The Nation January 18, 2013

Nigeria’s widest circulating newspaper

Salami: Judge fixes March 11 for verdict

Fire razes 50 shops in Ibadan market

NEWS Page 6

NEWS

Page 8

•Traders count losses in millions

•Lawyers seek PCA’s reinstatement

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VOL. 8, NO. 2375 FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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•AND MORE ON 23,24&41 •Eagles land in South Africa PAGES •Victor Moses back in training after injury •NFF won’t increase bonus above $10,000

Appeal Court adjourns Tukur-Oyinlola case

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HE Court of Appeal in Lagos has adjourned indefinitely proceedings in an appeal filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), its Chairman Bamanga Tukur, removed National Secretary Olagunsoye Oyinlola and

Obasanjo: Afe Babalola and I ’ve no role in matter

By Eric Ikhilae

National Auditor Bode Mustapha.

They are challenging a May 2, 2012 judgment by Justice Charles Archibong of the

Federal High Court, Lagos, declaring the Chief Adebayo Dayo-led Executive Committee of the party in Ogun State as the authentic management body of the party in the state.

The judgment, aside up-

holding the constitution of the Adebayo Dayo exco, ordered the PDP’s national leadership to support it in the performance of its responsibilities.

Continued on page 4

•COMB AT READ Y: Nigerian troops preparing to depart Kaduna for Mali…yesterday. SEE ALSO PAGES 2,3&64 •COMBA READY

PHOTO: AFP

Nigeria goes to war in Mali Senate okays deployment of 1,200 troops

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IGERIA is deploying 1,200 troops in Mali, where a war is raging to flush out insurgents from the North.

President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday got the Senate’s nod for the deployment, which is to stave off the incursion of terrorists, who are already troubling some northern states

FOREIGN FORCES IN MALI

•France 1,400 troops •Chad 2,000 troops •Nigeria 1,200 troops •Senegal, Burkina Faso, Niger and Togo (500 troops each) •Benin 300 •Ghana, Guinea and Chad also to send troops •UK (two C17 cargo planes) •US (communications help) •Belgium and Denmark also sending transport planes •French Mirage and Rafale jets, Gazelle helicopters From Onyedi Ojiabor, Vincent Ikuomola and Sanni Onogu, Abuja

through the Boko Haram.

The President will today attend an extra-ordinary session of the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government in Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire,

where the regional block’s full troops deployment will be approved.

Dr. Jonathan will be accompanied by Defence Minister of State Mrs. Olusola Obada and Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim.

Nigerian troops are to serve in the African-

led International Support Mission to Mali (AFISMA) for “limited combat duties”.

Jonathan’s request for the Senate’s approval was contained in a nine-paragraph letter entitled “Notification to the Senate on the deployment of members of the Armed Forces on a limited combat duty to Mali and request for consent”.

The January 16 letter was read by Senate President David Mark and debated by the lawmakers who gave their consent unanimously.

Jonathan said: “Having satisfied myself that our national security is under imminent threat or danger as a result of the crises in northern Mali, I, in consultation with the National Defence Council, approved the deployment of a contingent of 1,200 members of the Armed Continued on page 4

•USAID BACKS FARMERS WITH $3B P11 •BENIN NNPC DEPOT BACK P63

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

2

NEWS WAR IN MALI

Hostages, captors killed in Algeria •From left: Kaduna State Deputy Governor Ambassador Nuhu Bajoga, Vice President Namadi Sambo, Minister of Health Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu and Senior Special Assistant to the President on Millennium Development Goals (MDGs Dr. Precious Kalamba Gbeneol, at the stakeholders’ briefing on the Application of the United Nations MDGs Acceleration Framework at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja ... yesterday.

•Senator Oluremi Tinubu (middle), being congratulated by Ekiti State Governor Dr Kayode Fayemi on the conferment on her the Fellow of the College of Education, Ikere-, at the institution’s 21st Convocation Ceremony in Ikere-Ekiti ... yesterday. With them is Governor Fayemi’s wife, Bisi...yesterday.

•From left: Adamawa State Governor Vice Admiral Murtala Nyako, Chairman of Forte Oil Mr Femi Otedola, Minister of National Planning Dr, Shamsudeen Usman and Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, at the meeting of the Economic Management Team at the Presidential Villa, Abuja... yesterday.

PHOTO: AKIN OLADOKUN

•British PM kicks

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OREIGN hostages being held by Islamist militants at a gas plant in Algeria were feared to have been killed with reports of several casualties from a raid by Algerian forces yesterday.

An “ongoing operation” was under way at the remote desert facility where dozens of workers – including three Americans – were being held, Britain’s Foreign Office said. It gave no further details.

Bristish Prime Minister, David Cameron expressed surprise that the Algerian government kept everybody in the dark before it struck.

Two Britons were feared killed in the air strike by the Algerian forces.

In France, President Francois Hollande declined to give specific details about the Algerian operations, but alluded that it was nearly over.

“This all seems to be heading towards an end in dramatic conditions,” Hollande said before a speech to business leaders.

Unconfirmed reports from local sources cited by Reuters and The Associated Press said hostages and militants had been killed in the operation, but reporting on the number of casualties differed wildly.

Earlier, some of those being held reportedly escaped from the plant, near In Amenas, close to the Libyan border.

United States (U.S.) officials called the hostage situation in Algeria “murky” and “extremely fluid”. The officials said the U.S. is working with the government of Algeria and other affected nations to try to resolve the situation as quickly and securely as possible.

“We're all concerned about any innocent lives that are at stake here.

So, we are all working together on this,” State Department spokesperson Victoria Nuland said.

Nuland did not say how many Americans were involved.

An Ireland government spokesman said yesterday that an Irish national held at the In Amenas gas

Minister at EU talks, warns of ‘global threat’

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•Petroleum Resources Minister Mrs Diezani Alison-Madueke cutting the tape for the reinauguration of Benin Depot of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). She is flanked on the left by Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole and the Group Managing Director of the Corporation , Mr Andrew Yakubu ... yesterday.

plant had “made contact with his family and is understood to be safe and well, and no longer a hostage.”

Islamists stormed the natural BP Gas Plant pumping site and workers' housing before dawn on Wednesday and claimed to have seized 41 foreign workers - from countries including the U.S., France, Ireland, Britain, Japan and Norway – and local employees.

The Associated Press, citing claims from militants, said the site was attacked on yesterday morning by Algerian military helicopters.

Islamist militants have told a Mauritanian news outlet that Algerian military helicopters strafed the gas complex where they are holding hostages, killing 35 of the foreigners and 15 of the kidnappers.

The spokesman for the Masked Brigade, which had earlier claimed responsibility for the Wednesday assault on the gas complex deep in the Sahara desert, said that Abou El Baraa, the leader of the kidnappers, was also killed in yesterday’s air raid.

The information came from the Nouakchott Information Agency, which has often carried reports from alQaida-linked extremist groups.

A local resident near the plant told Reuters the Algerian military had opened fire, and that “many people” were killed.

The resident, who asked not to be identified, said there were many bodies at the scene.

He did not give firm numbers of the dead or say whether they were kidnappers, hostages or both.

French wire service Agence France Press also said an Algerian helicopter was attacking the facility.

Twenty hostages of an Algerian militant group with ties to al Qaeda in a standoff with the Algerian Army are reported to have escaped yesterday.

The militants have demanded an end to the French military campaign in Mali, where hundreds of French paratroopers and marines are launching a ground offensive against rebels a week after Paris began firing on militants from the air.

ALIIAN Foreign Minister Tieman Coulibaly yesterday warned the presence of Islamists linked to al-Qaeda in the North of the conflict-torn West African nation constitutes a “global threat.”

“Today, it’s a question of mobilising the international community in its entirety to come to our help in our country, but also to come to the aid of the whole region because what is happening in Mali represents a global threat,” Coulibaly told a press conference after joining emergency talks with European Union (EU) Foreign Ministers in Brussels, Belgium.

With reference to an ongoing raid on a remote desert gas field in Algeria, where initial reports said dozens of hostages and kidnappers died, Coulibaly said “jihadists” op-

erating in the region were part of an international “drug trafficking” organisation.

Simply a “criminal enterprise,” he said, adding that their actions had “nothing to do with politics” and amounted to a “genuine threat to civilisation.

After the meeting Coulibaly said it was necessary to mobilize “the entire international community” to help Mali and the region.

“What is happening in Mali is a global threat,” Coulibaly told journalists at a press conference. “Remember what happened on Sept. 11,” he said, referring to the terrorist attacks in the United States (U.S.).

“It is that terrorism can happen anywhere, at any moment, to anyone.”

He pointed out that the hostage-taking in Algeria revealed to the world the true nature of the extremists.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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NEWS WAR IN MALI

US advocates political solution

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•Malian police frisking a resident at a check-point near Bamako Senou Airport ...yesterday PHOTO: AFP

‘

In France, President Francois Hollande declined to give specific details about the Algerian operations, but alluded that it was nearly over. This all seems to be heading towards an end in dramatic conditions

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HE United States (U.S.) Embassy in Algiers, the Algerian capital has issued an emergency message to its nationals in the country to “review their security”.

Countries including France and Britain have been on heightened terrorist alert since French forces went into action in Mali last Friday.

There are fears that the new front in the war against terror could prompt further Islamist revenge attacks on Western targets, especially in Africa, where al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) operates across borders in the Sahara desert.

French President Francois Hollande launched the surprise operation in its former West Afri-

‘

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Helping Malian forces regain ground will involve Algeria.

“It has a military that knows the terrain,that knows the players, that has dealt with this before. And so it is going to be absolutely critical to get them engaged,” noted Jennifer Cooke, with the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

Algeria and the U.S. are working to bring moderates among the Northern rebels into a political solution. Ambassador Carson said that is essential.

“Equally important for us, as well as for the people of Mali, is that they move forward in an expeditious manner as quickly as they can to put in place a roadmap and the United States is pushing for elections by April,” said Carson.

Cooke says that is unlikely given the weakness of the transitional government in Bamako.

“There’s so little trust right now in any political structure in Bamako that it’s going to take I think a lot of external pressure and external support and oversight to make that work,” she stated.

If Mali’s transitional leaders are unable to organise elections by April, there will be outside pressure for a reconstituted interim administration with less military influence and greater participation from the North.

...Warns citizens on security

BATTLE GROUNDS •Banamba •Diabaly •Konna •Gao •Kidal •Lere •Douentza ROM being a blank spot on the map, the Sahara now looks like a springboard for the advance of militant Islam. Until recently Mali was famous only for its music and for Timbuktu — our nickname for nowhere.

Suddenly the French are invading this huge, poor, sparsely populated, landlocked African country, much of which is empty desert. Britain is helping them (if we can get our aircraft to fly).

Just a couple of years ago Mali was held up by Western aid donors as a success. It had been relatively democratic since the Malians overthrew a dictatorship in 1992. And despite being poor — its main earners are gold and cotton — it functioned better than many of its neighbours. But last March there was a coup and now its Government is ineffective. What went wrong?

First, the Government was not in fact as good as the donors proclaimed. Basking in Western aid and praise, it became complacent, corrupt and did not deliver development, especially in the poor North of the country. Sensing discontent among the population, a young army captain, Amadou Haya Sanogo, seized power last year. Although he was forced to accept a civilian president and prime minister and prepare the country to return to democratic rule, he remains a powerful but unaccountable player.

Second, the North of the country, the Sahara desert, has been home to Salafist rebels pushed out from Algeria in the late 1990s and targeted by militant Islamist movements inspired and funded

by Saudi Wahhabi Islamic fundamentalists, preaching jihad against the West.

Like many, my first reaction was that they were welcome to live in the desert.

HE United States (U.S.) is advocating a political solution in Mali while backing French military strikes against Islamist militants in the North of the troubled West African nation.

Sharing French military goals in the fight against Islamist militants, the Barack Obama administration has pledged to help the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) troops.

On Tuesday, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton discussed that support with Liberian President Mrs. Ellen Johnson- Sirleaf.

“The Secretary did outline the support that we are prepared to offer to ECOWAS countries, as she did make clear that we support the French forces and that we are looking at how best to respond to the requests that they’ve made as well,” said State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland.

With rebels in Northern Mali linked to al-Qaida, the conflict holds risks for security across the region.

“This constitutes not just a threat against a sovereign state but potentially a trans-national threat that can move across the borders into Niger, into Burkina Faso, into Mauritania, into Senegal as well as Algeria and other places,” added Johnnie Carson, U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs.

can colony last Friday, with hopes of stopping al-Qaida-linked and other Islamist extremists he believes pose a danger to the world.

The attack began with the ambush of a bus carrying employees from the gas plant to the nearby airport, but the attackers were driven off, according to the Algerian government, which said three vehicles of heavily armed men were involved.

“After their failed attempt, the terrorist group headed to the complex’s living quarters and took a number of workers with foreign nationalities hostage,” said the statement, adding that authorities were following the situation very closely.

Today Mali, tomorrow Nigeria for al-Qaeda What damage could they do there? But the desert, flat and empty, is also like a sea, in that people can cross with few natural obstacles and no visible state boundaries. It is perfect for smuggling money, drugs, cigarettes, guns and people across vast distances and several borders. Foreigners were, and still are, often kidnapped.

The desert was also home to the Tuareg, tough camel-riding nomads with their distinctive blue turbans, who managed the trans-Sahara trade.

Traditionally they were like an aristocracy, keeping themselves apart from the black Africans to the south and frequently enslaving them. But droughts in the 1980s and 1990s destroyed their herds, and many of the young Tuareg went north to join Colonel Gaddafi’s Army.

When he was overthrown in 2011, they grabbed as much weaponry as they could and headed back to Mali, planning to seize the North and declare it an independent country called Azawad. They found well-funded allies in the Islamists and launched their rebellion in January last year, pushing the Malian Army back before taking the entire North of the country and declaring it independent shortly after Captain Sanogo’s coup.

The Tuareg may have had the guns but the Islamists had the money and a strategy. The Islamists also started destroying historic Islamic shrines and, apparently, the ancient libraries of Timbuktu. Well armed and

‘

But the biggest prize would be the destabilisation of Nigeria to the southeast, shortly to take over from South Africa as Africa’s biggest economy and chief foreign supplier of oil for the US.

‘

battle-hardened, they then turned on their Tuareg allies and routed them. The Tuareg nationalists have now called off their demand for an independent state but they have made themselves unpopular.

Suddenly from being a blank space on the map, the Sahara from Senegal in the west to Somalia in the east is beginning to look like the springboard for a new Islamist offensive by AQIM (al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb) and other Islamist groups. Mali borders seven African countries; next-door Niger, an equally fragile state, another five. According to Africa Confidential, a well-respected newsletter, the Islamists are targeting Mauritania next, with its rich fishing grounds and mineral wealth, and then Niger, which has ura-

nium and oil.

But the biggest prize would be the destabilisation of Nigeria to the southeast, shortly to take over from South Africa as Africa’s biggest economy and chief foreign supplier of oil for the US. Nigeria already has its own Islamist insurgency, Boko Haram, which has received weapons and training from AQIM. In 2010 Boko Haram bombed the UN headquarters in the capital, Abuja, in the centre of the country, and has attacked churches and government buildings in northern cities. But it has not yet hit targets in the mainly Christian south.

There are reports that the Islamist groups are fighting among themselves, which may happen if all the attacks are in Muslim areas. Most of this part of Africa was traditionally Sufi Islamic — tolerant of local practices that are blasphemous to strict Wahhabi Islam.

Shrines and tombs of local holy men and saints are now being desecrated and women forced to stay at home and wear the full hijab in public.

In Mali women have traditionally played a substantial role in public affairs and dressed in bright colours, their hair often uncovered. But today they wear black or drab green or brown and are forced to stay at home and are only allowed to meet a man if accompanied by a male relative.

Last week Islamist rebels in Mali began to advance south towards the capital, Bamako, taking the key town of Konna. The French realised that

the Malian Army was incapable of stopping them and launched their own counter-attack by air.

Mali was part of their African estate and until recently France has remained engaged with its former territories far more closely than Britain has. Since 2006 the US has taken the lead on opposing Islamic militancy in Africa, establishing military training missions in most countries bordering the Sahara. One of the most alarming outcomes of the Mali episode is that most of the UStrained troops are reported to have either stayed in their barracks or deserted and joined the Islamists.

But now the US cannot give direct military support to the Mali government because, under US law, it can only give such aid to democracies.

Can this rebellion be stopped by air attacks? Bombing arms dumps and concentrations of rebels may hinder their advance but AQIM can only be quelled by troops on the ground who have the support of locals. At present the Malian Army is weak and lacks morale. That means the French will probably have to provide the core of a force that includes soldiers from other West African countries. They may get help from Tuareg nationalists but they remain untrusted.

Laurent Fabius, the French Foreign Minister, has said the action in Mali would be over “in a matter of weeks”.

These are words he may regret.

•Culled from The Times of London

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

NEWS PDP crisis: Obasanjo, party chiefs for talks From Yusuf Alli, Abuja

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•Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) National Leader Asiwaju Bola Tinubu (third right) with (from left) ACN spokesman ALhaji Lai Mohammed; Mr. Osaro Odemwingle; Senator Chris Ngige; Senior Political Adviser, British High Commission,Robert Fitzpatrick; Head, Poltical Section, Paul Edwards and Senator Abu Ibrahim during a visit to Tinubu by the British High Commission officials in Abuja…on Wednesday

Appeal Court adjourns Tukur, Oyinlola’s case Continued from page 1

Yesterday, the appellate court adjourned indefinitely upon being served with a copy of a petition written to the Acting President of the Court of Appeal, Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa, by the Dayo-led Ogun PDP, alleging possible bias on the part of the panel headed by Justice Amina Augie.

The petitioners alleged that former President Olusegun Obansanjo purportedly promised to exploit the influence of his lawyer, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), to ensure that his faction of the Ogun PDP wins the legal battle. The petitioners also referred to a purported a meeting between Babalola and Justice Augie.

Reading the petition in the court yesterday, a furious Justice Augie denied any relationship between her and either Babalola or Obasanjo. She denied all allegations made against them in the petition.

“I do not know Afe Babalola.

I have no dealings with him. I do not know Obasanjo. I have no dealings with him,” Justice Augie said. She said the petition was intended to deliberately rubbish the reputation of the jus-

Obasanjo: Afe Babalola and I have no role in matter

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ORMER President Olusegun Obasanjo yesterday said he has nothing to do with the matter before the Lagos Division of the Court of Appeal involving the Ogun State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP), Mr. Adebayo Dayo and faction leader of the party Senator Dipo Odunjirin.

Obasanjo denied securing an assurance from the presiding Justice to influence the outcome of an appeal pending before it.

In a statement by his Media Assistant, Mr Vitalis Ortese, the former President said the allegation by Adebayo Dayo that he had through his lawyer, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), got such assurance from the Justice was a “tissue of lies” and “falsehood” being propagated by Adedayo Bayo for “deplorable and regrettable reasons”.

The statement reads: “The attention of H.E. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former Prestices handling the case.

Justice Augie came down heavily on the lawyer to the respondents, Ajibola Oluyede, for allegedly failing to restrain his clients. She threatened to place Oluyede in the court’s black book and prevent him from further appearing before the court in any other case.

Justice Augie later took back

Ernest Nwokolo, Abeokuta

ident of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has been drawn to an allegation published on page 12 in the Punch Newspapers of Thursday 17 January 2013, and on page 62 of The Nation of the same date, that one “Adebayo Dayo” in a petition dated January 15, 2013 and addressed to the President of the Court of Appeal, alleged that the former president had through his lawyer, Chief Afe Babalola, secured an assurance from the presiding Justice of the Lagos Division of the Appeal Court to influence the outcome of an appeal pending before it in Lagos.

“The allegation is nothing but a tissue of lies. The former President has nothing to do with the case in question and has neither spoken with Chief Afe Babalola on any such case nor given him any money to ever give to any judge in respect of the case.”

the threat, after apologies by Oluyede. She urged lawyers to realise that a dent on the court’s image affects them too, because the court is where they ply their trade.

She said the petition was not only challenging the integrity of the court, but also the competence of the petitioner’s lawyer.

Justice Augie said by petition-

ing the court’s highest authority and querying the integrity of the Justices handling their case, Oluyede’s clients were also not confident of his ability to handle their case without interference.

Justice Augie later directed that the case be called, following which the appellant’s lawyer, Kunle Kalejaiye (SAN),

•Tukur

condemned the petition, saying “this is a new style that ought to be condemned.”

Oluyede denied being a party to the petition. He said the dimension taken by the case and parties must have been informed by its nature, being a political case.

Justice Augie, in a ruling, held that the court will adjourn indefinitely to await the outcome of Justice Bulkachuwa’s decision on the petition. Named as respondents in the appeal are plaintiffs in the original suit Chief Adebayo Dayo and Alhaji Semiu Sodipo (for themselves and on behalf of the Ogun State Executive Committee of the PDP).

Boko Haram: Nigeria goes to war in Mali Continued from page 1

Forces to serve in the Africanled force (AFISMA) in Mali for limited combat duties.

“Nigeria is currently facing daunting security challenges and given its proximity to the Sahel region, the crisis in Mali, if not brought under control, may spill over to Nigeria and other West African countries with negative consequences on our collective security, political stability and development efforts.

“As a responsible member of the international community and given our recent experiences with insurgency and terrorist activities, especially in the northern parts of the country, I felt compelled to urgently approve the deployment of Nigerian troops.

“The deployment of Nigerian troops is in line with Security Council Resolution 2085(2012) and is necessitated by the need to combat armed and terrorist groups, including Al-Qaida in the Islamic Magreb (AQIM) and their activities, as well as proliferation of weapons from within and outside the region with grave

ORMER President Olusegun Obasanjo may intervene in the crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday.

At the instance of some party bigwigs, Obasanjo is expected to hold talks with National Chairman Bamanga Tukur and sacked National Secretary Olagunsoye Oyinlola.

According to sources, some leaders of the party have approached the former President to resolve the crisis between Tukur and Oyinlola, who are considered to be his long-time associates.

Tukur, who is accused of sending a secret tape of a meeting held by the Governors Forum to President Goodluck Jonathan, has denied the accusation.

It was learnt that after a civic reception for Obasanjo on Saturday, he may meet the warring leaders of the party under a “restricted atmosphere”.

A source in the party said: “There is pressure on Obasanjo to save the party from brinkmanship, despite the fact that some stakeholders are against him.

“We still see him as a conscience of the party. He is likely to meet with Tukur and Oyinlola to douse the tension in the party.

“After preliminary reconciliation, a larger meeting of stakeholders in the party will hold to put this crisis behind us. Certainly, President Goodluck Jonathan Continued on page 63

APOLOGY We refer to an advertorial, which appeared on page 62 of yesterday’s edition and state that the publication was in no way intended to impugn on the integrity of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Chief Afe Babalola (SAN) who we respect so much.

The said advertorial does not in any way represent the opinion of this newspaper and its management.

Any discomfort it may have caused Chief Obasanjo and Chief Babalola is regretted.

—Editor

Army chief: we’re trailing Mali-trained militants in Nigeria

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ALI-TRAINED militants are in Nigeria, Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika said yesterday.

He said security agencies are working together to track down the militants.

The Army chief spoke at the Nigerian Army Peacekeeping Centre (NAPKC), Jaji, Kaduna State, shortly after Nigerian troops to the African-Led International Support Mission to Mali (AFISMA) departed. He added that internal security measures and security of neighbouring countries were being stepped up.

The Army chief said, “aware of the influx of some chaps trained in Mali into the country”, Nigeria is enhancconsequences on the security and stability in the northern parts of Mali and beyond, including Nigeria.

“In view of the foregoing, the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is respectfully invited to exercise its powers under Section 4(5) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as (amended) and to consent to the deployment of a contin-

From Tony Akowe, Kaduna

ing its own security and that of its immediate neighbours while participating in the peacekeeping operation in Mali.

He said: “Nigeria will not only be supporting the resolution of the international community, it will be enhancing its own security and that of its immediate neighbours by undertaking this operation.”

“What we are going into could be described as peace enforcement; that is, to bring peace with the use of force. And as to whether the operations will be conventional or insurgency, the troops should have a mixture of both because of the character of the rebels in the area,” Gen. Ihejirika said.

He said the Federal Government had made adequate provision for the welfare

gent of 1,200 members of the Armed Forces to serve in the African-led force (AFISM)in Mali on limited combat duties.”

Jonathan invited the Senate to note the United Nation’s Security Council’s concerns on the continuing deteriorating humanitarian and security situation in the north of Mali, which is further complicated by the presence and entrench-

of the soldiers adding that gone were the days when “the welfare of our soldiers was an issue.”

“We solved this problem (of welfare) some years back by ensuring that every soldiers is paid through the bank, so, before soldier move for a mission, they open accounts in which a certain percentage of their allowances will be paid while they are given some stipends, so the issue of welfare will not arise,” he added.

Gen. Ihejirika asked the 900 soldiers who underwent the four weeks pre-deployment training at the NAPKC to be resolute, dedicated and disciplined, pointing out that the training they received was designed to refresh, polish and add some knowledge and expertise in their various fields.

ment of armed and terrorist groups, including Al-Qaida in the Islamic Magreb (AQIM) and their activities; the proliferation of weapons from within and outside the region; the consequences of instability in the northern parts of Mali on the region and beyond; and the need to respond swiftly to preserve stability across the Sahel region.

He drew the attention of the

Senate to the resolutions of the Security Council on the crisis in Mali, particularly Resolution 2071 (2012), which declared its readiness to respond to Mali’s request for an international military force; Mali’s request to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for military assistance, and ECOWAS letter of 28th September 2012 to the UN Secretary General, requesting

•Dr. Jonathan

a Security Council resolution authorising the deployment of a stabilisation force in Mali under Chapter VII mandate of the United Nations Charter.

He recalled that while unanimously adopting Resolution 2071 and Resolution 2085, the Continued on page 63

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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NEWS Fasehun slams Fed Govt on pipeline vandalism

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HE President of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), Dr. Frederick Fasehun, yesterday blamed the Federal Government for pipeline vandalism in the Southwest.

Fasehun, who was addressing reporters in Lagos, decried the Federal Government’s inability to provide security for shorelines and pipelines in the Southwest states.

He said OPC has never been hired by any government agency to secure pipelines despite its effort to ensure that the government should sign a deal with it to be in charge of the security of pipelines.

He said the congress has proposed to the Federal Government through the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to give it an approval to secure pipelines in the Southwest.

The OPC President alleged that investigation by his men has shown that the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, State Security Service (SSS), Nigeria Police, Nigeria Civil Defence Corps (NCDC), NNPC, Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR), among others

By Jeremiah Oke

are responsible for pipeline vandalism in the country.

He said: “The accusation against the OPC by the NCDC is unfounded, contradictory, diversionary and mischievous. For the avoidance of doubt, OPC has never been hired to provide security for pipelines or any other petroleum installations. Our investigation has shown that a cartel is behind pipeline vandalism and petroleum product pilfering in the country. This cartel includes unscrupulous officers and officials of the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, SSS, Nigeria Police, Nigeria Civil Defence Corps, NNPC, DPR, among others.

“OPC hereby states categorically that our members are not involved in any pipeline vandalism in parts of Lagos and Ogun states or any area in the Southwest.

“OPC has in the last two years presented to the Federal Government, through the Pipelines and Products Marketing Company (PPMC), an arm of the NNPC, a proposal to provide security for pipelines in the Southwest.”

•Babalakin speaking with reporters at the Ikeja High Court... yesterday.

EFCC vs Babalakin: Court adjourns hearing till Feb 25

2015: Okorocha may dump APGA for mega party From Okodili Ndidi, Owerri

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OVERNOR Rochas Okorocha of Imo State may dump the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and join the mega party to pursue his political ambition in 2015.

Investigations by The Nation showed that the governor’s decision to abandon APGA for the new party emerging in June might not be unconnected with the problems plaguing APGA. It was also learnt that some of the governor’s aides and political associates are brainstorming to know the way forward as regards his political ambition in 2015, especially his rumoured ambition.

Speaking with our reporter, a source in the governor’s camp, who does not want his name in print, said: “Inasmuch as I cannot tell whether the governor is joining the mega party or not, I can tell you that some people are wooing him to consider the option, judging by his political antecedent.”

The source added: “APGA is equally an opposition party that has continued to champion the cause of good governance. So it’s not strange if the merging political parties extend consultations to Governor Okorocha, who has worked so hard to build the party.”

Baptists organise workers’ seminar

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AGOS East Baptist Conference will organise a workers’ seminar tomorrow at Yaba Baptist Church, Commercial Road, Yaba, Lagos.

The seminar, which will start at 10 am, is tagged: “Developing a Model of Kingdom Workers”. It will feature top-

ics, such as: “Serving with Accountability In View”, “Mentoring for Kingdom Lifestyle and “Becoming a Mission Entrepreneur”.

Those ministering are, Rev. Ezekiel Nihinlola, Rev. Noah Ayanlere, Rev. Festus Olatunde, Rev. E.A. Awotunde and Rev. E.A. Ayeni.

Museum plans exhibition for Awo, Akintola, others

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HE National Museum of Unity in Ibadan, Oyo State, is planning an exhibition for the political leaders of the defunct Western Region to honour them.

The Deputy Director/Curator of the museum, Mr. Bode Adesina, said in an interview in Ibadan that the objective of the exhibition is to honour past heroes of the region.

He said: “We are planning an exhibition for leaders of the region, like the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the late Chief Ladoke Akintola and others.”

The deputy director/curator said the exhibition, which will be photographic, is meant to honour the leaders for their political, social and economic

contributions to the region.

“The exhibition will serve as a reminder for the generations yet unborn of the contributions of these leaders to the development of the region,” Adesina said.

He said the hall for the exhibition is ready, adding that what remains is landscaping.

The car used by the late Chief Akintola, which had the myth of inexhaustible fuel, will be displayed at the Exhibition Hall.

A similar exhibition was organised in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State capital, for the Military Administrator of the defunct Western Region, Lt.-Col. Adekunle Fajuyi, who was killed in a coup d’etat in 1966.

PHOTO: ADEJO DAVID.

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HE Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) yesterday arraigned the Chairman of Bi-Courtney Ltd, Dr. Olawale Babalakin (SAN) and four others before a Lagos High Court in Ikeja for allegedly conspiring and laundering N4.7 billion for the former Delta State Governor, James Ibori.

Justice Adeniyi Onigbanjo granted Babalakin and the second defendant, Mr. Alex Okoh, bail on self-recognition Babalakin was arraigned with his company, BiCourtney Ltd, the fourth defendant.

The other defendants are Stabilini Visioni Ltd and Renix Nigeria Ltd. They are facing a 27-count on conspiracy to commit felony to wit: corruptly conferring benefit on account of public action contrary to Section 98A (1)(a) of the Criminal Code Law, Cap. C17, Laws of Lagos State 2003; corruptly conferring benefit on account of public action contrary to Section 516 of the Criminal Code Law, Cap. C17, Laws of Lagos State 2003; and retention of the proceeds of a criminal conduct contrary to Section 17(a) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act, 2004.

By Adebisi Onanuga

The offence is said to have been committed between May and December, 2006.

Babalakin and Okoh pleaded not guilty to the charges.

After the plea of the defendants had been taken, counsel to Babalakin, Mr. Wale Akoni (SAN), who led 10 other lawyers, told the court that they had some pending applications before the court for various prayers.

Akoni, urging the court to strike out an application dated January 17, prayed the court to consider their application dated November 29, 2012 and grant his client bail pending the determination of the substantive suit.

He said the bail application was supported by a 14-paragraph affidavit deposed to by Dr. Abiodun Layonu and a written address.

Akoni asked the court to consider Paragraph 3(1)(i-ix) of the affidavit in support of the application and prayed the court to grant Babalakin bail on self-recognition.

He urged the court to consider that the first defendant is a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), a member of the Body of Benchers, Pro-Chancellor, University of Maiduguri and Chairman of

Pro-Chancellors of Nigerian Universities, among others.

He assured the court that the defendant would not jump bail, stressing that he voluntarily came to court.

Mr. Tayo Oyetibo (SAN), counsel to the second defendant, leading six other lawyers, also prayed the court to grant Okoh bail on self-recognition.

Oyetibo, who also said they had a pending application before the court, drew attention to the seventh paragraph of the application.

He said Okoh is a former managing director and financial counsellor to leading banks and financial institutions.

The lawyer said Okoh had been making himself available in court since the matter began and was prepared for trial to clear his name.

Counsel to the fifth defendant, Mr. Oladapo Akinosun, while not against the bail request of the first and second defendants, told the court that they have not received any process and could file no counter motion on the matter.

Counsels to the third and fourth defendants Mr. R.A. Lawal-Rabana and Dr. Joseph Nwobike, did not oppose the requests of other lawyers for bail.

The prosecutor, Mr. Rotimi Jacobs, did not oppose bail, but asked the court to give conditions that would ensure their appearance in court on the adjourned dates.

Justice Onigbanjo gave the defendants and the prosecution 14 days to serve papers, including processes, interlocutory injunctions, counter motions and affidavits in support of their motions.

He adjourned the matter till February 25 for hearing of the interlocutory injunctions.

Dr. Babalakin was driven into the court premises at 10am in a black ML Mercedez Benz Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV).

He was dressed in a navy blue stripped suit and a white shirt with a wine colour stripped tie and black shoes.

Babalakin headed for Justice Onigbanjo’s court, sat near the dock and conferred with his lawyers.

He was cool throughout the almost two hours that the trial lasted and betrayed no emotion.

The court was filled up.

Babalakin’s relations, friends, associates and BiCourtney workers were around to show solidarity.

He left the court in the same vehicle that brought him about 12.25 pm.

Slain Gombe lawmaker buried

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HE remains of the slain Gombe State House of Assembly Minority Leader Abdulhamid Waziri Doho, who was shot dead by unknown gunmen in his home, were yesterday buried in Gombe.

Waziri was a member of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and represented Kwami West.

A family source said Doho is survived by three wives and 23 children, most whom are

From Vincent Ohonbamu, Gombe

young.

Addressing reporters in her Gombe home, his second wife Hajia Maijidda said her husband received an envelope containing two bullets, a phone number and a handwritten letter with a message: “Here are two bullets; the third is for you.”

Hajia Maijidda said Doho made frantic efforts to reach the

person through the phone number, but could not reach him.

She said the matter was not reported to the police, adding that her husband left everything to Allah.

Hassan, the eldest son of the deceased, urged relatives and friends of the deceased to leave everything to Allah.

He said: “God gives and God takes; every soul must taste death.”

Hajia Fatimah, the first wife,

prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul.

The Gombe State Government has imposed a partial ban on the movement of motorcycles from 5pm to 6am.

A statement by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Abubakar Sulei Bage, said the ban takes immediate effect.

It urged the residents to cooperate with security operatives to enforce the ban for the security of life and property.

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THE NATION FRIDAY JANUARY 18, 2013

NEWS

Salami’s reinstatement: Court fixes March 11 for judgment

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Federal High Court in Abuja will, on March 11, rule in a suit by 11 plaintiffs seeking the reinstatement of Justice Isa Ayo Salami, former President of the Court of Appeal.

Justice Adamu Bello fixed the date after parties adopted their written addresses.

