Thur 15 May 2014 by The Guardian Newspaper

TheGuardian Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

Thursday, May 15, 2014

Vol. 30, No. 12,922

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Army probes alleged mutiny From Njadvara Musa, Maiduguri

HE Nigeria army is to inT vestigate an alleged mutiny where some soldiers were said to have opened fire on the official car of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Ahmadu Mohammed, while he was addressing them at Maimalari Barracks, Maiduguri. Director, Defence Information, Maj.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, said the army is to institute an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding

• Soldiers said to have shot at GOC in Borno • ‘200 insurgents killed by vigilance group’ the conduct of soldiers. Meanwhile, in a major crackdown, a combined team of vigilance youths and members of Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) on Tuesday morning at Rann Village in Kalabalge Local Council of Borno State have killed over 200 suspected Boko Haram insurgents with the arrest of 10 others.

Olukolade added: “The incident occurred when the corpses of four soldiers who died in an ambush while returning from patrol duties in Chibok was being conveyed to the morgue. “There is calm in the cantonment and all normal operations activities are ongoing.” Rann is a border town with

Cameroun, and about 160 kilometres northeast of Maiduguri, the state capital. The incident, according to Banna Modu, a Rann resident, occurred when a gang of suspected terrorists attacked the town and two other villages in Toyota Hilux vehicles, an Amoured Personnel Carrier (APC) and motorcycles laden with ex-

plosives, but were over-powered by the vigilance group and members of CJTF. “The gallantry of both vigilance and civilian JTF have successfully foiled Boko Haram planned attack on our town last night by confronting the suspected insurgents with weapons and charms to blindfold them for over half an hour that

night,” Modu said. He added: “Many of the attackers in this town were killed by our gallant youths, along with the arrest of 10 other insurgents with rifles and other ammunition that could not fire any shot at residents. These boys took the risks of their lives by confronting the insurgents and killed over 200 of them.” The Guardian also learnt yesterday that Rann residents, before the attempted attack, had fortified the town against any attacks by susCONTINUED ON PAGE 2

INTERPOL arrests Abuja bombing suspect, Ogwuche, in Sudan - Page 6

Three Indians bag 15 years jail term for illegal bunkering - Page 9

238 die in Turkish mine fire - Page 9 ‘Chemicals in soap, toothpaste, others cause male infertility’ - Page 33

Rev. Sam Ogedengbe (left); Bishop Theophilus Taiwo Ajose; Pastor Wole Oladiyun; Evangelist Elishama Ideh and Apostle Dele Johnson at the Ikeja Province Apostolic leaders prayer rally for “Bring Back our Girls” at the Governor’s office, Alausa, Ikeja. PHOTO: BISI ALABI WILLIAMS

National conference panel seeks unbundling of INEC From Karls Tsokar, Abuja

PROPOSAL by the IndeA pendent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to be empowered to disqualify candidates aspiring to electoral offices has been unanimously rejected by the National Conference Committee on Political Reforms and Electoral Matters which is recommending removal of the residency clause in the Electoral Act to enable people in the Diaspora who desire to be registered by the electoral body to do so. Also, if the recommenda-

• Committee adamant on splitting AG’s office • Limits commission’s power to disqualify candidates tions of the committee sail through at the plenary, electoral offenders would be banned from contesting elections for 10 years. In another development, the Committee on Public Finance and Revenue at the Conference has insisted on the need to split the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation by creating a separate Office as Accountant-General of the Federal

Government. The committee, chaired by Adamu Aliero, yesterday had in attendance the Accountant-General of the Federation, Jonah Otunla and some state accountants-general to assist them in their efforts to make appropriate recommendations. While most of the members favoured the creation of another accounting office solely for the Federal

Government, which will not interfere with funds from states and local councils, others were of the view that the move would amount to duplication of duties and would be robbing the President of the power to effectively manage the economy. The committee on Political Reforms and Electoral Matters Co-chaired by Iyorchia Ayu while reviewing the proposal submitted to them by

the Chairman of the Commission, Attahiru Jega, said the power to disqualify candidates could not be given to INEC for obvious reasons. “Giving INEC such powers is not even within the purview of our responsibility but it definitely cannot be part of the recommendations this committee would submit. “Considering our political environment, it would be wantonly abused and misused. So, it’s a definite no”, Ayu said, adding however that the committee was in agreement with the electoral body on many issues,

like making the body truly independent and unburdening her for better performance. He said the committee has also recommended a new entity to complement the electoral body with specific responsibility of handling political parties’ administration, monitoring, auditing and electoral offences, thereby limiting INEC to registration of political parties, conduct of election and delimitation of constituencies. With the exception of prosecuting electoral offences, CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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2 | NEWS Thursday, May 15, 2014

Erectile dysfunction may lead to heart attack, others, say experts Most deaths caused by hypertension, diabetes complications By Chukwuma Muanya O you have erectile dysfunction (ED)? Are you finding it hard getting it up? You are likely to have a heart attack soon, medical experts have said. The medical experts yesterday in Ikeja, Lagos, at the first edition of Lagos Country Club (LCC) Health Seminar Series, said ED, the inability to achieve and sustain erection, is usually caused by atherosclerosis, which is predisposed by hypertension and diabetes. Atherosclerosis is the clogging of the blood vessels by fatty deposits that restricts the supply of blood to the organs. The team of medical experts led by the Chairman, LCC Clinic Monitoring Committee, Dr. Babafemi Thomas, also identified hypertension and diabetes as the two major causes of mortality among Lagos elite with average life expectancy put at 63 years. Other members of the medical team put together by the President of the LCC Ikeja, Adewale Osomo, include Consultant Urologist at Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH); Dr. R. W. Ojewola; Consultant Endocrinologist at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Dr. A. O. Dada; and Consultant Cardiologist at LUTH, Dr. Ale Olagoke. Thomas, who is also a former Chairman of the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA) Lagos Chapter said: “We have also taken an average study of the age of passage in Lagos Country Club for example which we found out that in the last five years, over 70 members have died and the average age at death is about 63 years. “Though that is better than the average in Nigeria which is about 50 years, we believe that people in this environment can live longer years. In every society, what happens to the elite will eventually filter down to the more dependent people because if the elite continue to impact their

knowledge to the system, they can actually improve the system.” The theme of the seminar is “Hypertension” with subthemes “Diabetes Mellitus and Erectile Dysfunction.” Corroborating Thomas, Osomo said: “Basically because we are a club, we had situation where our members just die off like that. The mortality rate now or the age is that we are looking at people just in their mid sixties, people who are yet to hit 70s and we are saying no we can do a lot better than this. “There are silent killers - hypertension, diabetes, and other things that are possibly preventive when you know and we said let’s carve something, the issues around diabetes, erectile dysfunction is also an issue that people might not talk about even though it is

prevalent among some people. We just thought let us put something together, let’s start something off and we are happy that we have succeeded in that at least so far.” Thomas, who is also a consultant haematologist at Gbagada General Hospital, Lagos, said: “It will not be wrong to assume that a sizeable amount of these recorded deaths are related to cardiovascular circumstances and, given recent cases of disease processes, including but not limited to hypertension and diabetes mellitus, predisposing cardiovascular events, these deaths are largely preventable. “This is what necessitated the creating of a platform to bring health education closer to Lagos Country Club members via this inaugural health seminar series which we hope can become a yearly or bi annual

Members of the Christian Defense Coalition pray in front of the Embassy of Nigeria in Washington, DC during a prayer vigil yesterday. The vigil was held in support of more than 200 schoolgirls kidnapped by Boko Haram extremists from the remote northeastern town of Chibok in April, sparking a global social medial campaign and international outrage. PHOTO: AFP/Karen Bleier

Confab committee adamant on splitting AG’s office CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Ayu said the submission of INEC to the committee did not indicate that they have a problem with carrying out their responsibilities. Sani Zoro, a delegate on the platform of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) however “strongly endorsed” the Justice Muhammadu Uwais recommendation that “INEC should be reduced to the conduct of free and fair elections”, but other issues should be given to another body formed by the government for the purpose. But other delegates stated that the suggestion of another body would amount to duplicity of functions since there are other bodies with constitutional powers to tackle challenges like electoral offences, which Jega had earlier said were difficult to tackle. The power of the President to appoint the INEC chairman also scaled through as the delegates were divided that the idea of setting up a team to appoint chairman

for the electoral body would make no difference given that the selection committee will be appointed by the President. On the need to have Nigerians in the Diaspora participate in elections, INEC had proposed that the clause in the Electoral Act 2010 as amended which deny nonresident Nigerians from registering or participating in the elections be expunged. While other members of the committee emphasised that the position of INEC is ambiguous and therefore needs to be re-appraised, others were of the view that it would open another window for massive rigging and electoral fraud. To Alani Akinrinade, a Federal Government delegate, the suggestion would give those in the Diaspora a sense of belonging, but there must be a procedure that would be followed before registration. “Wherever they are hoping to register, such a Nigerian must appropriately identify himself to the authorities, their various states of origin and communities as well as

constituencies must be identified.” For Modibo Kawu of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, “the logistics involved in the management of the process is nightmarish and that INEC is still battling with managing the name process within the country alone is challenging. “The population of Nigerians living in the Middle East Asia, other countries in Africa and the rest of the world must be also included in the drive so that it would be comprehensive, so think of the logistics involved in carrying out such an exercise.” he said. Ezinwa Okoroafor of the International Federation of Female Lawyers countered Akinrinade’s suggestion and said Nigerian international passport is obtained anywhere in the world for nothing, so presenting such documents as proof of citizenship would be easy. Therefore, the process would be flawed and ineffective. “But we should propose an amendment where the

clause that one must be resident in Nigeria before registering would be expunged to enable them participate if they are in the country”, she said. The accountant-general had told the committee: “It is not a duplication of the same office because we are operating a federal system which has three tiers of government. “It will create inefficiency in the system. The agitation for the split of the Office of the AccountantGeneral has been on for a very long time, It is more of an emotional issue against the Federal Government as if the Federal Government is rascality in the running and management of the Federation Account which is not so. “The Constitution empowers the President to manage the economy and this power should not be taken away from him by whittling down his powers by creating an office which I consider will be duplication of efforts. “I still strongly support the Office of the AccountantGeneral of the Federation as

it is constituted at present and that it should not be split.” Otunla insisted. But Okon Osung, a delegate from South-South and member of the committee while chatting with journalists, said the AccountantGeneral of the Federation was not able to convince the committee as to the desirability of retaining the office as presently constituted. “The AGF came and appeared before the committee on the very vexed issue of whether they should split the office of the AGF from the office of the AccountantGeneral of the Federation. He made a very robust defence of that office but we are not satisfied because this position about splitting that office has been canvassed over the years by the National Economic Council, by the Governors’ Forum, a professional body like Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and by eminent citizens who had earlier appeared before our committee”, Osung said.

Commanding officer escapes death in alleged mutiny CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 pected insurgents at dawn. “That is why most attacks by the Boko Haram on our town and other villages continue to fail because they cannot

come in here and start shooting and killing people; it is impossible,” explained Modu. The insurgents had repeatedly attempted to attack Kalabalge, an agro-nomad community near the Cameroun border, but failed to gain entry into the village on each attempt. Residents said the villagers had made security arrangement to forestall any attack on the community, which is the headquarters of Kalabalge Local Council. “We have told them (Boko Haram) that they cannot take their attacks to our village because we have taken measures both securitywise and spiritually to prevent them”, said a vigilante member in the community who pleaded anonymity. “They wanted to attack us just the way they did in Bama, Konduga and Damboa, but we got the wind of it and

all of us laid ambush for them; when they neared the village, we opened fire using our dane guns, double barrel rifles and bows-and-arrows. Most of them, who were shocked, took to their heels, but many of them died. Some that were injured have been caught alive and are with the security people as I am talking with you”, said the vigilante member. A top security source, who confirmed the incident to The Guardian on phone, said that it took the vigilante group and CJTF three hours to foil the attempted attack on Rann. The military personnel further disclosed: “The insurgents tried to attack the residents as at 5.00 a.m. (Tuesday) but the vigilante and some members of the village who got the hint of the attack laid ambush and were able to kill as many of them as possible, while

about 10 of them were caught alive; they also recovered two trucks from the insurgents.” Reports from two separate sources at the military barracks yesterday said that after troops went to Chibok Local Council for the rescue of abducted school girls, they were however attacked at the night while returning to Maiduguri. The attack, according to a source, could have been avoided if the GOC allowed the soldiers spend the night in one of the villages on the Maiduguri-Chibok road. “We requested our oga to allow all of us to spend the night in one of the villages, but he refused and ordered us to come back the same day and report to Maiduguri unfailingly,” said the source. Another source also told The Guardian yesterday that the soldiers were returning from an operation in

Kala/Balge Local Council of the state after they were instructed by their superiors to withdraw from the assignment and return to Maiduguri immediately. On their return to Maiduguri, according to him, the soldiers were ambushed where a dozen of them were feared killed. “The corpses of the slain soldiers arrived Maimalari Barracks at a time the GOC wanted to address another troops on the ongoing operation against insurgency, but the soldiers on sighting the corpses of their colleagues, became aggrieved and started shooting sporadically, while others opened fire on the GOC’s official vehicle where he narrowly escaped death”, the source added. The source added that the soldiers were also piqued by the deduction of their allowances and poor working conditions.

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Thursday, May 15, 2014 | 3

News UK, Turkey lament abduction By Olalekan Okusan NITED Kingdom (UK) and Turkey are united in their support to Nigeria over the abductions of over 200 girls in northern part of the country. United Kingdom Foreign Officer for Africa, Mark Simmonds was in Abuja yesterday for high-level meetings to discuss further UK assistance to secure the girls’ release and to deal with the threat posed by Boko Haram. Also, in a statement made available by the Turkish Embassy in Nigeria, Turkey condoled with Nigerians while reaffirming its support to assist in fighting terrorism. Simmonds said: “This is an horrific and heartbreaking situation and the UK wants to do all it can to offer support to the Nigerian efforts to secure the release of the kidnapped girls. We condemn the actions of Boko Haram and all that they stand for. The callous and shocking video of some of the missing schoolgirls will only make it harder for their families to deal with this agonising ordeal. This shows exactly why the UK and others have sent teams to help the Nigerians in their efforts to find them and bring them home. “Continuing murders and abductions of school children, particularly girls in Nigeria by Boko Haram are a stark reminder of the threat faced by women and girls in conflict prone areas. Young children are being denied universal freedoms such as an education.

CAN, Nigerians in Netherlands seek God’s intervention

‘Boko Haram has produced more widows’ group, Advocacy for WidA ows Empowerment Foundation (AWEF) yesterday condemned insurgency and said Boko Haram has produced the highest number of widows in the country. In a statement, the group said: “At AWEF we share the pains of mothers whose daughters are still held in captivity by Boko Haram as we hope and pray that they would be found and returned home safely. In the last three or more years, the activities of the dreaded Boko Haram sect in the northern part of the country has produced more widows than ever imagined. Most of the law enforcement personnel on routine assignments have been killed, while mostly places of worships are destroyed by suicide bombers, causing numerous death tolls, while many women are left as widows. “Also in Plateau state in the central part of the country, the lingering communal clashes coupled with the terror of the Boko Haram sect in the area in the last decade has generated more widows than ever imagined.”

From Emeka Anuforo (In Netherlands) and Chris Irekamba (Irekamba) HE Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has concluded arrangements to hold a one-day national prayer and fasting summit tomorrow (Friday, May 16, 2014) at the Ecumenical Prayer Centre, Abuja from 11am to 2pm. President of CAN, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, hinted that the summit has become necessary in view of the overwhelming insecurity posed by the Boko Haram and the untold hardship it has brought to the land, especially the latest abduction of over 200 Chibok girls. Oritsejafor said the prayer summit is to create a spiritual platform for Christians all over the country to call upon God in unity and faith. “More than ever before, Nigeria needs prayer at this time. Many pressure groups have staged protests to demand for the return of our abducted daughters, but beyond this, we need to pray fervently because as the Bible says, ‘we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers.’ Our prayer is to seek divine intervention for the safe return of our girls and for God to heal our land — Nigeria,.” According to him, the prayer is for all church leaders and the five blocs that constitute the CAN. The states chairmen of CAN have also been directed to hold similar prayer and fasting summit in all the states of the federation. Meanwhile, Nigerians living in The Netherlands have resorted to prayers, soliciting God’s intervention for releasing the school children. They gathered regularly at the Nigerian Embassy in The Hague and offer supplications to God in their numbers. Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to The Netherlands, Mrs. Nimota Nihinlola Akanbi, told The Guardian yesterday that the situation is of great concern to Nigerians living in Netherlands. Akanbi, who spoke when she received officials from Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Joint Venture (SPDC JV) and students of the universities of Lagos and Benin taking part in the Eco- Marathon Europe at the embassy, was very optimistic that Nigeria would soon overcome its security challenges. Her words: “We organize prayers here too. What we have been praying for is that they should release these girls legally and that God should bring peace back to Nigeria. “We have been praying for the unity and peace of the country, because it is a good country and we know that we are going to be the bride of other countries of the world very soon.”

Jonathan

David Cameron, British prime minister

Senate defers debate on extension of emergency rule From Abiodun Fanoro (Lagos), Azimazi Momoh Jimoh (Abuja) HE Senate yesterday deferred debate and consideration of President Goodluck Jonathan’s request for approval of the extension of emergency rule in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states. Adopting a motion moved by the Senate leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba, the Upper Chamber based its decision on the fact that the President’s proclamation for the extension was yet to be circulated. The senate invited the Minister of Defence, Aliu Gusau, all the service chiefs and the Inspector General of Police as well as the National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, to brief the lawmakers today at 10 am on the security situation in the three states. Ndoma-Egba explained that the Senate required key information from the service chiefs to be able to assess the performance of emergency rule in the three North East

Summons Gusau, service chiefs, Dasuki states before debating and approving the President’s request for extension. The motion to approve the extension of emergency rule in the three states had been published in the Senate’s order paper for yesterday, but when called upon to move the motion for extension of the emergency rule by the Deputy President of the Senate, Ike Ekweremadu, who presided over Wednesday’s session, Ndoma - Egba, urged members to allow the item to be stood down till another legislative session. He hinged his reasons on the fact that the proclamation for the extension was yet to be gazetted and the fact that the senate needed to review the success or otherwise of the emergency rule which had been in place since May last year. In a brief comment before he put the question on the motion, Ekweremadu said “this is a very serious busi-

ness which bothers on the security of a part of this country and we need to be well informed of the situation on ground and the efficiency or the effectiveness of the state of emergency in the past 12 months to enable us take a proper decision. “I therefore appeal that in accordance with the motion moved by the senate leader, we should step it down till another legislative day.” Meanwhile, the Coalition Against Corrupt Leaders (CACOL) has kicked against extension of the emergency rule in the three states, arguing that there was no reason to justify it. CACOL, in a statement by its Executive Chairman, Mr. Debo Adeniran, cited the various bombings and killings that took place during the previous emergency rule to support its argument that the exercise had failed and should not be extended. “From all indications, the security that the Federal Gov-

ernment claims it provides has not been working, otherwise all the strikes in the market places, even in the military barracks and the kidnap of hundreds of children in convoy of vehicles that is in the minimum of 12 wouldn’t have been possible.” The group alleged that the extension is just a ploy by government to have unfettered access to the treasury of the affected states to spend their money in the name of emergency rule. “Emergency rule in Adamawa, Borno and Yobe is just a ruse because ordinarily, as the Commander-in – Chief of the Armed Forces, before the emergency rule was pronounced, President Goodluck Jonathan had deployed enough troops in those states and the emergency rule was just to have unfettered access to revenue that should accrue to those states under the pretence that it is being used to provide security for the states,” Adeniran said.

Minister, NSIL differ on foreign assistance to combat insurgency From Uzoma Nzeagwu (Awka) and Kanayo Umeh (Abuja) INISTER of Youth DevelM opment, Mr. Boni Haruna said that Nigeria needs international cooperation to complement Federal Government’s efforts at combating the activities of insurgent in the country. But the Nigerian Society for International Law (NSIL) called for caution, saying “While assistance from foreign countries may help to overcome our immediate problems, it must be stressed that it has its inherent dangers in the long run if not properly handled. Whilst we are deeply saddened by the plight of the concerned girls, their parents and their community now put under siege, we are equally concerned with the image, prestige and

international standing of Nigeria among the comity of nations. “Never before has Nigeria’s image been so shattered and brutalized by suffocating corruption, senseless kidnapping, incessant armed robbery and terrorism. What is particularly disturbing is the failure of the Federal Government to admit and face the reality of the Nigerian situation and formulate strategic plans and programmes to take Nigeria out of the rot.” Meanwhile, some Catholic clerics have expressed fear that Federal Government’s acceptance to recent Boko Harams’ swap deal will amount to promotion of criminality and break down of law and order, particularly in Northern states. Speaking at the just con-

cluded World Conference on Youth held at Colombo, Sri Lanka, the minister praised the support and solidarity displayed by delegates at the conference, adding that the Federal Government appreciates the worldwide condemnation and offer of assistance to help secure the abducted girls. According to a statement, the minister told delegates that Nigeria deserves all the support and assistance it can get at this critical time in its history, given that the country has participated actively in the restoration of peace at different times in several crisis spots in Africa and other parts of the world. He re-assured the delegates that the Federal Government is indeed alive to its responsibilities of protecting the lives and property of its citi-

zens. “I assure this assembly that there is no government that will look the other way when the lives of its citizens are threatened. We have taken the necessary measures to see that these girls are returned safely to their parents,” he said. In a statement,by its President Emeritus Proessor Isaac Oluwole Agbede and Secretary General, Dr. Rufus Olu Olaoluwa, the NSIL said “It is disheartening that in our days, a barbaric group who detested western education should go about with the products of western education to commit criminal and terrorist acts. This group use video, internet, guns, bombs, vehicles, phones, just to mention a few of the gadgets which belong to western civilization which

4 | NEWS Thursday, May 15, 2014

NSCDC parades power station vandals From Lawrence Njoku, Enugu WO suspects, Ifeanyi EmT manuel (27) from Ebonyi State and Okoro Michael Onyebuchi (21) from Enugu State were yesterday paraded by the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for allegedly vandalising Oji River Power Station. The NSCDC Commandant in Enugu, Mr. Nathaniel Ubong, told newsmen that three other suspects were still at large, adding that the suspects were arrested while tampering with installations at the power station, which powered the entire Eastern Region during and after the Nigerian Civil War. However, “Nsofor Obinna from Imo, Kelechi Aneke a.k.a CEDY from Enugu and Henry Chibuoke a.k.a PAPA, also from Enugu, escaped into the bush,” he said. According to him, the suspects were apprehended in the bush by Iyiukwu River in Ugwunzu, Oji River local council, while cutting and dismantling twin cable installation in the station.

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Maku explains delayed assent to 2014 budget From Mohammed Abubakar, Abuja ISTORTIONS in the 2014 appropriation bill, which is currently before the executive, are responsible for the President’s delay in assenting to it, the Federal Government has said. Briefing State House correspondents yesterday, Information Minister, Labaran Maku, explained that it would be inappropriate for government to overlook some serious misrepresentations in the fiscal document because of their possible negative impact on the economy.

Says govt will explore all available options to rescue schoolgirls Maku spoke alongside his counterparts in Works, Mike Onolememen, Water Resources, Sarah Ochekpe, and Women Affairs and Social Development, Zainab Maina, who also addressed the media on the developments in their ministries after the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, presided by President Goodluck Jonathan. Asked whether the Federal Government would negotiate with Boko Haram as demanded by the sect in their

latest video, he said: “We are ready to go to any length to secure the release of these our daughters that have been in captivity. “Everything is being done in relation to every operational measure that will be taken, particularly by the Nigerian Armed Forces, in collaboration with foreign assistance that has been offered by different nations of the world.” The National Assembly had last month passed an appropriation bill of N4.695 trillion

for the 2014 fiscal year and transmitted it to the President for assent. However, it was about N53 billion higher than the N4.642 trillion presented by the Executive last December. According to Maku, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala, yesterday briefed FEC on the level of progress being made in reconciling the discrepancies that have emerged in the budget’s passage by the

Briton to return two Benin artifacts From Alemma-Ozioruva Aliu, Benin City FTER over 100 years of agA itation, Mark Walker, a Briton and grandson of Capt. Philip Walker, a soldier who fought in the 1897 Benin expedition, is set to return to Benin City two bronze works his grandfather carted away. The Enogie of Obazuwa and younger brother to the Oba of Benin, Prince Edun Akenzua, disclosed yesterday that the two bronze works would be returned next month. Akenzua, who also is the Chairman of Great Benin Centenary Committee, said the items would be returned as “gift” to the Oba of Benin, adding that the ceremony would coincide with the birthday of the revered monarch. According to him, Walker “is also bringing with him a replica of the war diary, which his great grand-father kept during the war. This is an interesting development considering that these artifacts are very dear to us in Benin Kingdom. It shows that our efforts have started

President Goodluck Jonathan with Mark Simmons, UK Secretary of State for Africa and Leader of the Special Envoy from UK yesterday at the State House in Abuja.

CBN, Sanusi seek dismissal of Intercontinental Bank’s shareholders’ suit From Lemmy Ughegbe, Abuja N the ground that the suit was statute barred, the O Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and its suspended governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, yesterday prayed the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, to dismiss the action brought against them by some shareholders of the defunct Intercontinental Bank Plc. In separate preliminary objections, Sanusi and CBN contended that the suit was instituted outside the time

limit allowed for challenging acts of public officers. Both also argued that the court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the suit by reason of the provisions of section 53(1) of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act and section 52(1) of the Central Bank Act 2007. They prayed the court to dismiss the suit on the premise that the fraud alleged to have been perpetrated in the sale of the bank was not supported with any shred of evi-

dence. The shareholders, Abdullahi Sani, Adaeze Onwuegbusi and Chijioke Ezeikpe, through their lawyer, Chief Chris Uche (SAN), are demanding the sum of N10 billion as special and general damages against the CBN and Sanusi for breaches culminating in the bank’s wrongful take-over by Access Bank. Joined as 3rd defendant is the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The plaintiffs also want the court to order the CBN to immediately recover the sum of

Confab panel recommends compensation for Bakassi people From Terhemba Daka, Abuja ATIVES of Bakassi Peninsula, who were displaced when Nigeria ceded their ancestral land to Cameroun following the ruling of the International Court of Justice, may be compensated if the recommendation of the National Conference Committee on Environment is approved. The Florence Ita-Giwa-led committee, which concluded its assignment yesterday, recommended that the people should be compensated for the loss of their natural resources and other artifacts found in the area. It further urged the Federal Government to facilitate the

lawmakers. He expressed government’s disappointment that with almost half of the year gone, the budget was still to be passed, but “there are distortions and areas that are very serious and we think there is need to look into them because of the negative impact those distortions may have on the implementation of the budget.” He confirmed that discussions were ongoing between the Ministry of Finance and the National Assembly on the issue, adding: “Shortly, we believe we are going to reconcile those areas and then the final budget will be announced to the nation by the President.” Meanwhile, Onolememen said that work on the Second Niger Bridge was progressing according to specification, contrary to media reports that it had stopped. He assured that it would be completed and handed over as promised by the President during the groundbreaking ceremony in March. He further dispelled insinuations that the work would stall after elections, saying the present administration does not attach politics to infrastructure matters. He also confirmed that the ministry was working hard to restore the bridge linking Gamboru Ngala in Borno State with the Republic of Cameroun. Also, Ochekpe told newsmen that work on the Kashimbilla Dam in Taraba State has reached advanced stage, and that when completed, the project would be of great economic and social benefits to the country, including generating about 40 megawatts of electricity to serve the neighboring Benue, Cross River, Adamawa and host, Taraba.

compensation directly to the affected persons. Fielding questions at the conclusion of the committee’s assignment yesterday, Ita-Giwa said the panel agreed on the need for Nigeria to protect its territorial environment, and the Federal Government to establish environmental courts. “Hitherto, Nigeria had been very careless on the issue,” she noted. “We need to have a law on gas flaring and also an institution that deals with issues like that. Even on the issue of waste, there will be a court to try offenders, whether atomic or industrial waste. “We also emphasised the

right of Nigerians to own and manage their resources. We know that some people might want to make an issue of it. Once you talk about natural resources, Nigerians think it’s all about oil. “Nigerians should have the right to manage their resources, for instance, forestry. These are the areas the committee tried to highlight. You will hear about oil spillage when we present the report during plenary.” She added: “We have addressed the need to compensate the people of Bakassi adequately for loss of their natural resources. Those displaced from Bakassi should be resettled

and fully compensated for the loss of their natural resources and other artifacts. “The compensation includes money, too; that is a vital component of the compensation. We are asking that individuals should be compensated and not the government. Even if it goes to the state government, they must ensure that it gets to the people of Bakassi.” Similarly, the committee recommended that ecological fund be reviewed upward from the current 3 to 5 percent. According to ItaGiwa, “for now, the ecological fund is more or less a political fund.”

N25.1 billion together with the interest still being owed by Mr. Aig-Aigboje Imokhuede, Mr. Herbert Wigwe and Senator Bukola Saraki. Asking the court to dismiss the suit, however, the defendants said they complied with all extant laws governing the scheme. In a supporting affidavit deposed to by one Francess Monago, a counsel in the chambers of Kola Awodein (SAN), they said that while exercising their statutory duties, they examined the bank’s books and found that it was in a grave financial situation occasioned by capital inadequacy, grossly poor liquidity ratio and corporate governance problems. “In order to salvage the bank and protect the interest of the bank’s depositors and creditors, the 1st defendant (Sanusi) made an executive order removing the then managing and executive directors of the bank and appointed new managing and the executive directors to oversee the affairs of the bank,” the affidavit read. When the matter came up yesterday, Uche told the court that he was served with copies of the notices of preliminary objection filed by Sanusi and the CBN before the court sat. He also acknowledged the service of applications for joinder by some

individuals seeking to be made parties in the suit. He then sought time to respond to the pending applications, an application the defendants did not object to. Justice Ahmed Mohammed has adjourned to July 16 for mention and possibly, hearing. At the last hearing, Uche had prayed the court for leave to serve Sanusi through a substituted means on the grounds that his present place of abode after his suspension was not known. Justice Mohammed granted the prayer and ordered that the process be served accordingly. He then adjourned till May 14 for hearing. In their originating summons, the plaintiffs are praying the court to declare that the bank’s take-over by Access Bank on Sanusi’s scheming, direction and instruction without lawful justification is null and void. And, among other prayers, they also want the court to determine whether Sanusi acted right in waiving the N16.2 billion owed by the Managing Director and Deputy Managing Director of Access Bank, Aig-Aigboje Imokhuede and Herbert Wigwe respectively, and the N8.9 billion owed by Saraki, just “to enable Access Bank fraudulently purchase Intercontinental Bank at a ridiculous sum of N50 billion only, when the quarterly profit of the said bank was more than N50 billion.

NEWS Friday, May 15, 2014 | 5

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PDP, UPP laud Delta electoral body over planned council poll From Hendrix Oliomogbe, Asaba HE ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition United Peoples Party (UPP) yesterday in Asaba expressed optimism over the October 25 date for the forthcoming local council polls in Delta State as announced by the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) on Tuesday. The Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mr. Deingha Macauley, hailed the preparation for the election by the commission, saying that the party is still the only party to beat. But the UPP Chairman, Mr. John Freeman, said his party was solidly on ground and effectively seeking the mandate of the electorate to take over government from the PDP. Macauley said that the timetable for the election was in order, adding that his major concern was how the election would be free and fair so that it would not create rivalry between government and the rival party. While commending DSIEC for coming out with a date to conduct the election, he explained that the party has put its house in order with credible candidates contesting just as he claimed the party has zoned the chairmanship of Oshimili South Local Council to Oko area where minorities have been complaining of oppression. The PDP scribe pointed out that the party was ready to win all the seats in the 25 local councils as none of the other political parties can compete with PDP, which he said, had started working before the timetable was released.

Niger gov appoints new commissioners, redeploys others From John Ogiji, Minna IGER State Governor, Dr. N Muazu Babangida Aliyu, yesterday swore-in five new members of the state executive council. Three serving commissioners were relieved of their positions in the shake-up. Those sworn-in are Alhaji Danladi Ndayebo, former Director General, Media and Publicity, now in the Ministry of Information and Strategy as commissioner, Alhaji Abubakar Tukur, former Accountant General of the State who is now the Commissioner for Finance and Alhaji Abbas Munya, a former Special Adviser to the Governor, now the Commissioner for Mining and Solid Minerals Resources. Others are Alhaji Isa Kantigi, previous chairman of Edati Local Council now Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, as well as the Commissioner for Water Resources, Alhaji Abdullahi Maza Kuka. Those dropped from the cabinet are former Commissioner for Sports, Mr. Daniel Clifford Shashere, past Commissioner for Agriculture, Alhaji Ibrahim Ahmed Matane and ex-Commissioner for Mining and Solid Minerals, Alhaji Abubakar Baba Jibrin.

NHIS to target vulnerable group • ‘700,000 Nigerian children suffer from cerebral palsy’ From Kanayo Umeh and Anthony Otaru (Abuja) HE Executive Secretary of the National Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Dr. ‘Femi Thomas, has said that the scheme is working assiduously to address the health challenges of the vulnerable groups in the society, those who do not have the financial

ability to contribute to any pre-payment plans. Just as the founder, Benola Cerebra Palsy Initiative, Air Vice Marshal Femi Gbadebo disclosed in a media chat in Abuja yesterday that not less than 700,000 children in Nigeria are suffering from Cerebral Palsy disease. The NHIS initiative followed

the recent flag-off of the Community Based Social Health Insurance Scheme promoted by the Emoriko Mutual Health Association in Emoriko, Olamaboro Local Council of Kogi State. Dr. Thomas noted that Nigeria has a very huge informal sector, as over 70 per cent of the nation’s population is

caught in this bracket, which according to him, necessitates the recent convening of a presidential summit on universal health coverage in Abuja to develop and implement strategies for ensuring that all Nigerians enjoy access to effective health care, without physical and financial constraints. Thomas said this informs the

Miss Yosola Johnson (second right); her father, Kehinde Johnson (third right) and members of the Johnson family at the Service of Songs for the late Deacon Banke Johnson at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Grace Assembly, Mccarthy Street, near TBS, Lagos…yesterday

Women arraigned over alleged kidnap of Speaker’s kids Sylva’s ex-aide sues police From John Akubo (Lokoja) and Willie Etim (Yenagoa)

IX women have been SChief arraigned before a Lokoja Magistrate’s Court yesterday over their alleged involvement in the kidnap of two children of Kogi State House of Assembly Speaker, Alhaji Momoh-Jimoh Lawal. Lawal’s children have been held captive by kidnappers for four weeks with no clue to their hideout. Meanwhile, Mr. Samuel Ogbuku, former Chief of Staff to erstwhile governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipre Sylva, yesterday sued the Police before the state High Court following his arrest and detention over alleged murder charge. In the motion on notice and application for bail submitted by lead counsel to the applicant, Ajayi Olowo, Ogbuku is

seeking an order of the court for bail pending the determination of the case. Investigations into the kidnap of the Kogi Speaker’s children led to the arrest of the first accused, Mrs. Bilikisu Wahab, whose mobile phone number was used by the kidnappers to demand ransom of N200 million for the release of the children. The women were charged with criminal conspiracy and kidnapping contrary to Section 97 of the Penal Code Law and Sections 3(a) and 7(a) of Kogi State Kidnapping, Thuggery and other Related Offences (Prohibition) Law 2010. The prosecution, led by Senior Legal Officer, Mohammed Abaji with the Kogi State Ministry of Justice, filed an application

for the court to take cognisance of the offences under Section 143(c) and (d) of the Criminal Procedure Code (CPC). Abaji said a gang of four unidentified men, armed with sophisticated weapons, had invaded the residence of the Speaker on April 15 and kidnapped two of his sons, threeyear-old Hafiz Lawal and sixyear-old Ogirima Lawal. The abductors, he said, had forcefully taken the children away in their mother’s car, a dark-blue Toyota Yaris with registration number: Lagos AKD 224 AY. The other accused women are Raliat Musa, Rabiyat Mohammed, Zainab Ismaila, Aminat Ibrahim and Nafisat Abdullahi. Lead counsel to the accused

female kidnappers, Safiya Abdullahi, orally applied for bail of her clients but Abaji prayed the court to take cognisance of the offence as he objected to granting them bail. The Chief Magistrate, Alhassan Hussain, ordered that the accused be remanded in the State Security Service (SSS) detention facility in Lokoja. He adjourned the case to June 4 for further mention. Counsel to the former Bayelsa governor’s aide, Olowo, argued that since Ogbuku has not been charged to court and kept in Police custody for 19 days beyond the space allowed by the Constitution, the applicant is entitled to bail based on special circumstance. He faulted the Police on evidence of proof of the alleged murder attached to the 10page affidavit deposed to by DSP Kekumo Ebiemenor.

determination of the Scheme to scale up community health insurance activities across the country, in tandem with the resolve of the Jonathan administration to boost human capital development, welfare of the people and economic growth of the nation. The NHIS scribe assured that the Scheme will be ready at all times to provide technical and other levels of assistance to all employers, as well as community groups who desire to take advantage of the community health insurance programme of the Scheme. Meanwhile, the Governor of Kogi State, Capt. Idris Wada, has again endorsed the NHIS, describing it as a transformation tool. Air Vice Marshal Gbadebo called on the federal, states and local councils to put in place the necessary infrastructures and enabling laws to assist victims of cerebral palsy, especially in the rural areas. Cerebral palsy is a non-progressive, non-contagious limitation of movement that eventually leads to physical disability in affected persons. It also affects ability to move and keep sufferer’s balance and posture as a result of injury in parts of the brain or due to problems associated with growth in the mother’s womb. Gbadebo revealed that caring for his son, Olaoluwa Gbadebo, who was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy shortly after birth in 1996 gave him knowledge about the ailment.

