quite disturbing that despite the laudable participations and contributions of Nigerian artists and curators to events organised in other countries, such human resources are not being tapped to enhance the development of its international art events at home.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

40 ARTS Stories by Tajudeen Sowole S diverse and also controversial as the art that are being A shown in galleries and other art spaces are, particularly installation medium, Princess Tessy Iyase-Odozi’s On Thy Roots We Stand further digs deep into nature.

It’s an installation of a stopped-tree given another life by the artist. And for rescuing the roots and the trunk of the tree, nature gives back to Iyase Odozi inspiration from where comes the title of her second solo art exhibition.

Inside GreenHouse Art Gallery, Alagbole, Ogun State, where the exhibition was held for several months before it came down a few days ago, the installation stands out uniquely among other works of paintings, as is usual with most installations. But when the artist interrupts her guest’s thought with “the tree is in its natural position”, it attracts curiosity of sorts.

Stripped of its barks and left bare, the tree, which, from the artist’s modification, breeds other ‘trees’, actually gives the impression of a sculptural piece. Being a passionate campaigner for green environment, Iyase-Odozi had stopped the tree, among several others that were cut down when she moved into the plot of land. “It was like a spiritual calling”, she recalls telling the workers to spare the tree. “They did not understand why I wanted a tree to stand right in the middle of where a house would be built”.

While explaining the spirituality of the ‘lucky tree’ she says: “I decided to preserve the cuttings from the felled orange trees and transform them into works of art on the same land”. The message of On Thy Roots We Stand, Iyase-Odozi discloses, is that “although the other trees have been cut down, the roots lie buried deep in the ground and literally liveth on”.

Also sharing her experience of creating art from the tree metaphor, she advises that people should learn “to accept what we cannot change; flow with nature and its beings; how beauty lies in all things around us; and that nothing is a waste, therefore, condemn nothing”.

For Iyase-Odozi, a naturalist painter, the canvas is a fertile space to prepare people’s soul for the hereafter, which suggests quite a number of nature paintings at the show. For example, melding the earthly with the heavenly, her brush strokes invoke the energy of a preacher on the pulpit. Not sure of what the hereafter looks like in physical interpretation, but she is convinced that “we all have a place we are heading after leaving this earth. So, why can’t we prepare for it right now”.

In her debut solo show Arrival at National Museum, Onikan, Lagos in 2009, the traces of her passion for spiritual realm and greenery was first invoked in works such as Holy Sword and Gatekeepers, On a larger scale of commitment to make the environment a better place, Iyase-Odozi also believes in empowerment for the youth. This much she stated a few years ago by taking her art out of formal art gallery settings to the grassroots via schools.

On using art and the creative sector to empower youth for social development and in conjunction with the “enormous support of her husband, Odozi”, she set up the GreenHouse Empowerment, from which the gallery is carved out. She notes that just taking the GreenHouse traveling art programmes from one space to another has inspired the broader concept.

At GreenHouse Empowerment Centre, a mini museum of ancient and contemporary art, art and craft workshops as well as facilities for other culture-related disciplines are available for youths as well as others who may use the facility for excursion.

Linking Arrival with On Thy Roots…, Iyase-Odozi recalls how “I made a commitment to have another solo exhibition within three years”. But the GreenHouse project, she states, stood be-

Iyase-Odozi at work

On Thy Roots… Iyase-Odozi’s song for nature tween her and the commitment to have the second show within a target period. Having scaled through the hurdle of timing, came the content challenge for the show, “To guide me, I began to prepare a checklist of what had to be done and establish priorities”.

Despite having a first solo, she admits to the fact that the curatorial content brought some challenges, “For, creativity involves exploring new ideas, discovering new relationships and pushing the boundaries of possibilities”. These combined, she explains, produced the theme, leading to the “major installation work”.

Of recent, photography has become attractive to some artists, who are using it to enhance or aid the execution of their works.

For Iyase-Odozi, photography has always been a passion, saying,“Although I did not become a professional photographer, I was one of those who you would find snapping every scene”.

She traces her photography passion to “over the past three decades taking all sorts of shots”. Such snapshots included that of “Bedford and kombi (danfo) buses with various bizarre inscriptions, market scenes, and above all, the clouds, which I often catch from an aero-plane in the sky”.

Iyase-Odozi studied Creative Arts (Painting) at the University of Lagos, but started full time studio practice in 1984. After living in Germany for about 10 years and returning to Nigeria in 2002, she participated in several group exhibitions, both home and abroad.

After two decades in Lagos, Experience Nigeria births in Abuja with Splashes LTHOUGH Experience Nigeria is the oldest A yearly art competition and exhibition event in the country, organisers are hoping to expand

In tribute to Odutoku, Experience Nigeria has tokun “encouraged me to continue art event, tagged the first prize of the 2013 edition ‘Gani even though I met him just for a short period”.

Odutokun Prize’. This is in remembrance of Other categories of awards include Life its scope, as they prepare for its 22nd edition. the Ahmadu Bello University art teacher “for Achievement, Art Teacher of the Yea and SponFor its 2013 edition tagged Splashes of Nigeria… his contribution to the development of Nigersors of the Year.

Shades of things To Come, late renowned artist, ian art. In particular, Olaopa recalled that OduIn addition to art competition, AARC also orGani Odutokun will receive a posthumour recognition. Organised by African Art Resource Centre (AARC), Experience Nigeria will also hold in Abuja by way of expanding its scope. The organisers’ decision to move it from Lagos where it has been held since 1991 may just be the change required to get broader attention, the director and founder, Oladele Olaopa stated.

Scheduled to hold in November at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, Olaopa said the pre-event has just taken off so as to allow interested artists submit their works early enough for jury. Also, the long duration of preparation would afford potential corporate sponsors and supporters of Experience Nigeria 2013 an opportunity to make input to the success of the event.

Thematically Olaopa stated that the 2013 edition was geared towards “encouraging optimism among Nigerians”. He noted that at this period of Nigeria’s economic and political challenges, art should be used to make a difference by continuing to play the role of a medium “for social changes and understanding between government and the people”.

An estimated 100 entries of art works are being expected for the contest, but only three, he said, would be given prizes at the grand finale at Transcorp Hilton. “The top prizes are N100, 000 for first; N250, 000 for second; and N150, 000 for the third place”. However, prizes are not restricted to the top three, as the next three win- One of the past winners of Experience Nigeria Art Competition, painter, Wunmi Banjo. ners also get N50, 000 each”.

ganises art exhibitions for selected artists as well as having a Children Creative Camp. For the exhibition, it had twice focused on special areas such as sports, which is uncommon in art promotion, as was witnessed in 2011 at a show, where AARC took art to the golf course at Ikoyi Club 1938. Works of over 40 artists were viewed by golfers, as they shared the beauty of creativity.

Sadly, after 22 years of existence, Experience Nigeria – the grandfather of art competitions – is still not ‘properly funded’. How has AARC kept the show going till date?

Olaopa noted that the challenges faced by an army of young artists have been the motivation to keep Experience Nigeria art going. He, however, express worries that “cost of staging art exhibitions is increasingly getting out of the reach for young artists”, as art galleries also have their preference, making it extremely difficult for young artists to find avenue for self-expression.

In any case, Olaopa is hopeful that support would come so long as “past editions of Experience Nigeria has empowered artists from different medium through the art competitions.

He added, “The future of the show will get better if more corporate support comes our way”.

Last year, Larry Isima’s painting ‘Life’ won the first prize at the grand finale and exhibition held at National Museum, Onikan, Lagos. Also, after last year’s event Olaopa said over 80 children from Ayotayo Comprehensive School, Daniella’s Montessori School and Little Saints Orphanage were engaged in three specially designed activities”.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

ARTS

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ArtHouse Compiled by Florence Utor

Return of the helper 2013 HE annual conference tagged Return of The Helper T (ROTH), comes up on the20th of July, at the Incubator, 7/8 Chief Yusuf Abiodun way, City of David, Oniru, Victoria Island, from 9am to 4pm. The colour code is Orange.

Torn set for premiere NEW movie, Torn,directed by Moses Inwang, aka Sneeze, A which stars industry heavy weights such as Monalisa Chinda, Joseph Bemjamin, Bimbo Manuel, Ireti Doyle and Julius Agwu is set to premiere on July 27 at the Silver bird Galleria Lagos, and will be released on August 2.

Nnenna’s Akaraka still showing T Art Twenty One, Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, A Lagos, Nnenna Okore’s art exhibition titled Akaraka is currently showing till the end of August 2013.

Paperboyz back with Make Love, Hit It IPHOP/Pop Duo is back with a new visual for the track H Make Love, Hit It, featuring Dj Nikita Noskow. Directed

by Mayor Boss Production, it is taken from upcoming EP Project Naija Boss Techno Reloaded. It will be in store by September 15th 2013.

Yvonne Nelson’s House of Gold set for premiere OUSE OF GOLD, the latest movie from the stables of H Media GH and Yvonne Nelson Productions is set for premiere on the 19th of August at the Silverbird Galleria The hilarious comedy futures Ice Prince Zamani and Omawumi.

Zim out with hit single,

By Tony Nwanne OSEPH Onebunne is one artist whose music has lyrics on themes about Nigeria and Africa, and how his love for Africa lured him into music.

Fondly called Zim by his fans, his new single, ‘Africa’, which is currently making waves and enjoying airplay, has shown promise, especially with his Afro pop direction.

Zim, who started singing in 2000, found solace in preaching the message of peace, love and harmony in the Nigeria and Africa as a whole, while speaking on the need for Africans to live in unity.

Eh stated recently, “This track

J

US-based gospel artist launches album IGERIAN gospel artiste N based in the United States of America, Omenesa Oruma Akomolafe, is set for the public presentation of her album on Sunday, July 21 in Abuja. Titled, It’s Not Over, the launch will feature series of activities such as live performances from notable gospel artistes including Dr. Panam Percy Paul, Chris Morgan, El-gibbor, Nikki Laoye, Oyinkus, Vivien Stephen, Solomon Lange and a host of others.

The anchor will be MC Eteye and Wazobia FM’s Willy Willy.

The passionate singer, who was diagnosed with Scoliosis at the age of 11, has auditioned for American reality singing shows including American Idol, Gospel Dream and Sunday Bestan.Oruma is also a marriage counsellor and

‘Africa’ is one song where I talk about the good things in Africa, the people, culture and the traditions. The song for me talks about the positivity of the continent, Africa and Africans, who have overtime made sure that Africa remains a peaceful, accommodating and loving continent in the world”.

Zim, who hails from Anambra State, broke away from his former group, 2ST, to pursue his solo career, sees himself having a strong affinity for Africans, having lived all his life on the continent, adding, “I would like to see myself making wave with my kind of music that evolves around preaching the message of goodwill, peace, love unity and tranquility in Africa. I believe that as far as Nigerian music is concerned, the world will continue to reckon with us, and I will definitely contribute my own quota to make the Nigerian music scene more competitive”.

Ace performer, Jimi Solanke (middle) and his family cutting his birthday cake while Dejumo `Lewis moderates

King … Touching lives with music

By Omiko Awa SIDE from working in the Vineyard of God, ministering to different people and hosting The Deep Things of God Conferences in the United States, Johnny King is a motivational speaker and the Lead Pastor of Sound Doctrine Ministries, Arlington, Texas. He is also involved in music and has produced a couple of music CDs. Speaking of his sojourn in music, King said, “My love for music goes back to my childhood days when I attended St. Thomas The Apostle School, Franklin County, Columbus, Ohio, where I featured in stage performances to hone my talent.”

However, with King’s parents parting ways, the young man almost lost focus of what he wanted in life; but drawing from his childhood dream, he made use of the trying situation to carve a niche for himself by going fully into music.

“I gave my heart to Christ on March 5, 1989 and since then I have been singing from church to church and from one special programme to the other, though at a small scale.”

Influenced by great acts like Kool and the Gang, Shalamar, The Whispers, Billy Ocean and others, Kings ventured into music playing inspiring gospel songs.

“I have featured in many shows, where I sang in Churches, conventions, camp meetings, concerts, weddings, parties and even self-organised programmes,” he said.

A

His first CD, The God Of Eden released in 2002, which enjoyed massive airplay across the globe brought him fame, making him to be a soughtafter gospel artiste in the US. Though it took him precisely 10 years to produce his second CD Heavenly Band, King said, he is not in a hurry to rush to the studious.

“I have to take my time, make sure that the existing CD gains ground before going to the studio,” he equipped.

Commenting on the massive following his latest song is enjoying, the motivational speaker cum pastor, said, “Heavenly Band’s concept is akin to having an AM/FM Band on ones radio. If you want to receive the right station, you have to be on the right frequency, either an AM or FM Band; so, the Heavenly Band is the exclusive frequency to the throne room of God. This is the room from where God speaks to us and we need to know how to be connected to it.”

King noted that his vision is to add value and esteem to the lives of men and women by preparing them to realise and maximise their potentials in God, as well as to live successful, satisfying lives of meaningful service to God and the society.

When laughter is good business

By Uche Udoh HE ability to turn entertainment into a lucrative profession was one of the topics discussed a fortnight ago at Rainbow Book Club’s reading session at Le Meridien Hotel, Ogeyi Place,

T

Port Harcourt. The discussion was based on the June book-ofthe-month and Julius A g w u ’ s autobiography Jokes Apart – How Did I Get Here?

Jokes Apart is an exposé on a man who has a k e e n awareness of his gift f o r

entertaining from a young age. As a child, his talent often landed him in trouble with his parents. A selfdescribed ‘rascal’, Agwu acknowledges his tendency toward rebellion, setting him apart from his siblings.

This daring attitude however has taken him into the entertainment businessman where he is today.

Agwu captures one’s attention by using everyday English with smatterings of pidgin, which gives a sense that he is speaking directly to the reader.

The book club’s discussion had one focus: why are creative artists like Julius Agwu

increasingly popular in our society? Answers varied, with members suggesting that greater access to information means that the failings of otherwise highly esteemed members of society are now out in the open and are thus a great source of material for jokes. A lack of employment also forces people to tap into previously undiscovered talents and uncharted paths to make a living. All these contribute to a thriving creative economy in Nigeria, observable in an increased patronage of Theatre Arts as a course of study, which was before now often a source of disdain.

Strongly emphasised during the poolside discussion was the need for young people to be allowed to discover their passion without their parents directing their children’s career choice. Julius Agwu is a living proof there is a place for pursuing one’s dreams with zest! Our next book of the month is Chimamanda Adichie’s latest bestselling book, AMERiCANAH. Agwu is one of the guests expected at this year’s Port Harcourt Book Festival (formerly known as Garden City Literary Festival) that will take place from October 21 – 26, 2014.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

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AutoWheels The new Range Rover sport car

2013 Range Rover sport Stories by Taiwo Hassan HE incoming of the all-new T Range Rover Sport car from its manufacturer – Land Rover Motors, has been described for its resilient to compete favourably with other SUVs in terms of its adaptability to the environment especially, in respect of fuel emission.