The plaintiffs are: Mr. Jitobo Akanike, Idris Musa, Allens Agbaka, Ibrahim Bawa, Princewill Akpakpan , Obruche Ayeteni, Nosa Ihaza, Timothy Odumosu, Stewart Salomi, Egogo Lawrence and Maxwell Adeniran.

They sued for themselves and on behalf of the Registered Trustees of the Centre for the Promotion of Arbitration.

The defendants are President Goodluck Jonathan, the AttorneyGeneral of the Federation and Justice Minister, Mohammed Adoke (SAN), the National Judicial Council (NJC) and Justice Salami.

Adopting the plaintiffs’ written address yesterday, Akanike urged the court to hold that Jonathan has breached the Constitution by disregarding the recommendation of the National Judicial Council

From Kamarudeen Ogundele, Abuja

(NJC) to reinstate Justice Salami.

He prayed the court to declare that the NJC is the only body that can exercise disciplinary powers over the Justices of the Court of Appeal and/or the President of the Court of Appeal.

He also prayed the court to direct the NJC to implement the recommendations of its three-man panel, which advised the recall of Justice Salami.

Jonathan and Adoke yesterday urged the court to dismiss the suit because the plaintiffs lack the locus standi to begin the action.

Their counsel, Matthew Echo, said the plaintiffs have not shown any authority granted it by the trustees of the Centre for the Promotion of Arbitration.

He argued that the reliefs are indeterminable as they are merely academic, urging the judge to dismiss the plaintiffs’ originating summons.

Counsel to the NJC, Dr. A. A. Kanah, “urged the court to arrive at a decision that will best serve the interest of justice.”

But, Salami’s counsel, A.O. Mohammed (SAN), aligned with the submission of the plaintiffs, when he persuaded the court to dismiss the defendants’ preliminary objection “as not representing the current status of the law on locus standi.”

Mohammed told the court that the NJC had “also admitted that it has the power to discipline judicial officers.”

He also agreed with the plaintiffs that “this court has the inherent jurisdiction to grant an order of mandamus compelling the third defendant to perform its constitutional duty, to save the judiciary from ridicule.”

Mohammed added: “The failure to reinstate the fourth defendant and the continuous appointment of an Acting President of the Court of Appeal is undoubtedly affecting the smooth running of the court.

“This case has provided a golden opportunity for this court to urgently redress the constitutional blunder committed by the National Judicial Council, which has ridiculed and embarrassed the Judiciary.

“The more fundamental problem confronting the Judiciary now arising from the mishandling of the unfortunate suspension and recall of the fourth defendant can re-assert itself as the third arm of the government to exercise its exclusive constitutional powers and regain the much eroded public confidence in the judiciary.”

But the NJC, in its written address to the plaintiffs’ originating summons, said: “The exercise of disciplinary power and recall of a suspended Justice of the Court of Appeal is exclusively vested in the National Judicial Council by the Constitution.

“By the combined provisions of sections 153, 158 (1) of the Constitution, and the National Judicial Council’s power to exercise disciplinary control over Judicial officers contained in Paragraph 21 (1) of the part 1, third schedule of the Constitution, the third defendant is to unilaterally and exclusively exercise disciplinary control over the Judicial officers, which we submit include the taking of any disciplinary measures by way of punishment, for

instance in the form of suspension, and lifting the disciplinary measure taken, for instance in the form of recalling and reinstating the disciplined officer back to his position without recourse of any sort to the President.

“The only instances the third defendant exercises its powers in conjunction with the President is in appointment and removal of judicial officers and do not extend to the third defendant’s disciplinary control over the Judicial officers and reinstatement/recalling of suspended Judicial officers; these, we submit, are residual powers exercisable by the third defendant exclusively.

“The foregoing submission is strengthened by Section 158 of the Constitution as amended which states that the third defendant “shall not be subject to the direction or control of any other authority or person.”

By the provision of Section 158 (1) of the Constitution, the NJC argued that it needs no recourse at all to the President in exercising its powers as expounded above.

ACN slams PDP for disparaging Akande

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HE Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) yesterday slammed the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for calling its chairman, Chief Bisi Akande, an ex-convict.

The party accused PDP of either engaging in blatant mischief or wallowing in grass ignorance.

It said a political prisoner is different from a criminal convict.

In a statement in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, ACN said any attempt to label Chief Akande as an exconvict in a pejorative sense will be an exercise in futility, because, according to the party, he was neither convicted of abuse of office nor for any corruption-related offence by a duly constituted court.

It said the Special Military Tribunal that tried and sentenced hundreds of politicians, including Chief Akande, in the ‘80s, cannot be a reason to label those it tried and convicted as criminal ex-convicts.

It reminded the PDP that the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) ordered its members to boycott the proceedings of the tribunal because it failed to meet the standard of a properly-constituted court.

The party said: “If those who were tried and convicted by military tribunals are deemed to have been properly tried and found guilty of the offences for which they were charged, many of them would not have gone ahead to hold important elective and appointive positions in the polity.

“Outside Nigeria, you have the global icon Nelson Mandela, who was tried,

CORRECTION The Probate Registry Advert on Page 18 of yesterday’s edition should have read Lagos Division, instead of Ikeja Division.

The mix-up is regretted.

found guilty and jailed for life in 1964. Of course, it will be laughable for anyone trying to denigrate Mandela to tag him an ex-convict, except of course that person is a member of the PDP! “Chief Akande, whom the PDP has chosen to pick on in its misguided mudslinging, is an embodiment of honesty, integrity, transparency and decency, who is more of a role model to our youths than most members of the PDP. He served creditably in the private and the public sectors, holding many top posts including that of a governor.

“Today, at 74, those rare attributes that have come to define Chief Akande - honesty, decency, integrity and public service - have become synonymous with him. This is why we are proud to hold him up as our Chairman,” ACN said.

The party advised the PDP to spent its energy on repairing its leaking, tattered umbrella, instead of trying to denigrate a man whom the people respect and hold up as a sharp distinction of mankind, at a time people are increasingly being defined by their vanities rather than the content of their character.

“Part of the reason the PDP has failed Nigeria is that it does not know where to focus its energy. Today in the party, the National Working Committee is fighting the President, and the governors are bent on dealing with the Chairman. The party is crumbling right before the eyes of all Nigerians whom it has pauperised since 1999.

And all it can do is to focus on denigrating a man like Chief Akande.

“Well, we have got news for the PDP: While the legacy of Chief Akande is assured, that of the PDP is not. Therefore, we advise the sinking behemoth to turn its attention elsewhere, as it awaits its waterloo,” ACN said.

•From left: IGI Plc Executive Director, Special Risk, Mr. Sina Elusalin; Director, Apostle Hayford Alile; Acting Secretary, Abiodun Ajifolawe; Chairman, Gen. Yakubu Gowon; and Acting Managing Director, Mr. Rotimi Fashola, at the company’s 20th AGM in Lagos... yesterday.

PHOTOS:ADEJO DAVID

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Oyerinde: Reps to investigate police for professional misconduct

HE House of Representatives has expressed concern over the handling of the investigation into the murder of Olaitan Oyerinde, the Principal Private Secretary to the Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, by the police.

The lawmakers have mandated the House Committees on Justice and Police Affairs to investigate the allegation of professional misconduct against the police.

The committees were given four weeks to report back, with appropriate recommenda-

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

tions to the House.

Pally Iriase (ACN, Edo), who moved the motion under a matter of urgent public importance, said the intervention of the AHouse became necessary as a result of the security of the indigenes of the state.

Governor Oshiomhole had accused the Deputy Inspector- General of Police (DIG) Peter Gana, who was deployed to the state to pur-

sue the case, of deliberately stalling action on evidence provided by the Department of Security Services (DSS).

The lawmaker, however, questioned the reason behind the parade and prosecution of different suspects by the police other than those apprehended by the State Security Service (SSS) that were caught with incriminating materials belonging to the deceased.

Iriase said the allegation of the governor was not only persistent, but had also drawn

comments about the reliability of the police.

He said it was worrisome that the police could neither defend the allegation nor deny authorship of the police report sent to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution, which exposed the alleged shoddiness and criminal cover up perpetrated by the DIG. “It is of concern that the allegation, if proven, contradicts the avowed vision and mission of statements contained in the Code of Conduct document and belies the values espoused therein.

Jonathan felicitates with Anyaoku

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan has congratulated Chief Chukwumeka Anyaoku who turned 80 years today.

The President, in a letter, praised the elder statesman and former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth for his tireless service to the nation.

He said: “On the occasion of your landmark 80th birthday anniversary, which comes up on January 18, I write to heartily felicitate with you and your family on behalf of the government and people of Nigeria.

“In the past four score years of a life of outstanding accomplishment and

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

great personal fulfilment, you have not only served our nation at the highest levels with an uncommon sense of patriotism and unwavering dedication, you have also brought great pride to

Nigeria through your notably successful service as the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth of Nations.

To date, you continue to give of yourself in the service of your fatherland.

“I join your family, friends

and well-wishers to thank Almighty God for your life and to pray that He continues to bless you with robust health and imbue you with His continued guidance, protection and enduring provision.”

NYSC DG berates corps members

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HE level of academic deficiency among corps members has increased as some of them cannot communicate in English language, the Director-General (DG) of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig.-Gen. Nnamdi Okore-Affia, has said.

He said NYSC intends to report institutions whose graduates are deficient, to the regulatory bodies for sanction.

Okore-Affia spoke yesterday in Ilorin, the

From Adekunle Jimoh, Ilorin

Kwara State capital, at the 2013 Batch ‘A’ premobilisation workshop. The theme of the workshop is: “Generating credible data for a perfect mobilisation process.”

He said: “Henceforth, the NYSC management will take cognisance of the approved admission quota of each corps producing-institutions before processing their master lists.”

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

7

CITYBEATS

08033054340, 08034699757 E-mail:- ynotcitybeats@gmail.com

ACN, CPC, others ‘must merge’

•The burning tankers...yesterday

PHOTO: PRECIOUS IGBONWELUNDU

Two tankers in loading bay fire T WO fuel laden tankers were burnt yesterday when fire gutted the loading bay of Petrol-Cargo Limited, Apapa, Lagos.

Rescue workers, it was learnt, had a hectic time fighting the fire.

At the time of filling this reports, the Lagos State Emergency Agency (LASEMA); the state Fire Service; the Merchant Navy and the Police, were battling to quench the fire.

A source told The Nation that the fire started when owners of the tankers, were trying to trans-load Automated Gas Oil (AGO) otherwise known as diesel.

He said: "Nothing is done right in this country. If you look at that place you will see that those

By Precious Igbonwelundu

two trucks were placed side by side and there was also a pumping machine beside them.

"This place is close to the Barracks and you have schools around and residential buildings. Why should the government allow people to load petroleum products in a crowded area like this?

The bay owner, Mr. Emmanuel Eze, denied the allegation that the facility was illegal, saying he has all the necessary documents for operation.

Eze, who spoke through his father, Chief Ikechukwu Eze said he complied with all safety rules in running the bay.

He said: "The bay belongs to

my son who at the moment is out of the country. As you can see, we have lost nothing less than N30million, but we thank God because no life was lost.

"We have a fleet of trucks in the bay and when we load products at the tank farm, the tankers park at the bay pending when they will go to distribute the products.

"What happened was that one of the tanker drivers was supposed to go and distribute the diesel, but unfortunately his truck refused to start and instead of calling an electrician, he decided to do it manually and did not know that the fuel pump was leaking.

"So, when he started it, it caught fire and entered the fuel

Fashola blasts critics of security fund

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OVERNOR Babatunde Fashola yesterday upbraided critics of the Lagos State Security Fund, saying he is ready to meet them in court.

Describing Lagos as the only state that can survive without crude oil revenue, Fashola said he was certain that threats to sue his administration would fail.

He was speaking at the sixth Lagos State Taxation Stakeholders' Conference held at The Haven, Ikeja, Lagos.

Fashola, who did not name the critics, said the security fund initiative has helped the Police to perform their constitutional role.

"They should make my day because we will meet them in

•’Only Lagos can survive without oil’

By Kofoworola Belo-Osagie

court. I think they are getting ready to dance naked in the public. Policemen can't buy uniforms, they cannot buy vehicles; they don't have fuel. The (Lagos State) government gets innovative and says can we get together stakeholders to get fund that produces uniforms, vehicles, guns, and you say that you are opposed to that. You are really opposite people, like Fela said. This same government in Lagos rebuilt the Area C Command when it got burnt, with tax payers' money, and the security fund. But we will meet in court," he said.

Underscoring the importance of tax as a veritable source

of revenue for the government, Fashola said taxes account for 70 per cent of the state's revenue.

He said: "A life without taxes is a lie; let us accept that. All what we have done in the past six years has only been possible with taxes. If they shut oil money, this is the only state that will survive. Some others will first have to adjust.

Seventy per cent of our budget is from tax.

"In 1999 the budget was N14 billion. In 2012, it was N499 billion. In the last six years, no budget put together by this government has performed less than 70 per cent and that is the best record in the country."

Cynthia: Pharmacist's absence stalls trial

By Adebisi onanuga

•The late Cynthia

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HE absence of Orji Osita, the pharmacist alleged to be culpable in the murder of Cynthia Osokogu, yesterday stalled the arraignment of the suspected killers at an Ikeja High Court.

Osita was to be arraigned with Okwumo Echezona

Nwabufo and Ezike Ikechukwu Olisaeloka, while Ezike Nonso Ifechukwu before Justice Olabisi Akinlade. Ifechukwu is charged with receiving stolen goods.

Other defendants were in the court except Osita, who is said to be on bail by a magistrate's court.

The court adjourned the case till February 5.

Last year, Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye had told reporters that those found culpable in Cynthia's death would be tried for murder based on the advice of the

Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).

The DPP's advice to the Deputy Commissioner of Police, D Department, Panti, Yaba was signed by Mrs. M.B. Olaniyi on behalf of the Attorney-General named Nwabufo and Olisaeloka as principal suspects.

They were recommended for trial for murder and stealing, which contravene Sections 231, 221, 409 and 285 (1) of the Criminal Law, No. 11, Laws of Lagos State, 2011.

Ifechukwu is to be tried for receiving stolen property contrary to Sections 326(1) (2) Law of Lagos State.

pump and then into the vehicle tank resulting to fire.

"The promptness of the state fire service and other rescue agencies", Eze said, helped in averting the disaster.

Pupils of a secondary school near the bay were evacuated

by LASEMA officials.

A pupil, who said an explosion followed the fire, said they were initially locked inside the school before rescue team's arrival.

He said: "We heard the sound. It was very heavy but we were not allowed to go out.

We were locked inside the school until security personnel came and asked that we should carry our bags and go home in an orderly manner."

AN Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) chieftain in Lagos Mainland, Alhaji Megida Alao Ibrahim, has urged opposition parties to ensure the success of their on-going merger talks.

Addressing party members and guests at the 40th birthday of his wife, Alhaja Shekinat at Yaba, Lagos, Ibrahim asked parties to put the electorate's interests above theirs.

He said: "The Action Congress of Nigeria and the other opposition parties are capable of addressing the structural problems that had bedevilled the country over the years. This has been demonstrated by the governors of ACN controlled states under the leadership of the National leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu."

Ibrahim, who delivered Commissioner for the Environment, Tunji Bello's goodwill message, praised Governor Babatunde Fashola's efforts at ensuring good governance.

In attendance by were ACN chieftain, Prince Tajudeen Olusi; Hon Wale Oshun; Bashorun Babatunde Ajaga; Oba of Igbobi Sabe; Abdullateef Salami; Otunba Tayo Oyemade; Hon Tunde Larinde; Supervisory Councillors, Yaba Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon Bisi Thomas; Hon Joseph Ojo and Special Adviser on Kick Against Indiscipline (KAI) Dapo Bode Thomas among others.

NAN DG to deliver lecture THE Director-General (DG), News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN), Mrs. Oluremi Oyo, will on Monday deliver a lecture entitled: "The Media, the Church and National Security: Any Synergy? at this year's Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Young Men Christian League anniversary to be held at Ebute-Metta, Lagos.

A statement by the Chairman, Organising Committee, Mr Adekunle Oyesanya (SAN), said the title was informed by the current security enormous challenges.

Oyesanya said the annual lecture is anchored on topical issues affecting the country and which require practical solution to ensure harmonious coexistence among the people.

The lecture is in honour of one the church's Patriarch, Pastor Solomon A. Odunaiya.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

8

NEWS Ekiti murder case: Defence fails in premature application

Fire guts 50 shops in Ibadan market

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

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From Bisi Oladele, Ibadan

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VER 50 shops have been razed at the building materials section of the Ogunpa Market in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The fire, which started around 7:30 pm on Wednesday, raged for hours.

Sources said the fire was caused by an explosion in one of the shops.

Though the fire was contained by fire-fighters on Wednesday night, it was completely put out yesterday afternoon.

Commissioner for Environment Lowo Obisesan conveyed Governor Abiola Ajimobi’s sympathy message to the victims.

• The scene of the fire...yesterday. Inset: Traders and sympathisers on the scene.

PHOTO FEMI ILESANMI

Obisesan’s aide, Mr. Muyiwa Olaore, who represented him, said the government has banned trading in the burnt area until renovation it is renovated.

He said the burnt building could collapse anytime.

The victims cried uncontrollably and lamented their losses.

Mr. Ibrahim Iyiola said he lost about N2 million in the fire.

He said: “We closed around 6pm. A friend phoned me around some minutes to 8pm and said the market was on fire. By the time I got here about an hour later, it was too late to save anything. The fire

caught the ceiling and burnt my wares. I could not save anything.”

Due to the clustered nature of the shops and the flammable items sold there, the area has witnessed several fire incidents.

Another section of the market was burnt three weeks.

Some of the victims alleged that the fire-fighters were late to the scene and did not come with enough water.

The commissioner called for understanding on the ongoing demolition of illegal structures, adding that it would correct some of the environmental challenges.

No education varsity, says Fayemi

Ajimobi: I’m anxious to improve Oyo

•College honours Tinubu, Adeyeye, Olanipekun

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KITI State Governor Kayode Fayemi has said his administration will not establish a University of Education until the state has enough resources to cater for the existing tertiary institutions.

Dr. Fayemi spoke yesterday at the 21st convocation ceremony of the College of Education, Ikere-Ekiti.

Senators Oluremi Tinubu (Lagos Central District) and Sola Adeyeye (Osun Central District) and a legal icon, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), were conferred with the institution’s fellowship award.

Fayemi said his administration merged the three universities in the state to establish a productive university.

He said he would never be a party to the establishment of a “glorified secondary school masquerading as a university”, especially when efforts are geared towards revamping the education sector.

The governor, who had earlier inaugurated the refurbished College Guest House, an ambulance, two buses and two Toyota Corolla cars, said despite the plethora of economic challenges that beset the state, the government has continued to release subven-

From Sulaiman Salawudeen, Ado-Ekiti

tions promptly and implement various welfare packages, including the new salary structure for tertiary institutions.

This gesture, he said, is aimed at making the state’s tertiary institutions “centres of excellence, with high standard of teaching and a culture of sustained learning”.

Decrying the erosion of educational values as seen in the abysmal performance of pupils in public examinations, Fayemi said the various reforms in the education sector were recommended at the 2011 Education Summit.

He said the college has roles to play in the ongoing education reform, especially in the training of teachers.

Fayemi said the award speaks volumes about the credentials of the awardees, who he described as “worthy”.

He urged the 12,100 graduates to be hardworking and worthy ambassadors of the state wherever they go.

Olanipekun hailed the Fayemi administration for “restoring the college” and making laws to back its existence.

He said the college was

“practically non-existent” during the ousted administration of Mr. Segun Oni as the school’s assets and liabilities were transferred to the then University of Education, Ikere and the University of Science and Technology, Ifaki-Ekiti.

Olanipekun agreed with the merger of the three stateowned universities; saying the government could not manage three independent institutions with its meager resources.

Urging Fayemi to continue to support the college’s autonomy, the lawyer pledged to contribute to the institution’s development.

Mrs. Tinubu said the school has improved within the two years of the Fayemi administration.

She said a nation is “as good as the quality of education it invests in its people”.

Also at the event were Fayemi’s wife, Bisi; Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka; Senator Babafemi Ojudu; ViceChancellor of the Ekiti State University (EKSU) Prof. Dipo Aina; Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Prof. Modupe Adelabu and businesswoman Chief Abba Folawiyo, among others.

Ondo PDP suspends Bada

T

HE State Working Committee (SWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has suspended a chieftain of the party, Dr. Oluwadare Bada.

It said the former Director-General of the Olusola Oke Campaign Organisation (OOCO) was suspended for ignoring the party’s directive to explain certain issues concerning his posi-

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

tion as OOCO Director-General.

In a statement, PDP Publicity Secretary Wale Ozogoro said: “The party invited the director several times to answer questions on the campaign expenditure of the October 20, 2012, governorship election to no avail.

“The party frowns at Ba-

da’s anti-party activities and vituperations in the print and electronic media. The working committee has set up a disciplinary committee in line with the party’s constitution to look into these allegations and submit its report within two weeks.”

Bada’s suspension letter was signed by the party’s Secretary Chief Oyedele Ibini and delivered personally to him.

•Senator Ajimobi

O

YO State Governor Abiola Ajimobi has said his administration is anxious to improve the state’s economy within the shortest time possible.

He spoke yesterdayat the International Conference Centre of the University of Ibadan (UI) while opening a two-day retreat organised for commissioners, special advisers, permanent secretaries and heads of nonministerial departments.

The governor, however, said this would require taking a hard look at old established practices, jettisoning practices that had outlived their usefulness and adapting relevant ones to meet the needs of today.

He said at the inception of his administration, he made it clear that the drive for positive change in the lives of the people would be his focus, adding that this drive could only be accomplished through effective public service delivery to the citizenry.

Ajimobi said: “The general consensus appears to be that the public service operates with an impoverished concept of management, which over-emphasizses routine control and neglects other dimensions, such as managing changes and managing relationships within organisations.

“This requires a paradigm shift in the conduct of government business. This explains why our government quickly committed time and money to the re-orientation of the workforce at all levels.”

He said over 13,000 civil and

public servants, including teachers, had undergone several trainings, adding that the government has noticed improvement in service delivery.

Ajimobi thanked workers for their positive response to his government’s vision, adding that “they have allowed themselves to be trained and conformed to our call, vision and style, so that we can fulfil our mandate to the people’’.

He said that the training and re-orientation efforts had been at all levels and that his administration would sustain the tempo.

The governor said the retreat would strengthen the relationship between political office holders, technocrats and bureaucrats for the actualisation of his administration’s vision.

HE defence in the celebrated case of Madam Rebecca Adewumi (70), who was allegedly murdered in Omuo-Ekiti last year, has failed in its “premature request” for the autopsy report and the video recording of the events that led to her death.

Madam Adewunmi was allegedly beaten to death after she was accused of witchcraft.

Chief Dayo Orojo, Mrs. Desola Adewumi, Feranmi Abe and others at large are on trial for their alleged roles in the killing.

The defence team, led by Mr. Lekan Olatawura, made an oral application to “peruse before trial the autopsy report and the video recording of how she was allegedly murdered”.

He said the prosecution failed to “show any prejudice it would suffer, if the court granted the requests”.

Olatawura based his request on the provisions of Section 36 (b) of the 1999 Constitution, saying that he was ready for trial.

The prosecution team, led

by Mr. Peter Alabi, the Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, opposed the application.

He said the defence already had the statements of the witnesses, adding that the application was hasty.

Alabi said sections 36 (b) and (c) did not particularly justify the demands of the defence and urged the court to deny the request, arguing that the defence would have time to do that when trial begins.

He said two of his nine witnesses are not in court and urged the court to give him Witness Summons to compel the two who are public servants, to appear in court.

Justice Oluwatoyin Bodunde of the Ekiti State High Court refused the oral application and ruled that it should wait till trial begins.

She expressed displeasure at the presence of only two prosecution witnesses, adding that the judiciary was interested in the speedy prosecution of cases.

The case was adjourned till March 5.

Oyo Assembly sacks council boss From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

T

HE Oyo State House of Assembly has sacked the Caretaker Committee Chairman of Lagelu Local Government, Alhaji Adebayo Aderemi.

Aderemi was suspended on October 15, 2012 by the Assembly for alleged misconduct.

He was sacked yesterday for disobeying the Assembly’s order. At plenary yesterday, Adeyemi was grilled for several hours by the lawmakers, who found him guilty of parading himself as the caretaker chairman during several media interviews.

Adesina Adeyemo said there were so many crises in the council, which he said were at the expense of the people’s welfare.

Yisau Adesope said Aderemi’s excuse that he was not issued a suspension letter should not be tolerated.

Farintan Fakorede raised the motion for Aderemi’s sack and it was seconded by the majority of members.

The Speaker, Monsurat Sunmonu, told Aderemi to hand over the council’s affairs to the Head of Local Government Administration (HLA).

SURE-P implementation begins in Ondo

T

HE National Directorate of Employment (NDE) has started implementing the Federal Government’s Subsidy Removal Empowerment Programme (SURE-P) in Ondo State.

At a meeting yesterday with

From Damisi Ojo, Akure

desk officers of the programme in Akure, the state capital, Ondo NDE Coordinator Olaitan Olayinka said 40 community leaders would be representing each local government in sourcing community projects.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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NEWS

Ribadu: Aregbesola’s feat unbelievable •Ribadu

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HE candidate of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the 2011 presidential election, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has said the achievements of the Governor Rauf Aregbesola administration in Osun State outweigh the state’s resources.

The former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) spoke in Ila on Wednesday

when he visited ACN National Chairman Chief Bisi Akande on his 74th birthday.

Akande was given an award by the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations, Osun chapter.

Ribadu said Aregbesola’s administrative style was worthy of emulation.

He described the governor as “a reference point for outstanding achievements”, adding that his administration’s policies in education, health, employment generation, infrastructural development, urban renewal and other schemes have made life better for the people.

Ribadu said: “Aregbesola’s

performance in Osun is unbelievable, considering the allocation that is accrued to the state.

“Only a passionate, focused and committed governor with a high sense of prudence and responsibility can achieve such feat in just two years.”

He said he was not surprised by the governor’s performance because ACN is “the only progressive party that is ready to ensure and sustain” good governance in the country.

Ribadu said Nigeria would be a better place, if all governors had Aregbesola’s zeal.

The former EFCC chief said

his coming to Osun was also to thank the people for their support during the 2011 presidential election, adding that he has since counted himself as a member of “dependable Osun communities”.

He said: “Without doubt, you are on top. You are one of the best in Nigeria today. I am not surprised about you or your performance. I have known that you are one of the few, like the man we are celebrating today, who give us hope about the Nigerian nation.

“I am proud of Chief Akande and the people of Osun for the honour done to me. I say thank you to the people of this state and promise never to let you down. I am a very proud member of this community.”

Judiciary is pillar of democracy, says Amosun

O

GUN State Governor Ibikunle Amosun has described the Judiciary as “the pillar of democracy”.

He said as the institution that protects the rights of citizens, it should be adequately equipped to discharge its duties effectively.

Amosun spoke yesterday in Ota during the second day of his three-day assessment tour of courts in the state.

He said besides being the guardian of the constitution, the courts are the last hope of ordinary Nigerians.

The governor said citizens’ rights “are better protected when judicial officers have the necessary tools to aid the dispensation of justice and work in a conducive environment”.

He urged members of the Judiciary to continue to discharge their responsibilities without fear or favour.

Amosun pledged to rehabilitate courts, but said the rot of many years would take some time to remedy.

On the Judges Quarters, he said his administration would provide comfortable apartments for judges .

•Amosun

The governor hailed the initiative of the Joga Community Development Association in Yewa North Local Government to build a High Court in the area.

He said: “Even though we will also build modern structures for the Judiciary, the government alone can not solve all problems.”

Amosun, accompanied by the State Chief Judge, Mrs. Olatokunbo Olopade; Attorney-General/ Commissioner for Justice Wemimo Ogunde (SAN) and top government officials, inspected courtrooms, libraries, registries, judges’ chambers and judges’ quarters at High, Magistrates’ and Customary Courts in Ogun West Senatorial District.

The tour will end today.

Lawmakers deny rift in Oyo ACN

F

EDERAL lawmakers from Oyo State have denied rumours that there is a dispute in the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in the state.

Lawmakers from the two chambers of the National Assembly yesterday declared their loyalty to the party’s State Executive Committee and Governor Abiola Ajimobi.

Speaking with reporters, the lawmakers, led by Mr. Kamil Akinlabi, said there was no reason for calls for the dissolution of the executive committee.

They said news of the purported division was the handiwork of disgruntled politicians to cause disaffection in the state.

Akinlabi exonerated the governor of complicity in the matter, saying: “We believe that as the governor in place when we were nominated as candidates of the party, he could not be

From Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi, Abuja

party to such things.

“This is because the same executive committee nominated everyone of us, including the governor.

“The governor could not have called for the dissolution of the executive.

“We believe such call is misguided and urge Nigerians and the people of Oyo State in particular to disregard it.

“We all know Oyo ACN was formed through amalgamated forces to oust the non-performing preceding government.

“As a result, things like this should be expected, but we are saying that Oyo ACN executive remains sacrosanct and we are passing a vote-ofconfidence in it.

“We are saying it categorically that the governor is not behind the dissolution call. We have confirmed this from him.”

Monarch condemns destructive criticism

C

HAIRMAN of the Council of Obas in Ekiti State and the Owa Ooye of Okemesi Ekiti, Oba Adedeji Gbadebo has described those behind the “destructive criticism” of the Governor Kayode Fayemi administration as “enemies of progress”.

The monarch warned indigenes against joining any plan to “pull down the Fayemi administration”, saying “it was ordained by God because Fayemi is doing the will of the people and that of God.” He said: “If anyone wants to criticise the Fayemi ad-

ministration, it should not be someone from Okemesi Ekiti because what he has done for us in this town in terms of appointment and physical development is unprecedented in the history of any government in Ekiti State.

“There is no town in Ekiti that the government has not touched.”

The monarch debunked the rumour that the governor shares the state’s allocation with him.

He urged the people to be patient and support the governor’s efforts to rebuild the state.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

11

BUSINESS THE NATION

E-mail:- bussiness@thenationonlineng.net

We are advocating the formation of government’s yearly budgets, multilateral agencies funding, five per cent petroleum tax, private sector fund, road bonds, toll charges, among others, into the national road fund for the development of roads infrastructure in Nigeria.

- Mr Mike Onolememen, Minister of Works

Analysts forecast interest rate retention

USAID to support farmers with $3b

•Inflation falls to 12%

From Nduka Chiejina, Abuja

By Collins Nweze

HE United States Agency for Interna tional Development (USAID) will provide $3 billion (about N480 billion) guarantee to farmers who fail to pay back loans they secure from banks.

The agreement for this guarantee was signed yesterday in Abuja. It is expected to ease financing in the agriculture sector.

Under the deal, the United States would immediately provide guarantee of up to $100 million in lending to banks.

Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi and the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Akinwumi Adeshina signed on behalf of the Federal Government while USAID Administrator Dr. Rajiv Shah, signed for the United States.

The agreement will enable the parties to use co-guarantees, technical assistance, combined training and workshops for local banks and agriculturally-linked enterprises to encourage the growth of the agriculture sector in the country.

Shah said the facility would help to increase private financing for the agricultural sector in addition to reducing banks’apathy for agriculture lending.

Shah expressed worry that despite “the promise and success that the future holds for Nigerian agriculture, nearly 70 per cent of small scale farmers lack access to financing.”

T

A

HEAD of Monday’s meeting of the Mon etary Policy Committee (MPC), analysts have forecast that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will leave the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) and Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) unchanged at 12 per cent.

They insisted that until broad-based macroeconomic stability has been achieved, the interest rate would remain unchanged.

MPR is the benchmark rate by which the CBN determines interest rate while CRR is a portion of banks’ deposits kept by banks with the apex bank.

Head African Research Standard Chartered Bank, Razia Khan, explained that with the threat of a higher benchmark crude price being adopted in the 2013 budget, there is likelihood that the CBN will leave the rates unchanged on Monday.

She said there are some interesting points to note about the December inflation figure, which fell to 12 per cent from 12.3 per cent.

According to her, the key driver of Consumer Price Index appears to have been a rise in core inflation – up to 13.7 per cent in December.

“In January, we expect to see an even sharper deceleration in headline inflation, to 10.5 per cent year to year or thereabouts – mainly driven by the base effect from the brief episode of full fuel price deregulation last year.

“In order to adjust monetary policy however, the Monetary Policy Committee will need to be more certain that lower inflation can be achieved on a sustainable basis,” she said.

DATA STREAM COMMODITY PRICES Oil -$107/barrel Cocoa -$2,686.35/metric ton Coffee - ¢132.70/pound Cotton - ¢95.17pound Gold -$1,800/troy ounce Rubber -¢159.21pound MARKET CAPITALISATIONS NSE JSE NYSE LSE

-N6.503 trillion -Z5.112trillion -$10.84 trillion -£61.67 trillion

RATES Inflation -11.7% Treasury Bills -7.08% Maximum lending -22.42% Prime lending -15.87% Savings rate -2% 91-day NTB -15% Time Deposit -5.49% MPR -12% Foreign Reserve $43.5b FOREX CFA -0.2958 EUR -206.9 £ -242.1 $ -156 ¥ -1.9179 SDR -238 RIYAL -40.472

•From left: Deputy Managing Director (DMD), UBA Africa, Mr Emeke Iweriebor; Chairman, UBA Liberia, Prof Dew TuanWleh Mayson; Governor, Central Bank of Liberia, Dr Joseph Mills Jones; GMD/CEO, UBA PLC, Mr Phillips Oduoza and MD, UBA Africa, Mr Emmanuel Nnorom, during Jones’visit to UBA Group’s headquarters in Lagos.

NNPC loses N165b to oil theft, vandalism T HE Pipelines and Prod ucts Marketing Com pany (PPMC), a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), said the corporation lost about N165 billion to petroleum products theft and repairs of vandalised pipelines in four years.

The Managing Director of PPMC, Prince Haruna Momoh, made this known this yesterday while fielding questions from reporters after inaugurating four triple agent fire fighter trucks at Mosimi Training Centre in Ogun State.

He said the corporation was discussing with the National Assembly on the appropriate punishment for vandals.

“We are talking to legislators at the National Assembly on proper sanction and prosecution of people that engage in oil theft and pipeline vandalism. We be-

By Emeka Ugwuanyi

lieve that between now and the end of June, we should be able to come up with s solution,” he said.

He said between 2009 and end of December 2012, the NNPC alone lost about N165 billion, not only on product theft, but to crude oil and vandalism, adding that beside this, lives of workers had been lost to the dastardly act.

“We have also lost lives in the cost of repairing the vandalised pipelines in Arepo. We have lost about five members of staff who were killed while on duty repairing the vandalised pipelines. We, however, call on Nigerians and stakeholders to come together to fight this menace

head-on,” Momoh said.

The PPMC boss said the supply of petroleum products has been robust. “We, at the NNPC, are still keeping the mandatory 30-day national stock reserve as directed by the Minster of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke, but we always have challenges because of the rate at which pipelines are been vandalised, practically on daily basis.

“So, we have challenges in terms of distribution. If only the vandals would allow PPMC to efficiently distribute products across the states, there would be nothing like fuel scarcity.

“We need to restate that looking at economy, the quickest, safest and easiest means of distributing prod-

uct is through the pipeline network,” he added.