According to him, “the document exhibited was neither signed nor dated. Every unsigned document is not of value and it is a worthless paper. The signature of Gladys, the state prosecution counsel, does not cover the proof of evidence. Each of the witnesses listed in the proof of evidence must sign.” In his counter motion against the bail application, Counsel to the Police, Francis Ogbukiri, told the court that the bail application should not be granted as the applicant is ordered to present his application for bail before the court for trial as it is a capital offence. Ogbukiri said the Police have charged the case and submitted it before the Chief Judge, Justice Kate Abiri, for assignment to a court for prosecution, “releasing him will be detrimental to the case.”

Govt to partner private sector on disaster control From Joke Falaju, Abuja OUNTRIES across the C African continent are meting in Abuja to brainstorm on effective ways to mitigate the challenges posed by disaster. Secretary to Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, while declaring open the 5th Regional Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, AFRP ‘14, organised by the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISRDR), in collaboration with National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), stressed the need to engage the private sec-

tor in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). Anyim noted that in view of increase in disasters in Africa, it was imperative for all African nations to collaborate in disaster management, urging African countries to pay more attention to disaster issues and challenge delegates to come up ideas to help government in decision making. He noted that in the last few years, disasters have continued to affect the socio-economic growth of Nigeria. The conference holds every two years and reviews successes and progress of nations, in

advancing resilience. The theme for this year’s four-day conference is: “Prevent Risk: Build Resilience”. Governments of membercountries use the platform to make commitments on actions they would take to protect people and economies from natural and man-made disasters. The platform also localises and encourages nations to implement the UN Hyogo Framework of Action - HFA 2005 - 2015 - a 10-year protocol to make communities and nations resilient to natural disasters. According to Anyim: “It is no gain saying that disasters have

increased over the years. Disasters have contributed negatively to our socio-economic growth. The general increase in population has placed more people at risk and due to pressure on livelihood, has made lot of people encroach on flood plains. “It is imperative for the whole Africa to ensure more risks are not created. Africa must all unite to fight their common enemies, which include terrorism, flood and other disasters. We must see ourselves as one and we must develop strategic approach to disaster management and ensure we reduce

future disasters”. He, therefore, tasked the participants to develop a framework in disaster management and ensure they collaborate with the private sector in identifying the disaster risk management. Director General, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Muhammad Sani Sidi, in his welcome address, assured of Federal Government’s commitment to promoting disaster risk reduction through its various initiatives for efficient and effective management in the country.

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6 | NEWS Thursday, May 15, 2014

EKITI 2014

INTERPOL arrests Abuja bombing INEC charges parties on voters’ apathy suspect, Ogwuche in Sudan • Rights group urges IG to probe illegal arms

Stories by Muyiwa Adeyemi Ado-Ekiti

he Independent National T Electoral Commission (INEC) has charged political parties to intensify campaign on voters’ education to correct the apathy being showed by the electorate towards the June 21 Ekiti State governorship election. Meanwhile, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mohammed Abubakar to investigate the source of illegal weapons in the hands of civilians and party members or followers in the state. NHRC in a statement signed by the NHRC’s Southwest Coordinator, Mr. Habib Falua in Ado-Ekiti on Monday said the rallies of some of the political parties in Ekiti have witnessed naked display of weapons by civilians. The NHRC, a coalition of 136 civil right groups drawn from across the country, has been in Ekiti for the past three weeks monitoring the election. The rights group described the situation as dangerous, urging the IG to urgently investigate the arming of young people in the state by notable political figures that claim allegiance to the Federal Government. Falua said: “We have received several reports from the people who are alarmed at the rate of proliferation of arms in rallies organised by political parties linked with the Federal authorities.” NHRC said armed young men recruited by politicians torment the local population with arrogance and contempt for the democratic election, adding that the non-collection of over 250,000 voter cards by locals may not be unconnected with the growing fear of members of the pub-

• To be extradited to Nigeria soon

NE of the suspected Boko Haram member who was the alleged mastermind of the April 14 Nyanya bomb blast, Aminu Sadiq Ogwuche, has been arrested by the International Police (Interpol) in Sudan. Ogwuche, who was one of the two sect members declared wanted by the Department of State Service (DSS), was arrested by a combined team of international agencies after his picture was released by the DSS on Monday. Speaking at the International Briefing Centre yesterday in Abuja, the Coordinator, Mike Omeri, stated that after the suspect was declared wanted in Nigeria, messages were sent

out and Sudan Interpol intercepted and arrested him. He disclosed that the suspect would be extradited to Nigeria soon to face charges. “We wish to authoritatively confirm the interception and subsequent arrest of one of the two wanted men, Aminu Sadiq Ogwuche, who fled to Sudan. Mr. Ogwuche had earlier been declared wanted by authorities in Nigeria for involvement in the bombings of Nyanya. “The effort of Interpol, Nigerian Police and the Department of State Service have led to this arrest. Presently, the security authorities are working to facilitate his extradition to Nigeria,” he stated. Speaking on the possibility

of negotiation with Boko Haram, Omeri stated clearly that he is not aware of any negotiation going on. However, he noted that the Federal Government would harmonise information to avoid contradicting details. While answering questions on the abducted Chibok school girls, the coordinator explained that there is no official figure on the number of girls identified in the video yet, as the Federal Government is still reviewing the footage. He also noted that in order to avoid the kidnap of more students, the government has ordered the closure of schools in the volatile areas while the children were relocated to other safer schools.

Senate seeks speedy trial of suspects for criminal cases From Azimazi Momoh Jimoh, Abuja HE Senate yesterday passed for second reading a bill aimed accelerating the trial of persons charged for criminal cases. Sponsored by Senate Leader, Victor Ndoma-Egba, the bill sought to create an enabling environment for enhancing speedy and efficient administration of criminal justice delivery in Nigeria to drastically reduce the delay in the dispensation of criminal cases across the country. It also seeks to repeal the Criminal Procedure Act Cap C41 of 2004; the Criminal Procedure Act (Northern States) Cap C42, and the administration of Justice Act Cap 43 Laws of the Federation 2004. The Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweremadu, who presided over the session, said the bill no doubt, “has the potential to bring suspects to book within time, and thus, aid the battle against corruption and other social vices.” In a presentation to the Senate yesterday, Ndoma-Egba lamented that Nigerians had lived for decades with a criminal justice system “that is grindingly slow and open to abuses and rendering it most ineffective. He said: “From the police sta-

INEC chairman, Prof. Atahiru Jega lic.” It said the armed gangs move from town to town, dropping names and boasting that the election has been won before the contest. The group said: “This is a dangerous trend. It is worrisome. It may be easy to win an election, but politicians should worry more on how to sustain the peace. The country cannot end the orgy of violence when democratic expressions are suppressed at gun point by officials expected to defend the people.” Speaking with journalists in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday, the INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ek-

iti, Halilu Pai, said the Commission and the political parties must increase their sensitisation programmes to prevent the poll from being marred by low turnout. Pai, who spoke through the Commission’s Public Relations Officer, Taiwo Gbadegesin, declared that the Commission is worried that over 285,794 permanent voter cards are yet to be collected by voters barely a month to the election. The INEC commissioner reiterated that any eligible voter that has reached age 18, but not in possession of the permanent voter cards will be deprived of his/her franchise right during the election.

Hausa community endorses Fayemi for second term HUGE crowd of indigenes plaining that he has identi- that the community believes and party supporters her- fied with the Hausa commu- in his cause and shares in his A alded the campaign train of nity by providing facilities in dream to transform the state. All Progressives Congress candidate and Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi into Ikere-Ekiti where the Hausa community endorsed his candidature, promising to cast their votes for him in the June 21 election. The rally was a huge carnival in which indigenes of the town defied the scorching sun to welcome Fayemi and his entourage amidst singing, dancing, drumming and trumpeting. There were live bands stationed at major junctions in Ikere who thrilled residents many of whom carried placards bearing pro-Fayemi messages, banners with Fayemi’s posters and brooms, the APC party symbol. On sighting the governor, the Hausas chanted various slogans including “Fayemi Tazarce” which means, “Fayemi continue in office”, “Ko duro soke (Stay on top), among others. At Shasha, Hausa traders at the Fagbohun Market led by Alhaji Adamu Imam hailed Fayemi for building a primary school and extension of electricity in the community, ex-

From Kanayo Umeh, Abuja

their community and giving their association a brand new bus, which has become a source of pride to them in their native lands. The community leader described the APC as the party they love so dearly, adding that Fayemi is the only candidate they trust as the governor, and according to them, has lived up to expectation and fulfilled his promises. In his response, Fayemi described the Hausas as important stakeholders and contributors to the Ekiti economy through their payment of taxes and commitment to peace in the state. Fayemi told his hosts that he was in Kano earlier in the week for the APC governors’ meeting, who shared a common dream to make life easier for all Nigerians. He disclosed that the APC governors would be in Ekiti next week and are expected to visit the Hausa community during their stay in the state. The governor thanked the Hausa community in the state for donating a bus and ten motorcycles for his campaign, saying he was touched

Fayemi added: “This election is not about Fayemi alone. It is the pointer to 2015, so we must not joke with it. We must do everything within our power to mobilize our people in the markets, mosques, on the streets and I believe that God is on our side. Residents of Ikere who were impressed with Fayemi’s performance in office said the governor has done enough to merit a second term in office, promising to give him maximum votes to win re-election. The governor also visited residents of Obasanjo Estate at Fagbohun along Ikere-Ado Road where he solicited their votes. The residents assured Fayemi of their support at the governorship poll. Residents of the estate led by Mr. Jide Ogunluyi laid requests for perimeter fencing, pipe-borne water and rehabilitation of the one-kilometer road within the estate. However, the governor advised them to direct the requests to the Office of Chairman, Ikere Local Government Council who he said would execute the projects with dispatch.

tions to the courts and the prisons, the system has delivered everything but justice and the society had been worse for it.” He noted that the bill, for instance, introduces plea-bargain into Nigeria’s criminal justice administration as another effective way of accelerating speedy administration of justice. The Senate leader further explained that though plea-bargain was being employed in courts at the moment to resolve high-profile cases, “it is being applied haphazardly due to the absence of an enabling legislation in the country.” He said: “The bill, therefore, establishes clear guidelines for the implementation of plea bargain and measures to avoid abuse of the process. Ndoma-Egba also said that the bill proposes sentencing guidelines to avoid abuse of judge’s discretion and corruption. He lamented that court cases dragged on to the point that conviction becomes unlikely, as witnesses may no longer be readily available, and where they are available, some facts relating to the case would have been distorted so much that the essence of seeking justice by litigants is

lost. Consequently, he said many aggrieved citizens have shunned the courts because they do not believe their cases could be disposed of in their life-time let alone, get justice. Ndoma-Egba therefore said the proposed bill provides for daily trial from day of arraignment, restriction on number and interval of adjournments, electronic recording of trials, limit adjournment of cases to five times, and not more than 14 days intervals between adjournments. The Senate leader further added that the new law imposes a duty on the police to electronically record or video the making and taking of conventional statements from suspects as a way of halting the practice of torture of suspects in police custody. The proposed law, he added, “provides that it is the duty of the arresting officer to generate full record of arrest with dates and photographs of the person arrested for proper documentation. “ Other senators, who contributed to the debate, admitted that it contains innovative ideas and promises to significantly improve the criminal justice system in Nigeria.

World Bank, AFDB, others okay $638m for water supply in Nigeria From Joke Falaju, Abuja ORLD Bank, African Development Bank (AFDB), French Development Agency (FDA) and Japan International Corporation Agency (JICA) yesterday in Abuja announced the offer of $638 million new financial commitment to boost water supply and sanitation in the country. The Country Directors of each of the donor agencies all announced their financial commitment to boost water supply and sanitation during a workshop to strengthen the implementation of Urban Water Sector Reform in Nigeria. The World Bank Country Director, Marie Francoise MarieNelly disclosed that the bank had provided a support bank financing to the tune of $250

million for water supply in Bauchi, Rivers, Ekiti and Cross River states. Lamenting that reports have shown that women spend an average of four months looking for water, which according to her is not acceptable, she, however stressed the need to increase water coverage in the rural part of the country. The Deputy Country Director, AFDB, Mrs. Babara Barungi also announced that the bank was providing a finance facility of $205 million to boost water supply and sanitation in Port Harcourt, adding that the bank had a total investment in the sector since 1986 to the tune of $760 million. She stressed the need to improve financial management in states where projects are lo-

cated as they usually delay in sending their financial audit, which often hinder the disbursement of fund and slow down the project. The French Development Agency (AFD) Country Director, Hubert Dogin, while stressing the need to bridge the water supply gap disclosed that the bank was considering investing $33 million in the water and sanitation sector. He mentioned that the fund was to support the World Bank investment in provision of water in four states of the federation. The JICA Country Director, Seki Tetsuo stated that the Agency is doing a lot to boost provision of water, adding that it is considering providing a finance window to the tune of $150 million.

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Thursday, May 15, 2014 NEWS | 7

Police chief wants neighborhood watch re-introduced HE Ogun State CommisT sioner of Police, Ikemefuna Okoye has called for re

Cross section of Nigeria Labour Congress, Lagos State Chapter during a peaceful protest to the Lagos State, Ikeja over the abduction of 234 school girls in Chibok, Borno State by Boko Haram on Tuesday.

adoption of individual policing and neighborhood watch amongst others as it were in the past to check rising crimes in Nigeria. Okoye, who attributed the success recorded in the area of security in the past to the concept of espirit- de corps (brotherhood) imbibed by Nigerians leading to the basis for collective struggle said the valuable aspects of the nation’s culture and tradition must be embraced in this contemporary society to achieve the desired security needed. The police boss, according to a statement by the head of media in the Ministry of Community Development and Cooperatives Mr. Ayokunle Ewuoso, was speaking at the occasion of the 2014 Ogun Community Day with the theme, “Security And Community: Emerg-

Court jails three Indians 15 years over oil bunkering From: Abosede Musari Abuja and Willie Etim Yenagoa Federal High Court sitting in Yenegoa, Bayelsa State has convicted three Indian nationals, Sailesh Kumar Singh, (the Captain of the vessel), Chadrashekar Sharma and Ajay Bhatiya, owner of the vessel MT Akshay, (still at large) to 15 years imprisonment for offences that border on oil theft. A statement issued yesterday by the Head, Media and Publicity of the Economic and Fi-

Firm organizes education fair subsidiary of STPL Global, A Bruhas of India is organizing education fair in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt from tomorrow. In a release by assistant Vice President of the company, Dr. Vijay Kumar, the Bruhas is organizing education fairs at Lagos Sheraton, Ikeja on May 16, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island; on May 19, Rockview Hotel, Abuja on May 21 and the Presidential Hotel, Port Harcourt on May 23, 2014. Kumar said the Bruhas is a leading ICT education and consulting company in India with visible West African presence and headquarters in Nigeria. He said, “With her Nigerian experience of more than 15 years, the Bruhas showcases training centres for Information Communication Technology (ICT) skills in Lagos and Abuja. It provides quality counseling to African students for studies in Indian universities, colleges of medicine and technology.” On inquiry, Kumar added that Indian education is affordable, adding that what a Nigerian will pay for one year for a student in Britain or the United States would be enough to pay for a fouryear degree course in India.

Bayelsa monarch’s kidnappers bag 30-year jail term nancial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Wilson Uwujaren, the convicts were among 12 suspected oil thieves, including eight other Indians, one Ghanaian and a Nigerian arrested aboard MT Akshay by men of the Joint Task Force, Central Naval Command, Yenegoa in November, 2012 and handed over to EFCC for further investigation and prosecution. They were arraigned on a two-count charge on January 22, 2013 before Justice Lambo Akanbi. “After diligent prosecution, the court found the first and the two accused persons alongside the owner of the vessel (who is still at large) guilty on count one which borders on conspiracy and convicted them accordingly. “The other accused persons-

Dharmaraj Kumar, Ajay Kumar, Nimesh Kodi Parambil, Ashraf Ali, Sanjeev Kumar, Sarbjot Singh, Arvind Kumar Bhardwaj, Gagan Kumar, Dele Johnson Olayemi and Benneth Egbegi - were discharged and acquitted on the two counts preferred against them by the EFCC. However, the court was silent on the vessel, and it’s content. “Count one of the charges against them reads, “that you Sailesh Kumar Singh, Chadrashekar Sharma, Dharmaraj Kumar, Ajay Kumar, Nimesh Kodi Parambil, Ashraf, Ali, Sanjeev Kumar, Sarbjot Singh, Arvind Kumar Bhaedwaj, Gagan Kumar, Dele Johnson Olayemi and Benneth Egbegi being crew members in MT Akshay with Ajay Bhatiya (now at large)

on or about the 25th day of November, 2012 in Brass, Bayelsa State within the Jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did conspire among yourselves to commit felony to wit dealing in Petroleum Product and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 3(6) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act CAP M17 of the Revised Edition(Laws of the Federation of Nigeria) 2007 and punishable under Section 1(17) of the same Act. Count two reads, “that Sailesh Kumar Singh, Chadrashekar Sharma, Dharmaraj Kumar, Ajay Kumar, Nimesh Kodi Parambil, Ashraf Ali, Sanjeev Kumar, Sarbjot Singh, Arvind Kumar Bhaedwaj, Gagan Kumar, Dele Johnson Olayemi and Benneth Egbegi being crew members in MT Akshay with

Oshiomhole lauds govt over power sector reforms From Anthony Otaru Abuja ESPITE political differences between the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressive Party (APC) in Edo State, Governor Adams Oshiomhole has described the efforts so far made in the power sector by the Federal Government as not only commendable but one which needed more support from all stakeholders. Oshiomhole further stated that the commitment so far exhibited in the various privatization exercise by the Federal Government has further demonstrated that the sector is moving forward. ‘’In the past, even as a unionist and lone ranger, I have always appreciated the fact that the challenge of poverty can only be fought through sustained and concerted efforts in wealth creation for the masses through the provision of adequate infrastructure by encouraging the

private sector to take the lead,’’ Oshiomhole noted. He made the remarks at the end of the signing agreement of the Azura Transaction summit held in Abuja. While expressing gratitude to the initiator of the $500million Azura project in Edo State, Davide Ladipo for his doggedness and foresight, the Governor explained that the new project has been adjudged to be the 1st largest sized Independent Power Provider —IPP in Nigeria stressing that the State government is committed to partner with Azura and indeed all genuine investor by giving appropriate incentives and waivers for their success. In his remarks, Minister of Power, Professor Chinedu Nebo described the Azura project as the most important milestone in the development of the IPPs in Nigeria adding that this has pave the way for others to learn from. Speaking on the Challenge of

inadequate Transmission Infrastructure, the Minister assured that the project will not suffer more so that government will continue to make adequate provisions to wheel-out all energy produced at the plant. ‘’President Jonathan is fully committed to the on-going privatization in the power sector describing the process as a pointer to the country’s new dawn in its development. Commenting on the project, the initiator, David Ladipo explained that a consortium of investors is putting the $500million together. Also speaking at the occasion, Finance Minister, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala assured that the sector was presently enjoying the confidence of the international community while pledging government’s commitment to provide financial comfort in the area of securitization support for the IPPs.

Ajay Bhatiya (now at large) on or about the 25th day of November, 2012 in Brass, Bayelsa State within the Jurisdiction of this court did without authority deal in 157, 822 litres of Crude Oil bunkered from Auntie the Matriarch Julie Rig of Conoil Nigeria Plc into MT Akshay and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 1(17)(a) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act CAP M17 of the Revised Edition (Laws of the Federation of Nigeria) 2007 and punishment under Section 1(17) of

ing Trends And New Strategies,” organized by the Ministry in collaboration with the State Community Development Council, (CDC). He said, “Before the advent of the colonial masters or introduction of western culture, our fore fathers had good and effective ways of policing their communities with little or no expenditure. The chieftaincy structures, religious endowments, individual zeal for policing and neighborhood watch were geared towards protection of lives and property in the society.” “More importantly, the concept of espirit- de- corps was so cherished by every one then, which was a strong basis for their collective struggle to have sound security in the past and I strongly believe that there must be a great link or cross fertilized perception of our local culture and western civilization to have more secured society.” Presenting a paper with the theme “Security and Community: Emerging Trends And New Strategies,” A retired Commissioner of Police and Consultant to the Ogun State governor on Security, Olayinka Balogun said the absence of good governance and subsequent infrastructural development could perpetrate or cause multidimensional insecurity problems. He said government of the day may be held solely responsible for security or insecurity in any given environment adding that corruption, acrimonious politics, inequality and yawning gap between the rich and the poor, general discrimination and human rights violation and abuses amongst others were causes of insecurity.

8 | THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Thursday, May 15, 2014

PHOTONEWS

Chairman, Council Board, Standard Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Abubakar Mustapha (right); Dr. Ifeanyi Okoye of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, and Director General, SON, Joseph Odumodu, during the inspection of SON region office in Enugu by the SON executive.

Former Commissioner for Works and Housing, Femi Okunnu (left); Chairman, Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Sir Sunny Nwosu, and Financial Director, Julius Berger Plc, Wolfgang Kollermann, during the investors relations forum, Organised by Julius Berger in Lagos. PHOTO; OSENI YUSUF

Vice President, Somotex Nigeria Limited, Ajay Singh (left); Chief Executive Officer, Fuel Communications, Tunji Abioye, and Country General Manager, Midea, Aaron Zhang, at the Somotex Dealer’s Conference in Lagos. PHOTO: AYODELE ADENIRAN

Medical Officer, Ojokoro Health Centre, Dr. Abimbola Adekoya (left); Supervisor for Agriculture, Social and Community Development, Ojokoro LCDA, Hamed Tijani, Managing Director, Fouani Nigeria Limited, Mr. Mohammed Fouani, and General Manager, Air Conditioning, LG Electronics West Africa, Mr. Junhwa Jeong, during the presentation of LG Mosquito Air Condition to Ojokoro Health Center.

Chairman, Momas Electricity Meters Manufacturing Company Limited, Kola Balogun (left); Chief Financial Officer, Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company, Aigbe Olotu, and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Abiodun Ajifowobaje, during a courtesy visit by Ikeja Electricity Distribution Company (IKEDC) to MEMMCOL in Mowe, Ogun State.

Brand Manager, Veuve Clicquot, Ann Ogunsulire (left); Editor in Chief, Genevieve Magazine, Betty Irabor, Brand Ambassador, Global Beauty, Eryca Freemantle, and Chief Executive Officer, The Muxeum Ltd, Jenika Mukoro, during a symposium on Women: Inspiration and Enterprise, held at the Intercontinental Hotel, Lagos.

Managing Director/CEO, AA Rescue Nigeria Limited, Otoyen Efebo (left); MD/CEO, Lafarge WAPCO, Joe Hudson, Chairman, Ewekoro Local Council, Dele Soluade, representative of Minister for Transport, Ashekeme Olusegun, at the launch of the Lafarge Drivers’ Academy, held at Lafarge Estate, Arigbajo, Ogun State.

Assistant Category Manager, Oral Care, Uniliver Nigeria Plc, Tolu Dime-Okojie (left); Vice President, Customer Development, Uniliver Plc, Shahzeb Muhamoud, Brand Building Director, Unilever Nigeria Plc, David Okeme, Category Manager, Oral Care, Uniliver Nigeria Plc, Oiza Gyang, and Vice President, Brand Building, Uniliver Nigeria Plc, Robbert DeVreede, during the Close Up Herbal Naija launch in Lagos.

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Thursday, May 15, 2014 | 9

WorldReport 238 die in Turkish mine fire OPES faded of finding more survivors in a coal H mine in western Turkey yesterday, where 238 workers were confirmed killed and 120 more still feared to be trapped in what is likely to prove the nation’s worst ever industrial disaster. Anger over the deadly fire at the mine about 480 km (300 miles) southwest of Istanbul echoed across a country that has seen a decade of rapid economic growth but still suffers from one of the world’s worst workplace safety records. Opponents blamed Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan’s government for ignoring repeated warnings about the safety of the country’s mines. “We as a nation of 77 million are experiencing a very great pain,” Erdogan told a news conference after visiting the site, at which he gave the figures for those confirmed dead and still thought missing. But he appeared to turn defensive when asked whether sufficient precautions had been in place at the mine. “Explosions like this in these mines happen all the time. It’s not like these don’t happen elsewhere in the world,” he said, reeling off a list of global mining accidents since 1862. Fire knocked out power and shut down ventilation shafts

and elevators shortly after 3 pm on Tuesday. After an all-night rescue effort, emergency workers pumped oxygen into the mine to try to keep those trapped alive. Thousands of family members and co-workers gathered outside the town’s hospital searching for information on their loved ones. “We haven’t heard anything

from any of them, not among the injured, not among the list of dead,” said one elderly woman, Sengul, whose two nephews worked in the mine along with the sons of two of her neighbors. “It’s what people do here, risking their lives for two cents ... They say one gallery in the mine has not been reached, but it’s almost been a day,” she said.

Tanzanian witch doctors arrested over albino killing WO witch doctors in Tanzania have been arrestT ed after a woman with albinism was hacked to death, police say. One of her legs and several fingers were removed in the attack on Tuesday. Albinos have suffered widespread persecution in Tanzania, where witch doctors say magic potions made with albino body parts can bring good luck. Such killings have declined in recent years, but this latest attack has prompted a human rights group to call for all witch doctors to be banned. At a press conference yesterday, the group, Under The Same Sun said the current regulation of witch doctors was clearly not working.

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reported that currently all witch doctors have to apply for a certificate from the ministry of health and welfare to practise. The attack occurred in the village of Gasuma, in Simiyu province - a remote rural area in the north-west of the country where there have been killings of albinos before, our reporter says. The woman’s left leg, two fingers from her left hand and a nail from one of her thumbs were removed. According to Under the Same Sun, which campaigns against the discrimination of people living with albinism, the last killing of an albino in Tanzania was in February 2013.

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Our plan is to build infrastructure that can cater for 40m people, says Hamzat Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat is the Honourable Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Lagos State. A humble and a seasoned administrator par excellence, he was, in recognition of his outstanding perforce as a commissioner, awarded the Lagos State Man of the year Award in year 2013. In this interview with The Guardian, Hamzat spoke on what the State Government is doing to tackle the challenges posed by the road network in the state. He spoke to GODFREY OKPUGIE, Deputy Lagos City Editor and TUNDE ALAO. Excerpts: AGOS seems to be struggling to get its infrastructural development right, especially, road. What is the overall target of the state government in this direction? As a State, we are not struggling with our structural plan of infrastructural challenges. We have the master plan that we are implementing. We certainly will not finish all our plans in one calendar year. That is not realistic given the backlog that exists. Lagos State Government believes that infrastructure development is a major plank on which poverty eradication can rest on. Hence, our concentration on major life and City/State changing projects such as Lagos- Badagry Expressway, Isheri-Oshun Jakande road, which is now fully awarded to a Hi-tech Construction Company to complement the bridge works that started some time ago. Also, the blue rail line is another of such projects. The overall target of the State is to develop sufficient infrastructure portfolio across the length and breadth of the State that will ultimately allow for a competitive business environment. In view of the imperative of motor-able road network, vis-à-vis economic development, how will you assess the condition of major roads in the metropolis today? There are many major roads across the State. Some are Federal roads while some belong to the State. The challenge is that it is important that these major roads are fully motor-able before we can move on to fixing a number of the inner roads. In view of this, the State Government has gone ahead to fix a lot of the Federal roads and by so doing we reduce our ability to fix the State road financially. However, the State has constructed a lot of the major roads and others are also currently under construction across the length and breadth of the State. Last year, we started the construction of 156 roads and majority of them are inner roads. It is important to also state that we have to effectively manage a number of the roads we are constructing at a time to prevent gridlock. As a follow up to the above question, what are government’s overall plans for the roads in the suburban and rural areas? As for the roads in rural areas, we use the same approach, that is, rehabilitate as much as we can. But because we also know that we might not be able to do all in a short time, we decided, this year (2014), to grade and give surface dressing to some of the roads as palliative so as to give relief to the road users. Examples are Isuti road, Powerline road in Ifako Ijaiye, Oke Agbo Street in Ojo L.G.A. and so many others. The essence is to allow for motorable roads because it will be a traffic nightmare if we shut down all the roads at a single time for rehabilitation or construction even if the funds are available. There are many roads that are currently being worked on but because of the technical complexities involved in the construction work people cannot see clearly what is being done. In fact, in some areas like Bola Adepegba, a link road to Fagba–Iju–Akute and other areas, what is happening is that the construction works are waiting for the final completion of drainage facility. It does not make sense if a road is provided and there is no functional drainage. In some of the roads, we just poured granites to ease vehicular movement. This is done as palliative measures. It has been said repeatedly the volume of vehicles that ply the roads at the same time and their effects on roads, especially, the articulated vehicles, what are the measures that government is considering to regulate their activities? The axle load on our roads is very high causing our roads to deteriorate faster. Ninety three per cent (93%) of containers coming into Apapa port go through Lagos roads. The oil tankers and other heavy-duty vehicles go through these same roads. They are important to the economy of the State since, as a nation, we don’t have a standard rail infrastructure. The State traffic law regulates the movement of this set of vehicles to certain time of the day. The effect of this, really, is about safety and better quality of life of all of us as road users. You will agree with the assumption that to decongest the metropolis, there is need to develop satellite settlements where road network plays an important role. Is there any plan by the government to tow this line? This is not the NTDA approach, but rather, a deliberate policy whereby government would open up virgin areas with layout, provision of infrastructure such as water, light etc.? Development of Satellite towns is a good strategy. So, as you rightly asked, all such developments come with standard as well as auxiliary roads. Additionally, it is important that we take care of the existing roads that we have now. On a regular basis, the

Hamzat road network in the State is expanding because of new construction going on within the State. What the State is doing is to renew the blighted areas such as Badia and Ajegunle and Sari Iganmu. A typical example is the housing construction at Badia with the entire auxiliary infrastructure that ordinarily will follow such development. Most of the constructed roads deteriorate fast and become deplorable so soon. Is your ministry considering alternative methods to the conventional way of road construction? Some of the biggest threats to the roads are willful damage, conversion of roads to mechanic shops and car wash. Hence, the advocacy that we, as a community, must take ownership of our roads. Concrete is an option; that is why we constructed the road leading to Gbagada hospital in Kosefe Local Government with concrete. The other part of that is that the initial cost is high. I must stress that with the major channelization of our tertiary drains across the State our roads will last longer. As a people, we must also protect our assets. The Mega city status of Lagos is putting more pressure on the existing infrastructure. How do you intend to cope with the demands of the emerging mega city status? This question was partially answered earlier. Our Master plan is to build infrastructure that can cater for forty million people. Hence, we are building IPPs (Independent Power Plants) across the State to take care of our power needs. We are also building roads, bridges and rail infrastructure to facilitate movement across the State to enhance human and commercial activities. The State has also expanded capacity for water transportation and more is still

being done in that regards. I am sure you are aware that the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA) is on top of waste disposal and the capacities on that front are also expanding. I can go on and on. Lagos State is making good progress on all fronts. As a mega city, there are unique challenges such as transportation, refuse disposal and others. Our approach is to face each of these challenges and tackle them one after the other and in a strategic approach. Therefore, for each sector of the economy we have the strategic plan, which we are implementing. As Lagos was the former capital city of Nigeria and currently, the economic nerve-centre of the country, what are you doing to get federal government’s collaboration to get some things right? As stated, Lagos was the capital city and of course the economic hub of the country. It houses the ports both sea and air. As such the country must make sure that Lagos State continues to thrive so as to enhance the survival of our economy. Our prayer is for the Federal Government to take care of her responsibility by fixing the Airport road, Lagos – Abeokuta expressway, Apapa Oshodi road and other such infrastructures. The right thing is for the Federal Government to give up these roads and allow the States to control them but that must come with the resources that will allow the State to carry this responsibility. In essence, the Federal Government must shed weight and focus on such thing as Security, Immigration and border security, generate aviation policies and do them right. Compare Lagos with some states in US, what would be your recommendation so that Lagos can get to the next level? In terms of population, Lagos with 21 Million people compare with the State of New York, U.S with a population estimate of 19.5 Million people. The infrastructure availability in New York is far higher. Now in terms of structure, you will notice that the federating states in the United States are truly independent and can control their destinies. That is not the case in Nigeria. The first thing is for us as a nation to practice true federalism. Lagos will continue to build infrastructure that will give us a competitive advantage to be a knowledge-based economy. Hence it will continue to be a major ingredient for the State development. We are already on the rise; we just need to keep the momentum going. As stated above, knowledge based economy will give us a competitive advantage. We therefore continue to focus on our developmental strategy of PATH where P stands for Power, A for Agriculture, T for Transportation and H for Housing. It is important for us to understand that the State has two components in the Budget, the revenue and expenditure side and both must perform optimally. As a state government we have focused on the capital expenditure, which is why we have been able to achieve the type of infrastructure upliftment we have seen in the State. The revenue and the expenditure components are like the two sides of a coin. Both must perform for the State to deliver the infrastructure need of the State. So the revenue must be fully enhanced and reliable for us as a State to continue to uplift our society. So we as people must pay our taxes. Let me also stress that these taxes don’t just go to roads or drawings alone, it goes to sustaining our hospitals, our schools and so many other social amenities. As such, both the citizens and government have roles to play. In Lagos both sides are doing well but we need to all do more to build a State that our grand children can be proud of. I must also use this opportunity to emphasize the need for us as people to take ownership of infrastructure facilities in the State and understand that we cannot build anywhere without government knowing. The only way for the government to know is to get a physical planning approval. That way we can all have a better life.

CITYSHOT

A towing van causing obstruction on a Lagos road... recently.

PHOTO: AYODELE ADENIRAN

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Thursday, May 15, 2014

Monarch survives kidnap attempt By Tope Templer Olaiya, Assistant Lagos City Editor HE spate of insecurity at Ibeju-Lekki area of Lagos worsened at the weekend when the notorious activities of landgrabbers, popularly known as Ajagungbales sent shivers down the spines of residents in a botched kidnap attempt of the traditional ruler of Oke-Odo Elemoro Land, Epe, Oba Tajudeen Afolabi Elemoro. The dreaded gang registered their usual presence in the early hours of Sunday at the palace of the Onitedo of Itedo, Oke-Odo Elemoro. At about 2am, the armed bandits, who came in a Special Utility Vehicle (SUV) during the heavy rain that fell that night in most parts of Lagos, broke into the palace by pulling down a section of the fence. After gaining access into the expansive compound, they switched off the generating set. This abrupt termination of light alerted those residing within the palace walls, some of whom ventured to come out to check what could be wrong with the generating set. They were immediately confronted by the armed men, who requested that they be taken to where the king was. “I ran and hid myself in the toilet,” Oba Elemoro said when The Guardian visited the palace on Tuesday. From his hiding place, he made frantic calls to some of his chiefs and the police. “The police didn’t pick their calls and by the time the chiefs came, the armed robbers had gone,” the Oba said. The rattled king, who now fears for his life is making a desperate call to the state government to come to their rescue and address the insecurity challenges in the area by stationing an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) in Elemoro and environs. “On countless occasions, I have written to the DPO that nobody is safe in this community and that some policemen should be sent to the palace to protect me. I have not seen any policeman till date. “Since Monday, the chiefs have been my security, as they have been taking turns and shifts to be with me at the palace. The land grabbers have invaded this community and we are helpless. In all my life, I have never heard where an Oba is kidnapped in his palace,” he said. The Guardian obtained a copy of a letter sent by the Commissioner of Police to the Divisional Police Officer, Elemoro, dated

• Cries out over land grabbers’ invasion of Ibeju-Lekki February 23, 2009, which ordered the deployment of twoarmed static guard for Oba Elemoro at the palace. Signed by V.O. Brown, Assistant Commissioner of Police, the letter, which ordered strict compliance, stated that the two-armed guards should not be used as orderlies. A policeman, who pleaded that his name should not be mentioned, said that the instruction from the Commissioner of Police could not be carried out because the Elemoro station is short-staffed and therefore could not afford to release two policemen to be stationed at the palace. At the moment, the unarmed policeman attached to the Oba as orderly was provided by the Ibeju-Lekki local government chairman. According to the Oba, no one is safe as the land grabbers are everywhere. “The police know them and where to get them. This is why we need government intervention and reinforceOba Tajudeen Elemoro ment so this doesn’t grow to become a monster soon. “It’s now over five years since these land grabbers have been operating in our land unchallenged. Residents dare not pass where they are, even our children can’t move freely anymore in the community as these vicious men brandish weapons openly. As a result of this, people are leaving this area en mass,” said the monarch. Another area where the Ibeju-Lekki community is seeking government’s intervention is in the provision of electricity. For two years now, residents have been living in darkness. “I spend N5,000 everyday to fuel my generator in the palace despite giving the Power Holding Company of Nigeria five plots of land for them to build a substation here. “The same applies to the police. The community donated four hectares of land to the Area ‘J’ Command and another four plots for the police station. In fact, we constructed the station for the police and we are yet to see their impact in this community. If there was light, the crime situation would drastically reduce,” Elemowo concluded. The damaged fence.