The car, which was launched into the global market in Wales few days ago, is already getting review attention, especially for its reputation as being one step ahead of its predecessor, with its sleeker Evoque-style nose and more elegant rear end.

But possibly, the biggest difference in the new innovation, is being much lighter than its producessor.

Land Rover has been able to managed to shed as much as 420 kilogramme, which has helped cut fuel consumption and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by as much as 14 per cent.

With this, it showed that the manufacturer took time to perfect its compactability, which has been commended by auto journalists.

According to Land Rover, with the debut of the new Range Rover Sport, lovers of auto wheels have the opportunity to choose between these models- a 288bhp 3.0 SDV6 diesel and a supercharged 503bhp 5.0 V8 petrol.

Specifically, Land Rovers said another model- a 255bhp TDV6 model will join the lineup early next year, while a diesel hybrid version (with CO2 emissions of just 169 kilogramme) and a 334bhp SDV8 will also follow respectively.

In fact, industry watchers suggested that only around seven per cent of SUV buyers consider handling a priority; a comfortable ride and topnotch refinement, are understandably seen as more important, and it’s in those two areas that the Range Rover excels.

Land Rover revealed that the making of the latest automobile did not come easy. A look at its masterpiece touch indicate artistic perfection that enraged both the exterior and the interior view.

Its fitted 21-inch alloys, which sizes range from 19 to 22 inches indicates a remarkable job by the manufacturer, while also having a mouthering urban bumps and potholes.

In fact, things are changing for the better for automobiles as the Sporty car demonstrates the ruggedness on wheel with an incredibly speed rate during test run.

The SDV6 diesel doesn’t have the outright power of similarly priced rivals such as the Porsche Cayenne S diesel and BMW X5 M50d, but is supersmooth and effortlessly flexible from low revs.

The eight-speed automatic gearbox is generally smooth, too.

The supercharged engine also endows the Range Rover

Interior

view of

with nearsuperc a r p a c e , because it’s capable of sending the Sport to 60 mile per hour in just five seconds.

Hard acceleration delivers throaty V8 roar, but thankfully the noise dies down to a faded hum at cruising speeds.

However, being a Range Rover, it’s designed to do precisely that, thanks to the latest Terrain Response system, which is fitted as standard –

the car

and an optional low-ratio ‘box.

Entry-level SE trim will be available only with the forthcoming TDV6 engine, but even this model will come with a full leather interior, laminated side windows, xenon headlights, rain-sensing wipers, climate control, rear parking sensors, satellite-navigation and a DAB radio.

Step up to Health, Safety and Environment (the starting point for the SDV6 engine), and also gets keyless entry, a

reversing camera, front parking sensors, an electrically adjustable steering wheel, heated rear seats and various styling enhancements.

The new Range Rover Sport has been adjudged as a bargain.

Precisely, the SDV6 model, which is predicted to be the biggest seller, starts at £60,000, and the V8 from a huge £81,550.

Even the entry-level TDV6 will cost more than £51k when it arrives next year.

However, while some similarly priced rivals are faster and more fun to drive, none is as comfortable or refined.

The Sport is also more practical than most premium SUVs thanks to its wide and spacious cabin and the option of those extra two seats. It’s also extremely well equipped.

LAMATA pledges speedy completion of road projects to boost transportation State government LallAGOS has pledged to ensure that ongoing road projects in the state are completed in earnest in order to boost functional transport system in the state.

The road projects, according to the government, were part of its scheme to boost infrastructural development in the state to ensure that roads are motorable for motorists plying them.

Managing Director of Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Dr. Dayo

Mobereola, made this known at a stakeholders’ meeting before the flag-off of the rehabilitation of Lisabi-Apata Road, Shomolu, in Lagos.

He said that government was determined to bring development to all parts of the state to promote commerce, social well-being and economic development.

According to Mobereola, the Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola’s administration knew the importance of good and motorable road to daily commute and business, hence the determination of

him to ensure that all roads infrastructure are put in proper state.

The LAMATA’s boss, who was represented by the Director of Road Maintenance and Traffic Management, Funsho Elulade, an engineer, at the occasion, said that government would continue to ensure judicious use of taxpayers’ money by providing amenities and infrastructure that best support their daily aspirations.

He tasked the people of Shomolu and its environs to support the contractor (Rover

Construction Nigeria Limited) handling the repair work to carry out his assignment by removing all unserviceable cars parked on the road as well as advising their youths to abstain from disturbing the contractor.

The work involved the repair and reconstruction of weak drains/culverts, provision and construction of drain cover slabs to be used as walkways, provision, laying and compaction of 40mm thick asphaltic concrete over the entire length of the road, provision and

installation of concrete kerbs and traffic safety measures (road marking).

In his speech, member representing Shomolu constituency one, Rotimi Emmanuel Olowo, commended the Lagos State Government and LAMATA for coming to Shomolu to rescue Lisabi-Apata Road from further deterioration and pledged the support of the people to the contractor.

Chairman of the council, Olorogun Gbolahan BagoStowe warned miscreants from disturbing the contrac-

tor, saying that anyone caught would be dealt with according to the law.

Fashola

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

AUTOWHEELS | 43

‘Leeway to revival of Nigeria’s auto industry’ Stories by Taiwo Hassan OR the nation’s auto sector to attain growth and development, the Federal Government and key stakeholders must tackle these challenges, unregulated importation of fully built up automobiles, especially trucks, pick-ups and agricultural tractors; low government patronage for locally produced automobiles; and a duty regime that favours imported competitors.

Without these efforts in place to resolve these anomalies, the nation’s automotive industry may continue to remain dormant.

The Managing Director of National Trucks Manufacturers (NTM), Kano, Ibrahim Bayero, made this revealation while interacting with some farmers at a facility tour of the company complex, in Kano, recently.

Bayero lamented that despite the existence of an official gazette and a presidential directive that government ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), that they must patronise the products of local assembly plants, except where the specific requirements are not available, buyers of vehicles in official circles have continued to break the law by opting for imported products, some of which do not have after-sales support.

He argued that in view of the fact that government is the customer with the biggest purchasing power in the Nigerian market, such misdirected patronage helps

F

Production of Sinotruck vehicles to boost the economy of foreign countries where the vehicles are imported from is to the detriment of the local automakers.

According to him, it also gives imported automobiles extra advantage over locally made vehicles in the competitive Nigerian market.

“President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, through the Secretary to the Federal Government, sent a circular to all Federal Government ministries, departments, and agencies

(MDAs), that priority should be given to the purchase of locally assembled vehicles, and if the local assembly plants cannot meet those requirements, then the government department concerned should apply to the president’s office for authorisation to import. It is not enough to enact a law. We have to implement the law.

There are many laws that exist in Nigeria, but proper implementation and monitoring are not there, and that is the problem,” Bayero said.

Following the reactivation of NTM in 2003, the plant diversified into the production of Howo (Sinotruck) heavy duty trailer/tanker heads with single and double axles, and a wide range of heavy and light duty trucks (also of Sinotruck brand and with single and double axles). The variants include fuel/water tankers, cargo, skid loader and refuse compactor models.

For the lower end of the commercial vehicles market, NTM also builds single and double-cabin Greatwall Wingle

pick-ups, NTM mini buses and Foton agricultural tractors.

The NTM Chief Executive Officer explained that there are two auto plants in the country with installed capacities to meet the farm tractor needs of Nigerians, adding that what his company alone is capable of producing, is more than the annual requirement of the farming population in the country.

Yet, he stressed, government officials, not only encourage importation, but also recently approached some manufacturers abroad, including those in Turkey, to set up another plant in Nigeria when the existing ones have hardly been challenged.

“NTM is one of the two manufacturers of agricultural tractors. NTM has the capacity to produce 5,000 units yearly on one eight-hour shift, and if you look at the total annual agricultural tractor procurement by both government and the private sector, it is not up to 5,000 units.

“You will recall that the late President Yar’Adua had a programme in place by which he tried to start a process of mechanisation of farming in the country.

The idea was to procure a minimum of 3,000 units of agricultural tractors yearly for at least three years. NTM has enough capacity to satisfy the agricultural tractor needs of Nigeria”.

He described the current differential of maximum of 10 per cent between the duties his company and other commercial vehicle manufactur-

ers pay on CKD sets for the production of their sundry product ranges, and the duties fully built up automobiles attract, as terribly too low, Bayero called on government to widen the gap in order to encourage the disadvantaged local auto industry.

A favourable duty differential and increased government patronage will have the desirable impact of taking the auto industry on the road to recovery, and in the case of NTM, help it return to the good old days in the early 80s when annual production hit 3,200 units.

“Unfortunately, we have not been able to reach that stage again, he regretted. “In the original NTM – the joint venture between Fiat Iveco and Federal Government – the capacity of the factory was 7,000 trucks and 5,000 agricultural tractors, and that capacity still exists… Price was also a factor definitely. In the early 80s, the exchange rate was one dollar to one naira, but today, one dollar exchanges for over N150”.

NTM began production of agricultural tractors and a range of Fiat/Iveco trucks in 1980, and operated successfully till the effects of the structural adjustment programme (SAP) forced the company to close shop in 1986.

But, as part of Federal Government’s privatisation programme, the plant was revived in 2003, and now produces, in addition to tractors, heavy-duty trucks, a wide range of light trucks, pickups and buses.

Firm records 464,600 unit sales in six months ZECH auto giant, Škoda, has announced the sale of 464,600 units of vehicles worldwide in the first half of the year.

According to the company, the sales represent an increase of 5.8 per cent compared to 493,000 units of cars sold last year.

Although, Skoda achieved sale of 87,400 cars in June, this was slightly more than the June 2012 figures, mak-

C

ing it set a new record for single sales in a month.

At the same time, June 2013 was the second best sales month in the company’s corporate history ever as it once again outgrew the overall European market by increasing their market share to 4.1 per cent compared to 3.9 per cent last year.

Sales in the first half of 2013 were primarily influenced by model changeovers and the

start of production of the Škoda Octavia and Škoda Superb.

The continuing weak situation on a number of European car markets had an impact on Škoda sales. “Škoda successfully implemented the growth strategy in the first half of the year despite the challenging environment”, said the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Winfried Vahland.

“Although our sales

declined slightly in the first six months, primarily due to the start of production of the new Octavia as well as the very weak European markets, we delivered in June, for the first time in 2013, more vehicles than the same month in 2012. It is also the best June sales result ever,” he added.

“In the second half of the year, we expect a further increase in deliveries.

However, the economic con-

ditions, especially in the European markets continue to be a challenge,” Vahland concluded. Škoda is preparing to launch a total of eight new or revised models into the market this year.

Last week saw the launch of the new Škoda Octavia RS from the Octavia family and also the new Škoda Superb – saloon and Combi.

In the second half of the year, the Czechs will be put-

ting even more effort into their campaign.

In Western Europe, the company delivered 35,700 vehicles in June, slightly up on the same period last year’s 35,600 deliveries.

Thus, the Czech carmaker developed significantly better than the generally declining market. Škoda market shares in Western Europe grew to 3.2 per cent (June 2012: 3.0 per cent).

Ford offers free hybrid upgrades for brand, as lawsuits loom YBRIDS are getting a little H upgrade, and it might all be thanks to a handful of lawsuits filed this spring in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and California that charge the United States (U.S.) automaker with making empty mileage promises about the cars’ 47 mile-per-gallon guarantee.

Now, Ford is offering free upgrades to U.S. and Canadian hybrid customers to improve their vehicles’ fuel economy, affecting 77,000 2013 Ford CMax Hybrid, 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid, and 2013 Lincoln MKZ Hybrids.

Starting in August, these enhanced models will have their electric cruising speed raised from 62 miles per hour to 85 mph, and Autoblog explains that this will allow the hybrids to make better use of the their grille shutters, reduce the electric fan speed, minimise engine warm-up time, and decrease use of the

air conditioning compressor.

It’s still unclear how much these upgrades will cost the car manufacturer, but in a hybrid auto segment that is seeing more and more automakers rolling out increasingly fuel efficient cars, Ford needs to not only advertise its impressive fuel economy, but also prove it.

So far, Ford is holding its own in the U.S. electric vehicle market. While other big name automakers are struggling to remain steady, the U.S. automaker is still posting gains.

Ford’s share in the segment has reportedly risen to 16 per cent, while others have witnessed the opposite trend.

Toyota Motors, for example, has had to sustain a five per cent drop over the same period in sales for its iconic Prius vehicle.

Ford is also continuing to show signs of an impressive

comeback. The company has been able to increase its share of the U.S. vehicle market by one percent this year, and as it continues to make its big comeback along with General Motors, it is making sure to keep consumer satisfaction where it needs to be.

And Ford has a lot to live up to. Its big brother, GM, the largest U.S. automaker has been all over the headlines this summer, buying back its shares from the U.S. Treasury, rejoining the S&P 500 Index, and pulling ahead once again as one of the world’s global car sales leaders.

GM has proven that it knows how to resurrect success and maintain its customer loyalty, and Ford is now feeling the pressure to provide the same consumer guarantee. It looks like it’ll start with this free upgrade. o far, Ford is holding its own in the U.S. electric vehicle mar-

ket. While other big name automakers are struggling to remain steady, the U.S. automaker is still posting gains. Ford’s share in the segment has reportedly risen to 16 per cent, while others have witnessed the opposite trend.

Ford Focus

Toyota Motors, for example, has had to sustain a five percent drop over the same period in sales for its iconic Prius vehicle.

Ford is also continuing to show signs of an impressive comeback. The company has

been able to increase its share of the U.S. vehicle market by one percent this year, and as it continues to make its big comeback along with General Motors, it is making sure to keep consumer satisfaction where it needs to be.

44

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

BusinessTravel Pain, agony over incessant missing baggage at Nigerian airports

By Wole Shadare N a daily basis, someone is complaining that a carrier has damaged an item in their checked baggage or that something from their checked baggage was pilfered.

These incidents frequently take centre stage in public conversation of the airline industry.

A regular argument from the travelling public is that if an airline accepts a checked bag it should be responsible for the contents of the baggage, for both damage and theft, despite every airline’s contract of carriage detailing an extensive list of items that are not to be checked in baggage, even if excess valuation baggage insurance is purchased, and that the airline will not accept the liability for damage and theft of baggage contents. While people want the airlines to take responsibility, the reality is that they cannot.

Just recently, Arik Air’s passengers on arrival from New York raised alarm over the pilferage of their luggage. About nine of them petitioned the President, Minister of Aviation and other relevant agencies over the menace of baggage theft at the Lagos airport.

Why can’t an airline assure passengers that the contents of their bags will arrive undamaged and not pilfered? That would be magical for an airline to know that the content or the entire bags would arrive safely.

That brings us to the responsibility of airports managers in Nigeria, particularly the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and other relevant agencies, which seem not to be alive to their responsibilities.

O

In the United States for instance, airlines are required by U.S. regulations to compensate travellers for up to $3,300 in the event that checked bags are lost or damaged. But that’s only for domestic travel.

