Saturday 10th September 2016

Nigeria Out of Recession Very Soon, CBN Assures Oil revenue fell from $3.2 billion to less than $500m Churns out palliatives

Christopher Isiguzo in Enugu The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) yesterday in Enugu assured Nigerians that the country would be out of the current economic recession soon, while also urging Nigerians to

take advantage of the numerous policies, initiatives and programmes packaged by the bank to cushion the effects of the biting economic recession in the country.

Speaking at the bank's fair organised for small and me-

dium scale enterprises, artisan, farmers, banks, hairdressers, barbers, shoemakers and other business groups in Enugu, the Acting Director, Corporate Communications of CBN, Isaac Okoroafor said the bank was aware of the prevailing

economic condition in the country and added that the situation would not last long.

"Though we are in trouble, it is just for a while. As fast as we can, let us re-adjust ourselves so we can get out of the present situation. First of all, what is

recession? Recession simply put, is a period of dwindling economic realities. Incomes are falling and government's revenue is dwindling. Unemployment is increasing because businesses are not the way they should be. They sack workers

because income is shrinking.

"People are not spending especially in our case, because oil prices have collapsed and foreign exchange receipts have dried up; falling from Continued on page 8

FG Inaugurates Project Committee for Concession of Lagos/Abuja/Kano/PH Airports... Page 55 Saturday 10 September, 2016 Vol 21. No 7806 Price: N250

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Anglican Priest to Amaechi: Tell Buhari Nigerians are Suffering Eromosele Abiodun, Chiemelie Ezeobi and Peter Uzoho The Vicar of the Church of the Resurrection, Anglican Communion, 1004 Estate, Victoria Island, Lagos, Ven. Ife Okupevi has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to take urgent steps to steer the nation's economy from recession as the suffering in the land is becoming unbearable.

He stated this while delivering his sermon at the funeral Continued on page 8

HONOURING A LIFE WELL SPENT

L-R: Group Managing Director/CEO, UBA, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka; Chairman, Mr. Tony Elumelu; Publisher, Abuja Enquiry, Mr. Dan Akpowa; the bereaved THISDAY Editor, Ijeoma Nwogwugwu; Minister of Transport, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi; Publisher/Editor-in-Chief, THISDAY, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena; Vice Chairman, Skyway Aviation Handling Company, Mr. Chike Ogeah; Executive Director, Sahara Group, Mr. Tonye Cole and Chairman, Egbin Power Plc, Mr. Kola Adesina, at the final burial ceremony of the late Mrs. Elizabeth Chinyere Nwogwugwu, in Lagos ...yesterday

Ize-Iyamu, Oshiomhole Trade Blame over Postponed Edo Poll Sunday Adigun

APC cabal orchestrated shift PDP registered 8,000 militants, says governor Fayose: It’s coup against Nigerians Wike has no links with militants, says Tam-George EU, British Council Sue for Peace Yemi Adebowale in Lagos, Iyobosa Uwugiaren in Abuja, Ernest Chinwo in Port Harcourt, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City and Olakiitan Victor in Ado Ekiti Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in the now

rescheduled gubernatorial election in Edo State has alleged that the postponement of the election earlier scheduled for today had nothing to do with insecurity in the state.

On the same day, Governor Adams Oshiomhole accused some governors in the SouthSouth of perfecting plans to rig the election, noting that about

8,000 militants from those states were now registered in Edo for the September 28 poll.

Describing the postponement as well-planned to undermine the will of Edo people, IzeIyamu said he was convinced that the ‘’phantom security advice’’ by the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Security (DSS) was

orchestrated by Governor Adams Oshiomhole and some cabal within the APC – in the face of imminent defeat in the election.

The PDP candidate, in a statement by the Media Unit of his campaign organisation yesterday, added that he was taken aback by the ‘’rash’’ security advice – a day after President Muham-

madu Buhari was present at the final campaign rally of the All Progressives Congress in Benin City, which was concluded without any security hitch.

“It is regrettable, indefensible and shameful to hear from the security agencies that the Edo governorship election could not be held in a state without a history of security threat, and

where in less than 48 hours, the President and all the APC leaders across the country had converged on the city to hold their rally without security concerns.

“What kind of insecurity are they talking about? It is on record that INEC recently Continued on page 8

Buhari Not Interested in Peaceful Resolution of the N/Delta Crisis, Says Ethnic Nationalities ... Page 14

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PAGE EIGHT IZE-IYAMU, OSHIOMHOLE TRADE BLAME OVER POSTPONED EDO POLL conducted a hitch free senatorial bye-election in Borno State, a state which many security experts believe has remained a hotbed of terrorism and insurgency, yet the security agencies saw no purpose to advise against the conduct of the election,” Ize Iyamu said.

He stated that, earlier, at a forum held in Benin City on Wednesday September 7, 2016, all stakeholders in the election including contesting political parties and their candidates – together with the Chairman of INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakub, and security chiefs had unanimously agreed that the election shall hold as scheduled.

The PDP candidate said contrary to the fears over security, the Inter-Agency Committee on election security had given positive security clearance for the Saturday's poll, expressing surprise that the police had to raise concerns about security moments after giving guarantees through the Deputy Inspector General, Josak Habila, that all security arrangements for the election had been perfected.

He stated further: “It will be recalled that a few weeks ago, I alerted the good people of Edo State and the entire country that there were devious and evil plans to postpone the election, and I alluded to the fact that it was a ploy by Adams Oshiomhole and his party, the APC to undermine the electoral process – having sensed that the Edo people were fully prepared to vote them out in the governorship election.

“I want to emphasize that the good people of Edo State are fully prepared to resist any evil plot to manipulate the governorship election in favour of the APC. On my part and that of my great party, we have resolved to be law abiding and

to cooperate with the necessary authorities to ensure a hitch-free election, whenever they agree to conduct the election.

“May I use the opportunity to call on President Muhammadu Buhari – as father of the nation who has benefited from the process of a free and fair election, to caution the security agencies against plunging Edo State into avoidable security crisis just to satisfy the vaunting ambitions of the APC, Governor Adams Oshiomhole and his puppet candidate, Godwin Obaseki.’’

Ize-Iyamu called on the people of Edo State to be rest assured that whenever the governorship election holds, their votes shall count and will be protected, advising them to remain calm and continue to be law-abiding despite the deliberate attempt to provoke them.

PDP registered 8,000 militants for poll, says Oshiomhole Meanwhile, Governor Adams Oshiomhole has accused some governors in the South-South of perfecting plans to rig the governorship election in the state, noting that about 8,000 militants from those states are now registered for the rescheduled September 28 governorship election.

Speaking while receiving the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Idris Ibrahim at the Government House, Benin City, yesterday, Oshiomhole said: “our opponent unable to find local thugs to help them perpetrate violence which they have done between 1999 and 2007 when I took over, resorted to liaising with my brothers in the sub-region, Delta and Rivers, in particular, to export criminals and militants into Edo State in order to make peaceful election impossible.

“In line with my tradition, I have always tried to speak

out on any matter that I am worried about. I first raised this alarm on the eve of INEC Continuing Voters’ Registration exercise, an exercise that has been designed to register those who have become eighteen between the last registration and the current one.

“But these criminals who are determined to perpetrate violence and deny us the beauty of a peaceful election, unable to find local participants have chosen to import these militants with the support of two or so of my brothers. When I say brothers, I mean brother governors. It doesn’t matter if I disagree with them, they are my brothers.

“They are exporting militants to Edo State to register so that with the PVC in their hands, they will appear to have the lawful basis to be present at the designated polling units where they are expected to unleash violence on election day.

“At least, thirteen of them were handed over to the police.

The IG may wish to establish what has happened to those people who were handed over.

So, we handed them over to the police in line with what we were expected to do as civilised people.

“Having done that, we are clear that there are a lot of people, up to 8000 of them who are non-resident in Edo State, who are not indigenes of Edo State, who are indigenes and residents of Delta and Rivers states and some other states in the South-South, some from Bayelsa State who have registered for the sole purpose not to swell the votes, but to be present in various locations on election day.

Every person must try to conduct himself in line with the electoral act because we are going to be very decisive

L-R: National Security Adviser to the President, Major General (rtd) Babagana Mongunu; Senate President Bukola Saraki and President Muhammadu Buhari after Jumaat Prayers at the Presidential Villa, Abuja ...yesterday Bayo Omoboriowo

for anybody that violates the electoral act in the conduct of this election.”

Reacting to Oshiomhole" allegation, the PDP chairman in Edo, Chief Dan Orbih said "It is unfortunate that we have an outgoing governor of the state who has decided to state a lie just to achieve his political purpose.

We know very well that what the governor was telling the IG is not true.

"For me, he was indicting the security agencies right in front of the IG because if you can bring in 8,000 people from outside Edo State and they all found their way into Edo State without the security agencies watching their movement, it means that nobody is safe in Edo State and it is a big indictment on the security agencies."

Poll Postponement, Coup against Nigerians In a related development, Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose yesterday described the postponement of the Edo State governorship election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as a coup against Nigerians and “the beginning of the end for democracy” in the country.

In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Public Communications , Lere Olayinka, Fayose said INEC knew that it was not going to conduct the election on Saturday as scheduled but opted to deceive Nigerians.

Fayose said: “It is obvious that the All Progressives Congress (APC) feared that it can’t win the election and is ready to employ whatever crude means to subvert the wish of the people.”

The governor, who said he was alarmed by the APC government of President Muhammadu Buhari’s use of security agencies to arm-twist democratic process added: “I warned Nigerians not to elect Buhari because he lacked capacity mentally, morally and intellectually to superintend over any civilised society, now we are all seeing the results. Our economy is in recession and democracy is also in recession.

“Apart from the security agencies that they instructed not to provide security for the election, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) was under instruction since yesterday (Wednesday) not to release electoral materials to INEC.” “It was just a game by the APC-led federal government to frustrate the people of Edo State from kick-starting the journey of changing the APC one-chance change in Nigeria, but they should realise that the power of the people will always be greater than the power of

NIGERIA OUT OF RECESSION VERY SOON, CBN ASSURES $3.2 billion to less than $500 million a month. With this kind of situation, Nigerians should try to adjust themselves. This is the real change. We need to change our ways to the realisation of a new troubling situation which is that it is no longer business as usual. Nigerians should learn how to save the little they have, so they can use it over time.

"Nigerians should begin to eat what we produce and not to look for expensive dollars to import food. We should go back to corn, yam and made in Nigeria Rice. Let us produce toothpick and not import it from China. We should not import 20 million eggs from South Africa. We should stop importing chicken when we have them here. Nigeria should brace up.

This is not 100 metre marathon.

Let us brace up and change our ways. The most hit now are people who have refused to realise that we ought to eat what we produce," he said.

On the policies packaged by the bank with capacity to cushion the effects of the economic challenge, Okoroafor said 60% of

MSME development fund was meant for women and women owned enterprises noting that some have collected as much as N1 billion and N2 billion and they retail to registered co-operative members in those states in bits. Some states elected to pay the interest which is not more than 9% on behalf of the beneficiaries. That is a lot of guarantee and some are recording huge successes.

We also have the commercial Agric Credit Scheme (CACS) for larger commercial farmers.

We are for everybody.

“One of the greatest highlights this time is the youth entrepreneurship programme and that programme is for corps members who are either in service or have finished service in the last 5 years.

"This is how it works.

If you are a serving corps member and you want to get into business, you can get as much as N3 million to start as an entrepreneur. What happens is that you are not required to provide any collateral because we discovered that collateral

is the problem. Your degree or HND certificate will serve as your collateral because we know it is an asset in which you have made investment. So just surrender it and that is all.

"If you have finished up to 5 years ago, you can submit your NYSC and Degree or HND certificate and then you can take a loan. But before you do that, you have to make us a proposal. Let us know the kind of business you are doing. If we feel it is feasible, we invite and train you for 3 days and make you understand the intricacies of the business and to put your plan very well. After which we link you up with a bank. That is what we do," he said.

The bank cited its N220 billion fund made available for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), which it said could be easily accessed.

On other policies already introduced by the bank to help stabilise the nation's economy, Okoroafor said the decision of the bank to release a list of 41 items that Nigerians should stop importing to the country was

borne out of a genuine desire to take the nation's economy to the next level.

"Look at rice for instance, 28 out of 36 states in Nigeria can produce rice and so, we have launched a programme on rice called Anchor Borrowers Programme. It is not just on rice but also on tomatoes palm produce etc.

"What we are saying is this: Come to us with your proposal.

If you cannot stand alone with your collateral, form yourselves into cooperative and we are ready to work with you and state governments like we are working with Kebbi which is giving Nigeria 1 million tons of rice this year and remember this year, the Nation needs 6.1 million tons.

“If Kebbi State at its pilot stage can give us 1 million tons, Ebonyi is involved, Anambra, Cross-river, Benue, Zamfara and so on. They are all showing interest. If our farmers can be given finance like we have done to Kebbi State, Nigeria should be expecting rice in two years’ time," he said.

those in power.

“How can you postpone an election less than 48 hours to the scheduled date? What manner of security concern could prevent an election in just one state when elections were held in Northeast States that are confronted by Boko Haram insurgents?

“Obviously, this is a sign of what to come in 2019 and Nigerians should not be amazed if in 2019, they tell us that elections cannot be conducted. This is sad! It is a sad commentary for democracy in Nigeria and I only hope this Buhari’s APC government will not collapse democracy in this country.”

While calling on the people of Edo State to remain steadfast in their resolve to vote out the APC government, which has become a government of hunger, poverty, job loss, economic and political recession, insecurity and unprecedented sufferings, Fayose added: “Let them keep postponing their evil day, Edo people should just be vigilant and wait patiently for that day that they will use their votes to change the APC one-chance change.”

Wike has no links with militants, says Tam-George Also yesterday, the Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr. Austin Tam-George, has denied claims that Governor Nyesom Wike, and his Delta State counterpart, Ifeanyi Okowa, mobilised militants to rig the Edo governorship election in favour of the PDP. Tam-George, who was reacting to claims by Edo State Governor, Adams Oshiomhole, that the two governors donated N2 billion for the cause, maintained that Wike had never made such financial donation.

"Governor Wike has no links with militants in the region and anywhere else in the country. He has only given moral support to the PDP candidate in Edo State to overcome the ineptitude and dysfunction the APC imposed

on the people," he said.

The Commissioner stated that Wike would continue to give moral support to democratic forces not just in the region but across the country to bring better life to Nigerians.

Tam-George said Wike has called on the people of Edo State to ensure that whenever the election is held they should stand firm in defence of their sovereign right to vote for the PDP. European Union, British Council Sue for Peace The representatives of the European Union (EU) and the British Council have urged all stakeholders in the rescheduled gubernatorial election in Edo State to embrace peace.

Mr. Ben Jones, Political Counsel at the British High Commission and Mr. Richard Young, Deputy Head of Delegation, EU, made the appeal during a courtesy visit on the governorship candidate of the APC, Dr. Godwin Obaseki, where he called for increase in communication between the political actors, security agencies and the INEC. James said: "Our concern is that the elections on the 28th of September are peaceful, conclusive and credible. And that all the institutions, the parties, INEC, the police and other security agencies does everything they can to make sure the people of Edo can decide who the next governor would be.”

Young noted: "It is important that the people respect leadership and the leadership preaches peace. We came here to discuss the postponement of the governorship election and to make a number of appeals for the increase contact with the political parties and INEC and the police and the security agencies. They should ensure that a careful ground is laid for the election to take place smoothly and calmly on Wednesday 28th of September.

ANGLICAN PRIEST TO AMAECHI: TELL BUHARI NIGERIANS ARE SUFFERING service for late Mrs Elizabeth Nwogwugwu, the mother of THISDAY Newspaper Editor and Group Executive Director, Ijeoma Nwogwugwu.

While recognising eminent personalities at event, he turned to the Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi and appealed to him to inform the president that Nigeria is not working.

Specifically, he said: "Please tell Mr. President that things are not working, Nigerians' joy has been turned to sorrow, there is too much suffering in the land and this may lead to anarchy.

Go and tell all the politicians, all our leaders to serve Christ and to do God's will. Nigeria has been blessed with heavenly blessings. We are better than United States of America because God has blessed us with many things. We are better than United Kingdom, Japan, Paris, China, if we can harness what we have, Nigeria will be great.

"Things are not working well in this our country, the Niger Delta Avengers are here, robbers, Boko Haram and kidnappers are making life undesirable for Nigerians. Think of all other atrocities, think of all the vices, corruption in this country.”

The vicar appealed to the President to direct state governors to repair roads and fix necessary infrastructures that will make life easy for Nigerians.

