Mon 05 May 2014 by The Guardian Newspaper

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Monday, May 5, 2014

Vol. 30, No. 12,912

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Northern Christian forum releases names of abducted school girls From Adamu Abuh, Bridget Chiedu Onochie, Azimazi Momoh Jimoh, Nkechi Onyedika, Ezeocha Nzeh, Omotola Oloruntobi (Abuja) and Tunde Akinola (Lagos)

• Seeks N50 million compensation for each of them • APC, Mark, others want concrete action against insurgents

AMES of some of the 180 N abducted girls of Government Secondary School, Chi-

manded N50 million as trauma compensation to each of them after their freedom. In a related development, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has appealed to the Federal Gov-

bok, Borno State, have been released by the Northern States Christian and Elders Forum (NOCSEF). The organisation also de-

ernment to hasten up efforts to secure the release of the kidnapped girls. Also, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has described as cowardly and incomprehensible last Thursday’s repeated

bombing at Nyanya in Abuja. The party also said the government has made a laughing stock of itself by setting up a fact-finding committee on the missing school girls 17 days after they were abduct-

ed. Meanwhile, President of the Senate, David Mark, at the weekend insisted on the need for full military action to bring the insurgents to their knees. In the same vein, the Progres-

sive People’s Alliance (PPA) has called on the Federal Government to consider stiff measures against countries along the borders alleged to be aiding insurgency. Similarly, the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) has said that the Boko Haram-led terrorism was the greatest threat to national unity and called on fed-

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Names of some of the abducted girls

Head Teacher of Girls Secondary School Chibok, Mrs. Asaba Kwabura after a meeting on the rescue of the missing pupils at the Presidential Villa, Abuja at the weekend

Borno State Governor, Kashim Shettima after a meeting on the rescue of the missing Chibok School Girls at the Presidential Villa, Abuja at the weekend.

FG raises investors’ panel on power sector From Mathias Okwe, Assistant Business Editor, Abuja O effectively tackle the T seemingly intractable challenges in the Nigerian power sector, the Federal Government has set up an in-

vestors’ committee with the mandate to urgently provide the needed fillip to boost growth in manufacturing from its current low-level contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The committee, headed by

Vice President Namadi Sambo, is akin to the Bankers’ Committee in the banking industry and has membership drawn from major investors in the power sector and heads of the power regulatory agencies in the coun-

try. The committee is charged with the responsibilities of identifying bottlenecks and drawbacks militating against the progress of the Federal Government’s power-privatisation plan to usher

in a reign of adequate power to meet the energy needs of investors that are expected to throng the country with both local and foreign direct investments as a result of the great opportunities uncovCONTINUED ON PAGE 2

The Christian Girls are: 1 Deborah Abge Christian 2. Awa Abge “ 3. Hauwa Yirma “ 4. Asabe Manu “ 5. Mwa Malam pogu “ 6. Patiant Dzakwa “ 7. Saraya Mal. Stover “ 8. Mary Dauda “ 9. Gloria Mainta “ 10.Hanatu Ishaku “ 11. Gloria Dama “ 12. Tabitha Pogu “ 13. Maifa Dama “ 14. Ruth kollo “ 15. Esther Usman “ 16 Awa James 17 Anthonia Yahonna 18 Kume Mutah 19 Aisha Ezekial “ 20 Nguba Buba “ 21 Kwanta Simon. 22 Kummai Aboku. 23 Esther Markus 24 Hana Stephen. 25. Rifkatu Amos 26 Rebecca Mallum 27.Blessing Abana. 28. Ladi Wadai 29. Tabitha Hyelampa. 30 Ruth Ngladar . 31 Safiya Abdu . 32 Na’omi Yahonna. 33 Solomi Titus . 34Rhoda John 35 Rebecca Kabu 36. Christy Yahi. 37. Rebecca Luka. 38. Laraba John 39 Saratu Markus. 40. Mary Usman. 41 Debora Yahonna. 42.Naomi Zakaria 43 Hanatu Musa 44. Hauwa Tella 45.Juliana Yakubu. 46. Suzana Yakubu

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2 Monday, May 5, 2014

Govt raises investors’ panel on power sector CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 ered in the recent concluded rebasing of the Nigerian

economy which ranked it the largest in the African Continent. The spokesman of the Bu-

reau of Public Enterprises (BPE), Mr. Joe Anichebe, in a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, said the Director-General, Mr. Benjamin Ezra Dikki, revealed the Federal Government’s plans through BPE’s Head, Stakeholders Relations Unit, Alhaji Aliyu Maigari, at an interactive session between members of the House of Representatives Committee on Privatisation and Commercialisation, the new owners of PHCN successorcompanies in Ibadan and the BPE during the committee’s oversight visit to the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IEDC) last Tuesday. According to him, the newlyestablished committee will meet quarterly to review issues and take critical decisions on the privatised power sector like the Bankers’ Committee does for the banking sector. He said membership of the committee would be drawn from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Company (NBET), Ministry of Power, Nigerian Gas Company (NGC), BPE and investors in the power sector, among other relevant stakeholders. The statement said the DG, in

an apparent response to a suggestion by the committee for immediate constitution of an all stakeholders’ committee to address the challenges faced in the power sector, said such would amount to a duplication of efforts. Briefing members earlier, the Deputy Managing Director (DMD) of IEDC, Mr. John Darlington, informed the committee that the distribution company was the biggest in the country with 1,073,673 customers. He called on the government to take steps to make the generation and distribution power companies financially viable to enable them undertake aggressive investments in power infrastructure, adding that this could be done through having a tariff structure that is cost reflective and recognises current market situation as well as undertake sustainable investment in the transmission network to deliver generated capacity to distribution companies without constraints. He also called for vigilance by the distribution companies and the relevant authorities to combat vandalism and electricity theft, which rob legitimate customers of power and revenues that will help

sustain the market. Darlington further called for the mediation by the government to delineate asset boundaries between the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) and distribution companies for effective network operation. While decrying the frequent picketing of the company’s premises by former members of staff of the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), he said urgent steps should be taken to check it, as “it is a grave danger for investors in the power sector.” He also called for the review of the classification of the core/non-core assets of the distribution companies as some of the assets classified as non-core were essential to the operations of distribution network expansion. At the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC), the Managing Director, Oladele Amoda, an engineer, said the company had secured $150 million to expand and improve its network. He told the lawmakers that the company planned to invest N42 billion in the next five years for network improvement to reduce aggregate technical, commercial and collection (ATC&C) losses

and enhance service delivery. Amoda said as part of its digitalisation programme, customers could pay their bills on-line and through banks in any part of the country, a feat, he said, only the company had been able to achieve. He also called on the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to address the severe power evacuation capacity limitations in the transmission stations for EKEDC to improve power supply to its customers. He added that the company was ready to assist in funding of some of the transmission projects that would remove interface bottlenecks. In her remarks, the Chairman of the Committee, which has been on oversight visit of the defunct PHCN Successor Companies (SCs) in Lagos and Ibadan axes of the country, Khadija Bukar AbbaIbrahim, said the visit was to assess the performance of the companies in line with Post Acquisition Plan (PAP) they signed with the government. She said the committee would legislate laws that would guarantee effective performance of the companies for the benefit of Nigerians.

Names of some of the abducted girls CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 47.Saraya Paul. 48. Jummai Paul 49. Mary Sule 50. Jummai John. 51.Yanke Shittima. 52. Muli Waligam . 53. Fatima Tabji. 54. Eli Joseph. 55.Saratu Emmanuel. 56. Deborah Peter. 57.Rahila Bitrus. 58. Luggwa Sanda. 59. Kauna Lalai. 60. Lydia Emmar. 61.Laraba Maman. 62.Hauwa Isuwa. 63. Confort Habila. 64. Hauwa Abdu. 65. Hauwa Balti. 66.Yana Joshua. 67.Laraba Paul. 68.Saraya Amos. 69. Glory Yaga. 70. Na’omi Bitrus. 71. Godiya Bitrus.

72. Awa Bitrus. 73. Na’omi Luka. 74. Maryamu Lawan. 75. Tabitha Silas. 76. Mary Yahona. 77. Ladi Joel. 78. Rejoice Sanki. 79. Luggwa Samuel. 80.Comfort Amos. 81. Saraya Samuel. 82. Sicker Abdul. 83.Talata Daniel. 84. Rejoice Musa. 85Deborah Abari. 86. Salomi Pogu. 87.Mary Amor. 88. Ruth Joshua. 89Esther John. 90. Esther Ayuba. 91. Maryamu Yakubu. 91. Zara Ishaku. 93. Maryamu Wavi 94. Lydia Habila. 95. Laraba Yahonna. 96. Na’omi Bitrus. 97.Rahila Yahanna. 98. Ruth Lawan.

99. Ladi Paul. 100 Mary Paul. 101. Esther Joshua. 102. Helen Musa. 103. Margret Watsai. 104. Deborah Jafaru. 105. Filo Dauda. 106. Febi Haruna. 107.Ruth Ishaku. 108.Racheal Nkeki. 109. Rifkatu Soloman. 110.Mairama yahaya. 111.Saratu Dauda. 112.Jinkai Yama. 113.Margret Shettima. 114.Yana yidau. 115. Grace Paul. 116. Amina Ali. 117. Palmata Musa 118. Awagana Musa 119. Pindar Nuhu 120.Yana Pogu. 121. Saraya Musa 122. Hauwa Joseph. 123. Hauwa kwakwi. 125. Hauwa Musa. 126. Maryamu Musa.

127. Maimuna Usman. 128. Rebeca Joseph. 129.Liyatu Habitu. 130. Rifkatu Yakubu. 131. Naomi Philimon. 132.Deborah Abbas. 133. Ladi Ibrahim. 134. Asabe Ali 135. Maryamu Bulama. 136.Ruth Amos. 137.Mary Ali 138. Abigail Bukar 139 Deborah Amos 140. Saraya Yanga 141. Kauna Luka 142. Christiana Bitrus 143.Yana Bukar 144. Hauwa peter 145.Hadiza Yakubu. 146.Lydia Simon 147. Ruth Bitrus . 148.Mary Yakubu 149.Lugwa Mutah. 150 Muwa Daniel. 151 Hanatu Nuhu 152. Monica Enoch. 153. Margret Yama.

154.Docas yakubu. 155. Rhoda peter 156. Rifkatu Galang 157. Saratu Ayuba. 158. Naomi Adamu. 159. Hauwa Ishaya 160. Rahap Ibrahim 162. Deborah Soloman. 163Hauwa Mutah 164. Hauwa Takai. 165. Serah Samuel. The Muslim Girls are. 166. Aishatu Musa. 167. Aishatu Grema. 168. Hauwa Nkeki 169. Hamsatu Abubakar 170.Mairama Abubakar. 171 Hauwa Wule 172. Ihyi Abdu 173. Hasana Adamu. 174. Rakiya Kwamtah 175 Halima Gamba. 176. Aisha Lawan . 177. Kabu Malla 178. Yayi Abana. 179. Falta Lawan. 180. Kwadugu Manu

APC, Mark, others want action against insurgents CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 eral and state governments to ensure security of live and property of the people. Minister of Police, Abdul Jelili Adesiyan, has enjoined Nigerians to co-operate with security agencies in order to achieve a sustainable success in the fight against terrorism. The NOCSEF, in a statement in Abuja yesterday, said out of the 180 names, 165 are Christians while 35 are Muslims. The statement, signed by the immediate-past chairman of NOCSEF, an affiliate of CAN and Founder of Old Time Revival Hour, Kaduna, Matthew Owojaiye, said Chibok Local Council is 90 per cent Christians and majority of the girls abducted are Christians. He said: “Why did Boko Haram visit Chibok Local Council? Why didn’t they visit so many other Local Government Girls Secondary Schools in Borno State? The Churches in Nigeria are hereby called upon to embark on ‘A Lamentation

Prayer’”. Owojaiye pointed out that the military alone cannot solve the problem but prayer will, adding: “Ordinary military force may not get them out! Intensive agonising prayer will”. He stated that NOCSEF was making the following demands from the Federal Government whose duty it was to protect the innocent girls: • A N50 million damage as trauma compensation to each girl; • Each abducted girl should be taken to overseas university on government scholarship by September 2014; and • SS1 and SS2 girls in the school should be transferred to institutions of their choice from government coffers. Vice Chairperson of FIDA, Victoria Awomolo (SAN), made the appeal yesterday in Abuja when the association paid a visit to the victims of Nyanya bomb blast. She said: “Beyond the Nyanya bomb blast, we also note the

disappearance of over 200 girls from Chibok; we are not happy as women and mothers. We are appealing to the Federal Government to ensure that these girls are released very soon and alive. The APC added that nothing in the world could justify the mindless, senseless and barbaric killing of innocent people by a group of demented people masquerading as ideologues. In a statement issued in Lagos yesterday by its Interim National Publicity Secretary, Lai Mohammed, the party also said the fact that the dead-enders can bomb the same area twice in as many weeks has given a fillip to the widening call on President Goodluck Jonathan to provide much-needed leadership instead of shifting blames. The statement said: ‘’That almost the same spot can be bombed twice in close proximity is the height of devilish audacity by those who perpetrated the evil act. But it is also a poke in the eye for the au-

thorities, considering the closeness of the scene to the seat of power. ‘’If these insurgents are gaining in strength and audacity, it is because President Jonathan has allowed them through failure of leadership. If these insurgents are back in Abuja after almost three years of their last attack in the city, it is because they have seen a soft target in a President who has failed to lead,’’ it said. The APC said the time has come for the President and Commander-in-Chief to earn his epaulet by providing purposeful leadership at such a critical juncture in the history of the nation, rather than quietly egging on those who stupidly believe these insurgents are being sponsored by the opposition and some other ill-defined people to discredit the government. “That this government waited for all of over two weeks after the girls went missing before

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Minister campaigns against power facilities vandalism From John Akubo, Lokoja HE Minister of state for T Power, Muhammed Wakil, has blamed the delay in the attainment of 10,000 megawatts (mw) target of electricity on infrastructure vandalism. The minister, who spoke at the ovie osese festival in ogori Magongo of Kogi state yesterday where he chaired the occasion, said his ministry in partnership with the National orientation Agency (NoA) was embarking on sensitisation campaign in every nook and cranny of the country to awaken Nigerians on the need to protect power and pipeline infrastructure. He said the menace has continued to affect the effort of the President to deliver on his promise. He said: “one of the major challenges burdening the transformation agenda in the power sector is infrastructural vandalism. “We have resolved to go to all the communities to talk to all our people that it is not government alone that will han-

dle the issue of power and vandalisation of pipelines and infrastructure of power.” stating that ogori Magongo serves as the pilot community for kick-starting the campaign to put an end to the issue of communities vandalising transformers and other power installations, the minister said the sensitisation train would move from community to community, neighbour to neighbour and individual to individual to ask Nigerians to guard power infrastructure and installations. “That is the reason we chose ogori Magongo as a pilot community which is very organised to use it as a model to kick-start our campaign in collaboration with the NoA. “By the end of June, President Jonathan wants to achieve 6,000mw but I don’t think we can achieve that when communities allow these infrastructure to be tampered with,” he stated. He said when the President came on board, he met about 2,000 mw and through his reforms, it has improved to 4,500mw.

The minister indicated that the new target could only be achieved if the communities co-operate with the ministry. According to him, since all the infrastructure are within the communities, the best approach is to engage them by talking to them on the need to protect the infrastructure, which are national assets. The minister donated N120,000 for monthly N10,000 allowance to the queen of ogori who he chose as an ambassador for the sensitisation campaign against vandalisation of power infrastructure in Kogi state.

Govt to review NYSC posting policy From Kanayo Umeh, Abuja HE Federal government T has initiated plans to review the existing National Youth service Corps (NYsC) posting policy, with a view to addressing the perennial problem of under-utilization and rejection of corps members. The Chairman, NYsC

Two years after, Oyerinde’s family, associates demand justice From Alemma-Ozioruva Aliu, Benin City Wo years after the grueT some murder of the Principal Private secretary to governor Adams oshiomhole of Edo state, olaitan oyeinde, his immediate family members, friends, associates and rights groups yesterday demanded for justice, calling on security agencies to bring the killers to book. oyerinde was murdered on May 4, 2012, by yet-to-be-identified gunmen in his second Ugbor Road residence before his wife, brother-in-law and children. A statement yesterday by his wife, Funke; daughter, Ike, on

behalf of the family; Taiwo Akerele on behalf of committee of friends, and Arebomen Ken saro-Wiwa on behalf of civil society, lamented that the police were yet to identify the killers of oyerinde and that friends and family members of the deceased were still in grief and pains”. In a related development, the Network on Police Reform in Nigeria (NoPRIN), a non-governmental organisation committed to promoting police accountability and respect for human rights, in a press statement by NoPRIN Foundation National Coordinator, okechukwu Nwanguma and made available to journalists in Benin City yesterday, called for justice not only for oyerinde but also for other victims of political and extra-judicial killings in the country. The statement said they were disappointed in the contradictions between the investigations of the Police and the Department of state security (Dss). It noted that the investigation exposed the lack of synergy between security agencies in the country as they lamented that all “we seem to witness till date is buck-passing, blame-game

Executive Director, Lagos and South West Bank, Ikemefuna Mbagwu (left); Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Nnamdi Okonkwo and Chairman, Board of Directors, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Christopher Ezeh during the bank’s 26th AGM held at the Nwaniba Hall, Le Meridien Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State at the weekend.

and sluggishness, lethargy and a seeming lack of commitment to unravel the killers, in a very painful and demoralising manner to the chagrin of the family and friends of the slain comrade all over the world.” They demanded that President goodluck Jonathan directs the police and Dss to do a thorough investigation into the killing. NoPRIN, therefore, tasked the Attorney-general of the Federation and Minister of Justice to study both reports, resolve the conflicts and give legal advice that would lead to the apprehension and prosecution of the killers.

National governing Board, Chief gordon Bozimo, disclosed this at the weekend in Abuja during a courtesy call by the board on the Minister of Youth Development, Boni Haruna. According to him: “There are some four areas that we have been mandated to limit our postings, but the realities on ground is that it cannot hold anymore and for us to expand to other sectors, we need approvals. “We believe when graduates leave the university and go for employment, it is assumed that the one year service will be taken as one year working experience, but if you are posted to a place that was not relevant to your course of study, then it is dif-

The Patriots urges new constitution From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja HE Patriots and Ethnic T Nationalities Movement, two groups led by Professor Ben Nwabueze, have declared that President goodluck Jonathan has the right to contest the 2015 presidential elec-

Police beef up security around Abuja, environs From Karls Tsokar, Abuja apparent efforts to dispel ItheNfearWorld from those coming for Economic Forum on Africa (WEF) starting on Wednesday in Abuja, the Inspector-general of Police (IgP), Mohammed Abubakar, has ordered that security operations be tightened around the capital city and adjourning areas. The operation, according to the IgP, would include enhanced surveillance of entry and exit points into the nation’s capital, parks, gardens, shopping malls, hotels, other recreational areas and all strategic places, especially where large crowd usually converge. In a statement issued yesterday by the Force Public Relations officer, Frank Mba, the order by the Inspector-general of Police is “in line with presidential directive and the desire of the country to host a hitch-free and peaceful World Economic Forum on Africa which takes place between May 7 and 9, 2014.” The statement said the order for the deployment of massive security to “cordon the FCT and its environs” was to ensure a

ficult for employers of labour to accept you. To achieve that, we want to be able to post corps members to areas of their training as much as we can, so they can now benefit from that one year working experience.” He noted that the board is committed to the general reform of the scheme in order to sustain and enhance its valuable contributions to national unity and development. He underlined that the board has partnered banks in the area of critical intervention in skill acquisition and entrepreneurship training of corps members, stating that, “specifically, the scheme signed an MoU with the Bank of Industry (BoI).”

safe, secure and conducive atmosphere before, during and after the World Economic Forum. Abubakar, according to the statement, has “directed police field commanders to step up tight security measures in all strategic locations and vulnerable points and further strengthen security at entry and exit points of FCT, airports and highways as well as city roads, hotels and the conference venue.” Calling on the co-operation of all towards this important event, the IgP assured the conference participants, the citizenry as well as members of the international community of adequate security, stressing that the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies have already put in place effective security measures for their safety and comfort. Though the renewed security efforts have caused serious hardship to motorists and commuters generally, the authorities say it is to ensure the safety of Nigerians. The IgP further charged the citizens to show understanding and continue to co-operate with the police and all security agencies in the ongoing special security operations.

tion. In a joint meeting held last Friday at the Pope John Paul II Centre in Abuja, the groups noted that they were not opposed to President Jonathan’s ambition for re-election in 2015, should he decide to run, stressing that he has the constitutional right. The groups, however, in a communiqué signed by Professor Ben Nwabueze and solomon Asemota for The patriots and Ethnic Nationalities Movement respectively, urged the president to provide a new constitution anchored on a referendum as a source of its authority, which would ensure national rebirth and unity. The groups, which also requested the president to set up the Ethnic Nationalities Commission to resolve and minimize ethnic conflicts as well as promote mutual understanding, tolerance and peaceful co-existence among the ethnic nationalities. While applauding government’s efforts in convening the on-going national conference, they expressed doubts on the confab being able to transform Nigeria into a better and united country. They, however, noted that the conference could still be salvaged if President Jonathan sends an executive bill to the National Assembly and a referendum, which the group said has been prepared and submitted to him by The Patriots for amendments, stressing that this would make Nigerians see the president as safeguarding the unity of the nation.

LASTMA to pay N10m over injured cyclist By Bertram Nwannekanma LAgos High Court, Ikeja A has awarded the sum of N10 million as damages against Lagos state Traffic Management Agency (LAsTMA), and its official, Mr. Adelebe sunday for causing bodily injury to a student, samson Dibie sometimes in 2011. Trial judge, Justice Doris okuwobi, in her judgment held that the action of the official was unconstitutional and subsequently illegal. she held it violated the applicant’s rights to dignity of human person as guaranteed by section 34 of the 1999 constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The court also declared that the assault and physical attack on the applicant by Aidelebe sunday on that day, which eventually led to the amputation of his right hand is illegal, unconstitutional and a threat to his right to life as guaranteed in section 33 of the 1999 constitution. The act, the judge held violated Article 4 of the Human and Peoples’ Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act (Cap A9) Laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. To this end, Justice okuwobi awarded the sum of N10 million in favour of the applicant as damages for the infringement of Dibie’s fundamental rights to life and dignity of person. Dibie, who was attacked at Abule Egba with a stick by the LAsTMA official on December 1, 2011, while attempting to escape arrest with his motorcycle had dragged the official, LAsTMA and the state Ministry of Transport to court through his lawyer, Mrs. Funmi Falana, asking for N200 million general damages for his injury and the infringement of his fundamental human rights. He also prayed the court to declare that the action of sunday (LAsTMA official) was unconstitutional and illegal as it violated his rights to dignity of human person. Arguing the case, Mrs. Falana had told the court the action of the 1st respondent in the case had almost resulted to the death of the applicant. The incident, she argued eventually led to the amputation of his right hand, in a bid to save his life.

Monday, May 5, 2014 NEWS

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News Doctors seek police protection, back health bill From Alemma-Ozioruva Aliu, Benin City FRAID that doctors have A now become the most sought-after by kidnappers, the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) has called for special police protection for all doctors in the country. The NMA, which ended its 54th Annual General Conference and Delegates Meeting (AGC/AGM) in Benin

City, Edo State, yesterday, also called on President Goodluck Jonathan and the National Assembly to support the National Health Bill, which is again before the lawmakers, saying it would give more Nigerians, particularly the rural dwellers, more access to healthcare. Rising from the conference, with theme as “Healthcare Delivery and National Development: A Critical

Appraisal in Nigeria’s 100 Years Existence,” it also commended the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which it said has converted Nigerian hospitals from “mere consulting clinics.” The newly elected President of the NMA, Dr. Kayode Obembe, who read the communiqué to newsmen at the end of the meeting yesterday, lamented that the country’s health structure had become so ridiculous

that 80 per cent of challenges that should ordinarily fall into primary healthcare is now referred to tertiary health sector. He noted that the bill, if passed, would correct this. “The National Health Bill should be passed because it would give certain amount of the budget directly to the primary health sector,” he said. “It is not to be taken care of at the secondary or tertiary level but directly sent to the com-

munities for PHC and once that is achieved, we are sure the primary health centres will be properly funded and all the facilities will be made available all the time. “80 per cent of the diseases that take people to the hospital can be taken care of at the primary healthcare centres; another 15 per cent by secondary health centres and only five per cent should actually get to teaching hospitals.” Meanwhile, Obembe said that doctors were now the most vulnerable group to kidnappers, noting: “It is time for us now to ask for police escorts wherever we are going because it is proven that we are delivering services to all Nigerians and are not protected. “The past president of this association, Dr. Stephen Kishna, was kidnapped. Even before

this conference started, another doctor, a lady, was kidnapped here in Benin City. So we are using this opportunity to call on government to provide police protection for doctors in the course of our duties. “It is not strange, the judges are protected round the clock, even in their houses, so why can’t the government do the same thing for doctors?” According to him, the NMA is committed to Universal Health Coverage for Nigerians, and this would be achieved with the adoption of the community-based NHIS, which would make it possible for a doctor to be accountable to no fewer than 6,000 patients. This scheme, he said, would also encourage doctors to migrate to communities, with its encouraging economic benefits.

Herdsmen deny involvement in violence in north From Saxone Akhaine, Northern Bureau Chief

Vice President, Namadi Sambo (right); receiving Governor Sullivan Chime of Enugu State, his Abia State counterpart and Chairman of SouthEast Governors’ Forum, Chief Theodore Orji and Governor Martin Elechi of Ebonyi State when the governors paid him a condolence visit at the State House… Abuja.

CONTRARY to their widely reported arson and unbridled killings in northern communities, especially in Benue and Nasarawa states, the umbrella body of the Fulani herdsmen, Miyyeti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), has denied the involvement of members in such crisis. The officials also resolved to embark on the registration of all members across the coun-

Chinese Premier, Li, visits Nigeria, three others African countries By Olalekan Okusan, with Agency Reports OWARDS strengthening T the booming economic relationship and to further underscore Nigeria’s importance to China, Chinese Premier, Li Keqiang, will arrive Nigeria tomorrow as part of his visit to four African countries. According to the AFP, this is his first tour of the continent since assuming office over a year ago. After arriving in

Ethiopia yesterday, Li journeys to Nigeria tomorrow before moving on to Angola on Thursday and finally Kenya on Friday, China’s Foreign Ministry said. Li will spend three days in Nigeria, where he will meet with President Goodluck Jonathan and also attend the World Economic Forum on Africa, which starts in Abuja on Wednesday. Bilateral ties between Nigeria and China have been growing since both countries first established

diplomatic relations in 1971, and the prime minister’s visit would build on those links. According to the country’s foreign ministry, six major agreements would be signed during the three-day trip, among them economic and technical cooperation in such sectors as aviation, banking and health projects to combat malaria. Li’s trip also includes a visit to the headquarters of the African Union (AU) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The trip fol-

lows the visit by Chinese President, Xi Jinping, to the continent last year, shortly after taking office. China’s economic growth has been partially fuelled by Africa’s natural resources and exports to the continent, including oil. “It is an important visit oriented towards the whole continent,” Chinese Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, Zhang Ming, told newsmen, stressing that Li would be visiting Africa’s eastern, western and southern regions, which

“highlights the great importance” they attach to ChinaAfrica relations.” Zhang added that renewing the “traditional friendship” between China and Africa, as well as advancing a “new type of strategic partnership” were goals of the visit. The high-rise AU Headquarters, Addis Ababa’s tallest building, was built and donated by China at a cost of $200 million in 2012. Li is expected to address the leaders of the 54-member pan-African bloc.

Nigerian-built cars to compete at Shell Eco-marathon in Rotterdam From Emeka Anuforo, Abuja ARS designed and built by C engineering undergraduates from the University of Benin (UNIBEN) and the University of Lagos (UNILAG) will participate in the 2014 edition of Shell Eco-marathon Europe, holding in Rotterdam from May 15 to 18. The teams are the first from Sub-Saharan Africa to enter the global event, a development that will boost Nigeria’s quest to produce highly competitive locally built cars. The teams are being supported by Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) Joint Venture.

The annual event will see thousands of students compete to demonstrate ultra-fuel efficiency with their designs, with the winners’ vehicle capable of travelling the farthest on the least quantity of fuel. The UNIBEN students have named their brand Tuke-Tuke while that of UNILAG is Autonov-11. SPDC Managing Director and Country Chairman of Shell in Nigeria, Mutiu Sunmonu, said in Abuja yesterday that a Professor of Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Ike Mowete, is leading the Lagos team, while a Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Akii Ibhadode, heads the Benin group.

According to a statement from Shell, last year, students from the Ahmadu Bello University, UNILAG and UNIBEN attended the event as observers on SPDC JV sponsorship. “Since then, the students from Lagos and Benin have successfully built cars that are being sent to Rotterdam this week, in line with the main objective of Shell Eco-marathon: to challenge students from around the world to design, build and race fuel-efficient vehicles. The judges will be looking to reward the cars that drive farthest with the least amount of fuel.” He added: “As first time en-

tries, we’re modest in our expectations from Team Nigeria, but to scale through the technical qualification phase is itself a reward. We want to focus on the future of energy in a world with a rapidly growing population, and we believe the undergraduates traveling to Rotterdam will help push the boundaries of this discussion.” The event dates back to 1939, and has come yearly in Europe since 1985, in the United States since 2007, and went global with the first edition in Asia in 2010. The Nigerian teams join a long line of youth innovators, who have designed increasingly fuel-efficient vehi-

cles using energy types ranging from electricity to biofuel. Already, Team Nigeria’s participation has caught the interest of the National Automotive Council (NAC), which has appointed a focal point to support the students. According to NAC DirectorGeneral, Aminu Jalal, who spoke when an SPDC team led by the General Manager, Communications, Philip Mshelbila, called on him in Abuja recently, “the interest in fuel efficient cars fits well with government’s efforts to encourage the automobile industry in Nigeria.”

try to differentiate them from the criminals perpetrating crisis in the country. MACBAN National President, Alhaji Muhammadu Kirowa, said in Kaduna at the weekend that his members were not responsible for the killings, particularly in northern communities. Kirowa, who spoke during the body’s maiden national executive council meeting, explained that the identification plan would help to know the real cattle herders and also help to end the killings being perpetrated in the name of Fulani herdsmen. However, the National President of Southern Kaduna People’s Union (SOKAPU), Dr. Ephraim Goje, has advised the Fulani leadership to inform their counterparts in neighbouring countries that Nigerian Fulanis are peace-loving, adding that they should not come to Nigeria if they are not ready to be law-abiding.

Ekiti monarch refutes alleged rift with Fayose From Muyiwa Adeyemi, Ado Ekiti HE Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe, has said T the relationship between him and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, is cordial and perfect. Speaking when Fayose paid him a visit at his palace over the weekend, Adejugbe said that neither he nor Ado people were against the former governor. According to a statement by Fayose’s spokesman, Mr. Idowu Adelusi, the monarch has forgotten the past with its inadequacies. However, the Adejugbe enjoined all guber candidates to conduct peaceful campaigns, as all eyes were on Ekiti, adding: “We don’t want fight, violence and killings in Ekiti State, what we want is peace and progress.” He further urged the indigenes to shun violence and killings.

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Northern Christian forum releases names of kidnapped school pupils From Adamu Abuh, Bridget Chiedu Onochie, Azimazi Momoh Jimoh, Nkechi Onyedika, Ezeocha Nzeh, Omotola Oloruntobi (Abuja) and Tunde Akinola (Lagos)

• Seeks N50 million compensation for each of them • APC, Mark, others want concrete action against insurgents

AMES of some of the 180 N abducted girls of Government Secondary School, Chi-

manded N50 million as trauma compensation to each of them after their freedom. In a related development, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has appealed to the Federal Gov-

bok, Borno State, have been released by the Northern States Christian and Elders Forum (NOCSEF). The organisation also de-

ernment to hasten up efforts to secure the release of the kidnapped girls. Also, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has described as cowardly and incomprehensible last Thursday’s repeated

bombing at Nyanya in Abuja. The party also said the government has made a laughing stock of itself by setting up a fact-finding committee on the missing school girls 17 days after they were abduct-

ed. Meanwhile, President of the Senate, David Mark, at the weekend insisted on the need for full military action to bring the insurgents to their knees.

In the same vein, the Progressive People’s Alliance (PPA) has called on the Federal Government to consider stiff measures against countries along the borders alleged to be aiding insurgency. Similarly, the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) has said that the Boko Haram-led terrorism was the greatest threat to national unity and called on fedCONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Names of some of the abducted girls

Head Teacher of Girls Secondary School Chibok, Mrs. Asaba Kwabura after a meeting on the rescue of the missing pupils at the Presidential Villa, Abuja at the weekend

Borno State Governor, Kashim Shettima after a meeting on the rescue of the missing Chibok School Girls at the Presidential Villa, Abuja at the weekend.

Abducted girls to be rescued soon, Jonathan pledges From Madu Onuorah, Mohammed Abubakar (Abuja), Abiodun Fanoro, Seye Olumide and Tunde Akinola (Lagos) RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday held his seventh Presidential Me-

• Urges patience, assures on U.S, others assistance • President says no plan to hike fuel price dia Chat since returning to office in May 2011 stating that his government “is ready to do anything to end

this terrorism.” Vowing that the disappearance of the abducted school girls from Government Girls

Secondary Schools in Chibok, Borno State, cannot be another mystery for the world to grapple with, President Jonathan said “wherever these girls are, we will surely get them out.”

Supreme Court ex-Justice Oputa passes on at 96

Jonathan, however, pleaded with the parents and guardians of the abducted school girls to co-operate with security agencies and release information about

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Monday, May 5, 2014 NEWS

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Adeboye prays for Nigeria, sues for peace

Police urge violence-free campaign in Osun

By Isaac Taiwo

From Tunji Omofoye, Osogbo

N his passion to see the Nigeria of his dream, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, yesterday prayed for the nation to come out of the present quagmire while also asking Boko Haram sect to sheath the sword. Ministering to and praying for Nigerian businessmen and head of industries at headquarters of the RCCG, The Throne of Grace, EbuteMetta, Lagos, Adeboye prayed that the nation would overcome Boko Haram insurgency so that businesses would thrive with investors living above security challenges confronting the nation, which are also detrimental to businesses flourishing in the country. Adeboye, who told the businessmen that they have a big role to play in the stability of the nation’s economy, urged them to draw nigh unto God and to stop depending on themselves or playing games. He lamented high interest rate of banks, which discourages setting up of businesses and described doing business in Nigeria as a warfare. “Business is warfare and aside from competitions with other businessmen, you also need to fight the bank’s high interest rate, which is capable of crippling businesses and this is the reason you need to get along with God. “Just as whoever comes to equity comes with clean hands, anyone who wants to come to God for His assistance would come with clean hands and clean mind. Therefore, you should be clean in all your business dealings and also get God as your Partner in business and the sky cannot be your limit” he admonished.

HEAD the August 9 goverA norship election in Osun State, the political parties

‘LP will continue to dominate Ondo politics’ From Niyi Bello, Akure MEMBER of the Ondo State A House of Assembly, Akindele Adeniyi, at the weekend carpeted the opposition parties in the state over their recent comments that the ruling Labour Party(LP) is no longer relevant in the state politics. Adeniyi, who represents Akure North constituency in the state parliament, said LP will continue to dominate Ondo politics because of “the party’s special ways of implementing masses oriented projects.” Several opposition elements drawn from both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressive Congress (APC), have in the wake of the recently held but inconclusive election to fill the vacant seat of the Ilaje/Ese-Odo federal constituency in the state, described the LP as a sinking party. The lawmaker who got to the Assembly through the first bye-election to be conducted when the LP took over the mantle of leadership in the state, expressed optimism that the party will add more states to its fold after the gubernatorial election Ekiti and Osun states.

Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi; receiving Papal blessings from Pope Francis, with them is the Prefect of the Pontifical Household, Archbishop George Ganswein, during the Canonisation of Pope John Paul II and Pope John XXIII, in Rome yesterday.