For most international flights, bag liability is limited to approximately $9.07 per pound for checked bags, which is virtually nothing (a 30 lb. bag gets you $270 in coverage; note that some international airlines follow a different convention. British Airways, for example, limits bag claims to approx. $1700).

For some people, those traveling with designers perfumes, Vera Wang wedding gowns, or simply a lot of expensive clothing that cost as much as $3,000, it is simply isn’t enough coverage, and for almost everyone, $270 is way too little.

These are some of the reasons the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) last year came up with measures to curtail the menace.

Piqued by the maltreatment meted out to travelers, the Director General of NCAA, Captain Folayele Akinkuotu, has picked up the gauntlet to ensure strict enforcement of rules to guard against ill treatment of passengers occasioned by flight delays, lost baggage among other vices.

One hopes that the NCAA’s policy enforcement would not be all talks without action The menace of baggage pilfering occurs at airports around the globe and the menace is gradually being nipped in the bud with only few complaints.

At the Lagos airport and others across the country, the incidence of baggage pilfering appears to be on the increase.

Why can’t an airline assure passengers that the contents of their bags will arrive undamaged and not pilfered? That would be magical for an airline to know that the content or the entire bags would arrive safely. That brings us to the responsibility of airports managers in Nigeria, particularly the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and other relevant agencies to be alive to their responsibilities.

This criminal activity is said to be perpetrated by a cartel, which comprises workers of ground handling company, customs, airlines, immigration, and some security agents during the movement of luggage.

Many air travellers on both local and international routes have been known to arrive at their destinations only to discover that their luggage had been tampered with, sometimes with all valuables removed. Although there have been daily complaints at the airports, how the menace occurs still remains a mystery to aviation authorities.

Very often, the ground handling companies and their workers are blamed for stealing passengers’ baggage, as they are usually the last contact with the loads before they are put in the cargo compartment of the plane. The situation is worse at the cargo section of the airport.

Investigation shows that goods meant for export as well as those imported into the coun-

try get pilfered and either kept at the airport fence, in offices or with food vendors around the airport.

In 2010, Nigerians were shocked to discover that the Digital Data Capturing machines belonging to INEC for voters’ registration were stolen at the Lagos airport and hidden by the airport’s fence.

It provoked a war of words between the authorities and the spokesmen of the cargo handling company.

While not denying that ground workers could be involved in the disgraceful act, the Managing Director of one of the handling companies, Mr. Olu Owolabi, said recently that stealing of passengers luggage would require the connivance of security agencies at the airports to thrive.

“There is airline security and there is SAHCOL security at the points of loading, were all these people sleeping when all this was happening?

We all know that pilfering is a major challenge not just to the ground handlers, but also the airlines and other security agencies at the airports, said Owolabi.

He said it would be wrong for anybody to conclude that his luggage was tampered with in Nigeria. It might have happened from the originating country, adding that, “our staff, most importantly the new ones are given enough training to dissuade them from engaging in the act.”

Frustrated air travellers have also had cause to drag some airlines before the Consumer Protection Directorate of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), over incidences of missing luggage.

A passenger showing signs of frustration, following discovering that his baggage had been stolen.

Peacock Travels makes inroad to South Africa’s tourism HE Group Executive Chairman, Peacock T Travels and Tours, Segun Phillips, said the company was launching a special inroad to some tourist attractions in South Africa and the Southern African region, adding that it was ready said to take passengers to the destinations in comfort and style.

Giving a glimpse of the tour packages, Mr. Patrick Konzolo, the Business Development Manager of Peacock Travel - SA listed them to include, Jozi-Amand’la Tour, ‘City of Gold’ Half Day Johannesburg City Tour, Full Day Sun City & Pilanesberg Nature Reserve Tour.

Others are Full Day Sun City & Pilanesberg, Nature Reserve Tour, Kwazulu-Natal – Durban, Cape Town, Full Day Pretoria City Tour, Full Day Pretoria City Tour, Gold Reef City, Half Day Soweto Tour, Garden Route, and Table Mountain and Robben Island.

He said the company also offered special tour packages to tourist attractions in Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Zambia, Zimbabwe and all the countries in the Southern African region.

Some of the tourist centres in some of the countries, according to him are, Mpumalanga, Kruger National Park, Port

Elizabeth, Fish River Crayon and Victoria Falls.

He equally disclosed that the firm has launched a new fleet of modern and top-ofthe-range cars and buses in South Africa.

According to him, “using our fleet, we offer the following services: Airport Transfers, Staff Transport; Door-to-Door Passenger Transport; Special events - Sports etc; Corporate Function Transport; Custom Transport Solutions, He added: “Spend the afternoon exploring Johannesburg and taking in the highlights, including Liliesleaf, Westcliff view, Wits,

Nelson Mandela Bridge, Museum Africa, Mary Fitzgerald Square, Newtown, the Carlton Centre and Constitution Hill.”

For example, “Cape Town, in the Western Cape Province of South Africa, is one of the most popular cities in the world. It is the second largest city in South Africa. It is locally known as ‘Mother City’” “Mozambique offers visitors 2500 kilometres of incredible tropical coastline. Golden sunshine, sumptuous seafood and crystal clear waters are just a few of the highlights this East Coast destination has to offer”, he added.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

BUSINESSTRAVEL 45

Expanding global flight network through code sharing Stories by Chika Goodluck-Ogazi IRLINES round the world are getting A into the business of air connectivity through codeshare agreement with other carriers in the industry to expand their flight operations network for the convenience of travelling passengers, as well as to increase the frequency of services.

Under a code sharing agreement, the airline that actually operates the flight, that is, the one providing the plane, the crew and the ground handling services is called the operating carrier. While, the company or companies that sell tickets for that flight but do not actually operate it are called marketing carriers.

A codeshare agreement is an aviation business arrangement where two or more airlines share the same flight. A seat can be purchased on one airline but is actually operated by a cooperating airline under a different flight number or code.

This agreement between airlines in the globe allows greater access to cities through a given airline’s network without having to offer extra flights, which makes connections simpler by allowing single bookings across multiple planes.

For the passengers, it provides clearer routing for the customer, allowing a customer to book travel from point A to C through point B under one carrier’s code, instead of a customer booking from point A to B under one code, and from point B to C under another code.

This is not only a superficial addition as cooperating airlines also strive to synchronise their schedules and coordinate luggage handling, which makes transfers between connecting flights less time-consuming.

The coreshare also allowed shared responsibility between the carriers, for instance when flying between two cities without a single-airline connection, the passenger can pick a codeshared flight over two airlines or two flights booked separately. If the flights are not codeshared, then the second airline has no responsibility if the passenger or luggage misses the second flight due to a delay with the first.

Therefore, under a codeshared flight, the second airline is unlikely to charge extra fees or deny boarding should the first, cooperating airline cause a delay.

Also, in flights from both airlines that fly the same route, it provides an apparent increase in the frequency of service on the route by one airline.

Codesharing provides a method for carriers who do not operate their own aircraft on a

given route to gain exposure in the market through display of their flight numbers.

While most passengers have a preference for flights that provide a direct connection. Criticism has been leveled against code sharing by consumer organisations and national departments of trade since it is claimed it is confusing and not transparent to passengers.

Alliances with other global airlines offer passengers many benefits, including an expanded network of destinations, simplified check-in and baggage procedures and enhanced connections to help make the journey as short as possible.

Most major airlines today have code sharing partnerships with other airlines, which has been a key feature of the major airline alliances.

For instance, with Star Alliance, you can

reach over 1,290 destinations in over 189 countries on more than 21,000 daily flights.

United States Airways has joined with a number of partners to aid in seamless travel around the world by providing a greater number of destinations and flight choices that can be conveniently booked by the passengers.

China Airlines said it would introduce codeshare flights with Hawaiian Airlines at the start of its winter schedule on October 27. Coupled with the two weekly direct Taipei-Honolulu flights it launched on June 2, China Airlines will provide passengers with 11 Taipei-Honolulu roundtrip flights a week. CAL is the only airline in Taiwan offering direct flights to Hawaii. The codeshare flights will deliver more convenient services for customers while helping to expand the CAL network.

Overland Airways reduces fares on Asaba route VERLAND Airways has reduced the O flight fares on its Asaba- Lagos and Asaba-Abuja routes to serve the travelling passengers better.

The company noted that starting from July 18, 2013, passengers would enjoy Overland Airways flight services from Asaba to Abuja and Lagos for N18, 000, every Monday to Friday.

The Chief Operating Officer of Overland Airways, Mrs. Aanu Benson stated that the introduction of the special fare offer on Asaba route is to appreciate and reward customers for their patronage since Overland Airways commenced flight operations at Asaba Airport.

Benson also said that Overland Airways is determined to continue offering excellent and satisfactory services to her customers and will not compromise in the delivery of effective and comfortable services at all times.

For the convenience of its esteemed customers, She added that Overland Airways has adjusted its flight times on the AsabaAbuja and Asaba- Lagos route.

According to the company, Overland Airways flight will now depart Abuja to Asaba at 10.00am, while Asaba to Abuja flight will depart at 2.15pm. Flight from Asaba to Lagos will depart at 11.30am, while return flight from Lagos to Asaba will depart at 1.00pm.

OR Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg

‘Heathrow Airport needs third runway’ THIRD runway for Heathrow, London A Airport, may soon be constructed going by hints from the British government officials.

As the major hub airport, the airport attracts many transfer passengers and supports a very wide range of direct flight destinations at high frequencies.

It is also believed to be the world’s busiest airport based on number of international passengers.

The government however maintained that, Heathrow’s connectivity would help London and the South East compete with other European cities for business investment, which in turn produces economic benefits for the rest of the UK. It also pointed out that Heathrow is on the

brink of suffering a decline in connectivity, as its runways are now operating at around 99 per cent capacity, which increases delays when flights are disrupted, and the risks competing European airports gaining destinations at Heathrow’s expense.

Furthermore, the government said that building a third runway would allow Heathrow airport to increase its connectivity, bringing £5.5billion of economic benefits over 2020-2080.

However, the British Chambers of Commerce has estimated that the economic benefits are £30 billion for the UK economy over the same time scale, and for every year the programme is delayed, it costs the UK between £900 million and £1.1 billion.

Despite the fall in passenger numbers caused by the global recession, supporters

of expansion argued that demand would increase again when the recession ends.

Some of the capacity added to Heathrow by the addition of a third runway could be used to re-instate or improve flight connections to UK cities, adding that several cities have seen their connections to Heathrow reduced or lost over recent years as airlines have reallocated the airport’s limited capacity to more profitable long-haul flights.

It added that a third runway would increase Heathrow’s resilience to disruption, and so reduce emissions from aircraft waiting to land.

Also, stressing that, construction would provide up to 60,000 jobs. While operating the expanded Heathrow would create up to 8,000 new jobs at Heathrow by 2030, with multiplier benefits to west London.

IATA predicts $12.7b global airlines’ profit in 2013 HE International Air Transport Association T (IATA) has announced that in 2013, airlines around the world will gain $12.7 billion in profit, a 20 per cent increase compared to the previous numbers projected in 2012.

According to IATA, the figure indicated optimistic expectations of the industry with regard to stronger development of the air transportation market in the upcoming several years.

The body added that throughout the first five months of 2013, the global air passenger traffic was further showing signs of a healthy recovery, climbing up by 4.5 per cent in comparison to the same period in 2012, it noted.

It stated recently in its air traffic result that

the Latin American and African markets had been growing over the projected period, which an average of 7.8 per cent and 7.96 per cent growth was observed in Latin America and Africa respectively.

Being in the top 3 of the fastest growing markets, IATA explained that the development of regional air transportation industries was based on strong performance of local economies.

It pointed that the development of the international air transportation in Africa was heavily influenced by the intensifying trade connections with Asia-Pacific, the United States of America (USA) and the Middle East.

However, IATA said that China has already

outrun the USA in becoming the largest trade partner of the African countries, with almost $200 billion worth of trade connections in 2012.

While in terms of market growth, it revealed the Asian-Pacific region along with Europe and North America still remain on the outskirts, as the growth in the international air passenger demand had been mostly supported by the emerging markets with the Middle East at the lead.

Furthermore, the body maintained that the ongoing market liberalisation, as well as the development of code-sharing agreements with airlines outside the region is continuing to boost air passenger flows across the Middle

East.

While the countries in the region are demonopolising and opening their aviation market, both local and foreign airlines, ground handlers as well as other industry players are spurring the competition thus creating a positive impact on the prices and quality of service, it added.

Furthermore, IATA said the successful implementation of such collaboration projects like the ones developed between South African Airways and Etihad Airways or Emirates and Qantas are also bringing more transit passengers to the region by contributing to an average of 12.6 per cent of the traffic growth during the first five months in 2013.

THE GUARDIAN, Thursday, July 19, 2013

46

FOCUS ON HI-TECH AUTO SERVICE CENTRES IN NIGERIA PART 1 Wanted: A Blueprint for Auto Service Centres HAT precise period, time or season is ideal for automobile owners and users to seek the attention of experts like automobile engineers to redress challenges that may develop in their vehicles?

The response obtained varies as it depends on the belief and economic background of the respondent concerned.

According to an automobile engineer Akor Joseph, servicing one’s car depends on the nature of the car and style of usage. While a new vehicle that is not subjected to rigorous usage may not need regular attention, the counterpart which is subjected to excessive usage apparently needs regular maintenance. The same fate affects fairly used (tokunbo) cars as no matter may be the appearance, the fact still remains that it has been used. Hence, needs comprehensive and adequate attention at all times.

However, with modern cars being imbued with high-tech facilities and gadgets these days, how does the traditional auto mechanics fit in or cope with the development when mostly they lack adequate mechanism to tackle these modern beasts on our roads.

In addition, how many car dealers operate service centre beyond 5pm? What happen to the stranded vehicle user that is probably without enough money to engage private towing vehicles or even may not be able to reach his mechanic or auto electrician as the case may be.

These days, we see several pot-holes on the highways with attendant petty thieves lurking to attack unfortunate victims of cars that developed problem. Experts believe that if only the government can provide street lights along the express roads, if government can create specialised technical schools that will use mother-tongue to train and re-train the traditional mechanics on the art of handling modern cars which they are not used to because such hi-tech cars did not exist at the time including aiding them with soft loans to set up qualitative auto service centres with high-tech gadgets, the ugly situation that we are witnessing at the moment will ameliorate tremendously.

W

Hi-Tech Auto Service Centre

ELIZADE CORPORATE IMAGE, BRAND AND PERSONALITY

LIZADE Nigeria Limited is a brain child of Chief E Ade –Ojo. The company evolved from a vision, apparently made manifest through divine favors but which chief Ade-Ojo readily accepted as a mission.

The dream that gave birth to Elizade started with the relationship between chief Ade Ojo and his wife, Mrs Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo, when they were undergraduates at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in the early 60s. Chief Ade-Ojo, who was studying Business Administration as one of the pioneer students of the course then had vowed to establish and run a business of his own within 10 years of his working life (he fulfilled that vow within six years).the name Elizade –coined from “Elizabeth” His wife’s first name and “Ade” his own middle name instantly struck him as a viable company name.