The cleric also lamented the inability of some state governors to pay salaries and urge Buhari to direct the state governors to pay workers’ salaries to alleviate the poverty in the land.

While praying for Nigeria he said, "I pray to God to heal our nation Nigeria, we will celebrate Nigeria again. Don't wait for

October 1 before you celebrate Nigeria. Celebrate, pray and do good things for Nigeria everyday.

There is suffering because things are not working well. Our joy is turning to death. People are dying. Things are happening the other way.

While addressing Amaechi he said: "I know you represent the head of state. Things are not working well, so talk to the House of Assembly members, governors; you were once a governor, that they should repair our roads and give us good water.

Do good in the military and health sector and our educational sector must be done well. Those that still owe workers should pay. We can't continue like this, our land will not crash. This country will not die.

Addressing the children of the deceased on the need to draw closer to God, he said: "This woman had served God. She expects a good legacy from most of us that are present here this morning."

Dignitaries at the funeral include Chairman, Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY Newspaper and Arise TV, Mr. Nduka Obaigbena; Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi; former Delta State Governor, Emmanuel Uduaghan; Chairman, United Bank for Africa, Mr. Tony Elumelu and Chairman, Zenith Bank Plc, Jim Ovia, Also present were, former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi; former National Publicity Secretary of the People's Democratic Party (PDP), Olisa Metuh and former Abia Gubernatorial aspirant, Dr. Alex Otti.

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SEPTEMBER 10, 2016 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

RingTrue

Yemi

Adebowale

07013940521 yemi.adebowale@thisdaylive.com

Governor Okorocha Should Reflect on Ohakim’s Message

T

he “love” letter written this week to Governor Rochas Okorocha by his predecessor, Ikedi Ohakim is still generating intense debate. In the letter, Ohakim upbraided Okorocha over the “pain” inflicted on the good people of Imo State by his administration. For those who said that Ohakim was not in the position to query his successor; and those who said Ohakim could not achieve any of the things he is asking his successor to accomplish while he was governor, I will plead with them to reflect on the message and not on the messenger. I also disagree with those who said that the letter was aimed at maligning Okorocha. For me, this letter may awaken Okorocha from his slumber and ginger him into action.

The tenure of Okorocha has no doubt been horrendous. The people of this state have never had it so bad, with civil servants going without salaries for months.

Imo has become a failed state, with the state government unable to meet its basic responsibilities to the citizens. Civil servants are now walking corpses. The level of infrastructure decay in this state is frightening. Facilities in the health, education and other sectors have collapsed. This is why this “love” letter is pertinent.

Now, let us critically examine Ohakim’s letter. For me, the section where he criticised the senseless demolition of buildings in Owerri is germane. With this action, the Imo State governor has simply compounded the agony of the people. Just as Ohakim noted, the hapless people affected “were neither given adequate notice nor was compensation discussed/paid before bulldozers were sent to destroy their properties.”

Ohakim added: “I am told that some officials of your administration, to whom the people managed to have access, merely told the owners of the houses that they contravened existing regulations on location and specifications of buildings.

I also hear that they are told that all land

Okorocha

Ohakim

belongs to government and that the latter can take any land at will without giving explanations. You and I know that given the current economic situation in the country, this is the most inappropriate time to destroy the houses of people or destroy structures that house their means of livelihood without adequate alternative arrangement. Agreed, multiple lane roads are desirable but it should not be achieved by suddenly throwing hapless citizens into homelessness, joblessness and excruciating economic pains from which they may never recover.

“The state officials should be told that it is not true that government can take any land and ask the occupants to go to hell. To say such a thing in a place like Imo State is to assault the collective dignity of a people reputed as being among the most educated in the entire country. Your colleague in Ogun State attempted a similar exercise recently but met with stiff resistance and

a barrage of court cases. He quickly retreated, organized a public hearing, negotiated adequate compensation and modified the project to reduce destruction of peoples’ properties.”

The former Imo State governor also cautioned his successor against his “penchant for disobeying court rulings and orders, which has turned the state into a lawless enclave, as the people, consciously and unconsciously, tend to take a cue from their governor.”

Ohakim wrote: “There is so much unruliness in the state with government officials showing the lead. But the truth is that they are like the proverbial young goat which watches the mother while it

Still on US Congressman, Tom Marino’s Dispatch Federal government’s response to the letter written by Tom Marino, a member of the United States Congress, urging Secretary of State, John Kerry, to withhold security assistance to Nigeria was appalling. Instead of addressing issues raised by Marino, President Muhammadu Buhari’s media aides spent quality time abusing the congressman. Issues raised by Marino were valid. For example, he wants Buhari to demonstrate a commitment to inclusive government and to uphold the tenets of democracy. Buhari’s lopsided appointments and open hatred for Igbos, is a reflection of an administration not interested in inclusive government. The facts are obvious and all over our nation.

Marino, a Republican from Pennsylvania said that there were a number of warning signs emerging in the Buhari administration that signal autocratic tendencies. He wrote: “The man who once led Nigeria as a military dictator might be sliding towards former autocratic tendencies. I would urge the U.S. to withhold its security assistance to the nation until Buhari demonstrates a commitment to inclusive government and the most basic tenets of democracy - freedom to assemble and freedom of speech. A logical start towards this commitment is for the Nigerian government to hold accountable those members of the Nigerian Police Force and the Nigerian Military complicit in extra-judicial killings and war crimes.

“Human rights groups like Amnesty International have widely documented torture, inhumane treatment, and extrajudicial killings of defenceless Nigerians since President Buhari took office. In the last

six months, Nigeria’s military has unlawfully killed at least 350 people and allowed more than 168 people, including babies and children, to die in military detention.

“The Secretary to the Government of Kaduna State even admitted to burying 347 of those killed in a mass grave. And while President Buhari promised swift condemnation, his words rang empty. Instead of swift reforms, Buhari chose to reinstate Major General Ahmadu Mohammed, who Amnesty International revealed was in charge of the Nigerian military unit that executed more than 640 unarmed detainees.

“Also, in separate incidents concerning the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), the Nigerian Army has killed at least 36 – the real number is likely higher – people since December 2015 in an attempt to silence opposition and quell attempts by the group to gather publicly. Of President Buhari’s 122 appointees, 77 are from the north and control many of the key ministries and positions of power. Distrust is already high in Nigeria and favouring Northerners for key appointments has only aggravated the issue.

“Of additional concern is President Buhari’s selective anti-corruption drive, which has focused almost exclusively on members of the opposition party, over-looking corruption amongst some of Buhari’s closest advisors. Politicizing his anti-corruption efforts has only reinforced hostility among southerners.”

Clearly, we can all see that his congressman backed everything he wrote with facts and figures. Buhari and his media aides should address issues raised instead of grandstanding. This is the only way forward for our great nation.

chews cord. Your Excellency, there is a builtup anger over the way the people are being displaced from their business locations, more so as this reminds them of the indiscriminate revocation and reallocation of lands in Owerri for which several complaints have been made in the last five years. Right now, there are over 250 cases in court against the state government by the very citizens you are governing.

What an irony! When you assumed office, you adopted, curiously, the policy of awarding contracts without due process, claiming that due process is a waste of time. But at the end, problems have arisen because there is little or no record to enforce agreements even in some cases where the contractors had put in large chunks of their money.

“The ensuing disagreements led to court actions and many of the contractors are getting favourable judgement that have left the state with a total judgement debt and garnishing proceedings in excess of N7 billion. This may rise up to N50 billion in the next two years if care is not taken. Clearly, this will be a huge burden to incoming administrations and the entire state. Besides that, it makes planning difficult, even for your own administration.”

Okorocha should not take this love letter too personal. He should reflect deeply on the message and not on the messenger. The intentions of Ohakim are obviously genuine. My take away from the letter shows this. Ohakim said: “I take full cognisance of the fact that this letter to you may be misconstrued as an attempt to get even with you, or play politics for reasons that are not difficult to fathom.

It is definitely not. Let me assure you that I mean well, first because we are both faithfuls of the Body of Christ whose main message is peace and love and secondly because both of us have had the privilege of presiding over the affairs of more than four million Imo citizens with whom we share a collective destiny.”

Our ‘Deeply Divided’ Nation and UN’s Timely Warning The scary ethnic and religious division manifested in our dear Nigeria in the last 15 months is indeed unprecedented. Something similar to this was only experienced during the days leading up to the civil war. The alarm raised recently by a United Nations report, drawing attention to this malaise should serve as a wake-up call to genuine patriots to call the Buhari administration to order, in order to pull back our dear nation from the precipice.

The UN report on Nigeria’s Common Country Analysis (CCA), (though, not limited to the Buhari era alone) revealed a deeply alienated society based on the plurality of ethnic, religious and regional identities.

The report observed that, for decades, different segments of Nigeria’s population had at different times expressed feelings of marginalisation, of being short-changed, oppressed, threatened, dominated, or even targeted for elimination. The truth that must be told is that this division was greatly escalated in the last 15 months because of a number of actions and inactions of the Buhari administration, particularly his lopsided appointments.

Also recently, former President, Olusegun Obasanjo expressed concern about the continued threats of disintegration resulting from the activities of various armed groups

in different parts of the country, noting that aside the 30-month civil war period; Nigeria has never been as divided in history as it is presently. While criticising those calling for the breakup of Nigeria, Obasanjo lamented that the activities of the Niger-Delta Avengers, NDA, Boko Haram terrorists and Fulani herdsmen had fractured the country.

The former president said, “At no time in our history, except probably during the civil war, has Nigeria been so fractured in the feeling of oneness by the citizenry. In the last four months, we have an average of twenty hotspots across the country with huge potential for national disintegration.

Our strength as a nation lies in our unity and national cohesion.”

Genuine patriots must rise up and start preaching the gospel of unity in diversity and unity of purpose/cohesion. Our dear President Buhari must also be forced by patriots to always look at the map of Nigeria closely before making appointments. He must also take steps to reverse all lopsided appointments made by his administration, particularly in the ministries of defence and Internal Affairs. Buhari must operate as a father to all Nigerians. I am convinced that this nation will become great as one. May Allah continue to bless beautiful Nigeria.

The Edo Gubernatorial Election Charade The squabble involving INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu and the police/DSS over the postponement of the Edo State Gubernatorial election is a big threat to our democracy. Yakubu could not see any of the security threats claimed by the security agents and decided he would go ahead with the Edo poll. The police/DSS had to armtwist INEC to stop the election scheduled for today. When the INEC boss was proving

stubborn, the NYSC boss, Brigadier General Sule Kazaure was brought in to scuttle his plan. The NYSC boss threatened not to make corpers available for the poll; so, Yakubu had to budge. One thing is certain in this drama: some people engineered this postponement for fear of losing. The incumbent government in this state is the key suspect. I am very sure that they have only postponed their defeat. It will certainly come.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

SUPER SATURDAY Titi Oseni

I Was Determined to Succeed as Ogun State First Female Speaker Ogun State’s first female House of Assembly Speaker, Mrs. Titi Oseni, is a delight to every observer and listener – both in beauty and brain. She exudes the essence of a capable woman and leader in a world usually dominated by men. She’s gorgeous, graceful and gregarious. With a taste for fashion and good living, she smacks of simplicity and humility. In her 50s, she feels life has dealt well with her. As Ogun State House of Assembly Speaker between 2003 and 2008, she said it takes dedication and interpersonal relations skills to deal with all and sundry – especially her all-male co-lawmakers. In this interview with Femi Ogbonnikan, the former Speaker reveals what helped her to succeed. Her challenges in the legislative chamber and how she was recruited into politics. She also talks about her parents’ influence on her life

I Love to Take Care of My Body – That’s Why I Glow

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an you tell us about your background?

I was born in 1964, into the family of Sodunke, from Kenta, Okebode, in Abeokuta, Abeokuta South Local Government Area of Ogun State. I attended Trinity Nursery and Primary School, Abeokuta and I later proceeded to the famous Abeokuta Grammar School, from 1975 to 1980.

Subsequently, I went abroad and graduated from Upsala University, in the United States of America. I have a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. I worked with various companies abroad, like Ford Motor Credit, AT&T telecommunications, and later got married in 1991. I have three children.

I came back to Nigeria in 1996 and started my business in Nigeria. I was into computer accessories. I also have a fashion store – a clothing store in Nigeria. And in 2002, I joined politics. I joined PDP and later, I contested for the House of Assembly seat. I won and I became the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly in 2003. And in 2007, I contested again, won and I became the Speaker. I have a national honour, MFR. I became the first female Speaker in the SouthWest, the first in Ogun State and I was the first person to receive the national honour as the State House of Assembly Speaker. I was removed in 2008, and I left when my tenure ended in 2011. Ever since then, I have been into business. I have various interests in different businesses.

Were you from a noble family in Abeokuta?

No; I will not say I am from a famous family, but I am from an average family. My parents were into the medical fields. My mother had a maternity home in Abeokuta that was quite famous. It was just an average family setting. We were comfortable, at least, we could afford, to the glory of God, three square meals, and an average size family.

With your beauty, how were you able to cope with overtures from?

Well, it is normal for every human being, I would say, to be wooed by men. I don’t see anything special, but I believe that once you are good-looking, and you know how to look after yourself very well and take care of yourself, then you will become attractive to everyone, including the opposite sex. And you just have to know how to handle situations when things like that happen or when you are being approached, especially when you already have someone you are dating and there is no point encouraging another relationship, unless you are tired and you want to get out of that relationship. So, it is something you can’t take sway from. But my take is that, you have to know how to handle yourself as a woman.

Oseni

At 50, you still look radiant; how have you been able to maintain your beauty?

Well, I don’t stress myself, especially after my time in the state House of Assembly. I take things easy. My leadership position in House gave me a leverage to deal with any challenge. I have learnt to be able to more

in control of my emotions. People would get upset over things that would not bother me, because I believe, in politics, we have been through all sorts. A small boy would insult you; elders and people on the streets would insult you. Once you have passed through that stage, you have developed a thick skin. You have that skin that is very difficult to penetrate. I won’t say or call it a carefree attitude. Before anybody can hurt your emotions, it would take some time.

Once you are somebody like that, your mind is free of stress; you will take life easy, one day, at a time. I believe that if you are going after something and you can’t get it, then, number one, it is either you have the will of God, or the time, purpose and chances, to do it are not right. Or maybe God has not got the time to attend to your case.

In all circumstances, you can only wait and believe that things would come at the right time for you. Once you have that at the back of your mind, it will take away all the worries and stress, because I believe that stress makes you get old. If you worry too much and you stress yourself too much, of course, you will age quickly. To the glory of God, everything falls in the right places for you. My children are doing very, very well and business, even though slow now, but to the glory of God, God has been faithful and being kind to me, there is no way to stress myself. All one needs to do is to take all the right medications, like you are supposed to take your vitamins, shower twice a day, use the right moisturisers for your skin and, then you are free to glow.

When you returned to Nigeria after your sojourn abroad, you started out as a businesswoman, why did you go into partisan politics?

When I came back, I lost my father and I happened to be frequenting Abeokuta for his burial plans and all that. And after that, I also lost my mother, I think about three or four months later, and I happened to be visiting Abeokuta often for the burial preparations. So, there was a day, I was at Gateway Hotel, Abeokuta, and I met some people. They came for the PDP programme and it was quite noisy with a lot of people.

And I saw family members that I know and I asked them why there was so much noise at the gathering and all that. It was PDP convention or congress and they used the Gateway Hotel. So, I was approached by the family members to join, and of course, I turned it down, because of the crowd and the noise. Later, they came back to encourage me to participate in politics and after some persuasion I was interested. I now scheduled a meeting and went to meet the chairman of my local government, at that time. I was received gladly with a rousing welcome. Being the only female, it looks at that time in 2002, there was no female contesting for any office in Ogun State. Being the only female and the name of my family worked for me. If you can’t add value to the name that you are given or your family name, don’t destroy it. I saw that my father’s name and my mother’s name worked well for me, because somebody coming with no political background, of course, a lot

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

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SUPER SATURDAY It Wasn’t Easy Being Speaker of 25-Man House of Assembly...