FG can’t supervise states, councils, says Oshiomhole OVERNOR Adams G Oshiomhole of Edo State says the Federal Government cannot supervise state or local governments as the nation’s constitution prescribes a federal and not unitary system of government. According to a statement, Oshiomhole spoke at the weekend when he granted audience to Ifaluyi Isibor, the Federal Commissioner representing Edo State in the Federal Character Commission. Reacting to Isibor’s call on him to direct the state local governments and Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to appear before the Federal Character Commission as part of its monitoring exercise, Oshiomhole said: “I am accountable not to the Federal Government, but to the people of Edo State. Our local governments are not accountable to me as the governor of Edo State, they are accountable to the people of their locality. That is the logic of the

federal system. “To think that a local government that is not under the supervision of the Federal Government will have to convince you about the genuineness of their appointments and projects is to mistakenly assume that we are in a unitary system of government. “So, for any person in Abuja to think that he will come as a general overseer to ask the local governments to open their books is not acceptable.” Oshiomhole advised the Federal Government to recognize the principles of federalism, noting that “you don’t appoint a federal agent to come and supervise me.” He emphasized that he was elected by the Edo people and is accountable to the Edo people who elected him. He, however, said: “We are comanagers of the economy and we go to Abuja to coordinate and collaborate but not as Federal Government being my supervisor. The Federal Government is not the super-

visor of states. The location of projects in Edo State is purely as approved by Edo State House of Assembly, not by the National Assembly”. The governor further argued: “I think there is a fundamental error. Maybe because the Federal Character Commission came into existence under a military government and they were not aware that the country is not like a barrack where you have the commander who dishes out the orders. “To ask me, elected by the Edo people, to open the books of the state to a federal agency, we will challenge it in court. The Federal Government cannot supervise my local governments or any of my ministries. “I believe that law offends the fundamentals of the Nigerian Constitution. Even as a governor here, our local governments have certain responsibilities which I must respect. Just restrain yourselves to whom you are, the Federal Character

Commission was appointed by the Federal Government, not nominated by the Edo People.” He advised that the commission look into the operations of some federal agencies in the state. Earlier, Isibor said he was in the Government House to brief the governor on the activities and responsibilities of the commission. He said: “The commission is to establish gaps and develop monitoring framework to address the identified gaps. This is to allow for even development in terms of distribution of amenities, empowerment programmes, schemes, educational programmes, housing and health facilities. The commission is therefore ready to ensure that all MDAs do not only reflect federal character (equity) in their programmes and activities, but also in the distribution of infrastructural facilities and socio-economic amenities in all tiers in the federation.”

ZUNDP, IPAC urge more women participation in 2015 polls By Kabir Alabi Garba FFORTS to enhance E women’s participation in politics beginning from the 2015 general elections received a boost yesterday in Calabar, Cross River State when a five-point demand presented by the women leaders received unanimous endorsement by the chairmen of political parties in the country. The occasion was the National Dialogue on Enhancing Women’s Political Participation in the 2015 Elections facilitated by the Democratic Governance for Development (DGD) of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The two-day dialogue had in attendance chairmen of political parties under the auspices of Inter Party Advisory Council (IPAC) as well as members of Forum of Nigerian Women in Politics (FONWIP).

Canvassing the position of women leaders yesterday at the close of the dialogue, Mariam Ahmed of Citizen Popular Party (CPP) listed sensitisation and education of women in politics; amendment of party constitution to be gender responsive; adequate funding; eradication of violence associated with electioneering; and continuous dialogue for better understanding and commitment as some of the demands to foster women’s participation actively in the forthcoming general elections. Responding, IPAC Chairman, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, said the demands were not only legitimate and constitutionally justifiable, but that he had the mandate of his group to create a platform of engagement with woman leaders of all political parties in Nigeria to ensure that all impediments to political aspirations of womenfolk are

dismantled henceforth. Tanko, who is also Chairman, National Conscience Party of Nigeria (NCP) however solicited the cooperation of FONWIP in the struggle by IPAC to “liberate political parties that are not in power (both at state and federal levels) from financial obstacle created by the ruling parties to keep other parties down.” He disclosed that IPAC would soon visit the National Assembly to canvass for the reinstatement of financial allocation to registered political parties by the INEC. Earlier, IPAC, through its scribe, Peter Ameh, had urged women in politics to make use of other political platforms rather than focusing mainly on parties in power while calling on National Assembly to domesticate 35 per cent affirmative action as part of condition for political party’s registration among others.

Representatives of UNDP, Dr. Sadeeque Abba and Mufuliat Fijabi underscored the essence of the dialogue, which they said, “is in line with DGD’s Roadmap towards the 2015 elections on enhancing women’s political participation in order to increase the number of women who win elective positions and participate in decision making processes in the next political dispensation.” The commitment came out of the understanding that “political parties occupy a strategic position in the electoral process as they are the entry point for all who win elective positions. The parties through their internal party and inter party mechanism have the strategic opportunity to create an enabling environment that will facilitate a better performance by women at the 2015 elections.”

have been admonished to carry out their electioneering campaign with decorum in an atmosphere devoid of rancour and violence. The advice was given by the Deputy Inspector General of Police {DIG}, Peter Gana, who was in Osogbo, the Osun State capital at the weekend in continuation of his tour of the South West zone. Gana, who stated the readiness of the police to provide a level playing ground for all parties during the election, urged politicians to play the game in accordance with the rule, stressing that the police would provide adequate security to enhance the success of the election. According to Gana, the police hierarchy would provide the needed logistics and manpower to support Osun State Police Command during the election. He urged other stakeholders to play their part in order to achieve a desirable objective. His words: “Let me assure all political parties that the police are conscious of their responsibility and will provide a level playing ground for all parties. But the politicians should also conduct their election activities in a manner that will not distrupt the peace of the society.” He explained he was on tour of the South West to inspect police Facilities and to sensitize the policemen on their constitutional duties. The police chief while addressing officers and men at the state police command,, Osogbo enjoined them to be committed and dedicated, saying reward awaits hardworking officers while any of them found wanting would also face sanction. He underscored the importance of community police to enhance peace and security adding that the police should maintain good relationship with members of the public with a view to getting assistance in the course of discharging their duties. Meanwhile, a governorship aspirant on the platform of the Social Democratic Party {SDP} in the state, Mr. Babatunde Oralusi, has said that his priority, if elected, is to build micro -economic system to empower the people for rapid development. Addressing reporters on his political project in Osogbo at the weekend, he noted that Osun has a weak economic base and therefore required somebody like him who is an expert in grassroot development project to kick start its development portfolio. The SDP aspirant said his plan to make a public declaration of his governorship ambition scheduled for last Saturday had been shifted to a future date over alleged security threat. He urged party supporters to show understanding.

Monday, May 5, 2014

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Monday, May 5, 2014

PHOTONEWS

Governor Abiola Ajimobi (left); General Secretary, Baptist World Alliance, Revd. Neville Callan (second left), former Inspector General of Police, Chief Sunday Adewusi (second right), and Tunde Ponle (right), at the Baptist Church Convention, which was held in Ibadan.

National Co-ordinator, National Malaria Elimination Programme, Dr. Nnenna Ezeigwe; Managing Director, Reckitt Benckiser Nigeria Limited, Mr. Rahul Murgai, Abia State Governor, , Theodore Orji, Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu and Abia State Commissioner of Health Dr. Okechukwu Ogah, at the ministerial press briefing in commemoration of 2014 World Malaria Day in Umahia, Abia State.

Director of Communication & Strategy, Ndigbo Lagos, Chuma lgwe (Left), President-General, Ndigbo Lagos, Prof. Anya O. Anya, Executive Vice Chairman, Techno Oil, Mrs Nkechi Obi, and MD, The Niche Newspapers, lkechukwu Amaechi, at the press conference on the planned grand reception for Ndigbo, who left public and private office recently in Lagos Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrator of Nigeria, Mr. Dele Togunde (left), former President, ICSAN, Moses Adeisa, Chairman of the occasion, Olusegun Oshunkeye, Treasurer, ICSAN, Mrs. Ifeyinwa Essien-Akpan, during ICSAN 2014 roundtable on corporate governance in Lagos yesterday. PHOTO: GABRIEL IKHAHON

Chief Service Director, Kurioucity Ltd, Chris Adigwe (left); Compliance Officer, Stanbic/IBTC Pension, Idu Okwuosa, Executive Secretary, Penop, Susan Oranye, and Media Consultant, Kurioucity Ltd, Femi Opadere, at the Penop rally to sensitise workers on the importance of opening retirement savings account in Lagos PHOTO: FEMI ADEBESIN-KUTI

Director, CE,EBT & IT, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Sunil Kumar (left); Brand Ambassador, Samsung, Kate Henshew, MD, Samsung Electronics West Africa Ltd, Brovo Kim, and Head, Consumer Electronics, Samsung, Parikshir Chandna, during the Samsung product launch /media parley in Lagos PHOTO; SUNDAY AKINLOLU

Railway workers at the Labour Day celebration at the Eagles Square, Abuja …Yesterday PHOTO: PHILIP OJISUA

MD/CEO, FSDH Merchant Bank Limited, Mr. Rilwan Belo-Osagie (left); Mr. Osaro Isokpan, chairman, FSDH Merchant Bank, Mrs. Oyindamola Ehiwere, company secretary, at the banks AGM in Lagos on Wednesday

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Monday, May 5, 2014

WorldReport Diplomatic Perspective: The Missing Link Between International Economy And Foreign Policy

Why the gaps must be closed, by Ambassador Cole In practice, the nexus between international economy and foreign policy must be properly situated in the analyses of the foreign policy of any nation such as Nigeria’s. The understanding of global financial policy, economic trends, and international trade may also be regarded as a critical component in reporting external relations. It is the “economic section of Foreign Affairs” And a good understanding of this dynamic is like moving into higher orbit in the scheme of things. Since global political economy has in the past, and still today is an essential tool of diplomacy, it would be like an unforced error in Tennis if it is constantly ignored while discussing foreign policy in Nigeria. This encounter with the respected diplomat, Dr Dele Patrick Cole was far from being a formal interview but enough insight was provided into this all important aspect of international relations and why Nigeria must close the gaps that have become more and more noticeable. The idea of finding the threads of the missing link in the yawning gulf between economic trends and foreign policy and how it will stand even the Nigerian media in good stead, was central to the friendly conversation. Issues identified for diplomatic dissection include the interest rate conundrum in Nigeria, the recent rebasing exercise, as well as the hoax of financial dealings and the harmful shadows of the “Foreign Direct Investment” that ultimately hurts Nigeria’s foreign affairs enterprise. The former managing director of Daily Times and erstwhile ambassador of Nigeria to Brazil had the lounge chat with Foreign Affairs Editor OGHOGHO OBAYUWANA. He started with the assertion that “in foreign affairs, there is an economic section, and somebody there ought to be pointing these things out to somebody somewhere” THE ECONOMICS OF NIGERIA’S IMAGE OOkING at a clear case of the mixed fortunes of what Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) means to the rest of the world, he said: “The image (Nigeria’s) outside has improved than ever before except in terms of corruption. When you have a country where in the past four years or so, this is what foreigners are seeing. That you are one of the emerging countries, your GDP is averaging 7.5 percent or 8 percent and that opportunities for making money exists, in a way in which we can see the prime example is new the media, broadband technology and IT and all that, because 15 years ago, it was not there. In other-wards, on the table of the successful, we are now being invited not because we shouted that we ought to be there but we are invited because the figures of our economy suggests that we have a right to be there. Because if our GDP was not growing and we are properly a basket case, then they will probably ignore you more or they would be fairly interventionist in making sure that

Cole their assets are protected. On the one hand this is happening,... But then we must not forget that the GDP may be growing, and yet poverty is also growing side by side” What are the implications of this for Nigeria’s international politics? He went into the re-basing debate. REBASING: A FARCE? “If the normal rebasing is every five years, why not do it five years, then the next five years and on and on. Why wait for twenty years and then do it a year before your elections and then make a lot of noise about it. That’s so far as I am concerned, if you are honest and straightforward, you should have been doing it so that it is done fairly regularly and to have the debates over it. But to have this debate means to say, you see what you are producing, and like you said, oh, it’s a measure of the reality on ground, well, you can talk from now to Jericho and tell somebody that there is no connection between those figures and the election around the corner, well that’s rubbish. In fact, if I were a trade unionist, this year I would go on strike. It is simple. You are rich, then you pay. That’s what you are saying. You tell me that the GDP does not mean anything, it means something, otherwise, why are you jumping up and down for it” “You see, the workers have a right to benefit from the rise of your so called GDP. In any case, there are three other issues, which are of fundamental importance. One. It makes no sense for you to talk about the GDP, let us assume when it was eight percent and an inflation of nine percent. That’s not close. See what I mean? And it is even more idiotic for

you to have a base rate of borrowing, which is in two digits. When the rest of the world is going two percent, three percent. Central Bank itself even what it is borrowing from its own people is paying 12 and a half percent, 13 percent. If you now want to borrow from your bank, you double that. What kind of a banking situation is that? 26 percent. So the only thing you can do is trade. That is hoping that you can quickly recoup, something about quickly changing the money, and pay off or because it is only trade that can be embarked upon and so when you are borrowing the money, you are looking at, it’s either you are looking at subsidies which recognise that, so you go to the bank and you borrow money in order to pay for oil, you know, refined oil or whatever, that’s if you have it, but the rate of borrowing is already recognised in: what is in that subsidy. Plus the fact that all kinds of scenarios emerge, so it has to be one of those” IN THE NAME OF FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENT (FDI) “Worse than that is the fact that anybody who has any excess dollar, overseas, you know, so called direct foreign investments, will come into Nigeria, give dollars, to us at the unofficial rate, the unofficial rate is let’s say 170, they lend it, buy your treasury bills, at 170. You have paid him, 12 percent, 13 percent. The dollar if he had left it in his own country, was one percent. So he brings it in here, 10 percent. There is already a five percent he has made in changing it. He gives it to you, you keep it in the bank. His bank, at no interest, after 91 days, you pay him12 percent. And now he changes it back at the official rate.

You know you can make so much money just doing this?...You work it out yourself say one million dollars, I am going to bring into. Nigeria. In 91 days, this is what it’s going to give you. Calculate it. There are no risks, these are government bonds, triple backed. There is no way it’s going to get lost. So you leave it, you take the interest out of it. You keep it again for another 91 days and everything is happening... Now, all of us are in the same market. Now you are a contractor. You have been asked to build this house. You go to the bank, you are paying 20 percent interest. You have bought cement, you bought this, you bought that,...and you have Julius. Berger (a foreign company) it borrows one million US dollars at two percent. You can compute the figures, you can’t compete. you can’t. Both of you are working here. His own borrowing is backed from outside. Yours is backed from inside and you know, this... CONSEQUENCES UNANNOUNCED “Our people (Nigerian) must be suffering currently. It stands to reason that they must be suffering. So it’s either we are running an economy for the benefit of others or not mindful of the booby traps. You have an inflation rate here of 8-9 percent. In the country where the man is borrowing the money from, they have an inflation of only about two percent. Have you heard anybody who is tackling this transparently, who is in charge of the economy? have you ever heard any of them talking about reducing inflation? Have you ever heard any of them (coordinators of the economy) talking about reducing the bank borrowing rate in Nigeria? Now, this is a very crucial matter. You cannot be coordinating the economy if you are not dealing with this. I keep saying, these are questions journalists should be asking. If you do not push them, they will give you all these nonsense platitudes that don’t mean anything. They say oh, inflation is coming down. Two years ago, three years ago, it was 13 percent, now it is nine percent. But the issue should be how to bring it down to 2, or 3 percent. This is what other countries have. And they say the only way to bring it down is by production, increase production but where are you creating the production? How exactly are you enhancing this production? As for the bank, it is totally artificial, there is nothing they do with any body here it’s all the argument of putting the interest rate high is that you are mopping up excess liquidity. You don’t need to mop up any excess liquidity. The man doesn’t know where to keep the money... Because right now, you are having issues. For example, what the United States tax for now, and I am sure it’s going to change, in the next five, six, ten years...you see, the west have been very clever, they are having two currencies controlled by them. So even China has to borrow dollars. So things you buy from China are calculated in dollars. That’s why they can do what they are doing with Iran and now they are going to do it with Russia, because, Russia doesn’t have any currency except US dollar or the Euros. As for what’s happening around Russia, if I were Putin, I will go to China, I will say do me a favour, just dump some dollars over there. you are the one holding their money. Because once you begin to dump dollars in the US, their economy is going to feel it and they will stop worrying you. Where we are going to now in the world is that these two people, can at any time they want , do whatever they want to anybody- Europe and America. So if Russia cooperates with China in this light, they can upturn the table. We did it to the Sterling, it fell. Nigeria alone. We had so much money in the sterling and said ok , we move it to another currency. Which is one of the reasons why the British changed their attitude in Rhodesia (Zimbabwe).

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Monday, May 5, 2014 WORLD REPORT

Ukraine PM appeals for unity after Odessa tragedy KRAINE’S prime minister yesterday visited the city where a horrific blaze killed dozens of pro-Russian demonstrators during political riots, seeking to defuse mounting tensions by calling the deaths a “tragedy for all Ukraine.” Arseniy Yatsenyuk said police were being investigated for their failure to maintain order in Friday’s violence, while hinting strongly that he sees Moscow’s hand in the events. “This is not a tragedy only for Odessa,” Yatsenyuk said. “This is a tragedy for all Ukraine.” The prime minister said he has charged prosecutors with “finding all instigators, all organizers and all those that under Russian leadership began a deadly attack on Ukraine and Odessa.” More than 40 people died in the unrest — some from gun-

Pro-Russian militants, who were arrested during a Ukrainian unity rally on May 2, after police freed them following the storming of a police station in the southern Ukrainian city of Odessa…yesterday. PHOTO: AFP

Kerry urges DR Congo’s Kabila to respect term limits NITED States Secretary of U State, John Kerry yesterday urged Democratic Republic of Congo’s youthful President, Joseph Kabila to respect constitutional term limits and not seek re-election in 2016. “I believe that it is clear to him (Kabila) that the United States of America feels very strongly, as do other people, that the constitutional process needs to respected,” Kerry said on a visit to Kinshasa. “He’s a young man with an enormous amount of time to be able to continue to contribute to his country.” U.S special envoy to the Great Lakes region, Russ Feingold went further, saying “we don’t want” the 42-year-old Kabila to change the constitution or seek a third term. “What Africa needs is not strongmen but strong institutions,” said Feingold, who is accompanying Kerry on his trip. Kabila became Africa’s youngest leader at 29 when he was propelled into office after the death of his father in 2001 at the height of a civil war that became known as “Africa’s Great War”. Kabila’s father, LaurentDesire Kabila had led a rebel movement in the vast former Belgian colony that overthrew the dictator, Mobutu Sese Seko in 1997. The young Kabila won elec-

tions in 2006 and 2011 amid cries of foul play, and many in the opposition fear that Kabila’s inner circle is hoping he will seek a third term. But several diplomats and DR Congo experts think Kabila has not decided what to do in 2016, saying that he may indeed step aside but not without guarantees about his future. Kerry said: “I have no doubt that President Kabila’s legacy will be defined by the progress he has made ... particularly the last year in addressing the security issues

in the east (and) the economic issues of the country.” As a sign of US “commitment”, Kerry announced that the United States would provide funding of $30 million (almost 22 million euros) “to support transparent and credible elections as well as recovery and reconstruction programmes in eastern DRC”. Recalling the 2011 polls, Feingold noted suggestions that “the international community was not adequately engaged early enough.” In 2016, he said, it “will be engaged”.

S’Sudan rebel leader casts doubt on direct peace talks HE leader of South Sudan’s T rebels, Riek Machar has cast doubt on the prospect of imminent face-to-face talks with President Salva Kiir despite pressure from the United States, a report said yesterday. The independent Sudan Tribune website said it interviewed Machar in a rebel-held part of the country after a visit to the region by U.S. Secretary of State, John Kerry, who brandished the threat of sanctions if either Kiir or Machar fail to end the four-month-old civil war. But the website quoted Machar as saying he was unhappy with Kerry’s calls for direct talks between the two leaders and the formation of a transitional government in

the country, which only won independence from Khartoum in 2011. “I asked him (Kerry) what would be the purpose of transitional government? It would not be workable without a programme to implement before elections come,” Machar was quoted as saying. “We need to have a peace agreement first with a new constitution. Putting transitional government first is not realistic,” he said, adding that face-to-face talks “may be counter-productive”. Kerry visited South Sudan on Friday and secured agreement from Kiir to meet with Machar in Addis Ababa in the coming days, with Ethiopian Prime Minister, Hailemariam Desalegn acting as mediator.

First openly gay bishop to divorce husband HE first openly gay T Episcopal bishop, who became a symbol for gay rights far beyond the church while deeply dividing the world’s Anglicans, plans to divorce his husband. Bishop Gene Robinson announced the end of his marriage to Mark Andrew in an email sent to the Diocese of New Hampshire, where he served for nine years before retiring in 2012. Robinson would not disclose details about the end of their 25-year relationship but wrote Sunday in The Daily Beast he owed a debt to Andrew “for standing by me through the challenges of the last decade.” “It is at least a small comfort to me, as a gay rights and marriage equality advocate, to know that like any marriage, gay and lesbian couples are

subject to the same complications and hardships that afflict marriages between heterosexual couples,” Robinson wrote. “All of us sincerely intend, when we take our wedding vows, to live up to the ideal of ‘til death do us part. But not all of us are able to see this through until death indeed parts us.”

Robinson did not respond yesterday to email and phone requests for comment from The Associated Press. Robinson has never been fully accepted within the more than 70 million-member Anglican Communion, which is rooted in the Church of England and represented in the United States by the Episcopal Church.

Kerry, who met with electoral officials during his visit, added: “Obviously, it is very clear that the (election) dates and the process need to be set and fully defined and the sooner, the better.” The Independent National Electoral Commission has sketched out a roadmap leading to the 2016 presidential polls including elections that must precede them, but no dates have been set, and the modalities of some of the votes have been the subject of acrimonious debate. Kerry also urged DR Congo leaders to continue their efforts to pacify the volatile east of the country.

shot wounds, but most in a fire that tore through a trade union building. Odessa is the major city between the Crimean peninsula, which Russia annexed in March, and the Moldovan separatist region of Trans-Dniester where Russia has a military peacekeeping contingent. Concerns are mounting that Russia ultimately aims to take control of a huge swath of Ukraine from Trans-Dniester to the east. Yatsenyuk’s visit came as Ukrainian authorities renewed their push to quell a proRussian insurgency in the east. Interior Minister Arsen Avakov said in a statement on his Facebook page that an “antiterrorist operation” was being executed in the eastern city of Kramatorsk, the latest flashpoint for unrest. “The operation was carried out by fighters of the National Guard and the armed forces. The active phase resumed at dawn. We will not stop,” Avakov wrote. The city saw a standoff Saturday that culminated in pro-Russian insurgents setting buses alight to ward off attacks. Russian state television has reported 10 deaths, including two among government forces, during clashes in Kramatorsk so far. Those figures could not be independently confirmed. By midday yesterday, however, there was little sign of movement, from either government or insurgents on the ground. The burned-out shells of trolleybuses and a minibus lay in the road untouched.

Syria court accepts Assad’s presidential nomination bid SYRIAN court said yesterA day it had accepted requests from President Bashar al-Assad and two other candidates to be nominated to run in a presidential election next month. Assad’s challengers are unlikely to pose a serious threat to the president in the June 3 vote, which his international opponents and the rebels fighting to overthrow him have dismissed as a farce. Syria’s opposition leaders in exile are barred from standing by a constitutional clause requiring candidates to have lived in the country continuously for 10 years. The constitution also says candidates must have the backing of 35 members of the pro-Assad parliament, effectively ruling out dissenting voices from the campaign. The Supreme Constitutional Court had accepted nomination requests from Assad as well as Hassan Abdallah alNouri and lawmaker Maher Abdel-Hafiz Hajjar, court spokesman, Majid Khadra said in statements broadcast on state television. He said those whose requests had been rejected had a right to appeal to the court from May 5 until May 7. Authorities have not said how they will hold the vote in a country where six million people have been displaced and large swathes of territory remain outside government control. Another 2.5 million refugees have fled Syria, many smuggling themselves across the frontier to avoid Assad’s security forces.

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Monday, May 5, 2014

Politics THE NATIONAL CONFERENCE DEBATE

Need to involve indigenous religion people in confab (1) Sidelining indigenous religion people from confab is neo-colonialism of majority by minority By Oba Adedayo Olusino Adekoya E are “Isese Agbaye” people who follow W the Indigenous religion as handed down to us by our foe-parents. “Isese Agbaye” is the umbrella name and body for all Indigenous religions, beliefs and practices such as Osun, Ogun, Akan, Santeria, Obatala, Ifa, Kufai, Balen, Oya, Lukumi, Loa, Candomble, Sango, Amadioha, Yemoja, Anasa, Ekpe, Enabor, Mamiwota, Olomolu, etc., to mention just a few because of space, which are all denominations. Isese Agbaye has followership in all 37 states of the country, including the Federal Capital Territory. There are also branches and affiliates in 37 countries of the world operating our 2002 Constitution, Creed and Holy Grill. I, Oba Dr. Adedayo Olusino Adekoya (Erinsiba I) is the Legusen of Ode Ule in Remo North Local Government Area of Ogun State and humbly dual as the Oba Isese Agbaye, the President-General and Spiritual head of the Worldwide Isese Agbaye Community (WIAC). The Isese Agbaye International Headquarters that used to be in Brazil in South America was moved to Ode Ule Nigeria in 2002. We declared Nigeria as the “Holy land of Isese Agbaye” and people now come regularly on pilgrimage to Nigeria. And the obvious advantages to the economy of the country is already being enjoyed since the past 15 years, as it climaxes with the World Ero Day festival, a 21-day event that finalises every 6th of September annually. At a recent meeting of the Nigeria Conference Area of WIAC held at the International Headquarters, Ode Ule, it was concluded that we should seek the assistance of the press to make our feelings public and seek their support to redress whatever injustice we are going through. Our people are generally peasant community members, mostly uneducated in the Western way of things though very knowledgeable and full of native intelligence, peace-loving, accommodating and very trusting. They were taken for granted for too long and the world is changing fast. We, therefore, need your help to kindly assist in putting things right for posterity. We have had communications with government at all levels but the Federal Government seems to either dislike or hate us because each time they are doing anything, we are never invited. They prefer to treat us trivially by classifying the Indigenous religion as just culture and once they attend to their cultural troupes, they assume they have finished with our folklore. Why is it they don’t treat Christians and Muslims like that? We feel very bitter and have to express it openly because we are the owners of this our HOME. The last two religions have just come to live with us and they are attempting to choke us to death with the support of government, which should nurture all. Governments always threw Section 10 of the Constitution of Nigeria in our face when it comes to our turn to ask for our legitimate rights. However, when it comes to sending people to Mecca, Medina, Jerusalem and Rome, then it is people performing religious obligation that government has to make happy. We are peace-loving, accommodating and tolerant, as our religion teaches us. All we are asking for is to get our due from our country. Government should stop using double standard against us. What is good for the goose, they say, is good for the gander. We Isese people, too, deserve to be happy. We organise pilgrimage to Nigeria, the Holy land of Isese and we ask government to sup-

HRM Oba Olusino Adekoya (Erinsiba I) port the programme, which brings in hard currency to Nigeria and is having positive impact on the economy, but they refuse. We ask government to support and assist in our Cultural Exchange programme whereby we send knowledgeable Isese priests abroad to educate people and mobilise Isese followers to visit Nigeria on pilgrimage and propagate our ancestral religion abroad for the betterment of our country, thus exporting our ancient well-tested and world-acclaimed moral ideals like the Christian and Muslim home-based governments did and are still doing; our government refuses us. Instead of the millions of dollars spent on pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, The Vatican City in Rome, Israel and India, we are making people in USA, Trinidad and Tobago, Cuba, Barbados, Brazil, Venezuela and other South American and Caribbean countries, West

African countries and some European countries to come here on pilgrimage in our religion tourism programme. Yet, whenever we ask for support from our government, we are refused and totally ignored. Are we really part of this country at all? We are aware that we still form the majority of the people of this country despite the manipulated figures jostled around. E, Isese people, know that we form at W least 60 per cent of the population whatever the nominal data being bandied around by some people. We believe that we are undergoing a statemachinated, organised and supported malevolent discrimination. We are asked to fill forms with the options for other religions’ names minus that of our Isese reli-

Sidelining the Isese religion people and even the indigenous knowledge people from the conference that would determine the fate of a country in which they form the real majority is a sort of neo-colonialism of the majority by the opportune minority. This may not augur well for all of us at the end of the day. Indigenous religion, Isese people should constitute at least 60 per cent of the delegates to the on-going National Conference and other arms of government and governance because we constitute not less than that in what is now Nigeria. It is because the minority elites are the ones that are calling the shots that we are having problems moving forward. By condemning everything that is indigenous, we are throwing the baby out with the bath water. Other peoples and developed countries built their development on the foundation of their indigenous knowledge systems. That is what we should do.

gion. We are referred to take surety from Christian and Islamic clerics before we can attend schools, take contracts, collect driver’s licence, register our births, register our dead, get connected to the national electricity grills and water corporation pipes, pay for hackney permits, import and export farm produce, goods and materials. We are thus forcefully made to bear foreign names and wear foreign dresses. We are forced to speak in foreign tongues and languages and our children are being turned away from their source. Isese Agbaye people are dehumanised and made to feel inferior in their own land and are treated as animals, not even second or thirdrate citizens. The forced arm-twisting conversion of our sacred sites and shrines are seen as medals won as laurels. The more any of these foreign religionists can label any of our children in their own empty names; they hail themselves as if they had won an Olympic medal. We believe in the God of our ancestors and not in the God of other people’s ancestors. We believe in that creative phenomenon, which located us in the most habitable part of the world, not where they experience ultra-dry, ultra-hot or ultra-cold. We believe in that one who gave us the kind of land where you do not need to sweat to get seeds germinate and produce food. The one who chose us as the best in the whole universe and satisfied us with everything that we did not need to start finding our ways to other parts of the world to satisfy our needs because we are extremely satisfied and comfortable. The one that gave us everything in abundance is the one our ancestors worship. We do not believe in the God that 91 elders of the people went to wine and dine with on a mountain and always gave them orders to go and slaughter thousands of people from another tribe in order to take over their more fertile land. The Creator we follow disapproves of human sacrifice and the celebration of such in any form. Towards amalgamation in 1914, only the colonialists, Christians and Muslims took part in the discussions on which the final decisions were made. The Isese people were completely left out. Unfortunately, in 2014 when we have self-rule and the amalgamation is being reconsidered (at the National Conference), we, Isese people, are not being invited and we are being sidelined again. This is a very dangerous trend in these contemporary modern times. Obviously, whatever conclusion is arrived at may not be binding on us. We shall only see it as a Christian-Muslim agenda to perpetuate them. This may be seen as an attempt to sweep the indigenous peoples, their religions, tradition, language, ways of life and their total folklore totally out of existence. As very responsible people, we wish to point this out for immediate correction in order to deliberately prevent future preventable issues and challenges that may develop out of such a serious oversight. We see all that is happening as internal imperialism but the age of imperialism is gone forever. Discrimination between people based on their race, creed, colour, economic status, health status, religious belief, geography, entomology and any other factor for that matter must be abolished. This is the minimum we expect and that is what we shall get. That is what will make us comfortable to be a part of whatever shall become of the country we are refurbishing. • His Royal Majesty, Oba Adedayo Olusino Adekoya (Erinsiba I), President-General of the Worldwide Isese Agbaye Community (WIAC), presented this memo on behalf of ‘Isese Agbaye’ Religion People.

Monday, May 5, 2014 13

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

EKITI 2014

O’odua group backs Tinubu’s stance

17 candidates emerge Stories by Muyiwa Adeyemi (Head, Southwest Bureau, Ado-Ekiti)

IGHTEEN governorship candiE dates will contest the June 21 governorship election in Ekiti, the State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Alhaji Halilu Pai, said in a statement. He also released names of the running mates to the candidates. Of the 18 candidates and their deputies, only four are women. However, INEC says the 18 parties and their candidates still have up till May 18, 2014 to substitute names of either the candidates or their deputies ahead of the poll. The list gave the names, age, occupations, as well as qualifications of all the candidates and their running mates. A breakdown of the list shows that the incumbent governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, 49, a PhD holder, will run along with his deputy, Prof. Modupe Adelabu, aged 63. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has former Governor Ayo Fayose, 53, an HND holder, as candidate while his deputy is Mr. Joshua Olusola-Ojo, a Grade 2 Certificate holder, aged 80. For the Labour Party (LP), INEC affirmed Mr. Opeyemi Bamidele, 51, a lawyer, as candidate while his deputy is Mrs. Bolanle Bruce, 47, a journalist and holder of a PostGraduate Diploma in Journalism. The Accord has Mr. Kole Ajayi, born 1967, a publisher and lawyer as candidate while his deputy is Mr. Akinyemi Adeola, born 1974 and holds a BSc degree. The Action Alliance (AA) has Mr. Opeyemi Akinyemi, 46, a holder of Secondary School certificate, as candidate while his deputy is Mrs. Taiwo Phebe, 35, as running mate. Citizens Popular Party (CPP) has Mr. Ayodele Olayinka, born 1975 and a holder of HND certificate as candidate while his deputy is Mr. Oluwafemi Idowu, born in 1986

Fayemi and holder of BSc. The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has Mr. Adekola Ayo born 1954, an engineer, as candidate while his deputy is Mr. Ayeni Isaac, born 1987 and a holder of WAEC certificate. The KOWA Party has Pastor Ade Joseph, born in 1953 and a holder of a Diploma Certificate as candidate while his deputy is Mr. Oluwadare Fagboro, born in 1951 and holds a School certificate. The National Conscience Party (NCP) has Mr. Ilesanmi Emmanuel (1956) and a holder of a School certificate as candidate while his deputy, Mrs. Adegoro Adeolu, born in 1972, holds a School certificate. The Mega Progressive Peoples Party (MPPP) has Mr. Akinbola Joseph, born 1948 and a holder of an MSc as candidate while his deputy is Mr. Kayode Durodola, born in 1945 and a holder of a BSc certificate.

The United Democratic Party (UDP) has Mr. Adeniyi Philip, born in 1968 and a holder of B.Ed. certificate as candidate while his deputy is Mr. Kunle Adeolu, 1971 and a holder of WASC. The governorship candidate of Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN) is Mr. Peter Bamigbade, born 1960 and a holder of Diploma certificate while his deputy is Mrs. Comfort Ibrahim, born 1978 and holds a WASSC. The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has Mr. Okoko Bola, born 1951 and a holder of BSc, as candidate while his deputy is Mr. Ogundipe Lawrence, born 1977 and holds a WASC. The African Peoples Alliance (APA) has Mr. Adebayo Ogunlola, born in 1969 and holds a BSc, as candidate while his deputy is Mrs. Feyisayo Margaret, born 1959 and hold a WASC. The Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) has Mr. Animasanu Goke, born 1978 and holds an OND, as candidate while his deputy is Mr. Agunbiade Ayokunle, born 1978 and a holder of an NCE. For Alliance for Democracy (AD), Osekita Victor will fly its ticket. He was born on February 5, 1968, and holds an HND in Accountancy while his deputy is Mr. Alle Kehinde, born in November 9, 1970. He holds a first degree in Business Administration. Peoples Party of Nigeria (PPN) will field Gbenga Adekunle as its governorship candidate. He was born on October 22, 1952 and holds an HND while his deputy is Mr. Rufus Kehinde, born November 23, 1953 and has a diploma in Theatre Arts. For the People for Democratic Change (PDC), Mr. Banjo Gboyega, born April 19, 1964 and has an MBA will fly its ticket while Mr. Lawal Olatunde, born February 21, 1974 and holds a BSc, is the running mate.