Thus, in 1968, only a couple of years after he left the university, Chief Ade-Ojo registered a business name, which he called Elizade Trading Stores. It was one of the first indigenous business names in Nigeria to have evolved from an inspiration triggered by nuptial union; that inspiration has

remained the main propelling force behind Elizade successes over the years.

It is worthy of note that this same foresight, determination, and self discipline which have ruled the relationship of the founding couple have also been the major pillars supporting the company’s continuous growth. Thus in a quick succession, Elizade Trading Stores, which handles General Textile Sales was followed with Elizade Independent Agencies (formed in 1971) with a focus on automobile marketing; the business expanded rapidly with Toyota as the main product.

From June 1973 (when the company was incorporated as Elizade Nigeria Limited) till date, Elizade has become the major dealer of Toyota vehicles and spare parts in Nigeria, this is a clear testimony that Nigerians are capable of pioneering successful enterprises; and decisive efforts has been made to reposition the company for fresh challenges in the years to come hence new branches are springing up in places like Port Harcourt, the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Asaba, Akure Uyo , Ibadan et al, in addition to the existing op office at Ogba, Lagos.

Little wonder that the name Ade-Ojo is synonymous with Toyota vehicles, such testimonies has earned him sobriquets such as Mr. Toyota, ekun

etc, research has also shown that out of every five vehicles on Nigerian roads, one of them is a Toyota! This general acceptance of Toyota vehicles known for comfort, durability and low fuel consumption has made Toyota a five star brand in Nigeria.

The company’s main operation include Sales and After Sales; the Sales department of the company handles the sales of all brands of fully tropicalised, made-for-Nigeria Toyota vehicles including Trucks, 4x4 vehicles and saloon cars, vehicles sold by the company are covered by warranty of Toyota Motor Corporation, Japan.

The company also maintains an all-embracing after sales support services aimed at retaining customer’s vehicles in show room condition for a very long time. This covers routine servicing, engine repairs, body work, painting and supplies of genuine parts. Elizade also has value added services like the; Early Bird services that allows customers with tight schedule to come in as early as 06.30 for routine services, Overnight services on special arrangement enables the customer to arrange for services after office hours, Satellite workshops to facilitate speedy services and easy access in terms of proximity and nearness to customers thus workshop services is available in all the branches and are equipped to handle all maintenance needs, a vehicle carrier is also available to facilitate rescue of customers vehicle in case of emergencies irrespective of the distance, the After Sales Department also provide a courtesy car for customers whose vehicles are undergoing repairs or who needs an urgent means of transportations, tracking services as a precaution against theft.

Automobile business can only be said to be successful when it has a good and credible after sales department to back its business. Elizade Nigeria Limited can be said to possess a state-of the art equipment to ensure prompt engine analysis and quick repairs. The engineers are highly experienced and are regularly trained locally and overseas to handle the latest Toyota technology, no matter the dent on your vehicle for instance, the body shop ensures the customer’s vehicle is back to a show room condition. The Spray Booth installed is of the latest technology and it is designed and equipped to achieve neat and perfect spraying aimed at transforming a vehicle into a new revelation even to the owner. The company’s spray painters and body engineers are trained with eyes for details.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 48

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

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FridayWorship

By Afis A. Oladosu In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent the Merciful “It is the month of Ramadan in which the Qur’an was revealed, a guidance for mankind …therefore, anyone of you who witnesses that month should fast therein, and whoever is ill or upon a journey shall fast a similar number of days later on. Allah intends your wellbeing and does not want to put you to hardship...

(Quran 2:185) RETHREN words cannot express the B depth of our gratitude to Allah who has spared our lives to witness this month, the blessed month of Ramadan; a month in which every breath we take has the reward of Tasbeeh, our sleep has the reward of worship, and our good deeds are doubly rewarded while our duas are accepted.” How might we begin to thank Allah for His mercies; how do we begin to count, as I once noted in this column, the uncountable. Al-Rasul says as follows: “O People! The month of Allah has come with His mercies and blessings. This is the month that is the best of all months in the eyes of Allah. Its days are the best of days, its nights are the best of nights, its hours are the best of hours. This is a month in which you have been invited by Him. You have been given the opportunity in this month to receive the honours from Allah, the Merciful” Brethren, I always consider this month as a training school. A school where we learn and re-learn core values we have forgotten; a school where we unlearn habits and traits we have inadvertently imbibed over time. Brethren Ramadan

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

In the school of Ramadan is also like a paradise. It is full of pleasures and opportunities.

Let us begin from the “beginning”: the most important consideration in embarking on fasting, as is the case with other acts of devotion in Islam, is to seek nearness to Allah; to seek His pleasure and Forgiveness. Thus a Muslim who fasts conscientiously, a Muslim who embarks on the fast of the elite in line with our suggestion last week would ultimately attain a status of piety. He would walk “with” and work “in” Allah. When a Muslim works in and walks with Allah, he becomes the beloved of Allah. The Prophet says that when a servant of Allah becomes the beloved of Allah, He, Allah becomes his hand with which he holds onto things.

Thus whatever he holds becomes strong; whatever he does becomes sanctioned by the Almighty. When a Muslim observes fasting and other extra acts of worships like nawafil, he becomes the beloved of Allah such that He, the Almighty becomes his tongue with which he talks. Thus whatever he says becomes encoded with Divine gravitas; his wishes become the wish of Allah.

Thus fasting during the month of Ramadan provides us all with the opportunity to examine our spiritual status. A Muslim who forsakes the pleasure of food and drinks and

embarks on this fasting, a Muslim who creates the conditions of hunger and thirst for himself, simply in obeisance to Allah, is actually and indirectly involved in sharpening his weapon of survival on the terrestrial earth where survival has become simply difficult if not impossible. Thus a Muslim who fasts is like a hunter who takes time off hunting in order to sharpen his weapon of hunt. Thus he who fasts becomes an unassailable and an inimitable fortress against the devil and its agents; you cannot be a beloved of Allah and still become a prey to earthly principalities.

Brethren through the act of fasting we create an artificial or temporary scarcity and want. This is meant to awaken us to the value of the bounties of Allah, which we often take for granted. This inculcates in us a spirit of gratitude and consequent devotion to Allah. After fasting during the day, we settle down at dusk to break our fast. The meal on our table should remind us of the perpetual scarcity and want in which some of our fellow human beings are presently steeped.

In other words, each morsel we put in our mouth during this month should remind us of the life of penury and want in which the Somalis are manacled.

That reminder should also inculcate in us the important ethic of moderation;

that the real pleasure of Allah’s bounties lies in moderation and restraint and not in over indulging; not in stuffing our stomachs with food and drinks.

In other words, dear Brethren, fasting is like a school in which the Muslim is expected to receive training and skills in endurance, perseverance and tenacity. Fasting teaches the Muslim he should not quit difficult situations; that the war is won not through resort to escapism. When we fast, when we forsake the luxuries which Allah has endowed us with, we are indirectly affirming the slippery nature and essence of this world; that in-between life of prosperity and austerity is a distance which is as long as the movement of our eyelids. A Muslim who fasts is preparing for possible changes in life; he is affirming that nothing in life is ever permanent.

Thus fasting, one of our teachers reminds us, develops in the Muslim the ideals of courage, fortitude, and a fighting spirit to surmount the heavy odds in life with a cool and tranquil mind. It sharpens our power of concentration and steels our will power and resolve.

Brethren, one of the challenges confronting us a nation is that we have leaders, rather dealers, with lax moral status. This country seems condemned to that abyss of bad governance and corruption. Ramadan comes every year

with that opportunity for our leaders, particularly those who are Muslims, to conquer their hedonistic and libidinous excesses. It provides the servant with the mechanism to overcome anger; it seeks to imbue us with self-control. Is it not true that the vigorous effort required to put up with hunger and thirst can well be extended to conquer other infirmities of human character that often lead to error and sin?

Brethren, fasting inculcates a spirit of tolerance particularly in the face of unpleasant conditions and situations.

Many people, when facing discomfort and deprivation, become irritable and annoyed. They then visit their anger on those around them. Fasting helps a man become more tolerant despite his own discomfort. The Prophet says when a Muslim who is fasting is abused he should say: “I’m Fasting”. Thus it instills in us the spirit of forgiveness towards others, as we seek forgiveness of Allah for our iniquities.

What about the importance of time management? As Muslims, Islam expects of us to replicate this ideal of the strict schedules we operate with during Ramadan in our wakeful moments.

Ramadan reminds us of the fact that everything in the cosmos is dated and timed; that to trifle with time is to trifle with our existence.

Brethren, in line with the comprehensive nature of Islam, Ramadan comes with a lot of health benefits. It cleanses our system of impurities and fortifies our organs against what medics refer to as “radicals.” It reenergizes our organs, sharpens our intellect and enhances our well-being. Make use of this opportunity; may it signal the beginning of many more of it our lives (aamin).

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FOCUS ON HI-TECH AUTO SERVICE CENTRES IN NIGERIA PART 1 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46 Elizade regards the availability of genuine parts as essential to her Toyota business, hence the company booats of a vast assortment of spare parts for all Toyota Models marketed by her.

Over the years Elizade Aftersales Department have won various awards, ranging from the best After Sales Service of the Year, Dealer of the Year, Spare Parts dealer of the Year and to mentioned but a few The company’s corporate Head office also known as Elizade Toyota Plaza is a six storey, multipurpose built edifice situated along Ikorodu Road, Lagos. It is centrally positioned for easy access on the main route between Lagos Island and Ikeja.

It also houses a double show room for vehicles display and reflects both Elizade’s loyalty to the Toyota business and its commitment to excellence.

As a grade A authorized Toyota Dealer, the company sells only “tropicalised”, made-for-Nigeria vehicles and maintains a vast depot of Toyota vehicles so that orders are met promptly and delivery is made without delay to any part of the country, consequently over the years the company has established a relationship of trust and confidence with its loyal customers. Once a vehicle is sold it is backed up with maintenance and total care, made possible by a culture of maintenance and complete care garnered over four decades.

Whatever model you buy, you can be rest assured that Elizade will always be there to help you achieve pleasant motoring experience all the time, for this the company has been richly rewarded with an unwavering loyalty from customers; and also have been a recipient of myriad

of awards from order corporate bodies.

Today Toyota is seen as a means by which users communicate their identity, little wonder the dictum “Think Toyota think Elizade” is very popular among several customers!

MANDILAS GROUP

HE foundation on which the T Mandilas Group was built in the 1940s is for the provision for a wide range of first-class internationally renowned products and services used in all spheres of life. At the time, the name Mandilas became synonymous with Volkswagen vehicles in Nigeria because Mandilas first introduced Volkswagen into the country in 1953 as the sole importer and distributor.

Having popularised Volkswagen vehicles through the network of sales and service facilities of its motor division; Mandilas a vital contributor to Nigeria’s industrialisation by initiating the setting up of the Volkswagen of Nigeria assembly plant near Lagos.

Following the closure of Volkswagen factory the division activities have changed and are predominantly concerned with sale and service of Toyota vehicle. The motor division is a successful part of the company and recently has its Lagos Island workshop accredited to the Toyota quality system .we are currently preparing our eight other branches to meet this requirement The Calabar office was officially opened in 2011 while Okomu office commenced operation in April 2012.we are by far the biggest dealer in Nigeria with 10 branches and quick service centres.

Dealer of the year march 2010 Toyota Nigeria held an award ceremony for dealer staff and Mandilas won best service manager ,Best service Team, Best part Manager, Best part Team, first runner up marketing manager ,second runner up customer service employee , March 2011; Mandilas again won an award from Toyota Nigeria for being first runnerup as a Toyota dealer of the year.

Over the years Mandilas have introduced certain concepts into the Nigerian market. First is their three or 100,000 km service plan offered by Mandilas, the first of its kind in the country. In addition, Mandilas introduced an innovation of establishing used cars department last year as part of the company’s effort in meeting the increasing demands of their customers.

The department is responsible for procuring and selling of fairly used certified vehicles from individuals and corporate bodies. Interestingly, used cars undergo a twenty check to ensure that they are in a good working order.

Another milestone achieved

by Mandilas is the introduction of S.A canopy which is a brand new `name in the Nigerian automobile industry.

This unique product which is principally used by pick-up vehicles such as Toyota, Mitsubishi, Ford, Nissan, Hyundai, Kia, Mahindra, Tata including but not limited to Isuzu. They appear in different designs to fit various models.

They are optional features on most features on most canopies such as high level, brake light, roof racks, Bull bars tow bars and polyurethane linings.

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Opinion How politicians exploit the police

By Paschal Onyiorah HERE is no doubt that the Nigeria Police T Force has suffered a fate worse than death in the course of our tortuous journey of nationbuilding so far. Starting from the time after the attainment of our political independence till date, the police in Nigeria has almost always been at the receiving end of the antics of Nigerian politicians, whether in uniform or in mufti.

For instance, in the first republic, during the Awolowo-Akintola political struggle for supremacy in the Western region that later snowballed into grave regional crisis, the Nigeria Police Force had received more than its fair share in bearing the brunt of that crisis. Consequently, not a handful of its officers deployed at the time to quell the raging crisis lost their precious lives for a cause they obviously knew nothing about. Arguably, even those of them who narrowly escaped death by whiskers and with various degrees of injuries did not in any way receive compensation. Understandably, however, though the Police was not alone in suffering this fate, yet the fact that they were attacked and killed while maintaining law and order at the behest of the then political leaders at the time and without necessarily receiving compensation afterwards, clearly shows the extent to which politicians could go in using men of the Nigeria Police to achieve their individual and group interest.

Similarly, apart from the pre-civil war exploitation of the Nigeria Police during which time they were used by the political leaders in military uniform for the ostensible purpose of bringing back the Biafran secessionist enclave into the Nigeria fold and which invariably occasioned unavoidable death of almost thousands of them, the series of events

masterminded by civilian politicians in the wake of the post-civil war period of second republic politicking further made nonsense of the value rate and respect for the Nigeria Police. Of course, recalling the litany of grueling storms weathered by men of the Nigeria Police in the hands of both the civilian and military politicians during the regime of General Ibrahim Babangida who himself was by no means less manipulative of the Force, there can hardly be enough to say about General Sani Abacha’s side of the same story of manipulation of the Police. For example, one still recalls the extent to which a celebrated moneybag and friend of the presidency, enjoyed the use and protection of men of the Nigeria police while haughtily flaunting his seemingly unbridled desire to impose upon the people of Anambra a female civilian governor of the state, via the feigned democratic ambience created at the time by his principal, General Sani Abacha.