Well,itisnormalforevery humanbeing,Iwouldsay, tobewooedbymen.Idon’t seeanythingspecial,butI believethatonceyouare good-looking,andyou knowhowtolookafter yourselfverywellandtake careofyourself,thenyou willbecomeattractiveto everyone,includingthe oppositesex.Andyou justhavetoknowhowto handlesituationswhen thingslikethathappen orwhenyouarebeing approached,especially whenyoualreadyhave someoneyouaredating andthereisnopoint encouraginganother with men, 25 of them, of various shades and relationship,unlessyouare colours, coming from different backgrounds, coming from different experiences of life; they tiredandyouwanttoget are all husbands and heads of households in their own, for them to now succumb to the outofthatrelationship. leadership of a woman, some of them found it very difficult to deal with at that time. Being So,itissomethingyou the Speaker, once I entered the chambers, they must rise up, they must get up and they must can’ttakeswayfrom.But bow. So, it became a problem for one, two, three, four, five people in the House, but they mytakeisthat,youhave later adjusted. By the time they met me later, by the time I spoke with them, they saw the toknowhowtohandle humility in me. Also, a lot of them had worked for women before. Women had been their yourselfasawoman bosses in their various fields of life. So, various

Titi at her daughter’s graduation of people will want to know who you are and where you are coming from. And my last name is Oseni and of course, people would tell you that Oseni is not a name from Abeokuta and so, I had to use my maiden name to complement it. When you mention my name and my parent’s name, everybody would say my parents had done one thing or another, especially my mother that owned a maternity home. She had done one thing or another for a lot of families in my area.

So, before my name was even mentioned, once they mentioned Sodunke, Omo Mama Rere, everybody is like ‘We can trust this one; we can rely on her. This one would come back home. We know where she is from.

She has a tie. She has a bond. We know her family background and we can actually run to her and we would find her.’ The acceptability was very high and I am happy and proud. That is why I always make sure that, on a yearly basis, I remember my parents, because the good name they left, worked well for me in many aspects of life. When I became the Speaker, I realised that I was also the only female member out of the 26 members of the Ogun State House of Assembly.

So, it was zoned, because the governor was from the East and the Deputy Governor was from the West, and, automatically the Speaker would come from the Central.

So, we had about eight members from the Central Senatorial Districts, and I happened to be the only female. The Speakership position was zoned to my senatorial district, and it was further zoned to my local government. In my local government, we had two constituencies and we had two members and so, it was keenly contested between the two of us and I won at the end of the day.

What exactly did you do that earned you the position?

Well, before we were sworn in, as members of the House, we were taken through some training programmes. We had a retreat, and we had people from outside.

I don’t know how former Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, arranged it. But during the programme, we were asked to speak and discuss why we were at the retreat and where we were coming from, and our plans for our constituencies.

So, we had a panel and the panel scored us, but later, I realised that, I think, I scored first or second in that retreat. I think, the person that scored the highest could not be Speaker,

because the zoning formula was applied.

And being the second person and since it favoured me, because I am from that (Ogun Central) senatorial district, could have been the only thing that decided it. We all saw the result and I know, I was either in the first or second position, and I became the Speaker. I think the person that scored second became my Deputy.

What was it like being in the saddle?

It was not easy. Back then, it was not easy at all. But to the glory of God, I was able to surmount whatever challenges that came my way. First and foremost, dealing

instances had come to play, but by the time we gathered together and I addressed them, I rubbed their ego, worked on their emotions and the grace of God was also there for me.

Everything worked well.

I realised that along the line we became best of friends and they called me their mother, their sister, friend; keeping in mind that we were all the same. We were all elected the same day, but the only common saying that I used for them in Yoruba dialect was that, ‘Aparo kan ko gaju Aparo kan lo, ayafi eyi ti o ba gun ori ebe’ (We were all equal in the hands of God; as honourable members we were all equal).

And it was just their votes that gave me an edge over them and without that I would not have been the Speaker. I had an open-door policy; I was never too busy to attend to them.

I was never too busy to step into situations for them, defend them or fight for them, if I had to. If they had an event or function and they wanted me to attend or they wanted me to do one thing or another, I was never too busy to be there for them. I had never been found wanting. I was always there. I was always a step ahead of them in debating bills. I made sure that I was the first person to get to the office and I was the last to leave. I made sure that any issue that we had to deliberate on I would have studied it in advance.

When you wanted to join partisan politics, did any of your relatives object?

Nobody in my family objected; everybody supported me. But I used to say that if my mother was alive, she probably would not have allowed me to join politics. She was more of a quiet person. She was so immersed in her professional work. She would buy into anything that would bring publicity her publicity.

And, she was very protective of her children.

And you know, like everybody says, politics is

dirty; she would not have allowed.

What was first day in the legislative chamber like as the Speaker of the House? Were you nervous?

Well, of course, I didn’t know too much about what it entailed, but I had the opportunity of going to the office of Senator Olorunnimbe Mamowora, the then Speaker of Lagos State House of Assembly. When it dawned on me that I would either be the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker, at that time, I sought audience with him and he allowed me to come into the chambers of Lagos House of Assembly to watch the proceedings in a bid to prepare for the tasks ahead. He shared ideas with me on how to be a responsible and successful Speaker. At the end of his several discussions with me, he said, ‘You can do it.’ What he saw in me, I didn’t know, but he encouraged me. When it comes to responsibility and I will do something, there is no turning back. I will give it a shot. I will put in my best – which I did as the Speaker; there was no point shying away. Once you find yourself in a position of responsibility, the first thing is prayer and the second thing is commitment. I was willing and ready to do that, and the next thing was working with people. Once you have the acceptability of the people, even if you don’t have all of them, gradually by the time they see what you have done, by the time they see your leadership style and I am sure about this, everybody will work together with you and support you. And that was exactly what happened in my case.

SomeMembersoftheHouseWerenotWilling toBowDowntoMeasFemaleSpeaker

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SEPTEMBER 10, 2016• THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

COMMENTARY

The Symbolism Of Zuckerberg’s Walk On Water

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Mark’s visit validates the right to dream, writes Simbo Olorunfemi

So, what do you really do?”Anyone whose job specification or professional practice has anything to do with delivering the intangible to clients for a living, must be familiar with that question. Often, at the point of remuneration for service rendered, one is confronted with the cynical question – What did you really do?

Were you the one who carried the block by yourself? Did you not just ask questions as you held your stethoscope, read some test results and scribble some prescription on a piece of paper? Is that not all or what else did you do? Why would we have to pay this much for a job done within a few hours or for some professional advice offered?

It might not be peculiarly Nigerian, but it seems so native to us that its hand can be felt all around us. It is to be seen in the disrespect for intellectual exertion, a disregard for the time and input of the professional. It lies in that cynical disposition towards creativity and a shabby treatment of its fruits. After all, anybody can write. Anyone can sing or draw. What does it take to code?

Anyone can sketch. Who is it there that cannot draft or vet an agreement? What is the big deal?

That is why we have scant regard for software and venerate hardware, while paying little attention to the thought and controls embedded in the software that drives it. That is why we take to plagiarism without pretence to any form of shame. That is why we effortlessly take to piracy. We have no respect for intellectual work to respect that property rights can apply to creative exertion. That is just how we see it.

It is always all about the external – the hardware. We are easily taken by the casing, enamoured with the facade, hardly ever bothered or as keen on the substance. The bigger they come, the easier we fall. It is all about padding. The special effects grab us by the mind and our pockets. It shuts down our more important senses, leads us into temptation in every realm, only to hand over to us the handkerchief to wipe the tears that come thereafter.

So, when Mark Zuckerberg wades through the little pool of water in Yaba, we salivate. We do not see a human being, simply achieving purpose, we see money. We do not see the power of ideas at work. We see the billions and gawk. We do not see the challenge he throws at us. We are obsessed with the inanities.

We see the man jog, but we lose the symbolism of it. We take to debating the presence or not of body guards and drones. We even managed to bring in that bit about his wife, carried away on the wings of our penchant for the banal. We trivialise what we need to cherish. We go physical when we desperately need to get mental.

We lose the sense of moment to appropriately mine from a major endorsement of a city and people much maligned.

It is always about the physical for us – the size of our house, car, phone, office, luggage, land, population. It is always about the size of everything and anything. Even the shape and size of the midriff and posterior seem to matter to us, these days. We are so easily moved by the little things and hardly moved by the things that should or do matter. What about us paying greater attention to the size of our thought, dreams and vision? What about questioning the size of our determination to break this vicious cycle that has overtaken us, leading us nowhere?

Or could it be that this is a major reason why we are where we are today? Could it be that this is who we truly are or have become? How much of respect and acknowledgement do we have for thought, creativity and strategy in driving national development and fostering nation-building? How much thought and rigour goes into the processes of governance? How accommodating is the system we run for thinkers, strategists and creatives in fashioning a way out of this hole we are stuck in?

Two decades back, when private entities made their entry into broadcasting, I cautioned some of the pioneers on the primacy they seemed to be placing on hardware acquisition at the detriment of quality software. It was to let them know that even as the quality of equipment does matter, content would always be the primary driver for relevance and sustainability. It only took a while for the one with an understanding of that philosophy, even while on

WHAT ZUCKERBERG HAS DONE IN WADING THROUGH WATER TO VISIT DREAMERS AND DEVELOPERS STRIVING, WITH LITTLE SUPPORT, FOR SOLUTIONS IN TECHNOLOGY TO THE PROBLEMS THAT CONFRONT OUR EVERYDAY LIVING, IS TO VALIDATE THEIR AUDACITY

a shoe-string budget, to outclass that which placed emphasis on national spread and the acquisition of equipment, in disregard of quality content and presentation. That many of them chose to embrace the philosophy in reverse only speaks to our emphasis on the material over the mental.

That was why when, last year, some commentators chorused in support of the Kogi Senator about payment due to one of Nigeria’s, SystemSpecs, for services rendered via its REMITA platform to the federal government in facilitating the Treasury Single Account (TSA), some of us felt concerned at the query, largely raised out of ignorance. As long as there is transparency in the procedure for the acquisition of software and there is an agreement validly executed, a creative/tech entrepreneur ought not to be barred from benefiting from its foresight, creativity and investment. For if as the potential benefit of an invention or innovation becomes apparent to all, gatekeepers rise to whittle down the benefits to the rights holder, there would be no Microsoft or Oracle, in the form it is today. We will definitely not have Bill Gates, Larry Ellison or Mark Zuckerberg.

For many years, a number of Nigerian software developers, especially of the older generation, have toiled in obscurity. They have coded in anonymity with everything about Nigeria – policy, patronage, the body language of government and people – drunk on oil, paying little attention to them and a sector with so much potential. It is only in the last decade that the internet has enabled dreams built on the back of technology to come true. Interswitch, eTranzact have begun to find their places in other parts of Africa.

IrokoTV, Jobberman are latter day stories, along with popular e-commerce platforms like Konga. Many of these ventures have drawn in the much sought after foreign capital, even as they played largely below the radar of the government, which seems hampered by a limited knowledge how the new economy plays out. Many might not know it, but there have been some considerable interest, for a while, in the emerging technology space in Nigeria. Venture Capitalists and Angel Investors (local and foreign) have put seed and early-stage funding in a number of start-ups. So much is happening at such a rapid pace that only two months after the celebrated 24 million dollar investment by Mark Zuckerberg’s foundation into Andela, in which Nigeria’s Iyinoluwa Aboyeji is co-Founder, Iyin has left Andela to concentrate fully on Flutterwave, a payments company operating in Nigeria and Ghana, which provides on-demand access to modern cloud-based payment technology. The company is said to have processed about $20 million in transactions in only a few months of operations.

Such is the promise and level of activities going on silently in the Tech Space. Lest we get it mixed up, Mark Zuckerberg is not the first to see the potential there. What is baffling is that the government, over the years, has not been able to respond much more appropriately by, at least, enabling the setting-up of a fund, placed in private hands for management, to disburse seed capital and make early stage investments. Aso Villa Demo Day has its place but it might not be as effective as it could be, if it had been left to the private sector to manage. Reports on what transpired at the event last week is difficult to come by, but a reported grant of N3.5 million for three of the 30 finalists only amounts to a scratch on the surface, just as a uniform grant for the start-ups, if true, irrespective of the peculiarities and demands of each, is strange.

What Zuckerberg has done in wading through water to visit dreamers and developers striving, with little support, for solutions in technology to the problems that confront our everyday living, is to validate their audacity. Hopefully, it draws the necessary attention to the tireless work and determination of many of our young men and women developing applications, teaming up to found start-ups, investing their blood and sweat in ventures, looking for seed capital and validation, hoping to catch the attention of Angel Investors and venture capitalists.

Olorunfemi works for Hoofbeatdotcom, a Nigerian Communications Consultancy and publisher of Africa Enterprise

THE LONG AWAITED MESSIAH

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igeria and its people can no longer depend on the good will or integrity of politicians, no matter who they are or what they have done. We must now develop systems and processes that incentivise and reward good governance, whilst simultaneously ensuring the sanctioning of indolence, poor governance and plain folly.

We have waited and waited for the Nigerian messiah, the man to come and destroy corruption, instill good governance, create jobs, defeat terror and criminality and turn Nigeria into Dubai, through his sheer will, strength of character and magical powers. My compatriots, we have waited, we have dreamt, it is time to wake up and build the systems that will permit such a messiah to emerge.

We have tarried long at this mountain and we have made little progress. The wait

Ugochukwu Amasike argues true federalism will do the country much good has now assumed a new dimension with some Nigerians and erstwhile fans of our current and beloved President becoming disillusioned by the current economic climate.

As a friend put it, “we are now back in the market” - shopping for another or perhaps, the true messiah that is to come.

I must confess that I also do hope and wait for this Nigerian messiah; it is after all in the nature of men to dream, but may I humbly suggest that whilst we wait for the arrival of the Nigerian messiah, that we begin to work, ie: re-balance and re-calibrate our political-economic architecture in order to provide for ourselves and children a better bargain.

It is written that “Wisdom is profitable to direct” and it is also said that “Wisdom is justified of her children”. We have practiced this current unitary system for decades, we know how far we have come practising it.

We have seen it’s children and we know what it has cost us in terms of social cohesion, political and economic development.

My fellow compatriots it is time to re-calibrate, re-balance, and yes Restructure Nigeria on just and equitable terms. The truth is that the inequities in our country are the root cause of all the problems we are facing in Nigeria. We cannot implement a system of manifest injustice and expect that we will make progress. A system that rewards indolence, a system that more or less encourages and rewards dependency will fail.

Fellow compatriots, we need to adopt federalism, and please federalism is not “Resource Control”. It is way more than that. Federalism is a system that caters to the aspirations of all ethnic groups within a country, thus reducing or eliminating ethno-religious rancour.

Federalism is in fact a system of accommodation that fosters and ensures unity of purpose amongst a people. It is also a system that ensures the freedom and ability of the federating units within a federation to leverage on their unity, whilst concomitantly maximising their comparative advantages to advance the economic well-being of their people and of the country by extension.

It is humbly submitted that federalism is that messiah we have been waiting for. It will transform our country for good, it will unleash our potential. To fight the adoption and practice of federalism is to assault our future and continue to hinder ourselves.

We cannot continue to fast and pray and shop for a messiah every four years, we must help ourselves. We have all to gain and nothing to lose from the adoption and practice of federalism.

Amasike, a lawyer, wrote from Lagos

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SEPTEMBER 10, 2016 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

INSIGHT

Happy Sallah...

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Lagos, PPP Model and Water Supply

Water Supply Master Plan (2010 – 2020) is the construction of ongoing Adiyan amous English Poet, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, in his 1798 famous work, ‘The phase II with design capacity of 70 million gallons per day and Odomola phase I of Rhyme of the Ancient Mariner’ fittingly defines the global water conditions: 100 million gallons per/day to complement current production and fill the demand “Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink”. gap when completed in 2020.

Nigeria is classified a water–short country, whose water resource is likely Part of the state government’s long term plan is also to encourage private sector to reduce from 2, 506 cubic meters per year in 1995 to 1, 175 cubic meters in 2025, participation (PPP) in the water sector. This explains why it is investing heavily in if not properly managed. The reality is that access to safe drinking water is not too the sector in order to make it attractive to private investors who will subsequently encouraging in many households in the country. Responsibility for water supply device creative strategies that will make the sector suitable for investment. It has is shared between three levels of government – federal, state and local. The federal been realised by governments world-wide that funding of government programmes government is in charge of water resources management; state governments have and projects can no longer be sustained by the government alone as evidenced in the primary responsibility for urban water supply; and local governments together the global economic recession and decline in oil revenue. with communities are responsible for rural water supply.