Fayose slams Fayemi over plan to establish institute in Ifaki OVERNOR Kayode G Fayemi’s administration’s plan to establish an Institute of Medical Technology in Ifaki-Ekiti, Ido/Osi Local Government of Ekiti State has been described as a “Greek gift” that should be rejected by the people of Ifaki-Ekiti. The candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the June 21 governorship poll in the state, Mr. Ayodele Fayose slammed the plan as wicked. The Director General of Ayo Fayose Campaign Organisation (AFCO), Chief Dipo Anisulowo, holding brief for the PDP candidate said the planned institute was an insult on the people of Ifaki-Ekiti. “It is only a wicked government that will take away a university from a community and come back three years after with a plan to replace it with an Institute of Medical Technology,” he said. “Or isn’t it an act of wickedness to take a 18-seater bus from someone and replace it with okada (motorbike)?” Anisulowo reiterated the promise of Mr. Fayose to return the University of Science and Technology, Ifaki-Ekiti (USTI), which was scrapped by the Fayemi

administration. “What Ifaki people deserve is a return of USTI and that is exactly what they will get the moment PDP takes over power on October 16, 2014,” he said. “Fayemi, out of his hatred for Segun Oni (a former governor of the state), closed down USTI after a Education Summit that was programmed to work towards a pre-determined answer. “As at the time USTI was scrapped, the university already had an arrangement with a South Korean university to run an exchange programme that will give the students the opportunity of earning dual certificates. “Thirty-six students of USTI were already billed to travel to South Korea for the programme before the university was scrapped.” Anisulowo said the first question the alleged retrogressive All Progressives Congress (APC) government in Ekiti State must answer is: Why was the full-fledged Science and Technology University that the PDP government of Engr. Segun Oni established in Ifaki-Ekiti scrapped? “How can a right-thinking government close down a

HE O’odua Nationalist Coalition T (ONAC) has expressed support for the warning issued by the national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Tinubu, a former Lagos State governor, said that those planning to rig the elections in the twin states of Ekiti and Osun would be met with people’s resistance. The statement, couched in a “rig and roast” threat, has riled members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who have called for Tinubu’s arrest. However, in a statement by its Director of Publicity, Mr. Popoola Ajayi, the coalition said: “Rig and roast is an old slogan of the people of the Southwest. It is our tradition to quickly roast those who want to bury our people alive. “It is our cherished custom to tell vicious tyrants that appear deaf and dumb to our yearnings for a free and fair election that those who make peaceful change impossible make violent change inevitable.” ONAC alleged that members of the PDP in Osun and Ekiti had been boasting that their candidates would be declared winners even if they lost in the elections — the same manner those candidates emerged in the PDP primaries. The coalition said: “We hear of threats of killings and murders. It comes to a stage in life that when the future of a people is at stake, such threats no longer matter, more so that the victory of such people will only visit greater destruction and death on our people. “We endorse the position of Senator Tinubu. On this issue, he spoke the mind of the generality of Yoruba people. It is in our 5,000(-year) rich history to resist oppression and tyranny in all forms. “Today’s Federal Government mirrors exactly the draconian regimes of the past that took the Yoruba people for granted to the peril of the entire Nigerian federation.” It stated that the Southwest has been quiet but watchful, “not because we cannot react to the series of oppression our people have witnessed under the federal might.”

HE national leadership of T the Labour Party (LP) has promised that the party

thriving university, only to replace it with a School of Science and Laboratory Technology and now Institute of Medical Technology? “That, to us, is Greek gift packaged to deceive the people of Ifaki-Ekiti so as to get their votes. “But that will not work because the people already have confidence and trust in the ability of the in-coming PDP government to return the university that Fayemi took away from Ifaki-Ekiti. “Our promise to Ifaki people is that Fayose’s government will return USTI, and we advise Fayemi and his men to stop insulting Ifaki people.”

“We assure the Federal Government that our people in Ekiti and Osun States will use all legitimate means to defend the gains of democracy, no matter how little.” The pan-Yoruba group alleged that President Goodluck Jonathan and the entire PDP leadership were desperate to win Osun and Ekiti, “even if the people living in the two states no longer exist.” It added: “This is a self-defeatist boast. It is empty because no arsenal in any military formation is more than the will of a people. “Our forefathers, our 5,000 years of history, our resilience, our global networking and our unbroken spirit will make the wicked agenda to impose rogues on Yoruba people fail woefully. “We in the Yoruba movement think rigging the election in the two states has the potential of making the presidential election impossible and we see any rigging as a crisis that may snowball into a national crisis.” The group said it was left for President Jonathan to decide “whether he wants to rule over Yoruba people forcefully in his own terms or in the terms of our people’s freewill based on informed choice.”

LP promises to run unusual govt

Bamidele

Fayose

Tinubu

would run an unusual and people-centred government in Ekiti State if its candidate, Mr. Opeyemi Bamidele, “is elected” in the June 21 governorship election. The party also promised to reduce tuition fees in tertiary institutions in the state and run an administration with human face. The party leadership, led by its national chairman, Mr. Dan Nwanyanwu, spoke in Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday at a mega rally held to drum support for Bamidele. Nwanyanwu, a lawyer, called on the people to vote for the LP for uncommon transformation of the state, noting that Bamidele took the best decision to join the party. “There is no godfather who will bring you the lists of com-

missioners if he wins the election,” Nwanyanwu said, adding that, “there is no imposition and there will be no capital flight when we (LP) assume leadership of the state.” He pledged that electorate would enjoy the good programmes of the party, such as being implemented in Ondo State by the Olusegun Mimiko administration. Nwanyanwu said that the party would reduce the fees being paid by all students in the state to the barest minimum, as it is in Ondo State, “so that the children of the masses and the poor will enjoy good education, and good health facilities among the dividend of democracy.” He, however, condemned the leadership in Ekiti State, advising the people to “shine your eyes (so) that those who claimed to be progressives are not progressives in all their dealings with the people democratically.” Also at the rally, Governor Mimiko urged Ekiti people to vote Bamidele as their next governor, “who is a man of character, integrity and a man who has a combination of uncommon virtue with experience to deliver the good of democracy.” Mimiko, who said Bamidele would play politics of inclusiveness and not politics of exclusiveness, said the candidate would provide jobs “so

that life will be more meaningful for the people.” On his part, Bamidele promised to provide unusual leadership in Ekiti State and said he would not go to the capital market to borrow money to run the state. He described Governor Fayemi as lacking in creativity in the running of the state. He said he would provide qualitative education to the state’s students, and human capital development that would grow the economy of the state through industrialisation, which would be agro-allied based with public-private partnership. The LP candidate, who said he was not desperate to be governor of the state, criticised the leadership in the state, stressing, “they lack resource manager in the name of corporate leadership to lead the state in the right direction.” Besides, Bamidele promised that he would bring back the Oodua textile industry that had been sold-off, to create more jobs for the teaming youths and the population in the state. Stating that he feels passionate about the development of the state, he told teachers that their help was on the way. “I will bring to an end the sufferings of the teachers in Ekiti,” he said, assuring overseas training and capacity-building for all of them.

TheGuardian

14 | Monday, May 5, 2014

www.ngrguardiannews.com

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 Nyako and Nigeria’s unity dAMAwA State Governor Murtala Hamman Yero Nyako’s memo titled ‘On Ongoing Full-fledged Genocide in Northern Nigeria’, is a divisive message that should have no place in Nigeria’s political space. Addressed to just a section of the country, it is one alarmist correspondence that will do nothing to ameliorate the worsening security condition of the nation but instead widen existing cleavages and fan the embers of disunity. It is quite heartening that all the governors in the federation, at a security meeting the other day, were united in their condemnation of the letter. Granted that it may have been written partly out of frustration with the way the central government under dr. Goodluck Jonathan is handling the deteriorating security, political, and social situation especially in the north-eastern part of the country; granted too, that the governor, being in the thick of events, feels, like his other colleagues, the heat of the Boko Haram sect’s terrorist acts; nevertheless, in content and in form, that ‘memo’ to the political leadership of only a section of the Nigerian nation was improper. The language was indecorous and inappropriate to the high office Nyako occupies, and the assertions that some would even describe as wild and unguarded, were just that – mere claims not backed by evidence. This accusatory missive is characterized with factual errors and false comparison, seethes with disdain and drips with invectives. with frightening words like ‘genocide’,‘ ‘bullshit’, ‘evil-mindedness’ ‘massacre’ and ‘atrocities’, it is a piece that, even as it pretends to address an urgent and important national issue, is severely diminished in appeal and concern. It is further rendered unacceptable by, first, being directed to a section of the whole and second being substantially focused on ‘northern’ concerns and fears. If, as the saying goes, the problem of a part is the problem of the whole, for the reason that the clear and present danger threatens everyone -high and low, the patriot in Nyako should have addressed his memo not only to his ‘fellow Governors and Citizens of the North’ but to the ‘fellow good people’ of ‘Mother Nigeria’ that he sees ‘ on the verge of disaster’. That is the least expected of a statesman which, as a former Chief of Naval Staff and deputy Chief of defence Staff of the Federal republic of Nigeria Alas, Nyako is supposed to be. This letter contains weighty, even frightful, allegations. It says that Jonathan’s ‘evilminded’ administration ‘is bent on bringing wars in the North between Muslims and Christians, and within them, between one ethnic group and another’; that ‘organised kidnappers must have the backing of the federal administration for them to move freely with abducted children just as those who convey ammunitions and explosives from the ports to the safe houses of so-called Boko Haram in the North’, that the people of Northern Nigeria ‘are now facing an organised ethno- religious campaign of hate fuelled by the Federal administration...’, that recently recruited soldiers of northern origin, ‘being poorly trained, totally ill-equipped, given only uniform ,...are killed by their trainers in Nigerian Army training centres ...’. Coming from a former senior military officer and a sitting state governor, no one would treat these with levity and the Federal Government should investigate all these thoroughly. The letter is however divisive, rabble-rousing and because it seeks to pit a section of Nigeria against another, the implication of its content is dangerous to the polity. How can anyone reasonably think that Boko Haram phenomenon is a hoax and that the Federal Government has deliberately unleashed such destructiveness upon its own citizenry? But, in order to assure Nigerians of President Goodluck Jonathan’s credibility as a person and the commitment of his administration to the saferty of all citizens, Vice -Admiral Murtala Nyako’s large claims need to be investigated. It must also be put on record that Governor Nyako has certainly invested too much energy into writing this memo – and generally, into bad-mouthing President Jonathan and his government at home and abroad. The impression now is that he is distracted from his core duty of governing Adamawa State just as he has become a distraction for the central government, and the Nigerian public. whereas well- meaning criticisms are in order in a democratic society, Nyako would be of greater help if he would be more analytical in his submissions, as well as offer specific, practical solutions to the problems that confronting the country. Indeed, as a well-trained security professional with huge experience, his thinking and suggestions would be of tremendous use It is advisable that anyone who would comment on the Boko Haram threat to this country should thoroughly think through his or her position and propose solutions instead of stating the obvious lapses or trading blames. with that ‘memo’, Nyako has successfully opened himself up to accusations of being motivated by political considerations. The 2015 elections, afterall. are close and impugning the leadership capability as well as the political reputation of an opponent may be game but never to the detriment of the unity and stability of Nigeria. If Governor Nyako’s correspondence was rife with unsubstantiated claims expressed in a foul language, the presidency has sought to out-do him in villainy. And the response has been hasty. First, a president or presidency cannot and need not respond to every criticism. For strategic reasons as well as for effect, he must pick and choose which battle to fight. Secondly, it bears repeating that the Federal Government must be less touchy and less personal about the contents of criticisms such as Nyako’s. It should take such seriously and respond to them with the thoroughness and sobriety appropriate to presidential stature. The indubitable truth is that insecurity in the land is transforming into a hydra-headed monster. That the President does not appear to grasp gravity of the problem his administration, and the country face is daily advertised by his sometimes frivolous words and deeds. Many Nigerians now find no reason to believe that this government has their ‘security and welfare’ as its ‘primary job. Nyako may have used a wrong medium and a foul language, his frustrations resonate with most Nigerians. President Jonathan should do all within his enormous presidential powers to prevent a groundswell of popular anger against his government.

LETTER

Buhari’s statement on terrorism The statement made SstatebyIr: and the former head of veteran presidential candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari and published by many newspapers, where he condemned in stronger terms, the April 14, 2014 bombing of Nyanya Motor Garage in Abuja which led to the untimely death of about 72 Nigerians and the April 15, 2014 abduction of about 234 girls of the Government Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State, by Boko Haram insurgency, was not only timely, but also inspiring, motivating, statesmanly, comforting and presidential. Buhari has become a factor in Nigerian politics, controversial to the extent that anything he says carries weight and capable of making or marring his image in the society. His many statements in the past have been misconstrued and used against him in his bid to rule this country through the ballot. Although, there are many people in the society who made inflammatory statements than Buhari but were ignored because of their social standing in the society, however, being in politics and eyeing the

highest political position in Nigeria, detractors are always eager to make mountain out of the mole hills each time Buhari speaks. The current statement has many implications on his image and personality and it is crystal clear that much emphasis may not be laid on it because it is devoid of loopholes which detractors would prey on to continue to paint Buhari black in the society. However, coming out boldly to condemn the insurgents in strong terms, and his call for a united action by all Nigerians to see to its total annihilation in spite of the threat to his life, upon which the federal government increased security around him and other prominent leaders prove beyond reasonable doubts that Buhari is innocent of the allegation linking him to insurgency. Buhari has also shown that it is possible, in spite of keen competition for power, for our leaders to rise above partisan politics to join the ruling party in this period of emergency and national calamity to find solution to a menace that is bent on seeing the nation on its knees.

His admonition to the government to improve and redefine its strategy in the light of this expanding menace” is highly encouraging and a pointer to the fact that if Nigerian leaders could rise above partisanship, socio political and economic problems facing the country would fizzle out within the shortest possible time. Another implication of the Buhari statement is that he has given the federal government a green light on his readiness (and that of the opposition party) to join hands with the federal government, other well-meaning Nigerians to end the menace of the Boko Haram insurgency. It is equally heartwarming to hear the response of President Goodluck Jonathan to Buhari statement. It is obvious that the president appreciated Buhari’s statesmanlike disposition in that statement and the president’s readiness to embrace Buhari and other members of opposition shows that the president means well for the nation and serious in his effort to end insecurity in this nation. • Adewuyi Adegbite, Apake, Ogbomoso.

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Opinion The heart of a mother By Cornelius Afebu Omonokhua S a child, I wondered how life could be withA out a mother. One day, I was praying with my mother and I said innocently, “Oh God, grant that I may die before my mother.” Suddenly, I felt a touch in my mouth with the scream of rejection from my mother, “God forbid, you must bury me!” My mother had used her left hand to shut up my mouth like a typical Etsako woman to cancel and rebuke the bad prayer. My mother had always prayed that she should die before me so that I would give him a befitting burial. Perhaps she did not know that I too never like her wish to die before me. As I was growing up, my sickness became her sickness, my pains her pains and my joys were her celebrations. Later in life, the love of my mother would make Prince Nico Mbarga’s lyrics “Sweet Mother” my personal song. Later in life, “My mother” of Ann Taylor (1782-1866) would become the favourite poem that I would recite and sing: “Who sat and watched my infant head, when sleeping on my cradle bed; and tears of sweet affection shed, my mother!” Nostalgia! I sang these lines again on Wednesday April 30, 2014 not for my mother of blessed memories but for the mothers who travelled all the way from Chibok to Abuja to protest the abduction of their daughters. I watched the tears of these mothers in Channels Television in the afternoon. From their eyes, I could imagine the pain in their hearts. I could imagine the wounds in their hearts that was deep enough for the attention of a cardiologists or a thoracic surgeon. The hearts of these women could have work extra time. The heart physician thinks that the heart beats 60-100 times a minute and pumps out about 2,000 gallons of blood every day. I doubt if this could apply to these mothers of sorrow. The psychologist gives the description of the heart with expressions of feeling, deep emotion, love, affection, mood and courage,

These mothers were not told that wild animals have devoured their girls or crushed in any form of automobile accident or plane crash. All that they know is that their daughters have been abducted by human beings who also have mothers and perhaps know the pain of child bearing. The media report is that twenty-four hours after the bomb explosion in Nyanya, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Nigeria on Tuesday April 14, 2014. About 234 girls were reported missing from the Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State. The students were at the school to write physics examination when the abductors struck, after midnight on April 14, 2014. The attacks on schools appear to be a rigorous realisation of their mission to eradicate Western Education, which for them is “sinful”. Some media reported that the extremists use the young girls as porters, cooks and sex slaves. Some claim that some of the girls who manage to escape said that they sometimes use helicopters to bring them food. The big questions: What happened to all the security agents in Borno State? How come that nobody could raise alarm? Who can unravel the mystery of this inhuman operation? Poor mothers! If they had a choice, they would have protected their daughters even in a basket like the mother of Moses against the tyranny of Pharaoh who ordered all newborn Hebrew boys to be slain immediately after birth (Exodus 2, 1-10). Some of these mothers must have yearned for motherhood like Hannah given that the heart of a mother only knows how to do what is best for her child, no matter the cost to herself. (1 Samuel 1, 1-28) The analysis of what the terrorists are doing with the girls is actually not the focus of this reflection. The concern is the mood and the emotional trauma the mothers have been subjected. What is the reaction of the fathers of these innocent girls? Could it be the case that the fathers do not care or they are simply helpless and have resigned to fate? One of the fathers of the girls told

the Agence France Presse on condition of anonymity: “We are poor with no influence whatsoever; we believe that is the reason the government does not care about our girls.” Unlike the anonymous father, Catrine Stewart reported on Wednesday April 30, 2014 that the mothers braved the heavy rain to march on parliament to demand intensified efforts by the government to rescue more than 200 missing schoolgirls abducted by the insurgents over a fortnight ago. They cried out not under anonymity but with placards: “Rescue them, mothers of abducted schoolgirls tell Nigerian government” (http://www.independent.co.uk). This further elucidates the role of a mother and the space a mother occupies in the life of a child. This also gives credence to the celebration of Mothers Day all over the world. In May 1905, Anna M. Jarvis made a vow to finish the work of her mother, Anna Maria Reeves Jarvis who had longed for a special holiday to honour mothers. It took her nine years to get President Wilson signed the official Mother’s Day resolution. Her mother was the founder of the Mother’s Day Work Clubs that raised money to provide medical help for mothers who had tuberculosis. The mother Anna had watched eight of her 12 children die before reaching adulthood. Near the end of the war, Anna organised a Mother’s Friendship Day at the courthouse to bring people of both sides together in peace. The mother died and the daughter Anna led a small service designed to honour her mother on May 12, 1907. In 1908, the first official Mother’s Day celebrations were held in West Virginia and in Philadelphia in 1908. Philadelphia was the first state to make Mother’s Day an official holiday in 1910, and by the next year, most states had declared a Mother’s Day holiday. Anna suffered in the hands of those who wanted to use mother’s day celebrations only for financial gains. She protested: “I wanted it to be a day of sentiment, not profit” (Cf. http://momof9splace.com). The Nigerian mothers should

be given a chance to celebrate the discovery of their abducted daughters. May these innocent children not be sold for money or used for rituals. Wherever these girls are kept, may God touch the hearts of the abductors to hear the cry of these mothers! May they remember that they too have or once had mothers! The child lives in the heart of the mother from the day of conception till the dusk of her life. This reminds me of a day I entered a shop to buy cards for some mothers. The first card I saw was beautiful but with just few words, “A mother holds her children’s hands for a little while and their hearts forever!” When it comes to children, the mother’s heart is pure. “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5, 8). If no one can help the Nigerian women to protect their children who have become victims of the enemies of the nation, I recommend all mothers to Jesus who says, “Come to me all you who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls” (Matthew 11, 28-29). Let us also recommend the mothers to the patronage of the mother of Jesus! Oh Blessed Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus and our mother also. You are an epitome of motherhood. You experienced the pains of a missing child when you searched for Jesus for three days (Luke 2, 46). Remember how you felt when Simeon told you “a sword would pierce through your heart that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed” (Luke 2, 35). Yet you pondered all these and the passion of your son in your heart (Luke 2, 19). Kindly look upon the affliction of these Nigerian mothers and pray that their daughters may be released immediately. • Fr. Prof. Omonokhua is the director of Mission and Dialogue of the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Abuja and Consultor of the Commission for Religious Relations with Muslims (C.R.R.M), Vatican City comonokhua@hotmail.com).

Health in Africa: Leapfrogging to success By Robert Greenhill, Mathieu Lamiaux and Wendy Woods HEN the 24th World Economic Forum on Africa convenes W in Abuja on May 7, the future development of good quality and sustainable health systems on the continent will be frontand-centre. A key issue in the talks will be how to design, pay for, and implement those systems. As emerging economies seek to catch up with more advanced health systems, they run the serious risk of maneuvering themselves into financially untenable situations if they try to replicate the path of developed economies. Nigeria, for example, currently has roughly 14 per cent of the number of doctors per capita of OECD countries. To catch up, we estimate that Nigeria would need approximately twelve times as many doctors by 2030, requiring, under current training models, about $ 51 billion, or ten times current annual Nigerian public health spending. This is not a feasible option for Nigeria. Historically, emerging economies have under-invested in health. More recently, as evidence of the positive impact of health investments on economic growth has become more evident, emerging economies have increased their health spending. From 1995 to 2012, their health expenditures grew at an annual rate of 7.4 per cent, driven by GDP growth as well as growing and aging population. It is expected to rise to nearly 11 per cent per year over the next eight years. However, higher investments do not necessarily directly translate into better health outcomes. South Korea, for example, spends only 25 per cent per capita (at 2035 USD per capita in 2010 PPP adjusted) what the United States spends (at 8200 USD per capita in 2010 PPP), yet still achieves better health outcomes (in terms of Health Adjusted Life Expectancy). South Korea’s experience can give confidence to African economies that there are ways to achieve large gains in health outcomes without breaking the bank. Emerging economies need to make the right investments now if they want to avoid the problems that developed economies encounter. The evolution of health systems is highly path-dependent: large-scale investments in infrastructure and workforce determine the course of development for decades to

come. Policy-makers now stand at a fork in the road and face two alternative paths: the familiar, but long, expensive and ultimately unsustainable path of developed economies – or a shortcut that leapfrogs over the problems experienced by developed economies and results in a system that provides better health outcomes, financial sustainability, and individual satisfaction. African economies are well suited to and would be better off taking the second path. Compared to developed economies, they have fewer impediments to change: fewer sunk costs of existing infrastructure and equipment, lower fixed costs from building overcapacity. And they have access to an array of innovations that did not previously exist. In developed economies, highly expensive innovations that were created to meet previous needs have tended to remain embedded in systems, even when circumstances have changed or when new, more cost-effective innovations have become available. In contrast, developing economies have the opportunity to bypass entire systems of obsolete innovations. A now-classic example is the introduction of mobile phones to remote areas of Africa. Those areas received the social and economic benefits of telephone networks without the sunk costs of massive landline infrastructure. They “leapfrogged” past an entire stage of development, going directly from little or no telephone service to the same, efficient technology used in developed countries. “Leapfrogging” means applying innovation to accelerate the development of a system, or to skip over costly development stages that had been previously unavoidable. To be considered leapfrogging in health systems, in our view, a change must meet three distinct criteria: it must reduce the time needed to get results; it must achieve the same or better results at the same or lower costs than traditional methods; and it must accommodate expansion efficiently. For emerging economies, especially those in Africa, the most valuable use of leapfrogging is not just to catch up with developed economies, but also to take shortcuts to reach a more advanced development stage without accumulating inefficiencies along the way. Emerging economies can assess the results and question the underlying assumptions, of developed economies’ health systems, such as hospital-centric systems and reliance on highly trained physicians providing

routine care. They can decide what they want to replicate, and what they want to leap over. The World Economic Forum in collaboration with The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and with support of many private and public sector stakeholders launched an initiative to examine how the health systems of emerging economies can successfully leapfrog over pitfalls experienced in developed economies. In a newly published paper, we acknowledge the complexity of health systems and challenges to leapfrog an entire system quickly. We focus on identifying micro-level leapfrogging opportunities that can be collectively scaled-up and integrated with each other to trigger a system-level transformation. We have examined a number of successful innovations that have taken advantage of leapfrogging to strengthen the health systems of developing economies. For example, some healthcare providers in South Asia have managed to cut prices for services drastically without compromising quality. They now perform a large number of interventions, ranging from maternal care to open-heart surgery, at as much as 95 per cent below the prices charged at hospitals in the developed world. As another example, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health has responded to the country’s severe shortage of physicians and nurses by employing health extension workers. They function within rural communities – a team of two is responsible for between 500 and 1, 000 households – acting as advanced community health workers assisted by community volunteers. Our work is guided by the belief that leapfrogging can transform the health systems of African economies in ways that achieve better health outcomes while respecting the dignity of individuals and keeping costs under control for both individuals and the economy as a whole. The upcoming meeting of the World Economic Forum on Africa provides a timely opportunity for policy makers and other stakeholders to consider how to take advantage of this initiative while the window is still open for key decisions that will shape their economies’ health systems for decades to come. • Greenhill is managing director/chief business officer& member of the Managing Board of World Economic Forum, Lamiaux is senior partner/managing director and head of Europe Healthcare, Boston Consulting Group, and Woods is senior partner/managing director and global leader of Social Impact Practice, Boston Consulting Group.

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Opinion WEF 2014: Getting to grips with problems By Manji Cheto T is incredibly opportune that the World EcoIexpected nomic Forum (WEF) on Africa 2014, which is to explore the topic of “Forging Inclusive Growth, Creating Jobs”, has been brought to Nigeria this year. In so many ways, Nigeria symbolises the great African conundrum: always seeming on the brink of greatness but never quite getting there. To have the forum take place in the country promises to be invaluable experience, giving attendees a unique opportunity to explore this important topic in a tangible, practical manner, rather than to simply discuss it in abstract terms. Nigeria, like the rest of Africa, has undergone (and still is undergoing) an exciting renaissance. Yet, the remarkable economic growth of the last two decades stands in sharp contrast to the declining fortunes of over half of the population. A true paradox. From North Africa and the Sahel to East and Central Africa, all the way down to Southern Africa, a pressing issue for policymakers on the continent today is how to translate the economic growth of the last two decades into something real for their people. Of course, this issue is only one of many hurdles that the continent has to overcome. Each country has its own unique set of challenges that cannot and should not be simply reduced to a ‘one size fits all’ solution. In fact, I believe that since the concept of Africa as the last frontier of the global economy is now a widely accepted idea, a different kind of interest in the continent is beginning to emerge: a need for a better understanding of countries’ specificities. Many investors have now bought into the “Africa rising” narrative, drawn in part by headline-grabbing statistics, but if that commitment is to be long-term they will have to see fundamental changes both to regulations and underlying imbalances that drive political risks. Herein lies the challenge. Beneath the remarkable growth figures of the last two decades, the pace of development remains worryingly sluggish, and in some cases, this growth appears to be inversely proportional to the welfare of citizens. Yet, there are cases where notable development appears to be in spite of the government rather than because of it.

To what avail is an annual GDP growth of above five per cent for the continent if nearly half of its people continue to live in squalid conditions and abject poverty? For how long can the continent continue to claim confidently that its teeming young population represents a “demographic dividend” when the reality is that the vast majority of these youths sees nothing more than a bleak future ahead of them? With such glaring contradictions, it is little wonder that political risks still persist and that countries continue to be trapped in a perpetual state of “potential” rather than realising it. Daunting as the task of transformation may seem, the challenge is not insurmountable. One only has to look at the extraordinary changes of the last two decades to recognise that it is indeed possible to transform a place, which was once dubbed “the hopeless continent” by British publication The Economist into a hopeful place. WEF Africa is a useful platform for convening together the kinds of actors that have the ability to make transformational changes on the continent: governments, private sector, civil society and media. However, the only way to avoid making such gatherings just a talking shop with no real impact is to abandon the tendency to use the platform as yet another to reinforce the usual platitudes. While the contributions of all stakeholders are needed, I would argue that the most influential role is that of the private sector. Understandably, this view has been, still is, and will likely continue to be heavily criticised by many who feel that this is yet another capitalist-backed notion orchestrated for the renewed pillaging of the continent’s wealth, and leaving its people at the mercy of its architects. However, I beg to differ. It should be seen as a real tragedy that the vast majority of countries on the continent have for decades been reduced to charity cases, despite having the right components – abundant human resources, mineral wealth and fertile lands, to name a few – to engineer the structural transformation of their economies. Aid has a place in Africa’s development but this should be seen as limited and time-bound solution, not an open-ended incitement to keep the continent and its people locked into a cycle of dependency.

Yes, there have been and still are numerous cases of unabashed pillaging by private companies but however unfortunate these cases are, they do not diminish the important contributions that private sector players have had on the development of the continent. Whether it is longstanding companies like Unilever and PZ Cussons or others such as MTN, Dangote Group, Heirs Holdings who continue to grow their footprint across the continent, these companies are addressing critical needs. And it is not simply multinationals making a difference. Local and foreign small and medium sized enterprises are making important contributions too, from the group of Ghanaian entrepreneurs developing software to tackle the sale and use of counterfeit medicines or the handful of experienced British businessmen looking to make available clean energy to power local industries across Africa. However, just as important as it is to highlight the critical role of the private sector, there also needs to be recognition of its limitations. Private sector players – however well-intentioned they may be – are driven primarily by a need to maximise profits and consequently their contributions to the transformation of the economies in which they operate is often a by-product of their investments, rather than a deliberate aim or end. This is a reality that makes many uncomfortable but maximising profits needs not be mutually exclusive from fostering development. In this respect, the burden of responsibility for bringing together the seemingly divergent objectives of fostering development and profit-making needs to be placed where it belongs: on governments. A government is a regulator with a responsibility to its citizens and part of that responsibility is to foster a productive private sector, although not to the detriment of the state and the nation. However, it also goes without saying that policymakers on the continent have not always embraced this important role with a sense of duty and hence, civil society organisations and the media must continue to play the important role of helping to improve accountability and transparency. This task, too, comes with a great responsibility to ensure that facts are not distorted to support an assumption of foul play. Furthermore, another important change that needs to take place in the way discussions about

Africa’s development are debated is a rebalancing of the direction of conversation. By this I mean that too often, the tendency has been for external parties to lecture (harangue) African governments without really listening and understanding the enormous challenges of being a government in Africa. Cynical as many may be about the intentions of African governments, the truth is that the choices that these policymakers have to make on a daily basis are not easy ones and often they are pressured to make quick decisions that they are ill-equipped to take. Little wonder they get it wrong. To drive this point, a good friend of mine recently recounted an experience he had while visiting the office of a policymaker in one of the East African countries where significant volumes of hydrocarbons were recently discovered. In a rare moment of candour, the policymaker lamented about the public pressure he was under to make quick decisions on important infrastructure projects. Yet, his country had barely laid so much as a new rail sleeper since independence (and probably some years prior to that, even). How realistic is it to expect that his government could make such an important decision – and the right one – in such short timeframe? As the policymaker rightly noted: “We (government officials) find ourselves in meetings with impressive-looking lawyers on the other side of the table, wanting to negotiate LNG contracts. What do we know about how to produce an LNG contract?” If in fact public expectations were not such that African governments become unwilling to publicly accept their limitations, then perhaps there would be a much more constructive dialogue on how to support them – especially those whose countries are on the verge of a significant take-off – avoid the pitfalls of the past. Instead, the usual patterns of dialogue and the perpetuation of the hype means that African governments have perfected the art of pretence and can simply resort to re-echoing the usual headline-grabbing statistics as their primary line of defence against the glaring need to oversee more meaningful actions. • Cheto is vice president (West Africa) at Teneo Intelligence (TI), a risk advisory firm. Views expressed in the article are her personal views.

Celebrating Adewole, UI VC at 60 By Sunday Saanu ERHAPS the best way to summarize his 60 years thus far in life is to employ that particularly all-in-the-air American expression: awesome. Or, how does one describe a man who has achieved a kind of historical immortality on account of his being one of the brightest but luckiest few to manage the University of Ibadan (UI) as its 11th Vice Chancellor. Having worked with Prof. Isaac Folorunso Adewole only in the last four years when he became the UI VC on December 1, 2010, reports from diverse sources including Ilesa Grammar School, where he obtained Grade 1 with distinction in 1970, point to him as a person of uncommon favour, brilliance and benevolent spirit, whose positive attributes have endeared him to many admirers. But how does one validate the claims of his being a good man? A synthesis of his actions, pronouncements and body language will leave no one in doubt that Prof. Adewole could be likened to what Winston Churchill describes as a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma. Prof. Adewole is indeed the calm that defies storm. The first miracle he performed in the university, shortly after assumption of office as VC, is to formalise the appointments of about 200 hitherto ad-hoc staff, many of whom had been on contract job for years. This created positive reaction in the system. Nobody thought such a giant stride was possible in a closed system. Adewole simply removed the disparity and stopped the idea of ad-hoc appointment in UI. He also did the unthinkable, paying to all workers the “13th month-salary” which he described as “allowance”, among many other welfare packages for the workforce- the feats that have now turned his bitterest critics into ardent admirers. Prof. Adewole had faced excruciating opposition in his bid to win the coveted seat of the VC, but he has always emerged victorious, without being revengeful. To describe him as a man of peace is stating the obvious. He believes those who are at war with others are not at peace with themselves. Assessing him through his creative leadership style, one will come away with an impression that Prof. Adewole is a specialist not only in Gy-

naecology but also in clinically cutting the Gordian knot in university administration as he carries out his burdensome schedules with a calm and collected confidence. He has created right value paradigms for transformation, sustainability, effective and relevant partnerships, as well as processes and procedures that ensure and preserve best practices. He has also created exceptionally commendable precedents in office. Many of his devices to grow the university’s operational efficiency have been copied by other Nigerian universities. Prof. Adewole stands out at every inspection by challenging the people towards greater heights. When he visited UI Fish Farm and people complained that birds were poaching the fish in the night, he retorted, “Have you researched into why they come at night? Have your Ph.D students written papers on that? Have you visited fish farms in town to know if they have similar problems?” He simply dazzled the people with his prodigious élan! A thinker of finest hue, you may say. Responding extemporaneously to questions he had no prior knowledge about, Prof. Adewole is a beauty to behold in terms of communication skill and creative fecundity. With his urbane English and sophisticated diction, coupled with a mellifluent delivery, he always keeps his audience spellbound. Endowed with a humorous mien and gravely inclination, the UI VC is a charismatic personality, whose leadership style has always been defined by courage; a master of repartee. As a human, he has his foibles. He gets upset when people step out of line with impunity. However, his mind thunders forth its indignation, and once divested of the pollution, becomes like a sunny day with a clear sky. University is a place of dissent and controversy and that is the dialectics of arriving at the truth. For a man to lead close to 400 professors successfully without protest and acrimony, Prof. Adewole deserves a pat at the back for his sagacity and people management skill. An achiever extraordinaire, he is a man of conscience over commerce, mind over money and justice. Prof. Adewole will publicly chastise dubious culprits and condemn

the quest for money at all costs. He carries himself as a quintessential purveyor of values, morals and manners. Although a dreamer, this gynaecologist does his job with managerial panache. Yet, he conforms to the tenets of civilised conduct. He is intensely motivated, inventive and tenacious. As he marks his Diamond milestone today, Adewole is expected to unveil a foundation known as Isaac Folorunso Adewole Foundation (IFAF) which will largely fund research and advocacy work in the area of women’s health but with a sharp focus on Cervical Cancer. He appeals to his admirers to donate to the IFAF as a way to assist humanity. To Prof. Adewole, kindness in words creates confidence, kindness in thinking creates profoundness and kindness in giving creates love. A philanthropist, his philosophy is rooted in the words of Publilius Syrus who says, “you can accomplish by kindness, what you cannot by force.” Born on May 5th, 1954. Prof. Adewole attended Ilesa Grammar School from 1966-1972 and even at that tender age he was a role model to his schoolmates, on account of his good conduct, exemplary character and exceptional brilliance. He obtained Grade 1 with distinction in his West African School Certificate in 1970 and scored AAC grades at the Higher School Certificate Examination in 1972. He enrolled as a National Award Scholar at the University of Ibadan in 1973. He obtained his MB BS degree in 1978, winning the Glaxo Allenbury Prize for the best overall performance in Paediatrics. He underwent further medical training in Nigeria, becoming a Senior Registrar in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, in 1984. He then proceeded to the United Kingdom for a Research Fellowship in the Department of Medical Oncology at Charing Cross Hospital in London. He obtained the Fellowship of the National Postgraduate Medical College of Nigeria (FMCOG) in May 1986 and the Fellowship of the West African College of Surgeons (FWACS) in January 1994. Prof Adewole deserves a happy birthday. • Saanu is Media Relations Officer, University of Ibadan.