Lagos begins enforcement of smoking ban August 17

LAGOS ASSEMBLY DIARY

House summons Ipaye, Gbeleyi others By Tope Templer Olaiya • BATN lauds govt action T will no longer be business as over allowances of ex-office holders IState, as usual for smokers in Lagos In support of the initiative, the the state government has

By Wole Oyebade

• To investigate Amuwo Odofin crisis

HE last has not been heard on outT standing allowances Lagos is owing former political office holders in the state, as the House of Assembly has summoned State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ade Ipaye on the matter. Also summoned are Ipaye’s counterparts in the Ministry of Finance, Ayodele Gbeleyi and Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ademorin Kuye to clarify why payment processes have not commenced despite Assembly’s directive. The trio is to appear before the House on Tuesday, May 20, 2014. It would be recalled that the Lagos Assembly had in January 2014 directed that backlog of salary arrears, tenure allowances and severance package of office holders in Local Government/Local Council Development Areas (LGA/LCDAs) of the state be paid. The former office holders are chairmen and councilors that served in various 57 LGA/LCDAs from 19992002, 2004-2007 and 2008-2011. The approval was thought to have put paid to three years of agitations and intervention on the matter, but the ex-officials are still unpaid. Deputy Speaker of the House, Taiwo

Kolawole, at Monday’s plenary said the state officials must visit the House to speak to the issues. In a related development, the House has set up a three-man Ad-hoc Committee to investigate crisis rocking Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area. The crisis is unconnected to a faceoff between the community policing youth vanguard and the Council Chairman, Ayodele Adewale. Adewale, in a petition to the House, had urged the Assembly to investigate the para-military group, allegedly set up by head of Area E Police Command, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Dan Okoro. The chairman informed that activities of the group had assumed a dangerous dimension in the local council, calling on the lawmakers to look into the matter before a total breakdown of law and order. Chief Whip of the House, Razaq Balogun heads the committee, which has Rotimi Abiru and Sultan Adeniji-Adele as members. Report of their findings is expected in the House within a week. Also at the sitting on Tuesday, a bill for a law to amend the Lagos State Mortgage and Property Law 2010 was read for the first time.

made arrangements to enforce law on public smoking from August 17. General Manager, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), Rasheed Shabi, who disclosed this at the one-day sensitization workshop on the law yesterday, said government was not going back on the enforcement of the law. He reiterated that government did not ban smoking in Lagos, but banned smokers from smoking in public places and the workshop was part of efforts to sensitize people in compliance with the law banning smoking in all public places in the state. According to him, with the passage of the law, smokers have been banned from smoking in places, such as hospitals, eateries, hotels, schools, crèche, restaurants, bars, school buses, event centres and bookshops. “You can choose to smoke. The law only says you cannot smoke in public places,” he said, adding that hoteliers, event centres and owners of restaurants were being engaged by LASEPA on the need to designate “smoking areas” which must be well ventilated, for the sake of those who chose to smoke.

British American Tobacco (BAT) Nigeria has lauded the Lagos State government for enacting the Non-Smoking in Public Places law. Head of Regulatory Affairs, BATN, Mr. Sola Dosunmu, in a goodwill message delivered at the sensitisation workshop, stated that BATN supported the law, which seeks to protect public interest of both smokers and non-smokers. “We particularly like the fact that the law is balanced and respects choices,” he stated, noting that the views of all stakeholders who participated in the public hearing prior to the enactment of the law were taken into consideration. He also commended the six-month moratorium given to residents of the state and business owners who may be affected by the new law, which becomes effective on August 17. “This, hopefully, will give them ample time to make the necessary adjustments in full compliance with the law “We are up to the task and if there is need for more staff, we will make request for such. We have been engaging and will continue to engage our trade partners and other intermediaries through trade fora to raise their awareness on the new law.” He clarified the misconception that

the Non-Smoking in Public Places law bans smoking in Lagos State. “It only seeks to regulate smoking in clearly defined public places,” he said, adding that all stakeholders should support the Lagos State government to ensure the success of the law. Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Raji Fashola, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Health, Dr. (Mrs) Yewande Adesina, noted that the law was passed by the state government to protect both smokers and non-smokers in the state. “The state has a responsibility to protect the health of all residents, and would not waiver in carrying out these responsibility.” Dosunmu lauded LASEPA for embarking on the educational and sensitization workshop. This, he noted, would place the agency in good stead to perform its assigned role of enforcing the Non-Smoking in Public Places law efficiently and effectively. BATN is in support of LASEPA, he said, adding that, "We have been engaging and will continue to engage our trade partners and other intermediaries through trade fora to raise their awareness on the new law."

Thursday, May 15, 2014

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Thursday, May 15, 2014

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14 | Thursday, May 15, 2014

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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 Chukwudifu Oputa: Socrates bows out HEN Justice Chukwudifu Oputa gracefully bowed out of the Supreme Court of Nigeria several years ago, the lamentation that followed was as though the eminent jurist bowed out of the world. Lawyers and litigants alike who had cause to appear before him bemoaned his exit from the highest court of the land. To so many of them, his exit was undoubtedly a big blow to the course of justice and the budding culture of judicial activism the highest court of the land was becoming renowned for. If they had their way, for Oputa, they would revise the law that prescribed retirement age for Justices of the Supreme Court. But no one could tinker with the constitutionally prescribed retirement age and so no one could reverse the retirement of Justice Oputa. Thus his retirement had to stay. The palpable gloom which the news of his demise cast on the legal firmament, the world of legal practitioners can, therefore, only be appreciated against this background. Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, who passed on, on Sunday, May 4, 2014 at the age of 96 was a colossus with a reputation for lucid, analytical and thought-provoking judgments that earned him the enviable appellation of “Socrates of the Supreme Court”. Throughout his days on the bench, he made it clear through his rich decisions that law was meaningless unless it served the end of justice. And like Lord Denning of the English bench, he would stop at nothing to ensure that law was used basically as an instrument of social engineering. Even if heaven would fall, as far as Justice Oputa was concerned, justice must surely be done. Not only was he the Socrates of the Supreme Court, he was also the Lord Denning of his time in the way he tamed the law to serve the ends of justice. Legal practitioners are quick to describe the era in which Oputa served as a Justice of the Supreme Court as the court’s golden era and the time unlike no other when it had attitude and character. Although Oputa bowed out of the Supreme Court after a chequered history spanning well over a decade, he remained for a long time available for service to his country. Apart from being a keynote speaker at several judicial and legal fora, he was the Chairman of the Truth and Reconciliation Committee that was charged with the responsibility of healing the wounds of the past; to address the seething injustice which reigned in the days of General Sani Abacha. He was appointed by the civilian regime of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who took over from the military regime of Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar. History would score him as having contributed immensely to making the Supreme Court of Nigeria more than a court of law but also the voice of reason, one that did not only articulate and renew but also nourished and developed the principles of liberty, social welfare, justice and fundamental freedom. Through his erudition and superb knowledge of the law, the Supreme Court breathed fuller, newer and deeper life into the social and national ideals eloquently expressed in the 1979 Constitution. The sound legal jurisprudence which derived from his sound judgment nursed and developed the principles of freedom of speech and of religion, the promotion of security and liberty. It was his judicial style to expatiate at all times on the full implications of these principles and to explain to all, even in his judgment the living and yet mute words of the constitution. His belief as he made it clear in some of his expose was that in a changing society the courts and the procedure adopted by the courts cannot remain static but must be in the interest of the administration of justice such that some of the old and established procedural rules and practices must give way. He espoused the principle that the law would have little relevance if it refuses to address the social issues of the day and that the courts should not only reflect changes in social values but should also induce such changes. His judgment spoke to the past as well as the future and crystallised into a compendium of rich legal jurisprudence from which legal scholars derive fillip. To him, legislators make laws in the abstract but the courts deal with the day to day problems in such a way as to produce justice and in dealing with those problems, Supreme Court Justices should be able to react with creativity and depth. At all times, the attainment of justice was the main preoccupation of Justice Oputa. To achieve this, he never saw the statement of the law, be it in a statute or in a precedent as ever final. Rather, he read such statement within its context and that context, according to him, was not static but “changes with changing economic and social conditions.” It was obvious that Oputa was driven by a certain depth of vision and would never be satisfied with merely maintaining the status quo. In every age, there comes a time when a personality must come forward to meet the needs of the hour. Oputa was one who had an opportunity to make a positive difference in society and he rose to that hour through his robust, thought-provoking and fearless judgments. Born in Oguta, Imo State, he had his early education at Sacred Heart’s School Oguta and Christ the King College, Onitsha before proceeding to Achimota College Ghana where he obtained B.Sc (Hons) Economics in 1945. He returned to Nigeria immediately after this to take up a teaching appointment with the Calabari National College. He proceeded to London where he bagged his LLB degree and was called to the English Bar, Gray’s Inn, London. He was in successful practice until his appointment to the Bench. With the passage of Hon Justice Oputa, Nigeria has lost one of its finest and influential jurists of all times. He would be sorely missed for his eloquence, sound reasoning and rich expression such as the one expressed in the celebrated case of UTC v. Pamotei where he stated that the Supreme Court was final not because it was infallible but that it was infallible because it was final. No doubt, Oputa identified his primary gift, developed the gift, matched the gift with a place of service, which gift provided a platform of influence for him and he eventually flourished because of these gifts. Having lived a good life characterised by unblemished service to humanity, may Oputa reincarnate as a Nigerian.

LETTER

Ekweremadu at 52: The magic of a good name IR:The first name of Ike try. Districts of Enugu State. SPresident Ekweremadu, Deputy It is also on record that he was Permit me also to say that this of the Nigerian the first Deputy Speaker of leader and strength of the peoSenate and Speaker of ECOWAS Parliament means strength, and demonstrates that there is magic in names as exemplified by the quantum of service, strength and comfort he has bequeathed to his people and the Nigerian nation. Born on May 12, 1962 in Mpu, Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, Senator Ekweremadu had a beginning, but was determined to conquer the unpredictable nature of life, as his name suggests. He grew up to become a humble man, kind natured, a teacher and legal practitioner before venturing into politics. Like a leader nurtured in heaven, he clearly stated that his mission in politics was to foster change for his people. His humility, dynamism and service to the nation are evident in the quantum of bills and motions he has sponsored in the Senate. His stabilising role in the Nigerian Senate has severally been attested to by the Senate President, Distinguished Senator David Mark and other colleagues of his. The Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution, which he chaired, remains till date the only successful constitutional amendment carried out in the coun-

ECOWAS Parliament who refused to take over the mantle when then Speaker of the Parliament from the Niger Republic had a political problem. Rather than hustle to occupy the position, Ekweremadu chose to fight for the return of democracy to Niger Republic and supported the Speaker to serve out of his tenure – a feat not common with Africans. Today by the grace of God, he is the Speaker of ECOWAS Parliament and has presented over 19 public lectures and papers within and outside Nigeria, to enrich public discourse on democracy, federalism, security and the Nigerian Constitution, to mention but a few. For Ekweremadu (Ikeoha Ndigbo), leadership is a purpose and the purpose is to accomplish a task and the task is to change his people positively. So it was no surprise that in 1997, as chairman Aninri Local Government Council, he was able to build the local Government Secretariat in Ndeabor. It’s on record that Ekweremadu attracted over 200 kilometres of Asphalt roads to Enugu West Senatorial District, in addition to those he attracted in the other Senatorial

ple did not restrict himself to attracting developmental projects alone, but his humane disposition and concern for the welfare of the poor powered him to rewrite the history of his people in several ways. Finally, one uncommon thing about Ekweremadu is his humility and kindness. This is exemplified in his open door policy. His house is open to everybody and his phone lines are open 24 hours; call him or send him a text message anytime and expect his reply almost immediately. Senator Ekweremadu is a knight of the Order of the Good Shepherd Diocese of Enugu, Anglican Communion and an award winner of the Kwame Nkruma African Leadership Award, just to mention a few. As Ekweremadu Ikeoha Ndigbo, Dike Eji Ejemba turns 52, married to Lady Nwanneka Ekweremadu and blessed with four children, we say Happy Birthday to our leader, philanthropist, bridge builder and beacon of hope for the people, whose character, ability and experience fits the tide of past, present and future history. • Luke Mgboh is Special Assistant (Media) to the Deputy Senate President.

Thursday, May 15, 2014

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Opinion Scope and limits of foreign intervention By John Cardinal Onaiyekan HE tragic drama of the abducted secondary T school girls of Chibok, Borno State at the hands of Boko Haram has shocked the whole world. This has focused very unsavory global media attention on our nation. It has in particular concentrated much publicity on Boko Haram, a publicity which they have always reveled in but which in this case may have gone beyond what they bargained for and which may now boomerang against them. This “unconscionable crime”, to use Mrs Obama’s rather unfamiliar language, has to say the least, cast our government in very bad light. Whether this verdict is deserved or not, the government has to do something visible about the crisis on our hands. And quickly too. This perhaps explains why our government is accepting assistance from various foreign nations, from USA to China, from France to Israel. As a Nigerian, I am saddened and ashamed. But it seems clear that we have reached the stage where we have to swallow our pride and stop bragging and pretending to be what we are not. In itself, there should be nothing wrong with seeking and accepting foreign intervention, especially since it is now clear that the Boko Haram has international connections. It is therefore not only a question of “assisting Nigeria”. It is also in the interest of the international community to join hands with Nigeria to deal with a dangerous virus that is infecting and attacking the entire international community, starting from our nearest

regional neighbours. So far, we have been hearing much about military action. To the extent that the Boko Haram is killing, abducting and bombing, it has to be effectively and appropriately engaged. But there is a limit to how far we can go with military action alone. One only needs to imagine the awful military dilemma of rescuing 200 girls from the hands of heavily armed terrorists and bringing them back to their families, safe and sound. The complexity of the Boko Haram phenomenon therefore calls for coordinated action at different levels and in various areas of attention. The political and socio-economic issues are well within our ability as a nation, if we can only summon the political will to act together across political and ethnic lines to save our nation. But there is also the religious dimension which in my view has not been given adequate attention. This is where I believe we should welcome with deep gratitude the strong messages of solidarity with our nation and vigorous expressions of condemnation of the Boko Haram by the global Islamic community at the highest level. The Islamic Fiqh Academy, based in Saudi Arabia, has declared: “This crime and other crimes committed by the likes of these extremist organizations contradict all humanitarian principles and moral values and violate the provisions of the Quran and Sunnah”. The OIC, now called “The Organization of Islamic Cooperation”, a body well known to us here in Nigeria, has come out not less forcefully in its condemnation, through its “Independent

Human Rights Commission” (IHRC). Their statement issued from its headquarters in Jedda merits a long quotation. “The IHRC is extremely saddened by the misguided claim of the Boko Haram that the abduction of the girls and threat to sell them off as ‘slaves’ is in conformity with the injunctions of Islam. This is not only a violation of international law and human rights law, but also a gross misrepresentation of Islam, which enjoins its adherents to go to any extent in the pursuit of knowledge. The Commission joins the international community in unequivocally condemning the barbaric act … and urges the leadership of Boko Haram to immediately release the abducted girls to enable them join their families and continue with their education.” With such statements at such high Islamic levels, there is no more room for any Muslim or anybody in Nigeria to suggest any kind of alibi, excuses or justification for the “unconscionable crimes” of Boko Haram. I believe such powerful statements are also great encouragement to our many Muslims who have been speaking loudly against the terrorists, at times at great risk. We think of the imams who have been hunted down and murdered by Boko Haram for preaching against their demonic activities. It is a good sign that many Nigerian Muslims have been making similar statements. It is time for all of us to call Boko Haram by its proper name, “mindless bigots, misguided persons masquerading as adherents of Islam” – as General Buhari branded them recently.

One may suggest that these global Islamic organizations could go further than issuing statements of condemnation. They could do more to support the efforts of the Nigerian Muslims to discourage and knock out radicalization and all forms of extremism in the Nigerian Muslim community. Could they also reach out to the foreign supporters and inspirers of our terrorists to leave us in peace? What about facilitating dialogue with Boko Haram? Finally, I believe that we Christians, despite all the hurts that we have suffered, should resist the temptation to turn a deaf ear to what the Muslim world is saying. The Pope and the Archbishop of Canterbury are singing the same song of peace as the Muslim leaders. This is significant. Muslims and Christians in Nigeria must find it in their hearts to pick up the chorus. When the girls are back home, and the Boko Haram are disarmed, (I say “when” not “if”) there will still be the tedious task of dialogue, reconciliation, mutual forgiveness and peace, for which the force of religion will be most needed. This will demand that religious communities join hands and call on the One God who takes care of us all. It is then that it may well be that this horrible episode, as President Jonathan believes, would “be the beginning of the end of terror in Nigeria”. May God bless Nigeria, and bring back home our daughters. • John Cardinal Onaiyekan, Archbishop of Abuja, wrote this as second in the series of his Letter from Rome. The first such letter was published in this column last week.

Time to rethink North’s value system By Tope Templer Olaiya ET’S not beat around the bush. We are dealing with a “L monstrosity. We are dealing with an affliction the likes of which the nation has never encountered,” our respected world citizen and Nobel laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka told CNN’s Christiane Amanpour, last week. “This menace has to be internationalised; every country has to be involved in finding solutions to the problem. It is not a Nigerian problem but the problem of the whole world. From the activities of the group and the response of the government since this madness started, it is clear that this government cannot handle this problem alone,” he said. I completely agree with the professor on this. What I may wish to add is how the North can internalize this problem and come up with homegrown solutions that their leaders, henceforth, can be held accountable to, particularly a rethinking of the North’s value system and its appreciation of education in bridging the wide gulf between the wealthy elite and its general populace. But how did Nigeria get to be brought to her knees, at no other auspicious time than days leading to the World Economic Forum on Africa, which the country hosted last week. In the midst of pondering over this and being inundated with the global #BringBackOurGirls campaigns and protests, I recall how as a youth corps member serving in Baga, Kukawa Local Government Area of the now dreaded Borno State, I was witness to how the seeds of this insurgency were sown and nurtured to what has today rattled world leaders in unison. Dateline was 2007, a significant period in the history of Nigeria. It was an election year and there were desperate attempts to break the jinx in the country’s history of a civilian administration not successfully transmitting power to another civilian administration, but while on national assignment in Borno, the political battle ongoing was the re-election of the incumbent governor. The Batch B National Youth Service Corps members arrived Maiduguri in September 2006 in the mix of a heated political climate and we were sternly warned in camp to keep our heads low and not get caught in the ensuing scramble for power. Months before then, there was an orgy of violence in Maiduguri after a Catholic priest was hacked to death. It was hard to decipher this hot political climate we were warned of. All we could see were beautiful posters of incumbent governor, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), popularly called SAS and his Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) challenger, Kashim Ibrahim-Imam.

After three weeks in orientation camp, I was posted to Baga, a commercial town very close to Lake Chad and popular for its fish market, but more than three hours drive from Maiduguri, to serve as a teacher in Government Day Junior Secondary School. I stayed in the elite part of town, Mile 3, with other corps members posted to Baga at the Federal College of Freshwater Fisheries Technology (FCFFT), a full-fledged tertiary institution sadly with no students. We were assured of safety due to the presence of a Multi National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) comprising soldiers from Nigeria, Niger, Cameroun and Chad not too far from the college. Its operational head at the time was Colonel Adeniyi Oyebade. I immediately settled in to my new environment and interacted with the locals, with a deep appreciation of the essence of the NYSC scheme. It didn’t, however, take too long before some obvious contradictions about what the future holds for my country assaulted my sensibilities. At the heat of the 2007 general elections, the campaigns began to take a threatening dimension, but we were told by the locals to relax and just be at peace with ourselves, but avoid being caught in the ensuing crossfire from the political divides. “Nothing is strange here, it is just that politics is the mainstay industry in the North and elections could appear to consume everyone, but it’s just hot air that would die down,” I recall. It was bizarre to me that an incumbent governor would mobilize thousands of youths following his long convoy in motorbikes to rallies, all brandishing glittering curve-ended swords that look like sickles, and chanting Sai SAS. When the governor came to campaign in Baga, I was bewildered that a quiet community I had stayed in for over six months could turn up thousands of youths, many of whom were too excited to do some theatrics with the long swords – the visible item of identification to show you were for the ruling party. The weapons display was meant to scare political opponents away by dousing any dissenting voice at the rally. The holder simply stretches the sword towards the dissenter’s head and pulls it back to sever the head from the body, as if one is harvesting some fruits. This was a few of the horrors I witnessed. According to our chaperon to the rally, it was important we saw it to be fully prepared for our duty as INEC Ad-hoc staff for the 2007 elections. The day after the rally, I moved around town, I couldn’t find traces of the vicious youths anywhere; not at the schools, markets or motor parks. They had simply returned

with the governor’s convoy. There and then, I could decipher where the ugly future lies for these bands of vicious youths. At the college where I was lucky to be provided a decent accommodation, it was a big institution left to rot. There are only three of such specialised institutions in this country, the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology at Victoria Island, Lagos; Federal College of Freshwater Fisheries Technology at New Bussa, Niger State and the college at Baga. Their locations are strategically placed to the study of fisheries and underwater bodies with the Atlantic Ocean in Lagos, the Kainji Lake dam in Niger, and the Lake Chad basin at Baga. As at 2007, the colleges at Lagos and Niger were operating in full throttle, while Baga was in snooze mode. The reason was pretty obvious, the institution offering certificates in Ordinary National Diploma had almost all facilities for tuition in place, except students. From the Provost (Dr. Femi Daddy at the time) to the academic and administrative staff, all were resident in the college and reporting for duties at their offices, but there were no students to teach. The only academic exercise going on during my 11month stay was the college’s staff primary school. Other things that were strange to me included the tacit approval of educational authorities for examination malpractice. During my stay in Borno, I invigilated examinations for the junior and senior secondary West Africa Examination Council (WAEC) and on these two occasions, we were told the norm was for answers to be prepared and written on the board for students to simply write down. Our job as invigilators then was to ensure students write the answers correctly and legibly. This was complied with and scripts sent to the exam body at Maiduguri. Some weeks after, corps members were engaged to mark the papers. By this time, it wasn’t shocking anymore to receive some august visitors at our Corpers Lodge, who were officials from another local government in Borno. They had visited us to ensure we show some leniency in marking of the WAEC scripts that would later be sent to us from Maiduguri. I couldn’t be more awed considering how I had sweated to get my five credit passes in the same examination nearly a decade earlier. We may pretend to continue to live in denial that some of these misconceptions are real, but they are now staring us in the face and about to tear us apart. So, when a group violently professes that education (Boko) is Haram (forbidden), the northern leaders who have for years allowed this toxic idea to fester should be held responsible. • Olaiya is an editorial staff of The Guardian

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Thursday, May 15, 2014

Opinion Conference: Participation to what end? By Rommy Mom HEN I was informed of my membership W of the National Conference, alias Confab, two thoughts hit me: the constitutionality of the Conference and participation to what end? The constitutionality of the conference has been justifiably questioned. We have elected Parliaments, both at the State and Federal levels constitutionally put together, so what qualifies the National Conference to sit over matters affecting the State. This school of thought posits that the conference is illegal, without constitutional backing and therefore unnecessary. I must say as a lawyer, I found this line of thought very persuasive from the legal point of view. Question however is, is the National Conference all about law and legality? Was it set up to resolve issues from a legal perspective? That Nigeria is a country not defined in terms of values, nationality, nationhood and feelings of one people is not in doubt. The raw truth is that we are a nation only in name, as our loyalty lies either with our various ethnic groups or some other affiliation but hardly with the entity known as Nigeria. There is a need to talk. Nigeria must go back and redefine or renegotiate our values, nationhood, etc. and these cannot be achieved within the confines of the laws. This is probably why Nigerians have always clamoured for a conference, a Sovereign National Conference, that will discuss all that is Nigeria, agree to agree or to disagree, but at least come out with a feeling of being heard, or listened to. A sense of belonging or accommodation as the case may be. This probably informs why the President in his Inaugural Speech to the Conference spoke of decisions based on consensus. The question of legality or legal backing for the Conference therefore, while it makes for a persuasive argument, in my opinion becomes shaky against the exigencies and the needs of the people that these laws were made for. Even at that, a school of thought cites Section 5 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as coating the President with the powers to set up the National Conference. The section is herein reproduced. 5. (1) Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, the executive powers of the Federation:

(a) shall be vested in the President and may subject as aforesaid and to the provisions of any law made by the National Assembly, be exercised by him either directly or through the Vice-President and Ministers of the Government of the Federation or officers in the public service of the Federation; and (b) shall extend to the execution and maintenance of this Constitution, all laws made by the National Assembly and to all matters with respect to which the National Assembly has, for the time being, power to make laws. Scholars have relied heavily on the (b) part of the law to justify the legality of the Conference by making the case that executive powers vested in the President by the Constitution, extend to matters of executing the Constitution, to all matters which the National Assembly, for the time being, has powers to legislate on. The National Conference is cited as one of these. Notwithstanding the merits or demerits of either of these arguments, I am of the opinion that this is a matter that goes to the roots of our feelings of being together as a nation, one that Nigerians have long clamoured for, and to that extent, making it happen for our people is the most important thing, if only to reflect deeply on our “union” as a nation. Granted this is not a Sovereign National Conference, yet it is a conference that is put together to discuss EVERYTHING wrong with Nigeria save for a break up. It is as close to a Sovereign National Conference, as a conference can be. The reason Nigerians have always demanded and prayed for a Sovereign National Conference is essentially to discuss most of the same issues now discussed: devolution of power, resource control, as well as mode and type of governance, in all terms, to be total and acceptable to Nigerians. This issue of term totally acceptable to Nigerians is the reason for the first real heated argument at the conference. The question of voting on recommendations was what percentage of votes would be required for an agreement on issues. While some delegates favoured the global standards of 2/3 as the acceptable percentage in settling an issue, most delegates, including me, were for 75% or 3/4 of total delegates in coming to an agreement on decisions. The thinking of most of us on the issue of

75% stems from the fact that if we are talking consensus, taking everybody along and enhancing the feeling of inclusiveness, then we should step to as near a position as possible of consensus. If we were to settle for 2/3 which the National Assembly uses in resolving issues, then we might as well leave these issues to the National Assembly! Our role is principally to jaw jaw in a unique way to provide the nation with recommendations which most Nigerians would identify with, and not just a small majority of Nigerians. Of course in resolving the above issue, passions were raised and abusive words exchanged, etc. This to my mind merely exhibited the sincerity of purpose delegates came with. You can hardly agree on such sensitive issues without passions being stirred especially if people are sincere in terms of emotions. 70% was eventually settled on. There is also the thinking that the National Conference, will go nowhere in terms of the recommendations coming to fruition and also the unnerving but highly palpable suspicion that it has been put together to actualise a President-Jonathan agenda and nothing else. Again these are all valid concerns. We have seen three past conferences of this nature with their recommendations purportedly chilling in the trash basket. Why should this be any different? So why engage in it when it most probably will yield nothing? First, on the issue of a President Jonathan agenda. If the President truly has an agenda, then he did not go about it smartly. It is extremely difficult to bring together 492 persons for three months, allow them set their rules and discuss everything for this period and imagine you can control the entire chain of events. The delegates at the conference are being closely watched by Nigerians, putting some form of citizen pressure on us; the Press is covering the entire proceedings live, with the dynamics of conversations and alliance building going on, some form of freedom is perceived; and believe me, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan cannot control this body for long, if at all he is controlling it. If his thinking is to control and set an agenda, he might very well have opened up a Pandora’s box, over which he has no control. This conference cannot be guided or controlled. History has shown this to be the case. Ask Obasanjo and his third term project, which he mistakenly threw to the parliament. From

that moment on, he lost control. On the issue of where the conference is going or what will happen to the recommendations, without doubt this is a tricky ground. At the inaugural speech of the conference, the President had expressly opined that a section on Referendum had been inserted into the amended Constitution. This he stated, might be an entry point for the adoption of resolutions or recommendations of the Conference by Nigerians. This is interesting, worthy of applause, yet the feasibility is not very encouraging. Given the rather frosty relationship between the National Conference and the National Assembly, will the National Assembly be minded to allow the issue of a Referendum in the amended constitution see the light of the day? Even if the National parliament successfully inserts a clause on Referendum, can the state Parliaments come to the table to also agree on the same? Even if they all do, what about the issue of time? Remember we have just about nine months to the next elections. The above are the challenges. Yet assuming these challenges are all successfully navigated, how will the resolutions and recommendations of the conference be tabled to Nigerians and by which body? Be that as it may, my conviction and thoughts are that, with so much money being spent on the conference, with the conference being the most representative in the annals of our nation, with citizens pressure and media attention, we may well come away with the most acceptable recommendations to Nigerians and it will be a huge shame to have all these wasted. This is, therefore, appealing that we collectively lobby our Senators, Representatives and Assembly members to insert the clause on referendum in the amended constitution, for the possibility of eventually giving some teeth to the Conference’s resolutions. It is my considered opinion that it is wiser and more probative to engage with and contribute to the Conference. Staying away owing to the assumed eventual failure or whatever other reasons may lead to regret if the conference’s resolutions eventually see the light of the day, and we failed to add some value or quality to it, though the opportunity was presented. • Rom is a member of the delegates in Abuja.

A struggle for Enugu senatorial zone By Chinedu Nnaji HE political permutations for Enugu East Senatorial seat in T 2015 is becoming more interesting with the recent alleged return of the former governor of Enugu State, and one time senator representing Enugu East Senatorial zone, Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) after many years of hibernation in the Peoples Democratic Change (PDC). Nnamani’s reported return to the PDP is similar to that of his Abia State counterpart, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu who attempted a return to PDP sometimes last year, but hit a brick wall, not because he has no constitutional rights to belong to any association of his choice, but apparently because he did not follow laid down procedures as enshrined in the party’s constitution to enjoy that right. It appears that Nnamani and his new found political allies in the state have not learnt anything from Kalu’s inexperience. Perhaps they are not contending with the peace, transformation and unity prevalent in the state since the present government came into office in 2007, which can render their calculation as political hallucinations. Was Nnamani not the founder of PDC in 2010 on which platform he sought re-election to Senate in 2011, but was defeated by Gil Nnaji of PDP? Why is Nnamani abandoning the party he just formed to return to PDP without following due process? Has he forgotten that he is no longer the governor and party leader in the state? Nnamani’s recent political move does not showcase him as a good student of political history. If he believes that he is still relevant and has followings in the state, such can be

proved in his PDC or probably All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2015. His seeming desperation for a return to PDP appears suspicious. But he needs first to convince people of his performance both as a governor and as a senator. Did he for instance ever call for a constituency or stakeholders meeting when he was senator? Did he as a senator carry on as a lord of the manor who owed his constituency nothing, but saw his position in the Senate as due compensation or retirement benefit? What more did he do other than digging six water boreholes all in his native Agbani community? The alliance of Senators Ike Ekweremadu, Gil Nnaji and Nnamani in their unfolding marriage ahead of 2015 is rather unromantic; a conspiracy against the interest of the people, and a self-serving move that will do the state no good. The only thing that probably unites the three senators is their poor representation of their constituencies and their loss of sleep over the adoption of the Chief of Staff to Governor Sullivan Chime, Mrs. Ifeoma Nwobodo by the people of Enugu East senatorial district to represent them in the Senate by 2015. Mrs. Nwobodo, a diligent woman, has been adopted to effectively represent the zone after her successful assignment with Governor Chime. Her adoption by virtually all the stakeholders in Nkanu land did not come to many as a surprise given the plethora of her achievements in both human empowerment and infrastructural developments in the senatorial district. One good thing that cannot be taken away from Nwobodo is her strong grassroots political machinery across the state. The many groups anxious to campaign for her in Enugu east zone is a pointer to her strength in the area. Apart from Senator Isaiah Ani from Isi-Uzo who represented

the then Nsukka zone in the Second Republic, the zone had from 1999 when the senatorial district was carved out in the present democratic dispensation, produced to the same Senate the likes of former Governor of old Anambra State Senator Jim Nwobodo and former President of the Senate, Chief Ken Nnamani and presently Senator Gil Nnaji. It is also remarkable that since 1999, no senator has represented the zone twice in quick successions and 2015 is unlikely to be different. The melodrama currently playing out in Nkanu land is the quest for political leadership of the zone, knowing that the zone will not produce governorship of Enugu State in the next eight years. Who would become the rallying point of the zone in post 2015? There is no doubt that at present, Mrs. Nwobodo fills the vacuum. Having single-handedly dictated the pace of political development in the zone in the last four years, Mrs. Nwobodo has the leverage of winning in the Enugu East Senatorial election in 2015, although some lick their wounds that a woman is in-charge of their affairs. Nnaji is expected to move on without much trouble having conceded the seat through an alleged agreement with two other senators. It, therefore, follows that lawmakers who deliberately decided to become lawbreakers cannot be allowed more chances of impunity. The trio of Nnamani, Ekweremadu and Nnaji should be referred to Imo State to learn from the Achike Udenwa experience of how best to make triumphant entry back to a PDP. The PDP constitution is clear on how a former member can return to the party without necessarily breaking ward party office. • Nnaji wrote from Agbani, Enugu State

Thursday, May 15, 2014 17

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Focus Insecurity: Niger takes proactive measures As insecurity continues to spread across the northern region, the Niger State government is taking some proactive measures to check crime, reports JOHN OGIJI. IGER, the power state, remains one of the most peaceful entities in the north and N has, luckily, not witnessed any form of religious or ethnic crisis, since its creation in 1976, by former Head of State, the late Gen Murtala Mohammed. The only time the peace of Niger was threatened was in 1983, when about a dozen supporters of a political party were ambushed and burnt to death in their party’s vehicle, along Gwada- Kuta road in the Shiroro local council, during a post election crisis between the two rival political parties. However, this peaceful atmosphere hitherto enjoyed by the state is gradually under threat, no thanks to the current political development and the spate of bombings in the country. In Niger, no fewer than three different bomb blasts have so far taken place; all in the Suleja council area, leading to the loss of several lives. The first blast went off at the flag off of a zonal campaign rally of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Suleja, killing over 21 people and critically injuring about a dozen others. Another blast was recorded at the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC’s) premises on the eve of the state and national assembly’s elections, killing no fewer than seven people, including some National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members. Shortly after, another bomb was thrown into the premises of a church in the same Suleja area, but this time, no life was lost. Since then, Niger’s peace has been shaken with one or two cases of crime on a weekly basis. The state also got its own share of the post election crisis that engulfed some parts of the northern states, when churches and properties worth millions of naira were destroyed. The state government immediately set up a committee to, among other things, investigate the immediate causes of the violence and ascertain the extent of damage. But up till the time of filing this report, the committee’s report is yet to be made public. The state has also, in less than one year, recorded three cases of kidnap. The first was the kidnapping of the wife a private school proprietor in Minna; followed by that of a permanent secretary in the state’s Ministry of Agriculture. And while the state was trying to recover the top civil servant, the wife of a staff of Dangote Nigeria Limited was also kidnapped on her way to the market in Suleja. While the police was able to secure the release of the wife of the proprietor and the permanent secretary without paying any ransom, two million naira was paid by the husband of the last victim before her release, after spending 14 days in captivity, although, luck ran out on the kidnappers and they were arrested by the police. The issue of security remains one of the biggest challenges confronting the present administration in Niger state and this is hindering the smooth running of its activities, with all its attention and energy now shifted towards securing lives and properties. Although, the security situation is not peculiar to Niger state alone, recent developments in the state have placed it among the states are under siege. Apart from the sound of bomb frequently heard in Suleja, no fewer than seven policemen have lost their lives at their various duty posts in various locations in the state capital and its environs. As part of measures to check the killing of the policemen, usually carried out by suspected Boko Haram members on motorcycles under the cover of darkness, the state government placed an outright ban on motorcycle operators, popularly known as okada, from January. In addition, every government establishment and residence of prominent government officials are being barricaded with speed breakers at some strategic locations around the city. There is also a 24-hour surveillance by heavily armed security personnel. Many stakeholders and interest groups are