Public-Private Partnership (PPP) is a contractual relationship between the Presently, Nigeria is not on track to reach the Millennium Development Goal for private and public sectors as a systematic collaboration geared towards ensuring water and sanitation. The country’s MDG target of supplying 74 per cent of the communal, state or national socio-economic development that is comprehensive population with safe water by 2015 was far-fetched. With slow pace of progress, and self-sustaining. It is an arrangement with clear direction and defined roles and Nigeria might miss the water target even by 20 years. It is important to stress that responsibilities of all the actors in the plan. PPP is a financial module designed to UNICEF has supported rural water supply, sanitation and hygiene in communities attract private investors to engage in infrastructural projects with short and long and schools across the country since 2002. Its interventions have been financed term benefits to the people. It is not entirely profit driven initiative as it is erroneby DFID and the European Commission. A total of 6,960 new safe water sources (boreholes dug wells and protected springs) and over 19,100 household latrines ously believed by some critics. have been constructed. Over 400 schools have been provided with latrines with In adopting this strategy, government is not abdicating its responsibilities but separate provision for boys and girls and hand washing facilities. essentially releasing scarce resources for other equally important projects thus In Lagos State, the water situation is quite challenging. The state is popularly creating a win-win situation for the government and the private enterprise as referred to as the ‘State of Aquatic Splendor’, an obvious reference to the presence well. The major advantage of the involvement of the private sector in governance of diverse bodies of water that surrounds it. On the account of this, non-Lagosians is the efficiency it brings to project management. The issue of wastes, delayed often think that Lagos residents have un-hindered access to potable water supply. delivery and abandonment that is usually associated with public projects is highly This, of course, is not entirely true as Lagos, like minimised. This is as a result of every other cosmopolitan city, has to contend the optimisation of the returns with various challenges in respect of access to safe on huge investment of the T H E S AT U R DAY N E W S PA P E R water. private sector.

EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU Over the years, the state government has In Africa, PPP model in water DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO invested heavily in the water sector. The Lagos supply could be traced to 1959 DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE water programme which is anchored on 15 with the implementation of the CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI year expansion programme is not limited to the Cote d’Ivoire urban water AfEDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN urban areas alone as it is the desire of the state fermage – a successful operation government to ensure that every part of the state that continues to provide water has unrestricted access to potable water supply. to over seven million people The project entails expanding water supply today. In Ghana, the private facilities, transmission and distribution systems, sector is equally involved T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D rehabilitation of existing, improved administrative in urban and small-town EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA infrastructure and institutional support. water provision as government GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, EMMANUEL EFENI, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU The first phase of the project, coordinated by strives to improve access to GROUP FINANCE DIRECTOR OLUFEMI ABOROWA the Lagos Water Corporation, (LWC) involved the water supply services for its DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS PETER IWEGBU, FIDELIS ELEMA, construction of 45 mini and micro waterworks citizens in line with sustainable MBAYILAN ANDOAKA, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE that have the capacity of producing 91 million development goals. Similarly, DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI gallons per day across various parts of the state between 2001 and 2013, in Niger SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH to improve accessibility. The completion of these Republic, the PPP model has ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS HENRY NWACHOKOR, SAHEED ADEYEMO CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA mini and micro waterworks, aside enhancing equally improved access to MOSERI output and improving water distribution channels potable water supply. In Nigeria, GENERAL MANAGER PATRICK EIMIUHI in the state, has also reduced the untold hardship many state governments have GROUP HEAD FEMI TOLUFASHE experienced by Lagosians while searching for equally opted for the PPP model ART DIRECTOR OCHI OGBUAKU II water. Presently, Adiyan, Iju, Isashi and Otta-Ikosi in water supply.

DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO waterworks have the capacity to produce 119 Tayo Ogunbiyi, Ministry of TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com million gallons daily, if fully operational. However, Information and Strategy, as part of the long-term plan of the state, the Lagos Alausa, Lagos

The Rising Cost of Rams

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igh cost of living is a source of worry to many families as the Eid-el- Kabir, popular known as big Sallah, commences next week Monday.

Many homes would find it difficult to meet their needs this time, particularly in procuring rams to celebrate this Muslim festival. Hence the desire of the average Nigerian Muslim to look up to other means to augment in this season of hardship.

It’s a welcome idea that some states promise to pay September salaries to make it easy for Muslims to buy rams. Other states should emulate such states and bring some relief to many Muslims across the country.

The present economic realities in the country have adverse effect on the entire pockets of many Nigerians, irrespective of religion. Every home is feeling the pinch.

We equally call on the traders who sell rams to take into account the pains of ordinary Nigerians and not to inflict more hardship by increasing the price of rams in their stable.

The present government of President Muhammadu Buhari should ensure the pains Nigerians are passing through are reduced with some palliative measures like increase in wages of income to workers.

Bala Nayashi, Lokoja

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

NEWS

News Editor Ahamefula Ogbu 08116759810 (sms only) Email ahamefula.ogbu@thisdaylive.com

Buhari not Interested in Peaceful Resolution of N’Delta Crises, Say Ethnic Nationalities INC warns Buhari not to treat N’Delta militants like Boko Haram ErnestChinwoinPortHarcourt, SholaOyeyipo and Olawale AjimotokaninAbuja A coalition of ethnic nationalities in the Niger Delta region, the United Niger Delta Energy Development Security Strategy (UNDEDSS), has alleged that President Muhammadu Buhari is not prepared for a peaceful resolution of the Niger Delta crisis.

This is as the umbrella sociocultural organisation of the Ijaw ethnic nationality, Ijaw National Congress (INC), has asked President Muhammad Buhari not to heed calls by some groups and individuals for the Federal Government to treat Niger Delta militants like the Boko Haram.

Also, Information and Culture Minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has pleaded that recourse to violence was not a panacea to the festering Niger Delta issue. He appealed to those disenchanted with the plight of the region to embrace peace as a means of seeking redress.

The allegation by UNDEDSS is contained in press statement issued and signed by its Secretary General, Tony Iprinye Uranta, after the coalition’s emergency National Working Committee (NWC) meeting held in Akure, Ondo State capital, yesterday, noted that “The FGN is insincere about desiring to end the Niger Delta imbroglio peacefully and expeditiously!"

According to the group, “The increasingly excessive and antipeople attempts by the Federal Government of Nigeria to seemingly intimidate and coerce the peoples of the Niger Delta, via military harassment, into submitting to what is perceived as an attempt to openly steal its resources and rights, worries all right-thinking people of the world, especially since all this is at a time that the Chief Edwin Clark-led pan-Niger Delta group has succeeded in getting the armed agitators to cease fire unilaterally and express their collective readiness to embrace dialogue”.

While calling watchers from

around the world to note that the armed agitators had kept faith with their ceasefire, and that the creeks of the Niger Delta were now relatively at peace, except for the activities of the Nigerian military, Uranta stated that: “We do not understand how any peace-intent government would waste weeks before accepting any olive branch that would help free all Nigerians from the present nationwide economic hardship being suffered, when we can trace dwindling government revenues, power instabilities and mass impoverishment directly to the ongoing imbroglio in our region.

“Would we blame the men in the creeks if they lose confidence in the FGN’s sincerity”, Uranta wondred and went further to claim that “the delay in the FGN responding to these positive peace moves from the region as a whole, is making many lose faith in the sincerity of this Administration to see Nigeria as its constituency; and has again resurrected the bogey of a virtual 97-5 per cent dichotomy which Mr. President appears not to have progressively renewed his mind on.”

UNDEDSS affirmed its confidence in the Clark group’s ability to find a lasting solution to the crisis and insisted that that federal government needed to work in line with late president Umar Yar’ Adua framework to resolve the problems in the region.

“We want the world to know that there appears to be a myopic hawkish agenda at play within FGN leadership circles, we unconditionally reiterate our 100 per cent confidence in the Chief Clark-led pan-Niger Delta Group; we strongly reiterate our position that only a sincere embracing of the 2009 Yar’Adua Niger Delta/National Peace template can comprehensively and sustainably bring this impasse to an end, once and for all.

“We unequivocally condemn harassment of innocent citizens and communities under the guise of a thinly-disguised military offensive,

REORGANISING AIRPORTS...

L-R: Capt. Mukhtar Usman, DG, NCAA & Umar; Sen. Hadi Sirika, Minister of State Aviation and Sabiu Zakari, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Transportation during inauguration of airport concessioning committee yesterday in Abula aka aptly as ‘Operation Crocodile Smile’; we urgently call on all international observers to keep keen watch on the FGN and the Niger Delta; we advise President Buhari to show that he really is president of all Nigerians, and begin demonstrating true positive change that begins with him doing the right things at all times; and, we call on him to urgently issue a presidential position embracing the peace overtures from the Niger Delta armed agitators, and summoning all to a negotiation table, so as to more help speedily ameliorate the hardship currently bedeviling most Nigerians nationwide”, the group urged.

The INC however restated their commitment to one indivisible Nigeria. Addressing journalists in Port Harcourt yesterday, the President

of the INC, Boma Obuoforibo, said the demand for equity, fairness and justice by Niger Delta youths could not be equated to terrorism.

His words: “The Niger Delta youths demand for equity, fairness and justice is not terrorism and cannot be likened to the activities of Boko Haram that has killed and maimed thousands of Nigerians, kidnapped and raped several innocent women and girls, brought about untold hardship on thousands of Nigerians making them refugees in their own country.

“Besides, the world knows the sympathetic issues at stake in the Niger Delta and would always support the demanded equity, fair play and justice to a people facing annihilation. What is Boko Haram fighting for? Why is Boko Haram seizing territories?

That they do not want western education? And what has the likes of Professor Ango Abdullahi done all these years to assuage the Boko Haram combatants to end their activities?

He said the crisis in the Niger Delta had lingered because of insincerity on the part of successive governments and operators of the oil sector, adding that various intervention agencies set up by government had not lived up to expectation.

Obuoforibo also berated those who claim that a lot of resources had been invested in the Niger Delta region.

“Some uninformed neophytes in the corridor of power have sensationally publicised that over 40 billion dollars have gone to the Niger Delta region without

visible impact. Disappointingly, the evaluation did not indicate how much money was produced and derived from the region all these years to develop the federal capital territory, the cities of Lagos, Kano, Kaduna and indeed the sustenance of the rest of the nation”, he said.

He therefore called on Buhari to disregard calls for military action in the region but rather withdraw the military from the region.

“We call on President Muhammadu Buhari to disregard the calls for military campaign against the restive youths as peaceful discourse remains the best option in resolving the issues in the Niger Delta especially now that the boys have heeded the wise counsel of elders and leaders within and outside the region, and are embracing the offer of dialogue with the government.

Lagos Beefs up Security for Sallah

FG Explains Flooding of Lagos-Ibadan Expressway

Chinenye Nduka

Uju Ifedioranma

The Lagos State Government on has said adequate preparations had been put in place toward ensuring hitch-free celebration of this year's Eid-elKabir, disclosing that security personnel had been mobilised to be at strategic places such as praying grounds, amusement parks, malls, among others.

Rising from the monthly Security Council Meeting chaired by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode and attended by heads of all security agencies in the State, the government said security agencies had been alerted to be in strategic places before, during and after the celebration to nip any potential security situation in the bud.

While briefing Government

House Correspondents at the end of the meeting, the State's Commissioner of Police, Mr. Fatai Owoseni said the Council appraised the security strategies already put in place for the celebration and members were satisfied with the solid arrangement towards a successful celebration.

"We looked at all the strategies that have been put in place by all the security agencies and the support that the State Government is giving us and we are satisfied that we are well prepared to ensure that residents of Lagos have hitchfree holiday period and that the Muslim brothers and sisters also have a successful and hitch-free Eid-el-Kabir holiday.

"Security agencies will be at all the strategic places including

the Eid-el-Kabir praying ground, amusement parks and the malls so that by the time we are ending the holiday and the Sallah is finished, everybody will be happy to say that it is another successful holiday and it is another successful Eid-el-Kabir celebration", he assured.

Besides, Owoseni debunked conflicting media reports on the casualties at the mayhem between House and Fulani communities in Agege Abattoir area of the State, saying that only one person was unfortunately killed during the crisis.

He said security agencies responded swiftly to douse the tension, adding that the mayhem was purely an issue of miscreants and criminal elements wanting to make life more difficult for the people.

The Federal Government Friday explained that the flooding on portions of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway was caused by structures built on water channels by some companies along the road even as it has directed the contractor handling the flooded portion to provide more palliatives to ameliorate the difficulties caused to motorists by the development.

In a statement explaining the cause of the flooding at a portion of the road opposite the Mountain Top University (MFM) in Ogun State where construction is currently ongoing, the Government said the structures blocking the channels included those

built by Hi-Impact Hotel and Parks and Buildwell Plants and Equipment Company as well as various Warehouses.

It said the flooding at the portion became severe because the various structures built along the road had blocked the water channels through which runoffs were to flow away from the road, adding that the water retention spot of the whole area had been blocked off by building on the wet zones.

The Statement explained that these locations which were now built up, were the drainage basins where surface runoff was directed when the road was built about 40 years ago.

According to the statement, the flooding had also been

accentuated by the fact that some of the communities in the area discharged their runoffs to the road where drains were yet to be provided adding that the rains had also been unusually heavy in the past few days, thereby undermining the palliative efforts recently done by the contractor.

Meanwhile, the contractor has been directed by the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN to carry out more palliative works to reduce the effect of the flooding while appealing for patience and understanding among motorists and other road users as rehabilitation and reconstruction work on the Expressway progresses.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

POLSCOPE

with Eddy Odivwri eddy.odivwri@thisdaylive.com 08053069356

Does Bayo Onanuga Live Amongst Us?

T

he joke is often cracked about a certain fiery democracy activist in the military days who was indeed a thorn in the flesh of government and pro-government characters. The said activist was so unsparing of government and its foibles that he became “notoriously famous” both in the civil society community and even in government circles. His torment and attacks on government were so poignant that it came to be that the fear of what he would say began to curtail and guide government’s actions and inactions.

Soon, the harassment became unbearable and the government decided to find a way around his “standing menace” by offering him an appointment.

The critic not only accepted the appointment but also began to speak less and less about government’s activities let alone criticizing it.And at the first anniversary of his appointment, some reporters drew his attention to the sudden quietness around him, how his voice is no longer heard on the wrong actions and policies of government.And his hilarious response was that, “table manner teaches that when you are eating, you don’t talk!” Everybody laughed and backslapped one another.

I am not certain if that is the case with the Managing Director of News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Mr Bayo Onanuga. It hardly will be the case because Onanuga who had been silent since he was appointed barely four months ago has started speaking, breaking the “table etiquette.”

But the problem is not that he is talking while he is eating, he is saying the very wrong things to the pain and chagrin of those who have had nothing to eat.

Onanuga was quoted as saying that the “so-called hardship” in Nigeria is mere propaganda orchestrated by the media.

This is how he put it on his Facebook post: “Are the media and bloggers really painting a correct image of our country? It’s time for the media to objectively conduct a reality check about our reports, whether we are not over sensationalising so-called hardship that we talked about.”

The respected journalist, in an attempt to justify his post cited three examples: one, his daughter’s flight aboard VirginAtlantic from Lagos to London, whereupon his daughter had claimed in a text message to him, that the flight was full. Two, Onanuga was in Bauchi and Jos over the weekend and his plate of food in the hotel was N700.And thirdly, he claims that even inAbuja, he is able to make a full pot of vegetable soup with just N1,400, so he really wonders if indeed there is suffering or hunger in the land.

He thus blamed the media for blowing the “so-called hardship” in Nigeria out of proportion, maintaining that it is all an exaggeration to make the Buhari administration look really very bad, just as he added that the hardship has been politicized.

Okay, let us deconstruct Onanuga’s arguments.

First, we are not sure if indeed the daughter’s report of the number of passengers in that plane was correct.

kernels were cracked by benevolent spirit should not forget to be humble.”

And finally on this: that he is able to afford an international flight for his daughter at a time Nigerians are wailing of hunger bespeaks of his distance from the reality facing the masses.

Argument Two:Aplate of food in a Jos hotel was N700. Therefore life is yet cheap as food is affordable.

There is no better example of a wonky argument. First, Onanuga may have been on official trip to the said Jos and Bauchi. So his expenses: feeding, flight or road transport, including hotel accommodation and even out-of-station allowance, are all borne by the tax payers’ money. So he cannot feel the pinch, as government is bearing it all. But assuming he is paying from his pocket, that means he will be expending N2,100 or more a day on food. Pray, in an economy where about 4.58 million have lost their jobs in one year, how many people can afford N2,100 a day on food? If he thinks the stories about hunger in the land are fake or exaggerated or creations of the media, let him go to Sabon-gari in Kano or Oshodi in Lagos and he will see naked effigies of hunger dancing on the streets. Has Onanuga heard of how some desperate parents have started dropping Onanuga off their children as collateral in order to get food stuff? What does he think is fuelling the menace of But even if it was, does the mere fact that a plane’s kidnapping and other strange crimes in the land? Out cabin is full of passengers a fact that a country is not of hunger and frustration, a man recently committed suffering? The summer holidays are almost over. So, it can hardly be holiday makers who have filled the plane. suicide inAkwa-Ibom State. Did NAN not publish the story?