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Focus Women in show of strength, men beware Nigerian women have begun what looks like an irrepressible demolition of the glass ceiling that had hitherto held them down. They are developing innovative products and services, good business models, and are consciously erasing traditional stereotypes. For those still in doubt, the creativity show, organised by a non-governmental organisation in Lagos recently, appears to be an indirect way of putting men on notice, reports BISI ALABI WILLIAMS. ENERALLY, women have been known to G play conventional roles, all woven around taking good care of the family, and are expected, especially in the African setting, to be submissive. In the days of yore, and due to archaic societal norms, women had access to less formal education, were cajoled into early marriages and then given immense responsibilities that limited their access to opportunities. The result? Dismally low productivity. Today, things have improved significantly for the women. While gender inequality is being effectively tackled, women are still being marginalised in leadership positions. Majority of those who hold public offices are still the men, with women occupying only 20.4 per cent of the political positions worldwide. Experts have for many years, seen the glass ceiling as a disincentive that prevents women from rising to leadership positions or to the upper rungs of the corporate ladder, regardless of their qualifications or achievements. However, women have continued to contribute positively to economic development, bearing most of the responsibilities for household food security. They are also actively involved in the distribution of goods and services. Changes in the role and status of women began through various efforts in the 1970, aided by globalization and advancement in technology in the 1990s. Although, female participation and leadership remain poor, Nigeria is blessed with intelligent and hardworking women who have excelled in their various fields. Among the several female business icons that have contributed immensely to the nation’s development are: Folorunso Alakija, a business woman; Stella Okoli, the Chief Executive Officer of (CEO), Emzor Pharmaceutical Plc; Bola Adesola, Managing Director of Standard Chartered Bank; Shola David-Borha, Managing Director, Stanbic IBTC; Funke Opeke, CEO, Main One; Faith Tuedor-Mathews, Managing Director, Mainstreet Bank; Evelyn Oputu, CEO, Bank of Industry; and Juliet Ehimuan Google’s Country Manager among others. Gender experts have argued that woman’s strength and abilities cannot come light until she is equipped with the necessary tools. Regardless of how egalitarian the society appears to have become, women are still disadvantaged, due to cultural perceptions. As part of efforts to remove the glass ceiling, a non –governmental organisation (NGO, Women in Management, Business and Public Life (WIMBIZ) has evolved an initiative, aimed at stimulating the change process in women, by giving them encouragement and support, accompanied by the required training, to pursue their business and career goals without compromising their ethics or roles as mothers and wives. In communicating such winning strategies, WIMBIZ has over the years articulated the need for women to be dispassionate; not expecting any concessions in the course of work or business on the basis of gender; and not using femininity or maternal responsibilities as an excuse to welsh on a commitment. It has also bluntly communicated to its members through various channels, that to succeed as a woman (without compromising the well being of a family) would require hard work, probably much more than their male counterparts. It however teaches that nature has imbued women with the strength and emotional intelligence to effectively excel in both. It was in the spirit of enterprise that WIMBIZ recently held one of its biggest programmes, the Market Place in Lagos. The yearly creativity show is designed to bridge

Board Members of the Women in Management and Business (WIMBIZ): Executive Director, Benin Owena River Basin Development Authority, Ifeoma Idigwe (left); Director/Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Bank, Bola Odesola; CEO, Eventful, Yewande Zaccheaus; Minister of Communication Technology, Omobola Johnson and CEO, Sokoa Nigeria, Ibukun Awosika. the gap between producers and consumers, and enable exhibitors from a variety of businesses to display their products and create awareness about existing female owned products and services within the country. The Market Place also encompasses networking and investment opportunities for female owned Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Besides, it provides information on structures to integrate within their organizations, to enable them access funds for their businesses. Addressing the shoppers and exhibitors, the Chairperson of WIMBIZ, Osayi Alile said the event had become the darling of many female owned businesses and entrepreneurs, who cash in on the opportunity to showcase their skills, services, talents and products to the world. She said: “The show comes with new experiences. As a catalyst that elevates the status and influence of women and their contributions to nation building, we are throwing our doors open and inviting the general public to come and advertise and showcase their works at this creativity showcase event of the year. It is fun, exciting, educative, and highly informative and a great opportunity for friendship and networking.” She called on female entrepreneurs and exhibitors at the show to continue to fine tune and develop their skills, even in the face of growing challenges. The Executive Vice-Chairman of Techno Oil Ltd, Nkechi Obi said: “Looking at all the products on display, I am truly fascinated and amazed at the exciting and amazing works, clothes, shoes, jewelries and accessories as well as all the services available on display and available to Nigerians. What I have seen here is truly amazing. Nigerian women are truly amazing and doing very exciting things.” She noted that WIMBIZ also comes round as women’s creativity group; “a very potent container for the growth of a woman’s soul.” She continued: “As an organization, it has over the years, provided a safe arena to explore women’s deepest issues, be it economic health, cultural, emotional and so on. Every woman has a purpose in life and a woman’s creative circle can nourish her with the kind of compassionate attention that allows her to discover, develop and express the unique capacities that she was born with. To provide her with an accurate mirror that can help her celebrate herself as the gifted, talented woman that she truly is. It can help you to stand up for yourself, to stop saying you’re sorry; to teach you the joy

of growing your business and taking up your space. You will begin to experience yourself as dynamic, confident and effective in your life and more creative than you ever dreamed possible.” Similarly, The Executive Director of WIMBIZ, Mosun Layode charged the women to, without compromising the well being of their families, build strong businesses that would stand the test of time and outlive them. She said: “We encourage you to get involved in the market place, which is a veritable platform to grow your businesses. The opportunities in the market place are limitless, as it is a rallying point for business minded individuals, families and organizations, even to ordinary Nigerians. The show is borne out of a need to bridge the gap between existing producers, manufacturers and consumers. “What we have seen here today is the showcase of the best of Nigeria’s talents, displaying and promoting their products and services, related to the arts, education, health, finance, music, culture, fashion and loads more; attracting several hundreds of female owned businesses as exhibitors of the most inspiring, influential and empowered business and professional women in Nigeria. And this is very encouraging. She also noted that the market place “has been an avenue to bring women together in an informal setting to network and become aware of how they can commence business to business - relationships.” She called on female entrepreneurs running businesses in Health, Fashion, Education, Interior Designers, Manufacturing, Finance, Technology, to continue to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the fair to grow their businesses. Sharing her experience with The Guardian, one of the exhibitors, Bose Olanihun, who owns Button, a fashion label, said participating in the annual marketplace has changed her business in more ways than she could have ever imagined. She said: “Over the years, it has created and maintained a safe group space in which women in business can explore their relationships and network within and outside the immediate business environments. “Even now, I look forward to many years of working, nurturing and networking, even sharing with other business minded people like me, as I creatively improve on what I do. The platform that WIMBIZ provides allows so many hard working women like me to develop to their full potential while interact-

ing with others. Every year, the market place stimulates my creativity over and over again and the support and enthusiastic encouragement of the leadership has allowed me to develop the confidence to develop myself as an entrepreneur.” Another exhibitor said the organizers introduced a lot of innovation, style and funfair to the marketplace. She said: “The exhibitors advertised their businesses online. Many of the participants used the opportunity to offer prospective customers and creativity enthusiasts mouth-watering discounts. Of course, many of the shoppers, even first time visitors this year’s market place cashed in on this opportunity to get the products and services at cheaper rates.” She said one of the major highlights of the show was the dancing competition and the take a lucky dip, which entertained the shoppers, their family members and relatives. She continued: “The lucky winners won beautiful prices and went home with all kinds of souvenirs from the shop owners, who had freely added colour to the show by assisting the organization with their products. “Beyond the competitions, the presence of many children in this year’s show was another unique feature. Unlike previous years, the children of most of the participants took up the challenge of marketing their mother’s or aunty’s businesses or services, as they were busy attending to customers, sharing handbills or practically engaging the shoppers in all kinds of business networking. “Though, some were shy and inexperienced in their new roles as marketers as they struggled to display their marketing gimmicks, others were no doubt a beautiful sight to behold as they confidently engaged the adults and children shoppers to the admiration of their parents, aunties or guardians. “This helped in winning the hearts and attention of many of the window shoppers who only breezed in to see what the show offered. However, the actions of the children prevailed as many of the shoppers ended up buying one item or the other as a result of the persuasion from these enthusiastic young marketers.” One of the young, enthusiastic lads, Tokunbo Ola Williams, told The Guardian: “I was very happy to be at the market place. I decided to help mummy because she has worked very hard. I wanted to support her by wooing the shoppers. Mum was very happy and I am happy too. Sharing loving and caring is a huge gift.”

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Monday, May 5, 2014

TheMetroSection Horror: How father killed daughter over a plate of rice in Port Harcourt By Odita Sunday HE story of seven-year-old Favour Ekerete, T who was beaten to death by his father for eating a meal kept for him, would comfortably pass as a perfect example of man’s inhumanity to man. Favour’s father, one 29-year-old Kingsley Ekerete, a commercial bus driver hails from Nto Osung community in Ikot Ekpene Local Council of Akwa Ibom State. Kingsley, who was arrested by detectives of the Rivers State Police Command holds a First School Leaving Certificate. He is a commercial bus driver in the city of Port Harcourt. On April 12, 2014, Kingsley returned home like every other day at 7.00pm. Already hungry, he went towards the pot of rice he had prepared before leaving for work only to find that his hungry daughter, Favour, had eaten the meal he had reserved for himself. He, therefore, unleashed his anger on his child, beating her to coma. The child, who was said to be ill before the beating, thereafter became sick as a result of the excessive beating. According to Kingsley’s confession to the police, the girl died a few hours after the beating. He was said to have kept the body at a corner of his one-room apartment in Obeama, Oyigbo Local Council of Rivers State, an apartment that also housed his two other children. The remains of Favour was said to have spent a whole night with their father. Having made sure his neighbours were asleep, his wrapped the body in his own clothing, armed himself with a shovel and conducted an interment for little Favour in a shallow grave behind his room. The tale took a different twist when one Ugwu, the caretaker of the building where Kingsley lives, noticed the unexplained disappearance of Favour who was the darling of neighbours. She (Ugwu) quizzed him and he told a ‘cover up story’ of how the child had taken ill and he had taken her to a hospital in Umuebulu com-

The suspec, Ekerete munity where she had died. Ugwu insisted on seeing the body but Kingsley blatantly refused but she threatened to report to the Police. She even informed a neighbour, one Pastor Emeka Onuoha of Jesus Reigneth Ministry of the incident. While the accusations ensued, the Pastor flagged down men attached to the Afam Police Division who were on patrol that day. Kingsley was arrested immediately, and after interrogation, he was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, (SCID), Rivers state. Kingsley gave different testimonies to the Po-

The shallow where Favour was buried lice at both divisions claiming that the mother of his children abandoned him to take care of their ailing child alone and that the child had died for lack of attention as he toiled everyday for money for their upkeep. The truth was, however, unfolded when his parents Mr. and Mrs. Ekerete visited the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). They told the story of his strange behaviour even towards the mother of his children who ran away from home to avoid being killed. Kingsley later took the Police to the site of the burial where the body of the deceased was buried.

The Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, Mr. Tunde Ogunsakin, who narrated how the drama was unravelled, explained that his men, on receiving the case file from Afam police station, noticed that Kingsley’s explanation on the missing daughter was suspicious and that efforts to reach the mother was rebuffed when police started investigation. Ogunshakin noted that it is a case of murder considering the nature of the crime. “ Kingsley needs to go through a psychiatric test before he is prepared for a court of law,” he declared.

The Sofolas set up foundation to promote robotics By Tope Templer Olaiya T’S a changing world; from chanting ‘Who is in the garden’ to ‘Bojuboju, o loro bo’ to playing Ludo game, snake and ladder and recently computer games and play stations, today’s kids are now learning to have fun and outsmart each other with robots. This much was put to test recently during a twoweek Alofos Easter Break Science Fiesta held in Surulere, Lagos, where close to 20 secondary school pupils got busy at the summer academy with robotics, solar energy, computer electronics, earth and space science, chemistry, physics and mathematics. The programme, which is in its third year, is organized by Alofos Science and Technology Foundation, an organization established in 2011 to stimulate students’ interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), as well as giving young minds the opportunity to demonstrate independent creative skills and the ability to work as a team. The foundation is modeled after science centres, which are scattered around the developed countries and initiated by Prof. Olusoga Sofola, former Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics) of the University of Lagos, and his wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Sofola. Robotics, a branch of technology that deals with the design, construction, operation, and application of robots is a combination of hard science, mathematics, computer programming, and mechanical engineering, among others. Students, many of whom are from public schools, participated in the programme, which organizers say was aimed at teaching kids how to think creatively and apply theoretical knowledge to practical life situations. At the quiz sessions, the students

Students playing with robots competed against each other in groups to demonstrate the skills they had acquired during the programme. Explaining the reasons for Alofos Foundation, Prof. Sofola said it was to replicate science centres like it is done in other parts of the world. “There are over a thousand science centres in America. Every city boasts of one. In Nigeria we don’t have a place where kids can go anytime and play with science and technology tools.” “What we have been able to do with Alofos is to introduce kids to love science and mathematics with fun tools and computers so they can learn on their own. All over the world, robotics is the main thing. Robots are been used now even in the search of the missing plane. The students are beginning to appreciate that robots is the present and the future.” “What we are doing is to catch them young by in-

troducing them to computer programming. They are also given task to complete using the robots such as picking up of dirt on the way and dumping them somewhere or identifying an object with a particular colour among many other tasks. With time, we will get to the level where we will start applying robots to our everyday life,” he noted. One of the students at the science fiesta was Adeniyi Talabi, who won the 2013 National Robotics competition. Adeniyi and his team member, Moshood Abiola, represented Nigeria at the World Robot Olympiad (WRO), which held in Jakarta, Indonesia. In a chat with The Guardian, Adeniyi said he felt proud to have won the national competition back to back since 2012 under the tutelage of Alofos Foundation. “No one has achieved this feat and I look forward to representing the country again this year at the WRO. Robotics has taught me a lot of things like nurturing my creative mind and expanding my reasoning skills.” Vice Chairman and member of the foundation’s board of trustees, Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Sofola, said a lot more can be done for the kids to make them enjoy science, but resources are limited. “In our little way, we have tried to make science subjects, which many see as difficult, fun to learn with new media and multi-visual tools.” “Already, we have adopted the New Era Girls Senior Secondary School in Surulere to mentor and encourage the participation of girls in science and technology. The school has been supplied with a practical science kit, equipment and consumables to support them in the study of STEM. We want to have more girls enroll into science, technology and engineering courses in higher institutions,” she said.

Brief Olusola Olutogun, 57, for burial May 10 HE death has occurred of T Mr. Olusola Olutogun at the age of 57 and will be buried on May 10 in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Olutogun, a Zonal Manager of The Ogun State Agricultural Development Project, passed on at his Unity Estate, Ijebu Ode residence on Friday, April 25, 2014. He is survived by wife Mrs. Racheal Olutogun (nee Othihiwa), Topefolu, Olumayokun, Ibukun and Eniola (children). Olutogun attended The Mayflower School Ikenne, University of Ibadan where he bagged Bachelors Degree in Agronomy and Masters Degree in Crop Science.

Olutogun

Monday, May 5, 2014 19

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Lagos govt, WDI take malaria eradication campaign to Alimoso • Medical mission records 250 beneficiaries By Wole Oyebade PPARENTLY in recognition A that malaria eradication is a collective effort, the Westfield Development Initiative, in partnership with the Lagos State government among others, have begun grassroots campaign against malaria sickness and deaths in Lagos. Their first port of call was Alimoso Local Council adjudged the most populated local council in the state. Goal of the campaign is to cultivate a culture of healthy and hygienic environment, prevent malaria fever through improved awareness among the residents, and ensure malaria sicknesses are treated promptly. These ambitious goals came to the fore last Monday at the premiere medical mission that held at the council premises in Akowonjo. No fewer than 250 participants were enlightened on malaria epidemic and how to fight it in homes. Participants were taught the importance of keeping the environment clean, sleeping under LLINs and going to hospital for test and treatment whenever they are sick. Executive Director WDI, Omobola Lana, who led the team, said the medical mission was part of commemorative events of the World Malaria Day 2014, “by screening Alimoso residents for malaria, diabetes and hypertension, while also providing free drugs and Long Lasting Insecticide treated Nets (LLLINs).” She added that malaria re-

mains a very big issue for one of their patrons, which informed the target of their corporate social responsible. “He almost, always has malaria. For him, if we can do anything to end malaria or prevent people from having malaria, then that would be good,” Lana said. In Nigeria, malaria is reportedly still responsible for 60 per cent of outpatient visits to health facilities, 30 per cent childhood deaths, 25 per cent of deaths of children underone year and 11 per cent of maternal deaths. Lana added that their vision is to open a Malaria Treatment Centre in communities of Lagos, beginning with one of such centres to be commissioned at Diamond Estate, along Isheri-LASU/Ojo road in next couple of months. On measuring success rate of the programme, Lana said: “Most PHCs in the state now have data on malaria. As we go on, we can compare data from when we started and latest data on incidences, so as to measure the progress quickly. Or we can do more scientific studies. It is really important for us to measure impact that we make.” WDI, a brainchild of the Gboyega and Dr Mojisola Fatimilehin family, is an NGO with a mission to improve wellness and access to opportunity for disadvantaged Nigerians. The Lagos State Ministry of Health provided the medical missions team and a volunteer team from Locke International, with support from

A cross-section of participants at the event Pfizer and Fidson Healthcare Plc. Managing Director, Locke International, Chris Abraham added that healthy environment was important in the fight against malaria, and a major consideration in the housing industry today.

Abraham said: “As we build houses, we must ensure that the environment is kept clean, and a condition were mosquito larvae cannot grow. That will improve the health of the people and healthcare generally. That is the partnership between building firm

and health-related agencies.” Representative of Alimoso LGA Chairman, Wemimo Ayodele added that the medical intervention was important to cushion government’s efforts at delivering healthcare to the people and also ease humantraffic in hospitals.

Ayodele observed that malaria had the highest number of outpatients’ visits at the Flagship Primary Health Centre in the LGA, adding that such initiatives would go a long way in eradicating malaria in the region.

Residents seek govt attention over dangerous drainage on Oshodi-Apapa Highway By Wynner Ejere S the rains begin to pour, residents of Ijeshatedo in Surulere area of Lagos have expressed worry over the poor state of inner-city roads, particularly an exposed drainage at Ijesha bus stop along Oshodi-Apapa expressway. The area, which is floodprone and located opposite the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Church at Olodi-Apapa, is not only an eyesore to road users, but poses huge risk to pedestrians at night and after a heavy downpour. The uncompleted drainage work, which collects water from the expressway, is filled to the brim whenever it rains. According to residents, a manhole was dug over 10 months ago before the drainage project was abandoned by the contractor han-

dling the road rehabilitation. Narrating his ordeal to The Guardian, Mr. Precious Chika, said all efforts for the road maintenance agency to complete the drainage and cover up the ditch, has been futile, despite several promises made to finish the road project. “When some holes were dug up in the area, residents expressed some misgiving and apprehension over the danger of doing the project in piecemeal. They promised to make the environment conducive before leaving site but to our dismay, nothing was done before they moved to other areas to work.” “At present, the area poses danger to school pupils and passersby not familiar with the area. It is even worse after a heavy rainfall, as it would be

The area, which is opposite the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Church on OlodiApapa, is not only an eyesore to road users, but also poses huge risk to pedestrians at night and after a heavy downpour difficult to locate the bad spot, even for regular users of the road,” he noted. Other residents who spoke to The Guardian, appealed to the government to come to their rescue before a major catastrophe is recorded at the spot.

PHOTO: WYNNER EJERE

The drainage at Ijesha Bus Sop

Anambra community accuse police , Rector of complicity in Oko crises, demand justice From Chuks Collins, Awka FURTHER twist has been added to the crises that have enveloped the sleepy erosion-ravaged Anambra community of Oko in Orumba North Local Council with a call to President Goodluck Jonathan to intervene in their worsening strained relationship with the management of the Federal Polytechnic (FEDPOLY), Oko. The community in a press briefing in Awka listed out a six-point prayers to President Jonathan which includes a demand for public apology from the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar and his Anambra command boss, Usman Gwary, “for publicly denigrading their monarch, HRH Igwe Prof Laz Ekwueme.” They also want the Police high command to “face their constitutionally assigned duty and responsibility and effect immediate arrest and prosecution of those involved in the arson and destruction of properties in Oko, and attempted murder of HRH Prof Laz Ekwueme and his wife, Prof Lucy Ekwueme. The community at the press conference addressed by the President General of Oko Peoples Union, Mr Cyprian Nwanmuo accused the Anambra-born billionaire businessman, Mr Emeka Offor of tacitly fuelling the crises through subtle means, since he personally called the monarch on the phone on April 13, 2014, “abusing him for the effrontery to criticize the council he (Offor) constituted for the

Polytechnic”. They urged him to consider using his touted vast wealth and contacts to set up a new tertiary institution in his hometown of Oraifite in Ekwusigo Local Council of the state, “and be the Emperor there.” While urging the Federal Government to set up a high powered Judicial Commission headed by a distinguished High Court Judge and people of established integrity to look into the lingering Oko/Fedpoly, Oko crises with a view to unraveling the causes, they also want the position of Rector to be advertised and a transparent method used to hire a replacement for Onu since his tenure expired on March 14, 2014. The community appealed to President Jonathan to remove the Rector of the FEDPOLY, Oko, Prof Godwin Onu, for incompetence and non-qualification to be so appointed in the first instance. That he is a professor of Political Science, a course that was not part of the curriculum of a polytechnic. More so, they accused him of woeful performance in his first tenure hence he deserves no second term. They claimed that Onu’s human relations was so poor that he was at war with all the staff unions in the institution and has unrivalled penchant for crises and trouble shooting. Taking the audience made up mainly of journalists down memory lane of events leading to the crises, the Oko leadership accused Prof Onu of arming those they referred to as renegades and mur-

derous mercenaries made up mainly of some named 17 youths of Oko with new vehicles, huge funds that made them see themselves as untouchables. These boys have then been a menace to the society especially Oko. Everything came to a head on April 19,2014 when they ignored a general announcement by the community banning any masquerade from the 2014 Ifu Olu festival. The ban according to Nwanmuo was to forestall the 2012 experience where students of the polytechnic and masquerades had a bitter physical clash. But the young men, whose wing in the scheme of things has been outlawed by the community, buoyed by large funds at their disposal invaded the palace of Ekwueme and the historical archives of the community at the palace, vandalizing, looting and destroying everything in sight. It did not stop there as they unleashed terror on all road users driving along the Ekwulobia-Oko-Umunze-Ibinta federal highway and any other thing in their wake. However, the Rector through his public relations unit said he was not involved in any of the allegations at all. So far the Oko monarch along with some journalists have raised the alarm that their lives have been under intense threat by these strange boys who now mill around nooks and crannies of the state with arms. They are more worried when the police have chosen not to do anything but sit by and watch the armed gangs unleash mayhem on whomever and whatever they want undisturbed.

20 Monday, May 5, 2014

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

BUSINESS INTERVIEW / 61

PROPERTYGUIDE /31

Govt approves new housing scheme for workers

There is no better place to invest than in Nigeria, says Adetu

MONDAY, May 5, 2014

Challenges of SMEs’ operations, by Okonjo-Iweala, Alade By Femi Adekoya HE Coordinating Minister T for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala and the Acting

Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Dr. Sarah Alade, have highlighted the challenges hindering the growth of the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the

country, stressing the need for pro-active measures in tackling the poor access of small businesses to requisite funds. Okonjo-Iweala explained that the reasons why SMEs are

yet to receive the major boost they deserve, is due to the fact that SMEs do not have access to credit information, adequate collateral and are characterized with poor manage-

ment, corporate governance and accounting practice by operators. The Minister, during a public-private dialogue on credit bureau and access to finance jointly organised by the Credit Bureau Association of Nigeria (CBAN) and Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), stressed that SMEs are also under-capitalised and lack strong business models that can support long term survival. The coordinating minister, who was represented by the Director-General, Debt Management Office, Abraham Nwankwo stated that these challenges are world wide phenomena and not peculiar to Nigeria but said this situation shows that SMEs have to do more to engender growth and development for the sector. She however added that the reluctance of banks to extend credit facilities to SMEs based

on the identified challenges is responsible for the steady decline in financing of SMEs in the country over the years. Citing the data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), she said the share of commercial banks’ credit to SMEs has continued to decline adding that, credit to SMEs declined from about 7.5 percent in 2005 to less than one per cent in 2006 which later declined to 0.14 percent in 2012. “In historical context, one could appreciate this worsening position from the turbulent experience the banking industry had over the past one decade,” she said. The minister pointed out that the advent of credit bureaux in Nigeria has become an integral part of the financial system maintaining that the need to establish credit bureaux in Nigeria emerged in the late 1980s and early 90s when the Nigerian

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

Deputy President of the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB), Kayode Okunoren (left); President of the council, Ayodapo Shoderu; and Managing Director of Old Mutual Life Assurance, Keith Alford, at the Brokers’ Evening hosted by the company, in Lagos

Treasury Bills

Transactions on NSE drop by N14.4 billion

Maturity Date 31-Jul-14 9-Oct-14 23-Apr-15

By Helen Oji turnover of 1.099 billion shares worth N13.393 billion was exchanged in 19,078 deals by investors on the floor of the Exchange last week, in contrast to a total of 2.059 billion shares valued at N27.839 billion that changed hands in 20,413 deals during the preceding week. The drop in volume, last week, may, however , be attributed to the public holiday declared by the Federal Government declared on Thursday, 1st May, 2014 to commemorate the ‘Workers’ Day Celebrations. Specifically, the financial services industry (measured by volume) led the activity chart with 680.117 million shares valued at N6.727 billion traded in 11,201 deals; thus contributing 61.87per cent and 50.23per cent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. Similarly, the ICT industry followed with a turnover of 169.045 million shares worth N84.692 million in 62 deals. The services industry occupied the third place with 99.369 million shares worth N109.674 million in 584 deals. Trading in the top three equities namelyMass

ICT, financial stocks top activity chart Telecommunication Innovations Nigeria Plc, FBN Holdings Plc and Zenith International Bank Plc (measured by volume) accounted for 403.832 million shares worth N4.153 billion in 4,462 deals, contributing 36.74 per cent and 31.01per cent to the total equity turnover volume and value respectively. Also traded during the week were a total of 23,433 units of Exchange Traded Products (ETPs) valued at N495,614.00 executed in 15 deals compared with a total of 12,184 units of valued at N425,438.88 million transacted last week in 16 deals. Similarly, 1,900 units of FGN bonds valued at N2.328million were traded this week in 5 deals compared with 1000 units of FGN bonds valued at N1.201 million transacted last week in I deal. The NSE All-Share Index and Market Capitalization depreciated by 0.72per cent to close

chart, 23 equities appreciated in prices during the week on Friday at 38,578.78 and lower than 32 equities of the N12.700 trillion respectively. preceding week. 47 equities All indices depreciated dur- depreciated in prices higher ing the week with the excep- than 38 equities of the precedtion of the NSE ASeM that ing week, while 129 equities closed flat. remained unchanged, equal On the FGN price movement Bonds to 129 of the preceding week.

Bid 10.50 10.80 11.30

Offer 10.25 10.55 11.05

NIBOR Tenor O/N 1M 3M 6M

Rate (%) 10.5000 12.7847 13.5792 14.3787

Description

TTM

Bid Price

Yield

Offer Price

Yield

13.05 15.10 16.00 16.39 14.20 10.00

2.29 2.99 5.16 7.74 9.87 16.23

100.15 105.00 110.85 115.90 106.30 77.50

12.95 13.02 13.03 13.05 13.04 13.43

100.30 105.15 111.15 116.20 106.60 77.80

12.87 12.96 12.96 12.99 12.99 13.38

16-AUG-2016 27-APR-2017 29-JUN-2019 27-JAN-2022 14-MAR-2024 23-JUL-2030

Exchange rates as at May 2, 2014

Exchange rates as at May 2, 2014 Currency

Buying(NGN)

Central(NGN)

Selling(NGN)

US DOLLAR

154.73

155.23

155.73

POUNDS STERLING

261.014

261.8575

262.7009

EURO SWISS FRANC YEN CFA WAUA

214.5022 175.9895 1.5096 0.3084 239.5119

215.1953 176.5582 1.5144 0.3184 240.2858

215.8885 177.1269 1.5193 0.3284 241.0598

YUAN/RENMINBI

24.7179

24.7983

24.8786

RIYAL

41.2558

41.3891

41.5225

DANISH KRONA

28.733

28.8258

28.9187

SDR

240.0636

240.8393

241.6151

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22 Monday, May 5, 2014

FINANCIALGUARDIAN

Mobile payment platform processes $500m transactions in five years By Adeyemi Adepetun ITH about 1.3 million W users in the last five years, mobile payment platform, Paga claimed to have processed 7.4 million transactions worth N80 billion ($500 million) in value. Besides, Paga, within the short space, it has 4,470 agents in 29 states, 1,300+ businesses using Paga.

The firm claimed that the platform Paga, which was founded in April 2009, was developed on the premise that simple and easily accessible payment solutions could be implemented to negate the frustration of dealing with cash and other inadequate payment channels According to the Founder and Chief Executive Officer,

It acquire over a million users in the country, Paga now has over 1.3 million users, 4,470 agents in 29 states, 1,300+ businesses using Paga, 7.4 million transactions processed worth N80 billion ($500 million) in value Tayo Oviosu, the mission was to create a service that would transform lives by delivering innovative and

universal access to financial services for all Nigerians. Oviosu explained that with Paga, a user can pay for any

‘Challenges of SMEs’ operations’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 financial system witnessed a high level of non-performing credit portfolios in banks which significantly contributed to the financial distress in the system. She added that with the establishment credit bureaux in the country, SMEs now have the required information to get access to credit facilities noting that this information will also enable the lenders to appraise the request for credit and take a decision based on the credit

history of the particular SME. “Now that the important milestone of establishing a system of credit bureaux has been achieved, the onus is on the SME to participate in the scheme so as to support their access to finance for growth”. Also speaking at the event, the Acting Governor, CBN, Dr. Sarah Alade said the SME sector in Nigeria has the critical role of driving the country’s industrial transformation and development as it has done in other developed countries. “It is on this basis, that the CBN initiated the SMIEIS in Nigeria with the voluntary

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in December 2010 which later grew to 18,640,000 in June 2012. “I want to commend the bureau operators for this feat because the number as at March 2014, stood at 32, 375, 156. I am using this opportunity to charge them not to rest on their oars as we still have more grounds to cover if we must have a robust credit reporting system,” she said.

Access Bank plans $1b capital upgrade By Nelson Chijioke CCESS Bank Plc has unveiled plans to shore up its capital base to the tune of $1 billion, as the shareholders, at the 25 yearly general meeting, in Lagos, approved the proposal. The fund raising, which will be need-based, would also be in tranches and used in the bank’s priority growth sectors and market segments that guarantee steady earnings in conformity with its sustainable growth agenda. This would also be in furtherance of its objective of being ranked as one of the top three banks in any of the

-29.86

support and efforts of the bankers’ committee at inception, the scheme required all banks in Nigeria to set aside 10 percent of their profit before tax annually for equity investments in small and medium industries,” she said. According to her, credit bureaux has continued to record steady increase in the number of records registered borrowers from a mere 78,189

ings, a strategic agent network and sheer determination; Paga has successfully become the market leader within the mobile payments industry in Nigeria. The first to acquire over a million users in the country, Paga now has over 1.3 million users, 4,470 agents in 29 states, 1,300+ businesses using Paga, 7.4 million transactions processed worth N80 billion ($500 million) in value”, he stated. On the company’s latest milestone achievement, Oviosu said, “at Paga, we have always believed that Nigeria possessed huge economic p otential that could only be harnessed with efficient payment systems for businesses and individuals . That is exactly what our team have and will continue to offer Nigeria...an efficient way to pay and get paid anywhere in the country.

goods, service or send money to anyone with a mobile phone number or any bank account instantly, adding that businesses can also use Paga for any of these services and also collect payments online from MasterCard, Visa, or Verve debit cards. “Customers can also receive Western Union remittances from anywhere in the world through their Paga accounts”, he stated. The company, which carried out its first transaction in February 2011, according to the CEO after receiving it’s full CBN license, went on to outperform M-Pesa, the African leader in mobile payments by achieving 847 per cent growth in their first full year operations; and processing over 918,000 transactions worth over N9.8 billion. “In what is relatively a short space of time, through innovative product offer-

markets in which it operates. Access Bank’s Chairman, Gbenga Oyebode, said: “The Board has considered a variety of available capital raising options and came to the conclusion that having the option of raising additional financing of up to USD 1 billion or its equivalent in local currency via the issuance of debt instruments is the most cost-efficient option to meet the Bank’s capital adequacy objectives. “The injection of fresh capital into the bank’s operations would accelerate the attainment of its aspiration of becoming the World’s Most Respected African Bank and help consolidate its position as a leading African financial institution. Enhancement of the bank’s capital base is a key imperative for the realization of its developmental goals and commitment to society.” The shareholders also unanimously approved the re-election and election of new directors, among who are Paul Usoro and Mrs.

The injection of fresh capital into the bank’s operations would accelerate the attainment of its aspiration of becoming the World’s Most Respected African Bank and help consolidate its position as a leading African financial institution. Enhancement of the bank’s capital base is a key imperative for the realization of its developmental goals and commitment to society Ajoritsedere Awosika, even as they commended the bank’s management and board for the performance recorded in the period under review. The Chairman, Shareholders Trustee Association of Nigeria, Alhaji Mukhtar Mukhtar, said: “Amidst the changes experienced in the operating environment, the ability of the Bank to grow deposits at a double-digit rate is impressive and highly commendable, noting that such signals stability and security of a financial institution”. Corroborating him, Dr. Farouk Umar, President, Solidarity Shareholders

Association of Nigeria, noted, “that shareholders are happy with the Bank and will continue to support its aspirations.” He added that the payment of a final dividend of 35kobo; totaling N8bn to shareholders in 2013 is “a demonstration of responsibility and fulfillment of the promise of creating value for shareholders”. The President, Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria Shareholders, Boniface Okezie, said that Access Bank has an impressive history of delighting shareholders, and urged the bank’s new Group Managing Director, Herber Wigwe, to continue to sustain the tradition.

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MONDAY, May 5, 2014 23

FINANCIALGUARDIAN

‘Power failure, network congestions account for 90% of downtime on ATMs’ By Adeyemi Adepetun INETY per cent of every N downtime recorded on the about 15, 000 Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in Nigeria have been linked to incessant power failure and unresolved network congestions. Indeed, larger percentage of customers who use the ATM service to withdraw, transfer and lately deposit money are sometimes made to go through some harrowing experiences. One of the most common challenges the ATM has thrown up is its failure atimes to dispense cash after which the account of the customer had already been debited. The customer would now need to start another battle

with the financial institution; the situation may even worsen if the ATM card used does not belong to the customer’s bank. Such a customer may have to spend the next one month seeking reversal of the hitherto transactions. Speaking to The Guardian, Group Head, Heritage Bank, Tobe Nnadozie explained that most times, the banks are not to blame for ATM downtimes; stressing that some many factors contribute to such. Nnadozie said failure of some core banking applications account most times for three per cent ATM downtime, stressing that power accounts for 60 per cent; network congestion accounts for 30 per cent, but that on rare time fire

CBN issued a directive on ensuring the installation of anti-skimming devices on all ATM terminals in the country with a view to preventing the ability of fraudsters to copy personal data from the magnetic strip on cards and we committed to ensuring that this is achieved before the expiration of the deadline. accounts for one per cent of downtime on the machines. According to him, banks are working seriously with the network operators to mitigate these challenges, so to ensure the success of the ongoing Central bank of Nigeria’s cash-lite initiative. On the alleged risk posed by the continuous use of ATMs with Microsoft Window XP, which the owner had ended its support for it use, the Heritage Bank chief noted that the

banks are working to douse tension around it. According to him, the Committee of e-Banking Industry Heads (CeBIH) is already in talks with the software giant to see possible soft landing on the issue. At an earlier meeting with journalists, the Chairman of CeBIH and Group Head, eChannels, Skye Bank Plc, Chuks Iku said CeBIH as a body, has engaged Microsoft Nigeria to fashion out means of creating a uniform approach to compli-

ance with the need for migration of ATM operating system from Windows XP to Windows Embedded 8.1- the new operating system designed to run on ATMs. “CBN issued a directive on ensuring the installation of anti-skimming devices on all ATM terminals in the country with a view to preventing the ability of fraudsters to copy personal data from the magnetic strip on cards and we committed to ensuring that this is achieved before the expiration of the deadline.” He pointed out that the body is committed to the quality of service provided by the members, which depend largely on the quality of their exposure to current global trends and trainings available in the e-pay-

ment industry. Interestingly, an Ernst and Young (EY) report found out that customers in Nigeria are the heaviest users of ATM in the world. EY in its 2014 Global Consumer Banking report, where it surveyed over 32,000 bank customers in 43 countries, including Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa, discovered that bank customers in the country are among those top countries that use social media when making decisions on selecting a financial service provider. The report noted that some policies are gradually increasing the trust and confidence of bank customers, which had hitherto lost confidence in the sector.

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EQUITY MARKET SUMMARY

MARKET REPORT AS AT 2=05=2014

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MARKET INDICATORS

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Raji takes over from Jimoh as Odu’a boss DU’A Investment O Company Limited has announced the appointment of Adewale Raji as the conglomerate’s new Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer,with effect from June 2. His appointment was sequel to the voluntary retirement Dr. Adebayo Jimoh, who has been at the helms of affairs of the company in the last nine years.