He said in a country of about 160 million people, it is through the pipeline that the government can effectively push products rather than engaging trucks as a method of distribution.

“The truck methodology of product distribution has contributed immensely to the challenges confronting effective products distribution across the country. System 2B pipeline is pumping effectively and about 60 to 70 per cent of the country’s petroleum products are distributed through it. Therefore that axis is one of the most important networks in NNPC’s pipelines’ network.

“Some areas prone to vandalism, such as Ijedodo, Imagbon-Ijegun and Arepo would definitely have negative impact on the nation’s products distribution,” he said.

Nigeria can rank 13th among world’s top economies, says report N

IGERIA has the po tential to be the fast est growing economy among the world’s top 20 economies from now to 2050, according to the latest report

by World in 2050.

The growth and placement are, however, premised on the country’s judicious use of its oil and energy resources to develop and improve on its derelict infrastructure.

The country should apply its oil wealth to develop a broader-based economy with better infrastructure and institutions, which will support long term productivity growth, the report indicated.

With a projected Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of about $4 trillion by 2050 and a yearly average real GDP growth rate of around six per cent, as well as a youthful and growing working population, Nigeria is projected to rank 13th among the world’s largest economies, if it can realise its steam.

The report entitled: World in 2050: The BRICs and beyond:

By Simeon Ebulu

prospects, challenges and opportunities, said a growing, prime working age population, together with rising average rates of schooling and technological progress, drive theh country’s strong growth prospect.

A partner with PwC Nigeria, Andrew S. Nevin, said: “Nigeria’s projections for population, education levels and technological progress are very strong. Nigeria lags behind with regard to its investment rate. Productivity is lower in Nigeria due to weaker infrastructure and institutions, as well as an overreliance on oil revenues. By investing in these areas and diversifying its economy, Nigeria can realise its potential by 2050. ”Over the past decade, the private sector has played an enormously positive role in sectors like telecoms, retail, and financial services in Nigeria and throughout Africa.

For Nigeria to realise its potential, it is going to require governments at the state and federal levels to play their role in fostering the right type of environment, including improvements in the rule of law, greater transparency and strengthening of the health and education systems, and enabling the development of key sectors, with power being the most important. Many strides have been made in this regard and they need to keep coming,” he added.

PwC Chief Economist/coauthor of the report, John Hawksworth, said: “The shift in the global economic centre of gravity is clear.

The E7 could overtake the G7 before 2020, and by 2050, China, the US and India could be by far the largest economies – with a big gap to Brazil in fourth place, ahead of Japan. By the same time, Russia, Mexico and Indonesia could be bigger than Germany or the UK;

Turkey could overtake Italy; and Nigeria could rise up the league table, as could Vietnam and South Africa in the longer term.

“There are huge opportunities for Western companies in the emerging markets – but also great competitive challenges from fast-growing emerging market companies.

Governments also face huge challenges, not least in relation to global warming as a result of this rapid pace of economic development,” he argued.

The report lists growth estimates as driven by: Growth in the labour force, as proxied by United Nations projections for working age population; growth in the quality of labour which is assumed to be related to current and projected average education levels in the workforce; growth in the physical capital stock, which is determined by new capital investment less depreciation of the capital stock; and technological progress, which drives improvements in total factor productivity.

WAMZ to inaugurate council From Nduka Chiejina (Asst. Editor)

T

HE West African Mon etary Zone (WAMZ) will today inaugurate a Council to facilitate improved integration of capital markets in the West African sub-region.

This is to boost investment, trade, long-term funding and other economic activities.

In addition, a Technical Committee will be constituted to assist the Council, which would oversee the capacity-building and operational integration agenda among the capital markets in the WAMZ member-countries.

The Acting Director-General of the West African Monetary Institute (WAMI), Dr. John Kitcher, made thsi known at the 28th Meeting of the Committee of Governors of the WAMZ, yesterday in Abuja.

He said the initiative was among the key components of the financial sector reforms agenda being pursued to ensure financial and macroeconomic stability in the West African Sub-region.

Kitcher noted that remarkable progress has been recorded by most West African countries in terms of their efforts to align their monetary and fiscal policy systems with international best practices.

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

Page 13

Email: news_extra@yahoo.com

Nasarawa steps up growth plan

•Governor Al-Makura ASARAWA State Governor Umaru Tanko AlMakura’s plan to develop the state is shaping up, with Mararaba emerging as a prime business district under the new land reforms.

The project, known as Nasarawa Geographic Information System (NAGIS), seeks to regularise and computerise all the state land matters with a view to helping the state provide good roads, water, drainage, grazing routes, among others in its towns and cities.

N

T was a day of joy for members of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in Anambra Central Senatorial zone of Anambra State when the member representing them at the Senate, Senator Chris Ngige, announced a N100m poverty alleviation scheme for the zone.

It was the day the former governor said, “thank you” to members of the party for standing by him during his political battle with former Minister of Information, Prof. Dora Akunyili.

With joy radiating on his face, he said: “This is just the beginning of good things for our great party.

“With the faces we are seeing here today, it means that ACN is still very strong in this state. I have just inaugurated the six-classroom blocks I built at the Federal Government College in Nise, borehole and four toilets. More are still coming.”

Again, he gathered the widows, the less-privileged and the needy in the society in his senatorial zone to give them hope.

Before then, Ngige, alongside the Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on Inter-party Relations, Senator Ben Ndi Obi, and Sir Goddy Ezeemo inaugurated a new ACN office at Amawbia in Awka South Local Government Area.

He told his supporters that the gestures would be replicated in all the seven local government areas in the central senatorial zone, adding, “We are in the spree of openings.”

Continuing, he said: “We are also giving empowerment to our people through skill acquisition and scholarship schemes to each constituency. People will learn soap making, hairdressing, while others will go to school. Everybody must be happy. This is what ACN is all about.

He said that the office which was inaugurated at Amawbia was donated by an admirer of the ACN. On 2013 governorship election, Ngige said: “Man proposes and God disposes, the date is coming.

It is not a long distance but the main thing is that this party is

Mr. Sonny Agassi, a NigerianCanadian serving as head of the reform programme, said that NAGIS will be a major revenue earner for the state, capable of raking in more than N5b monthly from a land size of about 27,000 square kms.

He said NAGIS, which he refers to as “the baby of my boss, the governor,” was initiated following its success story in the FCT where it is raking in about N1.5b monthly from ground rents and other land charges, from a land size of about 8,000 square kms.

“This is His Excellency’s vision, to replicate Abuja in Nasarawa, and turn around the state as a twin city to Abuja with livable features. We want to create the Maitamas, the Asokoros, and Wuse IIs in Nasarawa, to take Nasarawa close to the 21st Century.

“Our land interlocks with Abuja, at Mararaba in Karu, yet there is no advantage to us other than that much of the working population in Abuja has found a home in Nasarawa. This makes us look like a dormitory.

“His Excellency’s vision is to turn

From Johnny Danjuma, Nasarawa

things around, take advantage of the proximity we enjoy with Abuja, and make the area an ambitious and dependable revenue source, to remove our reliance on the federally-generated oil revenue. That is the brain behind the introduction of the reform programme, and by extension, the initiation of the NAGIS project,” Agassi, who is also the state Commissioner for Lands, Survey and Town Planning, said.

However, he said the government is not just looking at income that will accrue to the public purse through this urbanisation process which will last up to 24 months.

Government will have to, first, build confidence in property owners through the provision of a 21stCentury habitat with all social infrastructures to compete with, and serve as a twin city to Abuja.

The project, which began nine months ago is centred at Mararaba with a view to turning the area around as business district of the

state. Work on the project situated along Keffi-Abuja Road, is nearing completion and it is expected to prop-up the state’s revenue base.

The project, which is being handled by a consortium of firms under Siraj Engineering Consultants, has three components namely Digital Area Mapping (DAM), being handled by Aeroprecisa Limited; Nasarawa Geographic Information Services, undertaken by GIS Transport; and the planning of cadastral districts, being handled

by Pragmatic Solutions Consult Nigeria, Envicons, and National Environmental Design Associates.

This is meant to engender a detailed planning and development control and will prevent the growth of slums in the state.

The NAGIS project was first awarded to JM Technologies, a firm contracted by the previous government of Aliyu Akwe Doma.

The firm was awarded the contract worth about N500m to provide digital aerial mapping which it could not complete two years

later.

The present administration unbundled the project, and reawarded it to Siraj, at the cost of N2.7b to include two more components.

Aeroprecisa Limited, which is providing aerial images, started in May to capture images which are currently being processed for the planned computerisation of the land in use.

GIS Transport, which is providing geographic information services, has seen the state Ministry of Lands, Survey and Town Planning kitted with state-of-the-art facilities. It is now saddled with the responsibility of capturing all land data including titles at the ministry.

The firm has also fetched all mutilated land documents including the Intelligent Sheet from where all of Nasarawa’s land use can be traced, and reproduced them into 21st Century documents with computer back•Continued on Page 14

I

•Ngige flanked by Senator Ben Obi (left) and Ezeemo

Ngige’s N100m scheme lifts the poor Senator donates to orphanages From Nwanosike Onu, Awka

thinking ahead.”

He announced a donation of N100m scholarship scheme for students in the area, N10m for the ACN state secretariat, N1.050m for each

of the 21 local government area offices of the ACN in the state.

Not done, Ngige also donated six Camry cars and two buses to some members of the party. He said that another eight would arrive in the second phase of the largesse in

March.

He also donated a trailer-load of bags of rice, cartons of tomatoes, millions of indomie noodles, uncountable tins of groundnut oil, and bags of salt, among others to some orphanages in the senatorial zone.

Besides, over 10 churches in Abuja, Enugu, Anambra, and Edo states got their own shares of N500, 000 each. The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) also received N200, 000 and N250, 000 respectively.

Ngige also donated some items to wards and local government areas that gave him massive votes during the senatorial election, even as he urged them to do more in subsequent elections for ACN in the state.

The Chairman of the ACN in the state, Chief Amechi Obidike told Newsextra that he was overwhelmed.

•Continued on Page 14

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

14

•Some of the food items donated to orphanages •Continued from Page 13 He said he accepted the chairmanship of the party in the state to win elections and not for moon lighting, adding that what occupies the minds of ACN members in the state is for the party to occupy the Anambra State Government House in 2014.

Sir Goddy Ezeemo commended the members of ACN in the state for

•Some of the cars

Ngige’s N100m scheme lifts the poor sticking together without any rancour.

He said: “I am part of this revolution. I have been there for quite a long time and I will continue being with the ACN.” The ACN lawmakers in the state,

Hon Tony Oneweek Muonagor, (Idemili North), Hon Ebele Obi (Idemili South), the immediate past Deputy Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Sir Ozo Ughamadu told Newsextra that 2013 would not be a year for jamboree, but for serious

business for the ACN in Anambra State.

Describing Ngige as a fearless person, Senator Ben Ndi Obi said that Ngige was the person who galvanised all the governors then to fight against former President Olusegun

Obasanjo’s third term agenda.

He said: “The truth is that, since the advent of democracy in Nigeria, the governor that made people to realise what democracy dividend was all about was Ngige. He changed the face of democracy in Nigeria.”

Nasarawa steps up growth plan •Continued from Page 13 ups.

This component has also seen the introduction of a new Certificate of Occupancy (C of O), for an ongoing re-certification which has phased out the old and bogus certification process which was beneficial only to the privileged few.

At the time Al-Makura took over, only about 600 Cs of O had been issued to privileged personalities in 16 years of the state’s existence.

But that is being reversed now. This project has seen hundreds with their land titles few months of the introduction of the reforms.

The third component which is the creation of cadastral districts is in its fourth month of implementation. It is being executed by a team of Nigeria’s leading town planners.

Alhaji Ibrahim Usman Jibril, the NAGIS Project Manager, who is

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•The conceptual perspective of the construction work at NAGIS Centre in Mararaba also the Senior Special Assistant to the governor, said an inception report on the project has already been produced. According to him, its design shows that about 200 square metres of land is available for the planning which will create 10,000 plots out of six districts at the bor-

der with Abuja.

The cadastral districts planning entails the adoption of the General Land Use Budget promoted by UNHabitat, with an extension to give specifics on arterial roads to connect main roads, residential areas, neighbourhood shopping centres

and mini-shopping centres as well as schools and other plans.

The provision of the centre is being handled by A&K Construction Limited as part of the about US$10,625,000.00 (N2.7b) NAGIS project.

A&K Construction has so far

completed work on the centre, just as stringing of wires to link the server room and computer units, has also been completed. Furnishing will be the next stage, according to Engr. Khaled Chamoun, the Project Manager, who was part of the team led by Sonny Agassi, to conduct the Minister and his entou-

Imoke delivers on housing promises

ROSS River State Governor Liyel Imoke has made good his promise to provide houses for the people of the state, helping to solve a major challenge in the country.

Across major cities in Nigeria, the housing needs of the people, especially the low income earners, are alarming. The situation is so frightening that many Nigerians have become destitute, sleeping under the bridges and street corners, irrespective of the vagaries of the weather.

Experts have attributed the high demand for houses and the slow response to the housing needs to the lack of will on the part of political gladiators, the weak private sector or lack of drive by the private sector to partner with government, and the low income and wages that the government and the private sector pay to the work force.

The low wage limitation in most states of the federation has been fur-

By Denis Utang

ther compounded by the skyrocketing prices of building materials that have defied the law of gravity.

In the face of these variables, most civil and public servants in Nigeria, who cannot afford to build even one bedroom house are looking forward to the government at different levels to come to their rescue.

Senator Liyel Imoke of Cross River State is one of the few governors who promptly responded to the yearnings of the civil servants in his state by delivering 200 homes to the civil and public servants at the Atimbo Housing Estates, Akpabuyo local Government Area, which is just 10 minutes drive from the city centre.

The units, numbering 200 were recently commissioned by Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Mrs Amah Pepple in a memorable ceremony.

Imoke is not daunted by the de- listing of Cross River State from the

league of oil producing states in the Southsouth of Nigeria, and its attendant dwindling revenue.

Like the Federal Government’s housing policy which is hinged on the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Imoke is bent on delivering at least 7,500 houses to the state civil and public servants before he exits office in 2015. Already the state government, through the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, has acquired vast lands in seven locations, namely: Calabar, Akpabuyo, Odukpani, Ugep, Ikom, Ogoja and Obudu. However, the Agency that is saddled with the onerous task of delivering these homes to the public servants in the aforementioned locations is the Department of Mortgage Finance and Estate Development.

The vision of the Agency is ‘to ensure Cross River State becomes and remains the leading State in Nigeria in the provision of affordable housing for its citizens, in an economically and socially

sustainable way’.

The Department was established with the primary objective of facilitating the provision of affordable, decent and functional housing in compliance with defined minimum standards, using a sustainable Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework.

This PPP framework for housing development was to be actualised through alliances with the Property developers, Primary Mortgage Institutions (PMIS) Banks and allied financial institutions.

In Akpabuyo Housing Estate for instance, the Property Developer that is partnering with the Cross River State Government is Aso Savings and Loans plc ASO is providing the mortgage for civil and public servants, while the Cross River State Government, beyond providing guarantees for the Mortgage loans, (on behalf of the civil and public servants), provides infrastructures like roads and public utilities such as water and electricity in the Estate.

Three weeks ago, the department which is headed by a Special Adviser, in the person of Barr Eddy Edem-Ita ogon, started the handing over of keys to the first set of beneficiaries at the Atimbo Estate, design to house 610 housing units of between one- to three-bedroom bungalows.

Tuesday, November 6, was the second successive week that the Agency was handing over keys to the lucky civil and public servants who won houses through a very transparent balloting system.

One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Michael Wonah of the Management Development Institute (MDI), Calabar exclaimed ‘this is a dream come true’ Wonah, like many other civil and public servants who gathered and eagerly awaiting the arrival of Barr.

Eddy Ogon at the estate chorused in disbelief whether what they were about to witness was a dream or reality.

•Utang, a journalist, writes from Cross River

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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COMMENTARY Comments

EDITORIAL FROM OTHER LAND

AFCON 2013 •Africa’s soccer showpiece begins

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S the 29th African Cup of Nations kicks off in South Africa tomorrow, it will bring in its wake all the glamour and excitement of the African continent’s most prestigious soccer tournament. The championships will feature several of Africa’s acknowledged superpowers, including Nigeria, Cote d’Ivoire and Ghana, as well as formidable contenders like Zambia, Tunisia, Algeria and South Africa.

In many ways, AFCON 2013 will be a watershed for African soccer. It is coming at a time when several of the old assumptions about the continental game have changed. For example, the absence of countries like Egypt and Cameroon for the second time in succession has clearly shown that nothing is to be taken for granted. Similarly, the increased prominence of Zambia, the

‘Fortunately, it appears that the Minister of Sports and Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has stressed that he is not putting pressure on the Super Eagles to become champions at all costs. The team should do its best to win the trophy, but greater emphasis should be on ensuring that Nigeria’s flag is flown with honour and commitment in South Africa by a Super Eagles that is well on its way to becoming the soccer powerhouse that it once was’

current AFCON champions, is an indication that the fielding of prominent players is no obstacle to success on the field of play.

What this means is that the Cup of Nations tournament is likely to be one of the most open in recent times. Even though the powerful Ivorien team is still favoured for the title, there is no doubt that Zambia’s feat, has encouraged many other competitors.

In the particular case of Nigeria, the Super Eagles will certainly be seeking validation in South Africa. The country was shocked by its failure to qualify for last year’s edition of AFCON in Equatorial Guinea and Gabon. The subsequent recriminations spurred a great deal of soul-searching, with many fans and administrators coming to the conclusion that too many things had been left undone in administration, player selection and team management.

Part of the fallout of the non-qualification debacle was the sacking of Samson Siasia, the erstwhile coach of the Super Eagles, and his replacement

by Stephen Keshi. The new coach has sought to reinvigorate the team by bringing in new players, mostly from the local league. He has made the competition for places more competitive by emphasising current form rather than considerations of whether a player is based at home or abroad. In addition, he has placed great emphasis on team cohesion and discipline.

The pressure on the Super Eagles to do well is reinforced by its status as one of AFCON’s most consistent participants. Even though it has only won the

tournament twice, it has more thirdplace finishes than any other country, as well as several silver medals.

The team’s vociferous supporters are also insisting on a good performance.

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has made a semi-final appearance a condition of Keshi’s contract; the coach himself and several players have expressed confidence that the team will do well.

While it is not unreasonable to strive for the trophy, it is more important that the Super Eagles put in a performance that has positive indications for the long-term. The team has to evolve playing patterns that are reflective of indigenous tactics and strategies rather than a weak imitation of other nations; young players must be permitted to come through, regardless of where they ply their trade; local coaching must be given the opportunity to flower at the highest levels; administrative back-up should be more responsive to the requirements of national teams.

Fortunately, it appears that the Minister of Sports and Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bolaji Abdullahi, has stressed that he is not putting pressure on the Super Eagles to become champions at all costs. The team should do its best to win the trophy, but greater emphasis should be on ensuring that Nigeria’s flag is flown with honour and commitment in South Africa by a Super Eagles that is well on its way to becoming the soccer powerhouse that it once was.

Ayo Ositelu (1943-2013) •· Game, set and match for a prominent sports journalist and administrator

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HE death of Deacon Ayo Ositelu on January 9 marks the departure of one of Nigeria’s most experienced and knowledgeable sports journalists who bestrode the diverse worlds of sports journalism, sports administration and grassroots governance.

As one of the country’s pioneer sports journalists working in the print media, Ositelu brought an articulateness and depth of analysis that had previously been uncommon in the profession. He was one of the few individuals who did not see sports reporting as a career dead-end which attracted those who could not cover more prestigious beats. In a glittering journalistic sojourn which included stints at some of Nigeria’s most admired newspapers, he manifested the beauty of sports reporting and commentary through personal example. His long-running sports column, “The Arena,” was so popular and so closely identified with him that it became his nickname.

Deacon Ositelu took sports journalism to new levels in his extended analysis of tennis, soccer and other sports. He was blessed with an eye for the quirky and the unusual, and could draw upon an almost-faultless mental encyclopaedia to draw out the significance of particular landmarks in sporting history. The passion and sense of seriousness with which he wrote about sports was so palpable that it was no longer possible to dismiss either sports journalism or its practitioners as “lesser” journalists. His administrative capacities were not in doubt either: he rose to become editor of The Sunday Punch and

served on editorial boards where his experience was put to good use.

Such was Ositelu’s versatility that he seamlessly transferred his skills to the electronic media and was in demand as an analyst on television where he continually impressed viewers with his depth of knowledge and understanding of different sporting events, and the murky politics which underpinned them.

He did not stop at merely talking about sports; he administered it as well. He was Chairman of the Lagos State Tennis Association and was frequently made a member of different initiatives and bodies designed to improve sporting activity at the state and national levels. He never passed up an opportunity to responsibly utilise his credibility, and continually wrote and spoke against the ills that were besetting Nigerian sports and preventing it from assuming its proper place in Nigerian life.

Born on April 6, 1943, Deacon Ositelu was also prominent in grassroots politics.

He was the first Executive Chairman of the Ejigbo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), where he oversaw much of the hard work involved in putting it on a sound footing. Even after stepping down from the position, he was a keen participant in the council’s activities.

As is usual when prominent professionals pass on, it must be wondered whether those to whom the baton has been passed are prepared to carry it with similar commitment and professionalism. While Nigeria can boast of many competent sports journalists, it must be admitted that some practitioners are not as professional as they

ought to be. Unlike Ositelu, for whom exclusive stories were non-negotiable, many of his successors are content to source stories from the internet, and to pass off rumour and innuendo as news.

Again, unlike Ositelu, whose independence was unquestionable, many of today’s sports journalists are a little too quick to take sides instead of reporting events thoroughly, honestly and neutrally.

There can be no doubt that the sporting fraternity in particular, and Nigeria as a whole, has lost a man who stood out for his professional commitment, his personal integrity and his unstinting generosity. May his soul rest in peace.

‘Deacon Ositelu took sports journalism to new levels in his extended analysis of tennis, soccer and other sports. He was blessed with an eye for the quirky and the unusual, and could draw upon an almostfaultless mental encyclopaedia to draw out the significance of particular landmarks in sporting history. The passion and sense of seriousness with which he wrote about sports was so palpable that it was no longer possible to dismiss either sports journalism or its practitioners as “lesser” journalists’

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A widening war in Mali

RANCE’S initial airstrikes have, so far, failed to halt the southward advance of Islamist rebels in Mali. Containing these militias, which are sheltering international terrorist groups, and the threat they pose to West Africa and the wider world is essential.

But President François Hollande should resist beginning a ground assault, which would almost certainly turn into a protracted counterinsurgency campaign that France should not take on and cannot afford.

The challenge of dislodging the rebels from the northern zone must remain with Mali’s Army and its West African allies. France, along with the United States and others, should intensify efforts to prepare them for this fight, as authorized by a United Nations Security Council resolution last month. The resolution set a timetable for an African ground force to be deployed by this fall, but, given the current fighting, that may need to be accelerated.

Until the Malian forces are able to retake the north, bloodthirsty militias like Ansar Dine and Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb will continue terrorizing the people of that region with punishments like amputation and stoning. They seized power in the vast desert region the size of France last June after Mali’s American-trained Army overthrew the democratically elected government and threw the country into chaos.

Yet it is this same Malian Army, with military help from West African neighbors like Nigeria, Niger and Mauritania, and training, weapons and logistical support from France, the United States and others, that will have to assume responsibility for reintegrating the north.

American military training programs have had an unhappy history in Mali, as reported in The Times on Monday. Years of effort, costing hundreds of millions of dollars, turned to disaster when American-trained units defected with their weapons and joined an ethnic Tuareg rebellion that preceded the Islamist takeover. One American-trained Malian officer who did not defect led the coup that overthrew President Amadou Toumani Touré last March, further weakening the country’s defenses. Mali’s Army has also been cited by human rights groups for torturing detainees.

The Pentagon’s top commander for Africa, Gen. Carter Ham, acknowledges that the actions of Mali’s Army last spring were “wholly unacceptable.” The lessons of this debacle must be absorbed and perhaps applied elsewhere as well.

Still, this is no time to walk away from Mali.

American training programs there should be strengthened, with greater emphasis on human rights and civilian supremacy. In the meantime, France’s airstrikes, responding to urgent pleas from Mali’s government, make sense. But they are no substitute for what Mali must now do for itself.

– New York Times TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief Victor Ifijeh • Editor Gbenga Omotoso •Chairman, Editorial Board Sam Omatseye •General Editor Kunle Fagbemi •Editor, Online Lekan Otufodunrin •Managing Editor Northern Operation Yusuf Alli •Managing Editor Waheed Odusile

• Executive Director (Finance & Administration) Ade Odunewu

•Deputy Editor Lawal Ogienagbon

•Advert Manager Robinson Osirike

•Deputy Editor (News) Adeniyi Adesina

• Gen. Manager (Training and Development) Soji Omotunde •Chief Internal Auditor Toke Folorunsho •Senior Manager (sales) Akeem Shoge

•IT Manager Bolarinwa Meekness •Deputy Editor (Nation’s Capital) Yomi Odunuga •Press Manager Udensi Chikaodi •Group Political Editor Emmanuel Oladesu •Manager, Corporate •Group Business Editor Marketing Ayodele Aminu Hameed Odejayi •Sport Editor • Manager (Admin) Ade Ojeikere Folake Adeoye •Editorial Page Editor Sanya Oni

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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CARTOON & LETTERS

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IR: The Apapa axis of Lagos, being a major gateway to the country’s sea ports, is very strategic to the economy of Nigeria.

The major share of government’s revenue comes from both the Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports. More than 75 per cent of the goods imported into the country come through the ports in Lagos and the major ports in the country are based in Apapa.

Unfortunately, in recent time, motorists, commuters as well as business men moving towards the axis have been subjected to untold hardship occasioned by perennial traffic gridlock that has become a recurring decimal along the everbusy Apapa-Oshodi expressway.

The issues involved along the axis are multi-faceted. One, the ApapaOshodi road, a federal government road, is in bad shape and in need of urgent rehabilitation. Second, the nuisance of trailer drivers on the road is becoming a major concern.

Not only that they drive recklessly, but they equally park their trailers indiscriminately along the road. The indiscriminate parking of trailers on either side of the road is a serious factor in the painful traffic gridlock that commuters regularly suffer on the road. Third, incessant cases of abandoned vehicles equally constitute a major hindrance to motorists on the highway.

Also, the unprecedented upsurge of petrol tankers on the road is closely tied to the continuous importation of locally consumed fuel in the country. There are more than 50 depots in Lagos, which means there are between 50 and 400 trucks that load in one day. Consequently, a minimum of 3,000 trucks travel to Lagos on daily basis to lift petroleum products. Over 80 per cent of

EDITOR’S MAIL BAG SEND TYPEWRITTEN, DOUBLE SPACED AND SIGNED CONTRIBUTIONS, LETTERS AND REJOINDERS OF NOT MORE THAN 800 WORDS TO THE EDITOR, THE NATION, 27B, FATAI ATERE ROAD, MATORI, LAGOS. E-mail: views@thenationonlineng.net

Restoring the lost glory of Apapa fuel supplies in the country are from Lagos. Hence, tanker drivers come from all over the country to source the products.

To reverse the ugly trend along the axis, the Lagos State Government made spirited efforts to liberate the access roads. In May last year, the state government embarked on a massive clearing exercise, which led to the removal of trucks, demolition of shanties under the bridges and eviction of hangers-on in and around Apapa. At the end of the exercise, no fewer than 120 tankers were seized by the monitoring team.

This intervention, no doubt, offered momentary respite to road users especially residents of Apapa, Festac and Badagry. But the tankers have since returned causing greater havocs.

There is an urgent need for relevant government agencies to put in place a more institutionalized framework. For instance, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) should stop issuing loading ticket for tanker drivers when adequate preparation has not been made for them, in order to reduce indiscriminate parking on the high-

way by the drivers. So, it is important that NNPC do not issue out tickets for drivers to come and load in Lagos when adequate preparation for them to lift fuel in Lagos has not been made.

Similarly, it is important that more tank farms are constructed along this axis to contain the over 3,000 tankers that come into Lagos on a daily basis. Tanker drivers often complain of the distance between the Orile terminal and the depots as a major setback. Presently, only two tank farms owned by Capital Oil and MRS are in operation along the axis and their

Sovereign Wealth Fund a necessity IR: For nations such as Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, Congo[Kinshasha] Gabon, Angola among others where natural resources endowed to those entities are explored and the revenue accruable from the export of those rare resources stolen by successive political administrations and diverted to private pockets, it would be imperative for such countries to consider establishing Sovereign Wealth Funds. There is therefore need for strong institutional and legal frameworks to be enforced for the

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national assets saved in form of sovereign wealth funds used to build functional infrastructure to promote better life for the greatest number of the citizenry.

The decision by Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala to push for the establishment of the sovereign wealth fund is indeed a push for the fundamental human rights of Nigerians to be respected especially if the objectives of establishing the fund are strictly pursued.

It is universally acknowledged that one of the sure ways that government ensures respect for the

fundamental human rights of citizens is the promotion of measures that give rise to good governance, zero-tolerance to corruption, and respect for accountability and transparency.

The primary purpose of establishing the sovereign wealth fund by most developed societies is the creation of quality infrastructure designed to make life meaningful.

If members of the political entity are provided with qualitative infrastructure to better their lives as citizens, it is safe to say that the sovereign wealth funds are neces-

Re: North misapplied N8.3trn

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IR: The Nation editorial titled “North Misapplied N8.3trn” dated January 16, was a delightful masterpiece. It calls to mind the statement by Ellen G. White that “the greatest want of the world is the want of men who cannot be bought or sold with money, men who call sin by it right name; men who in their innermost heart are ready to say the truth though heaven fall”.

Nigeria and the world are in dire need of the likes of Shehu Sani

capacity is not enough to accommodate the numerous tankers.

Perhaps more importantly, there is an urgent need for the construction of more refineries across the country. A greater proportion of the petroleum product is consumed in Lagos because the refineries outside Lagos are not working. It is, therefore, imperative that more refineries are built while existing ones are urgently rehabilitated to ease the stress on Lagos.

No nation that is desirous of economic development and growth will handle with levity such an important road like the Apapa Oshodi Expressway. To put the Nigerian economy on the lane to speedy recovery and growth, all stakeholders must be committed to a result-driven programme that would make the road a driver’s delight and investor’s friendly.

Tayo Ogunbiyi Ministry of Information and Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja.

(President of Civil Right Congress), who in an uncommon display of rare political sagacity and fearless audacity spoke truth to power. According to him, “the resources allocated to states (of the North) are not commensurate with the level of development on ground. The scandalous looting of the state resources (in the north) is a product of thieving and venal governors and compliant and placid state assemblies”.

It is imperative to submit that the

solution to the problem of the north is not 2015, but in the prudent management of state resources with absolute probity. My northern brothers and sister must begin to hold their leaders at all levels of government accountable and stop blaming other geo-political regions for their problem. Accountability is the answer.

As a matter of urgency, those who kill in the name of religion, education and other socio-economic divides in the north should end the

on-going hostility and look inward to determine how to find a lasting solution to their grievances. They should please note that those who congregate in various places of worship and our security agents are not the cause of their perceived problem.

Just as they must not forget that those who told them that the Ijaw man is their problem lied to them. If they think I am wrong, they should please see Mallam Shehu Sani for details.

• Godfrey Ehi O. Benin City.

sarily established for the promotion and protection of the fundamental human rights to life; dignity of the human person; freedom of association; freedom of movement and other basic freedoms and rights that are inherent, universal, and also the right to development.

According to a publication on wikipedia.org, the very first SWF was the Kuwait Investment Authority, which was established in 1953 before Kuwait secured its independence from the United Kingdom. The Kuwaitis’ Fund was created from crude oil revenues and is reported to be currently valued at about $250 billion. Kuwait is one of the best places to live in the world due to the aggressive infrastructural development achieved with the sovereign wealth fund.

I must however conclude by stating that the attempt to collect over $9 billion from some international creditors including China as contemplated by the Federal Government is retrogressive and will return us to position of a slave nation.

• Emmanuel Onwubiko Abuja

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013 16

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COMMENTS

Nigeria, as it could be made (3)

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WILL not dare to think that this grave we dig today shall bloom tomorrow. But it could. Nigeria could become that mass grave we dream to bury the shoots of nationhood and bliss nurtured by men we may never measure up to.

But this is hardly about the founding fathers in whose hands Nigeria pirouetted and prospered.

This is about you and me. This is about our knack for turning logic on its head to complement our innate greed and perversions. If we could help it, Nigeria would die on our watch, today. This minute, every civil dream and seed of State shall evaporate, if we could incite our will to humour our wile.

We think Nigeria is a mistake.

But Nigeria was never a mistake.

It is never the mistake. You and I are the mistake. You and I are the emblems of hope serving as crops of wrath where covetousness and deceit whets inhuman appetites.

As you read, the myth of war and secession holds fast. Despite the bitterness that trails the Nigerian civil war, characters that ought to know better acidly pronounce the necessity of war and violent secession like the next best thing that could ever happen to you and me.

This myth holds particularly among the youths because it is all they could manage today. War and separation remains appealing to the Nigerian youth not just because politicians, activists and journalists of vulpine intent and intellect claim it’s our next best alternative, our youth lust for war and secession because the idea offers fleeting

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moments of sentimentality that reinforces their dreams of acceptance and self-worth. Even those who know it to be a farce are loath to jettison that infectious romanticism that gets them giddy as overfed cattle gorging on barn supplies.

The youth are told that the only times in their lives that they would be worth something and enjoy a hopeful reality is when they agree to serve as cannon fodder for the total balkanization of the Nigerian State.

They do not know the import of the politics they perpetuate. It’s not about defending the interests of a minority tribe nor is it about paving the way for a more responsible and humane government. It’s about working for some tyrant activist who works for some rich and privileged cabal with all manners of interests.

Many have made a case for a Sovereign National Conference (SNC).

They argue that if Nigeria is to move forward or attain progress of any kind, we must sit down to reconsider and decide if really it would serve everyone’s interest to preserve the Nigerian dream.

I agree that the nation needs to sit down to deliberate over the

most dependable and progressive path forward. However, it would be the greatest fraud and disservice to you, me and posterity if we claim that splitting Nigeria remains the most practicable solution to our grief.

The very voices that cry for a referendum will get to the SNC to pound drumbeats of dissolution and rancor. Suddenly they will become strange to relate, largely silent or antagonistic to the preservation of the Nigerian State. It is alright for a people to determine what course of action would best serve their interests but it would be suicidal for us all to believe that our travails shall end in a new Biafra, Federal Republic of Oodua or United States of Arewa.

In every new, independent nation we build, there shall be no secure civilization or the usual securities by which a nation thrives. That is because whatever new States we create shall comprise of ignorant, turbulent proletariat stymied by crushing poverty and interminable penchant to play dumb. Such manner of working class or grassroots would as usual be dominated by the same ruling class whose insensitivity and wile informs our desire to separate.

Were the nation’s legislature at its best not a coven of rats and perfidious bums, there would be no wisdom in the convention of a sovereign national conference. But the Nigerian legislature is what it is and you and I are to blame for it.