They could be passengers returning to their countries When 24 out of 36 states are unable to pay their state of residence, they could be people going for medicals, workers, capital projects are not really taking place, they could be students going to resume school, etc. government contractors are not being paid, public and That the plane is full therefore does not negate the fact private spendings have shrunk, businesses are folding that there is hardship in the land. Mr Onanuga can do up etc, how are Nigerians supposed to have reinforced a better research by tracking the volume of passengers purchasing power? Onanuga’s boss himself, President airlifted by the foreign airlines from Nigeria during the Mohammadu Buhari had severally acknowledged summer holidays compared to what it used to be. He the pain Nigerians are going through and pleaded for should not depend on the possibly subjective report of patience and understanding. But Onanuga seeks to be his daughter.

Can Mr Onanuga who heads a major news agency more Catholic than the Pope, by choosing to live in self denial about an economy literally squeezing everybody in Nigeria be doubting the hardship in the land alike. when his agency recently reported the suspension of Mr Onanuga does not have to be an economist to operation of two airlines (Aero Contractors and First understand these basic issues. Let him ask those in Nation) within two days? What was it that forced business. He will hear true tales of hardship and brute the two airlines out of the sky? Were they going on economy. Until his appointment last May, he had holidays? appeared to always be on the side of the hapless masses.

Does he understand the groan airline operators are But just four months after he got the appointment, he releasing in order to stay in service? Did he not hear of does not believe the hardship everybody is talking Innoson Motors, Onitsha, threatening to shut down about is not a media propaganda. I wonder what his production if the harsh economic condition persists? mindset about the masses will be one year after his Are all these victims of the economy also exaggerating appointment. He will probably, like late Umaru Dikko, the situation? argue that since Nigerian are not eating from dustbin, Onanuga is a government official. He drives they are neither hungry nor are they suffering. a government car(s). He probably lives in a free And before I end this argument, it would be better government house. He gets free medical service. His Onanuga churns out his own statistics different from clothes are probably dry-cleaned at government’s the one the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics(NBS) released expenses. His domestic staff are paid by government. eleven days ago declaring that we are now in recession, He gets sundry accouterments of office, all of which with all the frightening details of our decrepit economy. help to blind him from the brute realities hitting Is hardship, inflation and hunger not integral parts of Nigerians from every angle. an economy on recess? How can Onanuga dismiss the As ChinuaAchebe would write, “Those whose

NBS? Or is the NBS a PDP-funded agency?

And thirdly, Onanuga claims that he is able to make a pot of vegetable soup with N1,400 even inAbuja.

Really? What kind of soup is he talking about?And for how many people and how many meals? I do not know the culinary adeptness of Onanuga, but if what I hear my wife and many other women lament about the roof-top prices of commodities and food stuff is anything to go by, then Onanuga is painting a very deceptive picture of the situation.

If inflation has risen to 17.1 per cent as at the end of July this year, Onanuga’s pot of soup at N1,400, will either be a lesson on how to prepare recession soup (let him release the ingredients and condiments used) or a type of soup fit only for hopeless refugees.

Worse still, does the NAN MD know that even getting the so-called N1,400 could be a challenge to some families? In just four months, Onanuga couldn’t have climbed so far up the ladder of fortune as to forget the rhythms and narratives of the poor.

Did Onanuga have to talk and defend a bad economy? Is that his job? Is he in touch with his people in the village? Does he have ordinary neighbours in his ensconced (?)Abuja abode? What does he hear from them? What about his staff members at NAN? They are not complaining? Or he is simply deaf to the grumblings below?

With the likes of Onanuga around Mr President, we would fear that it is morning yet on creation day.

Sadder still is that for a personality that had earned a place in the public domain as a defender and advocate of propriety and better life, the Facebook post of Onanuga does violence to his pedigree.

He would have probably become the Nigerian Goebbel if he was the spokesman either for government or Mr President.

Many were shocked and even doubtful that it is the same Onanuga, a burnished activist, that made the comment. In fact, somebody tweeted that Onanuga should be alerted that somebody had hacked into his Facebook account; implying that the real and known Onanuga could not have swiftly done a 360 degree in just four months. Little wonder that Malcom X had asked: “why do otherwise wise men become foolish when they join government?”

But Onanuga not only confirmed to Premium Times that he authored the post, he went on to claim that he was merely asking a question, believing also that the “so-called hardship” has been politicized.

Pray, Mr Onanuga, what political party does hunger belong to? The NAN boss must be told his arguments are not only specious and misleading, they are capable of crashing the shares of NAN if the organization was a publicly quoted company.

All said, I guess the time-tested etiquette of keeping quiet while eating should be adhered to by all, including Onanuga. This will not only prevent pepper from going the wrong way, it will ensure that the wrong things are not said out of sheer buffet-effect, so the hungry bystanders do not rise up in arms against those lucky to be at a table.

Michael Ibru: The Giant Iroko Has Fallen

L

ast Tuesday, the news broke: Olorogun Michael Christopher Onajirevbe Ibru passed on at 86, almost.

We had just returned, few weeks ago, from the funeral of his immediate younger brother, Felix Ovuodoroye Ibru at Agbarha-Otor, Delta State.

For quite some time, the patriarch of the Ibru clan had been ill.

No space is enough to do a fitting tribute to a foremost entrepreneur and visionary leader.

But it is enough to say that he saw the future with an uncommon binocular so much that at 26, he had hit the bull’s eye by establishing his own business, Lalbru outfit which transformed expanded rapidly to become a flourishing empire, that spread to such sectors like oil and gas, media, real estate, building construction, hospitality, brewery, banking, auto dealership, aviation etc.

He was our own economic Nostradamus.

His determination to solve the problem of his age (how to tackle malnutrition among families) drove him to discover the fishing business. He made a huge success of the

fishing venture so much that there was hardly any family in Nigeria that did not know of the Ibru fish brand. He created the brand and it defined him. Despite several challenges and his legion of detractors, Olorogun, as he was fondly called, soldiered on to create a solid Ibru dynasty that grew and spread in dimensions hitherto unknown and unseen.

As a budding child, we had grown to hear of the mystifying fame associated with the Ibrus. The family represented a metaphor for wealth and inexplicable fame and influence.

Olorogun was rarely seen, but whenever he made an appearance, it was with elan and panache. Either deliberately or unconsciously, he helped to create the Ibru mystique, not only as an illustrious Urhobo son, but a towering Pan-Nigerian, nay global phenomenon.

Or how else was one to interpret the greatness of a man who in the early 70’s had whitemen as his driver? Olorogun, sleep on and If there is any recession in the world beyond, teach them how to overcome.

He’s played his part and bowed out of the stage, but the worry remains: where are the suckers that will take the place of the mother plantain?

Olorogun Ibru

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • September 10, 2016

tunderahman

tunderahmanu@yahoo.com

The Column on Politics and Political Issues

08055069548 (Text only)

Shift of Edo Poll: Who is Being Fooled?

t

he headline of this week’s offering is an adaptation of the title of an article on the Back Page of The Nation newspaper of Thursday, September 8, 2016-“Militancy: Who is Being Fooled?”. It was an incisive article on the Niger Delta situation written by environmentalist Ken King. In the article, King identified three categories of people-the traditional chiefs who abused their influence as the interface for their people in the demand for developmental projects, the government officials from the area who colluded with multinationals and MDAs to get mere fractions of the funds that would have developed their communities and the militants who got cash handouts under the amnesty programme and spent a portion of the funds in acquiring more sophisticated arms- all of whom he said had helped to drag the Niger Delta down. Concluding, King asked the question-“who is being fooled by the present agitation in the Niger Delta region, if the criminality or militancy can be so qualified?” He said the Niger Delta people must therefore be realistic enough to accept that some people had misled them and that militancy remains a self-inflicted malady.

The inspiration for this piece, which is on the shift of today’s Edo governorship poll, emerged from that critical question King asked in his article-“Who is Being Fooled?”

This piece, therefore, has been appropriately titled- Shift of Edo Poll: Who is Being Fooled?

After initially refusing to bow to pressure, the Independent National Electoral Commission eventually postponed Edo governorship election, originally scheduled for Saturday, September 10, to Wednesday September 28.

The postponement followed a security advice (unsolicited as it were) from the Police and Department of State Security Service to the electoral body. The two agencies had called for a shift of the election, saying credible intelligence available to them indicated that there were plans by insurgent and extremist elements to attack vulnerable communities and soft targets around September 12 and 13 during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration. The advice was not sent directly to INEC. It was unfolded at a news conference addressed by Force Spokesman, Deputy Commissioner of Police Don Awunah, on Wednesday in Abuja and INEC was initially left in a quandary about it.

It could be dangerous to not heed a security report, any security report at that, but the extant security advice seems suspect. How? Only on Tuesday, President Muhammadu Buhari led APC leaders and governors to the mega campaign rally of the party for the same governorship election in Benin. The

Obaseki

Ize-Iyamu

rally was well attended and there was nothing to suggest any likely breach of security in the state. The parties -APC, PDP and othershave been having their campaigns without any hitch or threat of security. At that time eleventh hour of the poll, the police did not suspect there could be any breach of security for the election. The Inspector-General of Police Idris Ibrahim had even disclosed that he was deploying additional 25,000 policemen for the poll.

Then, there was a sudden press conference by the police and DSS. The reason for the election postponement seems contrived in my view. And this is so for two reasons. One, the security agencies were too eager to admit a likely security breach in communities and soft targets across 13 states including Edo when President Buhari would say the fight against the Boko Haram terror group has virtually been won. Do they realise the disservice this will do to the seemingly -successful battle against the Boko Haram insurgents? Again, the signal that Nigeria is not safe is coming from government agencies, not from foreign governments or their agencies or media organisations!

Two, Governor Adams Oshiomhole alleged that governors of neighbouring Delta, Bayelsa and River States were preparing to bring militants into Edo to perpetrate violence during the election. For the life of me, did the governor know, perhaps more than the Police and DSS themselves, why the poll had to be postponed? Oshiomhole was very

vociferous in the demand for a shift of the poll. Speaking during a meeting with leaders and stakeholders of APC in the state at the Government House in Benin last Thursday, the governor said it was regrettable that in spite of the security report urging INEC to postpone the election, the electoral body still remained adamant. He said INEC should be ready to take responsibility for any action if it decides to conduct the election against security advice.

After the postponement, both APC and PDP leaders have been trading accusations. But the route to the election shift is all too familiar. It’s an old and worn-out tactic. We have neither learnt new tricks nor forgotten old ones as they say. Recall that the military top brass had on the eve of the 2015 general elections during President Goodluck Jonathan’s time presented a report that they could not guarantee the security of the electoral officers in some parts of the North, particularly the North-east, if the 2015 election were held as scheduled.

The elections were then to begin with the presidential poll in February 2015. Former INEC Chairman Attahiru Jega initially insisted on INEC’s independence and its mandate to fix the dates for election. He said the commission was ready to proceed with the election as originally scheduled. But Jega was presented with a fait accompli: proceed with the election and damn the consequence!

The Professor of Political Science caved in.

The elections were later shifted by six weeks.

Governor Adams Oshiomhole alleged that governors of neighbouring Delta, Bayelsa and River States were preparing to bring militants into Edo to perpetrate violence during the election. For the life of me, did the governor know, perhaps more than the Police and DSS themselves, why the poll had to be postponed?

The security threat for the postponement was blamed on the Boko Haram insurgency in the North. It later emerged that the polls, particularly the presidential election, were shifted in order to buy more time for President Jonathan. President Jonathan still lost the poll eventually.

I sympathise with the new INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmud Yakubu who had been assailed with criticisms that he had been organising inconclusive elections and who like his predecessor wanted to assert the commission’s independence. After the security advice, the commission consulted with its stakeholders -the political parties, their candidates and Civil Society Organisations-. They were said to be overwhelming in support of going ahead with the election as scheduled. The commission had to give in following persistent pressure on it. But sooner than later the real reason for this postponement will also emerge. Was it also to buy time? Time will tell.

• Rahman, former Editor, Thisday on Sunday, is Managing Editor of Western Post. Follow him on Twitter @tunderahmanu

RIGHT OF REPLY

Enough of Phantom Corruption Allegation, Demonization of Atiku

I

t was difficult figuring out how to complete the cuboids of the headline as published in Saturday, August 27 edition of Thisday Newspaper. It is understandable that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is in the throes of intra-party squabbles and it is also not objectionable that Senator Ali Modu Sheriff is in a quandary as he struggles to lay his hands on the control levers of the erstwhile ruling party.

But, what doesn’t fit into the mix is the attempt to bridge former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to Sheriff’s travails.

It may seem as though to pep every political exclusive story, it must be laden with an Atiku dimension. Until recently, the impression out there was that Atiku was indeed the puppeteer of Sheriff’s shenanigan in PDP’s power tussle, and now the same Atiku Abubakar is being purportedly fingered as the ventriloquist behind his travails. The puzzle is now how to figure out, which narrative to believe.

A story built on falsehood will surely collapse like a pack of cards.

But as unwieldy as the article in the Thisday newspaper is, it portrays the nar-

rative that has trailed the Atiku persona and his political career in the last ten years or thereabouts, which is that Atiku can never become a president of Nigeria because of the corruption perception against him – need we remind ourselves that this same man (Atiku) has neither been tried nor convicted by any court of justice here in the country or overseas.

Since the defeat of Obasanjo’s third term bid in the National Assembly, Atiku’s political opponents have repeatedly devised a conspiracy to blackmail the Turaki Adamawa on the notion of corruption. It was a conspiracy that was initiated by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, which is continuously being sustained by political opposing minds to vilify Atiku before the electorate.

Of course, corruption is enough reason to reject any presidential hopeful. But that is when there is iota of evidence to back up such claim. In the Atiku situation, nobody has been able to establish any case of corruption against him or an evidence of his corruptibility. After almost ten years of his being out of government, and with different adminis-

trations in succession, nobody has pinned Atiku to any case of corruption, nor has any anti-corruption agency made a claim of investigation or culpability against Atiku.

I suspect that we have been victims of elite conspiracy bug and until we diffuse our minds of that bug, we may never be able to make a wholesome appreciation of the electoral choices that we may make in future election circle. I should reason that Mr. Tunde Rahman, the writer of the article in Thisday, or any such writer on Atiku should be more scientific in their frantic efforts to brush Atiku with corruption tar. Provide a clear case against him or forever keep quiet and respect the intelligence of your discerning readers.

The media has helped a lot in propagating the smear campaign against Atiku since 2006 when the third term bid was defeated. This is 2016 and it is obvious Atiku has moved on from answering questions on phantom corruption allegations.

He has busied himself trying to reconstruct the national dialogue along the line of restructuring, helping out-of-school children get back to classrooms for learn-

ing, providing employment opportunities that create jobs and creating jobs as well for the adults and young and also mentoring young entrepreneurs to help create more jobs.

The distribution of seedlings to farmers in the North-Eastern region to help them get back to farming after the destruction of their means of livelihood by the Boko Haram insurgents is just a thing amongst numerous tasks he has engaged himself in. These are the ideals that the decade demands and these are ideals that the elite of this country must key into.

With the Buhari administration barely midway into the course of its term, it is incredulous that some political merchants are already out behind masks with daggers drawn thinking of 2019 and, for them, the best way to make themselves relevant, is by doing the usual: demonize Atiku. Nigeria as a nation; should move beyond this level of pettiness. Atiku gets that and, it is high time his traducers understood that fact too!

•By Atiku Media Office

Plus TOE Ejike

I Used to Hawk Bears on Street

LOUD WHISPERS MEDIA AUTO GLOBAL SOCCER FITNESS FASHION FILE

pg. 20 pg. 24 pg. 26 pg. 29 pg. 40 pg. 41

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

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Plus

I Proposed to My Wife First Time I Met Her When his name, Theodore Okwu Ekije, TOE, Ekechi, is mentioned, what readily comes to mind is a major player in the nation’s advertising industry. He’s the chairman of two leading out-of-home advertising concerns. But he started out as a supplier of tea cups to government offices before delving into commodity brokerage. Driven by passion, he switched to advertising. It did not take him long to break through. His two companies are known for premium sites across the country. However, that has not prevented him from diversifying into solar energy business and publishing. From the backwater of Ajegunle in Lagos to rubbing shoulders with the high and mighty, Ekechi tells the story of a life that was nearly truncated by the Civil War, how he started business with a loan of N30,000 and the as he speaks with Samuel Ajayi

M

any have come to see your name as TOE Ekechi. Whereas, the three letters are your initials. What does the T stand for?