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Abubakar

worried about the security challenges in the state. While some people blamed that the deteriorating security situation on poverty, occasioned by the high rate of unemployment in the country, others attributed it to pure politics at the highest level. Recently, the Niger state governor, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, while receiving the a visiting British embassy official at the government house in Minna, described the spate of bombings in the country as “political and transitional” which according to him, “will soon fizzle out and confined to the history book.” He added that the terrorists’ aim “is to scare people and make them live in perpetual fear.” Within two years, the state government said it dislodged a group of fundamentalists known as Daru Islam, from Mokwa local council area of the state. Although, the action was highly criticized in some quarters, but about six months later, government was vindicated when about five members of the group were found to also be members of the Boko Haram sect. This was immediately followed with the setting up of a committee to regulate the activities of all religious groups in the state, headed by chairmen of all the state’s 25 local councils, with religious leaders as members. However, following the recent crisis between the Fulani herdsmen and farmers in some part of northern states, the state government has also taken some proactive measures. A few weeks ago, it evicted no fewer than 250 Fulani herdsmen from the state under tight security, even though he

affirmed that those behind the killings were not the normal Fulani herdsmen. The evicted herdsmen were said to have migrated from some of the conflict-ridden states and on their arrival in Niger, initially settled with their cattle in Biri village, about 50 kilometres from Kontagora. They were however asked to leave the area because the place is being used by the military for shooting exercises. In their desperate search for a settlement area, the herdsmen decided to relocate with their cattle to Gurusu village in Shiroro local council. But when they go there, residents and indigenes of the community became apprehensive of such a large number of herdsmen and immediately alerted the security agents. Alarmed by this development, the state government did not only order their eviction, but also provided trucks to evacuate them back to Kaduna state, where they came from. But this action did not go down well with the North Central Zonal Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, Mallam Ismaila Rebe, who argued that the herdsmen were harmless and had been forced to relocate to the state after losing their land in Rijana, after it was sold to the public. In order to prevent a possible crisis between farmers and the herdsmen in the state, the governor, who is also the chairman of the northern states governors’ forum, recently convened a meeting with the Miyatti Allah Cattle Breeders Association, (Niger state Branch) at the government house in Minna. At the end of the meeting, the governor set

Speaking with The Guardian shortly after the meeting, the governor enjoined Nigerians not to attribute the killings across the country to only Fulanis, saying that some of the killings were perpetrated by “external forces.” Nigerians, the Governor also insisted, were not looking at the larger picture which, according to him, relate to the conflicts in some parts of African countries like Libya and Mali, “which must have contributed to the high level of insecurity in the country.”

up a 13-member committee, chaired by the secretary to the state government, Mallam Idris Saidu Ndako, to organize what he called “Fulani summit,” where the issues affecting the welfare of Fulanis and the need for a peaceful co-existence with their neighbor will be discussed. Speaking with The Guardian shortly after the meeting, the governor enjoined Nigerians not to attribute the killings across the country to only Fulanis, saying that some of the killings were perpetrated by “external forces.” Nigerians, the Governor also insisted, were not looking at the larger picture which, according to him, relate to the conflicts in some parts of African countries like Libya and Mali, “which must have contributed to the high level of insecurity in the country.” He said: “Shortly after the collapse of the former Libyan President, Mamman Gaddafi, we realized that many of the Fulanis that are said to be fighting people could only speak French and they don’t even speak Hausa or Fulfude. We must find out whether these people are really Fulanis.” He underscored the need to dialogue with the herdsmen with the view to identifying those masquerading as part of them. He said: “We are calling the Fulanis to say, look, let’s find out if there are other people who are coming in the name of our own local Fulani to wreck havoc in the country, because I don’t agree that someone who has been with you for over 50 years will just wake up one day and start attacking and slaughtering you, unless someone, somewhere is organizing it. “We have invited the Fulanis to say, look let us take charge of our areas and by the end of this month, we are going to have a large conference that will have about 500 to 1,000 Fulanis, drawn from across the state to attend, so that we can alert them further on how they can be vigilant and also relate with their community to ensure peaceful co-existence.” Also speaking, Rebe said that the meeting with the governor was an eye opener because his people “are more aware now that there is need to look beyond, because the normal Fulani herdsmen are not responsible for the killings across the country.” He said the association “is ready to work with the government to put an end to the current situation, because crisis has had a serious negative impact on grazing lives of our people.” Worried by the deteriorating security situation in the state, the state government has also embarked on some internal security measures towards reducing rising crimes, with the introduction of local security units in the state’s 25 local council areas. To complement government’s efforts, the Niger state police command has mapped out measures towards bringing the crime rate to it barest minimum. The state’s new Police Commissioner, Desire Nsirim, in an exclusive interview with The Guardian observed that, having assessed all the problems hindering the state police command from effectively controlling crime, “I immediately re-activated some base sets/walkie-talkies so that, at least, we can have some level of communication within the Minna Metropolis, to help us monitor what is happening. “This notwithstanding, the command has written to the state government, requesting for assistance to install a communication network for the entire Area command/division in the state”. As an interim measure, the command has deployed more men to strategic points in the state capital and has directed all Area Commanders to do the same. In the last two months, the command has also stepped up security in all its stations/Area Commands, in view of the Boko Haram threat; increased patrol duties to ensure that the men deployed do not abandon their duty posts, and embarked on in-house training of personnel of the command.

Thursday, May 15, 2014

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TheMetroSection ‘Please, bring my son’s killers to justice’ • Grieving mother of boy murdered in Dubai seeks Federal Govt’s assistance

Briefs Tree planters mark 30th anniversary today REE planters will today T mark its 30th anniversary of tree plantation forestry in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State. It is tagged 'BisiRodipe Plantation Forest Show', and will among other things, discuss the issues of neglect of national forestry and deforestation. Among those expected at the event are Ministry of Environment or Forestry, Departments of Environment and universities, local council chairmen and environmentalists.

Anglican Diocese of Lagos West begins Synod today HE yearly synod of the AnT glican Diocese of Lagos West holds from today to Sun-

The late Oloruntoba Falode By Yetunde Ayobami Ojo

CE sportscaster, Aisha Falode, A mother of the 19-year-old boy, Oluwadamilola Oloruntoba Falode, who was allegedly murdered in Dubai, has appealed to the Federal Government to prevail on Dubai government to reopen the investigation and provide justice over the death of her son. She made this known at a press briefing in Lagos on Tuesday because “there are various inconsistencies in the Police report given to the family.” Oloruntoba, aka Fray, a student of Audio Production at the SAE Institute in the United Arab Emirate was allegedly murdered by Faisal Aldakmary Al-Nasser, a Saudi boy. She alleged that there was a plot by the Dubai Police authorities to cover up the alleged murder of his son, adding that they said he fell from the balcony of his 17th floor (Apartment 1703) in Manchester Towers, Dubai Marina, Dubai, on Saturday February, 15, 2014. Falode said her family lawyer, Festus Keyamo, and a family member, including herself travelled to Dubai to do further investigation on the incident. According to her: “We travelled to Dubai in April and met with some of my son’s friends who were present in the apartment on that fateful day.” She said the summary accounts given by the deceased’s friends were totally different from what the police reported. “They confirmed that there were five other people with him at the time of his death, four boys and one girl, a Nigerian, a French-Cana-

dian national, a South African and a Saudi national. The girl is British.” She continued: “ They reported that close to the time of incident, Toba was on the balcony of his flat with his alleged girlfriend and that Toba was sitting on the rail of his balcony with his feet off the floor and that he was swinging backward and forward.” Police also reported that his girlfriend was still there with him, warning him to be careful. She later went inside the flat and shortly after, they noticed that Toba was no longer sitting on the railings or on the balcony and must have fallen down from the balcony railings. Falode said Oloruntoba’s friends present in the apartment told her that sometimes in December 2013, Faisal stormed Toba’s apartment and ordered Miss Olivia Melanie Richards Evans (his supposed girlfriend) out of Toba’s apartment, accusing her of having an affair with Toba. “ They said that a fight was to have ensued from this confrontation, but for the intervention of other mutual friends. Since then, there was no lost love between Toba and Faisal.” “On the evening of February 14, 2014, Toba, together with his friends went to a club in Dubai

Manchester Tower, Dubai, where he lived... known as M Deck, Media 1Hotel, (my son’s death); because the Media City and met the said Faisal maximum he would do was 25 and Olivia. The argument started years in jail, and that he would concerning Olivia. Shortly after, take care of it.” the two left, Toba and his friends “My findings revealed that Faisal also left.” Aldakmary Al-Nasser’s father is a She further stated that Toba major investor in Dubai and so friends were shocked to find Dubai authorities would do anyFaisal and Olivia outside Toba’s thing to protect the boy because apartment door waiting and of his father’s investments,” she Olivia was crying hysterically and said. appeared frightened while Faisal “I am appealing to my governappeared calm with a determined ment that I have done much more look on his face. than I should do as a grieving “They all went into the apartmother who was left with no opment, shortly after, three of them tion but to start investigating my (Toba, Faisal and Olivia) exited the own son’s murder myself. I imroom and moved to the balcony. plore the Nigerian government to There was serious argument with prevail on the authorities in raised voices and flaying hands by Dubai to re-open the investigation Faisal visible through the glass into the murder of my son Toba door of the balcony.” Falode and bring to book Mr. “After about 20 seconds, Faisal Faisal Aldakmary Al-Nasser and and Olivia came back into the Miss Olivia Melanie Richards room and announced that Toba Evans both of whom murdered had fallen off the railings. Faisal him in cold blood.” had splatters of blood on his T“Justice must prevail not only for shirt, cut on his fingers and blood my dear Toba, but also in honour on his knuckles.” of the memory of all the other “In panic, they rushed to the balyoung lives that have been cut cony and saw that my son was no short brutally. If no one acts, longer there. So, they knew that everyone is at risk of this unfathsomething had happened.” omable pain,” she said. “They went downstairs to see Similarly, President of Women Toba’s dead body lying 12 to 15 meArise, Dr Joe Odumakin, said the tres away from the building.” police report on the incident has “The Saudi boy kept telling them many holes, which raises questhat they shouldn’t worry about it tions that warrant investigations. “We demand your immediate intervention for thorough investigation and due prosecution of the culprit(s) in the matter. We have petitioned President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Chairman, House Committee on Diaspora Affairs Ministry and Nigeria Foreign Affairs Minister.”

Justice must prevail not only for my dear Toba, but also in honour of the memory of all the other young lives that have been cut short brutally. If no one acts, everyone is at risk of this unfathomable pain

day. As the annual meeting of dignitaries, the clergy, laity and delegates from 300 churches in the 14-year-old diocese, the synod will take farreaching decisions on spiritual and temporal matters concerning the church in Nigeria and the prevailing situation in the country. A press release by the Diocesan Communicator, Ordinand Mobolade Omonijo, indicated that the diocesan bishop, the Right Revd. James Olusola Odedeji, will use the synod to further shape his episcopacy built around the three-point agenda- Spiritual Development, Aggressive Evangelism and Youth Empowerment. Opening ceremony is today, presentation of the Presidential Charge by the Bishop on Friday and final deliberations by committees and approval of the communiqué on Saturday. Lagos State governor, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) and his deputy, Adejoke Oorelope-Adefulire, among others are expected at the event.

Gift Onyemaizu for burial Saturday HE funeral rites of Mrs. T Gift Onyemaizu, 41, who died on April 13, begin tomorrow with a Christian wake at the Onyemaizus’ compound, Ochansi Village, Nsukwe Isielu, Ubakala in Umuahia South, Abia State at 6.00p.m. She will be buried on Saturday after a funeral service at 10.00a.m. She was a devout Christian and member of New Jerusalem City Baptist Church, Ejigbo, Lagos. She is survived by her husband, Mr. Johnson Onyemaizu of Zenith Bank Plc, four children, parents and others.

Onyemaizu

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Business CITN rues Nigeria’s stagnating tax revenue •Begins yearly conference next week By Chijioke Nelson HE nation’ sole regulator of taxation profession- the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), has decried the stagnating profile of tax revenue generating capacity of the government. The concern was heightened even as the tax body said that the economy in the past one year has witnessed several fiscal policy initiatives to revamp the system, while businesses and social activities have also experienced notable changes. The institute’s President, Chief Mark Chidolue Dike, who made the observations, however said that it is a common knowledge that one of the most critical impediments to optimizing revenue generation all over the world today is the menace of low tax compliance. He pointed out that the development has had concomitant effects on almost all sectors of the economy, with governments, including Nigeria, strategizing on the practicability of various policy stimulants that could engender voluntary compliance. He however, prescribed that government must actively engage the people with the provision of amenities as a justification of tax collection, which would serve as first remedy to the increasing tax evasion. Dike also pointed out that government must be serious with its contractors and political appointees, among others, who enjoy all the luxuries made available by it, but refuse to pay tax on their earnings from the same government. Meanwhile, CITN said its yearly conference would commence from May 20 to 24, in Akwa Ibom State, with the theme: “Achieving Optimum Tax Compliance: Challenges and Sustainability.” The underlying philosophy for the topic is to properly address the nation’s malfunctioning tax system, which has been fraught with tax evasion, ineffective administration processes and inadequate funding, among others, which jointly lead to low rate of compliance. The CITN boss noted that the rebasing of the economy suggested that the tax revenue to Gross Domestic Product ration has reduced from 22 per cent to 12 per cent, meaning that there is still a lot of work to be done to increase revenue generation to required threshold. “The national tax policy doc-

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CIBN unveils new code of conduct for banking industry By Femi Adekoya OLLOWING the rising Fbanking cases of infractions in the industry, the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has unveiled a new code of conduct for the sector, even as it resolved 1350 petitions/cases within the last 13 years. Indeed, the new code of conduct represents the harmonized version of three

•Awards N12.7b on damages in 13 years codes, namely, the code of ethics and professionalism in the banking and finance industry, code of banking practice and the professional code of conduct. Precisely, the CIBN noted that its ethics and professionalism division saddled with the responsibility of resolving disputes relaying to unethical and unprofes-

sional infractions between banks and their stakeholders resolved 1350 cases between 2001 and 2013 as against 1504 petitions received within the same period. Furthermore, N12.7 billion was awarded for the resolved cases while an outstanding N186.7 billion was yet to be awarded due to the 154 unresolved petitions.

In 2013, the CIBN added that it received 113 cases, out of which 98 cases were resolved and N2.7 billion awarded to petitioners/customers. Presenting the new code of conduct to journalists in Lagos, on Tuesday, the President/Chairman of Council, CIBN, Dr. Segun Aina said the new code emanated as part of efforts and mandate of the institute to further maintain and

ensure compliance of banking institutions to the ethical standards and professionalism as well as guarantee the safety and soundness of the nation’s banking industry. According to him, the code is expected to enhance the highest level of adherence to good banking practices and a strong commitment to high ethical standards in

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Chairman, Investigating Panel of the Sub-Committee of Ethics and Professionalism, Bankers Committee, Adeleke Adedapo (left); 2nd Vice President, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Dr. Segun Ajibola; President/Chairman of Council, CIBN, Dr. Segun Aina; and 1st Vice President, Otunba (Mrs) ‘Debola Osibogun, during the presentation of the new code of conduct in the Nigerian Banking Industry (Professional Code of Ethics & Business Conduct) held in Lagos, on Tuesday.

Govt to partner private investors on new national shipping line By Moses Ebosele INETEEN years after the Federal Government liquidated Nigeria National Shipping Line (NNSL) in controversial circumstances, there are indications that a new national carrier is underway. Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum on Public Private Partnership (PPP) strategy for infrastructure development and modernisation in the maritime sector on Monday in Lagos, the Director-General of Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Patrick Akpobolokemi disclosed that the agency has been directed by President Goodluck Jonathan to commence work on the national carrier. He explained at the forum put together by NIMASA in

collaboration with the Infrastructure Concession Regulation Commission (ICRC) that the proposed national carrier is in addition to the Maritime University project and Dockyard/Shipyard in Okerenkoko, Warri in Delta State. He explained that the Federal Government opted to partner the private sector as part of measures to avoid the pitfalls of the past. Akpobolokemi said: “When the NNSL got liquidated, it was because it was managed by government, so, in the next six months, working with the private sector, we want our shipping line back” He added: “When this comes on board, it solves the challenge of securing seatime for cadets. Right now, we are investing so

much in seatime training. We may just spend little of this money if we train them locally in addition to wealth creation. “Therefore, we are determined by the grace of God that in the next six months, we want to make sure this national carrier comes back.” He also used the opportunity to urge members of Nigerian Shipowners Association (NISA) to constantly mount pressure on NIMASA on the status of the national carrier project, adding that “We can’t afford to disappoint Nigerians.” In his contribution at the event, Director General of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) Alhaji Aminu Dikko said: “This is coming at a time that lack of

adequate infrastructure is seriously limiting the country’s productivity, growth and competitiveness.” The Chairman of the board of Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority, Dr. Chris Asoluka, said that government has finally realized the importance of the private sector in maintaining infrastructure. He said: “It would appear that government has realized that it does not have the monopoly of ideas and resources, and the PPP arrangement is an invitation to the private sector in terms of idea contribution.” Indeed, the liquidation of NNSL in 1995 is believed to have paved the way to foreigners who, presently, allegedly struggle to outwit one another in a bid to consolidate operations in Nigeria and also allegedly

influence how policies in the sector are formulated and executed. But, some observers are of the opinion that the inability of Nigeria to operate a national carrier is as a result of neglect, lack of political will and alleged corruption over the years. Lack of Nigerian-owned vessels plying international waterways was one of the issues that took the centre stage at the presidential retreat on maritime held in 2012. At the end of the one-day deliberations, which had in attendance President Goodluck Jonathan, some members of the economic management team and strategic stakeholders, resolutions were reached and forwarded to the Federal Government for endorsement and ratifications.

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22 BUSINeSS Thursday, May 15, 2014

Indigenous operators to gain from IOCs’ divestments, says Alison-Madueke By Roseline Okere he recent asset divestments by the International T Oil Companies (IOCs) operating in the country have been described as a trend that would provide opportunities for indigenous oil and gas companies in the upstream sub-sector. Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, who made this assertion in a media statement signed by the Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Ohi Alegbe, believed that IOCs divestments would create challenges for indigenous oil and gas operators, which would further boost the country’s crude oil production. There have been apprehensions in some quarters that the recent spate of asset divestments by IOCs operating in the country could create crises in the oil and gas industry. The IOCs have attributed the massive divestments to the content of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which they described as unfavourable to their operations in the country. But at an investment luncheon organized by the Petroleum Technology Association of Nigeria (PeTAN), during the recent Offshore Technology Conference in houston, Texas, the minister explained that with the divestments, indigenous oil and gas companies now have opportunity to acquire the assets being divested as springboard for the development of local capacity. Speaking on “Assets Divestments in the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry:

Opportunities and Challenges”, the minister, who was represented by the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Andrew Yakubu, stated that the divestments by the IOCs were creating opportunities for indigenous oil and gas companies to partake of the upstream sector of the industry and grow capacity. “Let me allay your fears that the spate of divestments would not lead to crisis in the nation’s oil and gas industry, rather the divestment by the majors is changing the onshore corporate landscape and creating material brownfield opportunities for upstream players looking to enter the Nigerian upstream space,” Alison-Madueke noted. She observed that the divesting IOCs were not leaving the country but only shifting their focus from onshore to the more challenging frontiers of deep offshore, which currently accounts for 60 per cent of Nigeria’s production. “The IOCs remain very much present in Nigeria. Shell still retains ownership of 34 onshore blocks while Total, exxonMobil, and Chevron are still committing large amounts of capital to assets offshore Nigeria,” she explained. highlighting the opportunities inherent in the divestment, Alison-Madueke stated: “The indigenous Nigerian companies have been presented with the opportunity to develop local operatorship capacity as well as boost local production and consequently grow into major upstream players”. She cited the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), the upstream subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum

CITN holds yearly conference next week CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 ument adequately provides a direction for the tax system. What government needs to do is to ensure that the document does not

remain a mere article that is rarely referred to. As a matter of concern and urgency, every policy as it relates to Nigerian tax system should flow from it,” he added.

CIBN awards N12.7b on damages in 13 years CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 the banker-customer relationship. he note that the provisions of the code is binding on the industry as all operators and regulators made inputs to its development while approval was obtained from the bankers’ committee. “The institute also requires its members, as a matter of necessity, to recognize the required responsibilities in the conduct of their businesses and to strictly adhere to the code. “The provisions in the code governs the behaviours of both individual and corporate bodies in the banking industry, It also applies to all strata/cadre of employees in the industry whether full time, part time, tempo-

rary, contract of in-sourced. The Registrar/Chief executive of the Institute, Dr. Uju Ogubunka noted that the review of existing codes became necessary to address emerging challenges in the industry.

Corporation (NNPC), as an example of indigenous Nigerian company that has tapped into the opportunity provided by the divestment to transform from a small time player with a produc-

tion of 60,000 barrels per day (bpd) in 2007 to a mid-size player with a current production of over 140,000 bpd through the assignment of 55 per cent equity in 8 divested blocks.

She disclosed that NPDC has grown to become the biggest producer and supplier of gas to the domestic market through its aggressive development of the assets assigned to it from the divestment

Acting Managing Director, Bank of Industry, Waheed Olagunju and Turkish Ambassador, Mustafa Pulat at the Bank’s corporate office in Abuja, on Tuesday. PHOTO: Philip Ojisua

Panacea to Africa’s devt challenges, by Skye Bank chief By Chijioke Nelson he Group Managing T Director/Chief executive Officer-designate of Skye Bank Plc, Timothy Oguntayo, said Africa’s sustainable economic growth rests on the faithful implementation of the ongoing policy and regulatory reforms, improved governance, political stability on the continent and other business facilitation reforms. Oguntayo said this in a paper titled: “economic and Institutional Reforms for Sustainable Growth in Africa” which he presented at the international conference on African Development Issues’,

organized by Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State. The conference also had in attendance two Nobel Laureates in economicsProfessors eric Maskin and Thomas Sargent of harvard and New York Universities, respectively. Giving a broad overview of Africa’s economic prospects, growth and the factors responsible for them, he said the relative progress taking place on the continent could be attributed to improved governance, political stability and other liberal reforms, which have unleashed private sector value creation and

investments in a wide range of industries. “Post-2008 financial crisis, there are indications that African countries have grown strongly and are making steady progress in addressing most of its challenging macroeconomic and governance problems, although they have not fully 'turned the corner,'" he said. Most African countries, according to him, “have successfully implemented microeconomic reforms, with those that have encouraged trade liberalization experiencing faster growth”. he specifically referred to

O address the saga of long T period of litigations among maritime stakeholders, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has announced plans to develop an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), in collaboration with the Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN). The executive Secretary and

Mauritius and Botswana, where well-coordinated institutional reforms have benefited their economies. On Africa’s growth prospects, the Skye Bank boss said the continent has the capacity to significantly outperform its GDP growth in the previous years, considering the abundance of natural resources, population, and sustained democracy. “After a long period of economic stagnation and decline, Africa experienced steady growth in the last decade, mainly due to economic reforms and attendant increased flow of funds”, he said.

Ge partners Century Power to deliver 1,500 MW eNeRAL electric (Ge) has G entered into partnership with Century Power- a leading independent power producer, to build a 1,500 megawatt gasfired power plant in Okija, Anambra state. The project is expected to be completed in phases with the first phase delivering 500 megawatts by 2017. President and CeO of Ge Nigeria, Dr Lazarus Angbazo

said Ge would support the project with long term equity participation, facilitate financing of equipment, operation and maintenance, and long term service contract. For the provision of engineering Procurement and Construction (ePC), Ge has concluded plans to work with Daewoo of Korea The Chairman of Nestoil Group, owners of Century

Power Generation Ltd, Dr. ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi said he was delighted at the partnership with Ge, which he said will transcend the power sector to other sectors such as healthcare, oil/Ggas, and energy management. On his part, the CeO of Century Power Generation Limited, Dr. Chukwueloke Umeh said Ge emerged the preferred bidder for the proj-

NSC proposes alternative dispute resolution scheme at ports By Moses Ebosele

process, adding that the Federal Government was ready to strengthen and support the company to achieve its medium term objective of growing production to 250,000 bpd.

Chief executive Officer of NSC,hassan Bello made the disclosure while receiving the association’s president, Dr Omogbai Omo-eboh and other executive members who paid him a courtesy visit in Lagos , explaining that ADR would save time and resources. Bello decried the prevalence of lingering maritime cases in courts, especially with the negative impact on the econ-

omy. he explained that the council has been mediating and settling disputes between operators in the sector. he said: “Shippers Council has made nice negotiations and it was settled to the satisfaction of the parties. We need the compliment of your association. We are developing the legal framework and the administrative framework for developing ADR. We have had

help from institutions and your association will also be approached to provide us that help.” Omo-eboh congratulated Bello on the appointment of NSC as port economic regulator, pointing out that there is need for synergy. he said: “Not many people know about the benefits of what we do. We are also involved in saving the country a lot of capital flight. What

ect through a rigorous competitive and transparent process. Ge’s global CeO for Power and Water, Steve Bolze thanked the management of Century Power for the great confidence reposed on Ge. he said Ge would continue to leverage on its global pedigree, expertise and superior technology in delivering solutions to stakeholders in the power sector.

we see in the shipping industry now is that when most dispute arise, you either go to court, which takes a lot of time before the cases are resolved or the arbitration clauses in the agreement says they should go to London, which encourages capital flight.” he also used the opportunity to invite the council to the association’s lecture, which is expected to dwell extensively on marine insurance claims.

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CBN seeks compulsory contribution to SWF From Karls Tsokar, Abuja S the country continues to bask in the euphoria of the proclaimed economic growth, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has suggested that contributions into the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) should be made mandatory to all stakeholders. The Acting Governor of the CBN, Dr. Sarah Alade made the submission the submission in Abuja when she appeared before the National Conference Committee on Economy, Trade and Investment. She said if “contributions into the Sovereign Wealth Fund is made mandatory, the economy would function at the optimal level.” While also suggesting to the committee to map out guid-

Chairman, Sona Group, Arjan Khemchand Mirchandani (right); receiving the Minister of Industry, Trade and Commerce, Olusegun Aganga (left); when he visited the Shongai Technologies Limited and Shongai Recycling Plant recently commissioned by the Sona Group in Ota, Ogun State.

NESG records N285.8m revenue By Faith Oparaugo HE Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has recorded N285.8million income in 2013, which represents 6.8 per cent increase over N267.4million achieved in 2012. Speaking at the group’s yearly general meeting recently in Lagos, its Chairman Foluso Phillips said the Nigeria economy experienced a strong growth in 2013, despite the risks faced internationally and domestically. According to him, the Nigerian economy recorded an impressive growth of 6.89 per cent in 2012 owing to relatively high oil prices despite the security problems in the North and large-scale oil theft in the first half of 2013. He noted that the 6.89 per cent GDP growth rate was based on a base on a base year of 1990 and following the recently release rebased GDP figures, actual GDP growth in 2013 was estimated at 7.41 per cent. After the rebasing Nigeria’s economy became the largest in Africa and 26th in the world with a nominal GDP value of N80.2trillion ($510billion). This represents an 89.2per cent increase over the nominal GDP using the 1990 base year. He added that the attractive capital market returns on government bonds and equities made the country an attractive designation for foreign portfolio investors in the past year, even as the economic

environment continued to be difficult. Phillips also commented that the issues relating to the naira has led to reductions in Nigeria’s gross official reserves. The outgoing DirectorGeneral of NESG, Frank Nweke jnr, explained that the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 2013 continued to experience the bullish run that began in the second half of 2012. “This trend continued with greater impetus during the first quarter of 2013 and was sustained through most the year except June to September when market indices fell due to concerns of the US Federal Reserve tapering its quantitative easing (QE) policy”. He pointed out that unlike most global exchanges, the NSE recorded an increase in value of shares traded in 2013. the value traded was N1.04 trillion ( $6.51billion) representing 58.66per cent change fromN658.22billion ($4.23billion) in 2012. Nweke explained that the security situation in the country did not improve in 2013 as violent attacks continued in Northern parts of the country and has remained a major source of concern, urging significant investments in the social sector and a diversified in order to create jobs that will keep our citizens gainfully occupied. He added that N150million has been set aside for NESG endowment fund to ensure sustainable funding the group.

Korean trade delegation visits Nigeria O foster the trade relation- machinery, as well as proT ship between Nigeria and curement executives of elecKorea, a 20-man Korean tric power companies in Electrical Trade Delegation, today, began a three-day visit to the country. The purpose of the visit, according to a statement, is to allow the visitors to explore business opportunity in the Nigerian electrical machinery and equipment market. Besides, the delegation will meet and interact with major stakeholders in the electricity generation and distribution industry, importers and dealers of electrical equipment and

Lagos, which is being arranged by the Commercial Section of the Korean Embassy located in Victoria Island. The statement informed that the handling items of the visiting delegation include, power and distribution transformers; instrument transformers for distribution and transmission line; vacuum circuit breakers; auto transfer switch; power capacitor and Harmonic Filter; industrial batteries for solar power system; solid recloser; SF6 RMU, among others.

ing principle or condition under which the money could be withdrawn and make it part of their recommendation at the end of their sitting, the Acting CBN Governor insisted that the single treasury account should be made mandatory for all tiers of government as is the case with the federation account. She further urged the committee members to exclude in their recommendations the sharing of the excess crude funds, referred to as residual funds, from the funds to be shared among the three tiers of government. She also noted that provisions of portions of revenue from the federation account be set aside for investment for future purposes. Alade explained that this

would make disbursements of funds to the respective governments a routine banking practice to discourage the current monthly sharing of revenues that were quietly mobilized by the revenue agencies. She said Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) allocations should be shared weekly, while stakeholders should meet monthly to reconcile the differences. Alade opined that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation can adopt the practice for remitting collections from the sale of domestic crude oil instead of remitting bulk amounts few days to the FAAC meetings. “That this will reduce the liquidity cycle as well as lower the cost of liquidity management”, she said.

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Appointments Why Nigeria needs social security initiatives, by NSITF boss From Collins Olayinka, Abuja HE implementation of T employees’ compensation scheme has demonstrated the willingness of govern-

ment to care for the welfare of workers who are the engine-room of development, the Managing Director of the Nigeria Social

Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF), Munir Ababakar has said. Making a presentation on the Employees Compensation Act (ECA) to

The Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Commerce, Seye Oladejo (left) and Consumers Project Manger, Customer Service Practitioners Association (CUSPA), Mrs. Isedua Obiodiaka during the Customer Advocacy Foundation Of Nigeria (CAFON) Symposium on 2014 World Consumers Right Day in Lagos

Minister calls for establishment of UN agency on youth From Kananyo Umeh, Abuja INISTER of Youth M Development, Boni Haruna has added his voice to the call for the establishment of a United Nations Agency on Youth similar to the United Nations Agency on Women, while expressing Federal Government’s willingness to host the Agency in Nigeria. Speaking at the just concluded World Conference on Youth 2014 in Colombo, Sri Lanka, the Minister during the presentation of the country’s position to the about 169 delegates from across the world, claimed that the establishment of such an institutional platform under the United Nations, System will afford the youth of the world a global voice. Alluding to the recent creation of Commonwealth Youth Council, Haruna reasoned that the youths will be given a platform to harness their resources and contribute significantly to world debate and development through a single coordinated voice. The Minister while presenting the country position on youth matters revealed that the Transformation Agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan administration

was conceived as a development strategy for effective transformation of the youth sector especially in the post 2015 sustainable development agenda. Continuing, the Minister averred that the adminisPresident of tration Goodluck Jonathan has done considerably well in addressing youth challenges and in moving the sector forward through proactive and economic based programmes and initiatives. Citing YouWin, Youth Employment In Program Agriculture (YEAP), SURE-P and the proposed National Youth Development Fund as part of government’s initiatives to create employment the for opportunities youths Haruna states, “ In all these areas, there have been visible government intervention programs. The strategy for the implementation of the policy thrust of the Transformation Agenda is that it is multi sectoral driven. Indeed, almost all the MDAs and the private sector agencies have youth development component whose programs have impacted positively on the Nigerian Youth”. Noting the challenges fac-

ing the youths in Nigeria such as joblessness and disconnection from mainstream development initiatives, he stated that these have combined to lead to the present security challenges in the country. He however said, “ In spite of these challenges, the Youth sector has remained vibrant. The Nigerian Youth have continued to find relevance and prove themselves where opportunities abound. It was here in Colombo last year that a Nigerian Youth and a product of our own Youth Parliament where he was one time its Chief Whip emerged as the inaugural Chairperson of the Commonwealth Youth Council.” The minister had earlier commended the organizers for the theme of the conference which is on mainstreaming youth issues in the post 2015 Millennium Development Goals, saying “ We are happy to be part of this epoch making conference because it is the first of its kind as an avenue for policy makers and the target group (youth) to discuss and set a development Agenda with emphasis on mainstreaming the youth in the post 2015 Millennium Development Goals”.

the National Conference committee on labour, Abubakar noted that the ECA serves as a boost to government rating in implementing welfare programmes in tandem with the welfare package enshrined in Chapter 2 of the 1999 Constitution. The NSITF boss stressed that Nigeria has now joined the league of member nations of ILO that care for their employees in workplace and in the process creating a pool of investible funds for socioeconomic development, which would also promote industrial peace and enhanced economic development. He went on to list other benefits to include favourable spin-off effects, like employment generation, high productivity with its economic advantages would be enhanced and improved quality of life through prompt response to health challenges in workplace with its attendant impact on Nigeria’s economic indices, like Human Development Index (HDI). The NSITF chief, whose presentation was entitled, “The Employees Compensation scheme in perspective”, said former scheme, Workmen’s

Compensation Act (WCA) of 1942 which fraught with inadequate benefits, cumbersome processing of claims, lack of follow up to rehabilitate injured persons and predominance of profit motive above social service. In clear departure from the WCA, the new ECA places high premium on social service and deemphasized profitability. He listed the advantages of the scheme to include provision for an open and fair system of guaranteed and adequate compensation for all employees or their dependants for any death, injury, diseases or disability arising out of or in the course of employment; provision of rehabilitation to employees with work-related disabilities as provided in the Act; establish and maintain a solvent compensation fund managed in the interest of employees and employers; provides for fair and adequate assessments for employer; provides an appeal procedure that is simple, fair and accessible, with minimal delays and combines efforts and resources of relevant stakeholders for the prevention of workplace disabilities, including the enforcement of occupational safety and

health standards. Currently, he hinted that the scheme has 12, 043 employers registered on the scheme with about 4.2million workers on board. He said the computerization project to provide eoperations for the Fund has reached advance stage, while NSITF-NECA collaboration on Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) is ongoing. Abubakar disclosed that selfaccounting federal establishments and agencies, which are not treasury funded such as the NNPC, PTDF, NECO, NEITI, NEXIM, NESRA etc. are not complying. He also added that all the states of the federation are still not complying except for Taraba state and that the informal sector is yet to be captured. He highlighted that the employees are under obligation to ensure they report cases of accident or injury, or disabling occupational disease to the employer, through their supervisor. He stressed that the advantages of the ECA is that the benefits accruable to the employees and their employers and that the new scheme has features that are beneficial to workers than the defunct WCA.