There is a better life to be had by the Nigerian dream if our youth could endeavour to look inwards and channel that latent reserve we’ve scorned for ages. It is about time we understood that in any new nation we get to create, the current youth shall never become part of the ruling class.

As it is now in contemporary Nigeria, every new leadership we have in every new nation we create shall effortlessly dominate us and impose upon us their children, relatives and political associates while they make labourers and thugs of the youth by whose blood, bestiality and sweat whatever new nation was achieved.

The choice is ours to make; we either choose to remain a bunch of fools and clueless agitators or we could choose to leave the current leadership to the madness it perpetuates while we chart fresh paths to the future of our dreams.

Some of our greatest problems in this country, besides corruption, are racism and greed. However, the Nigerian youth need not be handicapped by these but we seem not to know that. The future of Nigeria lies in our hands. Sovereign National Conference or not, no solution or highfaluting socio-political or economic policy would work under the leadership and citizenship of unrepentant racists and self-aggrandizing characters like you and me.

It is time to heal. It is time for the

‘We need to identify the demons that drive the ruling class and dispossess our minds of every vanity that makes us habitable to similar fiends. The tragedy of our generation subsists in our seemingly uncontainable prospects and our desperation to be lorded over and contained, at a price. We are more endowed in intellect and humanity than the current ruling class. Thus let us not continue to serve as disposable pawns in its politics of bitterness and plunder’

HE recent murder of 27-year-old medical doctor, Irawo Adamolekun, by a gunman operating on a motorcycle at the Anthony Village end of Ikorodu Road, Lagos, has once again brought to fore the need for Lagosians to support the state government’s implementation of Traffic Law as it particularly affects the activities of commercial motorcycles operators.

According to the report, Irawo, who was driving in a black Kia Sephia II saloon car with Lagos number plate GP 388 AAA, was shot in front of the traffic warden spot linking Access Road to Ikorodu Road. It was learnt that the victim that had just left Osuntuyi Medical Centre, Obanikoro, where he works, was shot after he declined to part with valuables when the gunman attempted to rob him in traffic. The gunman, who was reported to have shot the deceased at close range, mounted a waiting motorcycle on the other side of the road and fled the scene.

A recent police report shows that out of the 30 armed robbery incidents recorded in Lagos between July and September 2012, 22 involved commercial motorcycles.

According to the report, it out of eight robberies that occurred in July, seven involved the use of Okada while it was also used in 10 out of 14 robberies in September 2012 and five out of eight robberies in August of the same year. Looking at available facts and figures, there should be no controversy about the fact that the operations of commercial motorcycles in the state need to be regulated.

Aside constituting serious threat to security, the misery and grief that commercial motorcycles has brought into several homes in Lagos is un-imaginable. Statistics from the Lagos State Management Authority (LASTMA) reveals that not less than 619 people were killed or seriously injured in commercial motorcycles accident in the last two years. The breakdown shows that 107 people died while 512 sustained serious injuries. Among the dead

Nigerian youth to take its rightful place in the scheme of things. I will never tire from saying that it’s about time we sought and identify our own candidate – the untiringly just and humane candidate. And let it be known that we shall never find such candidate amidst the coven of predators to whom we have learnt to serve as prey.

In order to heal, the Nigerian youth need to create and unite under a socio-political platform immune to and jealously guarded against the madness of materialism, racism and intractable wile.

We need to identify the demons that drive the ruling class and dispossess our minds of every vanity that makes us habitable to similar fiends. The tragedy of our generation subsists in our seemingly uncontainable prospects and our desperation to be lorded over and contained, at a price. We are more endowed in intellect and humanity than the current ruling class.

Thus let us not continue to serve as disposable pawns in its politics of bitterness and plunder. Rather let us seek to foster such political base as I advocate in the interest of you and me.

It is time to heal and while the healing of our seemingly vast sores is progressing, the Nigerian youth, irrespective of personal politics and tribe, should learn to live and strive, united in common effort, in pursuit of a common government, sensitive to mutual thought and feeling, yet subtly and silently separate in matters of politics and individuality.

If this unusual and unpredictable development is to flourish amid peace and order, reciprocal respect and budding intelligence, it will call for that truest and most dependable social surgery I advocate: revolution by the ballot system.

To be continued…

Public security and Lagos Traffic Law

By Lateef Ibirogba were 71 males and 36 females. In 2011 alone, 47 people were killed while 98 others sustained serious injuries from commercial motorcycles accidents. Between January and October 2012, 63 people were killed while 59 sustained serious injuries.

Fortunately, the security situation across the state is now getting better. Thanks to the meticulous implementation of the traffic law, especially the part that restricts commercial motorcycles from plying certain parts of the metropolis. Going by the available facts and figures, it is quite obvious that the restriction order placed on Okada by the law has helped, in no small measure, in stemming the tide of robbery cases in the state.

Consequently, the urgent task before every Lagosian is to give the new law a chance since it is mainly enacted to protect the people. Lawlessness and social disorder don’t bring any good to any nation. A nation whose citizens derive pleasure in reckless and disorderly behaviours cannot achieve rapid social-economic transformation. Indeed, governance becomes easier and cheaper in a lawful and orderly environment. A few of the complications we experience in the polity today are the direct effect of the unruly and disorderly state of affairs in the country.

As the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has always

said, the state’s road traffic law is for the safety and security of the life of citizens. It is about safety and security. It will be recalled that the governor once apprehended a commercial motorcyclist riding against traffic only to discover that the culprit was in custody of a gun and, a lady’s hand bag and a baby’s sanitary pad. The Lagos Police Command has continued to tell those who care to listen that one of the serious security challenges in the state is robbery with motorcycles.

Being one of the most important pre-conditions for human existence, the state government has always placed high premium on the security of lives and property in the state. This explains the setting up of the State Security Trust Fund which has become a model for other states in the country. The main objective of the fund is to effectively fund the security needs of the state on a sustainable basis. In its determination to make the state crime-free, the Fashola administration has opened up most hide-outs and joints that hitherto served as bases for fraudsters and armed robbers and turned them into beautiful environment.

Other steps that have been taken by the state government at boosting public safety and security include establishment of the state surveillance and command centre, reorganisation and strengthening of the state’s anti-crime outfit, the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), procurement of new

‘The main objective of the fund is to effectively fund the security needs of the state on a sustainable basis. In its determination to make the state crime-free, the Fashola administration has opened up most hide-outs and joints that hitherto served as bases for fraudsters and armed robbers and turned them into beautiful environment’

telecommunication equipment, bullet proof vest and uniforms, and additional patrol vehicles, establishment of Nigeria’s first dedicated Emergency Call Centre which can be reached toll-free on‘767’ and ‘112’ numbers on all networks, beefing up of the Neighbourhood Watch ( a complimentary community security outfit), introduction of the Community Security Assembly (CSA) among others. Another major component of the state’s security programme is the ‘SAFE CITY PROJECT’ which is a comprehensive security programme, whereby a fixed wireless monitoring device will compliment a Central Security Surveillance (CSS) from a command post with the aid of surveillance cameras.

In-spite of the state government’s investment in the security sector, it is vital that every segment of the society partners with it to ensure that the investment yields fruitful dividends. An effective public security cannot be obtained without the active involvement, participation and support of every segment of the society because public security is the responsibility of all individuals, groups, communities, organizations and other units that constitute the state.

It is a known fact, in Lagos State for instance, that despite the magnitude of government investment in public security, there are still herculean challenges that government’s resources alone cannot tackle. In as much as everyone in a state pursues varied interests, the pursuit of public security should, nevertheless, be the common goal of all. The involvement and participation of individuals and non-governmental actors in the issues of public security is, therefore, a necessity for the actualization of a secured society.

• Ibirogba is Lagos Commissioner for Information and Strategy

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

22

COMMENTS ‘Agriculture not only gives riches to a nation, but the only riches she can call her own.’

——Samuel Johnson N present day Nigeria, the farthest profession in most people’s minds is farming. Yet, before the discovery of crude oil, the mainstay of economy in the northern and southern regions was agriculture. Now, millions of Nigerians are daily deserting the rural areas where agriculture is still thriving, even though on a largely subsistence level, to the cities of Ibadan, Kano, Kaduna and especially Lagos among others across the country. More confounding also is the fact that everybody is wishing for food in abundance for the country, but no one wants to go into farming. That precisely is the irony of the Nigerian situation.

At any point in time when a discourse on alternative revenue-generating resource from crude oil comes up, agriculture becomes the natural option. A successful farmer, Brian Brett, once described farming “as a profession of hope” but the Nigerian government has turned it into that of hopelessness. This is because the government has not done enough to bring agriculture to the level that would make it a money-spinning venture for the nation. Whereas, food is one of the cheapest things in countries like the United States and the United Kingdom, where serious minded governments encourage mechanised farming through admirable subsidies among other incentives; it is however laughable to note that successive Nigerian governments have spent billions of naira on phantom fertiliser supply to farmers, tractors procurement and spectre loans that never get to the real farmers in the land.

This, to a large extent, explains why the comparative advantage of the north in groundnut/vegetables/cereals, the west in cocoa/palm oil/ofada rice among others, had not been optimally exploited till date. While other countries are consolidating their giant strides on their agricultural produce through export to generate foreign revenue, the nation has remained at the rudimentary level, basking occasionally in the euphoria of her old glory of the pre-independence and early independence eras in that sphere. How far can this cacophony of past eureka in agriculture take Nigeria?

It is in the midst of this agricultural confusion that President Goodluck Jonathan’s move to buy phones for 10 million farmers in the country was born. Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, Minister of Agriculture, reportedly unveiled ab initio, the plan that he later modified by saying that government was out to

I

W

HEN one is entrusted with the people’s confidence, resources and fortune, one would need the amazing grace of God to discharge one’s responsibilities with utmost care, prudence, transparency and equity.

In 1999, Orji Uzor Kalu was, elected Governor of Abia State. His mandate was to impact positively on the people of the State using the common wealth of the people.

Odimegwu Onwumere, wrote a piece that is full of incoherence on page 21 of Thisday of Monday 31st December, 2012. In the said write-up, Odimegwu Onwumere, fruitlessly and unethically expressed his grouse over the ‘claim’ by one of Governor T. A. Orji’s aides that the governor has restored the dignity of the Abia person? Kalu, being conscious of the havoc he wrecked on Abians, would not want to hear of the restoration of the ‘dignity’ of Abia people. Hence he has continued to cry wolf where none exists.

For purposes of educating Kalu and equally calling him to order, let me talk on ‘dignity’ and its restoration in Abia State. Because of his crude and uninformed background, Kalu does not know that ‘dignity’ is that intrinsic quality in one that earns or makes one deserve respect. Dignity does not necessarily flow from wealth. Rather, it is an inalienable associate of character.

When a person’s ‘dignity’ is restored, the person enjoys enhanced positive image. By virtue of constitutional democracy, every Abian is entitled to certain fundamental human rights such as: (a) Freedom of thought, (b) Freedom of association and (c) Freedom of worship Any time that fundamental right of an Abian or any other individual is violated or denied, it goes a long way to cause psychosocial depression. This, certainly, affects the individual and, therefore, impacts very negatively on his or her character and, by clinical extension, his or her ‘dignity’.

I am saying it for the umpteenth time that during the tenure of Kalu as Governor in Abia

What’s Nigerian farmers’worth?

Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina subsidise the purchase of phones to the farmers and not fund it outright. Adesina claimed that he would not be deterred by ‘detractors’ criticisms in his bid to “rebuild the broken walls of Nigeria’s agriculture and unlock wealth and opportunities for our farmers.”

Is the purchase of phones through tax payers’ money the best way to achieve this? What is the manifest achievement of this man since he assumed office as minister in July, 2011?

Let us assume that Adesina truly inherited a totally corrupt inefficient fertilizer sector, where the government was spending huge amounts of money on direct procurement and distribution of subsidised fertilizers but with less than 11 per cent of the farmers getting the input; is it not his duty to put things right in that sector? What mileage was he trying to get by his claim that in the seed sector, middle men and rent seekers were allegedly the ones benefiting from the billions of naira spent every year by the government for subsidies?

Let him tell us who the middlemen and rent seekers are if not top officials of his ministry and their cohorts.

He claimed to have achieved this through the Growth Enhancement Support scheme in April 2012. He said the GES scheme delivered inputs to farmers directly by using their cell phones. Adesina reportedly enthused: “In the first year of the GES scheme, 1.2 million farmers received their subsidised fertilizers and seeds via their cell phones. We expect to have reached 1.5 million farmers by the end of the dry season. Let me say that this singular effort to get inputs to farmers directly resulted in the addition of an estimated 8.1 million metric tonnes of food to the domestic food supply.” What is so special about this unverifiable claim? How has it impacted on the price of food items in the market since the farmers would still have to pay for transportation?

The Minister further alluded to a report of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) study which he claimed to have affirmed that 71% of the nation’s 14million farmers have no mobile phones: Does his ministry rely on this report in arriving at the number of farmers in the country? Or does the Agriculture ministry conduct its own separate study to ascertain the number of farmers in the country? How does Adesina initially access the phone numbers of millions of farmers that directly benefited from the farm input? Was it through the data base of NCC or through the efforts of extension workers? What is the total number of extension workers in government’s employ and what method was used to get across to these farmers? Did any of the farmers ever complained to the ministry officials that they cannot afford a mobile phone?

This is another official agricultural policy abracadabra by this administration. Ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo came up with a ruse cassava policy that has not taken this country to any level after billion of naira had been

Abia: No longer goons’ own

By Don Ubani State, the fundamental rights of many Abians were deliberately and consistently trampled upon. Today, Governor T. A. Orji has given appointments, contracts and other lifesupport incentives to many Abians without subjecting any of them to any form of oathtaking. This is restoration of ‘dignity’.

For the eight years that Kalu presided over the affairs of Abia State, he never gave any quantifiable consideration to the health of Abians, hence he did not think it necessary to erect even a one-bed clinic.

That Governor T. A. Orji, a quintessential administrator and an accomplished alumnus of Nigeria’s premier University of Ibadan, has been able to build and equip 250 health centres spread across the State and two functional diagnostic medical centres in Umuahia and Aba, has definitely tormented Orji Kalu who now perceives the governor’s performance as a deliberate design to dump him in the dust bin meant for non-performance.

Abia is an oil producing state, courtesy of Ukwa-West Local Government Area.

Throughout Kalu’s tenure, every plea made by the people of Ukwa-West for his administration to set up an Oil Producing Area Development Commission naturally fell on a deaf ear. He did not grant the request because, true to his nature, Kalu hates the progress and comfort of his fellow human beings. But no sooner did Chief T. A. Orji become Governor than he set up the Abia State Oil Producing Area Development Commission. That commission has helped immensely in the development of Abia State, particularly the Oil producing areas of the State. Many Traditional Rulers from UkwaWest had no vehicles but today are proud owners of jeeps that have, for sure, enhanced their status. Kalu has always been a victim of

ignorance and, so, will not realize that an elevation of this magnitude for Traditional Rulers in Ukwa-West would go a long way to give impetus to their ‘dignity’. Does this not justify the Governor’s aide’s claim?

Kalu’s eight-year governance of Abia State did not witness any quantifiable empowerment of the Abia youth. His administration only recorded donation of ‘Tokumbo’ motor-cycles and wheel-barrows to Abia youths. On the contrary, the Government of Ochendo has motivated Abia youths with more than five hundred cars and more than two thousand tricycles, otherwise known as keke-Napep. The beneficiaries of this unparalleled benevolence of the Governor have subsequently become self-employed and are living very responsible lives and discharging their social cum community obligations. For youths that could only dream of motor-cycles and wheel-barrows during the administration of Kalu to have their taste redirected and their status radically upgraded, Kalu, would not perceive any meaningful restoration of ‘dignity’ in this context. What a pity!

In order to address the problem of youth unemployment and its attendant youth restiveness; a twin problem that was unattended to during the era of darkness which Kalu’s Government represented, the T. A. Orji’s Government has offered employment to four thousand and five hundred Abia youths and is encouraging them to acquire useful skills with the money they are paid in order to guarantee a stable future for themselves. Because Kalu would not wish or see anything good in Ochendo’s Government, he would not agree that youths that were hopelessly abandoned by his administration but are now being rehabilitated by Governor T. A. Orji have had their ‘dignity’ restored.

While the Federal Government of Nigeria

wasted on its conception. Sometime ago, President Jonathan came up with an illthought-out policy on the use of cassava flour for bread production. Even though he promised to always eat cassava bread, it is almost certain that the president himself does not eat cassava bread in Aso-Rock Villa, Abuja.

The minister, just like the failed cassava flour bread initiative goofed on this policy on mobile phones purchase for farmers. The policy is a complete misplacement of priority. For instance: Will he get recharge cards across to his erroneous self perceived ‘poor’ farmers and also provide the elusive power necessary to charge the phones in the rural areas in a country where constant power supply is a rare privilege even in the cities? There are many pressing needs in the agricultural sector that the billions of naira can address despite the fact that Adesina has denied the touted N60billion. But he should avail eagerto-know Nigerians how much the government is eventually going to spend on the project.

Let it be known to Jonathan/Adesina that the yam/orange farmers in Benue State, vegetable/groundnut ones in Kano and other core North states and their palm oil/cocoa counterparts in the west do not need Adesina’s mobile phones. What the farmers need include storage facilities, feeder roads, improved seed/seedlings, modern agricultural machineries and genuine low interest loans to expand their farms among others.

For Adesina and his team to have thought of buying or subsidising mere phones for farmers in the country underscores the contempt shown them by this administration.

The thought of that policy itself, not to talk of its implementation, is insulting to the sensibilities of farmers across the country. The phone-for-farmers exercise is a further pillage of the nation’s collective till. Who can then convince me and indeed, other worried Nigerians, that the Nigerian farmers in the 21st Century have any worth in the estimation of this President and his minister? I, nay my compatriots, await a convincing answer!

‘Let it be known to Jonathan/ Adesina that the yam/orange farmers in Benue State, vegetable/groundnut ones in Kano and other core North states and their palm oil/cocoa counterparts in the west do not need Adesina’s mobile phones’ legislated eighteen thousand naira as minimum wage for the Nigerian worker, the Abia State Government, under Ochendo, pays twenty thousand and one hundred naira to her lowest public servant. It is only the devil that will not see restoration of ‘dignity’ in this vivid expression of humanity.

In this piece, I do not intend to mention the numerous legacy projects initiated and being executed by the administration of Governor T. A. Orji in the State. Should I talk of the civil servants’ secretariat complex that is eighty percent completed or the five thousand seat capacity International Conference Centre, also eighty percent completed?

If Kalu should claim he has not seen the new functional Industrial market before the University of Agriculture Umudike, would he be justified to say he has not seen the modern Umuahia market at Ubani-Ibeku, which is just conspicuously along his OhafiaUmuahia Road? There are too many projects to be mentioned that space and time may not permit here. I, however, challenge Orji Kalu for an open contest on the issue of restoration of ‘dignity’ for Abians by Governor T. A. Orji.

To ascertain how myopic Kalu and his uninformed Odimegwu Onwumere are, one has to compare and contrast between their preposterous claim that there is no restoration of ‘dignity’ in Abia and their contradictory questioning of the source of money with which the wife of the governor, who through her Non-Governmental Organisation; Hannah-May Foundation, has been touching the lives of the less-privileged by building a three-bedroom bungalow, with provision of water and furniture for such people in the State. It is for the reading public to assess and evaluate if indigenes of a State who, hitherto, had no shelter of their own but through the milk of kindness of the Governor’s wife now own their own houses should be said to have been impacted positively on or otherwise.

• Chief Ubani, KSC, JP, writes from Aba

Moses resumes training NFF won’t increase

after injury scare

Pg. 24

players’ bonuses

Pg. 24

Sport

Friday, January 18, 2013

PAGE 23

FIFA WORLD RANKING

Eagles retain 52nd Position

Eagles in SA, head to Nelspruit

Pg. 24

Pg. 24

AYC 2013

Tinkler not impressed Pg. 41

Pg. 24

With Mikel FUND RELEASE ALLEGATION

Why I invited 19 Abdullahi sets new players—Obuh record straight

NATIONSPORT FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

24

41

NATION SPORT AFCON 2013..AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013...AFCON 2013....

Moses resumes training NFF won’t increase after injury scare players’ bonuses

FIFA WORLD RANKING

NATION SPORT

Tinkler not impressed

With Mikel

Eagles retain 52nd position

AYC 2013: Why I invited 19 new players—Obuh

By Paul Oluwakoya •Keshi

•Obuh

Eagles in SA, head to Nelspruit •Tinkler

T

Awoture Eleyae wants Delta to achieve more in sports

HERE was no movement for the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the January rankings released yesterday by FIFA as the country maintained her 52nd position in the world in the first rankings for 2013.

Like Nigeria which also maintained the 9th spot in Africa, many other countries were static as there were very few changes to 2013's first edition with only 11 matches taken into account, including six

Rangers call for dialogue

over Agbim, Mba

that were actually played in 2012.

Still maintaining numbers one spot are world champions Spain which continues to lead the way ahead of the Netherlands, Germany and Uruguay, who are still close together in the chasing pack.

Of the top 20 teams, only Chile has been in action recently, their 3-2 victory over Paraguay seeing them overtake Russia and move into 12th place on the global ladder.

Although there was not much movement this month, some teams did still climb into their highest-ever position on the FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking, namely Bosnia-Herzegovina (19th, up 1), Panama (47th, up 2), Estonia (52nd, up 5) and Belize (133rd, up 8). Montenegro (50th, up 1) have also returned to the top 50.

This month's other successful sides are Uzbekistan (67th, up 8), Zambia (71st, up 8), Saudi Arabia

(87th, up 9), Congo DR (116th, up 9) and Nicaragua (145th, up 9), who have all benefited from the devaluation of poor results in previous years to make significant progress up the table.

There will undoubtedly be more movement on February's Ranking as the 32 matches taking place at the CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea will be taken into account The next ranking will be published by Fifa on February 14.

FUND RELEASE ALLEGATION

Abdullahi sets record straight •Abdullahi

Glo Soccer Academy: why I missed the final 16 – Ikuepamitan •Agbim

•As Govt inagurates LOC for Africa Youth Athletics Championship

25

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

PEOPLE THE NATION

A NINE-PAGE SECTION ON SOCIETY

The Akin-Olugbades on Tuesday in Lagos celebrated the 100th posthumous birthday of their patriarch, the late Chief Ohu Akin-Olugbade, who died 25 years ago. PRECIOUS IGBONWELUNDU was there.

•Oba Dosunmu (right) unveiling the book. With him are (from left) Dr Adesegun Akin-Olugbade, Dr Bolu Akin-Olugbade; Mr Femi Okunade; Omo Oba Olasunmade Akin-Olugbade and Prince Ajibola PHOTO: NIYI ADENIRAN

In memory of a ‘dear father’ H

E died 25 years ago, but he left a worthy legacy which his children are proud of today. To mark the 100th posthumous birthday of the late Chief Ohu AkinOlugbade, who was a lawyer and politician, his children launched a book: The Great Statesman in his memory. The book was unveiled at a public lecture to mark his birthday at the Agip Hall of the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos on Tuesday. The hall was packed full with politicians, professionals and captains of industry. They were ushered into the hall after filling the arrival and registration forms at the entrance.

The event kicked off with an opening prayer

by Revd S.A. Fagbemi, followed with the recitation of the National Anthem and a welcome address by head of the Akin-Olugbade family, Omo Oba Olasunmade Akin-Olugbade.

Highpoints of the event were the singing of the Egba anthem, the book launch and group photographs.

The guests relished the light refreshment served at the foyer.

Delivering the lecture entitled Self interest, Game theory and Nation building, Prof. James Fabunmi, an aeronautical engineer, urged leaders not to allow their interest to conflict with the national interest.

Fabunmi urged the country to adopt a different approach to governance, advocating that local governments be strengthened to avoid the current wasteful system inherited from the colonial masters.

The book editor, Prof. Akin Odebunmi, described the late Akin-Olugbade as exceptional.

Odebunmi, a professor of Psychology, said he would forever remember the late AkinOlugbade’s statement that “the difference between you and your driver was opportunity".

This means: “we should not hesitate to help anyone who is in need and should always render selfless service.”

Odebunmi added: “In Abeokuta, AkinOlugbade left his footprints as an industrialist and employer of labour who left behind a chain of companies. He built a hospital and social centre for the people of Egbaland. He spearheaded efforts to build a befitting palace for the Olowu, united the warring Owu chiefs, gave scholarships to indigent students and gave employment to many Egba youths.”

Former Attorney General and Minister of Justice Prince Bola Ajibola, who chaired the occasion, recalled his experience with the late AkinOlugbade.

The former Judge of the World Court at The Hague drew laughter from the audience during the reminiscences.

Ajibola who said he shared many significant moments with the late sage, told the audience that the figure 13 was also special to both of them.

“Akin-Olugbade was born in 1913 as an only child and ended up with 13 children, while I was the 13th child out of 25 children.”

Olowu of Owu Oba Adegboyega Dosunmu could not control his emotions as he recounted

the support he got from the late Akin-Olugbade.

The monarch, who was close to tears, told the audience that Akin-Olugbade remains the best Balogun Egbaland ever had.

He said: "I can hardly talk about AkinOlugbade without crying because he impacted my life.

"He was a hard drive behind me and many others. He was a man who gave meaning to the life of our people. He cannot be forgotten at all.

He gave me strength and courage and taught me the history of the Owu people. He loved his people and gave anything that was needed to establish the importance of his people.”

He described the book as “a great record of a great man” urging the people to buy, read in order to understand the principles of greatness in a challenging world.”

Omo Oba Akin-Olugbade described his father as a great man. He described him as a father in a million.

He said: "My father was born in 1913 as an only child but he left behind 13 children from five women at the time of his death and he never discriminated against any of his children and my mother was mummy to all the children.

"My father died peacefully. I can remember he had called me and said I should ensure that all his children were adequately educated. He had ordered for a glass of drink and his cigarette. He drank from the glass without finishing it, and then smoked half of his cigarette, after which he gasped and passed on.

I met great leaders like Leopold Senghor, Babacar N'Diaye, Robert Mugabe and the one and only Madiba, Nelson Mandela.”

He said: "My father was a straight man, kind, and honest. He never took any piece of land at the high brow areas as a politician neither did he receive fat salary unlike what is obtained today. He worked hard in his business to make money and also touched many lives with the resources he had.

“I think people should be made to explain how they made their money. Our father always told us to avoid anything that will tarnish his name.

In Nigeria today, people are just worshipped because they have money and no one bothers to inquire how they made the money.”

In attendance were: the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade II, represented by his wife; the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo III, also represented by a chief, Sonny Oyekunle; former Ekiti State Governor, Otunba Niyi Adebayo; former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Akin Aduwo; former Minister for Planning, Chief Rasheed Gbadamosi.

Others include Prof Adebayo Williams; Chief Executive Officer, Zerox Company, Femi Oguade, who represented the chief launcher, Dr. Oladele Fajemirokun; Convener, Safe Nigeria Group (SNG) Pastor Tunde Bakare; Chief Ayo Adebanjo; Chief Ladipo Latinwo; Chief Frank Akinrede; Asiwaju Alex Duduyemi; Justice Rosebolt Nonye Ukeje (rtd.) and Chief Joko AkinGeorge.

•Continued on page 26

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

26

SOCIETY IN MEMORY OF A GREAT MAN

• Otunba Adebayo (left) and Chief Olu Okeowo

•Asiwaju Duduyemi

•Admiral Aduwo and Mrs Bola Latinwo

•Chief Dipo Latinwo and Justice Ukeje

•From left: Onisango Of Sango, Ogun State Oba Oluwagbohun Adebayo; Onipapa of Papalanto, Oba Rasaki Famuyiwa and Towulade of Akinade-Owu, Oba Olufemi Ogiunleye

•Prof Fabunmi

•Oba Abimbola Akinyele (left) and Alara of Araromi Okeodo Ife Kingdom, Oba Kolapo Ibiyemi

• From left: Hon Wale Edun; Chief Kemi Nelson and Mr Yemi Osunsan

•Chief Ayo Adebanjo (left) and Chief Frank Akinrele

•Mr Femi Okunade (left) and Prof Odebunmi

•Mr Kola Ogunsanya

•Pastor Bakare

PHOTOS: NIYI ADENIRAN

27

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

SOCIETY

‘Mother in a million’ The remains of Madam Dinah Onyebuchi Igbokwe, mother of Lagos State Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) spokesperson, Mr Joe Igbokwe, have been interred in her country home, Uruagu, Nnewi, Anambra State. NNEKA NWANERI was there.

•Sons of the deceased ( from right) John; Peter; Joe and Hyacinth

•Prince Orizu

•From right: Hon Ilozu; Governor Obi and wife Margaret; Hon Melakaya and Hon Okeke

•Gen Udeh

I

N TEARS, Mr Joe Igbokwe, Lagos State Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), spokesperson, told guests how his late mother, Madam Dinah Onyebuchi Igbokwe toiled for the family. He was giving the vote of thanks at the funeral of his mother when he broke down. With every word he uttered, he sobbed.

“Today’s success has wiped away years of pains and tears,” he said.

Madam Igbokwe died at 85.

Uruagu, Igbokwe’s country home in Anambra State was brimming with sympathisers who came to bid the Igbokwe matriarch farewell.

The late Madam Igbokwe had five children; 23 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

Her residence was creatively decorated in purple and gold satin. Guests, family members, colleagues and associates of her children came in large numbers. There was an influx of people from Lagos. The state’s ACN executives were led by the Assistant Publicity Secretary, Chief Funso Ologunde.

Anambrans were led by Governor Peter Obi and his wife. Others were: former Minister of Information Prof Dora Akunyili; Deputy Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Prince Chukwudu Orizu; Commissioner for Works Mr Calistus Ilozu; his Agriculture counterpart Ndubisi Melakaye; and Education Mrs Uju Okeke; Chirman, Yaba Traders Association, Pastor Okey Anorue; JP Ekwilo; top military personnel and royal fathers.

Members of St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church, Surulere, Lagos brought their members and women guild, who turned up in uniforms. The women wore white blouses and green wrappers with their insignia. The choir members were decked in black regalia with yellow embroidery.

Other sects turned out in their own uniformed attires. There were about 10 different types.

Anglican Bishops of Ihiala; Ideato and Oru led clergymen to the funeral service. Hymns were sung. Bible readings were taken; a brief sermon on the parable of the 10 virgins was explained. All were encouraged to have faith in God. The late Mrs Igbokwe’s first son, John, described his mother as a woman who stood for the truth and fought against injustice.

“My mother singularly raised us.

She had a passion for clean envi-

•Daughters-in-law of the deceased (from left): Ngozi; Beatrice and Dr Grace

•Gabriel Igbokwe and wife Dorcas

•From right: Afeez Danmola; Chief Ologunde; Alhaja Adeola Williams and Alhaja Seidu Sherifat

•Bishop Chukwunenye flanked by Bishop Raph Okafor (left) and Bishop C.A. Maduoma of Owerri Diocese PHOTOS: NNEKA NWANERI

ronment. My brothers and I earned awards as the neatest pupils while in school. She is indeed a virtuous woman,” he said.

Her third son, Joe said he never knew she would live up to 60 because of what she went through in life.

“She was fought in the church, in the stream, the community, at family meetings, in the market... she was a sheep to be slaughtered but she endured it and came out triumphant. My mother is a living

testimony that tough times don’t last but tough people do. The only mother I have known for 56 years died on August 18,” he said.

He recalled how his family lived a good life till the Civil War began in 1967 and they lost all they had.

“I inherited the activism I now portray from my mother. She taught me to convert problems to opportunities. She was an incredible story teller. We always laughed until tears came out of our eyes. My mother is a walking history, a story

that must be told.”

Former Governor of Lagos, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu described the late Mrs Igbokwe as one who lived a fulfilled life by leaving a legacy of activism in her children, one that is worth more than silver and gold.

Governors Babatunde Fashola of Lagos; Adams Oshiomhole (Edo); Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti); Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (Osun) sent condolence messages. Governor Fayemi, represented by one of his special assistants, Mr Biodun Akinsafe, extolled the late matricah

as one who lived a life of fulfilment and impact.

"Though I was not privileged to know her quite intimately, the testimonies concerning her pious life shows Mama Igbokwe was a mother of great virtue, who came quietly but left gloriously with resounding victory at every stage of her life," he said.

Governor Obi said the deceased was not only blessed with longevity, but was also fortunate to raise her children to enviable positions.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

28

•From right: Oba Adekunle; a guest and Mr Adeola Oyinlade

The Osun State government hosted Miss Rahmah Aderinoye, a United Nations (UN) award winner at the Local Government Service Commission Hall, Osogbo. At the event, the Youth for Intellectual Interaction Initiative (YIII), a brainchild of Miss Aderinoye, was launched. AMIDU ARIJE was there.

•Miss Aderinoye (right) and Miss Zacheus

All for a worthy ambassador

S

ATURDAY, November 29, last year was a historic day for Nigeria at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, United States, where the 2012 global Annual Youth Conference was held. Two special themes were chosen for the conference which is generally known as Annual Youth Assembly (AYA). They are ‘Millennium Development Goals’ (MDGs) and ‘Sustainable Development Goals’ (SDGs). The main objective of AYA is to encourage some focused world youth to exhibit their intellectual prowess in proffering solutions to contemporary and future global challenges. There, 23-year old Miss Rahmah Adebodun Aderinoye, a Nigerian studying Biology at the University of Texas, US, dusted 700 other contestants from over 70 countries.

She was declared winner of the competition to the admiration of all.

The laurel automatically qualifies her to become a ‘Fellow of (UN) Resolution and UNICEF global Ambassador. Already, she has been commissioned by UNICEF to develop and work on a concept to empower the vulnerable youths in Africa, an assignment which she sees as a veritable opportunity to further propel the African youths into continental development through a deserving renaissance.

Miss Aderinoye, the daughter of the Deputy Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Prof Rasheed Aderinoye, was hosted to a lavish reception by the Osun State Government at the Local Government Service Commission Hall, Abere, Osogbo, the state capital.

The event featured launching of her non-governmental organisation - Youth for Intellectual Interaction Initiative (YIII).

Osun State Governor Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola was represented by his Special Adviser on Youths, Sports and Special Needs, Comrade Biyi Odunlade.

The Hall was ornately decorated in blue and white satin clothes.

Political titans in the state and traditional rulers turned out en masse.

Brevity of women ushered guests to their

seats.

The event, anchored by Oluwamuyiwa Ayeni, started on a prayer note. It was followed with the recitation of the National Anthem.

Comrade Odunlade before formally launched the NGO, congratulated Miss Aderinoye for the rare feat.

“You have not only made your parent proud, rather our state and Nigeria as a whole. We are indeed proud of you,” he said.

He thanked her for the initiative of the intellectual scheme that would contribute to the empowerment of the youths in the state.

Odunlade expressed the Governor’s desire to associate with the initiative and continue to give his support to it and any other initiatives that aim at developing the youth, saying this is one of the aims of the governor.

“We associate with you and we are in total support of the initiative,” he said.

Osun State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Princess Folake Adegboye thanked Miss Aderinoye for the initiative and implored her not to relent.

She promised that her ministry will make available necessary resources needed for the successful of the project.

The Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdul Rasheed Olabomi hailed the UN Ambassador’s giant stride.