Raji, who emerged through a thorough a competitive and transparent selection process carried out by KPMG Advisory Services,hails from Ogun State. He graduated from the University of Jos in 1985 with a first degree in History and was in the pioneer MBA class of Lagos State University that graduated in 1997, with specialisation in Marketing. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Logistic Management

(FILM) and has attended a number of executive management courses within and outside the country. Raji, who has over 28 years working experience, served had worked with PZ Cussons Nigeria Group, where he rose to become the Managing Director-Distribution Services, overseeing the conglomerate’s Strategic Business Unit (SBU), responsible for Outbound Logistics and Customer Services.

AU tasks members on AGOA extension HE Commission of the Committee (HATC). lateral trade agreements by HATC had urged member the RECs and individual T African Union (AU) has urged member countries to countries and regional eco- countries did not compropush for the extension of Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) for the next 15 years to enable them maximise benefits through trade relations with the world. The AU Commissioner for Trade and Industry, Mrs Fatima Haram, gave the task last week at the extra ordinary conference of AU Ministers of Trade in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Haram called for effort to strengthen and maintain momentum toward the establishment of Continental Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) as soon as possible due to the uncertainties in the various bilateral and multilateral trade negotiations with the developed economies. ``It has become even more critical for Africa to create and maintain momentum towards the establishment of CFTA that is ambitious as possible in as short a time as possible,’’ she said. She stressed the need to prioritise the continent’s economic integration agenda over other bilateral and multilateral agreements because ``it is this agenda that is key to Africa’s economic transformation and development’’. The commissioner said the conference was convened in response to the directive from the AU Summit of January as recommended by the High Level Africa Trade

nomic communities to ensure that the negotiations of bilateral and multi-

mise Africa’s integration or undermine the scope of the Abuja treaty.

He started his career with the then PZ Industries Ltd.as a Management Trainee in January 1987 with various responsibilities in administration, factory services and procurement. He was elevated to the position of Central Purchasing Department Manager in 1998. In 2003, he had a brief stint with Reckitt Benckiser Nigeria Limited as Planning Procurement & Logistics Manager, but was recalled back by PZ within the same year based on his track record of performance. On his return to PZ, Raji rose from Depot Services Controller in November 2003 to become the Director of Distribution Services, in June 2005 and was appointed into the Executive Board of PZ Cussons Nigeria Plc Group in 2006.

Raji

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NIQS tasks govts, professionals on high construction cost, urges action

Lagos unfolds Orange Island, Greenfield Phoenix schemes

Confab backs ministry to supervise environmental issues in PIB Page 48 bill

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MONDAY, May 5, 2014

Govt approves new housing scheme for workers, tackles home ownership fraud Housing From Nkechi Onyedika and Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja

A new deal is in the offing for workers and prospective home owners as the government has mooted a fresh initiative, which will provide affordable housing in collaboration with the Organised Private Sector; the authorities also plan to deploy biometric system in the allocation of homes to reduce fraud, especially in the Federal Capital territory. S housing shortage in A Abuja is pushing property prices and private rents out of reach for workers, with the crisis set to get even worse, the Federal Government said it has approved three new housing schemes for Nigerian workers as part of the measures to appreciate their hard work and reduce their plight in the Federal capital Territory (FCT). To this effect, the presidency has directed the FCT

Abuja... a city that needs fresh review of development plan Administration to make available land in three districts for the proposed workers housing scheme. Already, FCT has allocated about 600 hectares of prime land for workers’

housing needs. The FCT Minister, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, who made this disclosure last week during the 2014 Workers Day Celebration at the Eagle

square, Abuja stated that the provision of this affordable housing for workers would be in collaboration with the Organised Private sector for quick result. In another development,

the Federal Government has concluded plans to deploy biometric system in the allocation of homes to subscribers under the National Housing Fund (NHF) as part of measures

to reduce fraud in the housing sector. Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mrs. Akon Eyakenyi, who disclosed this while inspect-

CONTINUED ON PAGE 39

Architects urge govt to set up Abuja development review committee Professional Practice By Chinedum Uwaegbulam IGERIAN architects are urging government to set up fresh Abuja development review committee that will involve all stakeholders to analyse development flaws, proffer appropriate solutions for implementation. The architects, who met at 7th edition of the Architects Colloquium on the theme “Architecture and National Development Agenda VII: “Sustainable Built Environment IV” organised by the Architects Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON) in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), in Abuja, as a

While demanding for a review of the Abuja development plan, the architects are also urging government at all levels should create policies that will preserve the cultural heritage of any city that will undergo urban renewal. They say, rehabilitation and remodelling of old cities should be adopted in place of demolition in order to achieve urban renewal. means to contribute positively to the Nigerian vision in line with the present administration’s transformation agenda. Participants were drawn from Ministries (Federal and State), Extra Ministerial Departments, Agencies and the Armed Forces, Universities, Polytechnics, National Universities

Commission (NUC), Colleges of Education, National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), allied professionals and their regulatory bodies, architects in practice (public and private), Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria (APBN), professionals from the international community, students of architecture,

architects in diaspora and members of the public. In a communique signed by the Director Colloquium, Mr. Jimoh Faworaja, the participants noted that Abuja master plan should be subjected to periodic reviews every 5 – 10 years, to effectively accommodate evolving needs. They agreed that for Abuja to remain the national “Dream City”, it must accommodate our positive diversities, serve the need of the people and provide opportunities for all Nigerians to have a sense of belonging, hence; efforts must be made to ensure compliance with the basic principles of planned growth for cleanliness, orderliness and sustainability. For the Nigerian built envi-

ronment to achieve an acceptable level of sustainability, they wants the Nigerian government and all other relevant professional bodies to form a core foundation group with the ultimate aim of promoting building integrated photovoltaic systems and renewable energy technology. The participants observed that the concept and process of sustainable green building incorporates and integrates variety of strategies during design, construction and operation of building projects and the use of building materials and products represent an important strategy for sustainable development. According to them, the use of the Photovoltaic systems and

renewable energy if harmonized properly, will lead to increase in power generation and save cost in generating same, and make up for the large short fall while curtailing over-dependence on fossil fuel and non-renewable sources of energy, that will eventually be the major source of energy in the entire nation. Government at all levels should create policies that will preserve the cultural heritage of any city that will undergo urban renewal. Rehabilitation and remodelling of old cities should be adopted in place of demolition in order to achieve urban renewal.

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PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

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NIQS tasks govts, professionals on high construction cost, urges action Professional Practice By Tunde Alao and Emmanuel Badejo ONSTRUCTION cost manC agers have expressed concern over high cost of construction in the country, saying the trend is inimical to the growth of the building industry and the nation’s economy. But the group, under the aegis of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (NIQS) hope for change, if government at all levels engages professionals in the running and execution of all building and construction projects. While seeking for an enabling environment to be

Various studies and experiences have shown that cost of executing any project within the construction industry in Nigeria much more than other African countries and cost managers have expressed concern calling for urgent action to review the trend provided by the government, the institute is also seeking for collaboration by other professional bodies, research agencies and governments at all levels to intensify the development of alternative building materials. Specifically, NIQS maintained that Nigeria records one of the highest cost of implementing construction projects, and decried a situation where government and its agencies prefer foreign professionals to their local counterparts.

Speaking during the institute’s visit to the Rutam House, Corporate Headquarters of The Guardian, Isolo, last week, NIQS President, Mallam Murtala Aliyu, a former Minister of Power, noted that, one major problem facing the nation is the mindset of those in authority, who often prefer foreign professionals and imported materials. The Guardian’s team including the Editor, Mr. Martins Oloja, the General Editor, Mr. Jewel Dafinone, and other

management personnel received Aliyu, who was accompanied by his executive members. Tracing the issue of infrastructure failure to both administrative and policy summersault, Aliyu, who said he is nursing the ambition of being the next governor of Gombe State, was of the view that professionals and experts in various areas of human endeavours should not leave politics to political jobbers, but rather create time from their professional

AREDOLS plans N350m secretariat complex Projects GROUP under the ausA pices of Association of Real Estate Developers of Lagos State (AREDOLS) has unfolded plans to commence the construction of a multi-purpose secretariat building in the metropolis. The association also announced the setting up of monitoring/task force to monitor construction projects being undertaken by

members in support of government’s efforts at putting an end to the incessant collapse of building in the Lagos area. In preparation for these two projects, the association, according to its Chairman, Prince Nureni Akinsanya, has concluded arrangement to hold a fund raising ceremony in order to make the plans a reality. He said the N360million secretariat fund raising cer-

emony, which will be chaired by Senator Ganiyu Solomon, Speaker of Lagos House of Assembly, Adeyemi Ikuforiji; Commissioner for Works, Obafemi Hamzat, Chairman, MITV, Chief Muritala Gbadeyanka, Dr Jimi Agbaje and Mamman Ibrahim Tsafe, would be held at Degree Events Centre at Oregun, Ikeja on May 18 this month. Dignitaries expected at the

event include Chairman, Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Chairman of Ibeto Group, Chief Cletus Madubugwu Ibeto; and President, Forte Oil, Mr. Femi Otedola and others. Governor Babatunde Fashola will be the chief host. AREDOLS boasts of multibillion naira investment base in Lagos environs, majorly in Lagos Central Business District and

activities and embrace politics. This he said, would provide policy direction that is capable of providing the socio-economic quests that are long been evading Nigeria. According to him: “It is high time that those who are intellectually endowed, with professional competence must take a brief holiday and join politics. By this, we may be able to provide direction on how to bail out our country from socio-political and economic morass”, said Aliyu. He noted that infrastructure failure is rampant in Nigeria simply because contract award, instead of being base on competence, has become a subject of patronage. “Contract award should not be on patronage but rather on competence. Unfortunately, what is happening in Nigeria today is to the contrary, which one can say is contributing to infrastructure failure”. On the issue of Nigeria being a country with highest construction cost, NIQS President hinted that his organization would soon put in place a recommendation that would help in addressing the issue. Aliyu also believed that implementation of the sundry laws and regulations in the country are necessary to ensure that incidence of build-

ing collapse, infrastructure failure, among others are addressed. “Concerning the issue of Building Code seeking for passing in the National Assembly, we want to reiterate that our problem in Nigeria has never been lack of good laws and policies, but rather that of implementation. Even if the bill is passed today, implementation would still be the problem”. He assured that surveyors would do everything possible to influence the stakeholders in the building sector not to fold their hands, or resigned into fate, adding that the task is not difficult to achieve, but that what is lacking is the enabling environment. Responding to the recently rebasing of the Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) that officials said put Nigeria as the biggest economy in Africa, above South Africa; Aliyu said there is nothing to celebrate on that. “It is a good thing if we have such opportunities by which foreign and local investors can bring their money and invest in the country. But issues one cannot ignore are the state of our infrastructure, power supply and security. If all these are adequately addressed, it will make the rebasing meaningful with concrete results for everyone to see,” he added.

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PRIME ESTATES

PROPERTY GUIDE

Lagos unfolds Orange Island, Greenfield Phoenix schemes Projects By Tunde Alao PPARENTLY to maximize its potentials as a city surA rounded by water, Lagos agency in charge of waterfronts has entered into partnership with two private developers to develop two luxury estates along the Lekki-Epe corridor. The estates known as Orange Island and Greenfield Phoenix is being promoted by the State’s Ministry for Water Front Infrastructure Development (LSMWFID) and developed by Messrs Orange Island Development Company and Gravitas Investment Limited respectively. Specifically, Orange Island is aimed at developing an Island that will be a fully serviced community. The scheme is located in the Lagos Lagoon, about 450 metres off Lekki Phase1. It is a mixed use development, comprising of residential, commercial and other utilities, with an estimation population of 12, 000 residents. The project involves the dredging of sand from the bed of the lagoon, with reclamation of about 150 hectares of land. Besides, the project also involves construction of bridge and other infrastructure that would be needed in the island. The Greenfield Phoenix is

Illustration of the proposed Hannah Garden, Badagry, Lagos also coming as a mixed-use development, set on approximately 100 hectares,

designed to have low-density residential area. It is an island development, located on the

lagoon waterfront, taking its main access from Chevron Drive, along Lekki-Epe

E x p r e s s w a y . Facilities to be provided include parks, lakes and a

promenade on the lagoon front that will have cafes, restaurants, bistro, arts centre, boutique, hotel as well as a business park. Speaking on the proposed schemes, at the 2014 Ministerial Press last week, the Commissioner for Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Mr. Adesegun Oniru, said that the focal and anchor point of the development is a proposed retail and marina to be located on the northern end of the central spine. The Commissioner also declared that to make these projects and others meaningful, the ministry embarked on the construction of access road within Maiyegun Waterfront Scheme in Eti-Osa. He said the project involves construction of 580-metre road, with 7.5 width carriageway, including streetlights. The objective, according t him, is to link the newly created waterfront scheme with surrounding residential areas. According to Oniru, the land use plan is based on the proposed urban design development concept. “The larger land-use is for low density residential, with additional higher-density residential options along the main route. A mixed land-use component was introduced as suggested in the Lekki Master Plan, in order to accommodate variety, urbanity and vitality in the village core area”, he said.

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PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

PROPERTY GUIDE

Housing pros canvass safety in construction industry Professional Practice By Tunde Alao and Emmanuel Badejo O minimize cases of injuries and sometimes casualties within the construction industry, stakeholders including developers, contractors, engineers, artisans, building material suppliers and other service providers must give priority to the issue of safety. This was the high point of discussion at the just concluded 14th Lagos Housing Fair, held at De Blue Roof Pavilion, Agidingbi, Lagos State. This year’s event, which focused on safety in construction industry, had about 50 exhibitors in

Issue of safety in housing delivery should be paramount among all the stakeholders including developers, contractors, engineers, artisans, building material suppliers and other service providers attendance. While the event was declared opened on Monday by Senator Gbenga Ashafa, Dangote Group had the second day. The day-3 of the weeklong event featured “Professional Services Day”, where experts in the building sector spoke on how to ensure safety both in the process and completion of housing delivery. Moderated by the President, Nigerian Institute of Quantity

Surveyors (NIQS), Mallam Murtala Aliyu, the session provided vital information on how safety could be provided in the course of building a house or engaging in any construction project. These include ensuring quality building materials, competent workforce, danger-free environment, both for workers and neighbours, among others. The session also provided

hints on how safety can be achieved when a building is eventually completed and people started living in it. In his opening remarks, Aliyu stated that the issue of safety in housing delivery was sacrosanct and therefore, all the stakeholders including developers, contractors, engineers, artisans, building material suppliers and other service providers must be on the guard for safety while on construction site. For homeowners, Aliyu said there was need for them to be conscious of safety from site accidents, fire accident, domestic accidents, attacks from marauders and even

Osun commissions road projects, warns against abuse Roads From Tunji Omofoye,Osogbo S part of its pursuit to ensure provision of infrastructure within the state, the Osun State Government last week commissioned a total number of 21 roads, warning residents and users to desist from abusing the projects with wrong use. Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola made this statement while commissioning the 26.31 kilometres of road constructed in Osogbo, the state capital noted that the government valued at about N10billion. At the event, Aregbesola said that the roads were part of his

promises he made to the electorates if voted into office, saying he still intends to do more. The governor stressed that, because of the paramount importance of road transportation for the movement of people and goods in Nigeria, including Osun, government accorded it a priority attention in its development scheme. Aregbesola pointed out that his administration did not allow it to be detained by the little details of short-term inconveniences but focused on the big picture and the long-term value of the sacrifices it’s making today. According to the governor, “When we started these roads, our traducers scoffed and

mocked the project, claiming that we would never have the funds or the presence of mind to see them through. But to the glory of God and their eternal shame, we have delivered on our promise. “We are not resting on our oars; our greater vision is to tar every road in the state since we cannot conceive of a beautiful environment without good roads. “We will therefore continue to convert our visionary road map for Osun into concrete and enduring legacy of asphaltic surfaces for the engendering of socio-economic development, progress and prosperity for our people”, the governor stated. He said that as the state capi-

tal, Osogbo township road development project stands out as a product of a visionary road map intentionally aimed at making Osogbo the truly modern state capital it deserves. The governor stressed that the roads are designed to ease transportation within the city, as well as in and out of it, adding that the total number of roads to be commissioned in Osogbo are 21 roads with a stretch of 26.31 kilometres. The commissioned roads include: Station Road to Ebenezer Hotel Road; Boorepo to Elelede Junction Road; Elelede to Gbemu Road; Gbodofon to Gbemu Junction Road; and Ilobu Road to GRA Road.

building collapse, which is also a very vital for of accident.” Speaking on the topic: “Property Maintenance and Safety: The Experiences of Real Estate Developer”, Managing Director, Wemabod Estates Limited, Mr. Olumide Ologun, while defining what maintenance is, highlighted its imperatives. According to Ologun, safety of a building was contingent upon how well it’s being maintained. “We should realize that maintenance starts from a simple repair of an item. You have your shoe you polish it on daily basis to expand its lifespan. So also in building. You maintain your house either by painting it every two years, or five; you change or repair its roof, plumbing materials end even the structure when you notice cracking. All these are to increase its value either for rent later on or to attracts market value in the event of outright sale”, he said adding that failure to maintain a building would not only reduce its value, but may pose danger to the inhabitants. He also warned against what he described as “safety in a hurry”. This is on the backdrop of some developers who engage in refurbishing an old building without taking into cognizance, the structural status of such building. This is common in Lagos where developers usually convert old bungalows into a high-rise building, without installing the correspondent reinforcements, cement and other building components

that can ensure that such building can stand the test of time. Representative of Dangote Group, Mr. Johnson Olaniyi, spoke on some of the factors militating against quality job in the housing sector. According him, block moulders are the first set of stakeholders that their activities must be monitored. Although, while not categorically placing the entire blame on the block makers, he was of the opinion that in view of the place of cement in construction industry and blocks being a major component, those in the business of block making must stand up to the task by ensuring that they get the mix right. “It is regrettable that in the event of building collapse, stakeholders would be excusing themselves. While the architect would say his drawing is compromised, engineers also would find an excuse, ditto with others such as bricklayers, iron benders and the rest”. On how the high cost of cement is causing people to compromise the mix standard, Olaniyi, while excusing Dangote Group of any arbitrary increase said cement dealers and traders needed to be more patriotic in their business dealings. While blaming some unscrupulous traders for engaging in re-bagging of cement, hinted that because of their inordinate desire to make more profit, they reduced 50 kilogrammes of cement to 45 kg or 48 in some instances.

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PROPERTY GUIDE

PROJECTS

Ebonyi completes N16b projects in Ucho-Udo Mega City scheme The Commissioner further explained that in each of the block, two ministries could comfortable be accommodated to grant optimal service delivery to the people of the state and even beyond. All the blocks are fitted with lifts. Nwogha also said that apart from the secretariat buildings other structures for the Central Bank, State Security Service (SSS) and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) have been completed while work is ongoing on the power plant. “Apart from the above developments, in the residential areas actions are at top gear for the allocation of land for those that applied for its development. I maintain that Ucho-Udo city is a reality and before the tenure of this present administration of governor Martin Elechi, the place must be a modern city that will give the state capital a face lift, “he said.

Projects From Nnamdi Akpa, Abakaliki ONTRARY to insinuations C that the multi billion naira Ucho Udo mega city embarked upon by Martin Elechi administration will not be completed before 2015, the state government declared last week that a N16 billion worth of projects have already been completed. Ebony state Commissioner for Land Survey and Housing, Friday Nwogha, an architect in a chat with journalists in Abakaliki, the state capital said the secretariat complex and other structures at the city have been completed and waiting for commiss i o n i n g . Nwogha who explained that Ucho-Udo new mega city is aimed at given Abakaliki capital a face lift, said the city has been divided into 23 zones namely residential area, low and high density, GRA, commercial, secretariat, banking areas and others. He added that some zones have been developed. The secretariat

One of the projects in Ucho-Udo mega city zone is where the government is constructing new secretariat buildings for the

civil service and others. According to the Commissioner, the state government is putting up about

London real estate investment conference Housing OREIGN and Local investors will in July this year conFverge in London to deliberate on the effective implementation of the real estate investment and mortgage financing in Nigeria. The two-day Conference to be declared open by Vice President Namadi Sambo, was initiated by Global Homes Magazine (UK) and Housing Circuit Magazine (Nigeria). President Goodluck Jonathan had on January 15, 2014 launched the Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company (NMRC) with a take-off grant of N50 billion to bridge the funding cost of residential mortgages in the country. The Publisher of Housing Circuit Magazine, Mr. Seun Jegede disclosed that the primary objective of the two-day Conference was to create awareness and investment opportunities for Real Estate and Mortgage Finance Companies and Organisations in Nigeria and in the UK and also empower investors gain expert insight into new market trends in the real estate sector and share practical experience regarding global trends in real estate and mortgage financing. Jegede added that the conference will also provide platform for various stakeholders to network and build new business partnerships as well as attract local and foreign direct investment (FDI) into the housing sector. He said “The Conference will also provide a niche networking platform for participants who have been carefully selected based on their strategic and leadership positions in their respective areas of business. “Organisations will have the unique opportunity of engaging with key players in strategic areas of the economy on a one ton one “fact finding” discussion and explore various investment opportunities that

may be mutually beneficial. “We are liaising with the UK Trade and Investment (UKTI), the Business Council for Africa (BCA), Central Association of Nigerians in the UK (CANUK), NIDO, The Nigeria High Commission, UK

and other relevant stakeholders in the UK to use their platforms to invite to the Conference a selection of carefully selected UK investors in various spheres of the economy who are keen about investing in Nigeria.

11 gigantic blocks in zone 17, which is called secretariat zone to accommodate all manners of civil service as well as create an enabling environment for smooth civil service operations. He however stated that the buildings are costing the state government over N16billion, adding that the road network of the entire Ucho Udo city, the street lights, the drainage, the recreational facilities have been completed.

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PRIME ESTATES

PROPERTY GUIDE

Govt moves to halt fraud in home ownership CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31 ing the ministry’s prototype housing scheme located in Suleja, Niger State, said that the new strategy would help to significantly reduce the nation’s housing deficit, which stands at about 18 million units. She noted that the estate, which is being built under the Public Private Partnership of the ministry, contains 102 units of housing, consisting of one (32 units) bedrooms, two (44 units) and three bedrooms (33 units). Under the pilot scheme, the beneficiaries must be contributors to the NHF.

The units have a price tag of between N1.8 million to N5.8 million, depending on the house type. For instance, two bedrooms and one bedroom cost N4.7 million and N1.8 million respectively. On the allegations that those who already owned houses, especially money bags would get the houses, the minister said the ministry under her watch would endeavour that only those who fits in, in the various categories of housing would be entitled to them. She said: “What I want to guarantee you and Nigerians is that under this dispensation, an individual

will be entitled to only one house. We are going to put in place the biometric system, which will be introduced to ensure that an individual will be able to claim only one house”. Also speaking during the inspection, the Managing Director, Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FCMB), Mr. Gimba Ya’u Kumo, said that the houses were intentionally discounted in line with the social housing scheme of government. Ya’u Kumo, who said that the bank is expending N600 million on the new housing project, said there are also 25 housing projects being

Architects seek Abuja review committee CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31 For these recommendations to be actualized, there is an ardent need to address the short fall of the employment of architects at the Federal level, at the State level as well as all the 774 Local Governments Areas in Nigeria, for sustainable urban

renewal. Government should install and improve on basic infrastructure in slum areas to create linkages to the Cities, and develop affordable measures for upgrading housing and unsustainable environmental conditions. Urban Renewal process can best be guaranteed, through collaboration

by all the professionals in the built environment. They noted that education, both formal and informal, is indispensable in changing peoples’ values, attitudes and behaviour with respect to sustainability. It was therefore recognised that educational curricula at the tertiary level be reviewed, to reflect the current trend in training and

Caleb varsity, UNHabitat launch State of World Cities report Urban Development HE United Nations T Human Settlements Programme (UN-HABITAT) will formally launch its new State of World Cities Report (SWCR) on Wednesday at Caleb University, Imota in Lagos. The report is a fresh, holistic and integrated approach to city prosperity, which will be aimed at promoting the collective wellbeing of the people. The report examines strategies by which cities can generate and equitably distribute the benefits and opportunities associated with prosperity, ensuring economic well-being, social cohesion, environmental sustainability and a better quality of life in general. This scientific study is an indepth comparative study report carried out in over 50 cities across 40 nations. The cities were carefully selected from both developed and underdeveloped nations, using both scientific and economic parameters. The launch of SWCR, which is co-sponsored by Lafarge Cement Company; is to formally establish a Memorandum of Understanding between Kenya-based UN-HABITAT and Caleb University, Lagos in the area of Cities Research. The launch will inaugurate an international conference on cities from 12 to 14 May 2015 at the university. The event of global significance will be chaired by the renowned urban planner and consultant, Prof. Emeritus Akin Mabogunje. The Chief Host is the ViceChancellor, Prof. Ayodeji Olukoju, while the event is facilitated by UN-Habitat’s

Director, Chief Scientific Adviser, Prof. Banji Oyeyinka, and Prof. Samuel Adedeji

Daramola of the Department of Architecture, Caleb University.

undertaken by the bank across the country. Meanwhile, Senator Mohammed paid tribute to President Jonathan for commissioning more workers’ housing estates in the life of this nation. According to him, “two affordable housing districts have already been allocated to deserving estate developers and staff cooperatives among others”. The Minister recalled that recently, the FCT Administration allocated 200 plots of land to eligible staff as part of ‘long service award’ to reward faithful officers of the FCTA who have served meritoriously. “Pursuant to this, a plan is underway to institutionalize the Award as a policy in the federal Capital territory administration,” he added. Responding, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Abdulwaheed Omar expressed the workers appreciation to President Jonathan and the FCT Minister for allocating 600 hectares of land in a choice location exclusively for their housing needs. Comrade Omar commended President and congratulated the FCT Minister for driving peoples oriented programme with positive impact on the lives of the workers. He appealed to the president to find time out of his busy schedule to perform

the ground breaking of one of the social housing

schemes for the workers in Abuja.

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FOCUS ON REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS IN NIGERIA PART 1

Stakeholders Advocate Blue Print For Prompt Delivery of Housing Projects T is a common thing these days to see commercial messages of estates being put for sale looking extravagantly beautiful. Most times, it comes with glossy off plan architectural designs or pictures that paints a picture of a completed project. But what is the opinion of the promoters, critics as well as observers of this trend in respect of this race to attract prospective clients with enticing pictures of courts or terraces in the news media? To Dr Oyeke Ajiboye, the Managing Director of Efficacy Homes , off plan sales promotion enables subscribers of a given project to buy at existing price which compared to when the project has advanced to completion level may become very expensive for some cadre of subscribers. He is also of the view that smart investors usually take advantage of such an opportunity to invest and later dispose it when they discover that the price of such property appreciates in value . However, some observers of this trend in the building industry feel otherwise. To this group of educated but not well knowledgeable in properties or building sector, the placement of non physical presence of what is being sold portends seeds of deceit and dangers of fraud as mere acquisition of land without a corresponding real structure on ground should not be a basis for offer commercials as it may take more time to actually get the project to maturity compared to the picture that was painted initially. To Chief Omochiere Aisagbonhi, the Chief Executive Officer of Omais Investment Group ,the trend of of exposing properties to prospective clients from off plan stage is not limited or new to Nigeria alone. According to him, before any developer a parcel of land for development , he must have carried out a proper survey and be in the position to know both the duration and cost analysis of the project. What this implies is that he must have a vision of what is required. Hence, the apparent need to put it across to the public for patronage. The Managing Director however distanced his organization from the madness of claiming to have what is not available .For instance, directly facing his office is a mansion built by the company. This is just one out of legion that has been sold out even before the project commenced

because of the confidence that the public has for Omais Homes. The requirement for workers to buy into their terraces is just to have a comfortable job and also a desire to live in a posh house.”Just walk up to us and let us take the burden of the omoniles and other challenges that go with building in Lagos from you if only you are within the middle class or even operating above that but your major inhibition is time but not money and you can be sure that in less than the time you expected, your home will be ready for your habitation.”Aisagbonhi affirmed when confronted with a question of what his plans are for prospective subscribers. He appealed to both the financial institutions and government to create favourable environment for genuine developers like them by

profiles, aluminum coils and discs, Tower is truly a household name in Nigeria. The Tower Group has a footprint across West Africa with group companies and associates in countries like Senegal, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Mali, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Benin Republic. The philosophy of the group has been to invest in backward integration so as to save precious foreign exchange and provide employment opportunities to the local people. With the aim of providing affordable and TOWER ROOFING – THE LARGEST METAL ROOFING COM- quality aluminum roofing sheets to the Nigerian market. Tower set up its first roofing unit PANY IN WEST AFRICA HE Tower Group set up operations in Nigeria at Ikeja in 1982. Also in he eighties, the group way back in 1959 and is among the oldest and set up an aluminum rolling mill and a colour most reputed industrial groups in Nigeria. coating line, which was capable of producing Through its wide range of aluminum products CONTINUED ON PAGE 44 like kitchenware, roofing products, extruded partnering with them on crucial segment of their projects like removing impediments on land acquisition and creating financial support or facility for such jobs. On time frame for projects to be delivered to subscribers, Mary John feel that the developers should endeavour to speed up their game by ensuring that projects advertised are delivered on promise as delay most times do cost them great and painful injury.

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FOCUS ON REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS IN NIGERIA PART 1 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 42 world class coloured, stucco and plain coils for roofing in a variety of thicknesses and the widest range of colours. Having laid a strong foundation for its roofing business, Tower roofing division embarked upon a strategy whereby it would be possible for a customer in any part of the country to have easy and convenient access to Tower roofing products. In line with this, a number of roll forming units were set up all across the country and today Tower Roofing companies are present in 19 locations and growing around the length and breadth of Nigeria. Today, Tower Roofing is available in Aluminum, Zinc-Al and PPGI material, in the thickness range of 0.20 0 1.2 mm and in a variety of colour options. Clearly offering the largest range of roofing products to the customer. Tower Roofing is known for decades for its reliability through Right Quality and Right Thickness business approach. Tower Roofing has continued to invest in new roofing profiles/designs and boasts of introducing a variety of new roofing profiles in the market like Long span Tiles, Metcoppo, Clad, Krimp et cetera. Tower Roofing has also introduced innovative roofing sheets like Tower Cool, which is a polyurethane insulated roofing sheet which provides excellent noise reduction and reduces temperature and heat. Such product introductions are in keeping with Tower’s consciousness for being environment friendly. In keeping with its market leadership position, Tower Roofing has introduced the latest offering which is Stone finish roofing tiles available in different designs and colours. The company also specializes in large commercial and industrial installations and offers range of special products like transparent polycarbonate roofing sheets and Roof top Rotary Exhaust Systems for institution applications. Tower roofing has proudly provided roofing solutions to major infrastructural projects like airports, seaports, large warehouses, factories, commercial buildings and oil structure in Nigeria. Tower has roofed many iconic buildings in Nigeria including the National Assembly, Abuja, and the new Murtala Muhammed Domestic Terminal (MM2) at Lagos. Manufacturers in Nigeria are facing many challenges like cheap quality imports, high cost of power generation, congestions at ports to name a few. The Group has been at the forefront in taking up these issues to ensure that Nigerian manufacturers get adequately represented and the myriad of problems faced by them get highlighted at the highest possible levels. If these issues are properly tack-

led by policy makers, Nigerian manufacturers too could compete internationally with the best in the world. Tower Group is committed to provide affordable and environment friendly roofing solutions to its customers in Nigeria. EFFICACY HOMES OUT WITH TASTEFULLY FINISHED HOUSES FFICACY Homes has launched several tastefully finished semi detached houses in a self sustaining community in Lagos. Some of the estates are located in along Eputu bus-stop Lekki .The land that is free from any encumbrances has perimeter fencing, interlocked road an integrated security system with CCTV, recreational facilities, shopping centre, fire station as well as clinic. The company is being piloted by Dr. Oyeleke Ajiboye who is a seasoned professional engineer with several years of rele-

vant experiences, practical and formal trainings in Real Estate, Project Management, Investment Risk Assessment, Business Advisory and also as a trained negotiator from the Prestigious Harvard University. As an inspirational leader with track records of producing, presenting and managing the implementation of innovative business solutions, he has successfully managed efficacy Homes Limited, efficacy Engineering and Integrated agricultural farm (Leron Concept Ltd) with over 100 hectares across Nigeria, as the founder/CEO. He also has an NGO that helps students with special needs and situations in secondary schools and higher institutions. His NGO recently started an empowerment scheme for widows by training them in business and helping those with verified business with financial support He is also an alumnus of Exec-

utive Education at Harvard University, MIT and TUFTs, where he took course on Negotiation, Business Leadership, Mediation, Strategy and Implementation. He has a doctorate degree in Housing and Estate Development. He is a member of the Association for Project Management (APM), international facilities management association (IFMA) and Institute of Engineering (IET) UK. His experience and deep knowledge of packaging oneoff residential investment properties for his companies in Nigeria and abroad (Efficacy Homes UK Ltd and Efficacy Homes LLC, US), through multi million dollar property investment portfolios with calculated, mitigated and successful exit strategy coupled with industry leading aftercare services ahs enabled him to establish and maintain healthy business relationships with partners. On awards, the young busi-

ness man has attracted several laurels to his organization and personality. For instance, the company earned the attention of The across Nigeria Outstanding Leaders Gold Award for her excellent performance and contribution to the development of real estate industry in Nigeria, 2009.Others comprises The Nigerian Real Estate Practitioners Gold Award (2010), Business Owner of the year award 2010 finalist by the Future awards. The 2013 Global leader of integrity merit award for honesty, good governance, transparency and accountability in leadership towards the development of Nigeria, Africa and the entire world including nomination for the 2013 Choice Property Excellence Awards and nominated as one of the 10 most powerful Nigerians in Business under 40 (Ynaija). PEAK PARK ESTATE LEKKI With their numerous awards and words like positive, excel-

lent, efficient used to describe Efficacy Homes Limited, and also their approach to developing and building homes with their resources in house, both to design, build and deliver residential led projects, Efficacy Homes Limited, has gained a reputation for a proactive approach in providing decent and habitable homes for its clients. Building Features 3 seating room with 4 bedroom ensuite, POP ceiling, POP Internal Wall Screeding, Armoured wooden internal doors, Gerard roofing sheet, bullet resistance external doors. Benefits of off plan sales are many. First, the opportunity of better price, securing property at today’s price: there are great financial incentives for this type of investment, including the advantage of securing a price on the property at today’s market value rather

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FOCUS ON REAL ESTATE DEVELOPERS IN NIGERIA PART 1 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 42 than a future, unknown value. When construction commences, and the developer has met their construction finannce requirements, prices usually rise. Therefore, for investors who commit early to the project there is often a good price incentive. Secondly there is an option of choice as there is always the advantage of having the opportunity to make choice about how your investment property is developed or what part of the development you will purchase and also redesign possibilities. Equally, maximum tax advantages as tax benefits are greater when property is newer because there are more tax depreciations available. Those benefits are greatest when the property is brand new so buying off the plan maximizes your available tax deductions. In addition, it creates window to and ability to Save: Long settlement is equally a potential window for capital growth. The focus of today’s development according to the Managing Director is centred majorly on their environment as the government’s vision on building a new MEGA city in Lagos with new infrastructural developments like the new Lekki International Airport, the Lekki-Epe road concession, the coastal road, fourth mainland bridge, Lekki-Ikoyi bridge, new Lekki stadium, the sea port, the Free Trade Zone, Entertainment city, the Gold course and many other infrastructural and industrial development in the state has attracted a lot of investors to the state.