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APPOINTMENTS Thursday, May 15, 2014

Govt to train 300 small-scale mining cooperatives in 2014 HE Ministry of Mines and T Steel Development said it would train 300 small-scale mining cooperatives through its Extension Services Programme this year. The Director of Artisanal and Small Scale Mining Department in the ministry, Obiora Azubike made the disclosure in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja. He said the training programme would be carried out in the North-West, NorthCentral and South-South geopolitical zones of the country. He added that, ``we are looking at a maximum of 50 mining cooperatives within the three designated zones, with North-West zone having the highest number of cooperatives we intend to train.’’ Azubike said, ``it will be like a case of train-the-trainer, as each of the 50 mining cooperatives to be trained in the three zones will in turn train one cooperative in the various localities.’’ The director said that the training programme would enhance the production and processing capacity of the miners, as well as their safety. He noted that the ministry would distribute safety kits to members of the cooperatives via its extension services programme, for their protection during mining operations. The safety kits include hand gloves, garments, helmets,

nose mask, ear muff, safety boot and rain boot. He advised miners to conduct their mining activities in accordance with the provisions of the Mineral and Mining Act 2007, while complying with environmental regulations. Azubike said that the ministry had factored the elimination of child labour in mines and quarries sensitisation campaign into its extension services programmes so as to dissuade people from using children in mining activities. He said ``we have sensitised mining operators on the need to ensure that children are not seen at mining sites when they ought to be in school. ``Child labour is something that the UN and the Federal Government are trying to discourage because children of school age, who are supposed to be in school, go out to work. ``This is not in the interest of our country because children are the future leaders of tomorrow and if properly developed, they will take over the management of the country’s affairs in the future.’’ The director said that the ministry would establish three additional extension service outposts in Chanchaga in Niger, Birnin Gwari in Kaduna State and Auchi in Edo this year. He added that the extension outposts were to ensure that

mining activities were carried out in a proper way. Azubike said the extension outpost officers would be natives of the localities who could speak the language of the people and report what was happening in the mining fields. He said 27 minerals buying centres had been registered in the country, with the North

Central zone having 20 centres, mostly concentrated in Plateau State and the remaining seven spread across the country. He, however, said that the registration of minerals buying centres was a continuous exercise, noting that the ministry had some pending applications. He said ``it is a continuous

exercise; people keep applying for registration of minerals buying centres. So far, we have registered 27 centres and we have few pending applications. ``We hope to register 10 additional more mineral buying centres this year. This is just a forecast, it depends on the operators. ``The ministry will continue

with efforts to formalise and organise illegal miners into cooperatives, while registering mineral buying centres and renewing their licences.’’ He urged the Federal Government to increase the level of the sector’s funding so as to ensure its development and facilitate the country’s industrialisation.

Ndoma-Egba empowers youths From Anietiie Akpan, Calabar 20 young men and women from Cross River Central Senatorial District have commenced training at the Central Bank of Nigeria [CBN] Entrepreneurial Development Centre [EDC] in Calabar courtesy Senate Leader, Chief Victor Ndoma-Egba. The trainees who commenced training on May 5, 2014, were selected from each of the six Local Government Areas of the district made up of Etung, Ikom, Boki, Obubra, Yakkur and Abi under the senator’s entrepreneurial development skills, which seeks to discover, and groom young businessmen and women into business venture. Aim of the training is to encourage beneficiaries to go into business invest-

ment, which in the main would bring about a boom in economic activities and thus reduce unemployment in the senatorial district and in the state. The trainees will undergo the processes of how to start and manage a business, how to grow a business, and how to identify and take advantage of a business opportunity among other skills. A Special Adviser to the Senator, Mr. Lawrence Agbor Takon said the trainees were occupying three classes at EDC in Calabar and that Senator Ndoma Egba will provide the trainees with capital to invest in businesses of their choice in the Central Senatorial District of the state. He said, “we have one hundred and twenty of

them here and each is specializing in the business of his or her choice and it is expected that after this, the litany of complaints of lack of jobs will be significantly addressed”. The concept of the training, he explained, was to empower people who will in turn employ others in their businesses which will go a long way in tackling the unemployment problem in the Senatorial District. “Senator Ndoma-Egba has facilitated the employment of hundreds of people from the district in various federal agencies and ministries but this is a direct source of employment for the people and the training is to ensure that they do not mismanage the funds they will be given as was the case in the past when the Senator

gave people money to start businesses”, he added. A trainee from Obubra, Tom Ekpe who could not conceal his happiness for the gesture said his life aspiration had been to operate a fish farm, said he had in the past been struggling to start the business but got frustrated by lack of funds. “The big plans I have is to start a fish farm but the whole thing has not been able to see the light of day because of funds but with the promise by the Senator to assist me with some money to start, I will become a success in no distant time”, he said. Feeding and transportation of the trainees is handled by the Senate Leader to enable the trainees concentrate on the intensive lectures.

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Ondo empowers youths with agricultural expertise N its determination to gainIyouth, fully engage its teeming the Ondo state government has admitted over a 100,000 youths into its aquaculture project even as it has kicked off plans to further extend the programme to accommodate more. The state’s Commissioner for Information, Kayode Akinmade speaking with newsmen in Akure, Monday said the government’s desire to further extend the project led to the invitation of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) to deepen the aqua-culture business and make it more modern. Akinmade said the government only recently signed an understanding with IITA, Ibadan, on how to modernise the state’s Agric village in Ore and in other places adding that, “ the youth farmers are there now working with IITA to make sure they raise the standard of the settlement” he said. According to the Commissioner, “We have about 100,000 youths in the aqua-culture project, but what we are doing now is we want to extend it further, that is why we brought in IITA, so that it can deepen the business and make them more modern and then include processing.” The processing, he said, will make each farmer specialise in either raring of birds or fish to enable each of the farmers have knowledge of how to process adding that the farmers are also being trained on to sell their products in a way

Forum on performance intelligence holds in Lagos HE maiden edition of T international conference on performance intelligence in Nigeria will hold on May 20, 2014, at the Eko Hotel, Lagos. The conference, meant to acquaint the nation’s private and public-sector leaders with tools and methodologies that would help their organizations achieve peak performance and efficiency, will have Deiric McCann- a leading global authority on Performance Intelligence, as guest speaker. The discussants will include notable leaders in the sectors like the Lagos State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Mr. Ben Akabueze; Registrar/Chief Executive of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), Dr. Uju Ogubunka; and President/Chairman of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria. The conference is organized by the United States of America-based Profiles International, a world leader in performance intelligence tools and methodologies, with offices in 125 countries, including Nigeria. According to the company’s Country Director, Mrs. Tilda Mmegwa, the Conference is part of the strategies the organization has outlined in its quest to help Nigerian companies attain true global competitiveness and adopt international best practice in their operations.

that will make them almost imperishable. The Commissioner informed that the government has its own fish farms adding, “what we do is to encourage our farmers and teach them the best method of fish farming and that is what we are doing”

Informing that the youth are also involved in its Oil palm revolution project, Akinmade said the government has spent 1 million oil seeds of revolution in Ore and its working with some Malaysian companies. “They have planted all the oil palm trees and within the

next few years they are going to grow and that is going to create a new initiative. It is not just going to be planting of Palm trees, but to ensure also that we go through the processing of the seeds into oil products.” Giving more insight into the government’s agricultural

pursuits. Akinmade said the government just started a rice project at Ogbese called Paddy Rice which is intended to improve the produce of farmers for more that 500 percent. “With all the pilots, we are not going to be working on more than a thousand

hectares in Ore, where we are going to plant using that same method to plant rice and also train our people on how to get the best from their rice planting” concluding that the government’s efforts in all this is to ensure that the youth get engaged and for the people to get the best from their

Why we focus on youths , by Ahmed WARA State Governor, Dr K Abdulfatah Ahmed has explained that his job creation programme was devoid of political inclination but out of the desire to ensure that the youths of the state are gainfully employed and successful entrepreneurs. Speaking during an interaction with journalists in Ilorin, the state capital, the Governor emphasised that ”as a state

and as a government we look at the composition of Kwara and recognised that we have a plethora of unemployed youths. We decided to act fast to prevent it from further degenerating. I’m glad to note that today, from available statistics nationwide, Kwara State has the least of unemployed youths. This tells you that the efforts to get us there are yielding fruits”.

“So, if anybody under any guise tells you that our youth empowerment scheme is political, then the person is not serious. We cannot afford to take the destiny of our youths into an adventure. So we cannot afford to politicise it. It has nothing to do with politics. It has to do with stability and security of this country”, the Governor said. The governor noted that

unemployed youths must be empowered to move away from disillusionment to hope. According to him, “If anybody thinks that is politics then the person is not right. For us, these are very serious issues. We must begin to create hope in our youths and that hope is the essence of our empowerment schemes”. He recalled that when his administration started in 2011

the Kwara Bridge Empowerment Scheme, KWABES, was designed to move youths from idleness to empowerment and ultimately to job placements. As at today, the Governor affirmed, over 5000 youths have already been empowered, adding that another batch of 8,000 youths will be moved from idleness to empowerment before the end of the year.

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ScienceGuardian ASTRONOMY With JK Obatala

Stars, planets, clusters herald dry season (14) HE three slanting Belt T Stars in Orion constellation, is the best known visu-

Ultra-flexible battery’s performance rises to meet demands of wearable electronics

Scientists make tiny ‘batteries’ for wearable medical monitors Scientists have taken a large step toward making a fiber-like energy storage device that can be woven into clothing and power wearable medical monitors, communications equipment or other small electronics. Their supercapacitor packs an interconnected network of graphene and carbon nanotubes so tightly that it stores energy comparable to some thin-film lithium batteries. have taken a large SlikeCIENTISTS step toward making a fiberenergy storage device that can be woven into clothing and power wearable medical monitors, communications equipment or other small electronics. The device is a supercapacitor- a cousin to the battery. This one packs an interconnected network of graphene and carbon nanotubes so tightly that it stores energy comparable to some thin-film lithium batteries — an area where batteries have traditionally held a large advantage. The product’s developers, engineers and scientists at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore, Tsinghua University in China, and Case Western Reserve University in the United States, believe the storage capacity by volume (called volumetric energy density) is the highest reported for carbon-based microscale supercapacitors to date: 6.3 microwatt hours per cubic millimeter. The device also maintains the advantage of charging and releasing energy much faster than a battery. The fiber-structured hybrid materials offer huge accessible surface areas and are highly conductive. The researchers have developed a way to continuously produce the flexible fiber, enabling them to scale up production for a variety of uses. To date, they’ve made 50-meter long fibers, and see no limits on length.

They envision the fiber supercapacitor could be woven into clothing to power medical devices for people at home, or communications devices for soldiers in the field. Or, they say, the fiber could be a space-saving power source and serve as “energy-carrying wires” in medical implants. Yuan Chen, a professor of chemical engineering at NTU led the new study, working with Dingshan Yu, Kunli Goh, Hong Wang, Li Wei and Wenchao Jiang at NTU; Qiang Zhang at Tsinghua; and Liming Dai at Case Western Reserve. The scientists report their research in Nature Nanotechnology. Dai, a professor of macromolecular science and engineering at Case Western Reserve and a co-author of the paper, explained that most superca-

pacitors have high power density but low energy density, which means they can charge quickly and give a boost of power, but don’t last long. Conversely, batteries have high energy density and low power density, which means they can last a long time, but don’t deliver a large amount of energy quickly. Microelectronics to electric vehicles can benefit from energy storage devices that offer high power and high energy density. That’s why researchers are working to develop a device that offers both. To continue to miniaturize electronics, industry needs tiny energy storage devices with large volumetric energy densities. By mass, supercapacitors might have comparable energy storage, or energy density, to

batteries. But because they require large amounts of accessible surface area to store energy, they have always lagged badly in energy density by volume. To improve the energy density by volume, the researchers designed a hybrid fiber. A solution containing acidoxidized single-wall nanotubes, graphene oxide and ethylenediamine, which promotes synthesis and dopes graphene with nitrogen, is pumped through a flexible narrow reinforced tube called a capillary column and heated in an oven for six hours. Sheets of graphene, one to a few atoms thick, and aligned, single-walled carbon nanotubes self-assemble into an interconnected prorous network that run the length of the fiber.

Do shorter men live longer? HORT height and long life SJapanese have a direct connection in men, according to new research. Shorter men are more likely to have a protective form of the longevity gene, FOXO3, leading to smaller body size during early development and a longer lifespan. Shorter men are also more likely to have lower blood insulin levels and less cancer. The new research is based on the Kuakini Honolulu Heart Program (HHP) and the

Kuakini Honolulu-Asia Aging Study (HAAS). Researchers at the Kuakini Medical Center, the University of Hawai`i (UH) John A. Burns School of Medicine and U.S. Veterans Affairs worked on the study, which was recently published in PLOS ONE, a peerreviewed medical journal. The researchers showed that shorter men were more likely to have a protective form of the longevity gene, FOXO3, leading to smaller body size

during early development and a longer lifespan. Shorter men were also more likely to have lower blood insulin levels and less cancer. One of the investigators for the study and a Professor in the University of Hawai`i (UH) John A. Burns School of Medicine’s Department of Geriatric Medicine, said Dr. Bradley Willcox, said: “We split people into two groups - those that were 5-foot-2 and shorter, and 5-4 and taller.

al configuration in the night sky. This is due partly to their beauty and brightness- but also because of Orion’s equatorial position on the celestial sphere, which makes the asterism visible from most points on Earth’s surface. The visibility of the Belt Stars has had an indelible influence on human culture, extending over many thousands of years. This influence is evinced, for instance, in the famous allegorical passage in which the Biblical Prophet Job (38:31) is challenged to “loose the Belt [sometimes ‘Band’] of Orion”. Long before Biblical times though, Black astronomers and engineers in Egypt built monumental replicas of the Belt Stars, most notably at Giza. The layout of the Great Pyramids is believed to have been based on the alignment of certain stars in Orion constellation, which the Egyptians called “Sah”. “Because pharaohs were believed to be transformed into Osiris after death,” asserts A Guide To The Night Sky, “some of the greatest pyramids – the ones at Giza – were built to mirror the pattern of the stars in the constellation”. Below the Sahara, notes Psychohistorian.Org, “Several cultures identify the Belt Stars as animals”. In southern Africa, for example, the Sotho and Tswana see the stars as “three pigs,” as do Zimbabwe’s Karanga. The Belt Stars are “a Hunter with his Dog and an Animal” to the Songye of Democratic Republic of Congo, while in East Africa the Masai refer to the asterism as “Three Old Men Pursued by Lonesome Widows”! The scientific conception may be less colourful- but is hardly less intriguing. The Belt asterism consists of three young, bright and very hot supergiants, each bluish white, which were incubated in what astronomers refer to as a “stellar nursery”. But before we visit the Orion nursery, some detail about its three most visible products might prove helpful. They each carry Arabic names, meaning “belt,” “girdle,” etc. and are some 20 times more massive than our local star. Going from east to west, and using astronomer Ronald J. Maddalena’s figures, Alnitak is 10,000 times brighter than the Sun while

Alnilam, the centre star, is 18,000 times more luminous. Mintaka, the westernmost body, is much dimmer than the other two- just 7,000 times brighter than the Sun. It should be noted, that Wikipedia’s brightness estimates are far higher than Maddalena’s. But that could be because the Internet encyclopedia takes ultraviolet emission into account, whereas Maddalena apparently doesn’t. In any event, two out of the three supergiants are actually star systems, rather than individual stars. According to Wikipedia, Alnitak is really a close binary, consisting of a blue supergiant (Aa) and a blue dwarf (Ab). Alnitak “B,” the third companion star, orbits Aa and Ab every 1500 years. Mintaka, on its part, is a double star, Wikipedia says, with both bodies revolving around each other every 5.73 days. Maddalena’s chart shows that the distances of the Belt Stars from us, range from 800 to 1000 light years. “All three [stars] are [roughly] at the same distance from us…,”, he says, on his website, “and probably formed at about the same time, some ten million years ago, from the molecular clouds astronomers have found in Orion”. With this introduction, we can now peep in on a stellar nursery- the Orion Nebula, which is part of the Orion Molecular Cloud. The nebula (visible to the naked eye) is a cosmic womb, where stars and their planetary systems are conceived and nurtured. As I cautioned early on, this whole business of “nebula” and “molecular cloud” can be confusing: Because “nebula” means “cloud” in Latin. In order to avoid this, think of nebulae as localized sites of star formation and the larger cloud as systems of nebulae. “Molecular clouds” get their name from the fact that the hydrogen gas making up most of their content is in neutral molecular, rather than atomic, formmuch like the oxygen in Earth’s lower atmosphere. The Milky Way and other galaxies are populated with huge, roving masses of this cosmic gas and dust, whose average physical dimensions are 10 parsecs (a parsec is about 3.27 light years) long. They can contain a million solar masses of material (John D. Fix, Astronomy: Journey To The Cosmic Frontier). To be continued.

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Council on Health wants states to set up structures for trauma victims *Climate change, drug resistance top agenda as 67th World Health Assembly begins Monday in Geneva By Chukwuma Muanya th

HEAD of the 57 National Council of Health (NCH) A meeting scheduled for August 25 to 29, 2014, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, a pre meeting has urged all States prone to trauma and trauma related issues to put in place contingency plans for the management of trauma victims and their relations even as it condemned the activities of the Boko Haram and other terrorist groups in Nigeria especially, the recent bomb blast in Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as well as the abduction of school girls in Borno State. Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, yesterday presided over meeting, which was attended by the Honourable Commissioners for Health of the 36 States and the Secretary of the Health and Human Services Secretariat, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA). The meeting preceded a Technical Committee meeting on May 11, 2014, under the Chairmanship of the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH), Mr. Linus N. Awute. The National Council on Health in a communiqué mandated states to immediately set up state task teams to inspect the Obstetric department of all health facilities in their states

with a view to ensuring compliance with prescribed minimum standards and improve quality of care. The Council called on the States to implement various strategies to increase the proportion of citizens in their states covered under suitable health care insurance arrangements particularly, the community based health insurance scheme The Council appreciated the members of the Senate for passing the National Health Bill and urged the members of the House of Representatives to do likewise. The Council also approved that States should use the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) Harmonised Country Plan of Priority Interventions for 2014 to 2015 and the management processes in our last ditch effort to accelerate the achievement of the Health MDGs; and that States should own and domesticate the plan and use it as a tool for resource mobilization. The Council endorsed the theme and sub-themes for the 57th NCH meeting and approved that the 57th NCH meeting would be held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State from August 25 to 29, 2014. Also, the Sixty-seventh session of the World Health Assembly (WHA) will on Monday May 19, 2014, begin in

Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Ado Muhammad (left), Director, Planning Research and Statistics, NPHCDA, Dr. Muhammad Abdullahi, Senior Health Advisor at British Department for International Development (DFID), Dr. Ruth Lawson, and National Programme Manager, Partnership for Reviving Routine Immunization in Northern Nigeria of the Maternal and Child Heath component (PRRINN – MNCH), Dr. Abdulwahab Ahmad, at the flag – down of PRRINN – MNCH support activities in Nigeria… recently Geneva, Switzerland. Top on the nants of health and tuberculo- Ebola virus disease outbreak in WHA are to determine the Africa, among others. policies of the Organization, agenda is special focus on cli- sis. The WHA, holding between appoint the Director-General, Top on Nigeria’s agenda to mate change, drug resistance, essential medicine, health tech- the 67th WHA, according to May 19 and 24, 2014, is attended supervise financial policies, nology, hepatitis, International Chukwu, is the proposed by delegations from all WHO and review and approve the Health Regulations (IHR), new- African Centre for Disease Member States and focuses on proposed programme budgborn health, non communica- Control (ACDC), African a specific health agenda pre- et. The Health Assembly is ble diseases, social determi- Medicine Agency (AMA), recent pared by the Executive Board. held annually in Geneva, The main functions of the Switzerland.

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NaturalHealth ‘Chemicals in soap, toothpaste, others cause male infertility’ HEMICALS in common C household products such as toothpaste, soap and plastic

Want to live healthy, long life? Get 60 minutes physical activity daily

toys have a direct impact on human sperm, which could help explain rising levels of male infertility, scientists have found. One in three “non-toxic” chemicals used in the manufacture of everyday items significantly affected the potency of sperm cells, which may account for the high incidence of unexplained infertility in the human population, the researchers said. It is the first time that a study has found a direct effect of the many ubiquitous man made chemicals in the environment on a vital function of human sperm. The findings will raise further concerns about the hidden toxicity of chemicals deemed safe by toxicology tests. But the researchers believe they have developed a new way of testing the impact of household chemicals on human sperm which will allow regulatory authorities in Europe to decide whether to ban or impose restrictions on their use in certain products.

‘Fruits, vegetables lower stroke risk’ ATING more fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of stroke worldwide, according to new research in the American Heart Association’s journal Stroke. Researchers conducted a meta-analysis of 20 studies published over the last 19 years to assess the effects of fruit and vegetable consumption on risk of stroke globally. The combined studies involved 760,629 men and women who had 16,981 strokes. Stroke risk decreased by 32 percent with every 200 grams of fruit consumed each day and 11 percent with every 200 grams of vegetables consumed each day. “Improving diet and lifestyle is critical for heart and stroke risk reduction in the general population,” said Yan Qu, M.D., the study’s senior author, director of the intensive care unit at Qingdao Municipal Hospital and professor at the Medical College of Qingdao University in Qingdao, China. “In particular, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is highly recommended because it meets micronutrient and macronutrient and fiber requirements without adding substantially to overall energy requirements.” Macronutrients (carbohydrates, protein and fat) provide calories or energy. Our bodies need smaller amounts of micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals. The researcher cited studies demonstrating that high fruit and vegetable consumption can lower blood pressure and improve microvascular function. It has favorable effects on body mass index, waist circumference, cholesterol, inflammation and oxidative stress.

Sports, energy drink consumption linked to negative behaviours EEKLY consumption of W sports drinks and energy drinks among adolescents is significantly associated with higher consumption of other sugar-sweetened beverages, cigarette smoking, and screen media use, according to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Minnesota and Duke University, United States. The study was undertaken to build understanding of health behavior patterns related to adolescent consumption of sports and energy drinks and inform intervention strategies to reduce consumption of these sugar-sweetened beverages. Although national data have shown a decline in the prevalence of soft drink and fruit drink consumption, sports and energy drink consumption has tripled among adolescents in recent years. The high caffeine content of energy drinks, as well as the high sugar and calorie content of many sports and energy drinks, has drawn much concern from health professionals.

Start them young… 2013 Nigerian Report on Physical Activity for Children and Youth focused on physical activity as a major determinant of Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in view of the scientific evidence that regular physical activity from childhood and youth have strong positive effects on health throughout life

The recently launched 2013 Nigerian Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth, Nestle’s Healthy Kids Global Programme and other current studies are unanimous that at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily will not only reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases such as obesity, high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes but exposure to bad behaviours such as smoking, unprotected sex and violence. CHUKWUMA MUANYA writes. HE verdict is out: Regular daily, however, physical activiT physical activity from child- ty greater than 60 minutes prohood and youth has strong pos- vides additional health beneitive effects on health throughout life by preventing the onset of chronic and non communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and the resultant disabilities and premature deaths. The 2013 Nigerian Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth, prepared and produced by the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) reads: “Physical activity is important for the health and general development of children and youth, and the attitude of physical inactivity portends a great danger for this population. It has been documented that physical inactivity and low levels of physical activity are predisposing factors to many chronic diseases. “An increase in the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases among Nigerian adolescents has been previously reported, and the treand of declined usage of active mode of transportation arising from the proliferation of fairly used imported cars, locally known as Tokunbo, and operation of motor bikes, Okada, for commercial purpose has also been documented. “For health gains, it has been recommended that children and youth should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity

fits.” Executive Director NHF, Dr. Kingsley Akinroye, said: “We hope this report card will initiate a thrust for action on the pivotal role of physical activity in the promotion of the health of Nigerians especially in the fight against NCDs.” Also, Nestle, the world’s leading nutrition, health and wellness company, is actively addressing the pressing issues of obesity and under-nutrition in Central and West Africa and worldwide. According to Nestle, in youngsters, a lack of physical activity and bad dietary habits may lead to obesity. At the same time, the absence of vital micronutrients such as vitamin A, zinc, iron or iodine can cause stunting in growth and a lower resistance to infection. To help tackle these prevalent problems, Nestle launched its Healthy Kids Global Programme aimed at children aged six to 12 in 2009. The programme aims to help counteract these widespread trends by promoting nutrition education, good nutritional practices, healthy lifestyles and physical activity amongst schoolchildren. Its approach is based on worldwide multi-stakeholder partnerships such as national and local governments, non-

governmental organizations, nutrition health institutes or sport federations. Two years after its global launch, Nestle extended the initiative to the Central and West Africa region, starting with Nigeria and Ghana. To further develop the physical activity side of the initiative, children are taking part in one physical activity class each week. Nestle teamed up with its global partner, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), in Nigeria in 2013, and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, to further develop the programme and promote athletics in schools. The company has also implemented its Kids Athletics Programme through the Ghana Athletics Association, the local entity that is working with the IAAF. In 2013, Nestle carried out its first monitoring and evaluation of the Healthy Kids Programme in Nigeria with the Human Nutrition Department at the University of Ibadan. Results showed that participating schoolchildren significantly improved their eating habits and physical activity behaviour. The Nestle Healthy Kids Global Programme is part of the company’s approach to business, which it calls ‘Creating Shared Value’. It is

part of Nestle’s commitment to promote healthy diets and encourage active lifestyles and physical activity. NHF and Nestle are supported by a research published over the weekend in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, which suggests that, from age 30, physical inactivity has the biggest impact on certain risk factors - such as excess weight, smoking and high blood pressure- in women. These risk factors are known to increase lifetime risk of developing heart disease in women. The researchers used data on 32,254 participants in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women’s Health, which tracks the long-term health of women born in certain spans of time between 1921 and 1978. Also, a new research published in Diabetologia indicates that brief bursts of intense exercise before meals (termed exercise ‘snacking’ by the study authors) helps control blood sugar in people with insulin resistance more effectively than one daily 30-minute session of moderate exercise. Diabetologia is the journal of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes. The research was conducted by exercise science and medicine researchers, including Monique Francois, and Associate Professor James Cotter from the University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.

Gluten-free diet reduces risk of type 1 diabetes in mice EW experiments on mice N show, that mouse mothers can protect their pups from developing type 1 diabetes by eating a gluten-free diet. According to preliminary studies by reseachers at the University of Copenhagen, the findings may apply to humans. More than one per cent of the Danish population has type 1 diabetes, one of the highest incidence rates in the world. New experiments on mice now show a correlation between the health of the pups and their mothers eating a gluten-free diet. Our hope is that the disease may be prevented through simple dietary changes, the researchers say. The mouse study adds more knowledge to a field that has been object for research many years. The findings have recently been published in the recognised journal Diabetes. Also, according to research at Linköping University in Sweden, a low-carbohydrate diet, but not a low-fat diet, reduces inflammation in patients with type 2 diabetes. It is known that patients with type 2 diabetes have higher levels of inflammation than those who do not have the disease, and it is believed that this may contribute to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and other complications. In a clinical trial at Linköping University a lowcarbohydrate diet was compared with a traditional lowfat diet in 61 patients with type 2 diabetes.

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SCIENCE HEALTH Thursday, May 15, 2014

Obembe, newly elected NMA President, promises universal health coverage By Chukwuma Muanya HE new President of the T Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr Kayode Obembe, an Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, has pledged to improve health care delivery in the country through universal coverage. Obembe, from Ibadan, Oyo State, who was elected the new president at the 54th annual delegates conference of the association held recently in Benin told The Guardian in a telephone chat that the new executives would deliver their duties with vigour, enthusiasm and singleness of purpose. The new NMA president expressed appreciation to members of the association for putting their mandate on them. Obembe said that his administration would operate within two guiding philosophies, one of which is LOVE, meaning: Let Offences Vanish Entirely. He said the second philosophy was to ensure that every Nigerian got covered by the National Health Insurance scheme (NHIS) through its Universal Health Coverage Scheme for all. The outgoing President of NMA, Dr Osahon Enabulele, in his handover speech congratulated the association’s new leadership and urged it to keep its dreams alive. He called on members of the association to support the new administration, saying that it was the only way the association would continue to make progress. Enabulele commended the NMA for its enthusiasm, love and support during his tenure, saying that the past executives would always be there to provide advice and support to the new administration. Other members of the new executive include: Dr Titus Ibekwe (Ist Vice President) and Dr Okoro Chukwu Bartty (2nd Vice President). Others are: Dr Adewunmi Alayaki (Secretary-General), Dr Chuoka Ossai-Abaninwa (Deputy Secretary) and Dr Abubakar Abdulrahman (National Treasurer). Obembe is also the Chief Medical Director of Christus Specialist Hospital Nigeria Limited. As a former President of National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD), former State Chairman and VicePresident of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), he has championed many crusades for the improvement of Health Care Delivery in the country, particularly in Health Care Financing. He is the author of many articles/books related to medical practice in a developing economy; and has been the recipient of main awards both national and international. He was appointed Lecturer/Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Maduguri Teaching Hospital, Bornu State, and later Senior Lecturer Ladoke Akintola University of Technology Teaching Hospital, Osogbo in Osun State. At the National Postgraduate Medical College he was Faculty member, Assistant Secretary and an examiner in Obstetrics and Gynaecology. He was a mem-

Obembe ber of the Editorial Board of the College Journal. He is a member of the society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON). Dr. Kayode Obembe has attended many international Conferences in Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Ultrasound in Europe, North America, and South-East Asia, including the last International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics

(FIGO) in Kuala-Lumpur, Malaysia 2006. He is a member of many International Learned Medical Societies, including the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynaecology with headquarters in London, U.K., International Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons (SLS) with headquarters in Miami, Florida, and American

Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) with headquarters in Laurel, Maryland both in United States of America. He runs a NonGovernmental Organisation in partnership with Compassionate Hands International, United States of America, for distribution of drugs to rural communities in Nigeria.

‘Salty diet can lead to hypertension’ By Joseph Okoghenun EALTH experts have called adolescents to avoid salty diets, warning that such diets were capable of causing hypertension, as they grow older. The experts, who spoke in Lagos during cardiovascular grass root programme organised by Chike Okoli Foundation in collaboration with Lagos State Ministry of Education for over 1000 senior secondary students (SSS) of Dairy Farm Senior Secondary School, Agege, Lagos, also urged adolescents to be mindful of their lifestyles as whatever they do today have future implications on their heart. The grass root programme is annual event aimed to educate, create awareness and screen students in secondary school of heart related diseases in memory of late Chike Okoli, who died at the age of 25 of cardiovascular disease. This

year, the programme is targeting over 10,000 students in Lagos public schools. Public health physician and resident doctor at the university of Lagos Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Dr. Idiakhoa Iyare, who was one of the guest lecturers for the programme, said the importance of the cardiovascular grass root programme could not be over emphasised as exposing young ones to implications of their lifestyles would save them from deaths and sufferings that could result from future cardiovascular diseases. “If we call hypertension a silent killer, it means that it is going to be silent for a long time,” Iyare said: “ But if we could make this children get aware earlier and start focusing on healthy ways of living while they are much younger, it would be easier for them to modify their habits why they are young.” Programme Coordinator of

Chike Okoli Foundation, Mrs.Beauty Alfred, said that the programme was important to raise the health status of students in Lagos schools because “we believe that they are ignorant of the implications of some of their lifestyles,” adding that “ we want to catch them young.” The students were taken through series of lectures on the causes, implications and how to avoid hypertension by various experts from LUTH. Blood pressures of the students were also measured. Iyare added that hypertension is different from high blood pressure, which could arise from increased activities. The public health physician said: “Hypertension is a persistently elevated blood pressure. That means that the blood pressure is greater than 140-millimetre mercury systolic blood pressure and greater than 90-millimetre mercury diastolic blood pressure.

Amosun woos religious leaders in fight against malaria GUN State Governor, O Senator Ibikunle Amosun has charged religious leaders in the country to be more active in the fight against malaria. Flagging off the National Malaria Elimination Programme organised by the State Ministry of Health in conjunction with a NonGovernmental Organisation (NGO), Nigerian Inter-Faith Action Association (NIFAA), the Governor, represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr.

Olaokun Soyinka, also urged them to be united in efforts to check the disease as well as inform their followers on the importance of the use of treated mosquito nets. According to him, campaign against malaria would not be effective without the collaborative effort of the faith leaders in Nigeria, because according to him, their followers tend to listen and follow their instructions to the latter. Amosun lamented that malaria has killed more

Nigerians than any single disease in the country, noting however that over two million insecticide treated nets were recently distributed across the state in an effort to fight malaria to a standstill. He also stated that “ARAYA”, launched recently, is also aimed at fighting malaria during pregnancy and bringing free and qualitative health care delivery closer to the people of the state. ‘’Fighting malaria to standstill will be more effective and spread faster

Cytogene boss draws awareness to cord blood banking By Wole Oyebade IGERIA has been urged to N support the cord blood banking due to the potential it has in curing various lifethreatening diseases. Chief Executive Officer of Cytogene Services Limited, Dr Diane Hamzeh at this year’s seminar on cord blood banking, said that the blood contains powerful stem cells that have been used to regenerate healthy blood and immune systems in more than 30,000 transplants world wide. According to her, the cord blood banking is a process of collection and storing of the baby’s umbilical cord stem cells for potential medical use. She stated that cord blood comes from a newborn’s umbilical cord and is collected immediately after birth. She noted that once the umbilical cord has been clamped and cut, the remaining blood in the umbilical cord is drawn into a collection bag. Dr Hamzeh said that private banks like Smart Cells International store cord blood with a link to the identity of the donor, so that the family may retrieve it later if it is needed. This, she said, gives

the parents the custody of the cord blood until the child is an adult. She said: “The cord blood might someday be needed by the donor baby, or it could be used by a relative who is a close enough match to receive a transplant from the donor, typically a sibling. Doctors recommend banking for a variety of reasons for the treatment of life-threatening diseases including leukemia, certain other cancers and blood, immune and metabolic disorders. And using your own family’s cord blood can have significant advantages in treatments.” The Cytogene Services boss said that the cord blood stems were biologically younger and more flexible compared to adult stem cells from other sources like bone marrow. According to her, the cord blood stem when saved, have unique qualities and advantages, which include less risk of complications when used in transplants, ability to use one’s own stem cells for conditions that currently lack medical treatment options, also known as “autologous transplantation, immediately available and can minimize disease progression in early treatment.

Bank auctions African artworks to raise anti-blindness funds S part of efforts geared A towards prevention of avoidable blindness and in aid of Seeing is Believing (SiB) in Nigeria, multiple departments of Standard Chartered Bank (SCB), including the Commercial and Private Bank, Corporate and Institutional and Retail teams on Monady sponsored an auction of African artworks organised by Arthouse Contemporary. According to a press statement from SCB, this is the third year the Bank and Arthouse Contemporary have partnered together to support SiB. Over USD 100,000 has been raised towards the eradication of avoidable blindness in Nigeria. With the Bank matching contributions, the funds meant we were able to contribute to eye care in Nigeria by providing over 6,000 cataract and glaucoma surgeries, 2500 spectacles dispensed, 60,000 screenings along with vital surgical equipment being made available and over 600 health workers trained in relevant eye-care areas. Launched in 2003 to celebrate the Bank’s 150th anniversary, SiB is Standard Chartered’s global initiative to tackle avoidable blindness in

communities across its footprint, especially among children, and to raise awareness of blindness and visual impairment. SiB has reached over 45 million people in over 17 countries through the provision of services to prevent and treat blindness and educate communities about eye health. Through donations from customers, clients and staff, the Bank has contributed to 2.9 million sight restorations and raised more than USD63mn, including bank matching. This money has gone on to provided funding to 80 projects globally. Seeing is Believing is a collaboration between International Agency for Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), Standard Chartered Bank and leading eye-care NGOs. SiB invests in comprehensive and sustainable eye care projects with a focus on building longterm, local capacity (such as training and infrastructure) to tackle avoidable blindness in areas of high need. Helping ease and eliminate blindness is a clear example of the Bank’s long-term commitment to its markets and addressing an issue that impacts health and economic productivity in the Bank’s communities.

‘Zamfara is polio-free’ From Isah Ibrahim, Gusau AMFARA State Ministry of Health has said that the state recorded zero polio case in the last two and a half years. Director of Primary Health Care in the ministry, Yusuf Musa Mafara said this during a live radio phone-in programme to commemorate this year’s World Immunisation Week. Mafara represented by the state immunisation officer, Aliyu Idris, described the success to various commitment made by governments at all levels and other nongovern-

mental organisations working in the state. According to him, in 2006 the state had over 60 cases of polio meningitis, and expressed happiness that for the past two and a half years no polio cases were recorded across the state. He said, “The happy story and the successes were recorded due to the relentless efforts of the 14 LGAs, State, Federal Government and partners particularly, the routine immunisation basket funds initiated by the state.