But granted that the foregoing transpired during the military rule which in itself is an aberration, one had expected that the return of democratic leadership in 1999 would have either brought to an end or greatly reduced to the minimum the manipulative tendencies of Nigerian politicians towards men of the Nigeria Police Force. Unfortunately, the singular incident of abduction of Governor Chris Nwabueze Ngige of Anambah state on July 10, 2003 by a former Assistant Inspector General of Police, now late Mr. Raphael Ige, with full detachment of Police and under the watchful eyes of President Olusegun Obasanjo-led Federal Government shows that the exploitation of men of the Nigeria Police by politicians in an apparently democratic setting is one that

has exposed the helplessness and the plight of this set of regimented fellow compatriots, who rather than criticism deserve our sympathy at all time. To therefore blame the Nigeria Police or any of its men whenever politicians are locking horns with one another over their selfish interest that is often devoid of any connection with issues of welfare of the masses is, to say the least, the most uncharitable thing any keen observer of the politics of policing Nigeria would do.

Today, irrespective of the relatively giant strides recorded so far in our various attempts to widen the democratic space in virtually all ramifications, we are still confronted with this dangerous politics of policing Nigeria with its attendant consequences. Incidentally, the Ombatse group in Nasarawa State which was alleged to be responsible for the killing of scores of police and State Security Service officers is increasingly reported as being squarely enmeshed in the struggle for power with the Governor, Mr. Tanko Al-Makura, over the latter’s rumoured 2015 second term ambition and his alleged desire to dismantle all forms of quasi-political structure of the group, perceived or imagined, deemed to constitute possible threats or a cog in the wheel of the realization of his ambition.

And much as the veracity of all the media reports flying around in this regard is yet to be ascertained, it is outrageous that the precious lives of men of the Nigeria Police Force could be so cheaply taken in the twinkling of an eye on the grounds of alleged political ambition of the Governor and attempts to scuttle it by a group of individuals perceived to be his new political

detractors. This ugly development is not only preposterous but also deplorable.

At this juncture, the obvious need be stated that it is in no way less appalling that what we are beginning to see in Rivers State can hardly go for an entirely different scenario short of a replica of the political picture of the incident in Nasarawa State. In fact, be it Governor Amaechi’s alleged disrespect to President Goodluck Jonathan or his rumoured vice-presidential ambition that brought about the raging crisis in Rivers State or, perhaps, Honourable Nyesom Wike’s speculated 2015 gubernatorial aspiration that is fueling it, one thing both sides will do well to eschew is this usually bad attitude of Nigerian politicians or their proclivities to blame the hapless men of the Nigeria Police Force for their political misfortune or any form of setback arising from their poor political calculation. In clear terms, Governor Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi should strive to divest himself of negative tendencies towards resorting to calumnies or calls for the removal of the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Joseph Mbu, just because it pleases him to make this man a scapegoat in order to succeed in massaging his ego.

But be that as it may, the point must be made that there is nothing wrong for politicians to lock horns with one another as it clearly makes the fascinating part of the real politicking. But there is obviously a limit beyond which the involvement of the Police would be a negation to the law and the reasonably accepted rules of engagement. Therefore, Nigerian politicians must learn to respect men of the Nigeria Police Force and desist from expecting them to almost always do their biddings before they could be fairly judged or praised as doing well.

• Onyiorah, a journalist, writes from Abuja.

Distracting closure of Imo/Abia motor parks

By Chidimma Nwangwu UST as Enugu State was created out of the old Anambra State, Jthen, Abia State was created out of the old Imo State in 1991. Since Enugu and Anambra states have continued to enjoy cordial relationship despite the fact that the administration of the first civilian governor of Enugu State and former national chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo, immediately after assuming office, transferred all the workers of Anambra origin back to their state in order to create job opportunities for the indigenes of the new coal city state. Such cordiality has not manifested however between Abia and Imo, especially since the coming into office of Chief Rochas Okorocha as the governor of the state in 2011.

Recently, Gov. Okorocha paid a visit to Abia State Transport Line Park at Wetheral road Owerri, where he ordered the closure of the transport company’s park. The main public concern with the action is that he did not provide an alternative loading spot for them. In defence of his boss’ action, the Imo State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Chinedu Offor said the action of the governor was in line with government’s desire to beautify the state capital, Owerri. Several entreaties from the management of Abia Line Transport Company and others concerned to the governor to rescind the decision proved abortive. Rather, the Imo State government extended the same treatment to Peace Mass Transit Company and Rivers State Transport Company. After some weeks when the Imo State government was not ready to budge, the Abia State government, in what looked like a retaliation to Okorocha’s action, took similar action. The Chief of Staff to Abia State governor, Mr. Cosmos Ndukwe, announced the closure of Imo State Transport Company Parks in Umuahia and Aba. To many residents of the states, Okorocha’s action appeared suspicious coming at a time when the Abia State government just added 30 buses to the fleet of Abia Line Transport Company to ease public transportation within and outside, a development that has raised curiousity as to what prompted Okorocha’s action in the first place. Truly, there is nothing wrong in beautifying the state capital, but such exercise should not be against the interest of the majority of the people, especially the less privileged ones who are the major users of the state-owned transport facility because of its affordability. It could be recalled

that the Abia State government in order to reduce the regular traffic snarl being caused by the Imo Transport Company Park along Warri Street in the state capital, Umuahia has relocated the park to Mission Hill road just immediately after the roundabout. The Abia government did not close down the ITC Park, knowing that such action or policy will be anti-people. Why did Okorocha not adopt the same approach in the case of Abia Line Park, instead of the unfriendly and drastic approach he took?

Was it because ITC has been allegedly concessioned to a private company? Even if it is so, Okorocha’s action has definitely affected and might continue to haunt the concessionaire, the users of the company’s vehicles and the government. That ITC has been concessioned does not mean that Abia Line Company must also be concessioned. Abia and Imo are two different states with different priorities and requirements relating to government’s policies and programmes.

The importance of interstate mass transit scheme, whether government or private-driven, cannot be overemphasised in the country today, as it has made transportation not only easy, but affordable for the average Nigerian who cannot afford taxi for charter or air ticket to travel. Since the introduction of interstate mass transit scheme, commuters now have choices to make and most times, government’s mass transit company is cheaper and affordable. Did Gov Okorocha consider what the situation would be across the country, if other state governors, under the guise of beautifying their state capitals, close down parks of mass transit companies in their states without providing alternative for them?

Okorocha and Orji are elected state governors presumably pre-occupied with improving the well-being of their citizens, though on different political parties. Orji was there before Okorocha. There must be better ways or channels through which Okorocha can go about the issue without creating unnecessary acrimony. Even if the governors have personal grudges against each other, the closure of Abia Line Transport Park in Owerri is not the best way to vent them. There are better, mature and diplomatic ways demanding of the office of the executive governor to handle such matter instead of adopting a grandstanding that blows the citizens no good.

Obviously, Okorocha and Orji are not expected to have the same belief politically and otherwise, but such differences whatsoever should not affect the relationship between the two

states, taking into cognizance that it is the people that will bear the brunt at the end of the day. Anambra and Enugu have co-existed peacefully, despite that the state governors are elected on different political platforms. Abia and Imo should not be different. I believe that it was for this reason that Governor Orji before transferring the non-indigenous workers in the state, wrote to all his colleague governors in the southeast zone in advance intimating them of his plan and demanding the same from them. Till today, none of the state governors from the zone has debunked Orji’s letter to the effect. The best bet for Okorocha in this situation, if he has no ulterior motive, was to give the transport company time to relocate to an alternative base or at worst, provide one for them in the spirit of brotherhood, responsible and responsive government. Governance is about the welfare of the people and not that of the leaders alone. Every government’s decision has its positive and negative side, but when the negative side outweighs the positive, meaning that majority are adversely affected, such a decision needs to be reviewed. There is urgent need for Okorocha to review his government’s decision and embrace peace with his sister state. It is true that none of his aides or government functionaries or that of Gov. Orji uses the transport company, because the functionaries normally have official or personal cars. But what consideration is there for users of the vehicles in the transport company? How are they supposed to feel about the much-acclaimed people-oriented government in the state with this action?

Are the two governments and governors not aware that since the closure of Abia Line Transport Park in Owerri and the reprisal action in Umuahia and Aba, movement between the two states has not been easy as commuters are being exploited by other transporters who have cashed on the situation to exploit them. The lingering face-off between the two states over the closure of parks which was started by Imo State government is not doing and will never do anybody any good; rather it has added and will continue to add to the sufferings of the people in the states, especially when Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) call off their strike and the students rush back to schools.

The two governors concerned should immediately call off their bluff in the interest of the masses in the states.

• Nwangwu, an undergraduate, wrote from Owerri, Imo State.

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Opinion Akinkugbe, a medical colossus at 80

By Friday Okonofua th

ROFESSOR Oladipo Akinkugbe celebrated his 80 birthday P on July 17, 2013, in a simple style reminiscent of his humble and avant-garde disposition. As one of the most known and easily one of the few remaining doyens of medical research and training in Africa, one would have expected some noise to be made on this occasion that would be commensurate with the immense contributions he has made to national and international development. But he has chosen to be simple as a demonstration of his impeccable commitment to moderation, civility and societal piety. Professor Akinkugbe has been described in many ways: an emeritus professor of medicine (who became a professor at the age of 35 years, the youngest in Africa at the time), a national merit award winner, a recipient of several national and international awards, Foundation Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science, former Vice-Chancellor in two foremost Nigerian universities, an exemplary administrator with impeccable track record in service delivery, a social reformer, and a highly respected High Chief of Ondo Kingdom.

However, it is his patriotic commitment to excellence and pioneering leadership in medical research and service delivery that is the focus of this article.

There would be no single doctor in this country today who would not know or have not heard of Professor Akinkugbe. If there is one such doctor, perhaps he or she may not have studied medicine in this country or may have worked through the shadows without reading the books aright or knowing the historical evolution of medicine in Nigeria. Professor Akinkugbe is not only a teacher of teachers and a professor of professors, he is also the author of several textbooks in medicine that should have been read by any Nigerian doctor in his/her formative years. Unfortunately, I did not have the fortune of being taught by him in my undergraduate years, but he was a teacher I came to know and to respect while attending a different medical school from the University of Ibadan, where he taught. At Ibadan, he has taught many generations of medical doctors – including several that are in top leadership positions within and outside this country today.

As an undergraduate student at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), I can recall that the name of Professor Akinkugbe featured repeatedly in the lectures of one of our great teachers, Professor JJ Andy, who described to us the contributions he made to the understanding of the inimitable ways that hypertension presents in black Africans. As a postgraduate student, I also did not take up the discipline of internal medicine where Professor Akinkugbe made his mark. But as a postgraduate student specialising in obstetrics and gynae-

cology, I came across several references and documentations of his research contributions in the field of non-communicable diseases, a problem commonly faced by pregnant women in this country. In addition, my Aburo, Professor Ade Ajayi, who was doing his post-graduate studies in internal medicine at the time, cited him repeatedly in the many intellectual forays we often engaged in. To him, Professor Akinkugbe was simply the encyclopaedia in medical knowledge, a medical titan and icon whose voice was the living testimony to be believed and respected in any medical subject matter.

Somehow I cannot recall how we met, but I did eventually have the fortune to meet Professor Akinkugbe and to establish a life-time relationship that has come to define my attitude to the practice and teaching of medicine. I can say without equivocation that Professor Akinkugbe is one of the most profound, thoughtful, delectable and considerate senior colleagues I have had the privilege to work with. Since I have known him – now running into nearly 20 years, I have studied him closely and learnt several lessons from him. The first lesson is the importance of dispassionate mentorship in building the next generation of leaders. Nigeria is a country where mentorship has not been well structured and where it can sometimes be self-serving. Often, the reason that people seek to mentor others is to derive some future benefits from the mentee, which if not forthcoming would lead to a breakdown in the mentor-mentee relationship. What has come to be known as “godfather” is a euphemism for mentorship within our cultural experience. As we now know, this relationship has broken down in several instances in this country simply because the godfather (or mentor) often expects immediate beneficial returns from the mentee, which often the mentee is unable to provide. In the nearly 20 years that Professor Akinkugbe has acted as my mentor, he has done so without any reward, and not demanding any reward. His mentorship has included several recommendations made for me to high profile opportunities within and outside the country, which in many cases he hardly remembers. I am also aware that he offered the same type of committed and patriotic mentorship in support of several successful Nigerian leaders, the names of whom I would not mention here for ethical reasons. I have imbibed this approach to mentorship from him, an approach I now recommend to others. At the end of the day, this type of mentor gains more in terms of being able to create a generation of committed followers able to foster his/her vision and ideas. Those who work on mentees from the reward perspective will soon find out that such mentees will not be there for them when the real time comes.

The second lesson I have learnt from Professor Akinkugbe is the need to be a professor of ideas and to focus on dispensing

those ideas in perpetuity. Increasingly, there is a tendency for some of those referred to as professors in this country not to advance specific ideas, and to revert to academic indolence and passivity while seeking political opportunism the moment they are made professors. Being a professor then becomes a hiding point for latent mediocrity and deficit of foresight. By contrast, Professor Akinkugbe has remained a foremost researcher in his discipline, advancing and pioneering new knowledge, teaching new concepts and learning new and emergent ways of doing things. He has completely abstained from politics, believing that this would limit his ability to associate with all persons in dispassionate and objective manner. Those who know him can attest to his currency of scientific knowledge, his frontline leadership in the international medical literature, and his respect for the application of modern research principles and knowledge in the administration of Nigeria’s health care system. It is for this reason that he remains one of Africa’s most visible scientists respected internationally for his focus on research and scientific discourse in the field of non-communicable diseases.

Another lesson I have learnt from my knowing the man Akinkugbe is the need to diversify interests beyond one’s primary profession. In my association with him, I have come to respect him for his deep mastery of history, fine and applied art, economics, law and architecture, aside from his primary interest in medicine. His writings and presentations are often laden with multi-disciplinary illustrations and quotations, and they are often unique in bringing out the commonality and oneness of the human experience. This vast knowledge has enabled him to make meaningful and profound contributions to national and societal development in more ways than one. Medical professionals are noted for their propensity to work in silos and to be limited by their everyday engagement with health matters.

This, in some ways can narrow their horizon and may prevent them from broadening the scope of their social interaction. I have learnt from Professor Akinkugbe that this need not be the case and that a cosmopolitan learning and disposition can enrich the human mind and promote the integration of one’s experiences into the overall development process.

To conclude, Professor Akinkugbe is a man of many parts: a humanist, a patriot, a visionary, a mentor to successive generations of Nigerian academicians, and one of the most profound medical researchers and principled practitioners of all time.

The entire nation ought to join me in wishing him and his family a wonderful birthday celebration, and many happy returns of the day.

• Okonofua is Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Benin.

NAFDAC’s input to emerging democracy dividends

By Martins Ikhilae PPOSITION and critics of the Dr. Goodluck O Ebelle Jonathan-led administration in Nigeria had better have a rethink. This is in view of the fact that contrary to the incessant non-performance accusation heaped on the President, a lot is being silently achieved in an attempt to garner numerous democracy dividends for the Nigerian citizenry. Remarkably, the inroads and monumental landmark achievements being made in the nation’s health sector by the National Agency for Food, Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) could be regarded as part of the applaudable dividends of the current democratic dispensation.