“I really want to praise the efforts of creating a vocational centre where youths would be trained and reduce teeming youths looking for white collar jobs, it is a very good idea and it is a welcome idea for this country, I appreciate it and I want other youths to team up with you,” he said.

Miss Aderinoye thanked God for the success.

She equally expressed gratitude to the guests.

She thanked the Osun State Governor and all the traditional rulers who stood by her to see to the success of the launching.

Given reasons for the establishment of the initiative, Miss Aderionye said idea was conceived because of the level of hunger and poverty in Africa.

•From right: Comrade Odunlade; Princess Adegboye and Prof Aderinoye

•Oba Sulaimon Oloyede (right) and Oba Jimoh Ademola Olatoye

“The idea was conceived as a result of the prevalence of extreme poverty and hunger in our society. This has led to the seeming endless vicious cycle of deplorable living conditions of most Nigerians,” she said.

An elated Miss Aderinoye said the NGO will work to make the youth live a better life.

“Our NGO is poised to rewrite the history of the Nigerian youth for better. The organisation is, therefore, set to embark on

training the youth on vocational skills through well research programmes; we intend to challenge headlong the ever growing monstrous unemployment industry,” she said.

Also in attendance were the Olufon of Ifon, Oba Almaruf Adekunle; Alawe of Ilawe, Oba Abdul Kareem Alao Olatunde; Oye of Isagbe, Oba Adelani Ogunjimi; Alarasan of Alasan, Oba Jimoh Ademola Olatoye and Olugbiji of Igbogiji, Oba Sulaimon Oloyede.

AWARD

ANNIVERSARY

•Executive Producer of Reality TV Show Mr Eshareturi (right) presenting the keys of thecar to the winner of Destiny Child Gospel Talent Hunt Mr Israel Funsho and his wife in Abuja

•From left: Alhji Waheed Thompson; Prof Samsideen Elegba and Alhaji Lateef Olaogun during the 50th anniversary and special prayer of Ansar-Ud-Deen College, Isolo Old Students Association (ADCIOSA) 62 - 66 set, MaryLand, Lagos

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

29

SOCIETY

Their happiest moment The Julius Berger hall of the University of Lagos was filled during the induction of fellows and new members of the Chartered Institute of Local Government and Public Administration of Nigeria (CILGPAN). AMIDU ARIJE reports.

•Hon Faparusi (left) and Hon Akinlade

•Alobo-Bakare (left) receiving a plaque and certificate from Prof Awotokun

I

T was a gathering to accredit new members and honour outstanding players in the public and private sectors.

It was also the 10th anniversary of the Chartered Institute of Local Government and Public Administration of Nigeria (CILGPAN).

The awardees were excited.

The event started at noon when executive members of the body led by its President, Prof A.M Awotokun, filed out in their gowns to conduct the ceremony. They were ushered into the hall amidst a loud applause by awardees and guests.

They were joined on the high table by heads of departments of some higher institutions.

Awotokun declared the ceremony open at about 12.40 pm after the recitation of the Na-

tional Anthem.

After the introduction of guests, he thanked God for the progress recorded in the last 10 years. He charged the new members and fellows to be loyal to the institute.

The Registrar, Dr. Uche Okereke, who anchored the programme, read the citation of the new fellows to the admiration of guests.

After the reading of their citation, each of the inductees were handed a plaque and certificate to authenticate their fellowship and appreciate their contributions to the success of the institute.

Among the fellows are the Managing Director of DHB Construction Company Ltd, Mr Hakeem Alobo-Bakare; Director- General Ekiti State Enterprise Development Agency, Mr

Sylvanus Kehinde Aiyeleso; Member, House of Representatives, Hon Faparusi Bamidele Oyedele; Chairman Bariga Local Council Development Area, Lagos, Hon Akeem Sulaimon; Asiwaju Isiaq Akinlade; former Benue State Permanent Secretary Bureau of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr Emmanuel Atini; Mr Fakeye Taiwo; Chairman House Committee on Science, Education and Technology, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Hon Olabunmi Adeloye; Chief Inspector, Army Education Corps, Ministry of Defence, Mrs Bolanle Muraina.

Others are Prince Kayode Tejuoso; Hon Olusegun Olabimtan; Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Ogun State, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle; Chairman Ogun State Service Commission, Alhaji Olatunde Olugbenle and Ibadan-based business woman, Mrs Oluwafunke Oduntan, among others.

Speaking on behalf of the awardees, Hon Faparusi thanked the institute for the conferment of fellows on them and promised to raise the standard of the institute through promotion of legislative bills that will enhance its effective performance.

The lawmaker said he would work to ensure the independence of local government administration in Nigeria.

He said: "The award is timely considering the constitutional review going on. This honour will

encourage me to go back to the house to legislate on the true independence of the local government administration as the third tier of government, so it is very timely and I will do all I can to make sure the impact of this award is felt in my jurisdiction.

"I think the award has shown that the contribution of the beneficiaries to the society has not gone in vain at all. If you look at the profile of those honoured today, it is clear that they have contributed in one way or the other to the development of this great country. Therefore, it means that, somehow, somebody has been watching or monitoring some of us and our strides in various capacities. I want to advise people to do their best in whatever endeavour and positions they occupy."

An elated Alobo-Bakare described the day as his happiest.

"I am happy and without mincing words, I feel highly elated being honoured today, particularly, by one of the most respected professional institutions in Nigeria.

"Personally, I see today's honour as a challenge to contribute immensely towards the society and to assist the institute to attain the goals for which it was established. God willing, I will live up to the task because I want to be a very good ambassador of the institute," he added.

FUNERAL OF MADAM ESTHER MEDEHUE IN LAGOS

•Otunba Abiodun Onanuga and wife

• From left: Alhaji Kassim Adekunle; Prof Simbo Banjoko and wife Bisi

• Tunde Bannerman; Tayo Omotayo and Lakan Omotayo

• Abiodun Yusuf and wife Dayo

PHOTOS: ADEJO DAVID

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

30

Brandnews

Nigerian Idol: Voting begins for first top 10 N

IGERIAN Hip-Hop Superstar, Naeto-C at the week end debuted at the Etisalatsponsored Nigerian Idol Season 3, guiding the contestants on what it takes to really become a superstar.

The artiste, who came on the show as a guest judge during the first theatre show for the top 30 contestants, took a tough stance in his assessment of the participants during their performances which took place at the Dream Studios in Omole, Lagos. Naeto-C is standing-in for Afrobeat legend and Nigerian Idol Judge, Femi Kuti, who will be absent for one month.

Explaining his stance, he said he was firm in his assessments because he wanted to drive the contestants to bring out their best.

“This is a competition, and when you’re in a contest, you have to bring something extra to the table,” he said, and encouraged them to strive to raise their game. According to him, “it isn’t always the most talented singer that becomes

Stories by Raji Rotimi Solomon

the star at the end of the day. As such, even if you don’t make it through the competition, you should not give up on your career.”

His fellow judges, Jeffrey Daniels and Yinka Davies, echoed similar sentiments and advised the contestants to focus more on their vocal skills and less on their showmanship as the show was about finding the best singer.

Speaking after the show, Head, Events and Sponsorship, Etisalat Nigeria, Modupe Thani, expressed satisfaction with the level of talent that the competition had to offer, stating that the competition will be even stiffer than the previous editions. She said the telecommunications giant was proud to be lead sponsor of the show as it creates a platform for the youths to express

themselves and take their dreams to the next level. “We are committed to continually encouraging and empowering Nigerian youths to achieve their dreams, and Nigerian Idol is one of such platforms through which we intend to do this,” she said.

The first theatre show saw returnee, Obinna Michael, aka Mr Byno making it to the top thirty stage of the competition.

Speaking on his progress, he said: “Making it to this stage is not a small feat, as there were many talented contestants but it is my hope this year that I will progress past this point in this season.”

This season’s winner will go home with N20 million worth of prizes, including N7.5 million in cash, a brand new SUV, and a recording contract with a record label. The first runner–up will receive N1.5 million and a saloon car which will be presented by Etisalat. The show airs on STV, NTA network, TVC, Soundcity and ONTV.

Fidson holds excellence awards ONE of Nigeria’s leading pharmaceutical companies, Fidson Healthcare Plc has once again taken another bold step in its effort to ignite the passion for excellence among its employees with ACE; a newly instituted staff award ceremony which birthed on January 11.

The awards which derives its name from the acronym of its rationale, is designed to Acknowledge and Celebrate Excellence among staff of the company. The maiden edition witnessed a constellation of the company’s staff members, who trouped out from all the regions of the country; all appearing in dark-coloured suits and black ties for the glamorous event under a colourful ambience.

The Managing Director, Fidson Healthcare Plc, Dr Fidelis Ayebae opened the evening with a remark and congratulated all staff members for their efforts and commitment in 2012, especially the six recipients of the ACE who displayed exceptional performance in the course of the year.

“We are here today to acknowledge and celebrate the very best among the best - our teammates who have shown exceptional capabilities in the course of a very challenging financial year in 2012. You nominated them for this award. You have shown exceptional team spirit by nominating them. They are being celebrated today because you not only played with them, but you played for them. You have lighted their candles.

They sparkle today because of the light you shone on them. You are all worthy men and women of excellence,” he said.

Justrite begins promo INDIGENOUS retail outlet, Justrite is set to reward its customers with a brand new Hodan Hyma series 3 car as the grand prize for the promo tagged ‘Chop Life’. The promo, which commenced recently, will run till April.

According to the Branch Manager of the outlet at Abule Egba, Mrs. Yetunde Ibukunolu, the promo which is offering every customer who buys goods worth N10,000 the chance to win a car or some other exciting consolation prizes.

Ibukunolu described the promo as a way of saying “thank you” to customers and to give back to them. “For every purchase of goods worth N10,000 in any of our retail outlets in Sango and Abule Egba, it qualifies the customer for a raffle ticket to win either a car or other consolation prizes. Someone must win that Hodan Hyma Series 3 car”, she emphasised. She added that the draw for the car and other prizes will be held in April."

“Our idea of business is to reach those in the interior because we want them to know that they too can also enjoy what the high class in the society is enjoying. We also drive our business on the fact that every good thing is meant for everyone to benefit,” she said.

Ibukunola dismissed the rumour that there is a foreign interest in the ownership of the retail outlet. She noted that Justrite is strictly an indigenous organisation which is not affiliated with any foreign body, it is 100 per cent owned by Nigeria.

She revealed that the establishment of the various outlets in strategic locations between Ogun and Lagos states has created gainful employments to some Nigerians thereby reducing the number of unemployed in the various locations.

Cannes Lions: Registration opens • From left: Wife of the Divisional Manager, (West and North), Fidson Healthcare Plc, Mrs Bolanle Afolaogun; winner of the Leadership Excellence Award, Mr Rotimi Afolaogun and a director, Fidson Healthcare Plc, Mrs Olufunmilola Ayebae, during the presentation of the 2012 ACE event in Lagos.

Winner emerges in Dealdey promo

A

27-year-old Pharmacist from Madonna University, Busola Odunlami has emerged the winner of a Picanto Kia car by an Online Shopping Mail, Dealdey Limited recently in Ikoyi, Lagos.

Odunlami clinched the prize among the eight finalists selected for the final phase of the promo for their subscribers in Lagos. The other three finalists which are Stella Daniel, Babajide Ajilola and Oladapo Ojo

By Adeola Ogunlade

got N10,000 each and a DVD player.

Speaking at the event, the Vice President, Sales, DealDey, Etebarian Sanaz, said the giveaway was aimed at appreciating and rewarding customers for the patronage of their business in the outgoing year.

“We are impressed by our acceptability and the patronage we get from our subscribers which have been tremendous and fruitful. We promise

to always show our appreciation whenever we can with the firm support of our sponsors,” she said.

In her response, Odunlami, said: “I am very excited by this gift as it is a dream come through and I give all the glory to God. I was recently introduced to the online mail and I have purchased a few things with them.”

She promised to always patronise the company and urged others to explore the opportunities available on the internet.

CASRO endorses Nigerian firm

T

HE Council of American Survey Research Organisation (CASRO) has admitted Random Dynamic Resources, an indigenous fast-growing market research company as a member of the association when it profiled the company on its latest newsletter edition.

CASRO used the platform to underscore various contributions the foremost fieldwork company has made in delivering quality market research data to its international partners like Millward Brown, Nielsen, GFK, TNS, Ask Afrika and other local companies in Nigeria.

It was revealed that among the many countries and industries yearning for the opinions of African consumers, the South East Asia (South Korea and China) and Europe regions still lead the pack. With a

rising interest coming from UK companies in sectors like the mobile telephony, Info tech, and FMCGs (Fast Moving Consumer Goods).

According to the Chief Executive Officer, Random Dynamic Resources, Mr. Paul Nnanwobu, “the most effective method of data collection in most African markets is Pen and Paper, Face to Face Interviews (PAPI-F2F) and it accounts for approximately 80 per cent of any research process.”

While for the online data collection, the procedure has not gained footing due to unreliable slow internet and telephone connectivity, he said.

Nnanwobu noted that in some countries like Nigeria, South Africa and Kenya, data collected via PAPI can be entered using an online data entry link and the use of social net-

work sites like Facebook, Linkedin, etc to collect data is just beginning to bud and has not gained much momentum. Other methods, like video streaming for focus group research are still in the experimental stage. He said the inability to use technology to achieve quicker results is part of the several challenges faced in the reduction of project turnaround time.

Research has shown that the infrastructural decay and insecurity in Nigeria also contribute to the challenges in fieldwork as communal clashes, ethnic tensions and acts of terrorism are being perpetrated in every nook and cranny in Africa. Without regular electricity supply, it is difficult to maintain a steady workflow, also meet deadlines which are the basis of research analysis.

CELEBRATING 60 years of creativity this year, the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity has commenced delegate registrations.

Delegates can choose from a range of packages, including 7-day, 4-day and 3-day registrations, all providing access to unrivalled world-class content and stimulating exhibitions showcasing the best of global creativity in communications. For the younger Lions, special discounted packages are available for young creatives, young account executives, young marketers and students, helping to provide the next generation with invaluable learning opportunities. All Festival attendees are eligible for preferential rates on accommodation. The online accommodation guide offers possibilities for all budgets and preferences and can be viewed on the website at: www.canneslions.com/the_festival/accommodation.cfm.

Launching this year, the Cannes Lions Premier Package is the Festival’s new and exclusive VIP package. Alongside all of the benefits of a full registration it also offers a guaranteed room at one of the 5* hotels on the Croisette, a VIP registration to avoid having to wait in line for badge collection, entry to the VIP areas at the Opening and Closing Galas, a reserved seat at all four Awards Ceremonies and a chauffeured limousine pick-up and drop-off at Nice airport. Only a limited number of Premier Packages, which go on sale today, are available to purchase.

Lagos boosts investment with countdown festival WITH the recently held Lagos Countdown Carnival which climaxed on new-year’s eve, the Lagos State government has reaffirmed its resolve to attract foreign investment into the state, with its business-friendly policies, infrastructure and tourist attractions.

The Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Lateef Aderemi Ibirogba, said this on Tuesday, in Lagos, during the Lagos Countdown – a cross-over event driven by the Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA). He said the government is leveraging the proposition of Lagos as a premium destination for business and leisure, with tourism platforms such as the countdown.

“The Lagos Countdown was conceived to place Lagos on the same scale with cities such as Sydney, London, New York and Los Angeles, which have been know world-wide to celebrate the entry of each year with colourful festivities, while attracting thousands of tourists and businesses with each edition,” he said.

He further stated that the event boosts the micro economy of the state and also rehabilitates and employs the majority of the high-risk youth and individuals, popularly called area boys, who usually cause nuisance to their communities during the festive seasons. An estimated 615 individuals were employed during the course of the event, and majority of these previously unemployed individuals also benefited from the training programmes that were organised to assist them discharge their functions.

SHOPPING

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THE NATION

FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

Website:- http://www.thenationonlineng.net

e-mail: janicenkoli@yahoo.com 08033349992 sms only

email:- shopping@thenationonlineng.net

•PoS

The cash-less revolution catches on It was a concept they initially kicked against. Now, more outfits, such as hair and beauty salons, restaurants, hotels and shops are going cash-less. They have point-of-sale (PoS) where shoppers can pay with the Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards. JANICE NKOLI reports.

•STORY ON PAGE 32

Beautiful homes quality paints make

Page 33

Shop for items that get you organised

Page 34

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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SHOPPING

The cash-less revolution catches on W

HENEVER you are using your Master card, Verve or Visa Card, one of the signs you see on the Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is ‘shop anywhere around the world’. This means once you have any of those cards you can use it to withdraw money from any ATM or use it to make outright payment. This way, there is no need to carry cash around and many shoppers are actually enjoying it.

Last year, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) started using Lagos as a pilot state for the policy. Expectedly, many initially resisted embracing the concept. Now, they have had a change of mind. Some hair and beauty stores, restaurants, hotels, fast food joints and shops have point-of-sale (PoS) where shoppers can use their ATM cards.

Right now, anyone who is setting up a shop must make room for it. Many supermarkets are also upgrading their stores with the PoS. For Mrs Latifat Mohammed, who runs a cement shop, one has to move with the times. “One has to imbibe change whenever it comes. You must be up to date and that is what I am doing for my business. I have this particular customer; the first time she came to my shop, she said she was delayed because she had to first go to the bank to cash the money with which she would use to buy. She showed relief when I told her that she did not need to go to the bank next time since she could use her card to pay right in my shop. It has also fetched me more refined customers,” she said”.

Shoppers who spoke to the Nation Shopping told of its advantages.

Mrs Stella Achike, a banker expressed her excitement the first time she used the Point of Sales at the City Mall, Onikan, Lagos.

She said: “That day, I ran out of money but saw this baby’s dress I could not ignore for my baby. When I told them that I had run out of cash, they suggested I used Point of Sale. It had never occurred to me before that day. Since then, I do not bother myself anymore as long as I have my card. I do same when I travel abroad, so it’s just so good”, she enthused.

Mr Niyi Ajayi, a civil servant said: “In those days, whenever there was a long holiday, one would withdraw so much money, which most of the time necessitated in wasteful spending. But now, I simply withdraw what I need when it is necessary”.

•PoS terminal

Another shopper, Mrs Rita Igho observed: “I actually shop with my credit card in Nigeria and abroad. It is good that we have advanced in such a way that one can use the same credit card to shop in any part of the world.”

Many have raised eyebrows at the feasibility of cashless shopping in a cash cow as Nigeria. It can only operate under a formal retail environment and so far, while Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and probably, Enugu, can boast of a few, several parts of the country are still accustomed to informal shopping.

A shopper, Mr Kelechi Iwundu, said: “As a matter of conservatism, we are already used to cash transactions so we need time to adjust to cashless shopping. We have made a success of the ATM withdrawal.

What we do now, is to withdraw money from the ATM and then go and shop”.

The PoS system software can typically handle myriad customer based functions such as sales, returns, exchanges, gift cards, gift registries, customer loyalty programmes, quantity discounts and much more. PoS software can also allow for functions such as pre-planned promotional sales, manufacturer coupon validation, foreign currency handling and multiple payment types.

The PoS is often customised to suit the particular industry using it, as different industries have different needs. For example, a grocery or candy store will need a scale at the point of sale, while bars and restaurants will need to customise the item sold when a customer has a special meal or

drink request. The modern point of sale also includes advanced functionalities to cater to different verticals, such as inventory, CRM, financials, warehousing, and so on, all built into the PoS software. Prior to the modern PoS, all of these functions were done independently and required the manual re-keying of information, which resulted in a lot of errors.

The PoS system software can typically handle myriad customer based functions such as sales, returns, exchanges, gift cards, gift registries, customer loyalty programmes, quantity discounts and much more. PoS software can also allow for functions such as pre-planned promotional sales, manufacturer coupon validation, foreign currency handling and multiple payment types.

Beautiful homes quality paints make The colour of paint you choose will highlight the most beautiful features of your home. Skilful use of colours can disguise design flaws, boosting the curb appeal and market value of your home, reports TONIA’DIYAN.

C

HOOSING the perfect paint colour to transform your home could be stressful. Before painting a structure, take time to plan out how you want the space to look and feel.

Painting your house will give it a fresh look and neater appearance. In undertaking the project, you need to know how much you will spend and the colour of paint you prefer.

Prices vary from N800 to N5000 per bucket depending on the size and quality.

Though price is an indicator of quality, when buying, go with reputable brands like Top Charm Paints, Milkalux Paints, Premier Paints, President Paints, Climax Paints and Banex Paints among others.

Mind you, there are significant differences between cheap and quality paints. You are likely to find a more extensive colour palette in the quality lines; there are differences in the quality level of various paints.

It is amazing how a good paint can transform the appearance of a home. There are lots of paints in the market, all promising to give excellent results. But the tips here will really help you if you are confused, after all, the paint colour will set the tone for the room.

It is important to choose interior paint for interior surfaces and exterior paint for exterior surfaces because interior paint dries more •House paint

• Continued on Page 34

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THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

SHOPPING Shop for items that get you organised With the New Year celebrations over, it is business as usual but some are still finding it difficult to put things in order. How do you organise youself? Here are tips from JANICE NKOLI.

Shopping Right with

Where are the traders?

I

•Wall organiser

A

LL offices and markets have resumed work in earnest after the festive period but some people are still trying to adapt to the working environment. Some people’s homes remain in bad shape. Some have already become so busy that their homes are in a mess.

But you could still find time to get your home and personal effects organised. It is always good to have everything in its place.

Some of the items to enable you achieve this are wall organisers, shoe organisers, cabinets, shelves, wardrobes, bags and wallets. These items are not difficult to find. Virtually every market has different types of organisers on display. The shopping malls even have very fashionable ones for stylish shoppers.

Mrs Evelyn Okoro is one of those still finding it difficult to get her home organised after her grand children came visiting during the holidays. She was very happy to have them around; she invited them over. By the time they left, her house was topsy turvy. She is still trying to put things in order. If you are like her, here are some tips to help you.

If you know that you are not naturally inclined to be organised, you can change that by starting with one small area of your living space and focusing on keeping that small area organised. Keeping a small area organised over time is easier to do, and it will help you build a new habit. After some time, you will naturally tend to expand your new-found organising instincts to other areas.

Remember: Organised minds make successful people.

Organise your space. Whether it is your home,

• Shoe organiser

bedroom, kitchen, office, computer, closet, desk, or locker, you need to see what is in there, throw away anything you do not often use (or put it efficiently in storage) and give everything else a convenient and clearly designated space.

Clean out your belongings before you think about organising Do not do it the other way around. You can accurately know what space you have when you have cleaned up. If you do not take a hard look at what you are stuffing in your spaces, you will waste time and money organising stuff you do not need.

Observe how you use your things and work out how to use your space efficiently. If it is inconvenient to get to things (or to put them away), your organisation system is more likely to fail. Make it easy to get to and put away the things you need most often. In that vein, put things where you use them most. Pots get stored near the stove, envelopes and stamps are stored in the desk, stain remover and bleach goes in the laundry room or linen closet. (It sounds obvious, but you’ would be surprised how many people just put things “wherever” and then are surprised when doing anything is tremendously inconvenient.)

Do you have items in your house that just take up space? Be sure to de-clutter regularly.

Good questions to ask yourself in deciding: Do I need this? Will I need this in a year? Have I used this in the last year? Do I really love it? Is there someone else who could use this more?

Do I have more than I could reasonably use in foreseeable future? Will I miss this if I do not have it?

N 2009, when the Lagos State government began the sanitisation of notorious markets, many believed it would not last.

Four years down the line, the markets have only remained sanitised but also upgraded with car parks and other convenience facilities.

It has not seized to amaze me whenever I drive through places such as Oshodi, Mushin, Oyingbo, Iddo, Aswani, Alaba, Oyingbo, Mile 12 and actually, many markets in Lagos.

In the past, most of these places constituted great menace as a result of trading and vehicular traffic.

The transformation of Oshodi in particular has not seized to amaze me. This is a place I dreaded because of its rowdy nature and traffic JANICE NKOLI logjam. Trading took virtually every space available by the road side. Dirt and debris dey come o’ You should have seen how cluttered every where. The drains were over instantly they gathered their wares out of the full and stinking. There was no barrier between rail lines. As soon as the train had passed, vehicles, traders and commuters. They all every thing went back on display. Every now intercepted one another. Vehicles struggled and then, On coming train crushed traders for the roads with traders who occupied the selling on the railway line. It was such a nasty tiniest space they found and buyers hardly sight to behold. finding where to stand.

I also witnessed a similar incident at Yaba The rain made it worse. It was acclaimed a market. I visited shortly before the rail line very notorious place. Several attempts were traders were evacuated. Just behind the set of made in the past to cleanse this central area stalls was the rail line. The rail line had been which tainted the Centre of Excellence. From turned to a clothing market of sorts; the sale time to time, the road side stalls and shanties of fairly used clothing otherwise called bend would be demolished to discourage people down boutique. I watched in bewilderment as from trading in them. In a matter of days, the the traders sang and danced, raising the hips topsy turvy came back refueled. It was such a of clothes back sordid spectacle. Then, those and forth as a who displayed wares outside of creating ‘Another sordid sight is way their shops must be watchful entertainment to because their goods could be still very fresh in my attract buyers. carted away in a twinkle of an Before long, a memory.

I was the manner eye. Hoodlums always had a train was field day. Pick pockets had a in which traders displayed approaching with convenient environment to great speed. operate, just as jungle justice their wares on the rails. I Unlike the Oshodi was the order of the day. asked some of them: “what scenery where the You would never be able to traders moved a identify the parks and the if a train is coming”? One good distance trading arena. Motorists replied: “Enn them go horn away from the parked their vehicles as coming train, haphazardly as trading took for us now”. I found it so these Yaba traders place. The infamous molues, awkward that I left the m e r e l y now almost phased out, were place immediately’ sidetracked by a constant pain in the neck as merely an inch or they randomly distorted the two and pushed movement of traffic. The commuter buses were back their goods and continued their spectacle no better; they obstructed all traffic rules. The as if nothing had happened. You would think okada riders constituted more nuisance than the train ran over someone’s feet. They were ever, meandering between automobiles, even laughing at my awe. Would I say it was resulting in fatal accidents. Extortion of money funny? Not in the least. by the area boys was rampant.

Another grimy one happened at Cele bus How about selling on the rail ways? Imagine stop, along the Badagry Expressway. It is a a scenario where people displayed their wares major stop with huge market along that route. in the middle of the rail roads and all around The usual thing then was that roadside traders it only to start parking at the sound of a train displayed their goods very close to the coming. As soon as the train had passed, they expressway. It was in the hit of this kind of displayed their goods and trading continued. trading that a trailer conveying fuel failed its Not even the many accidents would make break and ran into every trader on sight. The the illegal traders relent. “Man must wak”, substance it carried made it easy for those they would tell you. who were not crushed to be burnt alive. It People endangered their lives daily in the was such a tragedy which had also occurred guise of making a living. several times.

Oshodi is now such a delightful route to Another sordid sight is still very fresh in take. So are Mushin, Aswani and many other my memory. I was the manner in which places. Some times I look around and almost traders displayed their wares on the rails. I ask: where are the traders? And where are asked some of them: “what if a train is the commuter buses? Of course they are still coming”? One replied: “Enn them go horn for there but now work as orderly as never us now”. I found it so awkward that I left the before. place immediately.

The lesson here is continuity. Governor Just then, a loud long blaring horn Fashola took over the mantle of leadership announced the passing of a train. I stopped and continued where his predecessor, Asiwaju and watched from a good distance. There Bola Tinubu stopped. Governments at all levels were shouts of ‘they are coming o’, ‘dem don ought to emulate such.

Write to us, express your views, observations and experiences. Let’s have your comments about shopping. Your comments, questions and answers will be published first Friday of every month. With your full name and occupation, send e-mail to: janicenkoli@yahoo.com SMS - 08033349992

34

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

SHOPPING

• The Ikeja City Mall

Normalcy returns to Ikeja City Mall after fire S HOPPING activities have resumed after the fire incident that would have burnt down the Ikeja City Mall on Tuesday.

Mr Price, where the fire started, is the second largest store in the mall after Shoprite. It is also a South African store which stocks designer clothing, bags and shoes.

After the fire outbreak shopping activities returned. At 3pm all entrances to the mall were opened to shoppers and shop owners who did not hesitate to do what they know how to do best.

The atmosphere did not show that there

By Tonia ‘Diyan

had been a fire outbreak. A shopper said: “Let’s just thank God that it wasn’t anything serious”.

The Nation Shopping visited the mall and met shoppers as usual. A lady, Miss Beauty said she heard from a source that Mr Price lost N1million due to the incident.

However, a security official who pleaded anonymity said the security office got an alert immediately the fire broke out. “This mall is built in a way that when such things happen, we are alerted immediately. I would say we got to know even before the

shop owners. When their staff ran to us to tell us about it, we were already on our way to the store.

“As far as I am concerned, there was no loss of property or life, if you have heard something different from this, it is false and a mere rumour. People are bound to talk, we have competent hands and we are always alert. We do our jobs when and how it should be done”, said the security officer.

The operation manager of Mr Price, Mr Steve Idornique, said it could have happened in any of the shops. “It was caused by partial contact from a power point and we are happy we have a testimony instead

of lamenting”.

We haven’t lost anything or anyone. Everything was placed under control immediately, thanks to the management and the fire service. It is only normal to allow shoppers move out of the mall for safety reasons. We were also advised to leave the building at the time.”

Mr Fadipe Idowu, the director of the state fire service, said the electrical surge ingited all the bulbs in the shop resulting in the fire.

The General Manager of the State Emergency Management Agency, Dr Femi OkeOsanyintolu, said “It would have had a disastrous effect on the mall as a whole.”

Beautiful homes quality paints make • Continued from Page 32

quickly and has less offensive odour compared to exterior paint, which dries more slowly.

There are different types of paints available. Gloss paints are suitable for areas that might require frequent cleaning, like kitchen, bath cabinets and walls. Semi-gloss paint is durable, but with less shine. Satin

• Good paint job for a good house interior

paint is also easy to clean, but has a low shine.

For walls in bedrooms, living rooms and family rooms, eggshell is a good choice, with a barely discernable gloss. Flat paint has almost no reflective quality, making it a good choice for walls and ceilings with irregularities.

Do not forget to visit your local paint store, you are sure to find the best shade always.

It is wise to choose colours that set your house apart, without clashing with nearby buildings. The colour should harmonise the roof and colours already present in the house.

The colour of your furnishings will guide you in choosing your interior paint colours, and your interior paint colours will definitely influence the colours you use outside.

Once again, your goal is to harmonise.

Depending on the size and complexity of

your home, you may choose as many colours as you want. Select colours for doors and window frame. But be careful, so that too many colours do not overwhelm your house and too few would not make it seem flat and uninteresting.

You want to get it right the first time so you would paint in a couple of years. One of the most important decisions you would face is choosing the right paint.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

W

HAT informed the clamour for international hotel brands by investors and patrons in Nigeria in recent times? A cursory flashback into the history of hotel and hospitality branding in Nigeria would perhaps offer a ready answer.

Nigeria’s oldest hotel, the Lagos Airport Hotels, Ikeja was established as Ann’s Inn in 1942 by a Briton, Sir Joseph Harold until it was bought over from him by the Odua Group of companies under the regime of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo in the then Western Region.

Since then, the Lagos Airport Hotel has gone through a series of transformation including a recent rebranding pact with a foreign partner to make it more competitive in the market. In 1960 at the dawn of Independence, the federal government set up the Federal Palace Hotel currently owned by the Ibru family. The Festac Hotel established in 1977 in commemoration of the black Africa Arts festival was recently ceded to the Golden Tullip Hotel Group, an international brand.

The acquisition of these hotel brands by reputable or global brands has its root in brand and branding. And this is because the hotel and hospitality business has a lot to do with experience.

And that’s why a tourist who once patronised a Sheraton in China will definitely find it more convenient to sleep in a Sheraton Hotel in Lagos. Giving reason for this consumer behaviour, the mercuric British entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin Group, Sir Richard Branson in his book, Business Stripped Bare said: “Brands, remember, are about meanings.

Every brand means something, and nobody can ever really control all the meanings a brand acquires. Brands are ideas. They are tangles of association. They are dreams. Whatever your brand stands for, you have to deliver on the promise.

Don’t promise what you can’t deliver, and deliver everything you promise.”

This brand experience underscores the reason why most Nigerian hoteliers now partner renowned global brands in branding their hotels. In marketing parlance, this term is described as franchising. And so what is in a name? A lot.

A marketable name will attract positive affectation from prospects. According to Al Ries and Jack Trout in the book, Positioning, “Choosing a name is like driving a racing car. To win, you have to take chances. A good name is the best insurance for long term success.”

Besides, a good name, the quality of offerings, management and staff play salient role in the hospitality business. In defining hotel business, Ken Ojerinde, a former managing director of Lagos Airport Hotel said: “A hotel is an enterprise that offers food, drinks and accommodation to people who desire such services and have the ability to pay for them. The person who runs such an outfit is a hotelier and what he does is hotel management.

If you have to take care of people, to take care of their comfort and make them feel like they are home away from home, then you must be a warm hearted, open-minded person who is always willing to put people’s needs above your convenience.

You must be patient enough, willing to

Random thoughts on branding help and make the client comfortable even at great personal risk.

You need much strength and perseverance because there are difficult guests you must of necessity be able to manage. A hotelier’s job has a high content of public relations. Food and wine, drinks and accommodation are things that have different standards and are served under different conditions.”

In Nigeria today, aside from oil and gas, the hospitality and tourism sector is a veritable goldmine. Besides, the hospitality and tourism sector if well developed and managed is a potential vehicle for rebranding a nation.

According to Otunba Segun Runsewe, Director-General, Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation NTDC), “Tourism is a veritable tool for rebranding a nation. It is also a multi-billion dollar spinning sector if well harnessed by stakeholders in the country. That’s why countries where tourism is appreciated and well developed, all the stakeholders and even the countries are better for it. And this is one of the reasons that informed our campaign that, ‘Oil exhaustible, tourism sustainable.’ By the time the country’s tourism is well developed, Nigeria can make more money from tourism than what it is currently making from oil.”

Indeed the hospitality and tourism play a very important role in destination branding. Countries like France, Island of Malta, Saudi Arabia, Israel, Gambia and South Africa have been leveraging on this to draw investments into their countries.

As a tourism destination point a country will not only attract foreign investments, it will develop beyond the expectation of its citizenry. But for a country to be recognised and acclaimed as a tourist haven, the issue of security must be tackled with utmost seriousness by those in government. Hotels will not only boost the tourism industry, they are also going to help in the sustenance of the aviation industry.

• Segun Runsewe

‘Tourism is a veritable tool for rebranding a nation.

It is also a multi-billion dollar spinning sector if well harnessed by stakeholders in the country.

That’s why countries where tourism is appreciated and well developed, all the stakeholders and even the countries are better for it’

35

Choice T

HAT is why you are here, reading this. cannot live without their mobile phones, It also gets you to your present station. cannot leave home without them and, if The number of choices you have made given a choice, would rather lose their over the years pushed you to where you are wallet. now. It lifts you from one location to another Referring to mobile phones as the “remote place. It gets you to the height you have control” for life, market research firm attained. If you have missed some Synovate’s poll said cell phones are so opportunities, it must have been because of ubiquitous that by 2010 more humans owned the choices you did or did not make. more mobile phones. That is why right now Moreover, if you had walked in just about the global total number of people with the the time the door of opportunities opened, mobile is over two billion. would you say it is a mere coincidence? No, For instance, Nigeria has over 90 million itis a combination of steps you have taken mobile phones. Three-quarters of the more prior to the door opening. This is not a mere than 8,000 respondents polled online in coincidence. It is a choice.