Thursday, May 15, 2014 SCIENCE & HEALTH

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Kolade, Mbanefo, Adelusi-Adeluyi, others chart path to better healthcare delivery services By Wole Oyebade HE quest to establish an T ultra modern health facility and service linkage between Nigerian patients and teeming Nigerian medical practitioners in Diaspora received a boost at the weekend, as stakeholders brainstorm and pledged support to the course. Besides passing a vote of confidence on the initiative, the policy meeting was another opportunity to x-ray existing gaps, challenges and possible solutions to healthcare delivery in the country. Roll call of eminent Nigerians present at the group meeting underscores the importance of the effort, courtesy of Nigerian-American Medical Foundation International (NAMFI). The forum chaired by Former Minister of Health, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, had in attendance, Ambassadors Christopher Kolade and Arthur Mbanefo, Former Minister of Health, Adenike Grange, Prof. Joseph Sodipo, Mr. Ebun Sonaiya and Dr Adeyinka Shoroye among others. Representatives of corporate organisations like First City Monument Bank (FCMB), CISCO, IBTC, IBM, Oracle, Microsoft also pledged their technical assistance to the notfor-profit organisation. The policy meeting was a fallout of NAMFI’s grand launch last December in Lagos, setting in motion its 10 years development plan for new face of tertiary healthcare serv-

Executive Secretary, Nigerian-American Medical Foundation International (NAMFI), Dr Adeyinka Shoroye (left); Ambassador Christopher Kolade; Former Ministers of Health, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi and Adenike Grange and Ambassador Arthur Mbanefo at the NAMFI policy meeting in PHOTO: WOLE OYEBADE Lagos recently. ice in Nigeria. Executive Secretary of NAMFI, Dr Shoroye explained that lessprivileged Nigerians are the main focus of the intervention, adding that they would benefit from NAMFI’s Indigent Fund, among others designed to “help the indigent that cannot afford to leave the country for care”. Besides setting up physical infrastructure in the country, the group is facilitating a network of Nigerian specialists based overseas to contribute health care services in Nigeria. This innovation, solely on ter-

tiary care, is arguably the largest specialty/subspecialty network group in Nigeria currently with about 40 Physicians in the Practice model and to expand to about 200 to 500 physicians in the next five to ten years. The medical staff model with doctors mostly from United States and Canada, experienced and eminent Nigeriabased Physicians including retired Nigerian medical professors, all Specialists and onsite in Lagos year-round, on a rotating schedule in over 50 medical and surgical special-

ties and sub-specialties. The project is currently designed for non-emergencies. There is special referral mechanism in our telemedicine system with the finest doctors across the United States for second opinions, diagnostic puzzles and further consultations. According to Shoroye: “We have four challenges in tertiary care today. We are addressing the human capital part of it because we have huge human capital in Diaspora that are willing to come.

“Infrastructure is number two, and we are prepared for that. Third is the attitude, and it is our message to Nigerians to be positive. Four is lack of national referral programme, which we have also put in place. But Nigerians’ attitude must change; they must be positive, take action and be proactive that things would work. This is the lead we are taking at NAMFI,” Shoroye said. Adelusi-Adeluyi noted that the initiative was an idea whose time has come. And given the right support from

public and private sectors, he said, it could change the medical practice and service of health delivery to the larger population of Nigeria. Expressing confidence in the plan, he said: “NAMFI can breakthrough. The advisers are people loaded with experience and they can download from it, utilize their constituencies of influence and bring understanding and support, NAMFI would make the difference. NAMFI has brought the very best from the United States, which provide the very best in healthcare to ensure that they can give back to their country of birth.” Addressing the stakeholders, Adelusi-Adeluyi, who is also the Chairman, Board of Trustee NAMFI, observed that Nigeria is a difficult terrain, with so many faults to point at. He, however, added that Nigerians must draw inspiration from the fact that if it is to be better, it is up to them. His words: “We can dare to be different and make the difference. This is why we are here. We can draw inspiration from the words of Carl Sagan (19341996), who having observed brilliant Nigerians around him, said ‘How great a nation Nigeria can be. If the country can solve its problems, it would be a beacon for the rest of the world.’ If we can get things right with NAMFI, then we would have get our hands on a very good thing,” Adelusi-Adeluyi said. Amb. Kolade, in his contribution, noted that Nigerians is not lacking in new infrastructure, but in sustainability

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SCIENCE HEALTH Thursday, May 15, 2014

‘How to boost heart surgery in Nigeria’

New genomics technique to improve treatment, control of malaria *Implantable device to beat high blood pressure INGLE-CELL genomics could Sbiology provide new insight into the of Malaria parasites,

Medical doctors on duty during the heart surgery performed by doctors at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State over at the weekend. PHOTO: PAUL ADUNWOKE patients have no need travel- Sayeed said: “Nigerian doctors, Nigeria. “There is a large volBy Paul Adunwoke EART surgeons have called on the Nigerian government to build robust primary healthcare system that would help to prevent heart related diseases in the country, even as they explained that teaching hospitals needed to be empowered to handle difficult heart surgeries. They also called on the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to support heart surgery in Nigeria by providing necessary health insurance products that would make heart surgery affordable. The experts, who spoke after performing open-heart surgeries at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Oyo State, during a collaborative programme organised by UCH, TriState Cardiovascular Institute, United State of America (USA) and JNC International Limited (JNCI) Ikoyi, Lagos, said Nigerians needed to erase from their memory the thinking that heart surgery can not be perform in the country. While UCH and TriState Cardiovascular Institute provided open-heart surgeons for the programme, JNC International Limited (JNCI) provided the sophisticated equipment that was used. At least nine patients benefited from the open-heart surgery. The feat is one of the few successful cases being recorded by the Nigerian healthcare system in open –heart surgery, as most open-heart patients prefer going abroad for lack of trust on the nation’s healthcare system. But the team of surgeons from UCH and TriState Cardiovascular Institute said with the collaboration,

ling abroad for such surgery, as UCH is determined to change the face of heartsurgery in Nigeria. Some of the equipment provided by JNC International Limited (JNCI) include toshiba infinix-I single plane for catheterisation laboratory, power-led video prepared surgical light for operating theatre suite, maquet modutec ceiling pendant, penlon anaesthesia machine, maquet operating table for intensive care, braun infusion pumps, maquet servoI universal ventilator among others. Senior Consultant and lead Cardiothoracic Surgeon from India-based Hazrat Bismillah Shah (HBS) Hospital, Dr.Muhammed Rehan Sayeed, said though Nigeria has skilled manpower, but they needed to be trained to meet international standards in open-heart surgery.

nurses and technicians have skills, but they just need support and backup to take heart surgery by themselves”. “We came to make things confortable for everyone and to do high surgical work here for the people of Nigeria. We chose University College Hospital UCH Ibadan because TriState and UCH have been in collaboration for a long time. “We have carried out successful heart surgery for nine patients with related heart disease and tree of them have congenital heart disease. We intend to treat the patients within four days, and to keep the programme alive with UCH and see how we can get back target surgery as programme with UCH on track with the help of TriState and people around TriState.” Sayeed added that congenital heart disease was becoming a serious heart disease in

ume of congenital heart disease in Nigeria,” Sayeed said, “ because as a country Nigeria is divided into many tribes that inter-marry. Many people are dying because they cannot get a proper treatment. National Health Insurance Scheme needs to subsidies cardiothoracic surgery in Nigeria. This is what government should have done for the of people. This will open door for all the school children to come in and do the surgery, rather than to travel abroad because they pay double amount of what supposed to pay in Nigeria. There is need to develop medical infrastructure in Nigeria to support medical doctors to perform every day heart surgery.” Consultant cardiovascular surgeon with TriState, Dr. Michael Olutoyin Sanusi, said there is need for public private partnership (PPP) to handle successful heart surgeries in Nigeria.

Group partners Red Cross on blood donation camp DENTIFYING the dearth of Iurgent blood for patients requiring transfusion in hospitals, a Non-Governmental Organisation, Sant Nirankari Mission, in conjunction with the Red Cross Society of Nigeria, recently held its yearly Blood Donation Camp in Lagos. The blood donation camp organised by the Sant Nirikari Mission, which is the fifth edition to be supervised by The Red Cross Society of Nigeria, witnessed large turnout of volunteers, who came in large numbers with the sole aim of helping to ease the plight of

patients in desperate need of blood. The Coordinator of the NGO in Nigeria, Brig. Praveen Kapur (rtd.), said “Over the years, we watched with keen attention the loss of lives at an alarming rate, mostly due to the nonavailability of blood for victims who needed urgent transfusion. “This became very worrisome for us, making it pertinent that we get involved to save lives through this effort which started five years ago. As far as Nigeria is concerned, this is the fifth year in succession that we are organising the blood dona-

tion camp. We’ve had very encouraging responses in the past and we hope to continue next year”. Praveen continued, “Today, both Indian and Nigerian doctor’s volunteer freely to this course helping us attend to donors and also most importantly certifying if blood being donated is suitable for transfusion and also on hand just in case anyone falls ill”. The Red Cross Co-ordinator Mr. Eka Solomon, said many patients who could have ordinarily been saved have died because of the unavailability of it.

Lady pharmacists want sex education for pupils From Abiodun Fagbemi, Ilorin HE Chairperson of T Association of Lady Pharmacists of Nigeria (ALPN) Kwara state chapter Susan Ayetoro has described sex education among students of post primary school in Nigeria as necessary for the growth of health sector in the country. Ayetoro, who decried alleged inadequate knowledge of drugs among Nigerian youths, warned that the aspect if left unattended to could hinder the health system of the nation and its people.

She spoke yesterday during an enlightenment campaign for the students of Cherubim and Seraphim Secondary School, Ilorin, Kwara state capital. The programme entitled, ‘Drug Abuse and Misuse: Basic Concept’ was organised by the local ALPN. The ALPN is an arm of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, (PSN) with the vision to enlighten members of the public more about pharmacy as a profession and to encourage the qualified Nigerian youth on the need to make it a career choice.

She said, “we need to catch them young in Nigeria if we are to effect any meaningful change in our nation. Our youth don’t know more about drugs; they don’t even know the inherent dangers in drug abuse. So apart from donating drugs to them and well equipped First Aid Boxes, we equally embark on enlightenment campaigns especially among our post primary students.” Already, the ALPN has organised over 10 symposia across 10 post primary schools in the state.

Topics such as: ‘what is drug?’, ‘Drug classification’, ‘Drug Misuse’, ‘Drug Abuse’, ‘Drugs of Abuse’, ‘Consequences of Drug Abuse and Misuse’, had in the past been treated by the pharmacists in the state. She added, “serious health hazards such as cancer, organ damage from overdose, psychosis from psychoactive drugs and various heath diseases may result from drug abuse and misuse. Besides, it can lead to treatment failure and worsened disease condition.”

including their virulence and levels of drug resistance, to ultimately improve treatment and control of the disease, according to new research funded by the Wellcome Trust and the National Institutes of Health. The findings are revealed in a study by researchers at the Texas Biomedical Research Institute and published in the journal Genome Research. Malaria infections commonly contain complex mixtures of Plasmodium parasites which cause the disease. These mixtures, known as multiple genotype infections (MGI’s), can alter the impact of the infection due to parasites competing with one another and can drive the spread of drug resistance. MGI’s are extremely common in regions with high levels of malaria infection but their biology is poorly understood. “Up to 70 per cent of infections in sub-Saharan Africa are MGI’s and we currently don’t know how many genotypes are present and whether parasites come from a single mosquito bite or multiple mosquito bites” says Shalini Nair, first author on the paper. Also, an implantable device that reduces blood pressure by sending electrical signals to the brain has been created by a group of researchers in Germany. The device has successfully reduced the blood pressure in rats by 40 per cent without any major side effects, and could offer hope for a significant proportion of patients worldwide who do not respond to existing medical treatment for the con-

dition. The first results have been published May 9, in IOP Publishing’s Journal of Neural Engineering. The device consists of 24 individual electrodes that are integrated into a micro-machined cuff. It is designed to wrap around the vagal nerve, which extends from the brainstem to the thorax and abdomen, supplying and stimulating various major organs including the heart and major blood vessels. The device works by picking up signals from specific sensors, known as baroreceptors, which are activated when blood vessels stretch. Some baroreceptors are grouped together in concentrated areas in the aortic arch and report their information to the brainstem via fibres in the vagal nerve. These baroreceptors function to control short-term fluctuations in blood pressure. The device has been designed to identify only those fibres that influence the blood pressure and avoid those that are responsible for heart rate, the power of heart beat, ventilation and other vital functions. Meanwhile, current genome sequencing techniques involve the chemical disintegration of samples of red blood cells from infected patients to obtain parasite DNA, which are then sequenced. This grouped sequencing cannot account for variations between individual parasites found in cells. Single cell genomics allows the separation and isolation of cells to extract and sequence individual parasite DNA and determine any differences between the parasites within an infection.

Exposing newborn babies to germs reduces asthma risk XPOSING newborn babies to E germs could help prevent asthma as they grow up, research suggests. The findings bolster the theory that modern obsession with hygiene and cleanliness has driven a boom in allergies and health problems. According to the ‘hygiene hypothesis’, exposure to bacteria is necessary to prime the immune system early in life. Many scientists believe that modern society, with its mania for sanitation and easy access to antibiotics, makes children hypersensitive to harmless allergens. The latest work, published last night in the journal Nature Medicine, may lead to bacterial treatments in which germs are intentionally fed to infants. The scientists found that when newborn mice were exposed to allergens they were better able to ward off asthma. Other studies have already shown that airway exposure to bacteria can be effective at controlling allergy-driven airway inflammation in adult mice, the scientists said. The team, led by Dr Benjamin Marsland, from the University of Lausanne in Switzerland, wrote: ‘Our current study indicates that such treatments could be greatly optimised by targeting the narrow developmental window that exists following birth, or by targeting specific molecules. ‘A key future step will be to translate these findings to human infants.’ More than five

million people in the UK are undergoing treatment for asthma, including 1.1 million children. Around 1,250 Britons die from asthma every year and mortality rate is the third highest in Europe, behind only Estonia and Spain. The hygiene hypothesis: We are too clean The latest figures, released last week, show that the numbers have been steadily rising since 2009 when there were 1,140 deaths. Asthma attacks are caused by an over-strong inflammatory immune response to allergy triggers such as house dust mites, pets or air pollutants. The study showed that newborn mice were vulnerable to inflammation in the lungs when exposed to allergens. But when their lungs were colonised by microbes, they developed immune cells that are anti-inflammatory and can suppress asthma. The regulatory T cells kept the immune system in check and suppressed the inflammation. Keeping mice in sterile conditions to prevent this colonisation rendered them sensitive to bugs and resulted in asthma as adults. Interaction with a protein called PD-L1 was vital to the development of these cells, the researchers found. When PD-L1 was blocked, it had the same effect as keeping out the microbes - an exaggerated response to allergy triggers that persisted into adulthood.

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WHO, partners urge nations to raise taxes on tobacco To prevent epidemic in Africa By Chukwuma Muanya HEAD of the World No Tobacco Day, May 31, 2014, the Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS) in collaboration with the Network of African Science Academies (NASA) has launched a report on how to prevent tobacco epidemic in the continent. The report, which was launched last week in Lagos is titled “Preventing a Tobacco Epidemic in Africa: A Call for Effective Action to Support Health, Social, and Economic Development.” The report, put together by committee of experts convened, last year, by the NASA to discuss the evidence, obstacles, and opportunities for implementing and enforcing tobacco use prevention and control policies in Africa. The report, according to the Executive Secretary of NAS, Dr. M. Oladoyin Odubanjo, presents the committee’s evidencebased recommendations for tobacco control in Africa. It outlines strategies that should place tobacco control policy on the African leadership agenda, and also calls upon other groups, such as civil society organizations, to share in the responsibility of protecting those most vulnerable to misleading and deceitful messaging by the tobacco industry. The committee, consisting of 16 experts drawn from eight countries in Africa, met for three days in Kampala, Uganda, with funding administered by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids. Each distinguished committee member was selected for his or her indepth tobacco-specific knowledge in areas including agriculture, policy, economics, social science, health, and the environment. The committee reviewed and assessed the evidence on the state of tobacco use and tobacco production and their detrimental health, economic, and environmental effects in Africa. The committee also reviewed efforts currently under way to prevent and control tobacco use, including the status of adoption and ratifica-

tion of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). Based on this evidence, the committee reached consensus on actions that African leaders and other stakeholders should take to combat this growing threat. Also, as part of efforts to prevent global tobacco epidemic that kills nearly six million people each year, of which more than 600 000 are non-smokers dying from breathing secondhand smoke, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and partners have called on countries to raise taxes on tobacco. According to the WHO, “unless we act, the epidemic will kill more than 8 million people every year by 2030. More than 80 per cent of these preventable deaths will be among people living in low-and middle-income countries.” A statement by WHO reads: “Under the WHO FCTC, countries should implement tax and price policies on tobacco products as a way to reduce tobacco consumption. “Research shows that higher taxes are especially effective in reducing tobacco use among lower-income groups and in preventing young people from starting to smoke. A tax increase that increases tobacco prices by 10 per cent decreases tobacco consumption by about four per cent in high-income countries and by up to eight per cent in most low- and middleincome countries. “Furthermore, increasing excise taxes on tobacco is considered to be the most costeffective tobacco control measure. The World Health Report 2010 indicated that a 50 per cent increase in tobacco excise taxes would generate a little more than US$ 1.4 billion in additional funds in 22 lowincome countries. If allocated to health, government health spending in these countries could increase by up to 50 per cent.” According to the WHO, the ultimate goal of World No Tobacco Day is to contribute to protecting present and future generations not only from the

Regional Consultant United States Pharmacopeia, Dr. Chimezie Anyakora; Director, Advanta Labs, Ope Odusan; President, Institute of Public Analysts of Nigeria (IPAN); Dr. Dahiru Adamu; Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Loladson Limited, Dr. Lola Fashina; Director Hydrochrom Resources Ltd, Samuel Thomas during the recent IPAN workshop in Asaba, Delta State devastating health consequences due to tobacco, but also from the social, environmental and economic scourges of tobacco use and exposure to tobacco smoke. Specific goals of the 2014 campaign are that: governments increase taxes on tobacco to levels that reduce tobacco consumption; and individuals and civil society organizations encourage their governments to increase taxes on tobacco to levels that reduce consumption. Every year, on 31 May, WHO and partners everywhere mark World No Tobacco Day, highlighting the health risks associated with tobacco use and advocating for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption. Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of death globally and is currently responsible for 10 per cent of adult deaths worldwide. Meanwhile, after considering the evidence, the NASA committee recommends: To reduce the current and future

health impacts of tobacco use, African governments should provide human and financial resources for tobacco prevention and control programmes. Governments should consider adopting innovative models that have been successful in other countries. Governments should also encourage external development partners to support their plans. Legislative platforms should augment these efforts. In particular, governments should prioritize the implementation and enforcement of the following measures in accordance with the FCTC: • adopt effective legislative or other legal measures to protect public health policies related to tobacco control from commercial and other vested interests; • effective use of taxation measures, including reform of tax structures if necessary and regular tax increases that actually increase the price of tobacco products so as to reduce demand; • protection from exposure to

LCCI, NHIS others move to address challenges with scheme By Femi Adekoya ITH only 2.8 per cent of the Nigerian population still covered under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), stakeholders have advocated innovative methods of financing if the objectives of the scheme would be attained. Specifically, the stakeholders noted that the country needs at least N1.9 trillion yearly to address the financing gap in the nation’s health insurance scheme. Besides, key challenges of low level of awareness among individuals and corporate users and well as the lingering problem of mistrust among Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) and hospitals have been identified as major bottlenecks hindering the progress of the scheme in the country. Speaking at the health insurance conference themed: “Penetration of the National Health Insurance Scheme in

Only 2.8% of Nigerians covered Nigeria” organized by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and NHIS in Lagos on Tuesday, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of NHIS, Dr. Olufemi Thomas explained that access to healthcare services must be enhanced if the country’s social capital and economic well-being would improve. Thomas said that though the scheme was working assiduously to address the health seeking challenges of the vulnerable groups in the society, which are those who do not have the financial ability to contribute to any prepayment plans, there is a need for support from other stakeholders through the pooling of resources. He noted that Nigeria has a very huge informal sector, with over 70 per cent of the nation’s population falling in

this bracket, which according to him, necessitates the need to develop and implement strategies for ensuring that all Nigerians enjoy access to effective health care, without constraints of physical and financial barriers. He however warned that the objectives of the scheme could only be achieved if focus and energy are accorded coverage of the informal sector, particularly at the community level. Thomas said this informs the determination of the scheme to scale up community health insurance activities across the country, in tandem with government’s resolve to boost human capital development, welfare of the people and economic growth of the nation. He however appealed to state and local governments to embrace the formal sector programme of the scheme,

thereby building the platform for improving the quality of life of their workforce. The President, LCCI, Remi Bello emphasized the need for government to enhance the physical well-being of citizens if the economic profile of the country would improve. Director of Research and Advocacy, LCCI, Vincent Nwani while presenting the findings from the health insurance survey organized by the chamber, disclosed that the level of awareness among users of the scheme remains low and should be addressed if coverage would be enhanced. “Although aggregate awareness of the scheme is improving, there is a need for health service providers to improve travel time, waiting time and treatment time. Also, relationship between HMOs and healthcare service providers needs to be enhanced to drive the scheme”, Nwani added.

tobacco second hand smoke in all public places including indoor workplaces, public transport; • comprehensive bans on all tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship; • accurate and visible tobacco product packaging and labeling that includes health warnings and labels; • integration of information on the ill effects of tobacco into the curricula of health promotion in primary and secondary schools to promote greater awareness of such information; • programs that provide economically viable alternatives for tobacco farmers and farm workers, which may be integrated with existing programs where possible; and • measures to protect the environment and the health of persons in relation to the environment with respect to tobacco cultivation and manufacture.

The NASA Report reads: “Given that its recommendations are based on the best available evidence on tobacco use, prevention, and control in Africa and were reached through consensus and rigorous science academy processes, the committee hopes that this report will, in some way, contribute to the prioritization of tobacco use, prevention, and control on the agenda of the African Union (AU).”

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‘There’s need to amend NHIS Act’ Abimbola Banjoko,Managing Director of Capex Expatcarehealth Limited, a health maintenance organization, active in National Health Insurance Scheme, says it has become imperative for the Federal Government to make the scheme compulsory for Nigerians and all sectors of the economy as it did for the national pension scheme. Banjoko therefore, calls for amendment of the NHIS Act in this interview with EMEKA NWACHUKWU. Excerpts: ROGRESS made by the NHIS PMany have lost their lives due to their inability to meet their health needs. Statistics have shown that about 70 per cent of Nigerians pay out of pocket for their healthcare needs, a situation, many countries in advanced world have eliminated through healthcare financing. This is the reason the Federal Government enacted the NHIS Act in 1999. However, there is the perception that the scheme covers only a few percentage of the nation’s population, which are the Federal Government workers and its implementation was largely urban-based. However, progress made by the scheme since inception has been reasonable and steady in the right direction because the way health insurance operates in the world is peculiar to its environment. The little over 10 per cent per cent coverage achieved so far is still okay if you analyze the NHIS enabling law, which did not make it compulsory for the general public. NHIS was never placed on the concurrent list to make it compulsory for states and local governments; the law did not make it compulsory for the private and a section of the public sector. The shortcoming of the NHIS 1999 Act, which placed on the Federal Government the sole responsibility of funding of the scheme without equal participation of the other tiers of governments, state and local government, is the reason why the scheme took off on a faulty start. A sizable population was therefore, not under compulsion to subscribe to the NHIS. Therefore, the health maintenance organizations (HMOs) had to come in to woo this large uncovered section of the populace into the NHIS web. This is why you have a more serious uptake under the national pension scheme because it was made compulsory for all and sundry, whereas under the NHIS, it is not compulsory. Is NHIS a success? No doubt, establishment of a health insurance scheme has become imperative. All over

the world, the establishment of a health insurance scheme has continued to tackle out-ofpocket payment by enrollees. But an overview of the scheme by researchers at the Nigerian Institute of Social and Economic Research indicated that some of its aspects still need improvement. The study, published in the institute’s policy brief, assessed the impact of the implementation of the NHIS on the health status of Nigerians, using Federal Government workers as a case study. Effectiveness was based on the extent of availability, accessibility and affordability, as well as quality of health care facilities and services provided, while its impact was based on enrollees’ current perception of changes to their health status, compared to the period before the scheme. Overall results indicate overwhelming acceptance of the scheme by enrollees as making significant positive impact on their health status compared to the period before the scheme, alluding to reduced cost and improved access to quality health care services as the key defining factors. NHIS acceptance by the private sector Well, it has been gradual and slow. Even though the health insurance scheme as it is provides cover for over 90 per cent of killer diseases of Nigerians, however close to 100 per cent health coverage could only be achieved when health insurance is made compulsory for all Nigerians and it is a community-based scheme. The need for Nigerians, and not just government workers to subscribe to NHIS has become imperative. As the cost of accessing health care in the country remains continually on the increase, it becomes necessary for people to subscribe to health insurance, in order to maintain access to preventive and emergency health care and afford treatment. Therefore, the success of the scheme can only be achieved with the unalloyed participation of the formal sector and organized private sector from

where a direct contributory fund can be easily pulled in addition government funding to make health insurance stand on good footing. Funding and health insurance penetration It is common knowledge that sub-Saharan Africa in general and Nigeria in particular is in dire need of a robust healthcare delivery system. Nigeria specifically has the highest population growth rate in West Africa. The latest population figures stand at about 160million people, about 25 per cent of the sub Saharan population. Therefore, for Nigeria’s health insurance scheme to achieve full coverage of its citizens there is need for the nation to take a few bold steps, one of which is the speedy amendment of the NHIS Act. Care givers or health providers’ performance With some degree of foresight, the current NHIS DG has realized that communitybased health insurance scheme was the next way to go because it is all encompassing, irrespective of a persons, age, socio-economic class or gender. In the real sense of it, especially in Nigeria, the future of NHIS depends on increased enrollees in the health insurance scheme, who are in the community and to ensure sense of ownership and continuity of the scheme, great attention should focus on the community. The community health care scheme should be built up in such a way that the counterpart funds should be remitted to the community, where the disease abound and that is where the deaths are taking place and it will remove the bureaucracy. Even there are also programmes for the disabled; prisoners, mentally disadvantageous people and the elderly. This is notwithstanding complaints of enrollees about the fact that caregivers often fail the people by always embarking on strike at the slightest provocation by their employers. However, there have been calls for responsible clinical governance in the system so that everyone understands their contractual agreement

at all times. How health maintenance organizations (HMOs) have fared Though investment in HMOs is risky, they have managed to keep their heads above water. The HMOs took a gamble to go into the health insurance scheme and all those who pioneered it are still trudging on, especially as it involves a lot of investments and risks, because return on health insurance investment is low. Many HMOs needed adequate capitalization and this has been a challenge. Many have therefore had to shore up their capital. Also, lack of manpower and enrollees uptake has also been problems besetting HMOs. IT infrastructural problem is being solved by the NHIS. In this, I give kudos to the present Director General who is spearheading cutting edge technology because without adequate tech, you cannot reach the critical mass of the people of Nigeria. You need to have accurate data on people who are capable of subscribing to the scheme. It was technology that India employed to ensure the success of the scheme in that country. NHIS DG is pushing this idea to assist everybody; Health Providers, HMOs and other stakeholders. It would be a veritable database to plan, source for funds. From there you can do analysis of morbidity and others. For HMOs, every Nigerian deserves good and affordable health care plan. Therefore, an HMO must strive to provide every Nigerian with the plan that works for him or her.

Banjoko

How frequent argument increases middle-aged death risk LL of us have engaged in A arguments with others in the past, whether it is with partners, relatives, friends or neighbors. Although these experiences are stressful, we do not necessarily think about the health risks they pose. But a new study suggests that frequent arguing may dramatically increase the risk of middle-aged death. According to the research team, led by Dr. Rikke Lund of the University of Copenhagen in Denmark, past research has indicated that good social relationships with others have positive effects on general health and well-being. But they say there are limited studies looking at how negative relationships impact health. With this in mind, the investigators set out to determine whether there was a link between stressful social relations with partners, children, other family members, friends and neighbors, and all-cause mortality. For their study, published in the Journal of Epidemiology &

Couple’s love life may be tainted even 20 years later by early depression, anger University of Alberta study A is helping crack the code to happiness by exploring the long reach of depression and anger over more than two decades. The study, published recently in the Journal of Family Psychology, followed 341 people for 25 years, and found that negative emotions they may have suffered as young adults can have a lasting grip on their couple relationships, well into middle age. The fact that depression and anger experienced during the teen years clung to people, even through major life events such as child-rearing, marriages and careers was surprising, said University of Alberta researcher Matthew Johnson. “We assume or hope that high school experiences fade away and don’t necessarily resonate 25 years later. The fact that symptoms of depression and expressions of anger can endure over many large events in life shows how

important it is to deal with mental health early. Sometimes, problems don’t just dissipate. How you grow and change over those early years becomes crucial to future happiness,” said Johnson, an assistant professor of human ecology in the Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences. The research, drawn from a larger study begun in 1985, surveyed 178 women and 163 men through their transition to adulthood from age 18 to 25, again on their perceived stress levels at age 32, and on the quality of their intimate relationships at age 43, to find out whether anger or depression they may have felt as young adults was still affecting those bonds. Findings point to the importance of recognizing that early mental health does influence couple relationships and that in turn, can have social costs later on, such as divorce and domestic violence.

Snacking contributes to fatty liver, abdominal obesity ESEARCHERS from The R Netherlands found that snacking on high-fat and high-

Deputy Director, Compliance Monitoring and Enforcement Lagos State Safety Commission, Aderonke Odeneye (left),Director General /Chief Executive Officer (LSSC); Dominga Odebunmi and Director Technical Engineering Safety (LSSC);Engr.Tunde Liadi at a Press briefing recently held to commemorate year 2014 World Day Health and Safety at Workplace with Focus in Lagos Photo AYODELE ADENIRAN

Community Health, the team analyzed 9,875 men and women aged between 36 and 52 years who were a part of the Danish Longitudinal Study on Work, Unemployment and Health. All participants were questioned on their social relationships in everyday life. These questions focused on who made excess demands toward the participants, who caused worries or was a source of conflict and how often these situations arose. Using data from the Danish Cause of Death Registry, the researchers were able to track the health of the participants between 2000 and 2011. Frequent conflict ‘can triple the risk of all-cause mortality’ At the end of the study period, 196 women and 226 men had passed away. Approximately half of these deaths were a result of cancer, while the remaining deaths were caused by heart disease, stroke, liver disease, accidents and suicide.

sugar foods was independently associated with abdominal fat and fatty liver (hepatic steatosis). According to the study published in Hepatology, a journal of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, hypercaloric diet with frequent meals increases intrahepatic triglyceride content (IHTG) and fat around the waist, but increasing meal size did not. Obesity is a global health concern with the World Health Organization reporting that more than 200 million men and close to 300 million women were obese in 2008. In the U.S. the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that 36 per cent of adult Americans and 17 per cent of children in the country are obese. Studies link obesity to the accumulation of abdominal fat and fat in the liver, making non-alcoholic fatty liver dis-

ease (NAFLD) one of the most prevalent diseases of the liver. For the present study 36 lean men were randomized to a hypercaloric diet or a eucaloric control diet (balanced diet) for six weeks. Researchers measured IHTG and abdominal fat using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and insulin sensitivity before and after the diet. Those subjects on the hypercaloric diet ate 3 main meals along with additional calories from high fat and/or high sugar drinks, with or in between meals, to increase meal size or meal frequency. Results show that high calorie diets increased BMI. Eating more frequent meals significantly increased IHTG, while larger sized meals did not. Researchers found that belly fat increased in the high fat/high sugar frequency group and in the high sugar-frequency group. A decrease in liver insulin sensitivity was found in the high fat/high sugar-frequency group.

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NAFDAC gets backing from DFID, PATHS2 on WHO prequalification By Wole Oyebade NITED Kingdom’s U Department of International Development (DFID), through its’ implementing partners in the country, Partnership for Transforming Health Systems II (PATHS2), has pledged to support National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in its quest to upgrade standard and acquire WHO prequalification certification by December. The agency, at a workshop aimed at strengthening NAFDAC’s Central Drug Control Laboratory, Yaba, and surveillance systems, ahead of the prequalification, pledged the support in the areas of finance, human resources management and programme implementation. Senior Logistics and Health Commodities Advisor, PATHS2 Abuja, Vimal Kumar, said the support was in continuation of DFID’s years support for the regulatory agency, which might have cost the UK

agency about N500 million. He observed that NAFDAC had achieved some level of success thus far, as he stressed the need for improved quality assurance. According to him, “Quality starts suffering when we jettison the requisite principles. There is need to get NAFDAC to become duly certified by WHO. Failure is not an option as this would affect the future of the country,” Vimal said. Director-General of NAFDAC, Dr Paul Orhii, who applauded efforts of development partners like PATHS2, DFID and WHO in the agency’s drive towards WHO-prequalification, acknowledged that no system is foolproof, adding that passion, sincerity of purpose would drive the efforts towards attaining the desired goal. Orhii who was represented by Director of Human Resource Management, NAFDAC, Yetunde Oni recalled that the collaboration of the agency with DFID, WHO and PATHS2, to

strengthen the laboratory and surveillance systems started in 2005. The collaboration was in line with recommendations of the study on counterfeit and substandard medicines in Nigeria, conducted by NAFDAC in partnership with DFID and WHO in 2005. Some of the outcomes of the agency’s collaboration with the development partners, the NAFDAC boss stressed, had yielded fruits including the refurbishment of the agency’s drug lab in Yaba, Lagos, development of draft regulations on GMP, GLP, GCP, GDP and GPVP with support of DFID and WHO, capacity building towards the entrenchment of quality management system, among others. Orhii, however, urged the international partners to galvanise efforts aimed at assisting the NAFDAC to meet the December 15 deadline. NAFDAC Director of Laboratory Services, Stella Denloye, in her welcome address had noted that the

agency was working to ensure that it raises the bar of quality in its processes and systems. Quality check, she said, dated back to year 2000. “In 2004, WHO assessment of NAFDAC central lab showed some gaps and we stepped up efforts to address the grey areas. Between 2008, 2010-2011, PATHS2 tried to fill some of the gaps noticed. In 2012, another reassessment was done. In November 2013 NAFDAC became the first in Nigeria to attain IS01762. “It showed that we have now meet international requirements but this doesn’t mean we must rest on our oars. As a national medicine regulatory testing authority, one of our mandates is to ensure that we become one of the speed regulatory agencies, where we have about 44 countries classified as the low risks group, like Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, South Africa, Algeria, among others. But we have none in West Africa. So our target is to make Nigeria among these countries.”

Assistant Director, Sexual Prevention Unit, National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr Daniel Ndukwe, Chief Programme Officer, Prevention and Social Behaviour Change Communication NACA, Mrs Uduak Daniel, and NACA’s Chief Communication Officer, Mrs. Toyin Aderibigbe, during the National HIV Prevention Plan 2013-2015 Validation Meeting in Abuja... recently

Eczema may reduce skin cancer risk, study suggests CZEMA is one of the most vious studies have suggested The researchers then tested experimental model. They also common skin conditions, that eczema may reduce the risk two cancer-causing chemicals support the view that modifying E affecting up to 30 per cent of of skin cancer. in the genetically engineered the body’s immune system is an people in a population. Symptoms include dry, itchy skin and rashes. But according to new research, having eczema may not be all that bad; it could reduce the risk of skin cancer. In a study published in the journal eLife, researchers from King’s College London in the United Kingdom (UK) say that eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, activates an immune response that sheds potentially cancerous cells from the skin, preventing tumor formation. According to the research team, including Prof. Fiona Watt of the Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine at King’s College, pre-

However, they note that this association has proven difficult to confirm in human studies, as medication for eczema may influence cancer risk. Furthermore, symptoms of the condition vary in severity in each individual. For their study, the team genetically engineered mice to have skin defects commonly found in humans with eczema. Having eczema may not be all bad. According to new research, the common skin condition may reduce the risk of skin cancer. They did this by removing structural proteins in the outer layers of their skin, causing them to have an abnormal skin barrier.

mice, as well as in normal mice. They found that the number of benign tumors in defected mice was six times lower than the number found in the normal mice. Further investigation revealed that although both the defected and normal mice had equal susceptibility to mutations caused by the chemicals, the defected mice had an “exaggerated” inflammatory response that resulted in potentially cancerous cells being shed from the skin. Commenting on the study results, Prof. Watt says: “We are excited by our findings as they establish a clear link between cancer susceptibility and an allergic skin condition in our

important strategy in treating cancer. I hope our study provides some small consolation to eczema sufferers - that this uncomfortable skin condition may actually be beneficial in some circumstances.” Skin cancer is the sixth most common form of cancer in the US, affecting more than two million people every year. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, incidence rates of melanoma skin cancer - a form of the disease that begins in the skin and spreads to other organs in the body - have been increasing over the past 30 years. It is now estimated that 1 in 50 Americans will develop the cancer in their lifetime.