Their estate is situated off the Lekki-Epe expressway and shares a good neighborhood with other well developed estates with middle to upper income resident (i.e. Mayfair Gardens, Sapphire Estate, Crown Estate), Good Shopping malls, banks, major markets, within a 5km radius. Peak Park will be a world class residential community with best-in-class design, construction, amenities, site services and security with contemporary 1,200 sqm, lawn tennis and basket ball court to be called ‘The Peak House’.The Managing Director of Efficacy Homes Limited -Dr. Oyeke Ajiboye holds a B.Sc, M.Sc, MBA, PON (Harvard) LENTO ALUMINIUM ENTOaluminum is a prime manufacturer of long span Aluminum and Steptiles Aluminum roofing sheets with head office and factory in Abuja, Lagos State and ultra modern factory in Awka, Anambra State and branches in all major cities in the country. Lento Easy Roofing Tiles Limited is a subsidiary of Lento Nigeria Plc that deals on stonechip coated steel roof tiles. It is a world famous, unbelievably light weight roofing system that can enhance to look of your roof with its elegant design and great colour range. Lento Easy roof tiles is designed and manufactured to withstand all kinds of severe weather such as extremely hot and cold weather, strong wind and heavy rain. Lento Nigeria Plc is one of the leading engineering and construction companies in Nige-

Dr. Devendu Bajpai, Group Exective Director, Tower Aluminium Plc ria, providing a complete range of Civil, building, engineering services, construction, estate development and contractual services. Lento Nigeria Plc is the parent company of Lento Group of Companies as a result of the birth of subsidiary companies. “Lento Nigeria Plc is committed to providing the most unique and comprehensive customer service for individuals interested in owning property in Nigeria. Through a network of high qualified real estate professionals, the company offers an unequaled inventory of properties nationwide. All of their energies are devoted to the single objective of ‘Uniting Buyer and Sellers.” The company has developed a range of durable corrugated roofing sheets of carefully selected materials like galvanized iron sheets. With their method of production, which

is continuous roll-forming process, their sheets are made to measure to meet customer’s requirements. Step Tile Aluminum Roofing Sheets are spectacular replacement of the traditional roof tile. Formed with our cold roll forming machine from high quality, they offer a classic appearance that is a delight to behold and suitable for every architectural design. This product is light weight, strong and last long. It is also very cost effective being that it is virtually maintenance free, convenient and easy to install. “Over the years, Lento Aluminum has been working silently for the growth of the building/construction industry with much emphasis on cladding. Cladding is the external envelop of the building that carries no load beyond its own weight and those imposed by rain and/or wind and those that occurred during maintenance. Cladding for roofs is often referred to as roofing, roof sheeting or roof cladding. Aluminum is probably the most suitable materials available today for roof cladding. Lento Easy Roof Tiles Ltd is a subsidiary of Lento Nigeria Plc that deals of stone coated steel roof tiles. It is a world famous, unbelievably light weight roofing system that can enhance the look of your roof with its elegant design and great colour range. Lento Easy roof tile is designed and manufactured to withstand all kind of severe weather such as hot and cold weather, strong wind and heavy rain. It can protect your home against all the destructive forces of nature because

the roofing tiles are designed to overlap and interlock into a horizontal fix system. The granulated stone on the surface give beauty and additional weather protection to client’s roof. Lento Easy roof tiles has a great selection of colours from which will suit each and every customer’s colour preference and its distinctive design will meet any kind of architectural structure beautifully, the colour and design blend in perfect harmony to give a natural and dazzling look to your roof. OMAIS HOMES UNVEILS TERRACE UNITS IN LAGOS RESTIGIOUS residential development has registered its presence in The developers of the high profile projects at Lekki axis as well as Opebi Lagos is the same architect of the dream that turned out to be known today as Trinity Malls in Ikeja Lagos. The company which prides itself as a reference point when shelter for both high and middle class is concerned in Nigeria is radical about improving the perception of Real Estate Investment in Nigeria. Commenting further on their attitude towards their clients, Chief Omochiere Aisagbonhi, the Managing Director of the company reiterates their resolve to keep their client’s needs and wants central; and in the process ,deliver long term relevance of their products and services. At the moment Omais Homes is offering quality and luxurious terrace units in Lekki and Opebi-Ikeja axis while as well putting for sale semi detached house in Gbagada, detached house of 5 bedrooms and 2 rooms boys quarters at

Maryland including but not limited to both residential plots of land in Maryland and a few shops or office spaces at Trinity Mall in Ikeja ,Lagos. Hear the Chief Executive Officer: “all our housing projects is of quality standards. All the rooms are ensuite with fantastic facilities. For instance, most of our properties have fantastic provision like fully fitted kitchen, Swimming pool, ample parking space, sparkling floor, railings, generators, borehole with water treatment facility, security house and dedicated transformer.” The clientele comprises individuals, investors, cooperative societies and organisations that cut across various disciplines. According to the head of Marketing ,they have fully demonstrated through their commitment and passion for taste for any project that they embark their hand upon that building naturally comes to them at Omais homes. In addition to their wealth of experience in delivering projects at the right time to prospective clients, most of the projects are situated in serene environment with expansive parking lot, landscaped environment with styling that is very attractive. It blends with traditional, modern architecture that produces perfect beauty and elegance finishing. The Managing Director said that the locations of the properties is good for every wise investor .He further advised that the location should not send fears to the spine of investors as their organization has flexible payment options available to serious prospective clients.

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PROPERTY GUIDE

BRIEFLY NIA Lagos holds forum on architecture, real estate development Professional Practice By Emmanuel Badejo T the instance of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA), Lagos Chapter, professionals within the construction industry would in the next two weeks gather at the Zinnia and Orchid Halls, New Expo Hall, Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, to discuss the relationship between architecture and real estate development in Nigeria. The parley, is part of the programme outlined to mark Lagos Architects Forum, which provides opportunities for participants to meet with various stakeholders in the construction industry as well as estab-

Head, Sales and Marketing, Portland Paints and Products, Mr. Bukola Adelabu, Director, Project Development Team Limited, Mr. Chuka Okolo; Business Manager, Sandtex Portland Colour Boutique, Mrs. Rita AtuonahChairman, and Fin Consult, Mr. Francis Nwochei during the launch of Crown Trade outlet in Ajah, Lagos

Portland Paints opens new colour boutique Building Materials SUBSIDIARY of UAC, A Portland Paints and Products Nigeria Plc has opened a new colour boutique customer service and sales outlet in Ajah area of Lagos, which has increased the number of retail outlets across the country. The addition of the new Ajah outlet extends the number of Sandtex Paints outlets in Nigeria to 27. The new outlet will present Crown Trade and Sandtex Trade brands of paints and make them available to professional users of top quality coatings and decorative finishes. They come in Silk, Satin, Matt, Eggshell and Mid-sheen finishes. Our Conventional decorative paints under the popular Sandtex family will also be available at the outlet.

The Head of Sales and Marketing, Mr. Bukola Adelabu, who unveiled the outlet explained that the Colour boutique is a one stop shop for Crown Trade Paints, a brand of Crown Paints (UK’s largest paint manufacturer); he also noted that this new Ajah outlet gives more customers who desire colourful walls in their buildings the opportunity to personalize their colours by choosing from over 15,000 colours, customers can also mix their preferred colours in minutes and have access to free colour c o n s u l t a t i o n . Also speaking at the event, Mr Francis Nwochei of Fin Consult, (the outlet franchisee) stressed that the new outlet is an opportunity for homeowners, painters, architects, interior decorators and other building professional

Firm seeks investors into nation’s infrastructure Infrastructure By Laolu Adeyemi ESOLVED to further reduce R the wide margin of infrastructural deficit in Nigeria, experts in the field of investment, Cowrie Partners, has called on local and international investors to join hands with the government towards ensuring infrastructural provision. The firm, at a press brief recently said the nation would need an investment to the tune of $14.2 billion yearly to tackle her infrastructural problems for the next ten years. And spirited to positively impact on the infrastructural challenge, Cowrie Partners, says it has decided to organise

a parley, aimed to encourage both local and international investors into the sector. According to Mr. Sola Adeyegbe, a partner in Cowrie, said his firm in conjunction with Oxford Business Group, Federal Ministries of Power and Water Resources is organizing an international conference on infrastructure and building next month in Lagos, mainly to raise funds. Justifying the coming conference, Adeyegbe said it was obvious that governments cannot single handedly raise the colossal amount needed to turn around the nation’s infrastructure, and there was dire need to private investors come in and salvage the situation.

in and around the axis to avail themselves of this unique value proposition from Portland Paints.

lish bilateral ties with companies. Also, the annual forum, which brings together various companies within the construction industry, usually afford them the opportunity to showcase their products and services; learn about best practices and update skills in current trends in design, development and construction. Similarly the forum has been helpful to understanding the current economic climate; discover innovative methods of development within the current economic climate and understand critical issues affecting viable developments. At a press briefing held last week, Lagos NIA Chairman,

Mr. Ladi Lewis, said with the nexus between architecture and real estate development, it became imperative that experts discuss this issue now that more residential estates are by the day springing up across the state. “We now live in a universal community where the interplay between physical development and economics has become very strong. In the present and contemporary global economy, architecture, urban planning and design as well as landscape architecture must confront the complex mechanisms of development, finance and economics. Real estate and the built environment engage both by considering design and investment as integrally connected.”

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THE ENVIRONMENT

PROPERTY GUIDE

Confab committee backs ministry to supervise environmental issues in PIB bill Expert group urges action on national environmental plan There is the need to understand and appreciate that environment and sustainable development are major global, national and local issues that must be on the high scale in our development agenda. We cannot be on-lookers when other countries are addressing them at the highest level of governance.

The Environment By Chinedum Uwaegbulam RIGHTER days may lie B around in the corner for officials of the Federal Ministry of Environment, with the formal support of the National Conference Committee on Environment for the amendment of the proposed Petroleum Industry Bill ( PIB) to further empower the ministry to supervise all environmental issues in the petroleum sector. The issue was resurrected at the meeting between the committee and the Ministry of Environment, when the Minister of Environment, Mrs. Laurentia Mallam, represented by the Special Assistant, Mr. Jonathan Asake urged the committee to intervene to ensure its duties are not undermined by the PIB bill. After weighing the options for Nigerian environment, the Committee chaired by Senator Florence Ita-Giwa pledged to make recommendations that would

Chairman of the National Conference Committee on Environment, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa (right) receiving documents from the representative of the Minister of Environment, Mr. Jonathan Asake while a member of the committee, and Executive Director, Nigerian Environmental study Action Team (NEST), Prof Chinedum Nwajiuba and another member watches, recently ensure that the ministry retains its functions in the oil industry. Infact, last year during the public hearing at the National Assembly, civil society organisations had kicked against some sections that oust the jurisdiction of both NOSDRA and NESREA. For instance, Nigerian Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA) had recommended that S.289 should be amended to ensure that the federal ministry of Environment is in charge of coordinating, developing

and implementing a holistic environmental policy for the nation. In its presentation, the ministry sought reform of obsolete laws, assistance in reclamation of abandoned mine sites, payments of counterparts funding to multi-lateral agencies, ensure oil companies engage in gas development projects, and increased budgetary allocation. Specifically, in the meeting attended by all the department heads in the ministry, three prominent environmentalists in the committee,

Prof Chinedum Nwajiuba, Executive Director, Nigerian Environmental study Action Team (NEST); Nnimmo Bassey, Director, Health of Mother Earth Foundation and Olu Andah Wai-Ogosu, President, Nigerian Environmental Society, bellied the fact that the ministry was not doing enough to protect Nigeria environment and ensuring gas flaring is stopped in the count r y . Nwajiuba pinpointed concerns of Nigerians, which include making the issue of the environment national

top priority that will be properly attended to, with sufficient finance, improved governance and supported by appropriate laws. “There is the need to understand and appreciate that environment and sustainable development are major global, national and local issues that must be on the high scale in our development agenda. We cannot be onlookers when other countries are addressing them at the highest level of governance,” he said. Amongst the questions, the committee is seeking

answers are, why is it that the National Adaptation Strategy and Plan of Action on Climate Change in Nigeria (NASPACCN) which has been recommended to other countries by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change seeming abandoned by Government? Why does it seem there is the poor implementation of the Green Wall project, and South of Niger Republic greener than Northern Nigeria? How transparent are modalities for managing the ecological

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Stakeholders push for climate change mainstreaming into development agenda For national development to be sustainable, it is imperative to conceptualise the environment as a cross cutting development issue and to ensure that environment resources are properly valued and accounted for in the development process Climate Change By Chinedum Uwaegbulam IVEN the challenges G posed by climate change and environmental degra-

The Director, Social Development, National Planning Commission, Mr. George Nwalupue (left), Director, Department of Climate Change, Federal Ministry of Environment, Dr. Samuel Adejuwon and UNDP Deputy Country Director for Programmes, Bernardo Cocco during the Focused Meeting to Mainstream Climate Change/Environment Issues into National Implementation Plan (NIP-2) of the Nigeria Vision 2020, recently

dation to the attainment of millennium development goals and national implementation of Vision 202020, experts and key government officials have met to integrate Climate Change/Environmental concerns into Nigeria’s development agenda, especially the second National Implementation Plan (NIP-

2). They met at a two-day “Focused Meeting to Mainstream Climate Change/Environment Issues into National Implementation Plan (NIP2) of the Nigeria Vision 2020” organised by the Department of Climate Change (DCC), Federal Ministry of Environment (FME) in collaboration with National Planning Commission (NPC) and the United Nations Development Programme

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Govt begins climate change mainstreaming into national implementation plan CONTINUED FROM PAGE 48 (UNDP) in Abuja. The Permanent Secretary, FME, Dr. (Mrs.) Rabi Jimeta who declared the meeting open, said the issue of climate change is no more in doubt, as over the years, the implication of climate change on development process has increasingly influenced economic performance and livelihood with cascading effects in human health and key sectors of the economy. According to her, Nigeria is currently experiencing climate conditions with adverse impacts on the welfare of millions of its popu-

lation. These include incidences of persistent droughts and flooding, offseason rains, lakes are drying up and increasing desertification as well as great reduction in River flow in the arid and semi arid region of the country. “Northern Nigeria is becoming drier, while the Southern part is getting wetter, increasing incidences of disease, declining agricultural productivity, and rising incidences of heat waves. People in the coastal areas who used to depend on fishing have seen their livelihoods

destroyed by the rising waters,” she said. Represented by the Director, DCC, Dr. Samuel Adejuwon, she noted that it is important to manage climate change risks as part of our development approach, integrating climate change as a cross cutting issue in development plans will protect hard won advances made to date and to be made in the future in reducing national poverty. Such an integrated approach will make development more resilient by reducing climate impacts and identifying development opportunities in Nigeria.

She stressed that mainstreaming climate change/ environmental issues into NIP-2 of the Nigeria Vision 2020-20 will help to address the looming negative impacts of climate change and turn the challenges into opportunities for national sustainable and low carbon development path. Similarly, the implementation of climate change activities therefore needs to be taken more seriously towards achieving Nigeria’s national development plan, transformational agenda and fulfilling Nigeria’s obligations to both the United

Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Kyoto Protocol. UNDP Deputy Country Director for Programmes, Bernardo Cocco disclosed that the meeting was designed to complement ongoing efforts to develop institutional capacities that all levels of government, in order to effectively position Nigeria to benefit enormously from the global shift towards green economy and sustainable development. Additionally, the benefits will not only include reduced risks and vulnera-

Expert group seeks national environmental action plan CONTINUED FROM PAGE 48 Ministry of Environment, funds? Would it help to have the Ministry of Environment play more roles? Other questions include why the slow action on bringing in water to reverse the receding Lake Chad? The Ministry of Environment should consider emerging funding opportunities in the Green Climate Fund. Why is Nigeria always late to almost all Conference of the Parties (COPs) meetings as if an emergency? Is the problem insufficient budget for the

and Nigeria delegates to COPs always late, never prepared, and have to rely on donors? “Is the problem the envelop funding mechanism? Is that a constraint to the Ministry of Environment? Will it help to have provision made for the COP as sub-head in the budget annually? Can the Ministry work towards funding of up to N150 million each year which can be deployed to proper preparation, having a Nigeria stand, have a delegation that includes invest-

ment forum in the area of climate change and includes Nigerian businesses and chambers of commerce? Will this not help in tapping opportunities in climate change?” Meanwhile, a group of experts led by Prof. Olukayode Oladipo in a ninepoint submission called for the development and implementation of a medium to long term national environmental action plan that will ensure the mainstreaming of environmental issues into Vision 20:2020; establish-

ment of the climate change commission; and conducting of environmental assessment and mapping of blight spots to produce State of the Environment Report on a five to 10 yearly basis to measure the nation’s environmental performance. The group is also seeking the review of the present environmental governance structure for enhanced capacity building that will put the ministry and its agencies in a better and stronger position to manage the Nigerian physical envi-

ronment; and reorganize the Ecological Fund Office to have a governance structure with appropriate checks and balances to make it more technically competent and effective. The experts also recommended for the adoption of integrated environmental management approach in the country’s development process; making a clean, healthy and satisfactory environment a constitutional right in which the natural resources are seen as a heritage for the present and

bility, prevention of policy duplications and; enhanced efficiency but would eventually result in the leveraging of greater finances for tackling the negative consequences of climate change to development gains in Nigeria. Cocco said that the ultimate objective of this process on the long run is to improve adaptive capacity, create an enabling policy environment and institutionalize the framework for continued budget support for tackling these issues. NPC Director, Social Development, Mr. George Nwalupue, said the meeting provides an opportunity for stakeholders to harvest inputs for incorporation into the proposed NIP2 of the Nigeria Vision (NV20: 2020). He added that the meeting is coming up at a right time, when climate change and environmental issues and their attendant consequences are now in the front burner. He noted that for national development to be sustainable, it is imperative to conceptualise the environment as a cross cutting development issue and to ensure that environment resources are properly valued and accounted for in the development process.

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BUSINESS INTERVIEW

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There is no better place to invest

Adetu

Seni Adetu is the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Guinness Nigeria Plc. In this interview with Assistant Business Editor, MATHIAS OKWE, he lists the vast opportunities inherent in the nation’s economy, stressing that the World Economic Forum in Africa, being hosted this week in Abuja, will offer alluring options for investors around the globe. Excerpts. OW would you assess the investment climate of Nigeria? H I think the climate is friendly enough. It could of course be better. The economic metrics are strong and positive. As a MINT economy, and with the intent to be a top 20 in 2020, there’s no better place to invest now. The rebasing should have a positive effect because it gives an accurate analysis of the potential of the economy for businesses who want to grow in emerging and sizeable economies. Given your wealth of experience and successes recorded over the years, how do you think Nigeria can best use the opportunity of hosting the World Economic Forum on Africa to attract more foreign direct investment into the consumer goods industry? We have always said that Nigeria is an attractive market with much headroom for economic growth. The recent rebasing of the GDP, I believe, was long overdue and has confirmed what

many investors have always thought about Nigeria. The World Economic Forum on Africa is such a powerful platform for Nigeria to showcase the enormous opportunities in different sectors of the economy to thousands of investors who are converging on Abuja. With reforms opening many sectors up for investment, for instance power and agriculture, the WEF-Africa in Abuja is a real opportunity for attracting foreign direct investment. The world’s top economic and political leaders and decision makers will have a chance to touch and feel the un-matchable economic opportunity in Nigeria. The government has a role to play in providing a conducive environment for businesses to operate and thrive. I expect that government will see this as an opportunity to convince Nigerians and international investors of our country’s commitment to investing more in the infrastructure that makes investment profitable for businesses, workers and citizens.

What are the strategies that can raise the contribution of the manufacturing sector to the GDP and by extension create more jobs and enhance inclusive growth? The manufacturing sector is key to inclusive growth and jobs creation. There are perhaps no examples in the world of economies that have been able to improve the standards of living of a majority of citizens without significant growth of manufacturing. It is a shame that Manufacturing’s contribution to GDP is still only 6.8 per cent of the rebased GDP. We need the government to support this sector even more. For us at Diageo/GN we are active not just in the area of job creation but in overall value addition as well as capacity building for the youth. Our Local Raw Materials (LRM) programme for instance improves the output of local grains farmers who have supported the conversion to local grains in the industry over two decades ago and have continued to do so. Our CSR programmes like the scholarship programme help to ensure

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BUSINESS INTERVIEW

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than in Nigeria, says Adetu that many of the youths in our various communities have the wherewithal to attend higher education institutions and get the education they need to secure a job in the future. Our Graduate Management Trainee programme aims to employ qualified graduates into the company, giving them clear career growth plans that ensure they hold leadership positions within the company within 10 years. Various schemes that we run with our vendors and partners like the Partners for Growth initiative also ensure that we are able to have an impact on job creation at all points through our value chain. How would you assess the importance of power in catalysing job creation and economic growth? Power is key to the sustained growth of any economy. It is probably the one aspect of our economy that if properly resolved would really open the floodgates of investment into Nigeria. Getting power right will be the game changer in many respects– inflow of foreign investment, jobs creation, growth in personal incomes, companies profitability, investment in manufacturing new types of goods in Nigeria, even Nigerians returning from abroad to set up all sorts of businesses. Regular power supply will change the pace of many economic indicators. I know many businesses including ourselves have had to look for alternative sources of power that are often expensive and if this were resolved there could be a significant reduction in operating costs which will eventually trickle down to the consumer, bringing down the costs of goods and consumer pricing and having a ripple effect through the whole of the economy. The impact of constant and reliable power supply could be positively transformational for this economy. The very good news is that Nigeria is on the path to constant supply of power with the privatisation and hand over of the state power firms to private managers who have invested over $3 billion in acquiring the former government power companies. I don’t believe any right-thinking business will invest that much in assets and run it badly. They won’t be recouping their investment unless they supply power to Nigerians. I am optimistic that the new owners will progressively improve power supply as they get to grips with what they have met on the ground. General Electric is investing $1 billion in the sector over five years. Our own Heirs Holding is investing $2.5 billion in the power sector too in addition to the $1 billion the Africa Finance Corporation is putting in the sector. All this is coming in within two to three years of the completion of the framework of sector reform. There is a bit of a time lag between these investments and translation into sufficient power supply-that’s the technical nature of the power sector. But there is no doubt that we are firmly on the way there. What new investments is your group, Guinness Nigeria Plc. making in this economy with the potential of advancing economic growth? At Guinness Plc, we are always investing in our future in this economy because we are committed to Nigeria and are here for the long haul. We believe in Nigeria and believe in our business. We recently finished our capacity expansion project which we announced in 2010, investing N52b in our plants and capacity infrastructure to ensure that we are well positioned to win in this market in the future. We are sure that our example will be a reason for many sceptical investors to attend the World Economic Forum on Africa NIGERIA 2014 and going forward join us on the list of successful investors in the Nigerian economy. We certainly feel that the rebasing exercise which confirmed the true size of the Nigerian economy and the opportunity in it will make many other investors try and understand how companies like Guinness are succeeding in Nigeria. And I don’t have just manufacturing companies in mind. A lot of investment is trickling in to sectors such as e-commerce and entertainment even before the rebased GDP revealed their true size. More foreign investments will flow into these “non-traditional” destinations of

FDI because many more people can now see the opportunity. What has been the level of foreign direct investment in the breweries and the consumer goods industry in general? There has been a lot of investment activity in our sector in recent years. There used to be primarily two big players in the industry but attractive market statistics have brought in an influx of foreign investors. Many of the players in the industry now have come in and have bought over some of the local players and leveraged their financial muscle to expand footprint. Overall investment in the industry is a positive sign and it can only mean development in our sector and this all works out great for the consumer. Stable power will significantly increase the number of firms coming into Nigeria to set up plants to make consumer goods and later down the line capital goods. What is the potential of the breweries/ consumer goods industry in terms of contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth? Currently I think the manufacturing industry has about a seven per cent of GDP, which is pretty low – one of the lowest in the comparative economies in the world. With the right investment in infrastructure and improvement of many indicators of governance, this percentage could grow exponentially. The question is whether we can work to improve infrastructure and other enablers in the business environment in a consistent manner. As I already mentioned, we got power reform right at last and the impact will be felt in a big way in three to four years in terms of jobs creation. But we ought to be getting many other things right simultaneously –the education system, research, transport private-publicpartnerships and so on. What are your projections for the sector’s growth in the next five to 10 years? There is competition in the industry today, which is fantastic for the industry – good for all stakeholders. We have three international companies who have the pedigree of success globally, with the result that their collective efforts can only grow the industry. Secondly, with the per capita consumption in Nigeria being as low as it is, one can only expect that the only way to go is up. The country with some effort will get into a virtuous circle where more investment drives up incomes, then this drives up consumption power again. What sort of impact does security have on the attraction of foreign direct investment and are those effects being felt in the Nigerian economy? The security situation is a very important one and it definitely will have an effect on how Nigeria is viewed as an investment destination. Many people outside the country don’t see the divide that we may see between what happens in the North and what happens in the South and I think it is something that should not be ignored. Nigeria is one country, what happens in the North affects the whole country and it certainly affects the perception of outsiders. While acknowledging what has already been done to curb these terrorist attacks, I feel that the government has to work even more and at pace to bring this menace to an end and truly open up the country to free trade. This will help investors’ confidence in the government and the economy enough to take the initiative to come and invest in Nigeria In view of the need for job creation, from your experience, is there adequate skilled manpower available for the brewery/consumer goods industry in Nigeria? I have said repeatedly that there are four critical success factors for manufacturing: Infrastructure, Cost of capital, Raw material availability and talent There is no doubt that talent is one of the key aspects of the success of any company. I always say that success is achieved on a tripod of people, performance and reputation. Having the first two and not the third is tantamount to failure. § A lot more can be done to prepare our graduates for the realities of the workplace but the importance that we place on training and development allows us to look beyond what

Adetu

Power is key to the sustained growth of any economy. It is probably one aspect of our economy that if properly resolved, would really open the floodgates of investment into Nigeria.

Adetu

The security situation is a very important one and it definitely will have an effect on how Nigeria is viewed as an investment destination. the average company will be looking for in terms of technical skills of graduates coming into the workplace. The GMT programme for example is designed to take a well-disposed graduate through the entire system to enable them gain all the necessary capacity and skill to operate at the highest levels available. Is Guinness Nigeria doing anything to aid skills acquisition in the industry and if so, how successful has this been? Yes we are doing our bit to equip the Nigerian youth with skills for the workplace as we see ourselves as strategic partners to the government in growing the economy. We have a scholarship program that allows students to go to school and we take care of their bills through the period. It has been very successful and we have a number of graduates who have gone on to reach great heights since graduating from the program. We also offer capacity building activities across our partners and vendors from responsible drinking, to counterfeiting and brand assurance

trainings. Even though we have done quite a lot, our commitment is to continue to do more. If you had one piece of advice for foreign investors considering investing in the consumer goods industry in Nigeria, what would it be? Come in with a commitment mind set. You have to come in with the commitment to stay the course. As with many investment destinations there will be some challenges and you have to be prepared to hang in there and ride the wave. More often than not the decision to commit will prove fruitful in the long run – remember, no pain, no gain. The story of that famous telephone company that refused to participate in the first GSM licences auction should be at the back of every one’s minds. Only very few investors would have guessed that Nigeria would be where it is today 10-12 years ago - the largest economy in Africa, many new sectors booming. This story will repeat itself in another five years - new sectors, bigger sectors, new winners.

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Operators strategise to create value for customers By Joshua Nse ONE are the days when G customers were taken for granted in the provision of services in the industry, but the difference is the case today as the operators have taken measures to create value for the consumers. Apart from creating products that meet the needs of customers, the services in the industry has improved considerably particularly in the settlement of claims. Chieftains of the industry

who spoke to The Guardian agreed that the environment has changed from what it used to be, and for the industry to make impact in the economy, the customers are still the king. For instance, Head, Strategy and Corporate Communications, Aiico Insurance Plc, Rotimi Aleshinloye spoke of the transformation in his company to satisfy the needs of the customers. “Aiico is on a transformation path, it is evolving and

dynamic as we have placed our customers high and above everyone else. It is imperative to note that we have taken our customers to heart in all our projections. We plan to remain connected and keep paying attention to our customers needs. It is easier to satisfy our customers when you know his behaviour pattern. According to him, the two primary changes as experienced in the environment is another factor we have taken into consideration. For exam-

ple, the digital revolution has made the customer more technology savvy and aware than ever before. Secondly, he said, the demographic and expectation of the customer has changed, the typical customer of 10 years ago is not the same as today their expectations and positions are different. As such we are repositioning our people to be able to adapt to satisfying those needs, expectation and life styles of these emerging pool of customers.

He explained, “One of the key things we have done in recent times is redefining the company’s structure; as opposed to being configured along business lines of life and non-life (which existed prior to now), to customer type which helps determine if the customer is a corporate customer or a retail customer, knowing that even if they are retail or corporate , we have life and non-life products for them. That is how we are configured internally. We have also translated

Director, Business Segment, Etisalat, Lucas Dada (left), General Manager, FBN Life Insurance, Segun Balogun, Head, Corporate Services, FBN Life, Ngozi Onurah, at the unveiling of Sure4Life, at the weekend, in Lagos

PenOp celebrates with workers ENSION Fund Operators P Association of Nigeria (PenOp) joined Nigerian workers to celebrate the May day in Lagos, principally to remind workers on the need for them to open Retirement Savings Accounts (RSA) for their retirement. The Executive Secretary of the Association, Susan Oranye, speaking during the celebration at Onikan Stadium in Lagos said, “PenOp is here to honour and support Nigerian workers, which is what the workers’ day is all about, the underlying concern for all Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs)

is for the workers, to prepare them for when they would not be able to work again. We are here to appreciate them for all they are doing to sustain the economy. We are also here to tell workers to think of the future, by opening Retirement Savings Accounts (RSA).: The workers are indeed working hard, she said, but they should also understand that after the work they still have bills to pay and how to pay these bills should be planned now that they are in active service. We are calling on the workers who are yet to embrace the

Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) to do that now. According to her, the industry has done exceedingly well, given the persent level of awareness of the scheme. Since the scheme started, about N24 .6 billion have been paid to over 84,000 retirees. There has never been any story. This is what we are trying to make workers understand. This is a new dispensation, it is not like the old scheme where people line up, cry and beg for their money. The new scheme is really working and focused on workers welfare after retirement. It is transparent,

fully funded, safe and every worker should embrace it. It provides decent living for retirees during retirement. She said that the commission and pension operators are working hand in hand to tackle the challenge of nonremittance of funds by employers. PenCom has come up with the names of defaulters and is following them up. PenOp has also been having seminars, interactive sessions with employers to find out why they are not remitting the contributions. We have been educating them on the need to

understand that the fund is for their employees and that they should also consider the system as a corporate social responsibility which helps in boosting the morale of workers. When employers provide secure future for their employees through pension, they would be happy to give their best, which will raise the bottom-line of the employer. This event provides an opportunity for us to introduce workers to the PFAs. Workers in public and private sectors should comply with this scheme which is one of the best means to secure the future of workers.

this into our growth in market and distribution model because the operating model of a company does not end with what goes on inside the company; we understand that the experience is not complete until the customer enjoys the benefit of the business.” According to him, “We have about 54 million people under 30 years of age in Nigeria; that is exactly the entire population in South Africa. When we compare that to how big the South African insurance industry is, in fact if we remove just 30 years and under, we can potentially be bigger than South Africa. But to make all of that happen, we have to ensure that the customer is happy ad is also happy to advocate those experience, these are what we believe will sustain growth in the long term.” The industry, he said, is very different from what is used to be, but our ultimate goal is to create value for our customers. In his assessment of the market, the Group Managing Director, Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, Akin Ogunbiyi, said that insurance in Nigeria contributes 0.49 per cent to the GDP and is ranked number 66 among 88 countries of the world. The fact that we have 160 million Nigerians, insurance contribution to GDP can equally be translated to insurance penetration. According to him, government through the National Insurance Commission in the past five years has actually done much by creating enabling environment for insurance to thrive and occupy its position as one of the contributors to the national economy. He said “In Mutual our commitment is in creating and having a highly successful and sustainable business commitment to deliver superior services to our customers, providing career development opportunities for employees and building value for shareholders remains unwavering.” The Managing Director/CEO, Riskguard Africa, Yemi Soladoye, said there is need to restore consumers trust and confidence in the insurance sector. “There is need more than ever before to restore consumer trust and confidence mechanism; consumer protection and education have to be accorded prime place and institutional building blocks for insurance developmentt in Nigeria need to be sustained.”

Stakeholders fault plan to transfer police pension from PFAs TAKEHOLDERS in the penSgovernment sion industry have asked to exercise caution in the proposed transfer of N305 billion pension savings of Nigeria Police from the Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) to the NPF Pensions Limited. An industry pension consultant, who spoke on condition of anonymity told The Guardian that the proposed move, if granted, has a lot of implications for the Pension

Reforms Act of 2004, the National Assembly should reject and stop the government from withdrawing the funds from the PFAs. According to him, the statutory right of individual contributors including the police personnel to choose their PFAs by themselves under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) as provided by the Act would have been compromised.

Besides, he said, allowing the Police to withdraw the contributory savings of police personnel in bulk would set a bad precedent for the industry, as other parastatals like the Customs, Immigration and others would make similar request, which may affect the stability of the pension industry in the country. Industry stakeholders argued that given the recent

happenings relating to the embezzlement of police pensions outside the PFAs, taking away the funds in the custody of existing professional PFAs to police would spell doom for their future. He said “We have heard and seen how pension funds outside the management of the PFAs, but belonging to the police have been embezzled. Those mismanaged funds are gone and nothing is being done to recover them. The

funds under the management of the PFAs are being targeted in the form of setting up a new NPF PFA to manage the funds. This will amount to entrusting the future of Nigeria police men and women to a few individuals. According to him, the setting up of parallel Police PFA violate the provisions of the Pension Act 2004. “The government and National Pension Commission

(PenCom) should consider the risks taken, efforts and hard work of shareholders and management of existing PFAs in the registration, asset created and value added made over the past eight years in building their portfolios.. The National Assembly particularly the Senate Committee on Pension should take particular interest in this move to stop it before more harm is done to the industry.

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FBN Insurance, Etisalat unveil Sure4Life to boost penetration By Joshua Nse BN Insurance Limited, a member of FBN Holdings Plc and Etisalat, Nigeria at the weekend launched Sure4Life, an airtime-based insurance product designed to increase penetration and consumer access to affordable insurance products via the mobile telephone. The product will help drive availability and accessibility to a vast portion of the uninsured Nigerian population and will provide Etisalat customers with one month free life insurance cover between May and July 2014. The Managing Director and

European insurers are on track to implement Solvency II EARLY 80 per cent of N European insurers expect to meet Solvency II requirements before January 2016, according to EY’s European Solvency II Survey 2014. Overall, Dutch, UK and Nordic insurers are the best prepared, while French, German, Greek and East European (CEE) insurers are less confident. The survey of 170 insurance companies, conducted in the Autumn of 2013, is an update of EY’s 2012 pan-European survey and spans 20 countries including Europe’s largest insurance markets. The findings reveal a consistently high state of readiness to implement the Pillar 1 balance sheet and fulfill most of Pillar 2, systems of governance, but Pillar 3, the reporting requirements, still presents a major challenge. Martin Bradley, EY’s Global Insurance Risk and Regulation Leader, says: “Postponing the Solvency II regulatory deadline to 2016 has bolstered insurer confidence that they can meet the requirements in the time frame. However, as companies become more realistic about their implementation readiness, it is clear that some are less prepared than they had expected - many simply delayed their plans by at least one year, which might cause them issues now. While insurers are sending a strong message that they are seeking to improve their risk management effectiveness, they have a long way to go in terms of reporting, Generally well prepared for Pillar 1; more work needed for Pillar 2: Insurance companies appear to be generally well prepared on all aspects of Pillar 1, with French, Dutch and Italian companies approaching compliance and Greek, Portuguese and Central Eastern European insurers showing a lower level of readiness. However, nearly 85% of respondents see room for improvement in the effectiveness and/or efficiency in meeting Pillar 2 requirements. Martin says: “Insurers know that they need to tackle embedding risk culture at the front line more effectively. The top four improvements identified by insurers as delivering improved risk management effectiveness all related to interface with the front line, but these changes were also ranked as being the hardest to achieve.”

Chief Executive Officer of the underwriting firm, Val Ojumah, said the initiative will help correct the inaccurate perception that insurance is only for the rich and reduce the complexities and paper work often associated with insurance. The initiative also supports our aspiration to bring the benefits of insurance to Nigerians who other-

wise would have remained uninsured. According to him, “We are proud of our increasing contributions to the growth and development of the insurance industry in Nigeria and assure all stakeholders of our continuous efforts to bring the latest innovations in the business for the benefit of the Nigerian populace. We believe in the

strength and sustainability of the telecommunications approach to the insurance business and our ambitions are focused on working together to further enhance the growth and improvements over the coming years”. years”, concluded Ojumah. The Director, Business Segment of Etisalat Nigeria, Lucas Dada, said that the part-

nership will bring inexpensive and easy to reach insurance products to the benefit of Etisalat’s growing prepaid and post-paid customers. “Sure4Life is an innovative insurance product which takes away all the challenges that may be associated with taking an insurance policy and allows our subscribers to access and maintain insur-

NCRIB directs members to submit accounts to NAICOM ORRIED by report that W only 150 insurance brokers out of the 500 strong members of the council have submitted the yearly accounts to the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers (NCRIB) has directed members to

comply with the rules and laws of the industry.. The President of council, Ayodapo Shoderu, speaking at the April members evening in Lagos, said the directives has become necessary to avoid heavy sanctions from the Commission. He said “The need for members to always comply with all

the requirements and regulations for insurance broking practice as enunciated by NAICOM, I must say that the Commissioner for Insurance at a recent meeting with some members of our management committee frowned at the non-compliance of brokers with its regulations. “Permit me to say that one of

the major feats of this administration was the step taken to make NAICOM understand the need to reduce the severity of sanctions often imposed on brokers upon infringement of any of its rules. Happily, you would observe that the commission has yielded to this appeal in its recent dealings with our members. It will,

ance coverage with ease. It is in line with our reputation as the most innovative telecommunications company to provide such life changing products to our customers.” He said. Dada added that the plan is optional and open to all registered Etisalat subscribers that are between 18 and 80 years of age.

therefore , be most advisable to sustain this good relationship by promptly complying with regulations expected of us.” The meeting which was hosted by Old Mutual Nigeria Life Assurance Company Limited, the president said the company will be on the priority list of our members for patronage.