Theodore? Titus?

Theo? And what does the TOE stand for?

TOE represents the initials of my first, middle and third names but often times my friends prefer to call me TOE, perhaps because of its simplicity instead of taking the acronyms letter by letter. TOE became very popular while contesting in a Students Union election at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

At a strategy session we sought for a name quite simple, symbolic and significant for students to easily relate to, remember and pronounce. Hence TOE; which was later elevated to what it is today. At campaign rallies, I used to raise my leg and appeal to people that in case they wouldn’t remember my name they should just look at their feet and they’ll recall that it’s toe. The strategy paid off and my popularity at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, soared immensely.

Over the years the acronym as a word stuck to me so much so that even my parents and siblings call me TOE. I have been struggling to reconcile this with some of my documents and certificates and the way and manner I’m addressed in official quarters because TOE Ekechi. Whereas the full and true translation is Theodore Okwurunicheta Ejikeme Ekechi. Thank God, I ignored the other name my mother was so fond of which was Ashigwuike.

Otherwise the confusions would have overwhelmed me.

You are easily remembered as the brains behind Media and Marketing Limited as well as Allianz Media Limited; you are also known to be involved in many other endeavours.

How did it all started?

My business career kicked off through supplies. It was one of the cheapest and easiest ways to enter into business in those days. All you needed was a clean brief case, well designed call cards and letter heads, copies of invoices, a forwarding address and phone numbers which often were not yours and you are set for business.

The first formal business I did was the supply of tea cups to NITEL then at

Ikoyi. It was a contract of about N4,800.

I bought the tea cups from around Tinubu area for about N1, 200. That was too much profit for me at the time!

As I grew in the supply business, I hated it rather than love it because the level of patronage you got depended on how your face was liked or hated, where you came from versus who was in charge of giving orders. It wasn’t so sophisticated then, so people were not so concerned on the level of skills you put in doing that job. I felt that type of job would not last long and that I was not cut out for it. I craved for something with a niche and more dignity that would make people look for me on the basis of the services that I render. That was how I decided to go into commodity brokerage; taking advantage of the need to bridge the supply gap between the North and the South. I had this glorified store which I called a warehouse in Mushin, Lagos. Even though I had a master’s degree and a doctorate degree in pursuit, I would travel by night buses to Maiduguri, Borno State, came back with a trailer load of beans or dry fish, offload them and commit them to off-takers who sell and bring returns to me. But a lot of people didn’t see it as befitting for a person of my status.

However, I was more concerned with the profit I was making. I saw it as the quickest way to raise the dire capital for a real professional practice. It was the proceeds from the business that enabled me to set up my first marketing communication firm, TOE and Associates Limited and later Marketing and Media Limited. By His Grace, I have expanded my business horizon to include interests in solar energy and publishing.

What were initial challenges you faced while setting up your companies?

I started this journey with N30,000 from my sister and her husband and I was supposed to pay back within a period of time. I paid half of the money within six months and the rest was written off. Everything that I am today came out of it. The major challenge was to get people to believe that I could execute projects very well being new in the actual practice of marketing communications.

How easy or tough was it for you Ekechi

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SEPTEMBER 10, 2016 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

Plus Ajegunle Harboured Criminals then, but the Place was Safe from Crime getting your first set of clients?

It was very difficult. My breakthrough in outdoor advertising came from Insight Communications. The man who signed off that business for me nearly lost his job. The international associates of Nestle Plc. were coming to visit Nigeria and the company wanted to have a strong visibility of their products along the airport route.

Because it was few days away, most practitioners felt it was impossible to achieve whereas I vowed to accomplish the task within the period. They took a chance on us not because they liked us but because no other company was willing to take up the challenge.

When the marketing head of Nestle was informed that the job had been given to an unknown entity like us, he was furious. Our fate was to change, however, when we achieved the feat.

You mentioned publishing as part of your business now. Why are you into newspaper publication?

My stint as Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Imo State between 2013 and 2014 was a very big eye-opener. Owerri, nay Imo, is a place where on a daily basis you find around 30 different tabloids on newsstands and they are well patronised because they address the reading needs of local people. Yet one can easily see a yawning gap in the lack of basic, broad, (inter)national contents. Sunrise Nigeria, my newspaper, is founded on the premise of being (inter)nationally local with a strong focus on the South-East-South audience; both home and abroad. It is a gap-filler in the journalism space.

Can you tell us about your childhood?

Mine is actually an ironic story in the sense that, relatively speaking, we were at some point in our lives silver-spoon kids. I was born in Sapele in the then Mid-West State where my father worked and rose to the position of a Shipping Manager in one of the foremost industries of that time, African Timber and Plywood (AT&P).

But the outbreak of the Civil War truncated whatever plans our parents had for us. The Civil War obliterated whatever gains my parents made; taking us to ground zero when it ended.

At the break of the war my father sold all his property, returned to our native Ngor Okpala, Owerri, Imo State and deposited the proceeds in what later became the Bank of Biafra.

Recall that after the war, ‘Biafrans’ were tricked to bring their currency in exchange for the Nigerian pounds.

Because of my father’s tremendous goodwill, most families in the community brought their monies to my father who aggregated for deposit in the Nigerian bank. At the end of the day whether you kept one pinch or one billion of the Biafran currency, everybody got 20 pounds! That was disaster and the beginning of trauma for my parents and all the members of our community. As little as that money was, my father shared it equally among every member of the community who had contributed to the deposit. That was the end of any type of priviledged upbringing we ever had.

I was only able to manage a primary education in my native home before moving to Lagos to join my sister and her husband and I have been a Lagosian ever since.

I attended United Christian College, Apapa, and I am so proud to let you know that Oby Ezekwesili was my classmate in that school. We also entered the University of Nigeria Nsukka the same year. She is a successful alumnus today and I am very proud to be associated with her.

I attended secondary school not knowing what leisure or luxury meant.

I ran a shop for my sister, hawked beer on my head under the sun. Sometimes I would hawk vegetable that had been harvested within the gardens in Ajegunle at the local government

Ekechi with Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode at an occasion

centre. Sometimes they are seized.

For the five years I was in secondary school my colleagues can testify I was branded a habitual latecomer not because it was in my character but because I must do some chores before preparing to leave for school. The earliest I could finish those domestic duties was usually 8:00am after waking up around 5:00am. The earliest I got to school was 9:30am by which time the first period would have been over. So, I consistently missed all the first lectures in secondary school.

More depriving is that in spite of all of that I was expected to be home by 3:00pm regardless of how difficult it was from Apapa GRA to Ajegunle.

So, there was no time for playing after school and there was nothing like stopping over at a friend’s house; there was absolutely nothing like that. Even on Saturdays, I worked full-time, being in the shop or bar till 1:00am before going home to sleep. Because you must wake up by 5:00am, you had only four hours to sleep. Most of the times, I was always sleeping in the class.

God and the support of my principal, Governor Rochas Okorocha, it was a memorable and successful experience.

It was like obtaining an MPPA (Masters in Practical Public Administration) within 11 months.

How did this affect your academic performance?

Oh... God was and is still merciful.

In spite of all these shortcomings, I am proud to say that I posted the best result in secondary school with six A1s in my WAEC. Before then I enrolled for GCE while in Class Four and passed all my papers.

Even as a university undergraduate, I never enjoyed any holiday. I had to in Lagos to look after my sister and hubby’s business in order to earn some pay to support my brother’s effort for the next academic session.

However, I look back today with gratitude to my siblings for giving me that opportunity to learn to be strong.

From that experience, I have learnt that you can ‘achieve in spite of’ and not ‘fail because of’. It is a philosophy that has lived with me and now guides my life. These experiences influenced my decision right from my youth service days that I wasn’t going to work for anybody. As a corper in Ibadan, I would go to Nigerian Breweries and apply for wholesale products on behalf of fellow corpers, thereby making some money.

You have recently been involved in a non-governmental organisation, UniPeace. What prompted that?

The United Nigeria Initiative is an independent platform for people to discuss the Nigerian project without fear or intimidation. We believe that Nigeria can be discussed but that in doing so the idea of a particular people should not drown that of others who may have opposing ideas. The level of violence in the regions is suggestive of a tribal throwback. We are appealing to people to put their agitations in proper perspectives that guarantee peace and prosperity for our collective prosperity.

You described some of your political assignments as sabbatical.

What was the experience like as a Commissioner in Imo State?

It remains one of my most exciting experiences. I assumed duty at a period there was a strong desire to put Imo State governments image in proper perspectives in view of its landmark performances. So it was like a rescue mission for me for the 11 months it lasted. By the grace of

You were the Director of Planning and Monitoring for the Presidential Election for the All Progressives Congress in the 2015. How did that experience impact your views about political assignments?

My job was to plan and monitor the elections in about 155,000 polling units across the country including the training of the agents in those units to ensure that APC wins. I also had the responsibility of feeling the pulse of Nigerians through our National Control (and Poll) Centre. It was a rewarding experience that enabled one to have a deep glimpse of the sentiments and emotions of Nigerians of different persuasions and the sociopolitical conflagration therefrom. It was a meeting point between practice and theory.

Do you ever have the time to pamper yourself and enjoy life with your family?

Yes, I do, but it all depends on what you define to be relaxation. Relaxation to me is anything that you do that soothes your heart and soul without stress. Most of my relaxations are work-related, provided I undertake them in a state of conviviality and cool mood.

Where are your favourite holiday destinations?

My native town, Imerienwe, is the best holiday destination for me. I have been to different parts of the world but I have come to realise that there is no place like home. The exchange of banters with childhood friends and the opportunity to savour nature’s free gifts is soothing. Fortunately, my native home is still very virgin and free from the assault of civilisation. Even then as a High Chief of my Local Government,

More depriving is that in spite of all of that I was expected to be home by 3:00pm regardless of how difficult it was from Apapa GRA to Ajegunle.

So, there was no time for playing after school and there was nothing like stopping over at a friend’s house; there was absolutely nothing like that. Even on Saturdays, I worked full-time, being in the shop or bar till 1:00am before going home to sleep. Because you must wake up by 5:00am, you had only four hours to sleep.

Most of the times, I was always sleeping in the class Ugo Eji Ejemba (Worthy Ambassador) of Ngor Okpala, I cannot play too far away from home.

How and at what point did you meet your wife?

My wife is a divine gift from God. I met her by faith and made up my mind to marry her without seeing her.

I stayed long in bachelorhood before getting married around the age of 38 even though I commenced the search as early as 28. One day I ran into a friend who wondered why I was not married and I explained to her it was simply because I had not seen the dream lady. She challenged me to describe this dream woman after which she linked me up to a banker in Warri. I shed tears when I finally met her in Warri and to her surprise and shock, I proposed immediately. It sounded unreal and scary; it maybe why it took me three years of intensive wooing to win her over. It is a divine gift with the icing of four children – two boys and two girls.

Any regrets not marrying early?

At some moments you are tempted to feel that if you had done it earlier you would have been through with at least all the children’s primary education by now. But as you ponder deeply, you shudder at the rate of crashed marriages, the trauma of many couples today living as mere neighbours with no love lost between them and childless couples who will give up anything of the past or present to hear the cries of babies in their homes. On reflection therefore, it does not really matter to you anymore whether you married late or early. What matters most is the present state of your marriage.

Perhaps, God allowed me to wait that long just to meet the right woman and I am eternally grateful to Him for the conjugal tranquillity we enjoy.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016 with JOSEPH EDGAR (09095325791)

LOUD WHISPERS

Funke Akindele

‘I Hate My Job’ One hapless fellow during the week twitted this obscenity and actually lost his job. I hear he worked for one of the financial institutions in Lagos and must have really been bored silly with his job.

So off to Twitter to catch some fun and finally lost the job he hated so much. I should think that he would be relieved right now since he did not have the courage to resign but instead continued daily on a job that could have led to his death. Do I pity him? I think not. People are daily losing their jobs and millions more are looking for jobs. I just saw a news report on how people are being asked to pay a whooping N150,000 for teaching jobs in one of the south-eastern states. So the best thing that could have happened to this young man and to his institution is his being given the sack. For he would have just been warming the seat lazily that someone else could have gladly and dutifully occupied. So my thanks goes to Twitter for exposing this person and my thanks also goes to that institution for taking the right step. Please have you filled the vacancy? I have like 50 cousins looking for jobs.

Gani Fawehinmi

Mark Zukerberg

Recession: The Blame Game is On This reminds me of primary school. When something goes wrong and the class teacher walks in to find out exactly who the culprit is. Everybody jumps up accusing everybody and then there is so much cacophony and confusion that at the end of the day the whole class gets punished since the culprit could not be found out in the midst of the hullabaloo. That is exactly what is going on in our country today.

Everybody is blaming everybody for the recession, Infact the only person that has not been blamed so far is Klint d drunk. Even him, the moment he makes a public statement he would be dragged into the wahala. PDP says it is APC, APC says it is PDP. I was with an APC stalwart during this week and he was adamant in the official party line that PDP is the main cause of this problem.

According to him, they did not handover and as such APC went into government blind. But the question I was too afraid to ask him, less he changed his mind about giving me breakfast, should we then now call back PDP to come and give a proper handover and will that now return us to the growth levels we saw during their time? . For me the issue goes beyond whose fault but what exactly are we going to do to resolve this problem. I am beginning to rethink my support for the economic emergency but only if the Federal Government can build a bi- partisan all inclusive team that would seriously tackle this thing. The rain is falling on every roof both PDP and APC and we really do not have time to continue with this blame game. People are really dying.

Village. I was young and innocent, fresh from school holding my master’s degree in Politcial Science.

When they ushered me in and I saw the baba seated with Beko RansomeKuti, my legs gave way. I stood there shaking like a zombie and tongue tied like a teenager in love. They both looked at me with pity and started asking questions. Fear did not let me answer the questions as I looked at these icons of national struggles knowing full well that I was not in the least interested in spending most of my youthful life

in various gulags. As they talked, I looked around for the famous bag which was said to be always packed and ready for his various trips. I did not see anything like that o but the newspaper cuttings and clips were everywhere. The office was cluttered and extremely busy. After little deliberations in hushed tones, they asked me to leave that they would get back to me. They never did. But let me guess what they must have said to themselves while considering my candidacy, ‘ Gani, see his skinny legs, this one will not be able

Funke Akindele: A Big Congratulations Let me use this medium to say congratulations to this screen goddess on her recent marriage. I pray that this time she has finally found true happiness and it is in the spirit of this joy that I will hold my fire on her television series, Jenifa’s Dairy which is currently running on cable.

Let m know when the honeymoon is over so that I can release fire, till then have fun, be a good wife and spoil your new husband with good cooking and tender, loving care.

Congrats my darling.

Gani Fawehinmi : What would He have Done?

What would the late Gani Fawehinmi have done about the current economic situation in the country?

He would have gone to court, led a thousand matches, granted so many press interviews and generally become very irritable to the government. This week is anniversary of his death and although as the years progress, his memory continues to dwindle with little and little events set up to mark this great leader of thought. I once met him when I went for a job interview. I did not know that it was a job to be his personal assistant, so I found my way to his office in that sleepy part of Anthony

Rotimi Akeredolu

to run when they fire tear gas. He is from Akwa Ibom, he will disturb all our female staff, but could be useful if we need to distract female police officers. He looks like someone that talks too much, once police catch us he will just sing. He is fine sha but we need haggard people for the struggle. He is too young, let’s pity his mama. Let’s not take him.’ That is how I lost the opportunity to be Gani Fawehinmi’s personal assistant . I thank God though, as I am not built for suffering for the masses, let them suffer alone. Abeg life is too sweet.

Mark Zukerberg and the Lekki Bridge I have always known that this Lekki bridge would soon hit international prominence and my hunch came through when the Facebook boss came jogging. The first time I went to watch the things on that bridge I did not leave for two hours.

The kind of women and ladies who jog on that bridge with different body-hugging outfits and confusing motorists remain confounding. The scene there is usually chaotic with things bumbling and shaking and throwing things around. All sizes, shapes and colours Kai, if we harness this thing very well it can be a veritable forex earner for the country. Leave all that talk about internet penetration, he must have come and seen things for himself. Remember his closest aide is a Nigerian, who had come much earlier. He must have gone back with stories of these natural endowments Nigerian women have been displaying on the bridge. So to his private jet he went and landed straight on the bridge, did the jogging and actually saw things for himself. He went back smiling and I am sure the Nigerian guy who made this discovery would be getting lined up for promotion.

Lekki bridge is the place to be, to lift your spirits in this recession.