11countries replied that they take their However, every day you make a number phones with them everywhere. Russians and of choices, in different ways, for different Singaporeans are the most attached. That is reasons, at different stations. For instance, a choice. you may have be torn between deciding if More than a third also said they could not you should take up an employment live without their phone, topped by opportunity in the oil and gas sector where Taiwanese and again Singaporeans, while you have the assurance ofearning load of one in four would find it harder to replace cash and many development and learning the mobile than their purse. Some two-thirds opportunities. of respondents go to bed with their phones You may have had a hard time deciding nearby and cannot switch them off, even whether you should sleep while your though they want to, because they are afraid colleagues work harder. You may have had they will miss something. Mobile phones a harder time deciding whether to give you safety. Mobile phones give you concentrate all your efforts at completing a security. project on schedule, irrespective of the Mobile phones give you instant access to constraints and challenges involved. information. Mobile phones are the number On the one hand, you may have been one tool of communication for you and struggling with several thoughts such as millions of people across the world. should you delay the project a week more to Sometimes, it surpasses face-to-face communication. ensure the board Mobile phones are approves extra b u d g e t a r y ‘Mobile phones give you connections to your life, true. If you leave allocation, or should instant access to information. home without your you employ the phone, it pretty woman with a Mobile phones are the number mobile would seem as if an Masters degree but part of without the one tool of communication for important your anatomy is necessary experience to push the project you and millions of people missing.

You would through, or should you employ the across the world. Sometimes, it instinctively feel vulnerable, as if you other woman surpasses face-to-face com- were missing without a certificate something vital, but with a wealth of munication.

Mobile phones are vital to your world, experience to deliver to your world the project on time connections to your life, true. If vital of friends and and on budget, or should you buy a you leave home without your business associates.

You are not alone. It brand new car or mobile phone, it would seem as is like that with lease one after the everybody even in completion of the if an important part of your the most advanced project? countries of the On the other hand, anatomy is missing’ world. People of the you may have been world are the same, called to choose between travelling by air or by road, and you would see shortly.

You would think Nigeria is the only place wearing a grey suit without a tie or a black suit with a tie. This may sound trite, but, if on earth where mobile phones have torn you are a wife who has to please a relationships apart, separating lovers and demanding husband daily, you would agree married couples. No, it is happening it is not. Here it is: Should you prepare elsewhere. According to the survey mobile pounded yam and egusi soup, or rice and phones have also changed the nature of chicken for dinner? Or should junior be relationships with nearly half of all enrolled in a private university or a public respondents using SMSes to flirt, a fifth set up first-dates via text and almost the same one?

Or should you marry your childhood love number use the same method to end a love or settle with the stunning model? Whatever affair. Apart from the obvious calling and your choice, it flows back to you, and in most SMS-ing, the top three features people use cases, it determines where your flower regularly on their mobile phones globally grows. Or not. In retrospect, some of the are the alarm clock, the camera and games.

Ditto for Nigeria. As for email and Internet choices you have made have actually moved you to where you are today. For instance, access, 17 per cent of respondents said they the choice of where you work. checked their inboxes or surfed the Web off A great company in the making, but in your their phones, lead by those in the United heart of hearts, that is not your final States and Britain. Ditto for Nigeria. One in destination. Or so you thought. This is your 10 respondents log onto social networking ninth year, anyway. In addition, you have websites such as Facebook and MySpace had rapid promotions. The job is enriching. regularly via mobile, again led by Britain The money is good. However, that is where and the United States. It is a pity Nigeria is you are now, and it has enriched your life in not included in the survey. ways you cannot imagine. You met your wife Nevertheless, the mannerism and addiction in this same office. Moreover, she has turned to the mobile phones is as real in Nigeria as to out to be the woman who stole your ‘ribs’. it is in those countries. Are you addicted to Therefore, if you were asked to choose your mobile phone? What is your attitude between your mother and wife, between to the mobile phone? Whatever is your your cash and your life, between your cell answer is also a matter of choice. The choices phone and wallet, how would you respond? you have made make you. So, what choices A global survey has found that most people are you making now?

*Editor - Wale Alabi *Consulting Editors - Rarzack Olaegbe, Sola Fanawopo * Correspondent-Jimi David * Business Development - Kenny Hussain * Legal Adviser - Olasupo Osewa & Co Brandweek is powered by Brandz Republic Consulting and published every Friday in THE NATION newspaper.

All correspondence to the editor - 0808.247.7806, 0805.618.0040, e-mail: korede2000@gmail.com © All rights reserved.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

36

COMMENTARY

FEMI ABBAS ON

G

REATNESS of a nation is invariably determined not by those who govern her but by the use to which the ordinary citizens of such a nation put their endowed talents and skills. No nation can ever be great in the absence of her citizens.

As a matter of fact, nothing is called a nation without the people who inhabit the landmass of the concerned area and deploy their skills for the development of its resources. In a nutshell, it is the combined greatness of individual citizens that often constitutes the greatness of any nation. That is why all responsible governments encourage citizens of their countries to strive for lofty heights in all field of human endeavour. Ironically, however, while some nations become great because of their citizens’ skills, others remain static because of their governments’ inaction. Nigeria belongs to the latter. But despite the continuous inaction of her government, this most populous African country luckily continues to enjoy the benefit of international glory often wrought by the personal efforts of her talented citizens.

Saturday, November 29, 2012 was a unique historic day of glory for Nigeria at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, where the 2012 global Annual Youth Conference was held. Two special themes were chosen for the conference which is generally known as Annual Youth Assembly (AYA). One of those themes is ‘Millennium Development Goals’ (MDG). The other is ‘Sustainable Development Goals’ (SDG). The main objective of AYA is to encourage some focused world youths to exhibit their intellectual prowess in proffering solutions to contemporary and future global challenges. It is organised at the instance of the ‘Friendship Ambassadors Foundation’ (FAF).

Present at the November 2012 conference were some shakers and movers of global events from all parts of the world including permanent representatives of the various countries at the United Nations. They clustered the venue of the conference like a galaxy of stars waiting to usher the world’s most ingenuous leaders of tomorrow into today’s Hall of Fame with a chorus of KUDOS! The event was beamed live to virtually all parts of the world through various TV Cable Networks. The historic announcement of the winners which climaxed the one week event was greeted with a thunderous applause and overwhelming ovation. Out of the 700 hundred contestants from more than 70 countries of the world, three best winners emerged at the occasion.

One of them was from Africa. Another was from Asia while the third was from South America. When the glorious moment of announcing the very best of the three finalists came, a grave but anxious silence descended on the hall. This was followed by a lone baritone voice that announced thus: “.....And the winner is RAHMAH ADERINOYE FROM NIGERIA!!!!! The audience roared into an unprecedented ecstasy of jubilation hugging and shaking hands with one another just as the chanting of CONGRATULATIONS rented the air for several minutes with songs of joy. Rahmah had beaten the two other finalists from China and Haiti to the second and third positions respectively. It was indeed, a rare moment of glory for a comatose country like Nigeria dangling ceaselessly like a pendulum with a noose on the altar of dysfunction. History was made once again by a Nigerian for Nigeria but without an input from the latter. An unfortunate incident at that moment, however, was the conspicuous absence of any official from Nigeria. While all other participants were officially accompanied and supported by the representatives of their countries, as usual, no notable Nigerian official representative was there. Unlike what obtains in focused countries, Nigeria does not attach any importance to assisting or supporting her own citizens in making any glory of that sort.

As a country, she prefers to proclaim any individual who, out of personal effort, makes glory as her worthy citizen. And that preference was demonstrated again at the 2012 AYA conference. That Nigeria was not officially represented on such a glorious occasion cannot be a surprise to anybody who knows this country very well. After all, a similar incident occurred in March 1987 when a onetime Grand Qadi of Northern Nigeria, the late Sheikh Abubakar Mahmud Gumi won the prestigious King Faisal Award just six months after Wole Soyinka won Nobel Laurel in September 1986. And while the foreign press was celebrating the honour days and nights, the

Femabbas@yahoo.com 08122697498

The world’s best

•Ms Aderinoye

same Federal Government which sent a powerful delegation to accompany Wole Soyinka to Stockholm (in Sweden) six months earlier remained nonchalant. It took yours sincerely to write on the matter severally (then in The Concord) pointing out the government’s hypocrisy and religious bias before something could be done at the federal level. And by the time the then General Ibrahim Babangidaled government decided half-heartedly to congratulate Sheikh Gumi and accept to play a role, all arrangements had been privately completed by the late Bashorun MKO Abiola who volunteered to bear the entire cost.

It was he (Abiola) who invited about 200 eminent Nigerians to form a delegation which was to accompany Sheikh Gumi to Riyadh, (the Saudi Arabian capital) where the award was to be given. He also provided their travelling tickets and Basic Travelling Allowance (BTA) even as he chartered the Jumbo Jet that conveyed them. The then government only stepped in belatedly following my series of articles and that was on the suspicion that Bashorun Abiola might use the event to score a political point. Thus, if we have a government in place today which repeated such episode by choosing to be indifferent to the great honour won for Nigeria

by Rahmah; it should not be a surprise. The sadistic tradition has long been established.

Thank God, however, that the name of this brilliant future leader did not come up at that level in connection with cocaine pushing or human trafficking which would have automatically attracted the attention of our government and Nigerian Press. The 1987 episode is recalled here because yours sincerely was on the two mentioned (Stockholm and Riyal) delegations.

Who is Rahmah Aderinoye?

The common question on the lips of most people who witnessed the 2012 MDG event and which may also become the main question from many readers of this column is the one above. Who is Rahmah Aderinoye? And the answer to that question is not far-fetched.

Rahmah Adebodun Aderinoye is a tender female University student with the heart of a brave male. She is the fifth and last child of her parents but also the fourth daughter. Her natural visage betrays her intellectual mien.

In appearance, she looks half her father and half her mother an indication that she cuts a chip of each of the two parents. Rahmah Aderinoye, a Nigerian student of Biology at the University of Texas (USA), is vigorously proving to be a sucker rather than a bud in her family tree. And like any potent sucker, her burning desire is to outgrow the stem and foliages of that consanguine tree without minding any local tradition accorded her gender. Her pedigree is strong, no doubt, but her towering surge is independent of that pedigree as she charts her course ahead with little expectation of any assistance from any particular individual. She has caught a niche for herself in a world where even older adults

refuse to be weaned from their parental ladle.

Born to Professor Rasheed and Hajia Biqis Aderinoye in Ibadan about 23 years ago and christened Rahmah (meaning Blessing) this courageous young woman is truly becoming a universal blessing not only to her parents or her country but also to African continent as well as the global Muslim Ummah.

Already, without prompting, she has chosen to be an Ambassador Plenipotentiary for her fatherland as she flies the latter’s green-white-green flag loftily and admirably at the international level without asking the forbidden question of ‘what can my country do for me?. By all means, Rahmah epitomises the new dream generation with a life ambition to put Nigeria on the special map of success story.

Now a final year biology student at the University of Texas, Arlington, USA, Rahmah had her elementary education at the University of Ibadan Staff School and her secondary education at the International School, UI, Ibadan before proceeding to South Carolina University from where she moved to the University of Texas on scholarship.

What qualified her for this laurel?

Motivated by a burning desire to give a helping hand to fellow Nigerians in alleviating the crushing poverty and squalor in the land, Rahmah established a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) named ‘Youth for Intellectual Interaction Initiative (YIII) with more than 20 volunteers in Nigeria, United Kingdom and the US. It was this NGO that she used in applying for participation in the 2012 MDG project that fetched her the glorious laurel that now makes her a global star. And with that laurel she has automatically become a ‘Fellow of (UN) Resolution’. Already, she has been commissioned by UNICEF to develop and work on a concept to empower the vulnerable youths in Africa an assignment which she sees as a veritable opportunity to further propel the African youths into continental development through a deserving renaissance. Thus, she is a UNICEF global Ambassador.

Shortly before the announcement of the results of the competition, Rahmah called her father on phone to inform him of her nervousness having been overwhelmed by the galaxy of other contestants. But in response, her father, an experienced professor of education, told her to calm down saying: “I won’t be surprised if you win”. And when the event was over, she made the following confession: ‘So, when my name was announced, I became frightened and was shaking. Three winners emerged at the end of the day from three continents (Asia, Africa and South America) and these were a Nigerian, a Chinese and a Haitian. I was proudly thrilled to represent Nigeria at the Youth Assembly at the UN. For me, participating in that Social Challenge Venture was pretty exciting but it involved a lot of work.

I had to submit some drafts before presenting my project in front of over 700 delegates from the world and face the judges and the crowd. I was really, really nervous...”

Throwing light on the real nature of the competition, she said: “At the annual youth assembly, Resolution Project looks at youthful students in colleges, asks them to present a problem peculiar to their localities and suggest possible solutions to such a problem. If the proposal is accepted, the project then gives both mentoring and financial assistance to help them bring about the solution they proposed.” She continued: “I was supposed to pick a problem staring Nigerians in the face and propose a solution to it.

So the problem I chose was poverty which is the number one set goal of the Millennium Development Goals of the United Nations. I proposed empowerment through skills acquisition. This means that I will basically be empowering people in some vocations thereby making them self-sufficient and ultimately working towards the set goals of the UN. Thus, the solution I proposed was empowerment through skills acquisition.”

Narrating her planned approach to tackling poverty especially in Africa, Rahmah said: “The best approach to tackling poverty as far as I am concerned is to train people in some vocations, stressing that “what we will be doing is training people in some vocations such as baking, bead making, farming, tailoring and some couple of others but it’s going to be one vocation at a time. Now, after these people are trained, we will provide them with basic materials they need to start up and that way, they can start making money for themselves.”

Asked to state specifically what she will now be doing as a Fellow of (UN) Resolution and UNICEF Ambassador the 23 year old eloquent student of Biology said: “I presently volunteer with UNICEF USA to raise funds and create awareness for various projects. Recently, for instance, I led a number of fellow youths in the US to raise funds for the Children of Syria who are being subjected to all sorts of abuse and insecurity of life. We were trying to get more relief materials for them in their various refugee camps. And now, I am working on what is called Zero Project. It is estimated that about 19,000 children die daily of preventable causes and this figure comes from just five countries in the world. Sadly, Nigeria happens to be one of them. “At UNICEF, USA, we believe that number can be reduced to ZERO. For this reason we raise funds to be invested in the affected countries and we shall continue to do so until we get to ZERO level. As for her future plans this is what Rahmah has to say: I want to complete my undergraduate studies at the end of the current academic session and start post graduate studies. Also, I am planning to go ahead with my project in Nigeria if only as a fulfillment of my dream of bringing zero project to my country alongside my proposed solution at the United Nations. So I need every Nigerian to team up with me and my teammates in this initiative.”

When ‘THE MESSAGE’ asked Rahmah’s father to comment on his daughter’s performance he simply said “I am highly impressed Alhamdu Lillah”. Professor Aderinoye, a Professor of Education at the University of Ibadan who is currently the Deputy Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) however explained that he earlier entertained fear about the project because his daughter started it when her examination was approaching. But she assured him that she would cope.

Perhaps if Osun, the ‘State of Integrity’ had not been Rahmah’s indigenous state, nothing would have been heard about her great achievement from any government circle in Nigeria. It was the State of Osun alone that officially invited her for the establishment of a branch of her NGO in that state and provided an office for it. The state government, represented by the Commissioner for Youths and Women Affairs, Mrs. Folake Adegboyega and the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth and Women Empowerment, Mr. Abdullah Binuyo also sponsored the launching of the NGO. And such is quite in line with Osun State’s policy of youth empowerment.

Lesson to learn For parents who discriminate in the training of their children, this is a lesson. Rahmah is the fifth and last child of her parents. Only one of those children is a male. And all of them are doing as fantastically well in their respective callings as the only male child among them. What else does any sensible person want in a child? More than 90 per cent of Nigerian problems are currently caused by male children. And on the contrary, it is female children who take care of their parents better in old age. Besides, isn’t it ingratitude to Allah on the part of those who think parochially that male children are better than female children? That is a food for thought. We pray the Almighty Allah to prolong and protect the life of Rahmah Aderinoye with further guidance and blessings even as we implore Allah to give our Ummah many more of her type.

Amin.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

37

SOCIETY Academics, politicians and business tycoons gathered in Lagos to brainstorm on the state of the nation. AKEEM ALAWOKI and JUMOKE IDOWU were there.

T

HE gathering was for a few invited guests. They comprised academics, politicians and successful businessmen.

It was put together by Chief Tunde Temionu.

The idea was to discuss the state of the nation in a cheerful atmosphere.

Though the symposium was to discuss Nigeria; it was also an avenue for merry making.

The event took place on December 31, last year, at the Private Event Hall of TEM Hotel, Ojota.

Guests were served with choice foods and drinks immediately they got to their seats.

For some, it was a re-union of sort. Old time memories were recalled with laughter. They equally exchanged banters.

The hall glittered with various kinds of ceremonial lights as highlife music was played underground.

Chief Temionu, clad in a red shirt and a fitting black pair of trousers set the ball rolling.

He thanked the guests for honouring his invitation.

“By this time last year, he said, we talked about the fuel subsidy removal…we agreed that it should be deregulated. This edition is going to be another interactive get-togethere because we are discussing states’ creation,” he said.

He then introduced the quartet speakers.

Prof. Kolawole Adebayo from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, was the first to make presentations.

He gave a concise history on the birth of Nigeria and state creation within her territory. Afterward, he said, “No civilian administration has sat down to create a state.”

Adebayo brought to the fore opinions of some Nigerians who are against the creation of more states and those who support the move.

“Some of those who are against the creation of more states argue that the existing states are faced with many challenges which include: environmental, industrial and erosion cum agricultural challenges and augmenting the existing states to becoming bigger entities is the solution rather than splitting them further,” he said.

Nigeria on their minds •From left: Prof Adebayo; Dr Daramola; Chief Temionu; Prof Shofola and Prof Okoye

He said: “Those in favour of state creation opined that it will mean bringing the government closer to the people and that some of the existing states are too large and need to be split into smaller entities”.

Adebayo, however, advised that whichever path the government chooses to follow, they should ensure that the country returns to agriculture.

He said:”Agriculture offers the highest level of commerce any country can get. You will recall that when Nigeria used to be an agrarian country, Kano’s groundnut pyramid was feeding not just Nigeria but other countries.

Cocoa industry in the South-west did well to build a strong economy for the Western region. Oil palm dis same in the South-East,” he said.

Prof Adebayo advised the government to put in place a uniform agricultural policy for the development of the country.

Other discussants were Kwara State University senior don Prof. Innocent Okoye; University of Lagos Head of English Department,

Dr. Adeyemi Daramola; and former Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof.

Olushoga Shofola.

Prof Okoye thanked the organiser for giving them the opportunity of expressing their views on a national issue.

“I want to thank Chief Temionu for the opportunity to rub minds even as we enjoy ourselves.”

He said Nigerians believe in togetherness but some things must be corrected.

“Most Nigerians are still interested in living together, but they want some changes in the following areas: creation of more states, true federalism, resource control, good leadership; among others,” he said.

He said the ongoing constitutional review will not solve the problem rather a national conference should be convened.

According to him, the constituent state must be given the right to control their resources.

Dr Daramola thanked his fellow speakers for a thorough job and astute delivery.

Prof. Daramola maintained that more states should not be created.

“If we create more states, he said, people will keep clamouring for more states that every family will want to have its own state.”

Prof. Shofola acknowledged other speakers before making reference to the defunct USSR. The former Deputy Vice-Chancellor was very brief with his presentation. To him, creation of more will not solve the problem if the states are not autonomous.

“I believe there must be an resource control (by the state). We should see how to restructure the state to be independent federating unit where each unit has control over everything,” he said.

Former Lagos State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Prince Rotimi Abisoye said: “I do not want anymore state, what I want is good leadership, because if we have good leadership, we will have regular power supply; good roads. What we need to do is to weaken the centre. If we can’t weaken the centre, we can’t move forward.”

Walking down the aisle the second time A member of the traditional ruling council in Nteje, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State, Sir Gilbert Nwasike and his wife Lolo Philomena have celebrated 50 years of marriage by renewing their marital vows at Saint Anthony’s Catholic Church in Nteje. NWANOSIKE ONU witnessed the event.

A

FTER 50 years of marriage with seven children and 14 grand children, Sir Gilbert Obi and his delectable wife, Philomena have walked down the aisle the second time.

It was a carnival-like event with politicians, friends and wellwishers coming to celebrate with them.

The four bands played solemn music which kept the guests on their feet for hours.

Lolo Philomena turned heads in her flowing gown.

She was unique, elegant, full of energy, graceful and dazzling like a pearl on the dance floor.

The couple, 75 year old Pa Gilbert and 68 year old Philomena were radiating in their milk coloured suit and gown, their male children smartly dressed in gold coloured caftan while the daughters and daughters-in-law dressed in silky wrapper, coated with silver and gold beads, same colour with their head gears His holiness, Pope Benedict XVI of the Vatican City of Rome sent a powerfully worded letter in what he called his apostolic blessings to the couple.

It reads: “To the couple, who have been great inspiration to members of the Catholic

Church in Anambra and indeed Nigeria, invoking abundant divine graces on the occasion of their golden jubilee anniversary’’ The Pope’s message was signed by Felix Ed Blanco Pueto, Archi Episcopus, Eleemosynarius apostolicus “and delivered by Rev John Ogbo who officiated during the mass with Revd Nicholas Akwanya of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) and the parish priest, Rev Fr Jude Ikenze.

In his sermon, Rev Ogbo, praised the couple for their love, understanding and unique life style over the years which he said has made them the cynosure of all eyes.

According to him, “God has made you who you are, he has shown you the way, he opened your eyes and all He wants from you is to reciprocate by giving back to the less privileged, the needy and the downtrodden without looking back.”

“And by that, you will gladden the heart of your creator while more blessings will equally be showered on you, ‘’ he said.

Back home, the celebrators’ apartment in Agwa, Ifite village in Nteje, was ornately decorated in pink and orange coloured apparels.

Guests were thrilled by the songs of the late Osita Osadebe and the late Oliver De Coque.

•The couple Sir Nwasike and wife Philomena

The traditional ruler of Nteje kingdom, Igwe Rowland Odegbo led his cabinet chiefs to the event, including members of the state House of Assembly, led by Hon Rebecca Udorji (Awka North Constituency).

The celebrator, a successful businessman in Anambra, who acquired the traditional title of (Akum in Nteje), got married to Philomena (Onyeanaecheche) in 1962 and both belong to different associations in the church with knighthood titles to cap it.

However, the couple told The Nation that it takes a lot of prayers and endurance to attain such height in marriage.

According to Madam Philomena “young wives of nowadays should be submissive to their husbands and also, to always intercede for their families in prayers.”

The monarch of Nteje, Igwe Rowland Odegbo, told The Nation that it was a thing

of joy to see Akum and his wife to reach the golden age in their marital life and wished them more fruitful years ahead.

One of the celebrators’daughters, Okwuchukwu Anthonia, said it had been a long journey in the lives of their parents; prayed God to guide and protect her own marriage to get to the golden era.

One of the grandsons of the couple, and a law student at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Uzodinma Emeka praised the attitude of his grand parents, adding that their style was worthy of emulation.

All the other children of the couple spoke in the same vein.

The couple put on their dancing shoes to compete with their grandchildren on the dance floor, to the admiration of guests who could not endure but clap and give them a standing ovation in appreciation.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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CELEBRITY

•Senator Hussain and his wife Risikat •From left: Mrs Yusuf; Oba Otebolaku; Hon Yusuf and Olori Otebolaku

Honour for the ‘Honorable’ The Owalare of Ilare, Osun State, Oba Emmanuel Otebolaku, has conferred a chieftaincy title on a member of the House of Representatives, Hon Lasun Yusuf. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO writes.

H

UNDREDS of indigenes of Ilare town in Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State thronged the streets leading to the Owalare’s palace on December 28 last year.

They were joined by personalities from within and outside the state.

Gun shots by the palace guards enough to drove home the importance of the day. Local itinerant drummers, clad in uniform Ankara fabrics enlivened the ceremony. Of course, they made good money.

Many residents relished the joy of seeing traditional rulers from neighbouring towns converging on their rustic community.

The expansive palace of the Owalare of Ilare, Oba Emmanuel Otebolaku wore a new look. The compound reflected royalty in all sense. It was tastefully decorated. Colourful flowers adorned its entrance.

It was all for a water engineer, Hon Lasun Yusuf, a member of the House of Representatives, representing Osogbo/Olorunda/ Irepodun/Orolu Federal constituency.

Yusuf was installed as theAgba-Akin of Ilare, courtesy of Oba Otebolaku.

The lawmaker arrived at the palace iwithhis wife Rashidat and his hometown monarch, the Olobu of Ilobu, Oba Ashiru Olaniyan.

Some of his friends and colleagues from Abuja drove behind him to the venue.

The celebrator was decked in a flamboyant Aso Ofi, well sewn in Agbada, a wrist watch, cap made with Aso Ofi and matching pair of shoe.

For him and his fellow lawmakers at the occasion, "the ayes have it."

Guests and community dwellers watched keenly as the monarch decorated Yusuf with title leaves.

Yusuf's wife, Rashidat appeared stunning.

Her dressing caught the attention of many guests.

The light-skin Mrs Yusuf dazzled in an expensive lace buba, red Aso Ofi wrapper, Ipele, headgear, golden wrist watch, necklace, earrings, red hand bag and lovely pair of shoe.

As the monarch placed the leaf on Yusuf's head, he prayed for more posterity and success. The prayers received loud Amen.

Oba Otebolaku described him as a worthy son.

According to him, the title is in recognition of his contribution to humanity.

The celebrator's contribution to the state, the monarch said, is enormous.

He urged him not to rest on his oars.

Hon Yinka Ajayi representing Ifelodun/ Odo-Otin/Boripe at the lower chamber congratulated his fellow lawmaker.

"It is a thing of joy and a plus, he said, for communities outside our various constituencies can begin to appreciate our contribution to the development of the state."

Senator Mudashiru Hussain, a close ally of the celebrator, enjoined him to continue threading the part of honour.

Hussain prayed God give him enough wisdom to discharge his responsibilities as the new Agba Akin of Ilare.

•Hon Rotimi Makinde

•Hon Ojo

• Oba Abdul-Maruf Magbagbeola

•Hon Ajayi

The Olufon of Ifon-Osun, Oba Yusuf Omoloye who was Yusuf's former classmate, hailed the water engineer for imparting in the life of his people.

Oba Omoloye described him as a brilliant and articulate student while in school.

Yusuf thanked the monarch for honouring him.

He was full of appreciation to the guests for their presence.

He promised working for the betterment of the state and nation as a whole.

In attendance were the Olufon of Ifon-Osun, Oba Yusuf Omoloye; Elerin of Erin Oba Festus Awogboro; Hon Rotimi Makinde; Hon Babatunde Adewale; Hon Oyetunji Ojo; Osun State House of Assembly Deputy Speaker Hon Akintunde Adegboye; Akinrogun Sunday Akere; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Kolapo Alimi among others.

WHAT AND WHERE Launching

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HE end of the Year party and thanksgiving service of the Prestigious Eko Club will hold on Sunday at the Blessings Hall of the club’s House, Surulere, Lagos.

The event as announced by the club’s President , Mr Owolabi Lawal will be chaired by the Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture, Alhaji Oyinlomo Danmole. Lagos State Chief of Staff, Alhaji Olanrewaju Babalola and Otunba Alaba Oniru are expected as special guests on the occasion.

Birthday •Oba Oyefusi

Anniversary

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HELTER Grace Foundation, a nongovernmental organisation will be officially launched today at the Ikorodu Town Hall, Ikorodu, Lagos.

The Lagos State Governor, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola is the Chief Launcher and Grand Patron of the foundation.

The Ayangburen of Lagos, Oba S.A.A Oyefusi is the royal Father of the day while his Olori, Olori Muyibat Oyefusi is the Royal Mother of the day. The hostess is Princess Folashade Oba.

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HE 50th birthday and thanksgiving service of the President of Christ Miracle Church Mission, Prophet Peter Abiola Adebisi will take place today at 2, Iyasuna Crescent, Ojodu, Ikeja, Lagos.

Obsequies

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HE remains of Madam Esther Olufunke Somefun will be interred today at the Saviour’s African Church Cathedral, Agege, Lagos.

Entertainment of guests follows immediately after the interment at the LASU Museum, Agege, Lagos.

Jubilee

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N Sunday, the maiden edition of the repackaged anointing service of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Jubilee Model Parish will hold at the Zonal Headquarters Parish, Ibafo.

Pastor Stephen Omotoye will lead other anointed men of God to conduct the service which has Anointing for Sweatless Efforts in 2013 as its theme while Zonal Pastor M.O. Obisesan will coordinate the service.

Funeral

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HE funeral service for the late Hector Johnson will hold today at the first African Church Mission Jehovah Shalom Cathedral, Lagos. Interment holds at the Ikoyi Cemetery immediately after church service.

Guests will be hosted to a reception at the Ajao Estate Primary School on Fatai Irawo Street, Isolo, Lagos.

T

Ceremony

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HE 8th annual Zakat Distribution Ceremony (ZDC) organised by Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation (ZSF) will hold on Sunday at the Syrian Mosque, Ikoyi, Lagos.

It will climax the foundation’s weeks of distributing Zakat proceeds which had earlier held in Osun and Ogun states.

Expected at the event are Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola; Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly Hon Adeyemi Ikuforiji; Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture Alhaji Oyinlomo Danmole; former Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Jubril Ayinla while ZSF Executive Director Alhaji Shuaib Abdullahi is the chief host.

Meeting

HE Old Boys Association of Government College, Ughelli, Delta State will hold its annual general meeting and reunion tomorrow at the school’s premises.

According to the President of the association, Chief Joseph J Akpieyi, a pre AGM NEC meeting will hold today at the Ishaka Hotel, Warri, Delta State.

•Admiral Ayinla

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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SOCIETY COMMUNICATE YOUR IDEAS

Setting your Communication Agenda for Year 2013 (2)

N •Alhaji Pedro (SAN) and his wife Aminat

The end-of-year party of the 1977/78 set of Anwar-Ul Islam College, Agege Old Students Association (ACAOSA) has been held in Lagos.

AMIDU ARIJE and KEMI OKUNADE were there.

From boys to men

•Wasiu Bawalah (left) and Rahman Alarape

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T was as if they were still in school. Although they left Anwar-UL Islam College, Agege, Lagos, over 35 years ago, they have not forgotten some of the pranks they played in those days.

On sighting each other, nicknames rang out and they burst into laughter, as they remembered what it used to be like while in school. It was full of fun and reminiscences.

Their wives watched as the ‘boys’ ran rings round themselves. The looks on the women’s faces said it all: don’t they know that they are no longer boys. The ‘boys’ ignored their wives’ looks as they were in a world of their own last Saturday at the end-of-year party of the 1977/78 set of Anwar-UL Islam College, Agege Old Students Association (ACAOSA).

There was no dress code, so they turned out in different attires. But they found uniformity in the school cap of gold and navy blue.

Before the event started, guests were served small chops and drinks.

The compere, Jide Morounfolu, thrilled the old boys with jokes. The event took off with the recitation of the National Anthem.

It was followed by opening prayer

by Alhaji Shakiru Yussuf.

Dr Afolabi Abiodun took his colleagues down memory lane. He also conducted the American auction.

The association’s president, Alhaji Lawal Pedro (SAN), Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, led members to recite the school anthem.

Peddy as he is fondly called thanked God for keeping the members alive.

He praised members for keeping the association moving.

According to him, the essence of the old boys association is to give back to the school which groomed the members.

“Our gathering is to ensure we do not forget our alma mater, that is the school which has done so much for all of us. When we were growing up, we went through the school, we cut our tooth there, we were trained to be able to stand on our feet,” he said.

Peddy lamented the deteriorating

•From left: Hammed Rasaq; Yomi Ojo and Dipo Oyetayo

•From left: Ahmed Ogunnaike; Tunde Adeniji; Taofeek Colley; Kabiru Oganla and Ademola Akintoye PHOTOS: DAYO ADEWUNMI

state of the school, urging members to do work awards the restoration of its glory.

“The college that you and I attended between 1973/74 and 1977/ 78 is not the same again. My brothers, our school is facing hard times and it needs us now more than ever before in order to restore its glory.

Our coming together will amount to nothing if it cannot be of benefit to our school,” he said.

“The school has given us what it has, good education and sound upbringing. It is time for us to give back

to the school so that the dream of the founding fathers will not die,” he added.

His speech attracted a rousing applause and all stood until he returned to his seat.

In attendance were: Rahman Alarape, Alhaja Aminat Pedro, Wasiu Bawalah, Hammed Rasaq, Mufutau Ottun, Yomi Ojo, Gbenga Ojo, Suraj Olowo, Bolanle Ahmed, Tunde Adeniji, Ahmed Ogunnaike, Hakeem Ogunniran, Nurudeen Bello, Bashir Shittu, Taofeek Colley and Dipo Oyetayo, among others.

EW Year is always a time most people anticipate.

People, irrespective of tribe, gender, religion or location, look forward to the New Year.

Whether voiced or not, there AMODU LANRE OLAOLU (Ph.D) seems to be new hopes attached sospeak2lanre@yahoo.com. to the New Year because of the 07034737394 perceived fresh start. We try to erase our past mistakes and focus on new aspirations. Even though we cannot wipe our memories clean of past experiences, we at least try to use the landmark of the New Year as a wall to block us off from what we consider to be our failures of the past year. However, the importance of the New Year has been so overrated that some people find it difficult to make any considerable change in their lives anytime during the year.

Just a few days ago, we were all full of cheers and the only greeting around was "Happy New Year!" We greeted those we knew and those we didn't really know. At least we all had something in common; we entered the New Year by the grace of God. It all seemed like a really big deal! (Actually it is) But then, in the last couple of days, have you heard anyone greet another "Happy New Year?" If you did, I'm sure you would have been wondering where the fellow was all these days.

Check the calendar please; we are racing towards the middle of January 2013! If you were one of those who had great plans for 2013, well, here we are! Sometime ago it seemed like a long time, but here we are. "Next year" has become "this year," "tomorrow" has become "today!" Whatever you don't do now, you may never get to do. People expect so much from the New Year as though it has a magic on its own to change their lives! If you are still waiting for something to happen, then 2014 may be your turn. But God forbid! Now is your time; but stop waiting and start doing.

Please understand this, you cannot continue to communicate the way you communicated last year and expect anything different to happen. How can you keep doing the same thing and expect a different result? If you really want to make it as a public speaker this year, or you simply want to communicate your feelings or ideas better, you must prepare to do something different.

Last week, we discussed about setting a communication agenda for yourself. It is very important that you do. No matter how good you are now, you can always be better. Do you know that in any field in which you are, you need people? Of course you do need people! If you are a doctor for instance, guess who your patients will be? Even if you are a veterinary doctor, the animals won't just walk into your office, will they? Every business requires communication with people. The more you get along with them, the more they patronize you. Therefore, make it a major objective to communicate better this year.