What is cancer? OR more than one year I culation is a function of the Fcancer. have not written about amount of water in the cirI wrote so much culation. When there is sufabout cancer in the past that a lot of people thought my practice was only cancer based. It is now obvious to all and sundry that several other medical conditions are managed by alternative medical practitioners, especially those of them referred to as chronic degenerative diseases. Be that as it may, in all these months that I have stayed away from writing about cancer, I have encountered patients, practitioners (orthodox, alternative and those of them that practice complimentary medicine) and care givers. The story out there is not very encouraging and like some practitioners have said, we are not winning the war. The most significant advancement made in places like America, is in the area diagnostic technology and not in treatment. A lot still has to be done in the area of treatment. The major problem with alternative medicine is ignorance and because of this people are perishing. Apart from practicing, it is one’s responsibility to create awareness, to let people know the positive impact that alternative medicine is making in the lives of certain individuals. Sometime in the very near future I intend to bring the testimonies of some of my patients who have done well with alternative medicine. Until then, we shall continue our effort in bringing knowledge of this disease to your attention. What is cancer? Cancer is a systemic disease with a regional manifestation. It is a four-letter word- ‘ACID’. It is the outcome of excessive acid accumulation in the body. GOD created the body and its systems to function optimally in an alkaline environment. However, in carrying out all their functions, the cells of the body, which are about 100 trillion, produce toxic and acidic wastes which get eliminated through certain excretory organs in the body. These wastes generated inside the cells pass through the cell membrane to the extracellular fluid compartment into the blood circulation from where they are transported to the organs of excretion. The rate of elimination of these wastes is determined by the speed of the blood circulation and the speed of the blood circulation is dependent on the fluidity of the blood. The fluidity of the blood in cir-

ficient water in the circulation, the blood is more fluid and the circulation moves faster and the wastes get eliminated faster. On the other hand, when there is less than enough water in the circulation, movement of blood, acidic wastes and carbon dioxide become slowed down and the wastes accumulate. Otherwise known as a state of dehydration, lack of sufficient water intake is the commonest cause of acidosis in the body. Not only do the wastes accumulate, nutrients, minerals and oxygen that should get to the cells are also delayed, worsening the state of acidosis. Another contributory factor to this acidity in the body is the type of food that we eat. This is mainly the cooked and overcooked carbohydrate based food, rendering them acidic and dead. In addition to this food, is the habit of drinking the sugar laden, carbonated beverages which are obviously acidic. Furthermore, the movement of faecal matter through the colon becomes slowed down because a lot of water is absorbed from the stools in the colon in a state of dehydration. This causes the passage of the stools through the colon to be severely slowed down, giving rise to what is known as constipation. A lot of bacterial activity, decaying and generation of acid go on when there is constipation. The colon is the single highest contributor of acid in the body and this acid is known to affect other organs such as the breast and the prostate. Lets look at the situation that has developed as a result of dehydration. Toxic acid wastes accumulate, there is low oxygen and high carbon dioxide in and around the cells with high concentration of glucose available for energy production. This is a most suitable condition for cancer cells to thrive. Cancer cells produce their energy by fermentation, a process that does not require oxygen. This is also known as anaerobic respiration, it would have been avoided if the individual was used to drinking sufficient water. Another type of waste generated during metabolic processes are free radicals. These cause damage to cells and their inner structures and can cause cancer. This shall be the topic of our discussion next week Thursday.

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Thursday, May 15, 2014

Education Confronting Africa’s challenges with educational partnerships By Eno-Abasi Sunday O-OPERATION between “C countries can be pursued on many levels, but often in Africa, that co-operation is left to governments alone. Meanwhile, there is an immense amount of knowledge resources essential to developmental activities that can be shared not just as ideas, but configured as models of intervention in various disciplines.” With this statement, former Defence Minister, Lt. Gen. Theophillus Danjuma, not only put in perspective or explained the reason why a handful of big wigs had gathered in a Lagos hotel penultimate week, but he also brought to the fore, what well-heeled individuals have failed to do to shore up the continent’s blessings, thereby leaving it as an orphan, which has had to run from pillar to post in search of solutions to her ever-mounting developmental problems. Being one not to run away from challenges, he characteristically moved to contribute his quota, yet again to the country and indeed the continent’s advancement. The retired General donated a whooping $5m as endowment fund for legal research in Africa. And at the event where the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (NIALS) and University of Cape Town (UCT), South Africa signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the management of the endowment fund, he took time to, among other things, x-ray the heavy price the continent has had to pay as a result of the mismanagement and maladministration of her scarce resources. The fund, which will be held and invested by UCT, is designed to create fellowships and scholarships for Nigeria postgraduate law students to study with South Africans and people all over the continent at the Centre for Comparative Law in Africa (CCLA), UCT, South Africa. Speaking at the launch, and on a day the Olu Akinkugbe Business Law in Africa Fellowship was also launched, Danjuma stressed that, “We cannot simply stand by and let others depict Africa in their own terms with all kinds of startling notions. Nor can we expect that every part of a vast continent such as ours will develop at the same pace or in a uniform fashion. We have to identify progressive initiatives beneficial to our society, where our input can be maximised and support in every way that we can.

Former Head of State, Chief Ernest Shonekan (left); Lt. General T.Y. Danjuma (rtd); Chief Olu Akinkugbe; Chief Chris Ogunbanjo; Vice Chancellor, University of Cape Town, Dr. Max Price and former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku at the Launching of TY Danjuma fund for Law and Policy Development in Africa and Olu Akinkugbe Business Law in Africa Fellowship organised by University of Cape Town (UCT) and Nigeria Academic Partnership Endowments in Lagos…recently

• T. Y. Danjuma donates $5m endowment fund for legal research in Africa • Olu Akinkugbe launches Business Law in Africa Fellowships “Over the years, both prior to and following independence, there have been major steps forward in African countries, but also regressive steps that have come with maladministration and mismanagement of public resources. While we cannot change the past, we can learn many lessons from it. One of many clear lessons is that we cannot allow our tertiary education system, which should be the engine room of developmental innovation, to be starved of practical and strategic support and expect that our various countries and the continent will advance. Many African countries have proven the folly of such neglect and are now exploring ways of getting the tertiary education sector back on its feet,” the retired military chief stated. He continued, “Today, global connectivity means that knowledge is growing and changing by the day. Increased movement across borders, both geographical and in cyber space makes it easier to misappropriate innovations from the developing world, with no acknowledgement of the often unsung innovator and little or no direct benefit to the environment where such innovation was generated. Global connectivity also means that Africa is under pressure to operate at an internationally acceptable level in various areas while numerous challenges remain at the local level. “In dealing with these challenges”, Danjuma stated,

“we need home-grown research by institutions in other countries on the continent grappling with similar issues. It makes sense as a starting point, to create channels for connecting institutions across the continent with identified sites of research expertise and academic excellence on the continent. Constructed on the right parameters, such partnerships merit support.” He added further that, “In dealing with these challenges, we need homegrown researches by institutions located in African countries and supported by collaborative research with institutions in other countries on the continent grappling with similar issues.” “The concept of the T.Y Danjuma Fund for Law and Policy Development in Africa,” the former Defense Minister stated, “derives from the need to promote channels and platforms for carrying out developmentfriendly researches, dissemination of research findings and capacity building interventions in a way that pulls together, expertise from various African countries. The

expectation is that these initiatives will generate a critical body of homegrown workable African solutions to address complex challenges confronting the continent.” Danjuma expressed the hope that numerous Nigerian and African institutions will benefit from the opportunity and in return give back from their expertise and skills to the development of the country and the continent. Before now, Gen. Danjuma through his TY Danjuma Foundation has displayed immense philanthropic gestures and remains committed to enhancing the quality of life of Nigerians and indeed Africans by supporting initiatives that improve access to health and educational opportunities. The foundation founded in 2008 by the soldier, businessman and politician with an initial take-off grant of $100m, has worked assiduously towards building a Nigeria, where all citizens have access to quality healthcare, education and equal opportunities to realise their potentials. The foundation works

mainly through Non G o v e r n m e n t a l Organisations (NGOs) and community-based groups in the country, and its strategy of working through partnerships is intended to build institutional capacity of groups, supporting innovation and ensuring that the funding provided meets the needs of the target beneficiaries and is culturally relevant. In doing so, the foundation encourages its grantees to forge collaborations and partnerships with local, state and federal government agencies to enhance sustainability of the projects. For instance, in 2012, the foundation awarded over 19 main grants and eight discretionary grants including the provision of relief materials to displaced victims of floods in Kogi and Edo states. Also between 2012 and 2013, the foundation awarded 30 grants under the Community Fund Project such as the establishment of an oil palm processing mill in Edo State, to provide alternative income for the women and youths and provision of free eye care programme in Taraba State among others. In the area of education, on

We cannot simply stand by and let others depict Africa in their own terms with all kinds of startling notions. Nor can we expect that every part of a vast continent such as ours will develop at the same pace or in a uniform fashion. We have to identify progressive initiatives beneficial to our society, where our input can be maximised and support in every way that we can.

March 3, 2013, Danjuma gave out N2. 2b to the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, Kaduna State at the launch of the university’s N50b Phase 1 Development Project. This was just about a month after he donated N250m to Bayero University Kano (BUK) in support of the institution’s development drive. The foundation’s Afterschool Graduate Development Centre (AGDC), recently concluded the Work Place Intelligent Nigeria Graduate (WING), a three-week intensive programme in which over 100 final–year students of the University of Benin, Benin City, were engaged with the sole purpose of building their capacity and sharpening their preparedness for the work place. While also launching the Olu Akinkugbe Business Law in Africa Fellowship, pharmacist and businessman who owns diverse groups of business ventures, Chief Oludolapo Akinkugbe said: “The concept of “co-development” is what we must pursue for sustained mutual growth in Africa.” The fellowship, which will also be situated at the CCLA, UCT, will have two fellows from African universities every year- one of which is expected to come from a Nigerian institution- carry out research in UCT. According to Akinkugbe, “For too long, we have talked about potentials; we are at a stage where we should be talking of actuals. Now that we are think-

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48 Thursday, May 15, 2014 EDUCATION

Ekiti approves special allowance for teachers, abolishes competence test From Muyiwa Adeyemi (Head, South West Bureau Ado Ekiti) KITI State government has E announced that it would soon commence payment of 27.5 per cent pecuniary allowance to teachers in the state. Governor Kayode Fayemi announced the readiness of his government to effect payment of the improved allowance while addressing teachers at a sensitisation programme on the State Education Programme Investment Project (SEPIP) in Ado Ekiti. The administration currently pays 16 per cent of the allowance. Fayemi also announced the abolishment of the Teachers Development Need Assessment (TDNA), replacing it with capacity building programmes and administration of questionnaires to students. These developments are coming barely two months after the state commenced payment of car loans to primary school teachers in the state. Fayemi at the forum directed his deputy, Prof. Modupe Adelabu, to liaise with the leadership of the various teachers’ unions on the prompt implementation of the allowance. “I want to thank all the teach-

ers for their understanding in accepting the negotiated 16 per cent allowance. In our various meetings, they were made to appreciate the lean resources of the state, and they saw our genuine willingness to meet their demands if we had the capacity to do so. I am happy to inform you that you will now have the remaining 11.5 per cent,” Fayemi stated. On the abolishment of the competence test, Fayemi hinted that the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology would embark on capacity building for teachers through cluster school training programmes, local and overseas training, seminars and workshops. Fayemi stated that the committee on the advancement of graduate teachers in public primary schools, had recommended a parallel career scheme as obtained in the civil service so as to enable National Certificate in Education (NCE) and degree holders have different career progression. The governor, who denied that his administration was compiling names of some civil servants for sack, presented an 18-seater bus to the state chapter of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT).

Speaking on behalf of the teachers, Chairman of NUT, Mr. Kayode Akosile, commended the governor for accepting to implement the 27.5 per cent pecuniary

allowance despite the meagre resources that accrues to the state. Akosile who thanked Fayemi for fulfilling the promises he

made to teachers including the provision of the vehicle and upgrading the status of teachers from Grade Level 16 to 17, assured that Ekiti teachers were solidly in support of his

re-election. Akosile added that Ekiti teachers have not had it so good since the creation of the State and so would stand by the governor.

Head of Department of Pharmacology, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Dr. Mohammed Suleiman (left), Vice Chancellor of the institution, Prof Abdullahi Mustapha, President, African Education Initiative’s (AEI), Prof Chudy Nduaka and his liaison officer, Dr. Awasun, during AEI’s courtesy call on the vice chancellor, following Nduaka’s recent appointment as professor of Pharmacology in Zaria.

VC justifies Nigeria’s choice for cassava project ICE-Chancellor of the V University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB) and President, Association of African Universities (AAU), Professor Olusola Oyewole had observed that the institution was very experienced in managing and participating in large, multi-country research and development projects, such as C:AVA I and C:AVA II. The Vice-Chancellor, who spoke during the Project Launch and Business Meeting of the Cassava: Adding Value to Africa II Project (C: AVA II), held recently in Lagos, also acknowledged that “the choice of Nigeria and a Nigerian institution to coordinate the C:AVA II Project had been made easy by the recognition of the effort our country had made in the last few years of transforming our Agriculture, through the Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA), and the relentless positioning of Nigeria’s Agriculture in the right perspective by our Minister, Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina.” He described FUNAAB’s work in the cassava sector as historical, noting that the University had worked in partnership with several world-leading institutions. Adesina, while launching the project, described the cassava industry as wealth and job creator, that could turn around the economy of the country. The Minister, who was represented by his Senior Technical Assistant, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Adetunji, also stated that the Cassava Transformation Agenda (CTA), which his Ministry

developed, was aimed at commercialising the cassava industry in five different value-chains, in order to bring the glory of cassava up to the global competitive level. The Minister described Nigeria as the largest producer of cassava in the world, with an annual production of 40 million metric tonnes, representing 19 per cent of the world’s production. According to him, being the leading producer, it is expected that the country’s cassava industry alone would generate an estimated 1.3 million jobs among Nigerians, while it is envisaged that the number would increase. He stated that the major feature of the CTA was the production of High Quality Cassava Flour

(HQCF), aimed at promoting the Cassava Bread value-chain, that would reduce the annual import bill being incurred on wheat and encourage local production of cassava flour. Meanwhile, the vice chancellor has also reiterated the University Management’s commitment to promoting the welfare of members of staff. He gave the assurance during the just-concluded training workshop on Capacity Building on Investment of Pension Fund and Returns of Investment Portfolio, under the old pension scheme, held for the Pension Board of Trustees of FUNAAB, in Badagry, Lagos. He said: “Our University has continued to pay monthly pension to our pensioners on a regular basis, as pensions are

taken to various banks on or before 21st of each month. The University is also up-to-date in the payment of various upward reviews of pension by the Federal Government to all our pensioners.” He recalled that in the past years, the University had held series of workshops for would-be retirees of the institution, on how to set up and manage businesses, saying that available statistics showed that such efforts had yielded tremendous results in the life of retirees. Oyewole, however, encouraged participants at the workshop to obtain information about opportunities on how best to invest their funds. The Vice-Chancellor was represented at the occasion by the

Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Development, Professor Felix Salako. In a paper titled, Financial Management in the Nigerian Business Climate, the Chief Executive Officer, Financial Derivatives Company, Limited, Mr. Bismarck Rewanehe described financial management as the efficient and effective usage of an organisation’s financial resources in such a manner that would accomplish its business objectives by maximizing value. Mr. Oluwasegun Oye of Alicorn Consulting Limited presented a paper titled, Returns on Investment and Risk Analysis: Theory and Practice, describing risk management function as the provision of an

LEAP Africa to train entrepreneurs at CEO’s forum HE ninth forum for busi- efforts to working with vision- with the aim of promoting “Technology is critical to long T ness owners at the behest ary youth, business owners business sustainability. term sustainability of any of Leadership, Effectiveness, and social entrepreneurs. This year’s forum will feature business. Given Nigeria’s Accountability and Professionalism (LEAP) Africa, a nonprofit organisation devoted to equipping business leaders holds today at the City Hall, Catholic Mission Street, Lagos Island by 9: 00 am. The organisation has organised series of training programmes for Nigerian undergraduates with a view to bettering their lot and radically improving their entrepreneurial skills in order to add value to their education. Since being established in 2002, it has remained committed to developing dynamic, innovative and principled African leaders, dedicated its

It has also empowered and equipped its beneficiaries to lead ethically while implementing positive change projects that transform their communities and organisations, thereby sustaining livelihoods and contributing to national development. With the theme, “Leveraging Technology for SME Growth,” the chief executive officers (CEOs’) forum is LEAP Africa’s annual gathering of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs). It serves as a unique platform for entrepreneurs, CEOs and managers in the public and private sectors to interact and share insights on critical strategies and tools

technology experts and experienced entrepreneurs, who apart from dwelling on the theme will also be exploring the use of technology in business operations, publicity, marketing and information management. A survey of SMEs reveals that perceived high cost and lack of understanding of technology are top two reasons for low adoption of technology by businesses. However, affordable technologies are now available to small businesses, which if wielded effectively, can improve processes, increase manpower productivity, optimise profits and support sustainability.

growing population of internet users estimated at about 50 million, 70 per cent of which are accessing the Internet through their mobile phones, online transactions for example, presents a winwin. They offer transparency and convenience to buyers, while minimising brick-andmortar costs and globalising local markets for sellers. One major challenge is explaining technology to business people in a way they understand. The panel of speakers at this forum will be presenting businesses owners with tips and strategies they can adopt immediately to move their businesses forward,” said

objective and independent measurement of risk portfolio within an investment mandate. Delivering a paper titled, Budgeting and Fund Administration in Business Development, the Head, Department of Management and Accounting, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Professor Taiwo Asaolu, observed that it was a fundamental duty of the Pension Board to administer funds solely in the interest of beneficiaries, adding that the goal of the Board was to generate returns, taking into account, the fund’s liabilities, liquidity needs and risk tolerance of members.

LEAP Africa’s Executive Director, Iyadunni Olubode. Speakers at the forum include Chairman; Mindshare Advertising Agency, Dr. Oscar Emokpae, Co-Founder Jumia; Mr. Tunde Kehinde; Managing Director (MD), Wild Fusion, Mr. Abasiama Idaresit; Head, Technology Insight Communications, Mr. Olusegun Martins; President & CEO Coure Technologies Inc, Mr. Uche Onwudiwe and MD & Chief Communications Officer, Booster Industries (Spain), Professor Balvinder Powar, who will all be sharing technical knowledge and personal experiences with a view to simplifying technology for small and medium sized business owners.

Thursday, May 15, 2014 EDUCATION 49

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‘Making teaching a last resort job compromises our future’ long as teachers’ remunerations remain unattractive, Ssion.ONigeria may never have the best brains in the teaching profesThis is the position of the Director General, National Mathematical Centre, Abuja, Professor Adewale Solarin, who recently clocked one year in office. He told BRIDGET CHIEDU ONOCHIE that if Nigerian teachers were continually relegated socially and economically, the nation would continue to witness brain drain in the academics. He also discussed the general problems associated with the teaching of mathematics, likely solutions, as well as his achievements in office so far. How would you appraise students’ attitude to mathematics? Definitely, there is an improvement, though as far as I am concerned, this is still not significant. The basic problem with the teaching of mathematics is fund. We discovered that at the end of our two-year programme in the states, we collaborated with one Mathematics Improvement Project, the percentage of those that passed the subject jumped from three or six per cent to about 70 per cent. Unfortunately, the fund did not go round all the schools. How can the teaching of mathematics be made more attractive? To encourage best brains in sciences to remain in the classroom, there is need for special incentives for them. But far beyond that, there should be something more for mathematics teachers. In developed countries, only the best brains are allowed to teach and they get a lot of privileges to the extent that people are struggling to be teachers. Over there, for instance, engineers do not get better pay than teachers. Even in some parts of Africa, mathematics teachers are better paid than engineers. It was like that before in Nigeria also and many of us settled for single subjects in education during our time because there was scholarship. If you are taking education or a single subject, there was full scholarship from the federal government then in the 1970’s and that encouraged the best brains to go for education courses. Such incentives encourage individuals to bring out their best. It is very unfortunate that we do not understand that it is the future of the country we are actually compromising, because teaching is neither an issue of curriculum nor that of content. Rather, it is the totality of the person standing in front of the class. The person must be totally motivated to be able to influence and impact on the children. Education is the totality of the child. So, the totality of the teacher is key. These days, however, education courses are for those who could not meet up with cutoff marks for medicine or engineering courses. To mark my 60th birthday, I chose to give back to my community by donating N1m for the renovation of the primary school I attended, because I know very well that the school contributed immensely to what I am today. I wish I could still locate some of the teachers. I would have done something really nice to appreciate them because they were like giants and they communicated knowledge when they taught us. Teaching should not be a last resort job or to mark time because if it continues that way, then our future is compromised. What are your dreams for mathematics education in Nigeria?

Solarin It’s unfortunate that Mathematics is where it is today in the country. But I believe that in the next few years, if we get the right environment, the issue of mathematics phobia would be a thing of the past. I still believe that a day is coming when Nigeria will be like Japan. In Japan and some other Asian countries, if you ask little children what their best subject is, they tell you it is mathematics.

What are your achievements during one year in office? It is amazing that one year is over and we are grateful to God for seeing us through it. We have recorded a number of successes. At the beginning of last year, we invited 56 unemployed mathematics graduates and trained them for three months. Every two weeks, they had examinations and at the end of it all, the best 20 were selected based on their performance for further training. The first three months was to try and refurbish their background on core areas we knew various universities had problems based on manpower problem. The top 20 were later introduced to topics on foundation post-graduate programme and at the end; we were able to secure scholarship for the 20 students. Right now, 12 of them are in Pakistan. One of them is on his way to Canada, while the rest are still processing their papers for the United States of America. We will keep doing it every year and that is one of our contributions in rejuvenating mathematics in the universities. Also, last year, we were able to organise the first knowledgebased activities, which put Nigeria in the Guinness World Record for organising the largest Mathematics class in the world. We also hosted the whole of Africa. It was an event that brought together all Mathematics experts. The event took about four years to plan and it cost a lot of money, but God helped us and we were able to put resources together and held the event. We hosted the Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad, which is the gathering of Mathematicians and where young talents in the area are discovered. The idea is to rejuvenate the academia in mathematical sciences. I must say that some of us got into the academics because we were interested. I had three appointments after finishing my Youth Service. When I got an appointment as a Graduate Assistant at the Obafemi Awolowo University, I accepted it because that was what I wanted. I joined the academia because I was interested even when I had other options. But since the inception of Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) from 1986 to about 1990, I can tell you that about 60 per cent of the people that came into the academia were not academic materials. They just came in because that was the only job option they had then. From the year 2000, more than 90 per cent are not academic materials. They graduate from the university, go for Masters and when there is an opening in the academia, they come in. They are mostly the ones that are very active in the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). That is where they get protected. What are your limitations? Chief among them is fund. There are so many things we want to do such as the newly introduced mental arithmetic programme. We also have quite a number of pilot programmes and the results are just fantastic. This is a programme that should be run in every primary school because the primary school child deserves to have access to that programme, but it costs about N2m to run it in a public school. Considering that we have more than 50,000 public primary schools in Nigeria, it is obvious that running the programme will be capital intensive.

VC wants govt to reexamine universities’ funding pattern By Ujunwa Atueyi HE Vice Chancellor of T University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof. Rahamon Bello, has called on the Federal Government to urgently reexamine the funding pattern of federal universities in the country as the present practice has failed to promote efficiency, proactiveness and best practices. While presenting a paper titled, “Funding of University Education in Nigeria: Trends, Challenges and New Directions,” at the second memorial lecture in honour of the late Prof. Adetokunbo Babatunde Sofoluwe, he said the problem of underfunding in tertiary institutions began taking roots sometime in 1975, which prompted the then federal government to set up various committees that would examine the situation. The lecture was organised by the University of Lagos Alumni Association. According to Bello, the 1978 Ogundeko Committee on University Financing; the 1981 Cookey Commission on Services of University Staff; the 1984 Fafunwa Committee on Education; and the 1991 Longe Commission on the review of Higher Education in Nigeria, all reported that there was a funding gap that needs to be closed to avoid deterioration of infrastruc-

tures in the nation’s ivory towers. “Unfortunately, none of these reports were given any special attention over the years and today, university education is currently very poorly funded in Nigeria and is yet to comply with the UNESCO recommendations, which stipulates that 26 per cent of the annual budget be spent on education. Nigeria spends only about 8.34 per cent of her annual budget on education. The Needs Assessment report vividly showed the rot in the system and this led to the last crisis between ASUU and the feder-

al government.” From Bello’s analysis, budgetary allocation to education has remained arbitrary and inconsistent. “In 1960 the allocation was 6.02per cent which later decreased to as low as 0.69 per cent in 1970. It rose to 7.2per cent in 1995 and steadily increased to 9.3 per cent in 2005 and later began a decline to 1.69 per cent in 2011. It was 10 per cent in 2012; 8.7per cent in 2013 and 10.63 per cent in 2014. “The result is that Nigeria has been spending on the average less than six per cent of its annual budget on education, which is small when

compared with other smaller African countries. Nigeria’s 10 per cent allocation is the lowest. For instance, Botswana’s budget for education stands at 19.0 per cent; Swaziland, 24.6 per cent; Lesotho 17.0 per cent; South Africa 25.8 per cent; Cote d’Ivoire, 30.0 per cent; Burkina Faso, 16.8 per cent; Ghana, 31 per cent; Kenya 23.0 per cent; Uganda 27.0 per cent; Tunisia 17.0 per cent; and Morocco 26.4 per cent.” “It can therefore be concluded that Nigeria gave the least to education both in absolute and relative terms, even though in terms of natural

and human resources, Nigeria remains the most endowed. The decline in the quality of education provision in Nigeria over the years can therefore be understood,” he asserted. For Nigeria to be globally relevance and for its youths to be globally competitive, Bello appealed to the federal government to revisit the recurring problems in its university system and consider a reevaluation of the funding pattern as well as also reconsider payment of tuition fees for each student directly to universities rather than through subvention.

“This will change the game and make the universities start living up to their bill, with the attendant less disruption to academic calendars. This requires only 25-30 per cent extra subvention over the current releases,” he added. Universities, Bello pointed out would enjoy relative autonomy and become more focused if they receive funds per student just as funds will be more efficiently utilised for the core businesses of the institution. Stability and scholarship, he also stated will be better promoted with autonomy of funds accrual.

Generating homegrown solutions for African problems CONTINUED FROM PAGE 47 ing of industrialising the continent, though we (Nigeria) have a large internal market that is also true for a few countries in Africa. The significance of large markets is demonstrated by the huge advances that have been achieved by China, India and Europe, which leveraged off the size of their internal markets.” The financier of the fellowship said that the endowment was aimed at building capacity to address the subject of co-development through research, which

provides the material for evidence-based law and policy making for intra-African trade development. Akinkugbe, who noted that regional integration was important for African development, stressed that co-development should be vigorously pursued in Africa for sustained mutual development adding that a better vehicle could not have been chosen than promoting compatibility between the continents business laws in order to drive intra-African trade. “It is my hope that we will build up significant expert-

ise in this area of comparative law, so as to meaningfully contribute to our collective growth on the continent,” he added. In his remarks, Director General of NIALS, Prof Epiphany Azinge, expressed the institution’s gratitude to General Danjuma for the philanthropic gesture, which he described as “unique and exemplary.” While stressing that was indeed “given to few men to be richly blessed by God, yet have the humility, focus and spirit of magnanimity to assist in development of the human race,” Azinge said

the school was honoured to be part of this ennobling enterprise and pledged its commitment to judicious and transparent use of the grant. “We are also very confident of our faculty, which undoubtedly is one of the best in Africa. We promise to deploy the services of our faculty and indeed the expertise we parade to ensure that the vision that informed the grant to the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies and University of Cape Town is fulfilled to the letter,” he stated.

While the Vice Chancellor of UCT, South Africa, Dr, Max Price said that the main purpose of the partnership was to help align the legal system in Africa and change them so that the continent can create a sense of economic unity by understanding the different systems and origins and by looking at how they are aligned, the Chair, CCLA, Prof. Salvatore Mancuso described CCLA as an outcome of a vision and hope that Africa can speak with its own voice in the legal development discussion within the global society.

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50 Thursday, May 15, 2014 EDUCATION

ASUP accuses Wike of gambling with future of polytechnic students From Ali Garba, Bauchi S the feud between the A Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) and the Federal Government occasioned by the ongoing strike action by festers, ASUP has accused the supervising Minister of Education, Nyesom Wike of gambling with the future of polytechnic students in the country. National Vice President of the body, Usman Duste, while speaking to newsmen in Bauchi State recently stated that although the struggle was in the interest of the students and to address the rot in polytechnics around the country, the lingering strike would definitely affect the quality of graduates produced by the institutions. Dutse, who is of the Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi State, said, “He is only interested in his political ambition and has not shown enough American University of Nigeria (AUN) 2014 graduating class jubilate during the school’s commencement ceremony…recently commitment to resolving the issues that have sustained the indefinite strike to date,” Dutse said of Wike. Dutse critised the minister The Ugbomro community ceremony went on successIn his matriculation for giving the public the From Chido Okafor, Warri in whose immediate vicini- fully without any interrup- speech, Etu-Efeotor welimpression that ASUP was HE Federal University of comed the new students to strong-headed by embarkPetroleum Resources ty the school is sited wants tion, however. This development might “the first Petroleum ing on a lengthy propagan- (FUPRE), Effurun, Delta all the signposts relating to da session, where he State, established seven the university’s location to have caused the vice chan- University in Africa and fifth alleged falsehood was years ago recently marked bear Ugbomro. The move cellor to openly declare: in the world.” He said: “You must not forbeing spread with impuni- its seventh matriculation has equally not gone down “I’m operating in a slightly ty. ceremony during which 421 well with the Iteregbi com- hostile environment,” even get the primary responsibilHe further lamented high freshmen were adminis- munity, which also hosts as he cited the defacing of ity of being in the university the university’s signboard. is to acquire knowledge and level of discrimination that tered matriculation oath by the university. Both communities, it was He appealed to host com- expertise not just to shape exist between the polytech- the Vice Chancellor of the nic and the universities say- school, Prof John Ovwata learnt, are always at “war” munities to give peace a your destiny, but the wellover who gets what from chance. being of our society. ing, “polytechnics in Etu-Efeotor. The VC also condemned the Therefore, you must prove Nigeria are treated by the The vice chancellor used the university. It was, therefore, not sur- increasing crime rate in the at the end of your stay in government as second class the occasion to seek institutions, whose certifi- improved peaceful relation- prising that on the morn- environment, disclosing this university that you have cates are not job worthy. ship with the host commu- ing of the matriculation cer- that recently a student was been refined in character For instance, in the area of nities, especially Ugbomro emony, some youths from shot by some criminals and learning to affect the funding, TETFund gives and Iteregbi, which have the communities mutilated from the communities in society.” He hinted that the first set polytechnics and colleges been at daggers drawn with the large signboard of the the process of trying to disof education half of what it the university over the loca- university by using paint to poses him of his laptop and of workshops and laboratogives to federal universities, tion nameEffurun, delete Effurun replacing it handset. The student was ries for the College of while the funding received gazetted in the act establish- with their community’s discharged last week from Technology were ready for name. The matriculation hospital. use, and that work would by one university is more ing it. than that being handed out to five polytechnics put together.” While also deploring government’s inability to live Ajibero said the and the Directorate of despicable acts will be From John Akubo, Lokoja up to its words after offerexpelled Polytechnic would not tol- Students’ Services of the summarily ing to pay the CONTISS 15 HE Rector of Kogi State erate any situation where a school, stressing that on because the polytechnic migration arrears in two Polytechnic Lokoja, group of students consti- no account should they has zero tolerance for installments (i.e. March and Professor Mathew Idowu tute themselves into a ter- take laws into their hands. deviants or violence of any September), which the Ajibero, has issued a stern rorist group to harass and “Remember that each of kind” union eventually agreed to, warning to students of the intimidate other law abidHe added that examinayou has come from a home Dutse regretted that due to institution never to get ing students. tion malpractice, drug sponsored by your parents the refusal of the govern- involved in terrorist activiHe further warned that and guardians to acquire addiction, fighting, theft ment to harmonise work- ties, hooliganism or any student found want- education. Management and cultism would be met ing conditions across terti- sundry ant-social activities. ing in this direction would will therefore, not tolerate with the most severe punary institutions, the college He has also warned them ishment, urging them to of education were losing against vandalising ameni- be summarily expelled any situation whereby any desist from such in their from the institution, as it student or group of stutheir lecturers to universities provided for their comwould not fail to invoke dents constitute them- own interest and focus ties. fort and learning purposes appropriate sanctions on selves into a body that ter- their energies on their ASUP resumed its strike on on campus. the culprits. rorises, harasses or intimi- studies. October 4, 2013 and has Speaking at the matriculaOn security within the been negotiating with the tion ceremony, where over He advised those who may dates other law abiding campus, the rector said the have any misgivings to students for whatever reafederal government over 3, 000 freshmen were management would leave the strike for more than administered their matric- channel their complaints son. through the Students “Anyone caught in such no stone unturned in proeight months now. ulation oath in Lokoja, Union Government (SUG) viding adequate security

FUPRE seeks end to feud with host communities

soon commence on the workshops and laboratories of the Petroleum Engineering department, which would be named after the late Senator Pius Ewherido, who helped source funds for the project. The VC admonished the students to avoid the pit-falls of the learning environment such as examination malpractice, cultism, indiscipline, non-committal attitude to studies and sexual abuse, which he warned go with a price of unwanted pregnancy or veneral diseases including Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS).

Kogi Poly to expel students involved in anti-social behaviours

Bank renovates Imo varsity building From Charles Ogugbuaja, Owerri Bank Nigeria Plc has FposeIRST handed over a multi-purhall, which belongs to the Theatre Arts Department of the Imo State University, which it recently renovated. The renovation exercise was part of the firm’s corporate social responsibility. Handing over the building

to the authorities of the school over the weekend, the bank’s regional manager, Mr. Chuks Njoku, who was accompanied by the relationship manager (public sector) in the state among others, said undertaking the renovation was the bank’s response to the call made by Chairman of

the Governing Council of the institution, Mazi Clement Onwunali. Among other things, he explained that the bank reroofed the structure, fixed structural defects, replaced the entire ceiling, fixed lightening equipment and repainted the building. Njoku added that even after doing

this, the bank would continue to partner the institution in a show of support as well as a way of helping to further education in the country. In their responses, Onwunali and the Vice Chancellor of the university, Prof. Ukachukwu Awuzie, commended the bank for

coming to the school’s aid calling on other corporate bodies to follow suit. Awuzie, however, decried the existence of only two universities in the state calling on wealthy individuals to give back to the society by establishing world-class tertiary institutions in the state.

on campus even as he reiterated that security personnel and security committee were doing their job to ensure safety on campus. He charged the students to be vigilant and report any threat or slight breach of the security to management. Ajibero, who admitted that the institution was unable to admit more students due to the limited resources available to it, equally added that concerted efforts were being made to expand the existing facilities on a continuous basis in order to overcome the challenge. He enjoined the fresh students to use the opportunity offered them by their admission to lay a solid foundation for their future by taking their studies seriously. He promised that the school authority would continue to ensure that the needed amenities were in place to aid their studies and extra-curricular activities.

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NeCO shortlists 40, 000 candidates for second phase of Common entrance examination From Kanayo Umeh, Abuja T least 40,000 candidates A out of the 110,000 candidates that wrote the last Common entrance examination into federal government colleges will sit for the second phase of the exam-

ination. The Registrar of the National examinations Council (NeCO), Prof. Promise Okpala, who disclosed this to journalists in Minna, Niger State recently, said results of the examination, which held on

LBS maintains Financial Times’ ranking Business School has, Lyear,AGOS for the eighth consecutive sustained the Financial Times’ (FT) ranking of top open enrolment programme providers worldwide. The FT’s executive education 2014 ranking, published in London, places LBS 55th globally and second in Africa in that category. Dean of LBS, Dr. enase Okonedo, said the development was commendable given the intense competition among schools to make the list. “I’m extremely glad that LBS has been able to maintain its position. The fact that we’re ranked second in Africa and the only school in the West African sub-region, attests to the fact that our market considers the LBS learning experience extremely beneficial,” she said. Okonedo assured that LBS would continue to strive to move upwards in future FT rankings. “Our focus is on ensuring that we offer participants knowledge of global stan-

dards relevant to their needs of succeeding in Africa. We believe this is where we have an advantage because unlike other schools, the participants that come to LBS are players in the African business environment.” In this year’s ranking, IMD Business School, Switzerland topped the list followed by the University of Chicago: Booth and heC Paris, among others. Other African business schools included in the FT rankings are the University of Pretoria’s Gordon Institute of Business Science (GIBS), Wits Business School, University of Stellenbosch Business School, all in South Africa, and the American University of Cairo’s School of Business, egypt. The Financial Times of London publishes annually a list of the best management programmes from business schools around the world, based on the quality of learning, staff and student diversity, growth in business and international reach.