Rotimi Akeredolu : Kudos Anytime I see his gray beard I will smile. I always knew he would emerge simply because his beard reminded me of the Cele prophet down my street. That to me was a good sign. So my egbon I say congratulations even as I remind you not to overlook some powers that be. The fact that you won against the grain of thought does not mean that you should ignore the forces. I really want you to emerge as the governor or else you will have to shave the beard and that will not augur well.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

SPY GLASS

with Bayo Adeoye ....08054680651 ment. The airport was upgraded to compete with the best in the world.

Buruji Kashamu, Ladipupo Adebutu’s Power Play

Wale Babalakin Still Unstoppable

Dr. Wale Babalakin, SAN, Chairman, Stabilini Visinoni Limited, is brainy.

The business mogul, who bagged a Ph. D in Law at 26, flaunts an intimidating resume that many of his competitors covet. The business colossus that also sits atop Bi-Courtney Limited is one of the few Nigerian businessmen who can rub shoulders with other top businessmen around the globe. A man gifted with the Midas touch, he never wavered, even when he was being hounded by the powers that be.

In recent time, however, he has been vilified by his traducers who allegedly want to send him out of business. Part of the campaign of calumny, was the ‘feasting’ on a May 3, 2016 judgment involving his company, Bi-Courtney, as if it was a piece of ‘‘breaking news’’.

Reacting to the alleged sponsored stories, a senior member of Bi-Courtney’s legal team had said: “It is not a new case; it is not a new judgment. For the avoidance of doubt, the parties to the case had indeed entered into an out-ofcourt settlement as set out in an offer letter by AMCON dated May 7, 2014. It was on account of the non-production of the said letter in court that Justice M. B. Idris dismissed the suit. We have filed a notice of appeal and we will have our day in court.”

It was gathered that Bi-Courtney, the claimant, had sought a number of reliefs against the defendant, AMCON, part of which reads: “A declaration that as at the 22nd of September 2014, the defendant’s offer letter dated 7th May, 2014, cannot create a new cause of action.”

The ‘‘new cause of action’’, being an ex-parte order granted on September 22, 2014(Suit no. FHC/LCS/1361/2014) prevented Babalakin from drawing from his bank accounts, with the resultant damage to his reputation and businesses.

Consequently, Bi-Courtney had sought an award of general, aggravated and exemplary damages totalling N300 billion, which the company insisted were never determined by the court.

Delivering his judgment, Justice Idris stated: “Having failed to produce the offer letter of May 7, 2014, the Court cannot rightly determine if the letter constitutes a new cause of action and whether the other several alleged actions of the defendant was right and whether the claimants are entitled to any damages as a result of the actions of the defendant.”

It was gathered that there is no freezing order on any of Dr. Babalakin’s assets, there is no judgement of N54bn against him; On the contrary, Dr. Babalakin has a judgement credit in excess of N150bn.

But regardless of his travail, BiCourtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL) is recognised for blazing a trail in the aviation industry, particularly as it concerns successful execution of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects in Nigeria. The firm privately funded and completed the reconstruction of the domestic terminal of the Muritala Muhammed Airport on a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) arrange-

It is a fact that both Senator Buruji Kashamu and Ladipupo Adebutu, representing Remo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, are chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP. But there seems to be no love lost any more between the duo due to what some insiders described as personal political ambition.

What started like a whisper has now snowballed into a deafening roar, as the rift between the two political titans is getting deeper by the day. Apart from the fact that the crisis has fractionalised the party in the state, their supporters allegedly have declared war on each other. Though the Adebutu-led faction is said to be more recognised by the national body of the party, Kashamu is also fighting for the control of the soul of the party in the state.

Sadly, the disaffection between the duo took a different dimension penultimate week when Adebutu accused the controversial businessman of physically attacking him at the party’s aborted convention in Port Harcourt.

Eye witnesses disclosed that it took the intervention of some other party members present, mostly supporters of the party’s Caretaker Committee chairman, Sen. Ahmed Markafi, who raced to the scene to douse the tension.

Adebutu is the son of Chief Kessington Adebutu, popularly known as Baba Ijebu and one of the richest men in Ogun State. He is said to be banking on his father’s wealth and contacts to defeat anyone who comes up within the PDP to challenge him for the governorship ticket.

Tony Onoh’s winning streak

Not too many businessmen and chief executives have his kind of guts.

He does not cringe, even in the face of difficulty. Perhaps, this unique attribute was the impetus that made him go into the oil and gas business at a time when many had not given him any chance of survival. Indeed, when Tony Onoh set up Eurafric Oil and Coastal Service in the 90’s, many had sneered at him, but he simply refused to entomb his living dream.

Many years after, mother luck smiled on him when he struck a deal to provide over 10 million litres of diesel to the landlocked West African country of Chad. Then, the only way to get the fuel delivered was to send it by truck through Nigeria’s northern borders. He was therefore advised to bring in the fuel by sea, store it in the Apapa depot owned by the old African Petroleum Plc in Lagos and engage a third party logistic firm to handle haulage of the product by road.

This arrangement worked so well for him that he not only became a multimillionaire, but he also empowered most of the other firms and commercial partners working with him at that time.

Tough and confident, Onoh has since proven to the world that he is a maestro in the art of making money.

How? He later established other subsidiaries, including Dawes Island Marginal Field located in OPLs

2005 and 2006 (formerly Oil Mining Lease 54 owned by Chevron), Eurafric Power Company (EPC), the new owner of Sapele Power Plc in Ogorode, Delta State. He would later enter into a consortium with CMEC to pay $180 million USD after the Nestoil/Julius Berger.

However, he reportedly experienced a low moment when he was alleged to have been involved in the infamous subsidy scam to the tune of N2bn. When the news broke, his fans stood solidly behind him, maintaining that it was a case of mistaken identity. He was invited alongside the managing director of his company, Odjegba Onoriode , in October 2013 by State Fraud Unit and was sued to Federal High Court, Lagos. But after few months of legal fireworks, precisely June 23, 2014, Onoh had cause to dance the dance of victory when Justice O.E. Abang acquitted of the charges preferred against him. His integrity was once again restored.

As proof of his foresightedness, his company recently signed a 300mw Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with Cummings Cogeneration Ltd, as part of plans to build one of Africa’s largest gas-fired power plants. The partnership, it was gathered, came just weeks after the company announced the signing of a 300mw investment in neighbouring Beyin, Ghana.

Orji Uzor Kalu’s other beautiful Dream

Certainly, anyone who will like to write the biography of Chief Orji Uzor Kalu, OUK, a businessman and exgovernor of Abia State, will find enough materials that will make the book an interesting read for any interested reader. Or what do you say of a man who at 22 was the president, Students Union Government (SUG), University of Maiduguri; chairman of Borno Water Board at 25; chairman of Cooperative and Commerce Bank at 27; chairman of Imo State Marketing Agency at 28 and Abia State governor at 39?

But if you think he has stopped dreaming big, you are in for a shocker.

How? Come 2019, ambitious Kalu, Spyglass gathered, may be contesting to be Nigeria’s number one citizen. Though this is still held close to his chest, it was gathered that he has been working underground towards actualising his dream.

A source revealed to Spyglass that he is already reaching out eminent personalities in the country. ‘‘The only thing that can stop OUK from seeking the number one job of this country is if President Muhammadu Buhari contests for second term. He is a fan of the President, and he shares in President’s anti-corruption war,’’ the source hinted.

Another source revealed that OUK was relying on his connections and influence across the nation to achieve his new political ambition.

Orji, the man with the Midas touch, according to Forbes, holds the double honour as the 4th richest man in Nigeria and the richest Igbo man the world over. He reportedly took delivery of his private jet, a brand new Gulfstream G650 model, worth N12 billion, recently.

Before proceeding to Harvard University Graduate Business School (AMP 153) Boston, USA, where he was awarded the IEA Certificate by USAID, this graduate of Political Science from the University of Maiduguri and Abia State University, Uturu, Orji had been a trailblazer.

The ever blunt philanthropist, who sits atop the SLOK conglomerate with interests in airline, shipping, oil and

gas, amongst others, has his business tentacles spread all over the African continent, USA, Europe, UK and Asia.

When Lagos Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, Celebrates

If the encomiums that were poured on the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Owoseni, when he marked his birthday recently could be used to gauge the level of his profile, then, one could say that he is definitely a super cop. He was showered with eulogies from far and wide when he celebrated his birthday recently. As expected the day was occasioned by outpouring of generous tributes from many people and a harvest of praises from his friends and loved ones.

Many of the guests at the birthday party agreed that Lagosians could have not asked for a better Police commissioner.

Their profound love for Owoseni was premised on the fact that he shares in the vision of the state governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, to stamp out crimes from the state.

Indeed, since he took over the reins of policing the state from the ex- Commissioner of Police, Kayode Aderanti, in 2015, he has been a thorn in the flesh of the undisciplined elements in the state, while also ensuring peace and security of lives in the state.

Prior to his posting to Lagos, the Osun State-born cop was the Commissioner in charge of the Western Ports Police Command. He had served as the Police Director of Peace Keeping Operations.

As a diplomat, the graduate of Sociology from the University of Ibadan was Deputy Defense Adviser (Police), permanent mission of Nigeria to the United Nations between July, 2002 and July, 2008.

Ziyad Kukubor Wows at Sister’s Wedding

There is no gainsaying that no stone was left untouched when popular billionaire, Godson Mensah Kukubor, gave out his beautiful daughter, Suraya Mensah, a Ghollywood actress and radio talk show host in marriage to London-based Ghanaian Pastor, Albert Sarfo, last weekend.

Interestingly, one of the highlights of the colourful event was the show put up by a brother to the bride, Ziyad Kukubor, at the 4-star Richester Hotel in East Legon, Ghana.

Following the arrival of the bride and groom, Ziyad made wads of Dollar and Cedis bills rain like snow at his elder sister’s wedding, amidst cheers from the excited guests at the wedding reception.

Also, when Ziyad, who is into fishing, power bikes and luxury cars, started ‘spraying’’ hard currencies on the couple, guests were reportedly instantly intrigued. The video reel has since gone viral, amongst the Ghanaian audience.

In attendance were A-list Nigerian and Ghanaian celebrities, including Nadia Buhari, Klint the Drunk among others.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

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TRAVEL&LEISURE

by OMOLOLA ITAYEMI omolola.itayemi@thisdaylive.com 08054699602

UWECHUE-MBANEFO

We Can’t Build Economy with Corruption as Working Capital Growing Nigeria’s economy beyond oil and gas has never been more imperative, but can a robust diversificationtakeplacewithouteradicatingcorruption?DirectorGeneral,NigerianTourismDevelopment Corporation, NTDC, Dr. Mrs. Sally Uwechue-Mbanefo, tellsTHISDAYTravel and Leisure what can be done

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here is outcry about the state of the economy. What is your take on it being an ex-banker?

one of popular tourism events in Africa. From festivals to carnivals to meetings, whether in the South West, North or South-South, all have potential multiplier effects on the local, state and national economies.

Yes, there are challenges in security but this hamhas long been a global challenge that has ham pered but not dampened tourism in countries where their tourism industry is sophisticated and well developed. As a rule, we don’t market unsafe areas; we have witnessed relative calm in our core tourism areas such as South- west, South-east, Abuja, and a few other places. Tourism accounts for one in every 11 jobs globally, but in Nigeria there is curinsufficient data on the number of people cur rently employed. However, the large numbers of people working in the over 11,000 hotels, in the close to 30,000 restaurants nationwide are skilled, semiskilled and unskilled labour force’s contribution of tourism to the employment force. This is another success story, which has not been fully exploited. Other success stories include inclusive growth where business tour tourism thrives and this has created a vast range of business opportunities. Another area is that SME’s growth is fastest with tourism, because 95% of tourism businesses are small scale. If our tourism industry is well developed, it will address social inequality. Again, Nigeria under tourism is host to some big international hotel chains like Starwood, Hilton, Intercontinental, to mention a few, and a few continental players like Protea and Southern Sun. Tourism goes beyond the economic benefits, it also has social and health benefits. It is a major driver of citizen diplomacy, as nationals meet for conferences, as we have in Abuja and sporting activities, relationwhich help share experiences, build relation ships and mutual understanding. Not to over sell the success of tourism in Nigeria, there are investment opportunities and incentives like tax holidays, tax reliefs and of recent, we have introduced work permits instead of expartriate quota for the tourism industry.

We cannot build an economy where corruption is the working capital. It is also not possible to over-emphasise the importance of our fight against corruption. It is felt in some quarters that we may be sacrificing the economy while the fight rages. This is most emphatically not so, because the fulcra of our economic policy are privatisation and liberalisation, and both would gain very little traction if the general socio-economic landscape is not de-corrupted or sanitised. In effect, in an environment of the unbridled corruption that Nigeria has become, all policy implementation in attempts at growth and expansion would be likened to swimming against a powerful tide that invariably pushes us backwards. A sanitised Nigeria will have a quickening impact on FDI consequent upon a boosted investor confidence.

Nigeria is in recession. How do you react to this?

I would say we are in interesting times. But, on a more serious note, we are in a correctional interregnum, owing to the monumental and far reaching restructuring this government has had the courage to embark upon. These are not times to discourage Nigerians and investors alike; these are interesting times- times of change and, consequently, the mother of all opportunities.

What solutions will you proffer?

Of my almost 30 years as a career woman, of which 21 years was spent in the banking and finance industry, we cannot help but embrace Fiscal Discipline, Tight Monetary Controls, Fiscal Sustainability Plan (FSP), Improved IGR Drive and entice Diaspora Funds. Yes, Diaspora Nigerians should be our financial ambassadors; $20 billion remitted by them represents only a tip of the iceberg of the investable funds available. Let’s not forget another controversial topic, ‘the devaluation of the naira’. Let me say categorically that regardless of whether our exchange rate is, $1 to N1 or $1 to N400, the ingredients of success remain timeless and non-changing. The virtues of hardwork, discipline and diligence will always stand one in good stead. Exchange rate is neither a deterrent to success and growth nor a hindrance to creativity, ingenuity, and entrepreneurship.

Interestingly, every devaluation yields new and varied opportunities, hence the dictum ‘necessity is the mother of invention.’

Would you say we are in a crisis situation?

Let me respond by saying that the Mandarin word for crisis is a compound of two ideas: Danger and Opportunity. It is not so by mere happenstance that dire times bring forth heroes and heroines, great men and women of historic relevance. It is therefore pertinent for all of us to help make Nigeria great by deploying our globally recognised creativity, intellectual prowess and entrepreneurship to solve our existential problems and create wealth for the benefit and happiness of all. These are also the conditions under which tourism can flourish whilst also adding its quota.

Nigeria, for instance, presently has 80 million phone users; this constitutes 80 million

What would you say is the way forward?

Uwechue-Mbanefo

markets or transactional platforms if explored, with each unit potentially yielding streams of income. This is a huge market.

For example Nigerians spend $110m annually procuring visas to visit Dubai because Dubai has infrastructure and the right tourist attractions. Imagine what that amount can do if retained in the system.

For once, we have a minister that understands how the tourism value chain functions and is doing everything within his power to make it a success. He is so passionate about culture and tourism finding its rightful place in the economy and society, thereby making our job more seamless and effective.

What are the solutions and are there success stories?

First, let me mention our success stories.

Our entertainment industry is a huge success; Nigerian music has made a major impact worldwide. Nollywood has spawned the third largest movie Industry in the world, creating over two million jobs to date. Tourism has created community empowerment through festivals and carnivals. Carnival Calabar is

Solutions include embracing domestic tourism. NTDC has signed a number of MoUs that will impact directly on all sectors of the local economy.

How supportive has the ministry been about your initiatives?

So, this means there are no challenges?

The potential of tourism is incredible, as it accounts for over 30% of the world’s export services. The sector, globally, accounts for 260 million jobs worldwide, whilst the UNWTO predicts that 296 million jobs will be created by 2019. Tourism had a global GDP contribution of 9.3% in 2014 and $7.3trn revenue in 2015 with 10% contribution which currently dropped to 9.8% due to global crisis, and it is expected to climb back up by end of 2016.

The way forward for Nigeria is the development of infrastructure like roads to access the tourist sites, water, public utilities and power.

Power is crucial, as this will reduce overhead costs of hotels, which is transferred to guests, among other reasons. We must have a National carrier to do domestic and international flights and encourage Nigerians in diaspora to visit home more often and spend in Nigeria. We need a more liberal visa regime that will encourage visa on arrival. The role of the private sector in driving tourism cannot be over emphasised.