I learnt that the field of marketing is currently branching from merely marketing products and services to marketing relationships.

This is particularly instructive. The idea behind the migration is that when you sell a product, it may be a once-and-for-all transaction, but if you market relationship, there is likely to be a repeat purchase of the product. Look at it this way, there are sometimes when people wonder into someone's shop without having the intention of buying anything. Or on the other hand, they may not have found the exact product they are looking for. If you are the shop owner, you can react to them in different ways and each one is communication based: 1.

You can get irritated because they aren't buying anything and they are wasting your time. If you do, they will notice that you are not friendly and they may never return.

2.

You can pressurize them into buying something else that, according to you, is "the same" as what they are looking for. If you do and they are not satisfied, they will feel cheated. They will also conclude that you are the type of person who cares more about sales than the needs of you customers.

3.

You can be really nice to them, show them around like they are the most important persons around and give them maximum attention. If they don't find what they are looking for, you can suggest where they can get it or simply ask them to come back for it if it is convenient for them.

If you are a customer, which will you prefer? The third example will develop such a good relationship that the customers will feel sorry that they didn't buy from the shop. You can be sure that they will return next time. My point is this; it is more about the communication than it is about the business. If you want to change the way people react to you this year, change the way you communicate with them. If you learn to respect people in your communication with them, you will be surprised how much respect you will get in return. I'm hoping that you will take up this challenge in your life and change something in the way you communicate with people. If you do, then you will have a different result from what you had last year.

Dr. Amodu lectures at the Department of Mass Communication, Covenant University, Ota, Ogun State.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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SOCIETY The expansive Olatinwo Family House in Offa, Kwara State was agog for the Aqdun Nikah between Khadijat, daughter of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Rector, Dr. Mufutau Olatinwo and her beau Mohammed Adebowale, an Air Force officer. YETUNDE BASHIRU and JUMOKE IDOWU report.

Rector’s daughter finds love

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OR the Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State, it was honour all the way. Academics, politicians and Armed Forces personel were present in large number for his daugther’s wedding. The armed forces were there to honour the groom, Mohammed Adebowale, an officer of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

The event began on Friday with a special prayer held for the couple at the expansive Olatinwo Family House, Offa.

The following day witnessed the Aqdun Nikah at the same venue.

The Chief Imam, of Offa Town, Imam Muideen Salman Al-Imam led a retinue of clerics to the event. The Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi came with a large number of other traditional rulers and chiefs to the occasion.

The couple dazzled in attractive attires.

Khadijat looked resplendent in a flowing white gown, beautiful laali (a common form of body-beautifier in Hausaland), wrist watch and chain dangled on her hands. She capped them with lovely earrings and held a bouqet.

The groom was decked in a ceremonial uniform of the Air Force.

After opening prayer and recitation from the Holy Quran, Imam Salman took over the proceeding.

Marriage, the cleric said, is ordained

by Allah.

He enjoined wives to be obedient to their husbands so as to secure the favour of the Almighty.

The couple, he said, must respect each other and always pray together.

After observing the necessary rites of marriage, Imam Salam declared them husband and wife.

This was greeted with a loud Allahu Akbar (God is the greatest) and Allihamdullilahi (Praise be to Allah).

Guests later joined the Olatinwos and the Adebowales at the Nigerian Navy School of Health Sciences, Offa for a reception.

A military Guard of Honour was staged by the groom’s colleagues and junior officers with full military compliments as the couple walked in.

The hall reflected class.

Former Military Administrator of

•The couple Mohammed carrying his wife Khadijat. With them are bestmen and bride’s maids

•Bride’s father Dr Olatinwo and groom’s mother Mrs Amolegbe

Osun State Col. Leo Ajiborisha who chaired the reception, urged the couple to guide their home jealously and always discourage external interference in their affairs.

Col Ajiborisha praised their parents for raising them well.

He wished the couple success in their endeavours.

The couple expressed delight ending their relationship with marriage.

Khadijat, a first class graduate of Agriculture at the University of Ilorin was full of joy.

She smiled all through the event.

On her husband, Khadijat said that she loved him for his strength of character and discipline.

“He is handsome, caring and loving. I could not wish for a better man. I’m happy he is mine,” she said.

She thanked her parents and in-

• Groom’s father Brigadier General Amolegbe and bride’s mother Hajia Muslimat Olatinwo

•Imam Salman

•Oba Olanipekun

laws for making the occasion grand.

The groom, Muhammed, also thanked their parents, friends and

relations, promising that he and his wife will not disappoint them.

She described Khadijat as a bril-

THANKSGIVING

•Former Delta State Commissioner for Information Hon Oma Djebah and his wife, Harmony exchanging greetings with the former President of Urhobo Social Club, Lagos, Chief Johnson Barovbe (right) in Lagos

liant, beautiful and humble woman.

The train later moved to the groom father’s house in Ede, Osun State in the evening where the King of Fuji Music, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde Marshall (KWAM 1) thrilled the couple and guests.

The event was attended by military top brass from various military establishments, members of the Polytechnic Expanded Management Committee (EMC) including the representative of the Minister of Education on the committee, Mrs Uwem Asomugha and her NBTE counterpart, Alhaji Baba Idi Bamamu.

Principal Officers, members of the executive committee of the various unions in the institution, Deans from different institutions, Directors, Heads of Departments/Unit and the Students’ Union executive were not left out.

UNION OF LOVEBIRDS

•Former Miss Ruth Awe and Mr Samuel Adewunmi Olubayo, after their wedding at Otapiapia house, checkpoint, Badagry, Lagos

“But even if I don't win it, I'll still be part of the team because I have helped to build it over the last 10 years. If not me, or Yaya, then perhaps (Abdul) Razak (of Manchester City), who is the youngest member of the squad” 42

Elephants of Ivory Coast captain, Didier Drogba urging his teammates to do their best at the forth coming 2013 AFCON

Friday, January 18, 2013

AGUERO returns from injury •Pique(l) and his wife Shakira

Pique, Shakira expecting a child

•Aguero

Guardiola: I missed football AFCON COUNTDOWN..AFCON COUNTDOWN...AFCON COUNTDOWN....

Mali’s goal hopes on Diabaté’s shoulders

DROGBA warns teammates

Ghana land in Port Elizabeth

•Drogba

Khumalo says it will be an honour

•Diabaté

•Gyan

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EQUITIES NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 17-1-13

Onyema hinges N150tr growth forecast on positive policies

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HE $1 trillion (N150 trillion) equities growth forecast of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) will be a mirage except the Federal Government put major policies in place to drive the growth of the capital market.

This was the conclusion of the Chief Executive Officer of the Exchange yesterday at the World Press Conference in Lagos. The confab was to review activities in the securities market in 2012 and also chart the way forward for 2013.

Onyema said the exchange’s quest to increase market capitalisation to N150 trillion by 2016 will not be achieved, if the Federal Government fails to facilitate the passage of the Petroleum Industries Bill (PIB) and encourage other strategic companies especially the telecom industry to list on the Exchange.

The NSE boss, who was displeased with the present contribution of the market capitalisation to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), explained that the concerted efforts and support of the government is paramount to unbundle various sectors of the economy in order to attract the needed investment in the Nigerian Capital Market. The Capital Market cap is 17 per cent of GDP. Reviewing the 2012 market performance, vis-a-vis 2013 outlook, he said: “the market capitalisation of the NSE is one of the lowest in Africa in terms of GDP. When we gave the target, we say the number of things needed to be aligned. Govern-

•NSE adds three market making stocks

By Tonia Osundolire

ment said they want to privatise power. We need the support of the government to ensure that the 16 utilities are listed with the telecom companies.

“The National Assembly should approve and pass the PIB to provide unbundling of companies and enable the oil majors to take positive decision. The Oil and gas sector is slowing down because everybody is watching to see what is happening,” he said.

The NSE boss however, expressed optimism that the measures put in place to deepen the market would attract new issues into the market in the current year, despite the challenges around liquidity and depth, adding that concerted efforts to drive improvements in market participant remains the Exchange’s major focus. “ The CBN’s efforts to achieve single-digit interest rate, as investor confidence measures implemented by the NSE mature, we expect that a growth trend similar to that experienced in Q4 2012 will extend into 2013".

On the fixed income, Oscar said that the relative attractiveness of FGN bonds would continue for local and global investors, as a result of record-high yields.

“With the upcoming inclusion of Nigerian FGN bonds in the Barclay’s Emerging Market Local Currency Bond Index, this should keep the nation’s bonds in the international spotlight.

Furthermore, foreign issuers such as the International Finance

Corporation (IFC) are expected to enter the Nigerian bond market this year.

“Other contributing factors to optimism about the capital market include early passage of the national budget, which creates an impression that fiscal policy is being prioritized, the pronouncement to begin investing proceeds of the Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) in March 2013, elimination of VAT and stamp duties, which should take effect in 2013, freeing up funds for capital market investment; and continued product innovation by the Exchange, such as the commencement of secondary bond market trading, and the introduction of new indices and ETFs.” Meanwhile, the Exchange included three additional stocks to Market Making (MM) basket yesterday. They are Oando Plc, Transcorp Plc, and Dangote Cements Plc. The total MM stocks have now risen to 39.

However, at the end of yesterday’s transactions, equities market retained bullish momentum as investors sustained interests in the market in readiness for the Q4 earnings season. This impacted strongly on lead indicator NSE-ASI, which gained additional 77 basis points to sustain growth at 182-week high.

In summary, the market gained 231.03 absolute points, representing 0.77 per cent appreciation, to close higher at 30,324.86 points. Similarly, Market Capitalisation gained N74 billion, also representing 0.77 per cent growth, to close higher at N9.699 trillion.

The price movement tables retained positive outlook as advanced stocks logged 35 against 22 bearish ones (decliners). On every decliner, advanced stocks appreciated at the rate of 1.59.

NIGERIAN STOCK EXCHANGE DAILY SUMMARY AS AT 17-1-13

55

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

MONEY LINK

CBN: five banks control 53% deposits

F

IVE out of the 21 banks operating in the country control 53.14 and 51.64 per cent deposits and assets within the sector, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Financial Stability Report for June 2012 has said.

The report released yesterday showed that the figure was an improvement from 52.06 and 53.01 per cent deposits and assets respectively recorded at the end of second half, 2011.

The report endorsed by CBN Deputy Governor, Financial System Stability, Dr Kingsley Moghalu said, the market share of the largest bank with respect to assets and deposits, stood at 14.05 and 15.60 per cent respectively. This he said, is also an improvement when compared with 13.84 and 15.15 per cent respectively recorded a year ago.

“The average market share of assets and deposits of five largest banks stood

•Smaller banks less vulnerable to liquidity risks Stories by Collins Nweze

at 51.64 and 53.14 per cent respectively compared with 53.01 and 52.06 per cent at the end of second half, 2011.

The market share of the largest bank with respect to assets and deposits, stood at 14.05 and 15.60 per cent respectively. This compared with 13.84 and 15.15 per cent in 2011,” the report said.

The report said reforms in the sector will address liquidity and exchange rate volatility concerns in the near to medium term. It said that liquidity risks was adjudged significant as the impact of 10 per cent general run on the banking industry’s liquidity resulted in 815 basis points reduction in liquidity ratio. The results, it added, further showed that small and medium banks were less vulnerable to liquidity risks than the big ones.

It said a stress test conducted at the end of June 2012 evaluated the solvency risks in the banking industry balance sheets and imbalance in the financial system. The result of the exercise reaffirmed the increasing resilence of the industry to shocks.

According to the report, comparatively, the results showed slight improvements over the December 2011 position in the areas of

credit, foreign exchange and interest rate risks, while liquidity risks increased marginally.

On liquidity risk, the report said all the 21 banks met the 30 per cent regulatory liquidity ratio requirement. However, the frequent recourse to CBN’s Standing Lending Facility (SLF) by some banks suggested an underlying liquidity challenge.

In his response to the re-

C

According to the firm, based on Gross Domestic Product (GDP) target of 6.7 per cent, the Nigeria market should benefit from accelerating top-down trends. It tipped United Bank for Africa, Access Bank, Zenith Bank and Skye Bank as lenders that could achieve a double-digit Earnings Per Share growth across the board.

HE Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) has recovered 10 landed properties, a vessel and other assets from Tanzila Petroleum Company Limited and its Managing Director, Alhaji Shehu Badamasi.

In a statement, AMCON,

said the recovery followed a court order OF 19th October 2012, by Hon. Justice Idris of the Federal High Court and executed on 16th January,

It also said West to East African banks are also viable performers within the year, with the Kenyan elections a potential headwind. RenCap said Equity Bank remains its pick of the bunch on a relative basis.

“Within the liquid space, this could be Russian banks’ year. Although we are more conservative with our outlook for the sector at the start

of 2013 then we were throughout 2012, market appetite has begun to rise for risk assets,” it said.

For South Africa, it said that with GDP growth near three per cent, credit growth slowing to high single digits and margins expected to be stable on flat interest rates, big-four South African banks could deliver 10 to 15 per cent EPS growth in 2013.

FGN BONDS Amount N

Rate %

M/Date

3-Year 5-Year 5-Year

35m 35m 35m

11.039 12.23 13.19

19-05-2014 18-05-2016 19-05-2016

Amount Amount Offered ($) Demanded ($) 350m 150m 350m 138m 350m 113m

Price Loss 2754.67 447.80

INTERBANK RATES 7.9-10% 10-11%

PRIMARY MARKET AUCTION (T-BILLS) Tenor 91-Day 182-Day 1-Year

Amount 30m 46.7m 50m

Rate % 10.96 9.62 12.34

Date 28-04-2012 “ 14-04-2012

GAINERS AS AT 17-1-13

SYMBOL

O/PRICE

C/PRICE

CHANGE

JBERGER ACADEMY MOBIL ETERNA FO CCNN BERGER HONYFLOUR RTBRISCOE CONTINSURE

35.20 2.11 109.25 3.01 10.32 7.29 9.42 2.30 1.70 0.85

38.72 2.32 114.71 3.16 10.83 7.65 9.88 2.41 1.78 0.89

3.52 0.21 5.46 0.15 0.51 0.36 0.46 0.11 0.08 0.04

UBA DIAMONDBNK WAPIC JOHNHOLT AFRIPRUD OKOMUOIL MORISON FIDSON SKYEBANK ABCTRANS

O/PRICE 6.60 6.80 0.80 2.52 1.68 51.45 2.99 1.29 5.90 0.54

C/PRICE 6.15 6.40 0.76 2.40 1.60 49.02 2.85 1.23 5.64 0.52

NGN USD NGN GBP NGN EUR NIGERIA INTER BANK (S/N) (S/N) Bureau de Change (S/N) Parallel Market

Current Before

Exchange Rate (N) 155.2 155.8 155.7

C u r r e n t CUV Start After %

147.6000 239.4810 212.4997

149.7100 244.0123 207.9023

150.7100 245.6422 209.2910

-2.11 -2.57 -1.51

149.7450

154.0000

154.3000

-3.04

152.0000

153.0000

155.5000

-2.30

153.0000

154.0000

156.0000

-1.96

DISCOUNT WINDOW Feb. ’11

July ’11

July ’12

MPR

6.50%

6.50%

12%

Standing Lending Rate ,, Deposit Rate ,, Liquidity Ratio Cash Return Rate Inflation Rate

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 1.00% 12.10%

8.50% 4.50% 25.00% 2.00% 12.10%

9.50% 5.50% 30.00% 2.00% 11.8%

Date 2-7-12 27-6-12 22-6-12

7 Days 30 Days 60 Days 150 Days

27-10-11 N6.5236tr 20,607.37

28-10-11 N6.617tr 20,903.16

Rate (Previous) 4 Mar, 2012 9.0417 9.6667 11.2917 12.1250

% Change -1.44% -1.44%

MEMORANDUM QUOTATIONS

ARM AGGRESSIVE GROWTH KAKAWA GUARANTEED STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND LOTUS CAPITAL HALAL BGL SAPPHIRE FUND BGL NUBIAN FUND FBN MONEY MARKET FUND FBN FIXED INCOME FUND NIGERIA INTERNATIONAL DEB. PARAMOUNT EQUITY FUND CONTINENTAL UNIT TRUST CENTRE-POINT UNIT TRUST STANBIC IBTC NIG EQUITY • ARM AGGRESSIVE

Offer Price

Bid Price

9.17 1.00 137.48 133.59 0.80 1.14 0.95 100.00 1,000.00 1,777.37 11.31 1.39 1.87 10,090.53

9.08 1.00 137.09 133.51 0.78 1.14 0.95 100.00 1,000.00 1,776.74 10.75 1.33 1.80 9,810.24

• KAKAWA GUARANTEED • STANBIC IBTC GUARANTE • AFRINVEST W.A. EQUITY FUND

NIBOR Tenor

NSE CAP Index

Name

CHANGE 0.45 0.40 0.04 0.12 0.08 2.43 0.14 0.06 0.26 0.02

Amount Sold ($) 150m 138m 113m

CAPITAL MARKET INDEX Year Start Offer

LOSERS AS AT 17-1-13

SYMBOL

was acquired by AMCON under its mandate to clean up non-performing loans from the Nigerian financial system,” it said.

The Corporation was established in 2010 to buy nonperforming loans and assets of banks in order to avoid systemic financial failure.

So far, AMCON has purchased about N4.5 trillion worth of non-performing assets and loans from the banks covering about 13,000 debtors in order to stabilise the Nigeria banking system.

Also, the corporation had restructured and recovered about N1.5 trillion as at December, 2012 and now targets the recovery of about N2 trillion in 2013.

EXHANGE RATE 6-03-12 Currency

OBB Rate Call Rate

2013.

It explained that counsel to AMCON, Olisa Agbakoba & Associates, secured the court order to take over the movable and immovable properties, as well as freeze bank accounts of the debtors, pursuant to provisions of the AMCON Act 2010. Tanzila Petroleum Company Limited and its Managing Director reportedly have an outstanding of about N27 billion in AMCON’s books.

“The Act empowers AMCON to undertake recovery measures against debtors who have refused to pay up their debts that have become non-performing and inimical to the financial system.

The non-performing loan

WHOLESALE DUTCH AUCTION SYSTEM

MANAGED FUNDS

NIDF NESF

tem is able, at all times, to respond promptly and appropriately, to challenges as they emerge.

DATA BANK

Tenor

Initial Current Quotation Price Market N8250.00 5495.33 N1000.00 N552.20

• CBN Governor Sanusi Lamido

AMCON recovers Tanzila Petroleum’s properties over N27b debt T

RenCap predicts 20% rise in banks’ credit REDIT by Nigerian banks is expected to rise by 20 per cent this year, Renaissance Capital (RenCap), an investment and research firm has said.

In an emailed report obtained by The Nation, RenCap said that Nigerian banks excite it most within the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) banks context in 2013.

port, CBN Governor, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi said the Financial Stability Report continues to provide insights on developments in the Nigerian financial system and their implications for financial system stability.

He said the apex bank remains resolute in the pursuit of its price and monetary stability mandate. The CBN boss said the banking watchdog is also determined to ensure that the banking sys-

Rate (Currency) 6, Mar, 2012 10.17% 11.46% 11.96% 12.54%

Movement

OPEN BUY BACK

Bank P/Court

Previous 04 July, 2012

Current 07, Aug, 2012

8.5000 8.0833

8.5000 8.0833

Movement

56

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

57

NEWS

•From left: Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda (second left); former Kano State Governor Ibrahim Shekarau (middle); former Borno State Governor Ali Modu Sheriff (second right); Borno State Governor Kashim Shettima (right) and Bauchi State Deputy Governor Sagir Saleh, during the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) Northeast chapter’s visit to Yuguda in Bauchi...yesterday.

Two killed as gunmen attack JTF checkpoint in Kano T WO gunmen, believed to be members of the Boko Haram sect were yesterday shot dead by the Joint Task Force (JTF) in Kano and five others were arrested during a shoot-out between the sect and the JTF. Two passersby –a man and a woman - were said to have been hit by stray bullets in the crossfire.

The incident reportedly occurred at the JTF checkpoint on the Wudil–Maiduguri Road, Mariri Quarters, about 5.30pm, during a stop-and-search operation.

•Five arrested

From Kolade Adeyemi, Kano

It was gathered that the gunmen launched a bloody attack on members of the JTF but were swiftly repelled.

Residents said the sect members disguised when they attacked the security operatives in a vehicle, while some other sect members were said to be on a motorcycle.

Acting on a tip-off, the security operatives reportedly launched an aggressive operation against the sect members.

As the gunmen attempted to attack the JTF team, the security personnel were said to have opened fire on them, resulting in the death of two of the gunmen.

The other five members were reportedly arrested after the operation.

JTF spokesman Captain Ikedichi Iweha said: “Our men repelled an attack by this terrorist group, who stormed the JTF Mariri checkpoints.

“During a gun dwell, our men gunned down two, while five other members of the group were arrested.”

Iweha said none of the security operatives sustained any injury in the shoot-out.

Arms allegedly recoverd form the suspects include an AK47 rifle.

Why we stoppedAbuja transport policy, by minister

T

HE Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Senator Bala Muhammed, yesterday said poor implementation of the new transport policy and some other lapses by the FCT Administration led to stopping the policy.

Mohammed admitted several lapses in the policy and promised to correct them.

Addressing reporters in Abuja, following the suspension of the ban on mini-buses within the city centre, the minister said the FCTA had bought about 700 high capacity buses

From Bukola Amusan, Abuja

to serve the affected areas of the territory.

The suspension, he said, would only last for three weeks after which full implementation of the new policy will begin.

He spoke after a meeting with officials of the mini-buses’ union, FCT chapters of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) , besides the FCT Police Commissioner as well as the Director, Department of State Security.

Muhammed directed that a committee to be chaired by the FCT Permanent Secretary, Anthony Ozodinobi, bne set up to fine-tune its implementation.

The stakeholders, including the FCT Chapters of the NLC/ TUC, the police, Vehicles Inspection Officers (VIO), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and member of a civil society organisation, are represented on the implementation committee.

Muhammed insisted that there is no going back on the implementation of the policy

because it is for the good of all residents of the FCT. He announced that another transportation-related policy, including but not limited to car mart, car wash and illegal motor parks in and around the FCT, which have been banned, will also be enforced.

The minister added that the FCT Park-and-Pay policy faced similar challenges.

He said the enforcement of such measures are the only solution to sanitising transportrelated problems in the Federal Capital Territory.

Y

From Duku Joel, Damaturu

on people-oriented projects.

He said: “You are to always execute development projects geared towards uplifting the living standards of your people.

“The council is expected to give attention to activities on Fadama farms, provision of water pumps, seedlings and animal extraction as well as the purchase of tricycles and sewing machines for distribution to the people at subsidised rates. These activities and measures are to create more jobs,

poverty alleviation and empowering youths towards selfreliance.”

The governor added that their tenure is for five or six months, as elections by the Yobe State Independent Electoral Commission (YOSIEC) into the 17 councils will hold in May/June.

Gaidam hoped there would be improved security across the state.

He said: “This state had been under siege by the Islamists group between November, 2011 and November, 2012 where people were prevented from their business and school

T

motorcade.

But Mallam Mansur Lawal, spokesman of the governor, described that alleged accident as the figment of imagination of the writer.

He said the convoy was never involved in any accident during the tour.

Lawal said: “It is sad that a report was published without any attempt to verify the truth.

I was on that trip to Shongom Local Government and I can

I

NTER-FAITH scholars have called for the development of a religious harmony that will end the Boko Haram insurgency and other insecurity challenges confronting Nigeria.

The founder of Shafaudeen in Islam, Prof. Sabitu Olagoke, and the Patriarch of Aladura Worldwide, Bishop Olapade Agoro, said understanding and respecting various faith is crucial to sustainable peace, particularly where some people misuse religion for violence.

The duo spoke at the 30th annual inter-faith symposium of Shafaudeen in Islam, entitled: Nigerian Democracy and Security as Crucial Challenges to Sustainable Development.

On why Nigeria lacks peaceful co-existence, good governance and goodwill, Prof. Olagoke said: “It is because humankind is bereft of the in-depth knowledge of religions; hence he fails in applying it to solving intractable perennial problems confronting him at local, national and global levels.”

Al-Makura regrets communal clashes

N

ASARAWA State Governor Umaru Tanko AlMakura has expressed regret over the recent communal and militia crises which led to the death and displacement of several residents.

“My heart goes out to mostly women and children, who are the worst hit. Some of you lost your husbands, some children and others abandoned their businesses to run for their dear lives. I sympathise with you all and ask God Almighty to comfort you and bear the loss and the pains of this ugly situation,” the governor said.

Al-Makura spoke yesterday

From Johnny Danjuma, Lafia

when he visited the camp of the displaced persons at the ERCC Nursery and Primary School, Bukan Sidi and Dunama Primary School, Lafia, the state cpital.

The governor promised to support and protect the victims.

PUBLIC NOTICE EZEMAH I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Ezemah Roseline Nkechinyere now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs Ngadiuba Roseline Nkechinyere. All former documents remain valid. General public should please take note.

Notice is hereby given to the Lagos State Lands Registry, the Lagos State Development and Property Corporation and the general public of the loss of the original indenture (residential lease) between the Lagos State Development and Property Corporation and Alhaji Mosiudi Alani Olaiya Yusuf with respect to the property at Plot 116, Block V, Gbagada Resiential Scheme, Phase II (9A & 9B, Jogunomi Street, Gbagada phase II) registered as Number 48, at Page 48 in Volume 1739 with the Lagos State Lands Registry.

The General public should take note.

SIGNED ALHAJI MOSIUDI ALANI OLAIYA YUSUF •Gaidam

activities and even prayers by the Muslim communities that constitute 95 per cent of the population of the state.”

‘Dankwambo’s convoy not involved in crash’ HE Gombe State Government has denied that the convoy of Governor Ibrahim Dankwambo was involved in a fatal accident on Wednesday.

A newspaper (not The Nation) reported that the accident happened when the governor’s convoy was returning from a tour of Shongom Local Government Area, leading to the death of an unnamed passenger in a vehicle that was not part of the

From Tayo Johnson, Ibadan

NOTICE OF LOSS OF DOCUMENT

Gaidam warns council chairmen against graft OBE State Governor Ibrahim Gaidam yesterday warned local government caretaker committee chairmen to shun corruption and other “acts or behaviours” that could affect the discharge of their duties.

The governor advised them to monitor and supervise water supply, health and education projects in their councils.

Gaidam spoke in Damaturu, the state capital, when he swore in 17 caretaker committee chairmen at the Government House.

The governor noted that the appointments of some of the chairmen were based on their previous performances, rankings, good character and hard work.

“To further demonstrate government’s commitment to ensure transparency in the conduct of government business, we will monitor very closely the way you run the affairs of the councils.

“Anyone found wanting in the discharge of his or her duties will be shown the way out and handed over to law enforcement agents for appropriate action,” Gaidam warned.

The governor urged the local government chairmen to focus

Scholars call for end to Boko Haram attacks

categorically tell you that the convoy was never involved in any accident let alone of a fatal one that would lead to the death of any person. I would have thought that the reporter would have done a thorough job by getting in touch with us instead of writing what I consider to be a false and malicious story.

“It is a figment of the imagination of the writer and we have lodged complaint at the appropriate quarters.”

PUBLIC NOTICE CHRIST FOR RURAL OUTREACH MINISTRY This is to inform the general public that the above named has applied to the Corprate Affairs Commission, Abuja for registration under the part "C" of the companies and Allied matter Act, 1990 AIMS 1. To carry out gospel outreach in the rural areas.

2. To help bring members nearer to God through the scripture.

3. To conduct an intensive bible study and teachings of Christ Jesus.

NAME OF TRUSTEE: 1. CHRISTIAN ANDEMA. 2. MOSES SHAAPERA. 3. JOHN ABIGI. 4. FRED ZOHOL. 5. PAUL UKILE. 6. PHILIP AYAGWA. 7. STEPHEN MONGA. 8. DANIEL AGOM. 9. LINUS GYAASE. 10. TIMOTHY UESE. 11. FELIX MZE. Any objection to the registration should be forwarded to the Registrar General Corporate Affair Commission, (CAC) plot 420 Tigris crescent, off Aguiyi ironsi street, Maitama, Abuja within 28days of this publication.

Signed: F.I MNYIM ESQ

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

58

NEWS Let’s dialogue to end Boko Haram, says CAN

C

HAIRMAN, SouthWest Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Magnus Adeyemi Atilade, has urged President Goodluck Jonathan to create an enabling environment for dialogue with opposition groups to end Boko Haram insurgency.

In a statement in Lagos yesterday, Archbishop Atilade said dialogue became imperative with opposition groups in the North for peace to return.

He praised Jonathan for his courage and wise approach to terrorism in the country, stressing that the use of force sometimes could lead to a breakdown of law and order.

Atilade, who is also Chairman, South-West Zone of the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), emphasised that only the power of God could break the forces behind the challenges facing the nation in the past few years.

Driver dies after ‘touts’ attack’

M

EMBERS of the Heavy Duty Truck Drivers Association of Nigeria (HDTDAN) met yesterday in Onitsha, Anambra State, on how to stop intimidation of their members by touts.

This followed the death of a driver following the beating he and his colleague allegedly got from suspected touts.

Though the driver’s name could not be established yesterday, his surviving colleague, Desmond Ugwu, said the incident occurred on the Owerri-Port Harcourt Expressway.

The deceased was said to have died on the steering wheel at Obinze, near Owerri, the Imo State capital.

They were allegedly

From Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, Nnewi

beaten by touts suspected to be members of the a union and “agents” of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

Addressing reporters yesterday in Onitsha, Anambra State at the Ogbunike Toll Gate, Oyi Local Government Area, HDTDAN National Public Relations Officer (PRO) Uche Rogers Nebeuwa said the deceased was beaten to death at Obinze.

The National President of the association Chief Innocent Okemili said the meeting, which was held at the Ogbunike Toll-Gate, was to ensure that intimidation, harassment, extortion and stealing by the touts, “who

disguise as government agents”, are stopped.

He urged non-registered members to register to enable the association protect them.

Nebeuwa said the touts blocked the Owerri/Port Harcourt Expressway and flagged down Ugwu and the deceased, who obeyed.

Before the duo could bring out the documents the touts were demanding, the hoodlums had begun to beat them up.

The union’s spokesman said the touts ran away when they thought they were dead.

The late driver was said to have driven his vehicle away after regaining consciousness.

But he died shortly on the

steering wheel at Obinze, Nebeuwa said.

He said the matter was reported at the Elele Police Station, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The union’s spokesman said the touts beat Ugwu to a coma.

According to him, the touts have become a menace to members of the association across Nigeria.

Nebeuwa was, however, happy that the police arrested the suspected leader of the touts.

He hailed the police and commended the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Elele Police Station for the arrest.

“I urge the Federal Government to bring the touts to justice,” Nebeuwa added.

THE Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Igbere, Bende Local Government Area of Abia State have separately called for the return of former Governor Orji Uzor Kalu.

During visits to Kalu in his country home on Wednesday, the leadership of the PDP and PPA in his wards urged him to return to their parties.

The Chairmen of PDP Wards A and B in Igbere, Joseph Chika and Amadi Gideon Kalu, said it was time for Kalu to return to the party, which he helped to found.

Lagos to establish two asphalt plants

By Miriam Ndikanwu

LAGOS State Public Works Corporation, (LSPWC) officials yesterday met with leaders and land owners of Imota near Ikorodu, a Lagos suburb, on the establishment of ansphalt plant in the community.

LSPWC Chairman Mr. Gbenga Akintola, who led his team to the meeting, said it was necessary to educate the community on the benefits of the plant.

He said: “Since the corporation was rebranded, it has consistently maintained roads in the state, but to enhance our job, we appealed to the State Executive Council to approve the procurement of two asphalt plants in the state, that way, we will be able to attend to many more roads than what we are currently doing.”

How to raise good children,

by Fashola

By Oziegbe Okoeki

G

O V E R N O R Babatunde Fashola yesterday urged Nigerians to stop praising those whose source of wealth is questionable. He said at this year’s Fatima Charity Foundation prayer for the nation, held at the Muson Centre, Lagos.

Fashola, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Mrs. Olayinka Oladunjoye said the event came at a time when the nation needed serious prayers.

The obsession for wealth, he said, has pushed the youth to waywardness, adding that time has come for moral re-awakening.

Fashola said: “We shall overcome them; I am convinced that we would see a first class Nigeria, though the road maybe rough and bumpy.

“We, the leaders must lead by example for the youth to emulate, we must emulate the values of great leaders like Herbert Macaulay, Abraham Lincoln and others.”

Earlier, President of the Foundation, Hajia BintuFatima Tinubu said the prayer session, which is the third in the series, emphasised the fact that “we need prayers to overcome the myriad of problems confronting us as individuals and as a nation”.

She said it was imperative that “we turn to God and intensify prayers for God to see us through and give us the fortitude to overcome all challenges.

“We organise this prayer session as part of our collective effort to ensure harmonious existence amongst us, peaceful environment, good and responsible leadership and prosperous business undertaking in the New Year.

Abia PDP, PPA call for Kalu’s return

Court stops tomorrow’s parallel Ohanaeze election •Chancellor, Gregory University, Uturu, Imo State, Dr Gregory Ibe (left), Sales Director, Axion Global Engineering, Mr Donald Obi Okoye and Managing Director, Axion Global Engineering, Okey Okoye at the introduction of Axion Solid Base Stabiliser for construction in Abuja... yesterday PHOTO: ABAYOMI FAYESE

Ohanaeze Ndigbo chief calls for Igbo unity

T

HE newly-elected President-General of the pan-Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Enwo Igariwey, has said uniting Ndigbo to speak with one voice would be his major focus. Speaking with The Nation, the Ohanaeze leader noted that the biggest challenge facing Ndigbo is unity.

He said: “We have the demographic weight to change things if we talk with one voice and I want our people to talk with one voice.”

Reacting to the allegation

By Okorie Uguru

that his election did not follow due process, Igariwey explained that the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the organisation set up an election committee, which he said was approved by the Ime Obi, the kingmakers.

He said at the Ime Obi meeting, there was a motion that the election should be conducted on or before January 15. He said the election committee decided to hold the election on January 12, three days before the expir-

ing date. He said: “We had delegates from Ireland, the United States of America, India, South Africa, Ghana, Mali other countries.” On the protest by some people over the election, the new Ohanaeze president said the election was a public affairs and that it was normal for people to complain when they lose an election.

One of the allegation that he was sponsored by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the hierarchy of Ohanaeze, he said: “I am not a member of the PDP and I

have not run for election in the past 20 years. I was the Deputy President of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo before my election as the President. The Ohanaeze is an Igbo affairs and the governors do not dictate what happens. It is the general assembly delegates that came from all the states of the South east and Rivers and Delta States that elect.

They usually do not impose candidates for offices.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo held its election last Saturday and a new executive was elected.

Gana, Anya, Adefaye on board of four federal varsities

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan yesterday approved the constitution of the Governing Council for four Federal Government Universities.

The approval was announced in a statement signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Anyim Pius Anyim.

According to the statement, the date for the formal inauguration of the boards is to be announced later.