Comparatively, just as the emergence of Dr. Jonathan drew a lot of criticisms owing to his perceived minority Ijaw status in the larger national geopolitical power calculus, so also was the emergence of Dr. Paul B. Orhii, a minority of the Tiv extraction in the Middle Belt. Retrospectively, such was the opposition against Dr. Orhii candidacy as a very competent and suitable replacement for the out-gone NAFDAC’s Chief Executive, Professor Dora Akunyili that it became evident that those at the fore front of these campaigns were unpatriotic, self-centred ethnic jingoists. These individuals were undeterred in their nefarious acts as they engage both local and foreign media as well as even the nation’s judicial institutions in their campaigns.

In spite of this, Mr. President refused to yield his ground. Today, the nation is better for it.

Had the President balked, Nigerians would have been denied the sterling dividends, which they now enjoy from this sector. Unsurprisingly, the NAFDAC helmsman has true to his promise refused to betray the confidence reposed in him both by the presidency and Nigerians as demonstrated by his fearless, documentable and applaudable achievements at the agency which has today made him the “cynosure of all eyes”.

Aside successfully securing the adoption of emerging sophistications in technological paraphernalia for anti-pharmaceuticals counterfeiting, which has empowered consumers to independently detect and discard fake, counterfeited or cloned drugs, series of dynamic and pro-life elongating achievements have indeed been recorded by this sleepless Orhii-led NAFDAC management team.

Just recently, another “feather was added to his cap” when the agency secured a court conviction against the previously seeming untouchable producers of the much publicized killer teething mixture known as “My Pikin”, which killed 89 Nigerian children. This, of course, is in addition to other several court convictions also recorded by NAFDAC in drugcounterfeited offences and cases between 2009 to date, a positive development that confers on Dr. Orhii the status of a premier NAFDAC chief executive to have achieved this feat since the agency’s inception.

Interestingly, efforts are underway to ensure that a sizeable aspect of assets forfeited by convicted drug counterfeiters are channeled towards compensating victims of the heinous act. Already, the agency, under its current leadership, has shown that it has adopted iron cast determination to leave “no stone unturned” while sustaining its ‘zero’ per cent tolerance towards the prevalence of counterfeited pharmaceuticals in Nigeria as evidenced in its recent extension of cooperation to non-governmental organisations (NGOs) nationwide with a view to stemming the tide of pharmaceutical products counterfeiting.

NAFDAC’s sustained battle against die-hard counterfeiters of pharmaceutical products is being locally and internationally acknowledged, which is unarguably another democracy dividend on its own. This is in spite of the fact that the agency is making frantic moves to unveil novel strategies and solutions targeted towards providing backups to those already in existence.

The driving force behind these stellar innovations cannot be likened to “a prophet without honour at home” because recently President Jonathan honoured him with the award of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). There have been other appreciation and awards.

Of profound interest is that international recognition has also come his way. Recently, on June 24, 2013 Dr. Orhii bagged the Award

of Special Congressional Recognition in far away United States of America. It was an endorsement orchestrated by a notable American Congress woman, Janice Hahn; and the presentation was made at a well-attended reception held in the James Madison Hall at the historic Capitol Hill, Washington D.C. Interestingly, of the numerous dividends earned from the committed services so far rendered to Nigeria by this illustrious son of ours are: elongation of Nigerian’s life span via boosting of life expectancy status; guaranteeing employment opportunities for the citizenry through enhanced patronage of indigenously produced pharmaceuticals; restoring public confidence in our indigenous healthcare services, as well as conserving and boosting foreign exchange earnings for the nation by encouraging patronage for local health services.

One of the intrinsic dividends of all these efforts and initiatives is a leap in the status and reputation of Nigeria in the comity of nations as a nation committed to the cause of ensuring that only standardized and genuine pharmaceuticals are provided for the people. Through standardization of healthcare provision, the brain drain syndrome that has remained a big worry in the sector is checked, while the right and proper health services are within the reach of all irrespective of financial and societal status.

Nigerians are probably yet to see the best of Dr. Paul Bortwev Orhii.

• Ikhilae is a Lagos based public affairs analyst.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

NigeriaCapitalMarket NSE Daily Summary (Equities) as at 18/7/2013 PRICE LIST OF SYMBOLS

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NSE Daily Summary (Equities) as at 18/7/2013

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Shareholders laud Presco’s N11.3b turnover, approve N1b dividend for 2012 Stories by Helen Oji hAREhOLDERS of Presco Sproposal Plc, yesterday approved by the board of the company to pay a dividend of N1.00 per share, amounting to N1billlion for the year ended December 31, 2012.

For the period under review, the company recorded a turnover of N11.3billion as against N8.5billion in the previous year.

Addressing shareholders during the company’s 2012 yearly general meeting yesterday, Chairman of Presco Plc, Pierre Vandebeeck, explained that profit after tax increased to N3.5billion from N1.778billion attained in the previous year.

According to Vandebeeck’s statement, the 2012 performance can be described as “very good”, adding that the company “continues to reap the benefit of its expansion programme”.

Explaining further, he said: “The Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB) production for the year was 125,481MT compared to 109,11MT in the previous year.

In addition, 2012 was an exceptional year as Presco received 34,830MT Fresh Fruit Bunches from its sister company, Siat Nigeria Limited. The cumulative figure for FFB processed comes to 160.311MT resulting in higher Crude Palm Oil (CPO) production of 33.375 tons”. he told shareholders that the company’s host communities development programme continued during the year under review, pointing out that the focus is on education, roads, water and electricity infrastructure.

Vandebeeck said: “We enjoyed very cordial relationship with the host communities as usual.

We are committed to Research and Development and devote each year more resources to this activity.

Indeed, we are together with our international partners at the forefront in the development of improved oil palm and rubber planting materials which aims at selecting strains adapted to our soil and weather and with

increasing yield per planted hectare”.

The Chairman, Onitsha zone shareholders’ association, Goodluck Akpore, commended efforts by the board and management of Presco Plc to boosts the company’s

operations. he said shareholders were particularly impressed with the company’s growth plans and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) which he described as very impressive.

The secretary to Edo state government, Prof Julius Ihonvbere at a pre yearly general meeting’s cocktail organised for shareholders on Wednesday pledged to give the company all necessary support to succeed.

IOD tasks capital market operators on corporate governance principles hE Institute of Directors T Nigeria (IOD) has stressed the need for operators in the Nigerian capital market to comply with corporate governance principle in the market to enhance accountability and facilitate market growth.

The President of the institute, Chief Eniola Fadayomi, while addressing stockbrokers during a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Stock Exchange in Lagos yesterday, explained that the institute is partnering with the Exchange to strengthen the level of corporate governance in the market

to make it more credible and attract the needed investment to grow the economy.

She lauded the management of the NSE for enforcing strict compliance of corporate governance in the market, while assuring them that the institute would not relent on its efforts of developing credible directors that would become good drivers of corporate governance in their various corporate organizations and financial institutions they represent.

“Ours in IOD is to develop directors that will be drivers

of corporate governance in their organizations and quoted companies because these companies are open for public scrutiny and accountability.

“We express our appreciation through the NSE Chief Executive Officer, Oscar Onyema for enforcing corporate governance in the Exchange to foster a seasoned growth. Outside are now seeing the Exchange as a credible institution and our confidence in you are growing.

“We partner with the

Exchange because they are dealing with companies run by directors who are our members. Corporate governance is a profitable venture because when people believe in you, they will do business with u.”

She attributed non-compliance of corporate governance principle as one of the major causes of the recession, adding that the institute has resolved to strengthen the partnership in order to make the issue of credibility become stronger in the market.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

Sports NNL moves to curb match-fixing, orders simultaneous matches

Accolades for Amaechi as Jonathan commissions PTF legacy in Abuja From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja T was all praises for the IAmaechi-led Governor Rotimi Chibuike Presidential Task Force (PTF) for the qualification of the Super Eagles for the South Africa 2010 World Cup yesterday in Abuja, as President Goodluck Jonathan commissioned the N337 million Nigeria Football House.

The edifice was built and donated to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) by the PTF from the remnants of funds it received during the campaign for the qualification and participation of the national team at the competition.

Commissioning the 27office apartment, which was named after the first indigenous chairman of the Nigeria Football Association (NFA), Sunday Dankaro, President Jonathan, who was represented by the Vice President, Namadi Sambo, praised the foresight and courage of the PTF in taking the decision to use part of the funds it received for the national assignment to build the football house, stressing that the edifice would serve as a catalyst for better football administration and greater achievements in Nigeria.

While urging football administrators to emulate the feat performed by the PTF, the president assured that his administration will continue to fulfill all the agreements of sports stakeholders at the Presidential Sports Retreat organised early this year to seek the way forward for sports development in the country, adding that no effort will be spared until the objectives are achieved.

“It is my great pleasure of being here today to commission the nation’s football house, which marks a very significant milestone in football development and administration in the country. Coming soon after the spectacular performance of our Super Eagles at the AFCON 2013 and resurgence at several areas of our football, I recall that while submitting its final reports on the qualification and participation of the Super Eagles at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, the Presidential Task Force on FIFA 2010 World Cup, sought approval to utilize the balance of the money they realised to build a befitting secretariat for the NFF. “While approving the request, I was convinced that the PTF would deliver a worthy project. I commend the chairman, and members of

the PTF, not only for their foresight in taking such decisions, but also for the scheduled completion of the project.

“Indeed, the significance of what we are seeing here today goes far beyond the physical structure to for the transformation of football and other sporting activities in the country. This edifice will serve as a catalyst for a better football administration and greater achievement in the country.”

Earlier, the PTF Secretary and former Director General of he National Sports Commission (NSC), Patrick Ekeji, who explained the reason behind the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s decision to set up the Task Force, noted that even though the Super Eagles did not do so well at the World Cup, the result of the presidential intervention has yielded the positive dividend through the construction of the new NFF secretariat by the PTF. Ekeji said, “it appropriate to mention here those whose idea s led to the emergence of the PTF, It was the ideas of the then presidential spokesperson, Segun Adeniyi, who along with the then ADC of president Yar’Adua, now Brigadier General Mustafa, who sold the concept of establishing the PTF to the president. You recall that in 2006, Nigeria failed to be at the World Cup in Germany, and in 2010, the way our national team was going, it was obvious that something extraordinary had to be done to ensure that Nigeria qualified to be in South Africa, which hosted the World Cup for the first time in the history of football in Africa.

While praising the efforts of the PTF in ensuring that Nigeria qualified for the World Cup in 2010 on an African soil, Minister of Sports and Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bolaji Abdulahi noted that the Task Force did not only develop a laudable idea of moving the NFF out of rented buildings, but was able to meet up with its scheduled date of handing over the secretariat.

His words, “for a country like Nigeria, we know what ordinarily would have happened to that kind of fund.

But the PTF, under the leadership of Governor Rotimi Amaechi, decided to use it to put in place a permanent and befitting secretariat for the NFF so that they can enter into an apartment that belongs to them. And that is what we have seen here today.

ETERMINED to nip in the D bud acts capable of dragging the image of the Nigeria League to the mud, the Nigeria National League (NNL) has ordered that the last two matches of the current season be played simultaneously across the country.

Chairman of the League Board, Emeka Inyama, who revealed this yesterday in Abuja said that the decision is to guard against alleged incidences of match-fixing that always occur at the end of the season.

According to him, the incidence of match-fixing will be curbed if the matches are played at the same time across the nation, pointing out that teams get desperate to win at times like this.

The NNL boss also disclosed that his board would make public, names of match officials for each of the remaining two matches, three days to the match date to ensure there were no inhibitions to a free and fair officiating at different centres.

Neros boss wants Nanka XI to win Peter Obi Unity Cup Gambo Mohammed is expected to lead Super Eagles’ attack against Cote d’Ivoire in Abidjan…next week.

Kano targets top spot at National Weightlifting Championship ANO State has declared its K preparedness to do well at the National Weightlifting Championship billed to kick off on July 29 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The state’s Sports Commissioner, Prof. Umaru Farouk, said yesterday that the state was not just going to Uyo to participate, but to win medals.

According to Farouk, the target of the state is to improve on her performance at last year’s Eko 2012 National Sports Festival, where the state won two

bronze medals.

“We are going to Uyo and we are going to do well in the national championship. The director of sports has assured us that our lifters are ready and we hope to win more medals and improve on our Eko 2012 showing,” Farouk said.

The commissioner said the state was not only paying attention to football, but supporting the growth and development of other sports.

“For us here in Kano, its not just football that we pay attention to. We encourage

other sports and we will give our athletes the needed support to do well in national and international competitions.”

The National Weightlifting Championship is billed to run from July 29 to August 3 in Uyo with all the 36 states of the federation participating.

The Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF) says all arrangements have been concluded for a hitch free championship, which is the first programme on the calendar of the new weightlifting board inaugurated two months ago.

South Africa 2014 CHAN Qualifier

NOA mobilises support for Eagles against Elephants in Abidjan HE National Orientation T Agency (NOA), the government organ charged with redirecting the patriotic fervour of the average Nigerian on the right path, was at the Super Eagles’ training session at the FIFA Goal Project site, Abuja, where it told the team to be rest assured of total support in Abidjan when they meet the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire on July 27.

The NOA was led to the early morning training session by its Director General, Mike Omeri, who was accompanied by several aides, including his media aide, Paul Odenyi.

Speaking at the occasion, Omeri praised the resilience of the national team, which he said led to victory at the 2013 Nations Cup in South Africa and urged the home based professionals to sustain the tempo by defeating the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire in the return leg, final qualifier for CHAN in Abidjan.

“There are millions of other Nigerians yearning for opportunities like you have and they may even be better than you but God has chosen you. We must, therefore, show gratitude by not only doing well, but giving our all at all times when we are donning our

national colours,” he said, while promising that the team’s recent bonus issues were being addressed at the highest level.

After making a donation of unspecified amount to the team, Omeri announced that Nigerian flags would flood Abidjan through the Nigerian Supporters Club and the NOA on match day.

Responsding, Eagles Captain, Chigozie Agbim said the team was in the right frame of mind to excel against the Ivoirians and assured the NOA leadership and Nigerians that the team will not let the nation down.

HE Managing Director T and Chief Executive Officer of NEROS Pharmaceuticals Limited, Poly Emenike has charged Nanka XI FC to win the first edition of Governor Peter Obi Unity Cup, meant for all the communities/towns in Anambra State.

Speaking to the team, which recently qualified to represent Orumba North Local Government Area in the state level of Governor’s Cup,” Emenike said, “it will also please me to see my town beat Ajalli in the local government final and play in the final of the state level.”

The local council final holds today.

Also speaking to the team, President General of Nanka Patriotic Union, Damian Okoye has called on all Nanka indigenes to come out en-mass today at NEROS Sports Stadium to cheer the town to victory over Ajalli town.

To reach the council final, Nanka defeated Ndiowu Town 4-0 in their first game, overcame hard fighting Awgu 4-2 on penalties after full and extra time ended 1-1.

The team manager of Nanka team, Uche Ezechukwu, alongside one of the officials of the team, Joe Mohale Ezenwegbu, promised that the Coach, Neze Ezenwata tutored Nanka team will do the town proud.