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FINANCIALGUARDIAN

Dangote Cement to increase production capacity by 45 per cent By Helen Oji ANGOTE Cement Plc has unfolded plans to commission additional nine metric tonnes of cement by July, 2014. This, according to the Chairman of the company, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, would increase the company’s production capacity by 45 per cent. Dangote, while addressing shareholders during the company’s fifth yearly general meeting, held in Lagos at the weekend, said: ”By the next 10 weeks, we will go up by 45 per cent. We are commissioning additional nine metric tonnes by July and before the middle of the year, we would increase to 10-12 tonnes of brand new capacity.” He pledged the company’s commitment towards intensify the direct-to-consumer deliveries, as a means of stabilizing the price of cement in the country, adding that the company sold 13.3 million tonnes of cement in Nigeria within the 2013 financial year, representing an increase of 28.2 per cent over sales recorded in 2012. The Chairman, who pointed out that the prices of most inputs into cement production has gone astronomically high, however, assured that the company would do everything within its powers to ensure that the commodity is available to consumers at the most reasonable price.

To stabilize cement price through direct to customer delivery “We have not increased the prices of our product, we have embarked on an initiative to improve the standard of cement sold in Nigeria and our belief is that 42.5 strength cement, is the most appropriate for general use now. “We have recently introduced 52.5 strength cement,which is appropriate for heavy load-bearing structures such as bridges and flyovers, we hope to increase the market share in the short-term by increasing the level of direct-to-customers deliveries and competing on product superiority”, he stated He expressed optimism that the current financial year would offer better returns to shareholders, adding that the company is already increasing it visibility in Africa in order to enhance profitability and increase shareholders’ value. “In Ethopia, work is well underway, to build 2.5m mtpa plant at Mugher with production expected late in 2014. In Tanzania, we have begun work on a 3m mtpa plant at Mtwara and would be fully operational in 2015. In Zambia, work is underway on a 1.5m mtpa at Ndola with cement production expected in second half of 2014. We are reviewing plans for Kenya with a view to increasing the scale of our proposed factory

from 1.5 to 3.0m tpa, because we are confident there will be sufficient demand both in Kenya and neighbouring countries.” Dangote added that the company has concluded plans to build import and grinding facilities along the coast of West Africa to receive and process raw materials supplied from Nigeria, Senegal, and other countries. The Group Managing Director of the company, Devakumar VG Edwin attributed the impressive results of the company to high level of focus and strategic management. “Dangote Cement made excellent progress in 2013. As the Nigerian cement market grew by a strong 15.6per cent we managed even better growth of 28.2per cent, with our revenues increasing by 29.4per cent to 386.2billion. Our direct-delivery strategy is proving very popular with customers and I am pleased to report that direct-to-customer deliveries now account for more than half of our sales. “We increased our margins despite continuing disruption to our gas supply and believe that the gas distribution infrastructure will be more robust in 2014, enabling us to improve our margins even further. At the same time we are looking at ways to diversify our fuel sup-

plies to mitigate the impact of any future disruption and

reduce the cost of using alternative fuels to gas.

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FINANCIALGUARDIAN NDIC tasks banks on tech deployment in product offering By Faith Oparaugo HE Managing Director / Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Alhaji Umaru Ibrahim has projected that the future of the banking industry will be more complex in terms of product offerings, except players become proactive enough to deploy latest technologies. Speaking at a two- day 2014 bank examiners conference tagged “Sustaining a Safe

Commercial Director, Grand Oak Limited, Aare Fatai Odesile (left); Managing Director, Akshay Kumar; General Manager Marketing, Brajesh Kumar and Finance Controller, Mrs. Folasade Adebayo, during the Race 2014 Distributors’ Conference held by the company in Lagos.

UBA Capital mulls dual listings for oil, mining firms By Helen Oji BA Capital PLC, has partnered officials of three major international stock exchanges, as well as the nation’s bourse to facilitate listing of oil, mining companies operating in Nigeria. These international exchanges are the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), the London Stock Exchange (LSE), and the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX). This is following the recent successful dual listing and $500 million Initial Public offering (IPO) of Seplat Petroleum on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and the London Stock Exchange (LSE) respective. According to the bank, each invited Exchange highlighted unique product and service

offerings for companies to raise capital and attract listing. Specific requirements for listings were highlighted, while details of the different country regulations with the advantages of dual listings fully enumerated. The Group Chief Executive Officer, UBA Capital Plc, Mrs Oluwatoyin Sanni, stated that, “UBA Capital is delighted at the excellent contributions from our collaborators in this event, our home exchange the NSE, on which we are proud to be the first listed Investment Banking Group and three leading International Exchanges that is, LSE, TSX and JSE as well as the international Law firms of Jones Day and Freshfields. Today’s event is only one in a series of ongoing initiatives to

support the Capital raising aspirations of African Issuers whilst simultaneously creating attractive and accessible investment opportunities for investors. We shall continue to partner with credible Regional and International Institutions as we pursue our strategic intent to build Africa ‘s leading integrated financial services group”. The Managing Director, Investment Banking, UBA Capita, Wale Shonibare, also noted that UBA Capital Plc is well-positioned to assist clients achieve their capital raising objectives especially in supporting fast growing mining companies and their oil and gas counterparts to raise the much needed equity capital from local and international sources where such capital might be more easily

accessible than in Nigeria due to the specialist knowledge and experience of the investor base in those regions. The Senior Manager, Primary Markets from the LSE, Darko Hajdukovic, disclosed that the LSE has a long experience of listing companies from Africa . The main market of the Exchange currently has 42 listed African companies with total market capitalization of $239 billion. He observed that the LSE’s experience helps African companies seeking listing to, “de-risk the process and enhance their valuation”. Hajdukovic said that London offers a very cost effective option among major stock exchanges. Also speaking, the Business Development Manager from

the JSE Tamsin Freemantle, disclosed that 86 companies listed on the JSE have dual listings. She also disclosed that the JSE has been able to achieve average market liquidity of between 40per cent and 50per cent since 2010. Tamsin explained that dual listings offers companies access to larger and complimentary pools of capital, increased visibility, increased liquidity through two pools of liquidity on the home and secondary exchanges and access to capital from emerging market focused funds. The General Manager, Listings, Sales and Retention, NSE, Taba Peterside, also urged participants to take advantage of the increasing visibility and interest in the Nigerian economy, following the GDP rebasing, to list their

and Sound Financial System through effective banking supervision” in Lagos, Ibrahim added that the industry has continued to face challenges of debt recovery in terms of those owed by the closed banks, some of which remained unrecovered since 1994. According to him, there is need to focus on the challenges faced by the examiners in appraising the affairs of the banks. He pointed out that in tackling the challenges of lending in the Nigerian environment, corporate governance, impact of fixed income securities on the financial position of deposit money banks, technological innovations including mobile payment and their implications for sustainable banking have remained topical. He stated the corporation has commenced implementation of the risk-based supervision and differential premium assessment of deposit money banks. He noted that the dynamics of the financial sector had continued to throw up emerging and mundane issues, which demanded a new focus and made a review imperative. Ibrahim continued that emerging issues like sustainable banking, mobile and ebanking, consumer protection and consumer education had attracted the attention of regulators worldwide.

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Media WPFD: Global lens zooms on journalists as endangered species Issue By Kabir Alabi Garba F the desire of every society of the world is Ifreedom ‘good governance’, then, the fundamental to receive and impart information and ideas through the media must be upheld wholeheartedly. On the occasion of this year’s World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) marked last Saturday (May 3), the Secretary-General, United Nations, Ban Ki-moon tasked Member States of the global body, to reaffirm their commitment “to the fundamental freedom to receive and impart information and ideas through any media, regardless of frontiers, enshrined in article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.” The UN scribe however, lamented that “yet every day of the year sees this right under assault, to the detriment of us all.” Journalists, Ki-moon said, “are singled out for speaking or writing uncomfortable truths – kidnapped, detained, beaten and sometimes murdered. Such treatment is completely unacceptable in a world ever more reliant on global news outlets and the journalists who serve them.” In conflict areas, according to him, “journalists often wear blue uniforms and helmets so that they can be easily identified and protected against attack. As we know from the UN’s own peacekeeping operations, the colour blue provides no guarantee of safety.” He decried the rising profile of journalists as endangered species saying, “last year, 70 journalists were killed, many caught in the crossfire of armed hostilities. Fourteen more have suffered the same fate this year.” He added, “last year, 211 journalists were being held in prison. Some 456 journalists have been forced into exile since 2008. And since 1992, well over 1,000 journalists have been killed — nearly one per week. These are alarming figures. Behind each statistic stands a man or a woman simply going about their lawful business.” Emphatically, Ki-moon said, “there must be no impunity for those who target journalists for violence, intimidation or distorted uses of legal procedures to disrupt or impede their work.” Media freedoms, he urged, “must continue to be at the centre of our work to promote security, dignity and prosperity for all.” He described the on-going discussion about the post-2015 development agenda among Member States as a once-in-generation opportunity to steer the world in a more sustainable and equitable direction, insisting that “free media, traditional and new, are indispensable for development, democracy and good governance.” He explained further, “They can promote transparency about the new goals that Member States will adopt – progress as well as shortfalls. Social media and mobile technologies offer new tools for accelerating citizen participation and economic and social progress. The media’s watchdog function is essential for holding Governments, businesses and others to account.” On World Press Freedom Day, Ki-moon’s message is unequivocal as he called on all governments, societies and individuals to “actively defend this fundamental right as critical factors in achieving the Millennium Development Goals and advancing the post-2015 development agenda.” He expressed strong belief that “Freedom of expression, independent media and universal access to knowledge will fortify our efforts to achieve lasting results for people and the planet.” In Africa, specifically, attention has been drawn to heinous treatment being meted out to journalists and bloggers in Ethiopia as authorities in Addis Ababa, last week, arrested nine of Ethiopia’s most thoughtful, peace-loving, and promising young minds - branding them as criminals involved in anti-state activities. They join behind bars dozens of intellectuals writers, lawyers, professors, and eight other journalists, all victims of a government unwilling to listen to its citizens, intent on clinging to

UN Scribe, Ban-Ki-Moon

DG of UNESCO, Irina Bokova

AU Chairman, Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz

President of Ethiopia, Mulatu Teshome

power by silencing critics, both real and imagined. The actions of Ethiopian leaders are viewed as taking Africa backwards to the dark days of Apartheid and one-party rule, invoking an Orwellian reality of official deception, secret surveillance, and a disregard for honest voices speaking truth to power. Indeed, media rights groups in the continent have labeled Ethiopia’s actions s “an affront to all Africans who aspire to live on a continent that values justice, accountability, equality and freedom, and nurtures the creativity and potential of its peoples.” The theme of this year’s anniversary, Media Freedom for a Better Future, is said to be apt as it underscores the link between free speech, accountability and development. “But nowhere are independent voices more under attack than in Ethiopia, the home of the African Union and embodiment of the new optimism in Africa. World Press Freedom Day is an opportunity to renew Africa’s commitment to freedom of expression and to reject authoritarian tendencies that reduce Africans to subjects not citizens. Ethiopia’s actions are an injury to all Africans who believe in dialogue and engagement in the quest for a better future,” industry watchers have argued. World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in December 1993, following a recommendation adopted at the 26th session of UNESCO’s General Conference in 1991. Since then, May 3, the anniversary of the Declaration of Windhoek is celebrated worldwide as World Press Freedom Day. It is an opportunity to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom; assess the state of press freedom throughout the world; defend

the media from attacks on their independence; and pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Specifically, the Day serves as an occasion to inform citizens of violations of press freedom a reminder that in dozens of countries around the world, publications are censored, fined, suspended and closed down, while journalists, editors and publishers are harassed, attacked, detained and even murdered. It is a date to encourage and develop initiatives in favour of press freedom, and to assess the state of press freedom worldwide. It serves as a reminder to governments of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom and is also a day of reflection among media professionals about issues of press freedom and professional ethics. Just as importantly, World Press Freedom Day is a day of support for media which are targets for the restraint, or abolition, of press freedom. It is also a day of remembrance for those journalists who lost their lives in the exercise of their profession. And in order to elaborately explore this year’s theme: Media Freedom for a Better Future: Shaping the post-2015 Development Agenda, a two-day international conference will open today at the UNESCO Headquarters in Paris with a focus on journalists’ security, the struggle against impunity and trends in press freedom. Similar issues will engage attention of stakeholders in Lagos as the UN Information Centre (UNIC) and its partners mark the Day on Tuesday, May 6, 2014. Discussion is expected to centre around the understanding that “Journalism provides a platform for informed discussion across a wide range of development issues – from envi-

ronmental challenges and scientific progress to gender equality, youth engagement and peace-building. Only when journalists are at liberty to monitor, investigate and criticize policies and actions can good governance exist.” Free media, it has been established, contribute to good governance, empowerment and eradicating poverty. In fact, in the report of the High Level Panel on the post-2015 Development Agenda, good governance is understood as a society’s ability to guarantee the rule of law, free speech and open and accountable government. In turn, freedom of expression is an essential pillar of governance more broadly, because this right enables as many citizens as possible to contribute to, as well as monitor and implement, public decisions on development. The importance of press freedom in promoting good governance is underlined by the increasing numbers of people who have access to an expanded realm of media platforms. As one study has noted: “Press freedom and good governance are not mutually exclusive. They support each other while promoting a country’s economic and human development.” As regards rule of law to ensure safety of journalists and combating impunity, the understanding is that stability and smooth functioning of society has rule of law as its pillar. The argument is that only when the rule of law is respected can citizens have confidence in democratic process over the long term and invest in the sustainable development of their society. The news media is said to have a crucial function as the sector of society most able to promote vigilance towards the rule of law, especially through fostering investigative journalism, promoting the openness of court, legislative and administrative proceedings, access to officials and to public documents. The government has a key role here in protecting the independence and pluralism of the news media, especially during critical moments of these processes. Linked to safety of journalists is the issue of sustainability and professionalism. The assumption is that for free, pluralistic and independent media to play their full role in development, they need to provide a platform for sustainable, professional and credible journalism. It is interesting to note that previous anniversaries of WPFD have always articulated issues of importance to media and society generally. Certainly, experience this year will not be different. The announcement, on Friday, May 2, 2014, of Turkish journalist, Ahmet Şik as winner of the 2014 UNESCO Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize kicked off this year’s celebration. Şik, 44, is renowned as an ardent defender of freedom of expression, and has devoted his career to denouncing corruption and human rights abuses. Between 1991 and 2011, he wrote for several Turkish newspapers, including Cumhurriyet, Evrensel, Yeni Yuzyl and, more recently, Radikal. He has also worked at Nokta magazine and Reuters News Agency as a photojournalist, and is a member of the Turkish Journalists’ Union. The journalist had his first brush with the authorities in 2007, following a critical article in Nokta. On March 3, 2011, he was arrested and detained on charges of being linked to Ergenekon, an alleged terrorist organization. He risks 15 years imprisonment if convicted. The arrest was made just prior to the publication of his book entitled The Imam’s Army, which was seized and banned. The premises of the book’s publisher and Radikal, for whom Şik was working, were searched. Released from detention in March 2012 while awaiting trial, Ahmet Şik resumed his professional activities as an investigative journalist. During the summer of 2013, he was injured while covering demonstrations in Istanbul’s Gezi Park. The $25,000 prize is awarded annually as part of the celebrations for World Press Freedom Day. It is funded by the Guillermo Cano Isaza Foundation and the Helingin Sanomat Foundation.

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Club Ultimate… winning souls through experiential marketing By Gbenga Salau FTEN, experience is said to be the best O teacher. This is because when something is experienced, it is real and practical, not theory or a phantom one, which makes the memory of such experience last longer. Knowing that for their brands to be a top of the mind one, the consumers must not only interact with the brand, the atmosphere around the interaction must be one that would keep the market wowed. This probably is why many brands now engage and connect with their market through one experiential marketing effort that creates conversational encounters and chain reactions before, during and after the event. This is what Nigerian Breweries has been doing with Club Ultimate, with the club moving from one state to another. Before now, the ship had berthed at Port-Harcourt and Lagos and last week it had a stopover at Enugu, where for days, the city of Enugu hosted the Gulder Club Ultimate ship. As the club party moved from one city to another, it ensured that members of the virtual club are hosted in a ship-like club venue. Besides, the ship on land, the club venue of the party, the partying within the ship is a gaga experience. The two days that the event lasted in Enugu, members of the club were entertained by two deejays, who dished out popular and hit songs of artistes from across continents. On the first day, as the day gets wined down, guests starting walking into the Polo ground, the host venue of the Club Ultimate ship. The towering ship on land no doubt kept many in the mood to expect something extra-ordinary within the ship but the format it would take none could describe, until they got in. Welcoming the club members into the ship were pictures of great and outstanding personalities from different fields of endeavour; sports, politics, entertainment, which has representation from across continents, and have positively shaped their immediate environment and the world. Great minds within Nigeria were also represented. The personalities whose pictorial representations were displayed are Sunny Okosun, Tina Turner, Micheal Jackson, Steve Wonder, Oliver De Coque, Fela Kuti, Mandela, Pele, Bruce Lee, Serena Williams, Muhammed Ali, Tiger Woods and King Sunny Ade. Inside the ship are two deejays on a wheel on both ends of the hall dishing out the songs that got the hall vibrating as the guests danced and sang along. Though the hall was filled to the brim, the loosely arranged seats, which allowed club members to move around freely and danced unhindered ensured that the setting was not too rowdy while the atmosphere provided a convivial atmosphere. The hall was arranged in a typical club one with varied sizes of chairs to seat on with supporting fancy tables. While in a typical hall, all kinds of drinks and alcohol were on hand to ensure that the guests had a fun filled and exciting day, in this, it was only Gulder that was on offer and available. And that the guests enjoyed and had fun was seen in the way they danced and sang as they went to refill or take another cup of Gulder, which was available in large quantity. So, for many Enugu residents, it was also an opportunity to end the weekend on a relaxed, fun filled way. Probably for those who wanted to sit and enjoyed the night seating and not crisscrossing from one section of the hall to another, there was a VIP section where people sat having fun, though occasionally some members

Fun seekers at the club in Enugu last week of the VIP stood to dance, especially when they get elated by songs dished out by the deejay. There were two giant screens mounted at both ends of the hall too. The screens were showing different scenes within the hall especially those with some wired blend. This served as fillers for many to watch, as they were not left blank, especially those who had to stop dancing occasionally. Majority of those in the hall were youths, even those who did not make it into the hall. Those outside no doubt longed to have a brief of what was going on inside but they could not because they could not meet the requirement. That majority of those around whether within or outside the ship are youth is a contrast to the general notion that it is only the elderly member of the society that consumes Gulder. The speed with which they went to refill their cup for another round of drink further state that it is a drink accepted by the youths within the society. This no doubt helps connect the brand to the youth segment of the society, which the brand is yearning and craving for, thereby disabusing the notion that Gulder is a product of the elderly. Subtly, the Gulder brand is being gradually repositioned in the mind of Nigerians as many who were present at the venue and had held the notion that it is a beer for the elderly would have a rethink. Looking at the club members’ party that night, it could be described as an electrifying, elevating and exciting one, which was put in perspective by those who shared their experience in a chat. Sharing her experiencing clubbing that night, Theo-dora Mark said that it was amazing for her, because the spirit inside the hall was and could ignite fire, as the crowd within was awesome. To her, though she had a clue that it was going to be a club setting but felt it was going to be a normal club party setting. “ I never expected it to be this good as every-

thing was on point,” she stated. She revealed that the excitement within the hall compelled her into taking Gulder for the first time, which gave her an experience that it was a calm drink. She said though she goes to club but the experience she had with the Club Ultimate was out of the world as it was exceptionally packaged. According to her, inside of the hall also wowed her, as she never expected the hall to be that bubbling and creatively put together. “All those who created the concept and set up the whole project must be highly commended because as a lot of energy and creativity must have been put into this to make it as success.” For Okechukwu John, another member of the virtual club, the experience was all right and fun-filled, as he had not seen something like that in Enugu before now. According to him, it was his brother who informed him about the party and he decided to join him and his fiancé. “The funny part of it was that I did not even know what to expect, I just felt that there is something going on, lets go to see what it is like. Whether it was a comedy thing or artiste coming to perform, I do not know what it was about, though I felt it was going to be fun.” He said when he got to the venue and saw the dummy ship; he was surprised, which was why a lot ran through his mind. “I told my friend this is good stuff because I have not seen something like this in Enugu. It was worth the whole time because it is quite amazing.” If he experienced Gulder, he responded yap, “am experiencing Gulder, I appreciate their effort towards creating this avenue for people and the folks around here to party in a great style. The organisation is good. Everybody was happy, as I see more people coming in than leaving because they were having a nice time out.” Giving an insight on the amount of efforts and energy into creating the scene, the CEO,

Oracle Experience Limited, Felix Eiremiokhae, whose company created the scene, said the company’s crew was on site for seven days though about one month was spent off site preparing before things were brought to site to build. According to him, the idea was to help deepen the Gulder share of the market. He further said that the Ultimate Club idea was created because the bigger challenge with Gulder is that looking at the whole dynamics surrounding the Nigeria Breweries, as a family, Star is known for music and for Gulder to move away from music and also tap into entertainment, it has to do something different which gave birth to the club idea. “And going into the club, there are two things to generate, because it is not just about the people at the venue of the show, but also how much conversation the activation can create. And to get that will not be possible with having the ordinary club, but one that will create a buzz, which was gave birth to the ship idea. “This is more so that Gulder is about prestige. And those days and even now, if you have the money and wants to enjoy yourself, you go on a cruise. This is besides standing out from the crowd. “It is the ultimate club experience; it is the only club you go to, you see two deejays playing from both sizes roving across each end of the hall. It is also the only club you go to, you see acts you are not used to seeing everyday.” It was however reliably gathered that Nigerian Breweries is keen about the Eastern market because the project is aligned with the business strategy of the company, the eastern part at this stage is where the brand wants to focus on. This is because the region is where the highest bottles of beer are consumed, which means it is the biggest beer market, with about 50 percent of beer brewed in Nigeria consumed within the region.

National channel from Radio Nigeria underway By Gbenga Salau F the words of the new Director ICorporation General of the Federal Radio of Nigeria (FRCN), Mallam Ladan Salihu were anything to be considered, Nigerians would soon begin to tune in to a national radio channel from any part of the country. Salihu said this in Lagos at the Merit Awards and Reception party held in honour of the DG. The Lagos Operation of the FRCN organized the event. Mallam Salihu maintained that it is

important that Nigerians have access to a radio station that they can listen to as they move from one state or region without alteration. He also believed that the channel would propel the station to greater heights, free regional and state channels from always altering its schedule because it needs to hook up to national programmes meant to be broadcast across the country. For him, Nigerians are looking up to FRCN and its staff to perform and deliver on quality broadcasting. He maintained that the station and its

staff have no excuse to fail, “as we are professionals, but if we do not succeed, then we have killed the initiative of generations coming after us.” Salihu commended the Lagos operation for instituting the award, which is being planned as a yearly show to recognize and reward outstanding staff. According to him, the Lagos Operation has always raised the bar in terms of quality and delivery. “ I am overwhelmed and literarily blown away but particularly happy and elated for the event. The reasons are simple, we celebrate professional-

ism in our mist, those who have carved a niche and have helped in shaping and reshaping who we are as a corporation.” He congratulated all the nominees, as every one of them is a winner. The Director, Lagos Operation, Mr. Ike Okere, disclosed that the award was set up by the Lagos operation because of the need to reward those contributing to its success. “We cannot achieve professionalism without the staff, clients and independent producers,” he said. Okpala Ifeoma got the Editor of the

Year Award; the Reporter of the year went to Omosanya Omolara; the Producer of the year was Obaseki Uchenna while Koko Inu Iwe Irohin was adjudged the highest revenue station programme. Also rewarded were Iheanacho Kingsley who got the accountant of the year; Ogbekhilu Andrew, the Administrator of the year; Eniola Clemet smiled home as the Marketer of the Year while Oloyede Olajide and Adeogun Ebenezer went home as Techonologist and Engineer of the year respectively.

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Businessman sues Police for N100 million over alleged unlawful arrest By Bertram Nwannekanma LLEGING unlawful arrest A and detention in an unknown destination, a Lagos ex-transport union leader and businessman, Toba Ajiboye has dragged the Police before a Lagos High Court, Ikeja demanding the sum of N100 million over alleged violation of his fundamental rights. Ajiboye was arrested by the police in his Surulere home in connection with the latest crisis by Akala boys of Mushin area of Lagos. In the enforcement of his fundamental rights suit filed on his behalf by members of his family, the applicants alleged that he was arrested

without warrant in his Surulere home on April 24, and was allegedly brutalized. Joined in the suit are the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, CSP Ibrahim Alhassan, (DPO Badagry police station). He are asking the court to declare that Ajiboye’s arrest without warrant and continued detention in Badagry police station since Thursday April 24, 2014, without disclosing any offence against him and without trial are illegal and unconstitutional. Ajibola also pray for an order discharging him and that he be directed to be released by the police where ever he is detained as well as a mandatory order, compelling the

1st respondent (police commissioner) to ensure “that the N1 million carted away by the agents of the 1st respondent from the house of the applicant on Thursday April 24, 2014, when they invaded the place and whisked the applicant away be refunded to the Applicant forthwith.” He also demanded compensation in sum of N100 million against the respondents jointly and severally for his “illegal and unconstitutional violation of his fundamental

rights, as well as apologizing in two national newspapers. The family in the affidavit in support of the motion had claimed that they did not know if her husband is dead or alive, stressing that the police has denied Toba’s relatives and the lawyer physical access to him. Nkem also averred that when the man was arrested by the police, he was beaten up and that the police was also supported by some hoodlums who allegedly at-

tacked him, “with all sort of weapons including broken bottles which they actually aimed at his neck but miraculously they did not hit target In the Motion on Notice, a copy of which was made available to The Guardian yesterday, Ajibola’s family including his wife, Mrs. Nkem Ajiboye and his junior brother, Sulaiman Babajide alleged that all efforts to see him since he was arrested has proven futile, until a Lagos lawyer and rights activist, Mr.

Nurudeen Ogbara took over his case and traced him to Badagry, where he was allegedly detained. The applicant in affidavit in support of the motion deposed to by Ajiboye’s wife, Nkem, also claimed that despite the fact that the man whereabouts was traced to Badagry police station, he was not allowed to meet with his lawyer, Ogbara or any member of his family. No date is yet fixed for the hearing of the application.

Arewa chief, Sani opposes resource control • Says it will endanger national unity, stability From Saxone Akhaine, Northern Bureau Chief ORTHEN political chief N and delegate at the ongoing National Conference, Mr. Anthony Sani, has warned that those canvassing resource control in the country should consider the corporate interest and unity of the nation, saying that the proposal may not forge the cohesiveness of Nigeria. According to him, resource control, as agitated for by the South-South was capable of dividing Nigerians further, “I do not believe only northern delegates are against resource control,” he staqted. “Most delegates do not subscribe to resource control. And there are reasons for this. First, resource control goes against the concept of nationhood, which presupposes that the people come together and helped to unlock their synergistic potential for the good of all.” Sani, in a statement said, “the argument that constituent parts of the country should develop at their own pace goes against the universal notion that wide gaps in incomes or wide inequality among groups in a country is manifestation of imperfections in leadership,” stressing, “that is why both World Bank and World Economic Forum insist that reduction of wide gaps in disparity in incomes is not only good politics but also good economics. “Resource control would make Nigerians live as if they are in different continents. What is more, for constituent parts to control their resources and pay taxes to the central government will tilt the country to confederation with weak center with dire consequences for the unity and oneness of the country. “That may explain why solid minerals, oil field and natural gas have been in the exclusive list in 1960,1963,1979,and 1999 constitutions. “The other day I over heard an elder statesman said agitations for resource control were inspired by observations that while bridges were being built over land in Abuja, rivers in oil producing

communities are without bridges. “But the same oil producing communities hanker that their own share of money for derivation be given to them directly because their state governments short change them when they use derivation for construction of fly overs, five star hotels and airports in the state capitals to the chagrin of oil producing communities. “So how far down can resource control go? The argument that it is resource control that has made non-oil producing states not to be viable is neither here nor there, precisely because apart from Lagos State, no any state of the federation pays salaries without federal allocations. “That the economy of Nigeria is not diversified today is not due to lack of resource control but due to cheap oil money which drives away productive money.Gresham’s Law you might say. And that is why the groundnut pyramid and textiles industries have collapsed in the North, and the South, which gave Malaysia the palm oil seedlings is no where near Malaysia in production and export of palm oil. “So our problems is not lack of resource control but due more to failure of leadership at all levels. I agree with Lee Kuan Yew, the father of Singapore, when he says We cannot afford to forget that public order, personal security, economic and social progress, and prosperity, are not the natural order of things, that they depend on ceaseless effort and attention from an honest and effective government that the people must elect.” Sani, who is also the spokesperson of the Northern Delegates Forum (NDf) added, “what is required is for Nigerians to make judicious use of their democratic rights and ensure that their votes count so that the ensuing leaders at all levels will be accountable and strive to deliver on the promise of democracy. This is because feckless leaders are often elected by those voters who do not turn out and vote.”

Chief Operating Officer, Oando Marketing Plc, Mrs. Olaposi Williams; receiving Oando Award for most innovative and impactful company in the Downstream Oil and Gas Major Marketers from the Chairman, Ikeja Hotels Plc, Mr. Goodie Ibru, at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry 2014 Commerce and Industry Awards in Lagos.

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A Guide To Buying Commercial Real Estate take into consideration the potential risk and benefits that a purchase may hold for your business. Some of the risks/benefits involved in investing in commercial real estate are as follows; • Buying in to commercial real estate may be more beneficial than leasing if you are buying to maximize return on investment. • Owning your commercial property adds to your asset appreciation over time, which means that your company's equity grows. • It is critical to buy commercial properties in the right location. The right location ensures that your business is at the heart of select target audience and is easily accessible by your The IREE was inaugurated in 2012: clients, key suppliers, and associated busiVision: To raise the standards in the nesses. The right location also conveys a cerNigerian real estate industry through profes- tain kind of impression to your target audisional training and coaching to meet inter- ence which in turn benefits your business. It is also important to note that the locations national standards. that are “hot” today might not be so tomorrow and vice versa. Cutting Edge Real Estate

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properties in preferred location within the budget and also facilitate negotiations between buyers and sellers; an Attorney to conduct due diligence on the property, prepare formal offers, reviewing all documents, and ensure contracts are sufficiently detailed, and structured to your maximum

News. Trends . Advice he Intelligent Real Estate Series is a bi-weekly column aimed at educating readers on matters relating to the real estate industry. We will be discussing the various factors that affect the industry, current trends and future projections in practicing real estate in the 21st century as the industry is continuously evolving and business is no longer business as usual. Enjoy!!!

• Buying of commercial real estate when the finances to do so is not readily available can lead to loss of liquidity. • If you intend to put up your commercial OMMERCIAL real estate according to real estate for lease, it is important to underWikipedia refers to buildings or land stand that leasing is not always the best intended to generate a profit, either from option for cash flow. Tenants can default capital gain or rental income. Commercial with their payment date, or even out rightly real estate includes office buildings, strip decide not pay at all, and if you are dependmalls, restaurants and any other real estate ing on the income it can turn out to be very in which people conduct business. disappointing. Investing in commercial real estate just like • The income that a piece of commercial real any other business decision, has its risks estate produces is directly related to its and benefits. There is the need for expertise usable square footage which leads to higher and careful strategising before a well yields. informed decision can be reached on 2. Seek advice from a team of experts: whether or not to purchase or lease a com- When considering the option of buying a mercial real estate. commercial real estate you need knowledge There are some basic steps to take before and experienced advice before you go ahead you purchase a commercial real estate and with the purchase to enable you make the they are outlined below; right decisions. Your team should be proper1. Analyze the risk and benefits of purchas- ly selected based on their track records and ing commercial real estate: working styles. The team should consist of a When making the decision to purchase a Real Estate Professional who specializes in commercial property, it is important to commercial real estate to help select suitable

Intelligent Real Estate

advantage; an Accountant to help figure out what your business can afford and analyze the tax and operating budget benefits; an Insurance Agent to insure your assets; a Business Advisor to provide solid perspective and advice in the financial process; and/or a Mortgage Broker/Lender to provide finance if required. 3. Choose the property wisely: Some of the things to take into consideration when choosing the right commercial proper-

ty for your business include location, accessibility, sale/lease price, size and layout of space, type of building, construction, available facilities including administrative support and meeting areas, car parking, security, opportunities for expansion, and lots more. Once you have shortlisted the commercial property that best suits your requirements, work with the owner on the right price. 4. Get financing for the purchase of the property: Make sure before you apply for any mortgage (if needed) you already have the down payment covered, as well as proof of income to cover the monthly payments. Commercial properties generally attract a higher down payment than residential properties. At this point, you need to have your lawyer explain every detail of the sales/purchase agreement (SPA) so that you know exactly what your rights and obligations are. Commercial real estate like residential properties is also affected by the law of demand and supply. There is no one-size-fits-all strategy for purchasing commercial real estate. That decision must be weighed by individual businesses and their specific requirements and goals. Investing in commercial real estate is a long-term affair and it is important you get it right from the start.

REAL ESTATE TRIVIA Question. What economic factor can make the purchase of a home an excellent long-term investment? Answer.: Home price appreciation can result in a substantial return on the buyer's investment as a house increases in value over time Please send your questions or comments to iree2013@gmail.com.

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Sports Amuneke warns Eaglets on complacency

Ahead Brazil 2014 World Cup

Westerhof tips Eagles for second round

By Alex Monye ATIONAL Under-17 Coach, N Emmanuel Amuneke, has warned that none of the player

• Bazuaye warns against sentiment UPER Eagles’ former coach, Sbelieves Clemens Westerhof Nigeria will qualify for the second round of the Brazil 2014 World Cup with a game to spare. Stephen Keshi’s men will play Iran then BosniaHerzegovina before their final group match against favourites Argentina. “I strongly believe Nigeria will qualify for the round of 16 before their match against Argentina,” Westerhof said. “For me, Iran and Bosnia are no worries for the Super Eagles. We will always beat them.” Westerhof also disclosed that he has kept in regular contact with Keshi, who was his captain for many years. “I’m in constant touch with Keshi and I always offer him my advice. I tell him to look out for players who are ready to fight on the pitch for the nation.” Westerhof steered the national side to their first ever World Cup finals in 1994. Meanwhile, Super Eagles’ former winger, Baldwin Bazuaye, has urged Coach Stephen Keshi to set aside sentiments in his selection of players for the Brazil 2014 World Cup. Bazuaye wants Keshi to ‘for the love of the game and the country’ extend invitations to some players who have been frozen out of the national team in recent years. He identifies players like Vincent Enyeama, Osaze Odemwingie, Emmanuel Emenike, John Mikel Obi and Ikechukwu Uche as players the team should not do without, as they will be the biggest assets for Keshi at the World Cup in Brazil. “Just take a critical look of the players I mentioned to you now, they are players that have been tested and trusted in their fields, so you do not need a second Prophet Moses to tell you that they need to be on your World Cup list,” he said. He went ahead to describe Enyeama as one of the best goalkeepers around, pointing to his performance in the previous World Cup in South Africa as evidence of his expe-

rience and skills. He also described Odemwingie as one of the best players in the country, singling out his tactical prowess and high level of experience as necessary ingredients for success. “Osaze Odemwingie is one of the best if not the best. He is intelligent, committed, devoted and highly a business-like player. Very tactical on the ball and above all, with a high level of experience that any coach needs from a player,” he said. Although Bazuaye described Emenike as a competent striker who has paid his dues, he added that an invitation should also be handed to Ikechukwu Uche and other out-of-favour players. He posits: “Also for the interest of the game and the country, it is time we put the past behind us, no matter what must have transpired between the out-of-favour players and the technical crew, there is chance for forgiveness. “All over the world, players are extremely difficult people to manage and again you do not judge players by the kind of things they say or do, but by what they can do for you as a coach to win your games in times of difficulties.”