April 26, were ready and would soon be published. he explained that the second test for the 40,000 candidates who qualified was to select the best that would fill the 24,000 spaces available in the colleges. According to him, the second phase of the examination is necessary as “you get a better

description of a child through multiple assessment. We doing our best to ensure that all goes smoothly with this examination. “This particular examination, though small, is very sensitive because parents would never understand if anything goes wrong with their children’s

future,” he said. Okpala said results of the Common entrance examination and venues for the second phase of the examination would be placed in federal government colleges nationwide. The registrar, who hailed the turn out for the examination in all parts of the country, said

it was an indication of the confidence Nigerians had in the quality of education provided by the colleges. Okpala reaffirmed government’s commitment to upholding its promise of 60 per cent admissions into the schools based on merit while 40 per cent is reserved for quota.

Mass choir of secondary schools at the Association of International School Educators of Nigeria (AISEN) 10th Anniversary Music Festival, held at Muson Centre, Lagos... recently

educationist wants schools to show interest in space science By Ujunwa Atueyi IReCTOR of MD D Schools, Lagos, Mrs. Omolara Adedugbe, has urged schools in the country to expose their students to sciences programmes that would enable them keep pace with their counterparts in other parts of the world. Adedugbe spoke recently when the Chief Scientific Officer of African Regional Centre for Space Science & Technology education (english), Mrs. Wunmi Alabi, led others to launch the Space Science Club at the school. The agency based in Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, is affiliated with to the United Nations. Members of the team led by Chief Scientific Officer, Mrs. Wunmi Alabi flagged off the Space Science Club at the school, in which about 21 selected private schools with one public school being the adopted school of the host, gathered with enthusiasm to get witness the launch and get firsthand information on what the club entails by the agency. Speaking toThe Guardian on the development, Adedugbe said, “We are collaborating with the agency to launch the club in our schools and train

our teachers, who will implement the guidelines in our curriculum. We want to get our children educated on space science as we expect their generation to be globally relevant than us.” “There is no curriculum that teaches space science education, and this agency has been in existence for years with people knowing very little about it. The information we heard was that the federal government is not willing to sponsor the outreach programme aimed at creating awareness on the programme, and this is sad.” She added that the school was sponsoring the programme 100 per cent and has even invited other interested schools to participate in it. On her part, Mrs. Alabi, noted that children all over the world were involved in robotics exploration and the study of space education hence the need for Nigerian students to key in. According to her, “It has become mandatory for the Nigerian government to initiate a “catch them young” campaign where pupils at a very tender age are attracted to space science. Space science has been identified as a subject that encompasses all the major science subjects and

it can be used as a motivational tool to develop and sustain the interest of school children in sciences.” “By introducing space science in the Nigerian educational system at the basic levels of formal education,

the Nigerian child can be encouraged from an early age to develop interest in space technology and take up careers in the space industry. Considering the many benefits of Space Science Technology (SST) to humankind, there is need

to empower the upcoming generation to take up the challenges of SST for national development as it will ensure that youths get a grasp of space-based knowledge applicable both professionally and in every-day life,” she averred.

Former Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Paul Dike, launched the school-based space club on the May 18th, 2007 at the conference centre of OAU, as the brainchild of the Centre for Space Science and Technology education.

KWASU earmarks N4.5 for students’ research From Abiodun Fagbemi, Ilorin. he Kwara State University, T Malete, Moro council area of the state has earmarked the sum of N4.5m for students of the university who have the required capability to embark on research in various disciplines. This is under the institution’s Undergraduate Research Programme (URP).

Of this amount, the sum of N1.5m was given out to 40 students last semester for research purposes, while the amount for the exercise in the second semester was doubled by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Abdulrasheed Na’Allah. The disclosure was made yesterday during the 2nd Undergraduate Research Day, organised by the institu-

tion’s Centre for Undergraduate Research Programme. About 60 students from various colleges and departments of the university have presented research proposals as a prerequisite to accessing the fund. Speaking at the programme, Na’Allah noted that the idea apart from serving as a catalyst and inculcate in them,

the culture of research right from their preliminary levels. Speaking through the Academic Coordinator, Professor Saka Babatunde, the vice chancellor stressed the importance of research to national development, urging the country to emulate other countries that are using research for industrialisation and national development.

KSUTh needs N276m for full take-off, says VC From John Akubo, Lokoja he Chief Medical Director T of Kogi State University Teaching hospital, Prof. edino Tijani Anyigba says the sum of N276m is required to facilitate the full take off of the hospital. Tijani who made the disclosure while briefing Governor Idris Wada on the situation in the school as well as funds needed to commence full operation said the money would take care of renovation of existing structures at

its temporary site, procurement of medicals, laboratory, theatre and office equipment as well as recruitment of consultants and sundry staff members. The medical director said the management of the hospital has already established an effective administrative structure and accounting system to fast track its operations. he stressed that the organisational chart of the facility was structured in line with that of the federal university

teaching hospitals. he further informed the governor that with 153 on the staff of the hospital, it requires additional 139 personnel to function excellently. Professor Anyigba commended Wada for his efforts at getting the hospital in place, adding that it would go a along way in boosting health care delivery in the state as well as meeting the training needs of the medical students. On his part, Captain Wada

disclosed that 100 hectares of land had been cleared for the school’s permanent site even as he informed that contractors handling various construction projects there would be mobilised to site within one week. he commended the management for putting in place an effective administrative structure and accounting system that would facilitate the realisation of his administration’s dream of tackling the training needs of health personnel in the state.

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‘Use your education to impact Nigeria, Africa’ from acquiring Ftion,ReSH American-style educawhich its promoters say creates problem solvers and world changers, the Class of 2014 of the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Yola, Adamawa State, have been charged to use the education they have acquired to, not only impact Nigeria and the world, but also carve a niche for themselves. President of the AUN, Yola, Adamawa State, Margee ensign handed down the charge in her address at the fifth Commencement Ceremony, where a total of 289 students were awarded different degrees ranging from first degrees, post graduates diplomas to master’s degrees. ensign specifically told the new graduates that with the world-class education they have received, the community service they rendered to their school’s immediate environment, they have been adequately nurtured to become prime movers in their respective professions. The school president, who stressed that the school since its establishment has imbued students with the spirit of community-based services and development, added that it still remains committed to efforts geared at bringing about sustainable development and prosperity. She added that apart from striving to provide qualitative education, the school was also out to “respect, integrate and promote colourful traditional, religious and cultural heritage of its students and community in this process of change.” ensign pledged that the school would continue to empower locals with a view to changing their circumstances even as it remains supportive of efforts aimed at engendering peace and security in the state. Specifically, she said the university has become a major sponsor of peace initiative groups, including the popular Adamawa Peace Council adding that, “the university and the peace council have initiated several projects, including

information technology training for local youths. The goal is to assist young people to acquire the knowledge and skills, needed to work or start their own small businesses.” In her remarks, the Class of 2014 Speaker, Odera Okakpu said she was privileged to be part of a set that “has witnessed a rise like a phoenix

from the ashes.” She said, “For some of us AUN was not the first choice. A lot like myself wanted America and not “American.” But permit me to speak for all of us when I say, today AUN has proven to be the best choice. “Ladies and gentlemen, if for whatever reason you are not clear on how AUN is a

developmental university, let me explain. The people waiting to graduate are not the same as when they steeped into this campus the first time. They have developed and along the way were taught to develop the community around them, be it by entrepreneurship or community service. AUN is in every right, a

developmental institution and we owe everyone that had a hand in it a big thank you.” Okakpu who described her alma mater as an institution, “where students’ dreams become Africa’s future,” added that she bears “witness to this trademark slogan of the university.

A South Korean official flanked by pupils of Chrisland Schools during the school’s art and cultural day celebration… recently

Chukwuebuka, others glitter at GISSMATH Competition NAH Onyx A Chukwuebuka of Mount Olive Nursery and Primary School, Onitsha, Monwuba Princess Ifeoma of God’s Wisdom International Nursery and Primary School, Nnewi, and ezenne Onyinye Sylvia of Seat of Wisdom Nursery and Primary School, Nnewi, emerged top three winners at the 2014 GISSMATH Competition, which ended recently in Oba, Anambra State. For their efforts, they were rewarded with cash prizes ranging between N50, 000, N30, 000 and N20, 000 in that order for finishing first, second and third.

GISSMATH Competition is an annual mathematics competition organised for primary school pupils by Grundtvig International Secondary School, Oba, Anambra State. It is intended to recognise outstanding primary schools in mathematics in the state. In their remarks, the three winners expressed joy at the successes they recorded in the competition, adding that preparing for the competition had made them work harder in their studies, thereby bringing out the best in them. They were unanimous in admitting that mathematics as a subject becomes easy when suf-

ficient attention was paid to it. They advised other pupils to see the subject as an easy subject and strive to master it by repeatedly solving mathematical problems. According to the Principal of Grundtvig International Secondary School, Olusoji Abiodun, “GISSMATH Competition was born out of the kindness and generosity of the Board of Trustees and the management of the school because the role of science and mathematics in the development of technology cannot be over-emphasised. Therefore, the primary purpose of the competition is to

catch future mathematicians young and assist them to develop their talents, so that they can meaningfully contribute their quotas to the development of our country.” Proprietor of one of the participating schools, Mr. Njoku Cosmas of Seat of Wisdom Nursery and Primary School, Nnewi, said he was pleased with Grundtvig’s management for organising the programme. He said the competition would help to identify gifted children in mathematics and encourage children generally to work hard in order to succeed in life.”

Kwankwaso charges scholarship beneficiaries to be good ambassadors He Kano State Governor, T Mr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has charged beneficiaries of the state government’s scholarship programme at the Crescent University, Abeokuta, Ogun State to be good ambassadors of the state as they undergo their respective programmes in the institution. He has, however, expressed satisfaction with the progress they have made in their respective d i s c i p l i n e s . Kwankwaso, who was in the school on a visit, noted the contributions of the proprietor of the institution, Justice Bola Ajibola in both legal and education sectors, describing it as worthy of emulation. Speaking earlier, Ajibola said Nigeria needed more political leaders in the mould of Kwankwaso, added that: “This is the product of our effort to bring the North and South of Nigeria together,” stressing that the school has been able to propagate educational cohesion between the northern and southern Nigeria. In his welcome address, Vice Chancellor of the school, Prof. Kehinde Okeleye expressed deep appreciation to Governor Kwankwso for his sponsorship of 200 students to study various degree programmes in the institution even as he informed the governor that the students’ academic performance to date was good. Okeleye said, “It is praiseworthy to report that all Kano State students in the school have laptops courtesy of the state government, which has redeemed its promise to them.” Insisting that that the gesture has impacted positively on the students’ performance, Okeleye added that Crescent University was currently working on floating medical and health science programmes and would need the support of its stakeholders in that direction.

BridgeIT tasks stakeholders on effective utilisation of technology to teach mathematics ITH the teaching and W learning of mathematic still posing a major challenge in schools, BridgeIT Nigeria has implored the state government to intensify efforts aimed at improving current structures in public schools in the state to facilitate the deployment of technological platforms in teaching the subject. The firm, which recently hosted over 500 mathematics teachers from public schools to a training programme on the use of a technology platform to boost the teaching of mathematics, is involved in innovative and effective teaching practice aimed at professional development; helping teachers enhance their performances, creating a more student-centered

learning environment and improving classroom culture. It is also involved in deploying an open-source mobile technology to deliver innovative teaching practices and educational content to teachers. According to coordinator of the BridgeIT initiative, Mrs. Atinuke Adelakun, while giving an overview of the project at the just concluded teachers training programme in Lagos, said schools were provided with mobile devices loaded with Nokia education Delivery (NeD) software that enables them to access a catalogue of educational materials. Teachers, she continued, received in-person training to learn how to use the technology and how to

effectively engage students with the digital materials. Also, by using the mobile devices, teachers can share teaching videos and connect to one another in a virtual community of practice. “Teachers play a central role in BridgeIT- they map digital contents in accordance with local curriculum standards, work together to create lesson plans for each video, and then deliver the lessons to students. In addition, teachers meet regularly throughout the programme to further develop their practice,” said Adelakun. She lamented that poor power supply, lack of necessary infrastructure, poor attitude of teacher and head teachers, inefficiency in the distribution of lesson

plan, loss of telephones and other problems have so far militated against the smooth running of the programme. In the programme, which BridgeIT is partnering with Nokia and Pearson Foundation, 31 schools were involved in the pilot phase in 2011, in which 62 teachers were trained and each school was given a 29” television set and one touch screen, high-end Nokia telephone. Presently Adelakun confirmed that 262 teachers have been trained adding that by the end of the training programme, there would be about 400 pupils to 2 mathematics and 1-science teachers in each school. On the impact of the pro-

gramme, she said the programme has reached over 50,000 pupils with beneficiaries now looking forward to mathematics lessons. While a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed with the Lagos State government, Adelakun encouraged all stakeholders especially schools to own the programme and work collectively towards ensuring its success. In her remarks, Chairman, LSUBeB, Mrs. Gbolahan Daodu reiterated the importance of the programme, saying it was key in bridging the gap between education and technology. She said, “When children can see, touch and demonstrate what they have been taught they can learn better. The state government is

doing and spending a lot to make sure education is better hence the clarion call for individuals and organisations to partner with it to raise the standard”. She described the active involvement of all stakeholders as a critical ingredient for the success of the programme stressing that stakeholders must imbibe the right attitude necessary for the effective implementation of the programme. “ We entered an agreement when this programme came to us and the current situation is uncomfortable because we are hardly doing our own part well. This is our programme, a lot of money has been sunk into it and for it to succeed, we must all be passionate about it,” she said.

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MarketReport EQUITY MARKET SUMMARY

AS AT 14-05-2014

PRIMERA AFRICA www.primera-africa.com

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MArKeT INdICATorS

AS AT 14-05-2014

PrIMerA AFrICA

NSe’s market capitalisation rises further by N60b By Bukky Olajide MProved corporate performance has continued to buoy indices on the equity sector of the Nigerian Stock exchange, even as more blue chip companies join the league of gainers, resulting to a further rise in market capitalisation by N60 billion. Specifically, at the closed of transactions yesterday, market capitalisation improved by N60 billion to N12.891 trillion from N12.831 trillion traded the previous day while the NSe All Share Index (ASI) grew by 183.95 basis points to 39138.97 points from 38955.02 points. on the price movement chart, Nigerian Breweries yesterday led gainers table at the nation’s stock market, advancing by N3.54 kobo to close at N158.60 kobo, Forte oil followed with a gain of N1.01 kobo to close at N150.00 while UAC Property appreciated by N0.78 kobo to close at N18.46 kobo. UACN and Stanbic IBTC increased by N0.63 kobo and N0.50 kobo respectively to close at N56.50 kobo and N22.50 kobo. Conversly, Total Nigeria

Plc recorded the highest loss for the day, dropping by N6.00 to close at N154.00, Mobil trailed with a loss of N5.45 kobo to close at N125.55 kobo while UPdC reit loss N0.55 kobo to close at N10.47 kobo. other stocks that depreciated in price were Ashaka Cement and GTBank which declined by N0.50 kobo and N0.49 kobo respectively to close at N19.50 kobo and N27.50 kobo. Further analysis of yesterday’s transactions showed that MTI 101.000 million shares worth N50.500 million, Zenith International Bank Plc followed with account of 59.765 million shares valued at N1.379 billion while United Bank for Africa exchanged 36.865 million shares worth N266.124 million. UBA Capital took fourth position having accounted 26.781 million shares cost N66.467 million and FBNHoldings traded 20.110 million shares valued at N274s.816 million. In all investors traded a turnover of 414.779 million shares valued at N4.462 billion in 4945 deals against 272.383 million shares worth N3.123 billion in 5211 deals.

Shareholders approve Safetrust Mortgage Bank’s N101.2 m dividend By Helen Oji of Safetrust Mortgage SBankHAreHoLderS Limited , yesterday lauded the bank’s 2013 achievements, even as they approved its N101.2 million dividend, translating to 6kobo per share due to every shareholders of the bank. The Chairman of the bank, Akin opedu, while addressing shareholders during the bank’s yearly general meeting held in Lagos yesterday, explained that the bank posted a total asset of N12.6 billion, which represents an increase of 6.3 per cent over N11.9 billion achieved in 2012 while interest earnings stood at N2.12 billion, higher than N1.85 billion recorded in 2012. According to him, shareholders’ fund stood at N2.78 billion, up from N2.02 billion in 2012 while total deposit stood at N6.62billion. opedu told shareholders that the bank has surpassed the minimum capital/shareholders fund of N2.5billion for state operating licence. He pointed out that the bank has already commenced the process of acquiring the national operating licence of N5.0billion capital base through private placement, rights issue and

merger. “We are currently working towards expanding our branch network with more branches anticipated especially in Lagos and adopting agent banking model as well. We have concluded on some improved services channels and Iam happy to inform the stakeholders that our improved services to our customers includes but not limited to availing of electronic banking services such as ATM services, telephone banking, internet banking and the likes and also currently working with some of our partners to provide additional echannel services to our customers. “The bank’s risk profile remains fairly conservative, we would continue to strengthen our risk management and control frameworks across the business. The staffing competencies in these function were built up significantly during the course of the year, we would continued to place premium on optimal performances in these functions.” He added. He assured shareholders that the bank would continue to anticipate and respond to changes in the industry environment while expanding its business activities to enhance profitability.

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Sports Ahead Brazil 2014 World Cup

Eagles must stick together to succeed, says Omeruo HERE is a calm contemT plation behind every one of Kenneth Omeruo’s words. The young Nigeria defender speaks like he plays, with composure and focus, making sure to phrase his responses carefully during an exclusive chat with FIFA.com. Often breaking into a disarming smile throughout, it is easy to see how the Chelsea man has established himself as a fan favourite during his time on loan at Middlesbrough, during the second half of the 2013/14 season. “I’ve really enjoyed my time at Middlesbrough,” Omeruo said. “I knew that if I had the chance to play I would keep the position. I would like to thank the club, the manager especially for believing in me and playing me. I’m happy that I didn’t disappoint him. I knew I had to play games to be fit for the World Cup and also to make the squad. It’s been a really good season for me.” The manager he speaks of is Aitor Karanka, who graced the Santiago Bernabeu during his playing days, winning three UEFA Champions Leagues during his time as a Real Madrid defender. “It’s easy to play under a manager that has played in the centre of defence,” Omeruo explained. “I’m lucky to have the same in the national team (with Stephen Keshi). You get advice from them on how you should play.” Omeruo received some Dutch advice after signing for Chelsea in January 2012, spending the best part of 18 months in the Netherlands with ADO Den Haag, an experience he believes was vital in his growth into an international player. “I think a lot of my development was from Dutch football,” Omeruo said. “I was under a good manager there, who liked me and the way I play. He played me in a position that I didn’t know how to play before (fullback), it was a really good experience. That’s what got me into the national team.” Those performances in the Dutch Eredivisie, as well as his impressive role in helping his country to the FIFA U-17 World Cup final in 2009 and FIFA U-20 World Cup quarter-finals two years later, gave Stephen Keshi food for thought heading into the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2013. Omeruo grabbed his opportunity with both hands.

“It was unbelievable,” Omeruo said, smiling. “It was my first appearance for the national team (at the start of the tournament), and then we were lifting the trophy. I felt good and it was a day I will never forget.” That continental win means Nigeria will head into a World Cup as champions of Africa, just as they did 20 years ago. As at USA 1994, and 2002 and 2010, they were drawn in a group with South American heavyweights Argentina, along with Iran and debutants BosniaHerzegovina. “I remember watching the World Cup in South Africa,” Omeruo said. “It was disappointing that we didn’t come out of the group in 2010. We’ll have to play for the Nigerian fans because it was a massive welcome when we won the African Cup of Nations. They showed us how much they love football and how much they are behind us, so we have to play for them. “I’m really looking forward to the game against Argentina. We will try as much as possible to keep a clean sheet. It will be difficult but we have to do that. They are the best players in the world and we have to show our quality by standing up to them. We will first of all have to make sure we get maximum points from the first two games.” Asked how he would keep Lionel Messi at bay, Omeruo responded that he had been conducting some research on his Group F opponent. “I watch him a lot on TV. It’s going to be a team effort to try and stop him. Everyone will have to be positive and 100 per cent focused on the game.” With Messi, Gonzalo Higuain and Sergio Aguero all potentially lining up for La Albiceleste, the Nigerian

backline will have to be particularly attentive. Omeruo’s relationship with his central defensive partner, and his coach, who played in the same position during his career, should make that task easier. “I do have a good friendship with Godfrey Oboabona off the pitch, we talk on Skype sometimes,” he said. “Before the national team, I used to play with him in the Nigerian league with Sunshine Stars. “Most times before games Stephen Keshi gives us both separate advice. He tries to psyche us up as much as possible. As well as that, he is a father who advises us. He’s a really good man to play under.” With the World Cup on the immediate horizon, what does the future hold for the youngster after Brazil? “We’ll have to wait and see,” Omeruo said. “It would be nice to go back to Middlesbrough, it’s a good environment with good people around. I like the manager. “Obviously we’ll have to see how the World Cup goes and my first priority is to stay with Chelsea. From playing in training with John Terry, Gary Cahill and David Luiz I just want to put myself in there, try to learn from them and correct anything I’m not doing right.” Omeruo’s focus and dedication to learning from others are admirable traits, and if his enthusiasm and ambition rub off onto his Nigeria team-mates, then the Super Eagles could be the first African side to reach the final four of world football’s showpiece event. “I’m hoping we’ll get to the Final,” Omeruo responded when asked how far his side would go in Brazil. “But I think at least the semifinals.”

Omeruo

Argentine pros, 16 teams set for Abuja Guards Brigade Polo tourney From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja TOTAL of 16 polo teams from across the country are expected to battle with some Argentine professionals when the yearly Democracy Day Cup, organised by the Abuja Guards Brigade Polo Club, flags off on May 20 at the club’s Abuja pitch. Disclosing this during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Sports/Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Tammy Danagogo, vice president of the Abuja

Guards Brigade Polo Club, Adamu Usman, who led a team of the club’s executive members to see the minister, said the tournament would be in four categories. Usman, who pleaded with the minister to come to the club’s aid to maintain their pitches, said the highlight of the tournament would be the Argentina Ambassador’s Cup sponsored by the envoy to Nigeria in commemoration

Surulere FC dominates Lagos Junior League award URULERE Sports City FC’s S2013/2014 domination of the premier league divi-

All for Eagles… Globacom’s Head of Operations, Bisi Koleosho (second right), former African Player of the Year, Victor Ikpeba (second left), Google’s Country Manager, Juliet Ehimuan-Chiazora and Glo Sales Manager, Lagos, Mariam Onosode-Atseyinku, at the unveiling of the “Go Ahead Eagles” campaign launched by Glo in Lagos… on Monday.

of the country’s day, which is celebrated every May 25. “We have two tournaments in a year; the one we tagged Democracy Day tournament, which is expected to last from May 20 to 25, 2014, and the second, which holds in November when the international carnival takes place. In the calendar of Nigerian Polo Federation, it is only the Abuja Guards Polo Club that runs two events in a year.

sion of the Lagos Junior League has earned them a lot of awards at this year’s ceremony held at the Teslim Balogun Stadium. Awards like the Coach of the Year and Team of the Year were scooped by the team, which beat Ojo Babes to second place in the elite cadre of the league. For netting 13 goals in 19 matches, Akeem Taiwo of Ifako Ijaye emerged as the highest goal scorer, while Salami Azeez of Mushin was adjudged as the most valuable player (MVP) for this season.

In league one, Orile Agege FC toped the table while Ibeju Lekki and Egbe Idimu finished second and third respectively. Speaking at the colourful event attended by teams and officials Chairman, board of Directors of Lagos Junior League, Kamal Bayewu, said in the last five years, over 4000 players have featured in the league, which has become the most viable grassroots tournament in the country. “The Lagos Junior League has produced within its ranks numerous players that have featured for the national teams. The league is at the forefront of the battle against age cheats in football,” Bayewu said.

Thursday, May 15, 2014 Sports | 79

THE GUARDIAN www.ngrguardiannews.com

Ex-Eagle faults Keshi over exclusion of Uche, Obasi From Ezeocha Nzeh, Abuja

Says Eagles bench lacks a match reader

ered the interest of the country to pardon whatever wrong the players might have done to him to consider them for a place in his 30-man list. Moses, who expressed his optimism that one of the African representatives at the Mundial will surpass Nigeria’s feat at the USA 1994, however, called on everyone to put behind them those shortcomings and rally round the coach in order for them to excel in Brazil, noting that the list released by Coach Keshi are the ones he believes can deliver for him. He however lamented the absence of a match reader in the Super Eagles bench, warning that the team requires the service of an experienced

ORMER Super Eagles goalkeeper, Gbenga Moses, has faulted the exclusion of Villarreal, Ike Uche and his FC Shalke 04 counterpart, Chinedu Obasi, from the provisional list recently released by the Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, for the Brazil 2014 FIFA World Cup, saying that he erred in his decision to drop the two inform strikers. Moses, who featured for elite Nigerian league club sides like Bendel Insurance, Iwuanyanwu Nationale, New Nigeria bank and Julius Berger FC during his playing days, said that it was very wrong for Keshi to have dropped two of its best players at the moment, stressing that he should have consid-

match reader for a championship like the World Cup. “Let us be sincere with ourselves, every serious country goes to a competition of this nature with its best players. Ike Uche and Chinedu Obasi are some of the best players Nigeria have presently. As a former player, I believe that no two players are the same and a good manager should be able to manage his players differently irrespective of their level of discipline. You can get the best out of them if you know how to manage them. I think that Keshi should have forgiven whatever sin these players have committed and given them a second chance in the interest of Nigeria. But since he has refused to do that we should encourage him to move on, may be he has the players he believes in that could play a better role than Uche and Obasi.

Super Eagles Ik Uche (right) celebrating with Ahmed Musa in a match

DAWN Games: We are set, says Lagos commissioner By Gowon Akpodonor and Samuel Ifetoye ‘Ondo State sports director lied’ AGOS State Commissioner LIbirogba, of Information, Lateef has assured that the

Kids waiting to take their turn at the recently concluded Warri Tennis Coaching Clinic organized by Lagos-based Iso-Black Concept Ltd. Over 500 school children attended the clinic.

maiden edition of the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Games, which commences tomorrow, will linger on in the memory of the participating students. Ibirogba said in a chat with journalists yesterday that all the six western states, including Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, Osun and Ekiti would take part in the Games. He said the essence of the DAWN Games is to harmonise different identities that currently exist in the

NAFDAC boss urges Nigerian youths to emulate Ultimate Commander By Joseph Okoghenun HE Director–General of T the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Dr. Paul Orhii, has urged Nigerian youths to emulate World Heavyweight Wrestling Champion, Mr. Osita Offor, popularly known as De Ultimate Commander, whom, he said, has through his personal efforts put the country in the world map. Speaking while receiving the wrestler in his office on Tuesday, the director general also urged the country’s sport stars to avoid performance-enhancing drugs in all they do. De Ultimate Commander was at the NAFDAC office in Lagos to present his world heavyweight championship belt to Orhii and also intimate him on the forthcoming Nelson Mandela Commonwealth and America Unifying Championship, scheduled for the United States, Canada, Britain, South Africa and Nigeria.

An elated Orhii described the Economic and Financial Crime Commission’s (EFCC) 2011 Ambassador as an honest sportsman, who has excelled in wrestling through hard work devoid of performance enhancing drugs. Saying that the wrestler decided to identify with the agency ‘because of what we stand for,’ Orhii promised to work with De Ultimate Commander to let sports people know that it pays to stay clean and away from drug. He also pledged to help the wrestler in sourcing for sponsors for his programmes that well-meaning Nigerians should support De Commander. Earlier, De Commander had described Orhii as a symbol of hard work, even as he commended the efforts of the agency in ensuring that the nation is free from adulterated drugs. He said: “ Using banned drugs is not the right way for one to excel in sport,” adding that real champions

are those who don’t need banned substances to succeed. De Ultimate Commander added, “as far as NAFDAC is not tired of fighting for the health of Nigerians, I will not be tired of fighting to put the name of Nigeria in the international arena.”

country by first staging the DAWN Games in the western region for others to copy. The competition will feature 12 events that include Gymnastics, Badminton, Basketball, Tennis, Table Tennis, Taewondo, Volleyball, Swimming, Scrabble and Athletics, He, however, said everything had been put in place as regards security, welfare, use of mercenaries, strict camp rules and regulation to avoid anything that will bring the DAWN Games to disrepute so that the essence for which the Games is organised is achieved. According to him, “any country that doesn’t take rules and regulation seriously can never develop”. Meanwhile, claims by Ondo State Sports Council that the state had not been carried along in the planning of the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN Games), has been described as untrue. The Chairman of Ondo State Sports Council, Elder Adeyeye Michael, had alleged that

organizers of the Games (Lagos State), did not carry Ondo State along from the planning stage. He said Ondo State would not take in the fiesta, which he alleged is ‘political motivated.’ But the Director General of DAWN Commission, Oladipo Famakinwa, told The Guardian yesterday that Ondo State had been part of the planning stage, saying: “I am sure some people in Ondo State are just looking for a way to paint the situation bad before their governor. “DAWN Commission, the Regional agency managing the Southwest integration agenda, would like to state that the Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko was duly notified, along with his brother Governors, of the design, the processes and planning of the DAWN Games 2014. “And of course, Ondo State has been duly represented at all the preliminary meetings leading to the hosting of the

World Wrestling Heavyweight Champion, Osiat Offor a.k.a De Ultimate Commander (left), Director General, NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii and NAFDAC’s Controller, Substances, Ubale Hashim, when the wrestler visited NAFDAC…on Tuesday. PHOTO: Gabriel Ikhahon.

Games. Indeed, at the initial Stakeholders’ Meeting comprising the six (6) States where the Rules and Regulations and Timelines for the DAWN Games 2014 were agreed upon, Ondo State was represented at that meeting by the Director in charge of Sports in the State’s Ministry of Education.” Speaking further, Famakinwa said: “At the Joint Technical Meeting of all the Stakeholders, and Inspection of facilities for the Games, which took place in Lagos from April 23 to 25, 2014, Ondo State was fully represented at the meeting by Mr. Jide Fawolu, the Director, School Sports, Ondo State. “In fact, at that meeting, the State representative submitted the duly completed DAWN Games 2014 Preliminary Entry Forms to the Technical Sub-committee, which was a confirmation of the State’s participation at the Games.” The DAWN Games, according to him, forms part of the holistic roadmap for the economic and social integration of the Southwest Region of Nigeria, especially with regards to the discovery of new sporting talents, creation of opportunities for personal development, culture promotion, employment generation, crime reduction, and to further engender brotherly relations among the constituent States, as well as reinforcing the unique affinities of the people of the Region. “The Games have nothing to do with politics. It is part of the overall strategy for leveraging and optimizing the favourable demographic swing within the Region on a sustainable basis,” Famakinwa said. The Ondo State Director of Sports (Adeyeye) had told The Guardian that the state governor, Olusegun Mimiko was aware of the state’s decision to pull out from the DAWN Games.

TheGuardian

Thursday, May 15, 2014

Conscience, Nurtured by Truth

By Samuel Stephen Wakdok Continued from yesterday (14-5-2014) HE government, politicians and technocrats alike only roll out policies. They give themselves pass marks for the words they are able to put on paper rather than the works on ground. Millions groan in darkness without electricity. Millions are without water. Millions are without job. Millions are without access to health care. Yet we have had governments who passed themselves high in public service. In this age, with our numerous resources we are still talking of lacking the basics; Nigerians joke about being their own local government since individuals provide water, energy, alternative power, education, health, and sadly even security for themselves and their families. The appropriation of our national wealth is so skewed in favour of a few and this continues to heighten the divide. There are many Nigerians who can’t earn a living no matter how much they contribute while there are a few who live in opulence though they contribute just a little. A government that cannot provide physical and economic security to its people, especially the vulnerable populace needs to have a rethink. Year in, year out, budgets are read but they are only budgets and end up as budgets. The people do not feel and have not seen the manifestation of such huge budgetary amounts in their lives or environment. The quality and sanctity of lives in Nigeria are not only so poor but are alarmingly on the decrease. The questions that beg for urgent answers are these: What kind of Nigeria are we inheriting? Are we still going to have Nigeria as our country with the way things are run and ruined by the present crop of rulers? Will we and our children remain Nigerians till we depart this earth? If we must continue to exist as Nigerians then we must become Nigeria ourselves. We must save Nigeria from the destruction of selfserving individuals and groups. The next centenary will meet us and our children in our prime, active and retiring years. We will therefore need a peaceful and functional country to live, work, retire, grow old and die in; we cannot afford to inherit a Nigeria where insecurity, corruption, terrorism, mal governance, failed educational system, rotten social amenities, crimes among many vices are the order of the day. The paradigm shift ought to start from the way we view the nexus between citizenship and national survivability. We must distant ourselves from the town criers and soothsayers whose major preoccupation is the disintegration of the only country we have for ourselves, our children and their children. The modern nation states have had their maps drawn by nationalism or colonialism, redrawing the map will not come without greater challenges than making the current map work except in extreme or rare situations. It is easier to start a fire than to put it out, far easier to beat the drums of war than to achieve peace. What we need is to consolidate on building a country, where we all irrespective of religion, ethnicity,

We must save Nigeria from the destruction of self-serving individuals and groups. The next centenary will meet us and our children in our prime, active and retiring years. We will therefore need a peaceful and functional country to live, work, retire, grow old and die in; we cannot afford to inherit a Nigeria where insecurity, corruption, terrorism, mal governance, failed educational system, rotten social amenities, crimes among many vices are the order of the day

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Nigeria’s centenary II: Through the prism of a negative optimist (2)

gender, class or creed will be stakeholders. In the process, we may have to jettison equality for equity, but in all debates and actual implementations the lives and livelihoods of the minorities and vulnerable groups must be protected. In our quest for a sustainable Nigeria, all classes of people who aspire must achieve. We should be able to build a culture of knowledge, expertise, technology and merit. Success must not be based on surnames, family ties, political marriages of convenience, or cliques. Failure should not be on misplaced indices of background, lack of godfatherism, without connection or gender imbalance. We will have to accept not just the new way of doing things, but also embrace the right way of doing things. To integrate our national space, every citizen must be guaranteed his or her share of our national identity. No one should suffer because he/she is or is not from a part of Nigeria. No one should be favoured or

unfavoured because of his or her religion. Barriers should not be placed on those youths whose parents did not partake in stealing the country blind. We must advance our quest for national development through dialogue among those who have the vision and passion for the sustainability of Nigeria. Spending scarce resources in a conference where those who have knee jerked Nigeria will be paid millions of Naira to go and do nothing but to sleep and talk about religious composition of a conference that ought to be national is a disservice to the struggling millions of Nigerians. Nigerians have been known to be patient, resilient and adaptive to hard times, but we must seek to become inventive, innovative, demanding (of our leaders’ stewardship), responsible and reinventing. We must refuse to accept the status quo and push to edge our quest for Justice and the rule of law. To save Nigeria from Nigerians, especially those who have brought us to this sorry state,

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Editor: MARTINS

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ABC (ISSN NO 0189-5125)

To integrate our national space, every citizen must be guaranteed his or her share of our national identity. No one should suffer because he/she is or is not from a part of Nigeria. No one should be favoured or unfavoured because of his or her religion. Barriers should not be placed on those youths whose parents did not partake in stealing the country blind. We must advance our quest for national development through dialogue among those who have the vision and passion for the sustainability of Nigeria.

we must move from rhetoric to action. We must move from the comfort of Facebook, Twitter, blogs and the internet to participatory activism which will make Nigeria responsive to the needs of her old and young, responsible to the needs of her men and women, protective of her workers and entrepreneurs, accountable to her electorate and sensitive to the multi-cultural and religious adherents. We must encourage creativity and innovation, peaceful coexistence, economic prosperity, popular political participation, educational excellence, cultural revival, social rejuvenation, public accountability, religious tolerance and ethical revolution. We must punish corruption, ostracize greed, arrest the rising insecurity and discourage impudence. In these all, Nigeria must see all people as her citizens and all citizens must see Nigeria as their country. To take Nigeria to a safe Haven we must internalise Nigeria. When we see ourselves as Nigerians only, we confine ourselves to being only adjectives, but when we elevate ourselves from Nigerians to Nigeria, we become a hybrid of a country, a nation and a people with a unique goal of saving our country from our unpatriotic countrymen. The Sahara Desert is encroaching, the Atlantic Ocean is not cheap to reclaim, Togo and Benin are not going off the map, Cameroon is taking Bakasi, Niger and Chad are not palatable, why don’t we stick to our Nigeria where the land is green, the rivers are flowing, the mountains are not erupting, and make things work? Our optimism should act as fuel that will generate the voltage for our hi-tech launch to greatness. The next centenary should meet us as a promised land and not a museum or an archeological artifact. Concluded. • Wakdok is an economist and a blogger who wrote in from Abuja via sammyybest@yahoo.com.