A sports consultant, who is also a Nanka indigene, Akonam Obiefuna expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance so far having scored five goals in two matches with Odinaka Ezeilo having accounted for three of them.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

SPORTS 59

2013 Taekwondo World Championship

Chukwumerije brothers battle for medals at Mexico

By Olalekan Okusan HE Chukwumerije brothers – Chika and Uche – will today battle for medals at the 2013 Taekwondo World Championships holding in Puebla in Mexico.

The seven-day tournament is being organised by the World Taekwondo Federation (WTF) with hundreds of athletes drawn from more than 120 countries jostling for medals in 16 events.

Chika, Team Nigeria captain to the London 2012 Olympics, will compete in the men’s +87kg heavyweight category alongside London Olympics silver medalist, Gabon’s Anthony Obame, who is seeded number one in the division.

Also, the tournament will afford the 2008 Beijing Olympics bronze medalist the opportunity to confront his conqueror in London, Cuba’s Robelis Despaigne.

T

Chika is rated ninth while the Cuban is seeded number two.

With 13 athletes seeded in the category, 50 of them will jostle for medals in the division.

Uche, who was the captain of the taekwondo team to the 2011 All Africa Games in Mozambique, will contend with other 54 athletes in the category.

The All Africa Games gold medallist, who claimed silver at the 2013 Swiss Open recently, is seeded ninth in the men’s -87kg cadre with other 13 athletes listed in the seeding.

Over 54 athletes will take to the ring today when action begins in the -87kg division.

Meanwhile, Usman Sulaiman, who competed in the men’s -58kg failed to progress beyond the first round of the tournament.

Despite this setback, the 2011 All Africa Games bronze

medalist, who claimed a gold medal in his first outing at the National Sports Festival (NSF) for Kano, believes he has the wherewithal to represent Nigeria at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games in Brazil.

The President of World Taekwondo Federation (WTF), Chungwon Choue, has stated that he expects Puebla 2013 to be the “best Taekwondo event ever,” as in his opinion, the conditions in Puebla “are even better than in the London 2012 Olympics.”

Choue wanted also to highlight the impressive numbers that the competition holds, with 146 countries and almost 900 athletes involved.

Nigeria’s Chika Chukwumerije (right) fights Cuba’s Robelis Despaigne during their match in men’s +87kg event at the 2012 Summer Olympics, in London. PHOTO: AP

NSC, Federations meet over Commonwealth Games’ preparations From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja HE National Sports T Commission (NSC) yesterday kicked off its preparations for the Scotland 2014 Commonwealth Games when it met with the leadership of all the sports federations to deliberate on how to ensure that Nigeria improved on its medals haul at the games.

Nigeria participated in seven sports at the last Commonwealth Games in India and won a total of 35 medals from four sports, including athletics, wrestling, weightlifting and para-sports. It failed to win medals in boxing, table tennis and badminton.

Speaking while declaring open the meeting at the velo-

• Minister wants boxing, table tennis to justify inclusion drome of the Abuja National Stadium, the Minister, Bolaji Abdulahi reminded the federation chairmen that the NSC had decided to ensure that Nigeria improved on its medal haul at the games, stressing that only those sports with medals-winning potential would be listed for the games.

He urged the federations’ leaders to come up with ideas on how to ensure a better participation for Nigeria, noting that the meeting was not an inquisition on the federations, but an exercise to look for the way forward hence he also invited the members of Nigeria Olympics Committee (NOC), as well other stake-

Nigeria’s Imeh bows out of ITF Junior Circuit in South Africa

By Olalekan Okusan IGERIA’S sole flagbearer at the International Tennis Federation (ITF)-sanctioned junior circuit, tagged Wanderers tournament, Joseph Imeh, yesterday bowed out of the tournament holding at Wanderers Sports Club North Road, Johannesburg in South Africa.

Imeh, who was single-handedly sponsored by his Coach, Abel Ubiebi, started his campaign in the first round when he defeated South Africa’s Badenhorst Hubert 6-3, 7-5 to berth in the second round.

But yesterday, he he lost to the competition’s number

N

Joseph Imeh…after a recent match in Lagos

Igali preaches fairness in E.K Clark wrestling championship

By Gowon Akpodonor S wrestlers from 27 states A of the federation prepare to storm Warri, Delta State for the median edition of E.K Clark National Wrestling Championship, former wrestling champion, Daniel Igali, has urged the participants to compete with pride and honour.

The E.K Clark Wrestling championship will run from July 24 to 27 in Warri.

The championship, which is being organised by the Delta State Wrestling Association in conjunction with the Wrestling Federation of Nigeria (WFN), will witness fights in various weight categories. It is meant to honour one of South-South’s elder statesmen, E.K Clark, for his contribution to the growth of the sports in the state and the region as a whole.

President of the Nigeria Wrestling Federation, Daniel Igali, who is also the director of organisation of the championship, commended Delta State government for provid-

ing the enabling environment as well as facilities to host wrestlers from across the country.

Igali said he was impressed with the preparations and facilities on ground for both officials and the wrestlers, just as he called on participants to compete with pride and honor.

For his part, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Elder Najite Kuejubola, has assured the participating teams of smooth and fun-filled championship, stating that E.K Clark has promised to make the championship a memorable one for wrestlers and officials that will participate in the championship.

The four-day wrestling championship will take place at the Brown Hill Event centre in Warri, with Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan as guest of honour. E.K Clark is the special guest of honour, while the Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Victor Ochei, is the chief host.

two seed, Botha Trent 6-2, 6-2 to exit the championship.

Also in the doubles event, he partnered a South African but they were not also successful.

According to Coach Ubiebi, Imeh really put up a good performance having beaten his opponent in the first round, adding that with more exposure, the player could compete favourably with other top players in the world.

“I want to say that our players need to get more exposure. I suffered before I could raise some money for us to be part of the championship. It was through the goodwill of friends and my little resources that we were able to feature in the tournament.

holders.

“The reason for our meeting here now is to ensure that we start our preparations early and deliberate on our approach to the Commonwealth Games. This is not going to be another jamboree, we are going to ensure that every single sport that goes to the Commonwealth Games has a chance of winning medals for Nigeria. That is why we are throwing it open to give all sports federations the opportunity to defend what we have here. That is why we involved the members of the NOC and other stakeholders in the meeting to help review all that will be presented here today and make contributions.

“I was reading a report from the NOC president on the last

Commonwealth Games in India; we came back with a total of 35 medals from athletics, wrestling, weightlifting and parasports.

“Only four out of the seven sports that were taken to the games returned with medals.

There are other sports that did not return with any medal. They include able tennis, badminton and boxing.

This time, we want to ensure that only those who have medals prospect will be registered for the games.

“So this is an opportunity, especially for boxing and table tennis, to justify why they should be included in the list of sports for the games this time, considering the fact that they were there the last time and they did not win any medals,” the minister said.

Football, golf take centre stage at Osun Osogbo festival

By Adeyinka Adedipe OVERS of sports will be treated to the best of football, Ayo and golf at this year’s edition of the Osun Osogbo Festival, which final phase begins on August 8.

According to a programme released by the organisers on Tuesday, the quarter-final games will hold on August 8, the semifinal of the football event will take place on August 10 while the third place and final games will take place

L

Nigeria’s Sinvie Boltic (left) fights against Canada’s Korey Jarvis in the men’s 96kg at IG Sports Complex during the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India.

on August 13.

Also the Ataoja Golf Competition will hold at the MicCom Golf and Country Club in Ada, Osun State on August 17. The Golfers would get to meet each other and the organisers at a cocktail nite, which would take place the night before the competition.

According to a member of the main organising committee, Jimoh Braimoh, the football competition is meant to draw the youths nearer to the festival while also rewarding their hardwork on the pitch.

He also stated that deserving teams and players would be rewarded, while urging them to be good ambassadors of their teams.

He said, “what we intend to do is to use football as a tool to bring the youths nearer to the event because they would surely be the custodian of the festival in the future.”

Braimoh said the golf competition would enable the orgainsers reach out to the elite in the society with a view of getting more sponsors for the festival, while the game of Ayo would bring together players who are adept in the native game.

THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

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SchoolSports Nestlé takes athletics to primary schools in Nigeria Stories By Olalekan Okusan HEN Nestlé became the W main sponsor of the biggest grassroots sports

An athlete competing at the last Lagos State Sports Festival tagged Ibile Games held at Teslim Balogun Stadium. Inset: Managing Director, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Dharnesh Gordhon, hopes the launching of the Kids’ Athletics Programme would help to churn out future stars for Nigeria.

development programmes in the world in 2012, it is intended to improve the health and well being of children through improved coordination and cognitive development.

For five years, Nestle will finance the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF)-organised Kids’ Athletics Programme, which by the end of 2011 had reached a cumulative audience of 1.5 Million kids across 100 territories.

With the poor outing of Team Nigeria at the just concluded IAAF World Youth Championship in Ukraine; the Nestle/IAAF Kids’ Athletics Programme is coming at the right time, when the country is in dire need of a well-coordinated exercise that will throw up athletics stars.

As the programme takes off in Nigeria on July 25, the Managing Director of Nestle Nigeria Plc, Dharnesh Gordhon, believes it would expand the scope of athletics and athletics-related activities for children of primary school age, as well as identifies and

Milo Secondary School Basketball Championship Fallout

Our coach instilled confidence in us, MVP, Faniran, admits oT many basketball fans N present at the Indoor Hall of the National Stadium in Lagos, believed International School, Lagos (ISL) can recover easily to beat Benue’s St. Joseph Secondary School, Makurdi, in the final of this year’s Milo Secondary School Basketball Championship.

But the most valuable player (MVP) of the tournament, Boluwasope Faniran, believes the feat achieved by the team was made possible by the singular effort of their coach, Ernest Ijeoma, who was an inspiration to them throughout the championship.

“This feat would not have been possible without the support and motivation of our coach. Coach Ijeoma is the best because he took us like his children. He made his mind known to us and we understood him very well and this alone made up to go out there and won the trophy for him. We might not be the best team in the competition, but the team spirit in the team

coupled with cheer determination of all us were secrets that earned us the victory,” Faniran said.

The 17 year-old added: “Even when our opponent was leading by 10 points, our coach kept telling us that we can do it. And he believed so much in us that he never scolded us even when we were not doing what he wanted us to do. For us, we knew we cannot lose the match despite the overwhelming lead because even with two minutes to the end of the game, we can never give up. This is a virtue that Coach Ijeoma has imbibed in us that is even robbing off on our academics. So for me, finishing my education at ISL with this title, the memory will remain with me forever.”

Faniran however, admitted that combining basketball with academics was a Herculean task, which he said he fins hard to cope with. But with the support from the school coupled with the understanding of his parents,

he was able to marry the two.

“I featured in the tournament in 2011 and I missed out from the team in 2012, while I returned to the team this and now that I am passing out, it is a good feeling ending on a

high note. For me this year championship brought out the best in all the teams and I think, our opponent gave us a tough time but at the end of the day, we came out victorious,” Faniran said.

The activation of Kids’ Athletics Programme marks a crucial step forward for kid’s sports development in Nigeria. It was developed because the participation of sport and physical activities among children are on the decline, especially in Nigeria recruit young talents from primary school.

The project is in tandem with Nestlé’s Healthy Kids Programme in Nigeria, which has so far reached over 15,000 pupils in Lagos, ogun and oyo states.

According to Gordhon, among the objectives of programme is to make athletics the number one sport in schools; educate kids into sport in general and athletics in particular and thus promote a balanced and healthy lifestyle, while it would also attract as well as sustain the potential sporting stars of tomorrow.

For him, the programme is not intended only for clubs and member federations but also for schools and all institutions that are interested in the well being of children.

With the Minster of Sports/Chairman, National Sports Commission (NSC), Bolaji Abdullahi flagging off the programme at opebi Model Primary School, Ikeja, Lagos, the Nestle boss disclosed that it would be implemented in partnership with the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), a body that has been promoting the development of athletics in schools.

“The Nestlé/IAAF Kids’ Athletics programme will also ensure a steady and sustainable policy of development of the sport of athletics by introducing children to athletics at a basic level. The

Captain of Benue’s St. Joseph’s Secondary School, Sam Okwuche, tries to beat his counterpart from International School, Lagos (ISL), Egima Obioh, during final of this year’s Milo Secondary School Basketball Championship held at the National Stadium in Lagos…recently. PHOTOS: FEMI ADEBESIN-KUTI

sponsorship will further boost the programme allowing IAAF to organise additional courses for lecturers and coaches and eventually to reach a larger number of children. IAAF will train Kids’ Athletics lecturers, kids’ athletics coaches and introduce primary school pupils to the programme,” he said.

He added: “The programme aims to popularise athletics in six areas through a programme of several competitions called “A Team Event for Children”, which comprises of three event groups: Sprinting/Running Event Group, Jumping Event Group and a Throwing Event Group.

The programme targets three age categories - 7-8 years, 9-10 years and 11-12 years. The project is expected to expand the scope of athletics and athletics-related activities for children of primary school age, as well as identify and recruit young athletic talents from the first primary school years upwards.”

“The Nestlé-IAAF Kids’ Athletics is practical and easy to organize because, from the outset of the programme, the intention was to create an athletics system that could be implemented everywhere. A square of 50cm is enough to organize the Kids’ Athletics activities. IAAF educates instructors, coaches and physical education (PE) teachers on how to improve using the equipment used in the Kids’ Athletics programme.

“The activation of Kids’ Athletics Programme marks a crucial step forward for kid’s sports development in Nigeria. It was developed because the participation of sport and physical activities among children are on the decline, especially in Nigeria.

The IAAF identified that the practice of sport in general was declining for several reasons: the decrease of physical activities in schools; children were spending more time in front of the television; and obesity was on the rise with the World Health organisation (WHo) identifying it as a worldwide epidemic. These negative trends consequently saw the health and bio-motor skills of children suffer greatly.

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THE GUARDIAN, Friday, July 19, 2013

Ajax trio will only leave for top teams, say De Boer

Play regular for Chelsea, make World Cup team, Mourinho tells Mikel, others HELSEA boss, Jose C Mourinho has insisted there is “no chance” the club will sell Juan Mata or David Luiz this summer.

The duo’s future at Stamford Bridge was recently cast into doubt after both were rumored to have been offered as part of a deal for Manchester United striker, Wayne Rooney, a claim that Chelsea vehemently denied.

Mourinho was quick to address the issue in his first press conference after arriving in Malaysia as part of the club’s preseason tour, responding definitively to questions as to whether he would consider selling either player.

“No chance. No chance,” Mourinho told reporters, before responding to whether the pair would still be at the club next season by insisting “Yes. For me that’s enough.”

Mourinho also took the opportunity to remind international players that they cannot afford to sit on the bench this season if they are hoping to secure a place in next summer’s World Cup. “I always say to my players that when they are with the national team they don’t think about our club, but when they are with the club they have to forget the national team and give everything to the club,” Mourinho said.