From Vincent Ikuomola, Abuja

The varsities are: the Federal University of Agriculture, Umudike with Prof. Anya O. Anya as Chairman and Chief Chris Iroegbe, Prof. Rasheed Kola Ojikutu, and Mr. Akinboro Muyiwa as members.

The University of Lagos has former Minister of Information and Orientation, Prof Jerry Gana as its chairman and Dr. Monday Okoni, Igwe Kris Onyekwuluje,

Dr. Garba Usman Tetengi and Gbenga Adefaye as members.

Senator Bob Dickson Effiong was named as the chair of the University of Benin Ojamila Salik, J K Gazama, Chief Samuel Edohoeket and Shettima Muhammed Saleh.

The Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, has Prof.

Rowland Ndoma Egba as its chairman and Chief Moses Otazi, Omoyele Daniel, Tijjani Goni Guzamala and Mr. Sunday Ibrahim Ameh as board

members.

“Each varsity governing council shall also include the the Vice-Chancellor; the Deputy Vice-Chancellors; one person from the Federal Ministry of Education; four persons appointed by the Senate from among its members; two persons appointed by the Congregation from among its members; and one person appointed by Convocation from among its members,” the statement said.

AN Enugu High Court yesterday stopped tomorrow’s parallel election of the PanIgbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, by a group in Ebonyi State to override last Saturday’s poll in Enugu.

The Chairman and Secretary of last Saturday’s Election Committee, Dr Chris Asoluka and Dr Felicia Eneh, filed a suit against a former Secretary of the Election Committee, Richard Ozobu.

Justice C. I. Nwobodo restrained Ozobu, his agents, privies and others from conducting any election to elect any other officers as officers of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation.

The court also restrained the defendant and his agents from making further public statements or announcements or by text messages on behalf of Ohanaeze Ndigbo National Election Committee 2013 until the determination of the substantive suit.

The court also restrained Ozobu and his agents and privies from creating any third party interest by conducting any Ohanaeze election tomorrow and beyond pending the determination of the motion on notice.

The case was adjourned till 30 January for hearing on the motion on notice.

Chief O. A. U. Onyema, the new Deputy President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, appeared for the plaintiffs.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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NEWS FRSC: 526 die in road accidents

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IVE hundred and twenty six deaths were recorded in road accidents in Edo, Anambra and Delta states between January and November last year.

Zonal Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Wole Olaniran said yesterday in Benin City that 3,120 persons were injured.

The zonal commander said 487 people died and 2,635 were injured in 2011.

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

Edo State recorded the highest number of casualties in 2011 and 2012 because of its vantage position as a transit state to other states.

Olaniran said 186 deaths and 1,254 injuries were recorded in the state.

He named the Benin-OreLagos Road, especially the Ovia River Bridge, as one of the worst accident spots.

Communities laud Shell From Shola O’Neil, Warri

R •Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola (third left); Vice Chancellor, Fountain University, Prof. Basiru Raji (second right); President, Nasirulahi-Il-Fathi-Society of Nigeria (NASFAT), Alhaji Sherf Yusuf (second left); Vice President 1, Muhammed Abdullahi, n engineer (left); Deputy Missioner, Imam Onike Azeez (third right) and the National Women Secretary, Alhaja Nafisat Arogundade, during the visit of the NASFAT headquarters to the Governor at the Government House...yesterday.

Tompolo seeks support for Jonathan

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FORMER leader of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), Government Ekpemupolo (aka Tompolo), has called for peace in the feud between President Goodluck Jonathan and former MEND leaders.

The face-off between the President and former militant leaders assumed a new dimension on Wednesday when Ateke Tom and Victor Ben Ebikademor (aka Boyloaf) slammed Jonathan’s perceived lack-lustre performance and failure to develop the region.

They spoke in a statement in which they described the Jonathan-led administration as a “huge embarrassment”

From Shola O’Neil, Warri

and a “threat to their patience.”

The duo’s attack came a week after Asari Dokubo, leader of the Niger Delta Volunteers Force, also blasted the President.

The trio’s outburst has led to concerns that the hitherto robust relationship between the Federal Government and the ex-militants has degenerated.

There are rumours that the latest tension between the President and his kinsmen may not be unconnected with the Federal Government’s refusal to renew the pipeline surveillance contracts awarded to former militants.

Although Tompolo refused

to condemn his former colleagues, he said: “There’s a need for all Niger Deltans to rally round Mr. President on the way forward.”

He spoke through his media aide, Paul Bebenimibo, saying, “I beg to differ from them on their assessment of Mr. President.”

Tompolo conceded that all interest groups have genuine reasons to be dissatisfied.

He urged those who have better ideas on how to improve the nation to proffer solutions rather than ‘attack’ the President.

“While we cannot speak for the President because we are not his spokespersons, there is the need for cooperation to develop the region.”

Tompolo described the

Oshiomhole: ACN aspirants to DO State Governor Adface primaries ams Oshiomhole yesterday said all local govern-

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ment aspirants under the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) would participate in the party’s primaries.

There have been speculations that the governor and some party leaders have selected some aspirants.

Oshiomhole, who denied the allegation, said the ACN primaries would be conducted in line with the party’s constitution.

The governor, who spoke through his Special Adviser on Media, Kassim Afegbua, said he believes in the one-manone-vote mantra.

Afegbua said: “It is not the business of the governor to conduct primaries. It is the decision of the party and the executive.

From Osagie Otabor, Benin

“The governor is the state party leader but the ACN that I know does not behave like a typical Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“If the governor benefitted from the party’s primary even when he was a sole aspirant, why do you think he will want to stop a process that will bring more candidates?

“Oshiomhole has always insisted that due process mustbe followed. He is very passionate about democratic processes leading to choice of candidates.

“In a multi-party democracy, if you anoint candidates, chances are that the candidate will lose the election. It is bet-

ter you allow candidates to emerge from primaries. We are going to ensure that all candidates go through primaries.

“Oshiomhole is a beneficiary of free and fair election.

“This election will be free and fair. He has given an order to the State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) to ensure that things are done properly.

“He has said there should a difference from the past. People are going to see candidates campaigning in the streets.”

Reacting to calls by the PDP for boycott of the election, Afegbua said the PDP should field candidates to test its strength at the grassroots.

Six foreigners kidnapped in Niger Delta, IX expatriates working we cried for developsays Orubebe after for Setraco Construction ment.

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Company, which is dualising the East-West Road, have been kidnapped.

Minister of Niger Delta Affairs Godsday Orubebe said this when he inspected work done from Effurun, in Delta State, through Kaiama in Bayelsa State, Port Harcourt and Ogoniland in Rivers State to Eket and Oron in Akwa Ibom State.

Orubebe called on stakeholders to prevail on kidnappers to give peace a chance.

He assured that the strategic road would be completed in December 2014.

The minister said the inspected sections has 42 bridges, with 32 completed and 10

From Bisi Olaniyi and Osemwengie Ben Ogbemudia, Port Harcourt

ongoing.

The road has 768 culverts, with 740 completed.

Setraco is dualising from Effurun to Eleme Junction in Port Harcourt.

Reynolds Construction Company (RCC) is handling the dualisation from Eleme Junction to Eket; Jetro Contruction Company is dualising from Eket to Oron.

Orubebe said: “Six expatriates were kidnapped between November last year and now.

“They (kidnappers) should not drive away development,

“Huge funds are spent by the companies on security.

“The inspection is historic because many people have talked about the East-West Road.

“The sand-filling will be completed between now and June. “ We will deliver the dualisation in December 2014.

“The contract was awarded in 2006, but nothing was done till 2009/2010, when the job was redesigned and contractors were mobilised to sites.

“The collapse of some parts of the road was caused by last year’s floods.

“The stone-base was washed away. You must create land through sand-filling, to construct roads in the Niger Delta.“

slow pace of work on the East/West Road as a cause of concern and advised those saddled with the responsibility to be rise to the challenge.

“As a Niger Delta leader, Tompolo is committed to the development of the region and we agree that there is a lot to be done to achieve this.

“We also feel that that the President needs the support of not only Niger Deltans, but all Nigerians, because the task before him is onerous.

“We would, therefore, like to suggest that we give him time as he has promised to increase the pace this year,” he added.

ESIDENTS of Odimodi community in Burutu Local Government of Delta State have praised the management of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) for renovating three classroom blocks.

Their Secretary, Kiyagha Sam Guwagha, said: “We are particularly grateful for the pace of the project, which was jointly monitored by the implementation committee (PIC) and the SPDC GMoU, until its completion and handing over today.

“We are also grateful to Shell for this remarkable gesture and assure that it will be put to good use for the school and its pupils.”

Edo to employ PLWAs

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HE Edo State Government yesterday said it would employ Persons Living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus/ Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (PLWAs).

This hint was dropped when a group, Network for People Living with HIV/ AIDS in Edo State, visited the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere.

The visit was also to appreciate and thank Governor Adams Oshiomhole for the food items he donated to them during the Yuletide.

Ihonvbere said: “As for the capacity building of your members, we will reach the Rapid Response Agency to get employment for some of those of your members concerned and they have to be graduates, OND or NCE holders, or persons who are computer literate.

“We will also see how we can put your vehicles in good shape for you to carry out your campaigns. “ Oshiomhole’s concern for people living with HIV/ AIDS is enormous. The level of his support and attention for you is very high. .”

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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FOREIGN NEWS Somali militants kill French hostage

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HE Somali Islamist group al-Shabab says it has killed French intelligence agent Denis Allex in retaliation for a failed French operation to free him.

The French government has said it believes Allex was killed during last week’s raid, in which two French commandos also died.

Allex - a French spy - was kidnapped in Somalia in July 2009.

Al-Shabab, which is affiliated to al-Qaeda, said on its Twitter account that Allex had been killed on Wednesday.

Al-Shabab had earlier threatened to kill Allex and said that because of the rescue attempt, France would be responsible for his death.

The group has also cited

France’s intervention against Islamists in Mali in its decision to kill Allex.

On Friday, about 50 French commandos launched an assault by helicopter on the alShabab stronghold of Bulo Marer, believing Mr Allex was being held in the town.

Al-Shabab said it had advance warning of the attack and Mr Allex - a codename for the French intelligence agent - was not in Bulo Marer at the time.

France says 17 militants were killed during the fighting, which witnesses said was intense and lasted for at least an hour.

Several civilians were reported to have been killed in the clashes.

Block of flats collapses in Egypt

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BLOCK of flats has collapsed in the coastal Egyptian city of Alexandria, killing at least 25 people.

Others were injured as the eight-story building collapsed, reports said. The cause of the collapse is not yet clear.

The incident came a day after 19 conscripts were killed when a military train carrying new recruits derailed south of Egypt’s capital, Cairo, That accident sparked several protests accusing the government of failing to overhaul Egypt’s aged public services.

Building collapses are not uncommon in Egypt because of lax building standards, analysts say.

The collapse happened in the early hours of Wednesday when most tenants were thought to be at home, reports said.

Alexandria’s security chief, police Maj Gen Abdel-Mawgood Lutfi, said the 24-flat block was built five years ago.

Rescue workers used mechanical diggers to search through the rubble for survivors, while neighbouring buildings were evacuated as a precaution.

Egypt’s Prime Minister Hisham Qandil visited the scene of Tuesday’s derailment but had to leave after being abused by bystanders angry at his government’s failure to improve railway safety and infrastructure.

Egypt’s roads and railways have a notoriously poor safety record.

Algerian army moves to end siege

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LGERIAN forces have moved against Islamic militants holding hostages at a gas facility in eastern Algeria, the state news agency reports.

Four foreign hostages were freed but the operation resulted in a number of "victims", APS agency said.

Algerian soldiers had been surrounding the facility near In Amenas that kidnappers occupied on Wednesday, after killing a Briton and an Algerian.

Reports quoting militants said at least 34 hostages and 14 kidnappers died.

Militants also told Mauritania's ANI news agency that seven foreign hostages were still alive after the Algerian military raid.

Nearly 600 Algerian workers and four foreign hostages - two from Scotland, one from France and one from Kenya - were freed during the operation, APS reported.

An Irishman who had been kidnapped was freed and has spoken to his family, Ireland's foreign ministry said.

APS quoted an unnamed source as saying that "about half" the foreign hostages had been liberated.

The Algerian military targeted two vehicles as they tried to escape from the site with an unknown number of people on board. Militants told local media It was not clear whether the Algerian military raid was ongoing.

Japan asked Algeria to stop the operation and not to en-

danger the lives of the hostages.

Algerian Prime Minister Abdelmalek Sellal called UK counterpart David Cameron to say the operation was under way at 11:30 GMT, Mr Cameron's spokesman said.

Cameron made clear that he would have preferred to have been informed in advance, but the Algerians said they had to act "immediately", the spokesman added.

The White House said it was "seeking clarity" on the operation.

Militants had earlier said they were holding 41 foreign nationals. They were be-

lieved to include British, Japanese, US and Norwegian citizens.

Some 30 Algerians and 15 foreigners were reported to have escaped from the gas facility before the Algerian military intervened.

Algerian Interior Minister Daho Ould Kablia said the kidnappers were Algerian and operating under orders from Mokhtar Belmokhtar, a senior commander of al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) until late last year.

Mr Ould Kablia said the kidnappers had not entered Algeria from a neighbouring country.

One statement purported to be from the hostage-takers called for an end to the French military intervention against Islamist rebels in neighbouring Mali.

Algeria allowed France to use its airspace during its operation against Islamist militants who took control of northern Mali. The French operation began on Friday.

The Tigantourine gas facility is about 40km (25 miles) south-west of In Amenas, which is close to the Libyan border and about 1,300km (800 miles) south-east of Algiers.

India fast-tracks rape suspects’ trial

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HE case of five men charged with the gang rape and murder of a 23year-old woman in Delhi has been moved to a fast-track court for trial.

Lawyers for the defendants say that the case will get under way on Monday.

A sixth suspect, who is thought to be 17, will be tried separately in a youth court if it is confirmed he is a minor.

The case has shocked India and sparked a debate about the treatment of women. If convicted, the men could face the death penalty.

In the wake of the public outcry and nationwide protests, the government promised a fast-track legal process for this and other rape cases.

It announced it was setting up six fast-track courts in Del-

hi to allow crimes against women to be dealt with swiftly. Legal proceedings in India sometimes involve years of delays.The five accused have been named as Ram Singh, his brother Mukesh, Pawan Gupta, Vinay Sharma and Akshay Thakur.

The lawyer for Ram Singh, said he would file a petition arguing for the case to be transferred out of Delhi, fearing that the proceedings might be prejudiced because of the intense media interest.

“We are sure we will not get justice in Delhi,” VK Ananad said.

Last week another lawyer claimed that the men had been tortured and coerced into confessing they were guilty.

Officials refused to comment on the allegations, citing le-

gal restrictions.

The lawyers for two of the suspects have said they will plead not guilty. It is unclear how the three accused will plead. Prosecutors have said they have extensive forensic evidence.

The victim, a physiotherapy student who cannot be named in India for legal reasons, and a male friend were attacked on a bus in south Delhi on 16 December. She died two weeks later in hospital in Singapore.

Campaigners are calling for tougher rape laws and reforms to the police, who - critics say often fail to file charges against accused attackers.

The government has said that it will bring in stronger sexual assault laws and has established several committees to recommend changes in the law.

SPORT EXTRA

Maigari upbeat as Eagles train in Nelspruit today

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IGERIA Football Federation (NFF), president Aminu Maigari has said the Super Eagles are at the AFCON to reclaim the trophy they last won in Tunisia 19 years ago.

Speaking on arrival in Johannesburg on Thursday morning, Maigari said the

Eagles are battle-ready.

“People have been talking about the chances of the different teams. It is nothing out of the ordinary. Some persons have gone ahead to name their favourite teams for the trophy.

My own favourite team for the trophy will be the Super Eagles of Nigeria,” he said.

“We have come to the finals with a fine blend of experienced and ambitious competitors; only few of them have been at the Nations Cup before. But the bulk of them have been together over the past 15 months and blended very well.”

The team, led by Enyimba

boss Felix Anyansi-Agwu, landed in Johannesburg Thursday morning and arrived in Nelspruit on Thursday evening and immediately checked into the Ingwenyama Conference and Sport Resort.

They will have their first training in Nelspruit today.

the main event.

The giant jersey which the organisers call the ‘biggest jersey’ covered the entire playing area of the Liberation stadium pitch which has hosted some of the super eagles’ games in the past and was signed by both exprofessionals, professionals and football supporters who has the success of the eagles in the current campaign at heart.

Speaking at the event, the marketting manager of guinnes, Mr. Obinna Anyalebechi said this was in line with the partnership that has existed between the Super eagles and the company for over five years.

“What we are here to do today is really basic because guinness as a brand for over five years has been supporting Nigerian football. We’ve been doing a whole lot starting from when we became the official

beer of the super eagles.

“We have over time always recognised that football is the number one passion of the Nigerian consumer. We have also realised that whenever the Super Eagles are supported massively by Nigerians, it kind gives them more impetus to do well and they have also told us that and that is why we are trying to drum up more support for them”.

The Rivers state sports boss, Fred Igwe was also there to sign and to have the full experience of the giant jersey and could not hide his surprise at its massiveness. “ I think that this is a very beautiful idea, nobel and beautiful. I was not expecting anything as large as this. I was thinking of a size that people can hold, not one as massive as this, this is beyond my imagination”, he said.

Igwe further commended guinnes for the great idea and encouraged other corporate bodies to follow suit.

2012/2013 SEASON

AFCON: Guinness drums up support for Eagles Gov. Orji splashes cash on Enyimba •Launches Jersey signing in PH

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UINNESS, the official beverage sponsors of the Nigerian Super Eagles at the 2013 African Cup of Nations, AFCON has launched a massive campaign to drum up support for the national team as they begin their campaign in South Africa later this month.

The massive campaign

•Keshi

From Florence Nkem Israel, Port Harcourt launched in Port Harcourt on Wednesday had the signing of the giant jersey at the Liberation stadium by the lovers of the game in the garden city and its environs as

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HE preparations of sixtime Nigerian champions, Enyimba International Football Club of Aba ahead of the 2012/2013 football season have been given a major boost by the Abia State Governor, Chief Dr. T. A. Orji, who has splashed cash on the team for the payment of sign-on fees.

Chairman of Enyimba, Felix Anyansi-Agwu, disclosed this in an emotional address to players and officials at the club’s ground on Tuesday morning.

Chief Anyansi revealed that for the first time, 50 per cent of sign-on fees for the team will be paid before the start of a season and expressed deep gratitude to the State Governor, Chief T. A. Orji, for making such a remarkable achievement possible.

“This is evidence of the Governor’s trust in the team,” Anyansi-Agwu said. “This is a proof that the Government of

Abia State is solidly behind the team and a sign that things will be better than they ever were.

“We must now seize this opportunity to return the team to the top as a mark of appreciation, as a way of repaying the faith that the Governor has in the team. This is a historic point in our club and we must achieve the success to back it up.”

Speaking further Chief Anyansi said: “As Chairman of Enyimba, I am deeply humbled by this action of the Governor, Chief T. A. Orji and I thank him sincerely for his act of kindness.

It is up to you, the players, to express your own gratitude by embracing a positive and disciplined attitude so as to achieve the best results,” he said.

He further thanked the technical crew for working remarkably hard and urged the players not to lose focus on the greater challenges ahead.

THE NATION FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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NEWS

Boko Haram: Nigeria goes to war in Mali Continued from page 4

Security Council called on member-states as well as regional and international organisations to provide co-ordinated support to the request of the Transitional Authorities of Mali regarding an international military force assisting the Malian Armed Forces in recovering the occupied regions in the north of Mali, including thorough military training, provision of equipment and other forms of assistance in efforts to combat terrorist and affiliated extremist groups.

He noted that ECOWAS had constituted a Working Group with the responsibility of fashioning out the best way to implement Resolution 2085 of December 20, 2012, which endorsed the deployment of African-led force (AFISMA), under the Chapter VII for the resolution of the political and security crises in Mali .

Mark, who summed up contributions by senators on the request, said Nigeria is not just a big brother in ECOWAS but a big brother in Africa.

He noted that this country should be concerned about what happens in Africa, particularly if it will have ripple effects in Nigeria.

The Senate President said: “The situation in Mali is such that if we don’t get involved, we will not be able to cope with the consequence of it and I think it is on that basis we should act and act fast.

“I believe that the request is in order and our troops have performed extremely well any

time they have gone outside this country and I think they are well equipped to move as quickly or to be deployed as quickly as it is possible.

“One important thing is that because of the nature of the crises in Mail and because of the characters involved, I strongly believe that if we do not intervene, even on our own, the rest of the African countries and a lot of the European countries will request that we intervene - for obvious reasons.

“It is not just that the rebels want to take over in Bamako, I think they also have a grand design to spread their tentacles well beyond the boundaries of Mali and that is the more reason we should try and join the other forces to nip it in the bud.”

He mandated the Committees on Defence and National Security to monitor Mali to ensure that Nigerian troops there are well equipped, well prepared and in a position to carry out the roles they have been sent there to undertake.

Senator Olufemi Lanlehin, who supported the deployment of troops to Mali, noted that the measure is in Nigeria ’s self interest.

The lawmaker added that apart from deployment of troops to Mali , Nigerians should work to contain the activities of Boko Haram.

For Lanlehin, whatever it takes to contain and rout Boka Haram from the country should be done and done urgently.

He noted that the manifes-

tation in northern Mali is that terrorist groups are pushing to engulf Nigeria.

“It is in our self interest to arrest the situation” he said.

Other Senators who contributed included Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, Senators Magnus Abe, Victor Ndome-Egba, Abdul Ningi, Ayogu Eze and Chris Anyanwu.

Also yesterday, Dr. Jonathan called for a more robust global response to terrorism.

He spoke after reviewing events in Algeria and Northern Mali with the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Andrew John Pocock.

President Jonathan, according to a statement by his spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, said the world clearly needed to unite and do much more than is presently being done to contain terrorism with its very negative impact on global peace and security.

Jonathan also condemned

Wednesday’s kidnapping of British, French and other foreign workers at a gas facility in Eastern Algeria by terrorists who claimed to be responding to France’s intervention in Mali.

The President said Nigeria will continue to work hard with its partners in the international community to ensure that terrorism is vigorously rolled back across the world.

The President told Mr. Pocock that in furtherance of Nigeria’s commitment to the war against terrorism in West Africa, Nigerian troops had been deployed in Mali to join up with the multinational force assembling there to restore Northern Mali to the control of the Malian Government.

President Jonathan also received the Letters of Credence of the first Ambassador of South Sudan to Nigeria, Mr. Parmena Mankuet Mangar.

PDP crisis: Obasanjo may hold talks with party leaders Continued from page 4

cannot achieve much with this distraction.”

A source close to Tukur said: “I think some leaders have decided to intervene and they might use the civic reception to set a peace tone.

“Already, Tukur has accepted to be the chairman of the civic reception in Abeokuta to prove a point that he is not against the ex-President or the interest of the Southwest.

But Tukur ran into a fresh storm following allegation that he had passed a recording of a meeting by governors to the President.

It was alleged that a governor from the Northcentral gave the “strange tape” to Tukur for onward transmission to Jonathan.

But Tukur, in a statement by Mr. Tajudeen Kareem on behalf of Tukur’s Media Strategy Team, denied running any espionage for Jonathan.

Benin oil depot back in operation

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STRONG feeling of appreciation and re-awakening ran through the historic city of Benin in Edo State yesterday as Minister of Petroleum Resources Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke re-commissioned the strategic Benin Depot of the Pipelines and Products Marketing Company (PPMC) which has been out of operation since 2005.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole said with the re-activation of the Benin Depot by the minister, the Federal Government has demonstrated its resolve to sustain the ongoing reforms in the oil and gas industry.

“The minister has demonstrated that indeed good things can come from the Petroleum industry as well as the NNPC,” he said.

Oshiomole recalled how he had to embark on what he termed a ‘pilgrimage’ to the Warri Refinery at the inception of his administration, to solicit for the supply of petroleum products to the state. “I thank God that I don’t have to make such long walk to Warri again because the Benin depot is back to service.” he said.

The governor pledged to mobilise the resources as well as the people of Edo State to combat the issue of pipeline vandalism which he described as a national menace.

Declaring the depot open for operation, Mrs. Alison-Madueke noted that the revamping of the Benin depot is a single item in a long list of practical measures designed by the President Jonathan’s administration to sanitise the downstream sector of the oil and gas industry.

She said: “As an industry, we are extremely satisfied that the transformation agenda of the President in the oil and gas industry is coming to fruition. We are grateful to the Joint Task force for

the level of support they have given the petroleum sector especially in the area of pipeline vandalism. It clearly shows how successful we can be as a people if we come together to combat a scourge.”

Group Managing Director of the NNPC Andrew Yakubu said in the months ahead, the drive to revitalise the nation’s petroleum products depot will be sustained with the re-opening of the Gombe and Jos depots. “We have recommissioned Mosimi, Aba and now Benin. But the good news is that we are not going to stop here, very soon we shall be in Gombe, Jos and other depots. In fact, we are not going to stop until the 21 depots become fully operational,” he said.

Describing the depot revamping project as NNPC’s contribution to the transformation agenda of the Federal Government, Yakubu urged stakeholders to support the corporation in its quest to combat the incidence of pipeline vandalism.

Similar commendations came from the leadership of the Edo State chapters of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association (IPMAN) and the Petroleum Products Tanker Drivers Association.

Constructed in 1978 and inaugurated on August 30,1979, the Benin depot has 17 storage tanks with a combined design capacity to store 121, 720,000 litres of petroleum products including premium motor spirit, household kerosene and automotive gas oil. The facility has nine loading arms. The depot serves as a link for products evacuation from the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company through a 16-inch pipeline traversing 89.9km.

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TODAY IN THE NATION

FRIDAY, JANUARY 18, 2013

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TRUTH IN DEFENCE OF FREEDOM

AST WEEK, I ended my comments with a reference to Nyerere’s idea of the purpose of education, which, for him was to transmit from one generation to the next the accumulated wisdom and knowledge of the society, and to prepare the young people for their future membership of the society and their active participation in its maintenance or development. I then suggested that traditional communities of old paid serious attention to this important area of their responsibilities within the scope of the resources—tangible and intangible—available to them. And I suggested that we must ask ourselves a pertinent question: “how have our contemporary societies fared with regard to the discharge of this grave responsibility?” Today, I deal with this question.

Let me first try to explain and defend the view that traditional societies paid attention to the responsibility to educate, which again, is simply preparing the young people that society brings into its world for meaningful membership of the society and for active participation in its maintenance and development.

Whatever little doubt there is about the theory of a fundamental selfishness in the motivation of individuals and societies for wanting children and bringing them into the world is removed if we pay close attention to the very idea of reproduction, which connotes the act of producing again the same entity. We want to reproduce ourselves because we crave immortality. Bina ba ku a feeru boju. Bogede ku a fomo e ropo. Death must not be final; there must be continuity. This was and still is the understanding of traditional communities.

This is why individual families and communities at large would always place a premium on preparing their young for their future membership of the society so they can carry on; so families and communities do not suffer extinction.

The preparation of the young, which is what education is about, takes different forms but with the same goal and objective. Thus families prepare their young to take over the traditional role that the family is identified with in the community. Music making, crafts making, hunting guild, and healing are activities for which particular families are known and the children of such families just grow into the activities and thus maintain the horizontal division of labor within the society.

A second but complimentary approach to preparing the young is the transmission of the family’s and society’s values of the dignity of labor, honesty, self-respect and dependability.

No family wants its family name put to shame through the actions of any of its sons and daughters. Preparing the young for membership of the society is arming them against the disease of shamelessness. Note that preparation for the acquisition of material possession has nothing to do with this philosophy of education. The major goal is for the values of society to be transmitted and sustained, that everyone is empowered to make meaningful contributions to the society, and that the society is thereby primed for perpetuity.

The foregoing enables us to understand why

RIPPLES NIGERIA’S DREAM AT INDEPENDENCE GONE–Activist

Yes, of course...SINCE INDEPENDENCE

‘We need to identify the demons that drive the ruling class and dispossess our minds of every vanity that makes us habitable to similar fiends.’

VOL.8 NO.2,375

C OMMENT & D EB ATE EBA

SEGUN GBADEGESIN gbadegesin@thenationonlineng.net

The nation and the education of the public

•Minister of Education Prof Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa’i

none of the samplers of our traditional communities boasted of overly rich or overly poor people. And in none of those societies did we ever have loafers and idlers. This is not romanticism. There was the full engagement of every member of the traditional communities in one form of activity or another. That was the outcome of the system of traditional education.

Thus, unless during festivals, it would be very unusual to behold a sea of heads in the central square of any traditional village community, roaming about aimlessly and hopelessly.

Ponder then over the present condition of our downtowns, inner cities and urban communities and ask yourself the question: “how

have our contemporary societies fared in the grave responsibility of preparing the young for meaningful membership of the society and for its maintenance and development?” And the answer is not in doubt: Our contemporary record has been woeful and absolutely not comparable with the achievements of traditional society in the education of the young.

Surely, we cannot compare apples and oranges, it might be argued. The world of traditional society was/is parochial and closed, with little or no ambition. The transformation of that world into the modern nation-state is something to appreciate and celebrate. But with that transformation come the difficulties of reconciling different outlooks and mobilising opposing forces. The fact that our own particular mode of transformation was mediated by foreign forces, which had little to no regard for the antecedent value orientation did not help matters. Indeed, it may be noted that, through the instrumentalities of those foreign forces, we moved away from the traditional notion of education as preparation for meaningful membership in society to one that emphasises the goal of individual advancement.

I am not persuaded by the kind of defence of failure that is represented in the preceding paragraph. The point is this: whether we accept the traditional conception of education as preparation of the young for a meaningful membership in the society or we affirm the so-called foreign mediated version that sees education as the promotion of individual advancement, our contemporary efforts have failed to produce results. We have failed to prepare the majority of our young for meaningful mem-

HARDBALL

N

IGERIAN troops are finally departing for Mali, ahead of the September 2013 date originally planned by the United Nations to put an intervention force in Mali.

This column had twice counselled Nigeria not to go into Mali until there was indication the complex and fundamental problems that precipitated the secessionist crisis were understood and concrete efforts made to tackle them. Any intervention, the column warned, was bound to focus mainly on achieving quick, moraleboosting military victory without a corresponding plan to win the peace.

However, by restarting and intensifying their efforts to cut a wider swath of the country than the northern half they had controlled for more than six months, separatist Tuareg groups, in particular, Ansar Dine and Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), inadvertently triggered French intervention (Opération Serval) nearly nine months early. The now increasingly activist France leads the cavalry with the deployment of ground troops in Mali, and is in direct combat against the separatist al-Qaedalinked Islamist groups which control the northern half of the country and had purged the moderate Tuareg rebels, the National Movement for the Liberation of Azawad (MNLA), from their ranks.

But France’s direct involvement, contrary to its earlier stand not to put ground troops in Mali, is certain to complicate the crisis, and probably internationalise it in ways unanticipated and injurious to the long term peace and stability of Mali and even to the interests of France itself, as the Algerian hostage crisis briefly indicated. Jihadist forces always love the opportunity to take on the West in any guise, whether it is equal or unequal combat.

Dilemma in Mali The gusto with which Ansar Dine announced to the media early in the week that they were locked in combat with France and the “Crusaders” is a testimony to this bizarre, sanguinary predilection. Yet, by launching an invasion southwards believed to be capable of threatening the capital, Bamako, it was the rebels that provoked the spontaneous French intervention. In fact, going by the speed of the rebel attacks and the near collapse of the Malian Army, it was feared last week that Bamako could fall in weeks. To prevent such a catastrophic collapse of the entire country and the imposition of Afghanistan-type Islamic rule that nurtures and sponsors terrorism, France decided to act. It had become clear that the UN September date for the regional intervention force to intervene in Mali was unrealistic.

France has received encouragement from fellow European Union (EU) countries, which fear Mali could be turned into a terrorist haven by the rebels. ECOWAS forces have also mobilised. The rebels who number less than 2,000 fighting men have inexplicably decided to take on 2,500 French troops and 3.300 ECOWAS troops, with Nigeria contributing 900 men and commanding the regional force. For as long as the rebels stick to conventional war tactics, it is unlikely they can get the better of the multinational force, no matter how inhospitable the terrain. The better armed and numerically stronger intervention force is expected to achieve easy victory. But the problem is winning the peace in a country that is poor and more than half of which is absolutely inhospitable and vast.

OLATUNJI OLOLADE

bership of society and we have not quite succeeded in putting the majority of them on the ladder of individual advancement. In fact, I don’t see a serious conflict between the two conceptions. A young person that is successfully prepared for individual advancement does not thereby stop being a meaningful member of society provided he or she is not ego-centric or ego-driven.

The caveat just entertained is the crux of the matter. There is a shortsighted mentality that views individual advancement in clearly egocentric terms and it is represented in the majority of those who took over from the foreign forces. To this group, the good of the self takes precedence over the good of the whole and their educational policies reflect this mindset.

That was why even in our nation, it took the courage and foresightedness of only one regional leader to uphold and argue the view that human beings are the most important resource and must be the subject of societal and national investment so they can become meaningful members of society.

This philosophical position was then combined with a visionary planning that ensures that the policy of Universal Free Primary Education (UFPE) was successful. Teacher training, schools construction and classroom space were prioritised. Additionally provision was made for the products of the UFPE to proceed to post primary institutions with the establishment of secondary modern schools and technical and trade schools. This was why the phenomenon of area boys was a rare occurrence in the fifties and sixties.

That vision has only been furthered in a few progressive islands that dot the ocean of intellectual and political stupor that makes up our national existence. And it is not a surprise that our young ones are hopeless and aimless. We brought them into the world without a plan for their becoming meaningful members of society. We don’t seem to have a clue as to how to make provision for the masses of drop outs from every level of the system so they don’t become useless to themselves. And the ones that make it through the systems become despondent because they have no jobs and they have no means of self-employment. Until we come to the realisation that the nation must educate its public for meaningful existence, we will continue to live with the consequences of our collective denial.

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•Hardball is not the opinion of the columnist featured above While the French-led intervention force was inevitable given the rebel advance on the south and the appalling indecision and weakness of ECOWAS in tackling the crisis when it began in March 2012, the UN must not lose sight of the factors that predisposed Mali into crisis and rebellion. Economic growth, which was trudging on at a manageable five percent or so, had by last year slowed down agonisingly to a little over one percent. Importantly, too, and in spite of Mali being a poster child for regional democracy, it had become insular, allowing the problems in the north to fester.

More crucially, the coup d’etat led by Captain Amadou Sanogo was a disaster that aggravated the country’s crisis. The coup truncated democracy, worsened economic crisis, and offered no useful initiatives in tackling the rebellion in the North. Indeed, the rebels used the coup as a casus belli.

France and the regional intervention force may win the war – and there is no compelling reason for them not to do it soonest because most northerners are reluctant to host al-Qaeda groups in their territory – but peace will not be secured until the fundamental problems are addressed purposefully and intelligently. If peace is to be restored, disaffected but moderate groups in the North will have to be encouraged to embrace negotiation, an economic rejuvenation programme will have to be drawn up by the UN, coup leaders will have to be forced out of the power loop and democracy re-established, perhaps with some sort of autonomy for parts of the country, and France must quickly relinquish control of the intervention force in order not to create a worse backlash. The country is too vast and too barren for outsiders to impose durable peace by force of arms.

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