Almeria’s Ramon Azeez.

Spanish La Liga: Azeez boosts Almeria’s survival hope, Atletico Madrid falter IGERIA’S Ramoin Azeez N gave Almeria’s supporters something to cheer when his header ensured that the 10-man team defeated Real Betis to boost their survival hopes on a day leaders, Atletico Madrid’s challenge suffered a major hit. Azeez’s late header moved Almeria out of the relegation zone following a 3-2 victory over already relegated Real Betis. Oscar Diaz and Aleix Vidal were also on target in a topsyturvy second half at Juegos Mediterraneos, in which Suso was sent off 10 minutes after the break as Francisco Rodriguez’s side moved up to 16th in the Primera Division with two matches remaining.

Betis scored a second-half equaliser through Braian Rodriguez and then Salva Sevilla handed them a temporary lead before the home side struck back. Atletico Madrid’s bid to be crowned Primera Division champions for the first time since 1996 suffered a major blow as they were beaten 2-0 at mid-table Levante, a result that gives fresh hope to title rivals Barcelona and Real Madrid. Following Barca’s surprise home draw with Getafe on Saturday, leaders Atletico knew if they won their next two games against Levante and Malaga they would clinch the title ahead of their last-day meeting with the

defending champions. However, an early own goal from Filipe Luis saw Atletico fall behind at the Ciutat de Valencia and then David Barral added a decisive second for Levante midway through the second half. Diego Simeone’s men pushed hard to try and get something back in the closing stages but they could find no way through to leave Barca and Real Madrid celebrating an unexpected boost in the title race. On Saturday, a stoppagetime goal from Angel Lafita snatched a dramatic 2-2 draw for Getafe at Barcelona. A Barca victory looked likely when Alexis Sanchez fired home in the second half after

Lafita had earlier cancelled out Lionel Messi’s opener. But struggling Getafe grabbed an unlikely point with another equaliser from Lafita - 90 seconds into stoppage time. Getafe are now unbeaten in three La Liga matches to keep their noses above the relegation zone.

in his team should consider himself already in the final squad, adding that they should all buckle up for the tasks ahead. Amuneke, whose team recently won the bronze medal at the WAFU B Championship in Togo, told the player and other prospective stars that changes in the squad is an on-going process that would culminate in the final team later. According to the team’s Media Officer, Morakinyo Abundunrin, the second phase of the screening, which started on May 1, has thrown up some new prospects and the fight to be part of the team continues with much intensity even as Amuneke warned for the umpteenth time that nobody is guaranteed a shirt yet. The release by Abundunrin quotes Amuneke as saying, “I have to be frank with you and the truth is that I am not happy with some of you because you have forgotten so soon all what we learned in Togo. “But one thing is clear, those of you who are not ready to play for the team would soon go home.” Meanwhile, the secondphase of screening is gathering momentum with hundreds of players drooping to the NFF/FIFA Goal Project Pitch in Abuja since the exercise began on Thursday and the drilling would continue throughout this week. Amuneke said there is a level playing field for all-comers, adding that the number one consideration for selection is nothing other than merit. “What we are doing here is very practical and if a player cannot show what he can do in 25 minutes, I don’t think he would give anything in 90 minutes,” Amuneke further said.

English Premiership

Chelsea’s challenge peters out, Norwich fall short N the end, this result may Iboth actually have put paid to these side’s lingering hopes this term. The Chelsea team returned to the turf after the final whistle for their “parade of appreciation” with a goalless draw having surely confirmed José Mourinho’s oft-stated belief that the title will be beyond them. They are a club with a summer of further tweaks to the personnel on their minds. For Norwich City, despite securing a draw that should provoke some satisfaction and

earned a rapturous ovation from the travelling support, the immediate future is grim. The first point of Neil Adams’s interim stewardship has most likely come too late in the day to save City. The visitors departed still two points below the cut-off and their relegation can effectively be confirmed on Wednesday night if Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion, the two teams immediately above them, play out a draw on Wearside. This may have been encour-

aging, and they can cling to the hope that Albion and Swansea City prevail this week at the Stadium of Light, but a three-year stint among the elite appears to be drawing to a close. The visitors had competed well for long periods, albeit against lacklustre hosts, whose energy appeared to have fizzled out in the wake of their elimination by Atlético Madrid in the Champions League semifinals, and with others having the advantage in the title

race. Andre Schürrle and Nemanja Matic each struck the woodwork for the home side, the latter having been introduced at the interval along with Eden Hazard in a desperate attempt to enliven proceedings. But there was too much stodginess to Chelsea’s play, too little zest against opponents who, belatedly, had found some resolve away from home. This was their first point in nine games away from Carrow Road. It is that slackness that has cost them.

Chelsea’s John Terry (left) vies with Norwich City’s Johan Elmander during their English Premier League match at the Stamford Bridge…yesterday. PHOTO: AFP.

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2014 World Team Table Tennis Championship

Nigeria narrowly misses out from promotion, finishes 7th IGErIA yesterday failed to N qualify for the championship class at the 2014 Word Team Table Tennis Championship when the Segun Toriola-led side fell narrowly to England in the quarterfinal stage of the Division Two play-off to end in the seventh position. From the performance of the team in Tokyo, Japan, it was an outstanding outing for the team only marred by the loss to England. But the game against the Queen’s men put the team in good frame for the 2014 Commonwealth Games holding in Glasgow, Scotland in July this year. England most times dominate Nigeria in their meetings, but with what transpired in Tokyo at the weekend, Nigeria is returning to its fine form with the excellent performance by the quartet of Toriola, Aruna Quadri, Ojo Onaolapo and Kazeem Makanjuola. Having come through from the group to beat Turkey in the knockout stage, the team started the match against England on a good note when Quadri, who finished 16 at the 2014

Spanish Open, beat the Paul Drinkhall 12-10, 6-11, 11-9, 11-6 to give Nigeria a 1-0 lead. Drinkhall won the Spanish Open few weeks ago in the city of Almeria in Spain but against Quadri he was beaten black and blue. Toriola increased the lead when he fought well to beat Liam Pitchford 10-12, 12-10, 8-11, 11-6, 11-6. But the turning point for the English side was against Onaolapo, who was beaten 11-5, 11-7, 11-6 by Daniel reed. This put the overall result at 2-1 with Nigeria leading. The win against Onaolapo brought out the best in the British players, who won their next two matches against Quadri and Toriola. In the fourth game, Pitchford avenged Drinkhall’s loss to Quadri when he overwhelmed Quadri 5-11, 11-6, 5-11, 6-11, while Drinkhall rounded up the game with 6-11, 11-9, 5-11, 9-11 win over Toriola to put the overall result at 3-2. Even in victory, however, England captain, Drinkhall admitted that the encounter against the Nigerians was the

Members of the Cowbell Academy recently recruited by Stationery Stores of Lagos.

Cowbell Football Academy invites others for Super Six tourney EADING Lagos-based footLAcademy, ball academy, Cowbell will host a Super Six tournament involving teams drawn from across the country from tomorrow to May 11, officials of Promasidor Nigeria, owners of the academy, have revealed. Unveiling fixtures for the tournament in Lagos recently, the CEO of Multi Sports Services and rector of Cowbell Football Academy, organisers cum sponsors of the tournament, Godwin Dudu Orumen, said, “Cowbell Football Academy and my company, Multi Sports Services (even though some people might not be able to separate both), are partnering in this invitational tournament that is attracting five other academies. “We have the Kwara Football Academy, City of David Academy, Gbagada Academy, Edo State Academicals and Lagos State Academicals, who are coming to do battle with the Cowbell Academy at the Super 6 Tournament. “We are hoping that the

Minister of Sports will come and declare the tournament open. We have also asked the Governor of Lagos, Babatunde raji Fashola, for cup trophies for the winners of the tournament. “We hope we will be able to generate that kind of atmosphere where people will experience well organised academy football competition that will serve as a yardstick for setting standards. We have invited about 30 FIFA licensed football scouts and agents.” He said football lovers should look forward to an exciting football fiesta during the Super Six Tourney. “We are providing Nigerians the opportunity to see our future in football today so that they can gauge. These are six academies coming with 20 players each to the tournament. That’s 120 youngsters coming to do battle; there is no way the national team will not identify say may be, 10 players that will be worthy of a national call up to camp and club sides.”

most difficult for them in the tournament. “We’re really happy to have come through, we had a difficult start to the match with me losing the first match. I think if I would have won that, we might have won 3-0; this was the first real test for our team and I am happy we made it through. I think we can take this match as positive,” Drinkhall admitted. Despite the defeat, Table tennis buffs could not help but applaud the Nigerians for giving a good account of themselves against England, as well as their overall performance in the competition.

Milo African Championship:

Team Nigeria intensifies training in Ilorin IGErIA’S representatives N at the third Milo Africa U13 Football Championship (MAC), St. Barnabas LGEA, Kwara State intensified training during the week with two friendly games played and four more scheduled in the days ahead. The squad is training at the renowned Kwara State Football Academy in Ilorin, Kwara State. The lads are being taking through their paces by veteran coach Paul Adam Odey, a Confederation of African Football B-licensed coach who has enjoyed a rich career handling leading Professional League clubs in Nigeria and Benin republic. Coach Odey spoke about the progress made by the primary school pupils, the third set to represent Nigeria in the tournament the country won its maiden edition in South Africa in 2010 and lost in the finals of the second edition to hosts, Ghana in 2012. “I am very satisfied with the performance of the boys, you know they are very young and their mind is impressionable at this period of their development, so we are taking them through the basics which will provide them the needed grounding to become all round players in the future,” explained the Coach, who handled ex-internationals like Monday Odiaka and Frankline Howard, while managing Dragons of Benin republic.

Despite Toriola’s efforts, Nigeria could not qualify for the championship class at the World Team Table Tennis Championship.

Ibirogba lists expected gains of DAWN Games AWN Games’ Chairman, D and Publicity Subcommittee, Lateef Ibirogba, has said that the tournament would help foster good relationship among the youth of the south-west states of the country. The maiden edition of the DAWN Games, a competition among secondary schools in Oyo, Ogun, Lagos, Ondo, Osun and Ekiti States, will be held in Lagos from May 16 to 24, 2014. Ibirogba, who is also the Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State, said the competition would bring youths in the region together to com-

pete in a healthy environment, adding that the games is symbolic because the south-west states want to show the rest of the country the cordial relationship that exists within the people and governments of the region and the need to use youth and sports to preach unity among the people. Meanwhile, as the kick off date of the Games draws nearer, Team Ogun say they can’t wait for the school sports championship to start. Director of Sports, Ogun State Sports Council, Adesola Faleti, said the state’s athletes are ready and are in good

sporting form to excel at the competition. “The athletes have been training for a couple of months. We are going to participate in 12 sports events and in Ogun State, we specialise in more than 33 sports, thus taking 12 out of 33 won’t be a problem for us,” said Faleti. Faleti noted that the Games would enable Ogun State Sports Council to assess its grassroots developmental programmes which has been well supported by Governor Ibikunle Amosun and more importantly, it would assist the sports council the opportunity to replace its ageing ath-

Lagos Island West leads Ibile Games log By Tony Monye EAM Lagos Island West T Local Government have made their intention of winning the ongoing Lagos State Sports Festival, tagged IBILE Games 2014, known with their outstanding performance in most events as the tourney enters day six today. Athletes from Lagos Island West are leading the medal table as at Sunday morning with 87 medals. They have won 43 gold, 18 silver and 26 bronze medals so far, followed by Surulere with 10 gold, 13 silver and 13 bronze, while Team Itire Ikate

LCDA are third with five gold, six silver and 16 bronze. Ibeju Lekki are in the fourth position with four gold, five silver and 10 bronze, while Coker Aguda are fifth with two gold, two silver and six bronze medals. The Junior Category for secondary school athletes is not different as schools within Lagos Island West are leading. The Boys’ Singles Tennis final decided at the weekend at the rowe Park Sports Centre, Yaba, was won by Martins Abamu of P&P Comprehensive College. Abamu beat Stephen Augustine of Lafiaji Junior

Former Lagos State Football Association Chairman, Waidi Akanni (left), Super Eagles former goalkeeper and Remita Corporate Championships Cup Ambassador, Peter Rufai, Head, Corporate Communications, Skye Bank, Rasheed Bolarinwa and MD/CEO, SystemSpecs Limited, sponsors of Remita Corporate Championships Cup, John Tani Obaro at the finals of the tournament played at Campus Square Lagos… yesterday.

School, while Michael Osewa of Brain Point Branded Schools and Michael Ayoola of Ebute Elefun Senior High School won bronze medals respectively. In Girls Singles, Oyinlomo Quadri of Maryanne College won gold, Marylove Edwards of Efuntunde Nursery/Primary School settled for silver medal, while Venus Ubiebi of Unique Breed College and Adebayo Ajibola of Eletu Odibo Senior High School won bronze medals. In the Boys’ Doubles, the duo of Michael Osewa of Brainpoint Branded School and Michael Ayoola of Ebute Elefun Senior High School won gold, while gold medal of the Girls’ Doubles event was won by the duo of Oyinlomo Quadri of Maryanne College and Marylove Edwards of Efuntunde Nursery/Primary School. In Gymnastics, Lagos Island West won the event with eight gold, eight silver and four bronze medals. Itire -Ikate came second with two gold, two silver and four bronze medals, while Coker Aguda came third with one gold, one silver and three bronze medals. Lagos Island West swept the medals in Weightlifting with 27 gold, 15 silver and 12 bronze medals. Meanwhile, boxers who had been busy undergoing medicals and weigh in at the weekend will start their trade today at the Jalisco Sports Centre at Oshodi.

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European Round-up

Man City can win ugly, says, Milner IDFIELDER, James Milner, “With two games left we have M believes Manchester City to make sure with two 90 minhave proved they can grind out results when necessity demands and that could be crucial in the final week of the season. Their superior goal difference means they will not be caught if they take six points from their final two games but Milner admitted they may have to accept winning at any cost rather than rely on blowing away their opponents as they have at the Etihad all season. “That game was very reminiscent of the Newcastle game (their penultimate fixture in 2011-12 which they won 2-0) when we won the title,” said the England international. “We didn’t play well second half but to grind out the result shows that other side to us. “People see the ability in the side and how we move the ball and score goals but you can’t win if you don’t grind it out and fight for every ball. “Joe Hart made at least one ridiculous save - the one on the break (from Steven Naismith) - and has been absolutely outstanding. “We won’t get carried away because we know better than anyone how close can it be (having won the title on goal difference with virtually the last kick of the season in 2012). “People look at our home fixtures and say we’ll definitely win those but we have two tough fixtures and so much can happen; in our experience it went to the wire and it can do that again. “No one is looking too far ahead. Everyone knows how tough it is to win a league title and how much goes into it.

utes left we give absolutely everything and play to our potential.” Having fallen behind to Ross Barkley’s brilliant opener City equalised through Sergio Aguero only for the Argentina striker to be forced off soon after with injury. Edin Dzeko scored either side of the interval before Romelu Lukaku’s header 25 minutes from time set up a nervy finish for Manuel Pellegrini’s side. Dzeko has scored seven in his last nine appearances, which is more than timely considering the difficulties Aguero has had and the dramatic loss of form of Alvaro Negredo who has not scored in the league since January 12. “It is my job to score the goals and I am very happy for that and happy for the team because I think we are playing well to win the games, which is most important,” the Bosnia international told CityTV. “To go 1-0 down we were definitely under pressure. We tried to give everything and I think we did an amazing job. “We knew if we won all our games we would be first and this was the only one away and maybe the toughest one. “We will go into our home games not 100 per cent but 200 per cent. “Everything is like two years ago. I remember when we won the league against QPR everyone was expecting us to win it easily but it was tough until the last minute and I think we learned something from that. “We won’t underestimate the teams.”

Arsenal’s midfielder Mesut Ozil (middle) vies with West Bromwich Albion’s midfielder, James Morrison, during the EPL match between Arsenal and West Brom …yesterday. Arsenal won 1-0. PHOTOS: AFP

Giroud happy with goal against West Brom ATCH-WINNER, Olivier M Giroud was a happy man after firing Arsenal to a 1-0 victory over West Brom that moved his side to within two points of third-placed

Chelsea ahead of the Blues’ clash with Norwich in yesterday’s kick-off. The Gunners, who sealed their spot in next season’s Champions League yesterday

Busquets optimistic Barca will do better next season ARCELONA midfielder, B Sergio Busquets, wants his side to learn from the disappointments of this season to ensure there is no repeat in the future. Barca look set to end the campaign without any major silverware for the first time in six years after being held to a 2-2 home draw by struggling Getafe on Saturday. That result means Barca now need in-form leaders Atletico Madrid to lose one of their next two games against Levante or Malaga if the Catalan giants are to have

any hope of retaining their title when they host Diego Simeone’s pacesetters on the final day. With Atletico having won their last nine games in La Liga while conceding just one goal, that prospect seems unlikely and the Barca players seemed resigned to their fate following the Getafe match. However, Busquets is already looking to next season as Barca attempt to bounce back from a turbulent campaign both on and off the pitch. The Spain international

midfielder told Canal Plus: “The league is all but over for us. We have to learn for the coming years. “We have two games left and we have to try to finish as strong as possible because we play for the best club in the world. “Hopefully next season will be better.” He added of the Getafe game: “We conceded goals that we should not have conceded, the fault lies with the whole team. “In these recent weeks we haven’t been on form, but we pulled through with our

games, the chance of something happening like today was a possibility.” Midfielder, Pedro Rodriguez admitted the players were “really down and devastated” after seeing their title hopes pretty much ended, but is also hoping for a brighter future. “We need to finish the season and then think about next season. I think we have a great squad to be able to carry on doing great things.” • Culled from Sportinglife.com

after nearest challengers Everton lost 2-3 to Manchester City, turned the heat up on Jose Mourinho’s men as they edged out the struggling Baggies in their final home match of the season. Giroud netted what would prove to be the only goal of the game after 14 minutes when he headed in at the near post from Santi Cazorla’s corner. The France international told Sky Sports: “(Santi) Did well and he knows where to put the ball and I tried to win the header and it was nice to see it in the net. “I told them before that I want to be efficient for the last game so I tried to give my best for the team. It’s always a pleasure to score.” The goal was Giroud’s 22nd of the season in all competitions for Arsenal, and he stressed how comfortable

this term has been in his second year at the club. He added: “I think I have improved myself compared to the first season and I know all my team-mates and we have a really good understanding on the pitch. “I take a lot of pleasure on the pitch. I love the Arsenal way to play, I love our game so hopefully we will have some nice days in front of us.” Arsenal’s title challenge faded after the turn of the year when they were unable to overcome the loss of key men like Theo Walcott, Aaron Ramsey, Jack Wilshere and Mesut Ozil to various spells of injury. But they have turned things around in the past couple of months with just two defeats from their last 12 matches in all competitions while setting up an FA Cup final clash with Hull on May 17.

I will listen to any club I’m interested in, De Boer confesses ANAGER Frank de Boer M has told Sky Sports he has no intention of leaving Ajax

Chelsea’s defenders, John Terry (middle) and Ashley Cole (right) slide in to tackle Norwich City’s Swedish defender, Martin Olsson, in the penalty area during the match between Chelsea and Norwich…yesterday.

this summer but will listen to an offer from Tottenham if one comes. The Dutch champions claim they have already had an enquiry from Spurs about De Boer’s availability, but that was refuted by the Premier League club in midweek. De Boer is Sky Bet’s favourite to take over from Tim Sherwood, who replaced Andre Villas-Boas midway through the 2013-14 season, although there are reports in the Sunday newspapers they have switched their attention to Southampton manager, Mauricio Pochettino.

Ajax celebrated their 33rd title on Saturday, finishing the season with a 2-2 draw against NEC Nijmegen, and De Boer talked about the possibility of a new challenge at a press conference afterwards. “I’m not thinking about the future right now,” De Boer told Sky Sports. “I have no intention to leave the club. When Tottenham Hotspur maybe will come, I will talk - not only Tottenham maybe other clubs who I think I am interested in, I will listen. “I am very happy here. On June 23 we start again our preparation. That is what I am thinking about, first I have to get a signal from other clubs

and then I will see.” Former Liverpool midfielder, Christian Poulsen, who captained Ajax on Saturday, thinks De Boer would be a success in England. He said: “For me, he is a winner. Everybody who works with around him would say that. He’s really professional, he has been building things up here the last four years at Ajax. “Every year he puts something on, specialists for the physical and for the mind. He’s a good coach but he is also good at leaving responsibility to others. I have only good things to say.” • Culled from Sportinglife.com

SPORT Monday, May 5, 2014 | 79

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Orlean Invest plans N.825b investment in Nigerian football From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja HE partnership agreement T between the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and

Ayetoro Secondary School battling with Victoria Memoria School at the basketball event of the on-going 2014 Ibile Games.

Nigerians steal show at Rwanda 2014 Airtel/Arsenal Soccer Clinic IGERIA’s contingent to the male participant, held the ful perspectives,” he said as he after, presented a valuable N on-going Airtel/Arsenal class spellbound on Day 2 of pulled the youngster closer. Arsenal memorabilia to the Luke Wilson, Arsenal attacking player who was the Soccer Clinic in Rwanda have the Soccer Clinic when he earned the admiration of the entire Arsenal technical crew, as they have shown that they are not just good footballers on the pitch but also exceptional students of football psychology, history and analysis in the classroom. During the classroom session on Day 1 of the clinic, Joy Falegon, a Nigerian female participant, was the cynosure of all eyes when she emerged the overall best student in a quiz that was based on Arsenal and English Football history. Aside scoring the highest mark in the 30 minutes multiple-choice academic exercise, she also took the lead in providing practical solutions on another exercise that focused on notable quotes from Arsenal legends. Also, Olu Gabriel, a Nigerian

gave an insightful presentation on the physical, psychological and emotional makeup of exceptionally talented players. Immediately after his fiveminute presentation, the class stood in honour of the youngster just as the Arsenal Technical Crew honoured him with a gift. Speaking after his presentation, Rupen Shah, Arsenal UEFA certified coach, commended Gabriel for his brilliance, deep understanding of football psychology, and for the way he embellished his presentations with copious, fitting illustrations. “This is absolutely brilliant. Gabriel has just given an inspiring presentation and we must all continue to applaud him for his insight-

Oyedeji appointed Laureus Ambassador, as Foundation announces two projects APTAIN of the Nigerian national basketball team, D’Tigers and founder of the Olumide Oyedeji Youth Foundation, Olumide Oyedeji, has been appointed Laureus Ambassador, making him the fourth African and the first Nigerian to be so named. Kate Bayliss, on behalf of Edwin Moses, Chairman of the Laureus World, in a letter conveying Oyedeji’s appointment to him, expressed delight to welcome him into the league of Laureus Ambassadors. His appointment, according to her, was informed by his character and his many laudable achievements as the first African basketball player to play in the NBA, European League, World Cup and the Olympics. In his response to the appointment, Oyedeji expressed appreciation to the organization for finding him worthy to be named a Laureus Ambassador. He promised to

work hard to further project the organization’s ideals and make its impact felt across the world particularly in Nigeria. “I consider it a great privilege to be recognized as a Laureus Global Ambassador. I thank the organization for finding me worthy, and also thank my fans, who have kept this support for me all these years. I really appreciate this and I promise to do my best to make its impact felt. Laureus will come to Nigeria, I can assure you, to contribute to the development of sports,” Oyedeji said. Meanwhile, following the consummation of the partnership between the Olumide Oyedeji Youth Foundation and HotSports Nigeria Limited, the foundation has announced two projects it would execute this year. The first is the Olumide Oyedeji Basketball Camp scheduled for summer in three cities namely Lagos, Asaba and Calabar.

Partnership Executive, also showered encomiums on Gabriel, urging him to continue to work hard. He, there-

highest goal scorer in the 2013 edition of the Airtel Rising Stars National Championship in Lagos.

oil giants, Orleans Investment, has started yielding dividends following the decisions of the Onne-based oil servicing company to invest a whopping sum of $5 million (about N825 million) to develop Nigerian football. The chairman of the company, Gabriele Volpi, who made this disclosure when he unveiled his Abuja-based football academy with NFF president, Alhaji Aminu Maigari in attendance, at FIFA Goal Project in Abuja at the weekend, assured that his company is committed to making massive investment in the technical, facilities and other areas of the game in Nigeria. Volpi, who expressed disappointment over the insufficient facilities in the country, assured of his company’s readiness to build adequate facilities as well as train enough coaches to match the millions of talented young footballers in Nigeria. While unveiling the company’s football academy, the chairman also disclosed that the company would in conjunction with the NFF sign the contract with a foreign firm contracted to construct three new technical centers, stressing that doing so was part of its social responsibility in

appreciation of the opportunity it has to operate in Nigeria. “We have signed a technical agreement with the football federation to provide technical and logistic assistant and other exchange programmes to develop the game in the country. “The agreement includes provision of additional two playing pitches around Goal Project, building more residential areas to camp the players including ones from our football academy. “We want to ensure that the young players have quality education while playing the game. We want to also ensure that they become better players in future with the good foundation we will lay for them. “Part of the agreement would be to take the best legs among them to Italy or Croatia where they will start professional football career. We are providing additional money to the football federation for the administrative aspect of the game. In a nutshell, we have agreed to provide money and assistance. “Let me inform you that we have already voted the sum of $5 million to implement the agreement with the football federation. One of our directors based in Abuja, Damir Miskovic, would be in the best position to give details about the agreements.

Two youngsters get scholarships, as players, coaches laud Greensprings/Kanu Football Camp HE players and coaches at T this year’s Greensprings/Kanu Football Camp have commended the organisers for the initiative, just as two participants were awarded scholarships at the end of the clinic. The participants had the time of their lives at the camp

supervised by coaches from Europe, who lauded the ideal behind the camp, while urging the organisers to sustain it. The foreign coaches, drawn from the English Premiership and Dutch League, drilled the kids for one-week in a serene environment enriched with

Aso Club postpones table tennis tourney over Boko Haram From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja ITING the current spate of C bomb attacks and insecurity in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Aso Table Tennis Club (ATTC) yesterday announced it has been forced to postpone indefinitely its yearly table tennis competition until security situation improves in Abuja. The chairman of the club, Dr. Olusegun Zaccheaus Ajuwon, who announced the indefinite postponement at the weekend, lamented that the 11th edition of the competition, which was earlier scheduled to hold from today to May 11 at the indoor hall of the Abuja National Stadium, has been put on hold until there is an assurance of the lives of the participants. The chairman, who disclosed that invitations were extended to tennis associations of all the 36 states and the FCT with over 250 tennis players of different categories being expected, explained that the decision was earlier taken to move the venue of the 11th edition of

the tournament from the Patience Jonathan Centre for Youth Development in Nyanya, where the last edition was held, to the indoor hall of the Abuja National Stadium due to security challenges. He also disclosed that the club sought and got the approval of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF) for the postponement, adding that a new date will also be fixed in agreement with the

state-of-the art facilities provide by the management of Greensprings School at their Lekki campus. David Shepherd, a former Manchester United tactician was full of praise to the organisers, saying such camp should be replicated across Nigeria. “I want to commend the organisers for their efforts to put this camp together. The organisation was superb while the facilities were excellent. I enjoyed every minute I spent in the camp and from what I saw from the participants, it was obvious that Nigeria is endowed with enormous talent in football. I cannot imagine that kids can be so talented like what I saw in the camp. So it will be good if this kind of camp is replicated across Nigeria. I am going back to England with fond memory,” Shepherd said. Speaking on the camp, former handler of Gateway football Club of Ogun State,

Loveday Omoruyi, said: “I am happy that I was part of this year’s camp because I thought I knew how to coach kids, but with what I learnt from the camp my knowledge in coaching has improved. “I am not equipped to handle kids’ training. I want to say that the organisers of this camp should be supported because this is the best Nigeria can offer and since all my coaching career, I have never seen these kind of facilities anywhere in Nigeria even outside the country because everything in the camp was in top form. For us as coaches, we are not better informed on how to tutor young people.” Over 200 kids from public and private schools took part in the camp, with over 100 coaches in the two-day coaching clinic organised in collaboration with the Lagos State Football Association at the Teslim Balogun Stadium.

Executive Director, Greensprings School, Mrs. Lai Koiki (right); Director of Education, Mr. Harry McFaul and the two players awarded scholarships to pursue their education at Greensprings, Murtala Toheeb and Haruna Hadi, during the gala nite for the third Greensprings/Kanu Football Camp in Lagos… at the weekend.

TheGuardian www.ngrguardiannews.com

Monday, May 5, 2014

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

By Toyosi Akerele

“Useless is a wonderful milk-yield, from a cow which kicks the pail over” Hadrat Muinudin Chishti. T has become a recognisable fact that the geographical land mass hitherto known as Nigeria, Ioften described as the giant of Africa, whether towering or lame, is almost not a nation anymore. Or on the other hand so it seems! Ours is now a safe haven for terrorism, a dungeon for unemployed, job seeking Nigerian Youth and a struggling economy. What with a hellish transportation bureau for the abduction and possible trading of our children, especially girls! I have never been President hence I may not possess the locus standi or requisite experience to advise a President on the how-to do this or do that. I may not know what it feels like to sit on, dine in or hand down orders to subjects from, a Rock. However, I sure know what it means to be a beneficiary of effective governance or on the flipside be a recipient of pangs of pain, shame and molestation of my emotions by needless frustration of my fellow citizens. Twenty days ago, news broke up hill and down dale that a sizeable number of Nigerian school girls have been captured and bundled away from their examination centre in Chibok, Maiduguri, in North East where they had gathered from neighbouring schools to write their school certificate examinations we call WASCE. Here is an area in a state of Emergency. This, we know, is not the first of this kind when it comes to the inane kidnapping, killing and maiming of Nigerian people. What is disturbing is the deafening, almost unwritten conspiracy of silence of our governments at various levels and the elite to a sadistic, sinister occurrence as this one. The President’s tendency to vacillate and stay irresolute on matters of national urgency further underscores and lends credence to some assertions by foes that the President is ill-prepared for the responsibilities of this high office. There are undoubtedly close allies who are befuddled by President Jonathan’s inaction and confounded to offer him advice for fear of losing favour and butter and bread. For months now one has wondered what has gone wrong and where things went wrong in Jonathan’s calculations and objectives for a greater Nigeria. One is left personally disappointed. One can’t but ruminate deeply on how our country deteriorated from the sublime to the ridiculous under Jonathan’s watch. How did we get to this point, the President must ask himself. On May 1, Workers’ Day, in Nigeria, various protests were staged across the country by concerned citizens who have had enough of the injustices meted out to Nigerians which has now extended to children of Nigerian heritage. Our stolen dreams are endless. Seun Kuti who was a toddler when his father, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, in his hey-days waxed records to lampoon the leadership of Nigeria, years ago was back on the streets protesting for the same fundamental human rights his father’s music addressed with such clarity of thought. Then came this: The President’s May 1 Workers’ Day Speech which made me sleepless in Lagos and still invokes nightmares. The President’s measure of our poverty indices is by the number of private Jets Nigerians own and by Dangote’s unparalleled affluence as he sits pretty on the Forbes’ List. Assumption is the lowest form of knowledge hence the President may wish to engage with ordinary Nigerians in towns and villages to understand the steep inequality that pervades our entire system. Jonathan forgets that an injury to one is an injury to all and that Nigeria is technically an aristocracy and an oligarchy where our common wealth is mismanaged, exploited and enjoyed by only a few people. One would have expected our President to understand the degree of numbness that the deprivation and lack of a good meal deals to an Individual. The President ought not to forget that he himself had no shoes at all as a child. The President has let us down as a nation and a people. The other day, we all watched in utter dismay, as our President and his cohorts went “tweaking” to sonorous, sumptuous music of different genres only 24 hours after the dastardly act of terrorists left hundreds dead and injured in the Nyanya Bomb Blast. How can a President keep sleeping while his bed is burning? That singular made me conclude that he had joy unspeakable, dancing on the graves

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Bring back our girls and stolen dreams Dear President Jonathan, dare to be presidential

of his own citizens, a people who gave up their nuances, convictions and fixated idiosyncrasies to get him elected as President of Nigeria in 2011. His, aside from the Abiola/Kingibe Election of 1993, was acclaimed probably the freest and fairest elections in the history of Nigeria. With that election, we thought and accepted Jonathan as a “breath of fresh air”. That air now smells foul, very pungently. The Administration is more transfixed than it’s transformational. A lot of activity, but not much movement! As if that macabre dance was not enough insult to Nigerians, the President went ahead to cancel the weekly Federal Executive Council meeting in honour of the Vice President’s younger brother who died in a car crash last week. We may empathise with VP Sambo but

his brother as things stand is in no way more important or deserving of greater honour than the scores of Nigerians massacred almost weekly across communities. How does one justify the fact that Mr. Abba Moro, who whimsically spearheaded the botched, exploitative, criminal immigration recruitment exercise is still harboured in Jonathan’s cabinet as Minister of Interior when by now, he should have been thrown out as an expression of disapproval of his thoughtless manipulation of almost one million unemployed Nigerians? How does one comprehend the President’s directive to shut down all government offices and schools in the Federal Capital Territory, expect those on essential services, from May Wednesday, 7th to Friday, 9th, for the easy flow of traffic within the city to make for active participation at the

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World Economic Forum Africa? This means that the political and business elite who are now the oracles and idols deserve greater security than the generality of Nigerians. How could the President have removed a performing Sports Minister like Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi who won us several laurels and restored the glory of Nigerian Sports? One’s greatest bewilderment stems from the fact that one has yet to see a man or public office holder who has squandered such widespread goodwill as this President. Just when he has gathered adequate momentum to achieve a master-stroke, he ruins it with an inconceivable act that lingers for a long time. His choice of aides is ludicrous. He should purge his Administration save for certain intellectuals who work in strategy war room, document narratives and haven’t lost touch with their constituencies or sold their consciences for a mess of pottage. Others continue to dress up in arrogant ignorance and ridiculous self importance. They discharge their duties so grudgingly one would think plotting Jonathan’s destruction is the highlight of their job description. They run either errands he sent them for which they should advise him otherwise or they just merely carry out their own bidding, doing more damage than good to the Administration’s public image. Their postures are to consistently stay on the defensive lane acting like attack dogs in a military barracks. They know nothing about accountability, decorum and liberty of all men that epitomise a truly burgeoning democracy or it is the President himself who is not a listening leader. Among those to go should be the speech writer! This plentiful carnage, spate of bombings and incessant bloodbath have ushered in pandemonium into our homes and agony in our hearts. Our Land should be green not bloody red. International Press and NGOs are drumming and mobilising support from the four corners of the earth on the missing Chibok children. This has put us in bad light non-stop for years. We cannot afford to flush these Nigeria’s daughters down the drain like $20 billion reportedly missing some months ago. The parents of those missing children are in anguish. Those girls stand the risk of all manner of assault, early marriage, ritual sacrifice etc. Our security as a nation has been compromised. The average Nigerians are not impressed by the President’s cosmetic solutions to our national woes. How can Boko Haram have more fire power than the Nigerian Military? Nigerians are less concerned about whether this is a Northern or Southern Agenda, it doesn’t even matter if it is opposition fanning the embers of terror; we only know that we voted in a President in whom all our collective predominant powers are vested. The much we understand is that the entire State Security apparatus is at the disposal and control of the President. The President should rise and be presidential! A friend of mind posted a poll online asking, “If Shekau, Boko Haram’s leader promises to attack a part of Lagos and President Jonathan assures you otherwise, whom will you believe?”, your guess is as good as mine Sir, everyone on the thread voted that they would believe the terrorist gang leader when we have a sitting President. What happened to the trillions of Naira that has been earmarked and spent on our national security in the last two to three years? I hope the President will also realise, in due course, the urgent imperative of the establishment of State and Community Police. Without State Police, we are winking in the dark. There can never be the executive capacity to police the vast and disparate populace from a central command. Some 234, no 276 teenage girls are missing from Borno State; our Military is whining, patronising statements are being thrown around by ignoble politicians; the world has joined in the search using Facebook posts, Twitter, beer parlour arguments, hashtag, prayers, protests, threats, marches, songs and all what not. The sycophants around the President should let him alone for a bit to have some fresh air. For these sycophants, and for some of our senior government functionaries, Mr. President, Sir, one would like to recommend Harvard- Kennedy School of Government. The school offers an extensive course on Public Administration. • Akerele is founder and Chief Executive Officer of Risenetworks in Lagos and an entrepreneur with interest in youth development. toyosirise@risenetworks.org / @toyosirise on