“At the same time, normally players who want to go to their national team and play for their country, normally they must be first choice players for their clubs and be playing regularly. That’s the big motivation if you are thinking about playing at the World Cup. “If they want to go to the World Cup and they’re second choice at their club, then they’re in trouble, they’re in trouble.

“I think it’s a crucial year for them. Many national team coaches are worried, because they want players to play regularly for their clubs. They have to play for me to play for them.

It’s a combination. They must share the situation.”

JAX boss, Frank de Boer has A insisted that the likes of Christian Eriksen, Siem de

Mikel

Dos Santos eager to break out with Villarreal T has been a long, winding Itional road for Mexican internaGiovani Dos Santos at club level, but the 24-year-old new Villarreal playmaker believes it is time to put all that behind him and finally live up to his potential.

“I’m eager to demonstrate the player I am and definitively break out,” Dos Santos stated at his presentation at the club yesterday.

“I know everyone (at the club) believes in me. I hope it’ll be a great year as much in the personal (sense) as the collective.”

Dos Santos

moved from Mallorca to Villarreal after his old club was relegated from La Liga on the last day of the season.

The forward had previous spent a barren spell Tottenham Hotspur, where he failed to get regular minutes and was loaned out to teams as diverse as Ipswich Town, Galatasaray and Racing Santander.

But Dos Santos, a Barcelona youth product, believes the experience of moving around so much and getting relegated has set him up to succeed at newly promoted

Villarreal.

“I’m more mature now and very thankful for the trust Villarreal has put in me,” Dos Santos said. The Mexico international, who has already amassed 67 caps, revealed that his new club had maintained an interest in the last two or three years, but that circumstances didn’t align and when the Yellow Submarine came in this time, he didn’t need to think twice about signing.

“I didn’t have a doubt, nor did I wait for another offer,” said the Monterrey-born for-

ward. “This is one of Spain’s big clubs that had a hiccup with relegation. We have to be ambitious, I’m coming to a club with an impressive project and that excites me.”

Dos Santos rejoins Coach, Marcelino Garcia Toral at El Madrigal, under whom he enjoyed one of his better loan spells with Racing Santander.

The player – whose squad number is not yet known - was keen to point out that while his relationship with Garcia Toral is good, he will have to work as hard as all the rest of the squad to get into the team.

Jong and Toby Alderweireld will only leave the club for truly top teams.

The Amsterdam ArenA trio has the attention of numerous clubs in this summer’s transfer window but none tempting enough to lure them away from the Eredivisie giant, which delights the capital-based club’s coach.

“Players, who rejected clubs say a lot about how good they’ve got it at Ajax,” De Boer told reporters. “It means that we’re doing something right and we’re happy with that. At Ajax they can develop. If those guys leave Ajax, we can be proud that they moved to a bigger club or competition.

“It’s an option for us to offer Toby and Eriksen a new contract. If these three guys stay at Ajax, we would be very happy.”

De Jong has also indicated he was considering a move this summer, according to De Boer, who says the 24-year-old club captain could yet remain with the reigning Dutch champion.

“I gave Siem a call during the holiday and asked what his feeling was,” he said. “I was wondering if he had already made a decision about moving to another league. I also wanted to make it clear that we didn’t want to lose him.

“He said that he has a good feeling at Ajax and will only leave for a really good club.

Right now he’s at Ajax and we’re happy with that.”

Ajax forward Eriksen, 21, and defender, Alderweireld, 24, have one year left on their deals, while De Jong is contracted until the end of the 2014-15 season.

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TheGuardian

Friday, July 19, 2013

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

By Adegboyega Adeleye dwelling on the above subject, I had cause ImyNtoworking read our National Anthem and Pledge from diary. Every sentence written there is challenging. The notable ones are (1a) To serve our father land with love, strength and faith (1b) The labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain (1c) To serve with heart and might (1d) One nation bound in freedom, peace and unity (2a) O God of creation, direct our nob le cause (2b) Guide our leaders right (2c) Help our youth the truth to grow and living just and true. In the same tune continued the Pledge.

I examined the grown and the growing population and I realised, though we are endowed with very large and broad based human resources, however, the country continues to remain a sleeping giant due to non-development of her human capital.

Let us consider the manner in which foreigners are entrusted with every major job, while the inferior ones are given to Nigerian professionals on the basis of lack of experience, lack of exposure, lack of funds, lack of trust, etc. By this act, foreigners grow from strength to strength at the expense of Nigerian professionals. They acquire choice properties in Nigeria (if not the whole of Nigeria), dictate who should govern Nigerians – if they don’t become the governors.

I hope we can see into the future.

Consider the Chinese growth to reckoning in every facet of life (technology, sports, western and traditional medicine, etc.), they implement deliberate policies to develop and sustain their human capital. They do not only trust in themselves or their people, but they challenge them.

They do not just challenge them, they support them through organised frameworks. They do not just support them, they empower them.

They do not just empower them, they patronise them. They do not just patronise them, they showcase them. They do not just showcase them, they give them thrust to become a global player. They are not just given a thrust, they are entrenched in the global arena. Same applies to Taiwan and the likes. Quoting a Yoruba adage directly, “because one’s damsel does not have a big buttock, can we then decide to decorate another one’s daughter?”

By Chuks Valentine Augustus EW years back, on Ajose Adeogun Street, Fclose Victoria Island, Lagos, a certain man, after of work on what I would call a bad day, was crossing the road; he was so careful to observe the lanes well before crossing.

Having been convinced that it was safe, he made to get to the other side. A man driving towards his direction noticed him and slowed down, and waving at the man in appreciation, he proceeded.

Alas, something horrible happened – an unnoticed commercial motorcycle, popularly called okada, was coming with uncontrollable speed, and then bam!!! The man was hit badly that he fell landing his head on the ground. Attempts to save his life proved abortive as he soon gave up the ghost. Such was and still is the menace of okada in the cities and towns of Nigeria.

In truth, the okada business has done so much in accommodating and keeping many unemployed Nigerians gainfully busy, especially as there are tens of thousands of graduates every year all over Nigeria with very little or no job opportunities awaiting them. It is no longer surprising to see or hear that an okada rider is a graduate, as there are a good number of them out there. The business has for many years provided succour for different groups, since it is one of the easiest means of livelihood that many youths engage in - there have been many okada merchants and importers, the spare parts dealers, there are also okada mechanics who specialise only on okada repairs; there are food vendors who either hawk foods or have restaurants at okada parks, there are okada ticketers, and every other employment that can come with the business.

However, like the popular Yoruba adage that says “ibi wa ninu ire”, some good things in life also have adverse effects. The okada business have over the years had many inexperienced and careless riders, who, on a daily basis, cause accidents that leave their victims either dead or badly injured. It has also proved to be one of the means used to aid crimes – especially robbery, as it can easily maneuver its way on narrow and bad roads, and also in traffic jams.

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Nigeria: Whose inheritance?

Based on these excuses, Nigeria is being auctioned to China, South Africa, India and the rest of the world. If Nigeria is being auctioned to foreigners by under developing Nigerian human capital then there is certainly no inheritance for the young and unborn Nigerians. They will become slaves or at best second fiddle in their own fatherland. The questions are: Do we love Nigeria?

Will the labour of our heroes past not be in vain? Are we serving with heart and might?

Giving guided opportunities to the indigenes puts them on the edge, which is a frontier where engineer’s skills are stretched. The Nigerian Content Act signed into law in the year 2010 partly addresses this in the oil and gas sector. This Act, among others, is meant to correct the low levels of indigenous participation especially in exploration and production, which resulted in unemployment for Nigerians; lack of technical capacity; excessive use of expatriate staff who are in top managerial positions; and stunted economic growth as well as capital flight. In tackling these challenges, the Federal Government of Nigeria came to the realisation that the domination by the International Oil Companies (IOCs) in the Oil and Gas industry, inordinate dependence on foreign fabricated goods, and preference for expatriate staff, among other factors, were major obstacles in the country’s path to economic emancipation and technological development.

The Nigerian Content Act is a deliberate government policy that would enhance increased participation of local indigenous companies in all aspects of the Nigerian oil and gas industry via a comprehensive industrial and economic growth strategy for the country.

If this is true for the oil and gas sector, it is equally true for other sectors, namely: Construction, automobile, telecommunication and aviation, etc. Hence, the government should establish benchmark for each sector with a minimum of 30 to 70 Nigerians to foreign participation ratio. This should not stop here, each sector should be appraised periodically, then seek avenues to increase the Nigerian participation through entrusting whole contract and engagement of staff. By this I mean, while 30 per cent of a whole contract is awarded to Nigerians, even in the 70 per cent to foreigners, we should have 30 per cent employees mandatorily in every segment (skilled and unskilled labour, technocrat, bureaucrat, etc). After a period of four years the percentage per sector should move up. For example, in the oil sector, it should move to 40 then to 60 per cent ratio. It should not just be moving but proper appraisals of local companies should be done. Encourage and facilitate partnership where necessary. Abuses should be monitored and forestalled. For example, in the Oil and Gas – the abuse now is for a Nigerian company to be awarded a job only for him to subcontract to foreigners without participation.

In road contracting, the least grade of roads is awarded to Nigerians, while turnkey projects are meant for foreign companies. When awarding such contracts, specifications should not only be given but deliberate assistance and monitoring to do it right. In the recent past, I saw the same category of road constructed by a local and foreign company in Lagos State. In all honesty, the two jobs were poles apart. However, I reflected on the results, compared and contrasted, my conclusion was that, the feat achieved by the foreign company is within the reach of the local company by a little stretch.

In all these, I can perceive, it will be opined that the foreign counterpart has the financial means. How do we solve the problem of capital, I mean finance? The Chinese have a strategy that funded their real sectors. The Chinese government through their banks provided very low, long term interest to their indigenes.

We must know that profit is not only in terms of currency; otherwise our actions will be counterproductive in the long run. We should encourage, qualify, utilise, inspire and protect local professionals – EQUIP for short. Through guided exposure and extension of frontiers, our professionals will be able to perform at home and become a player in the international scene.

The Indians and Chinese adopted a very similar aggressive model in development by investing heavily in research and development, copy technology, rewarding indigenous contributions and protecting their products. Now they are both on the global stage competing (fiercely). The reverse is the case in Nigeria. No research into indigenous or foreign technology, no platform for copy technology; no indigenous technical shows and worse still, no motivation for inventors, developers or product adaptors. Neither have we challenged our ivory towers with everyday real life situation.

In my opinion, research is also a form of employment, hence allocation should be directed in this area and concerted effort made to put the results, findings and development into use.

•Adeleye is a member of the Nigerian Institution of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Lagos Chapter.

mitting crimes, certainly makes the use of motorcycle more dangerous.

Nevertheless, as beautiful and laudable as some government decisions, actions and policies may be, for some or most of them, An incident occurred about two years by these state governments, others con- the population of the poor, which is always ago at Igando in Lagos, in the hour of demned it. I had another experience, this the largest, is always at the receiving end. It 5.00 a.m. We were at the stand where we time in Benin. I was waiting to board a is the poor that resorts to okada riding normally waited to board staff bus to vehicle home, someday, in Benin. Several because there are no jobs, unlike most chilwork, when two motorcycles passed us at other people were waiting too; and it was dren of the rich who get jobs immediately full speed. The one in the front was carry- about to rain. The vehicles that came upon leaving school through one or two ing a woman who was profusely shout- around were not enough to serve the connections. It is the poor woman who goes ing for help at the top of her voice, while teeming number of people which only to hawk food to raise her children; the wives the one behind, I suppose, was acting as a increased at every blink of the eyelid. and daughters of most of the rich men run back-up. The policemen on duty at that Then, a young man suddenly shouted, big supermarkets or boutiques and also time, seeing what happened, took to “God punish Oshiomhole ooo”. A week work in reputable firms. Besides, the decitheir heels – well, I guess they were later, a friend who works for a hospital sion to outlaw okada has adversely affected unarmed. Whatever happened to that gave me a ride home, and while we were the operations of some corporate business woman is a mystery. Besides, most okada discussing, he talked about how there organisations that employ the services of operators are in the habit of drinking used to be a lot of accident casualties at dispatch riders who use motorcycles to carstrong alcohol before and during work, the hospital, and that 22 out of every 25 ry out their legal business activities.

Personally, I condemn some of the activities thereby putting the lives of their passen- cases were always from okada accidents. of okada riders and the crimes some of them gers in danger, though there are very He revealed that since the government perpetrated. At the same time, I commend responsible and careful ones as well. outlawed okada, there have been little or However, some citizens, especially the no such cases, praising the same the efforts of the various governments in families of those who lost their lives in Governor Oshiomhole that the young curbing them, but I believe that everybody okada accidents, got a bit relieved follow- man earlier cursed. Some of the critics of should be carried along when making poliing the decisions of the governments of these decisions believe that motorcycle is cies such as the ones that resulted in the some states — Imo, Lagos, Delta and Edo— not the only instrument used in perpe- enactment of the law banning okada in to ban okada operations in parts of their trating crimes, because what kidnappers order to avoid a situation in which the poor domain. Expectedly, this proscription use to carry out their dastardly opera- will become even poorer and might start did not come without mixed feelings tions are motor vehicles. They may have thinking of engaging in unwholesome activand reactions among the populace. a point, but I think the issue of incessant ities as alternatives. Policies and laws can be While some people hailed the decision accidents, coupled with means of com- made to regulate the activities of these operators. For instance, a government establishment can be set up, and every okada operaThe YOUTHSPEAK Column which is published daily is an initiative of THE GUARDIAN, and tor be made to register with it, have and powered by RISE NETWORKS, Nigeria’s Leading Youth Development Centre, as a substantial advocacy platform available for ALL Nigerian Youth to engage Leadership at all levels, engage always wear uniform and also have identity Society and contribute to National Discourse on diverse issues especially those that are pecu- cards. Potential passengers should be liar to Nigeria. Regarding submission of articles, we welcome writers‘ contributions by way of advised to properly identify an operator before agreeing to board his motorcycle. well crafted, analytical and thought provoking opinion pieces that are concise, topical and non-defamatory! All articles (which are not expected to be more than 2000 words) should be The government can also, through this sent to editorial@risenetworks.org To read the online Version of this same article plus past establishment, occasionally organise mandatory trainings and seminars for them publications and to find out more about Youth Speak, please visit www.risenetworks.org/youthspeak and join the ongoing National Conversations’’. which could indeed also serve as sources of income for the government.

While I enjoin the populace to acknowlAlso join our on-line conversation edge the fact that the ban on okada opera21676F3E @risenetworks RISE GROUP tions is to a large extent for our own good, I also urge our governments to always try and Published by Guardian Newspapers Limited, Rutam House, Isolo, Lagos Tel: 4489600, 2798269, 2798270, 07098147948, 07098147951 Fax: 4489712; Advert Hotlines: put the interest of the poor majority at Lagos 7736351, Abuja 07098513445; Circulation Hotline: 01 4489656 heart.

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Editor: MARTINS OLOJA ABC (ISSN NO 0189-5125)

Pains, gains of okada ban

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