Nollywood is the third largest in the world purely by its own sweat, exporting our cultural heritage worldwide, but we are not celebrating them the way we should. We must upgrade our organically grown products to be more refined and appealing to a more diverse audience, and encourage them to shoot their movies at our tourism sites.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

TRAVEL&LEiSuRE

Starwood Hotels Ramps Up Nigeria Portfolio

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ccelerating growth in emerging markets across the globe, Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc, recently announced the signing of Four Points Benin City, Nigeria. Owned

by Eagle Hospitality and Leisure Limited, the sleek new Four Points hotel is built for the modern traveler with an emphasis on approachable design and stylish comfort. Conveniently located in the heart of Benin City – the capital city of Edo State, the hotel is situated within a five-minute drive to the airport and no more than 10 minutes from the government and business district.

“Four Points by Sheraton Benin City will further consolidate our strong Nigeria portfolio, opening up yet another emerging destination for international travel. With five hotels operating and another four in the pipeline, including Four Points Benin City, Nigeria is already one of our strongest markets in the region, and the signing of this hotel reinforces the growing demand for affordable lifestyle brands in rapidly developing markets,” said Michael Wale, President, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Europe,Africa and Middle East.

Mr. Chris Oshiafi, Group Managing Director of PanAfrican Capital Plc and Chairman of Eagle Hospitality and Leisure Limited, said: “We are delighted to introduce the popular Four Points brand to Benin City and expect this new hotel to meet the rising demand for high-caliber lodging in this fast-growing market, soon emerging as a leading choice among business and leisure travelers.”

Starwood Hotels and Resorts

Ooni of Ife Hosts Ileya Omo Oodua Festival in December In furtherance of his drive for peace, unity and cohesion amongst the Yoruba race home and abroad, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ile-Ife is hosting a one week festival titled Ileya Omo Oduduwa festival this December. The festival which was earlier planned for this August was postponed by the revered king mainly because of the reason that for centuries, the month of December is regarded as the month of celebration of Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba race. Speaking to journalists at the declaration, Mr Wale Williams, the coordinator of the festival and managing director of Franchise & Enterprise Concerns limited said “the Arole Oduduwa is determined to ensure that his effort at bringing together every person born as Yoruba anywhere in the world is achieved, our own job is to ensure that it is well celebrated by all as one people with a pride of rich culture, and language.”

The festival which is slated to take off with seven different large floats coming in from all parts and entering Ile-Ife on the opening day depicts the seven children whose descendants all make up the Yoruba race with over 500 million in population with descendants in 85 countries of the world.

“We want to rival the Rio carnival by hosting the most colourful home coming festival ever. Today, the Middle East is now a no go area for tourism; the world is looking to us in Africa to provide that tourism supplement and now Nigeria is still an untapped tourism haven. Beating drums, showing colourful dances and displays, and celebrating our people, cuisine and culture are not fetish things that many of us are fond of singing.

We need to be proud of who we are and start talking with one voice to show our true positive selves as a race,” Wale said.

Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II

African Union Issues Pan African E-Passports Travel and tourism within Africa may become easier soon, at least for some.

Currently, holders of an African passport require visas to visit at least 30 countries on the continent.

The African Union is seeking to change Le Meridien Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort, Akwa Ibom

Sallah Celebration at Sheraton, Lemeridien, Fourpoints The global lifestyle hotel brands in Nigeria made up of Sheraton Lagos, Sheraton Abuja, Four Points by Sheraton, Lagos, Le Meridien Ogeyi Place- Port Harcourt and Le Meridien Ibom Hotel& Golf Resorts,Akwa Ibom are happy to unveil their exciting Eid packages to loyal

customers and Patrons. The Hotel teams have extended their goodwill to families and friends with bountiful offers on room rates starting from N39, 999 at the Sheraton Abuja for two. Rates are valid for stays from the 8th till the 18th of September 2016.

this with the launch of a pan-African epassport. African heads of state and top African Union (AU) officials will be the first to receive this new travel document.

The plan is to issue the passport to all eligible Africans in the next three years.

Alexandre De Juniac Takes over at IATA The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced that Alexandre de Juniac has officially taken on the role of Director General and CEO of the organisation. He succeeds Tony Tyler, who served as IATA’s DG and CEO since 2011 and had announced his retirement.

“I am excited to be taking on this great responsibility.

IATA plays a critical role in facilitating safe, efficient and sustainable global air transport. Tony Tyler has raised the bar through his achievements over the last five years. With the guidance of our Board and the support of our membership, my aim is to ensure that IATA continues to deliver the value that our members and partners rely upon,” said de Juniac.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • September 10, 2016

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media & marketing

Hard Knocks for Sagging as Glo Professor Johnbull Hits 8th Epiosde

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ndecent dressing, epitomised by sagging among the youths, received hard knocks on Tuesday as the Glo-sponsored sitcom, Professor Johnbull, aired its 8th episode aptly tagged ‘Happening Guys’.

The lead cast in the TV Series, Kanayo O. Kanayo, who played the role of Professor Johnbull, was in his reformist best as he took the sagging Dudus, starred by the popular comedian Ayo Makun, aka AY, to the cleaners for wearing his trousers on the beneath his buttocks.

The opening scene of the episode saw Dudus, an itinerant fabric merchant, coming to the house of the professor to see Churchill (professor Johnbull’s son).

His “been-to” mannerism attracted the professor who was shocked to find Dudus in Churchill’s room with his pet daughter, Elizabeth. The sight of his sagging pants which was hanging on his hips with his

pants exposed, immediately put the professor off and he did not hesitate in sending him out of his house. He warned Elizabeth that he would not want to see the cloth vendor near his house again.

On his way from Mai Doya’s place, where the professor displayed his penchant for austere lifestyle by causing the yam seller to measure a tuber of yam before buying it, Professor Johnbull accosted the philandering Flash Boy and Jumoke Janet, playing on the street and upbraided Flash for joining the community of sagging boys.

Interestingly, Jumoke, the impressionable and pretentious lady in the series, also condemned sagging. The professor’s rage against indecent dressing was not mitigated by the noble display of respect for the elderly by Flash who volunteered to assist in carrying Professor Johnbull’s bag home as he dismissed the philanderer at the gate, asking him to “go home and dress

properly.”

The erudite scholar received the greatest shock of his life when on entering his house, he met Elizabeth and Dudus, with Dudus doing the sagging stuff for Elizabeth who was completely mesmerised by the mode of dressing of the cloth merchant; a man who had a waist size of 34 and “swag size of 60.” Infuriated by the audacity of Dudus to come back to his house, Professor Johnbull went for his cutlass and chased the indecent dressing Dudus out of his compound.

After a father-and-daughter discussion, Professor Johnbull acceded to Elizabeth’s request to go out on a dinner date with Dudus. The outcome of the date was the climax of the storyline as Dudus was thoroughly embarrassed for forgetting his purse at home. This story was hard for the operators of the restaurant to believe because of his sagging, which unwittingly

with

KASIE ABONE 08057511558 (sms only)

portrayed him as irresponsible.

Coming home like the prodigal son, Elizabeth came to terms with her father’s position on decent dressing, admitting that if Dudus had dressed decently to the restaurant, his narrative about his misplaced purse would have been more credible.

To underscore the axiom that a man is addressed the way he dresses, Professor Johnbull, in his usual closing remarks, told viewers that he did something analytical by persuading Dudus to dress decently and take Elizabeth to a different restaurant where the story of the misplaced purse was re-enacted. He said Dudus was believed because he dressed decently.

Aired on Tuesday NTA Network, NTA International on DSTV Channel 251 and NTA on StarTimes at 8.30 p.m., the repeat broadcast of ‘Happening Guys’ comes up this Friday at 8.30. p.m. on the same channels.

LG Electronics Offer Unprecedented 10-Year Warranty

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n a bid to satisfy its teeming consumers and deliver convenience, LG Electronics, a leader in home appliances and consumer electronics, recorded unprecedented technological advancements with the core technology designed for some of its products. These achievements came with critical acclaim along with the patent right.

This core technology breakthrough gave LG the confidence to back it up with 10-year warranty, first of its kind in Home Appliance category in Nigeria. The products covered by the 10 year warranty include LG Refrig-

erators and Chest Freezers, with Linear and Smart Inverter Compressors, LG Washing Machines with Inverter Direct Drive Motor, LG Charcoal Lighting Heater in microwave oven and LG Cordless vacuum cleaner with Smart Inverter Motor.

Speaking on the innovation, General Manager, Home Appliances Division, LG Electronics, West Africa operations Mr. Jiung Park said: “At LG, we understand that durability is just as important as strong performance. A large range of our products come backed by 10-year warranty, ensuring worry-free operation year after year. LG

Electronics is the first electronic brand in Nigeria to offer a decade-long warranty of reliability on a large array of its product offerings. The 10 year warranty offering covers only specific parts of the selected products from the date of purchase.”

LG Door in Door and Side by side refrigerator utilizes LG’s revolutionary Inverter Linear Compressor which enables the refrigerator to consume 32 percent less energy and produce 25 percent less noise. Employing a linear piston drive instead of a conventional reciprocating drive, LG’s advanced Inverter Linear Compressor generates less internal

friction than other compressor systems. The reduction in friction results in lower energy requirements, less noise production, as well as greater reliability and durability for the compressor. The Inverter Linear Compressor creates an optimal temperature balance inside the refrigerator, helping to extend the amount of time that food stays fresh. In a test conducted by the German scientific and technical association, Verband der Elektrotechnik Elektronik Informationstechnik (VDE), the Inverter Linear Compressor was found to have an estimated lifespan of 20 years.

VINTAGE

Toronto International Film Festival Open’s Big with FilmOne

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Olaoluwakitan Babatunde

xactly two years since its inception, FilmOne has grown to becoming Nigeria’s premier distribution and production company and no where has this been more established than at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival where the distribution arm of the business represents 6 out of the 8 films selected to showcase Nollywood and the production arm of the business were the producers behind two very popular films screening at the festival. The Wedding party (2016) and Taxi Driver: Oko Ashewo (2015) With close to a hundred stakeholders from actors, producers, directors, investors and the usual uninvited guests expected to grace Toronto from the 8th to the 18th this month, never has Nollywood gotten such an high profile endorsement on the international stage and have been able to back the recognition with global standards films Nollywood has never been able to put together a strong showcase of movies like ’76 (Izu Ojukwu), The Arbitration (Niyi Akinmolayan), Taxi Driver (Oko Ashewo

by Daniel Emeke Oriahi), Just Not Married (Uduak-Obong-Patrick), Okafor’s Law (Omoni Oboli), Green White Green (Abba Makama), The Wedding Party (Kemi Adetiba) and 93 Days (Steve Gukas) all coming out the same year in the box office.

Its important to note that never in the history of our modern cinema reign have we enjoyed a consistent flow of qualitative box office movies like we have experienced since 2014.

According to Don Omope, head of Films and content strategy at FilmOne, about the company’s hugely successful movie production programme that has produced

Richard Mofe Damijo(RMD) and Iretiola Doyle,Dozie’s parent. Dozie, the bridegroom as played by Banky W

films like Lunch Time Heroes (1st kid’s film) Chasing Hanifa (Hausa), Taxi Drive: Oko Ashewo (Yoruba) and FilmOne’s latest movie The wedding Party (English blockbuster) made in conjunction with Ebonylife, Koga Studios and Inkblot production.

“I make films solely on their creative merit and commercial potential and thats why our programme is successful, we saw a gap in the market to collaborate with talented filmmakers to co-produce films by providing a creative and commercial support system for them”. He continued.

“Toronto is here today on merit, and the reason can only be attributed to one thing which is the professionalisation of Nollywood. New producers coming into the industry from better structured professions like banking, engineering, Law etc and introducing a discipline of purpose and commercial ethics to the making of films. The growth and rapid expansion of cinemas multiplexes/ distribution and perhaps most significantly the strong support system for directors to make better creative and commercial films”.

Setup by the charismatic Kene Mkparu,

MD of Filmhouse cinemas, FilmOne is fast growing to rival the strong success of its sister company Filmhouse cinemas which just added the first ever IMAX cinema in West Africa to its portfolio of cinemas across Nigeria.

As the country celebrates and marvel at what is a truly impressive outing for Nollywood, The Toronto International Film Festival’s City to City programme’s focus on Lagos is a celebration of the emergence of Nollywood as a growing professional film industry with all facets of the industry working together professionally.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

INSIGHT

Nigeria: The Dearth and Death of Ideas

Jon West

“Ideas are capital, the rest is just money” - Deutsche Bank Advertisement.

“The Man with the idea is the hero” –Tom Peters, Management Guru

O

n the 29th of August 2016, the Finance Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mrs Kemi Adeosun finally admitted that the Nigerian economy had slipped into a real recession, from the previously touted “technical recession”. She also lamented the precipitous slide to economic anomie, but unfortunately gave no new ideas for a quick exit from the economic doldrums and solace to the frightened populace, already battered by a series of fiscal and economic mishaps , inflicted by the actions and inactions of Government. Truth be told, the resource rich countries, especially those totally dependent on the sale of natural resources, without much value-addition, from Brazil, Venezuela, to the Middle East, Nigeria, Angola and even mighty Canada, are in the throes of a great economic reckoning, courtesy of the collapse of commodity prices, especially the price of crude oil.

That Nigeria was going to suffer the economic and social consequences of its perennial and almost unthinking dependence on crude oil sales revenues for its economic and even political survival, was always a fact lurking behind the shadows of its contrived “wealth” and rebased Gross Domestic Product(GDP), which elevated it to the pinnacle of African economies in 2014. A cursory look at the state of the national economy in the last days of the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, would have shown a foreboding taste of the bad things to come. However, there was always a sense that the managers of the economy were quite confident about the way forward, through the looming dark clouds of economic decline, ensuing from the plummeting price of the commodity that has always held the incongruous assembly of antagonistic ethnicities and tendencies together , against all odds.

With the vastly experienced former World Bank Managing Director, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, at the helm of affairs, ably assisted by a galaxy of international economic management stars – Dr Femi

The President can begin this journey, by giving genuine Independence to the fiscal, monetary, planning, petroleum, legal and other agencies of Government. This enabling Independence will ensure rapid decision making and therefore avoid the policy lethargy,somersaults and inconsistencies that have ensured the decline of the Nigerian economy and the current hopelessness pervading the national psyche. The input of genuine men of ideas is immediately needed, in order to avoid the national descent to socio-economic perdition and it’s unthinkable and unintended consequences

Buhari

Adesina, formerly of the Food and Agricultural Organization, Dr Olusegun Aganga, ex Goldman Sachs Managing Director, Ms. Arunmah Oteh, ex African Development Bank, and a myriad of other players, there was always hope that we were in the hands of qualified and experienced ship captains that would surely sail us into safe harbour. In spite of the open and sometimes nauseating corruption in the socio-political economy , there were mitigating ideas and policies that were designed to make the best of a bad situation – the Treasury Single Account(TSA) formulated to get control of Government revenue flows from Ministries, Departments and Agencies, the Integrated Personnel and Payroll system, which weeded out ghost employees, who had sapped the Government of billions of Naira in fictitious overheads, the Electronic Wallet system developed by the cerebral Adesina, to checkmate and ultimately destroy the Northern mafia alliance of Agriculture Ministers, ” Permanent” Secretaries, Directors and fellow travelers that ensured that Government’s agricultural programs did not yield any good results, because of the unbelievable corruption in the fertiliser subsidy program of Government, terribly abused by the foregoing dramatis personae.

In the automobile sector, a new policy was promulgated to ensure that Nigeria, which imported $5billion worth of automobiles in 2013, would transit to value-added assembly and ultimately manufacture of our great obsession, automobiles, usually and almost exclusively manufactured outside of Nigeria. Innosson Motor Manufacturing, Proforce, Ford Motors, Hyundai, Nissan, Toyota and a host of other manufacturers, promptly set up shop in Nigeria, leading to a mini boom in jobs, direct and indirect, in that very important sector of the Nigerian economy.

Rice production boomed and food import bills plummeted as the positives of the agricultural policies of Government kicked in. In the power sector, Professor Nebo finally delivered the power sector deregulation that is necessary to jump-start power sector expansion and the anticipated Great Leap Forward in industrialization, which is anticipated to, like it did in China, lift millions of people out of the debilitating state that is poverty. All this was done in a regime of currency stability and favourable hard currency inflows. We could go on and on about the liberating effects of Government policies steeped in and driven by the ideas that separate the gifted from the mundane, in the the management of the economy of a developing nation with serious economic and social problems.

Fast forward to Nigeria of mid to late 2015 and thereafter, in the wake of the ill-fated second term bid of the hitherto shoeless son of the Otuoke canoe carver, which ambition was totally unacceptable to local and international guardians of Africa’s perennial underdevelopment, a new Sheriff rides into town on a white horse, asserting his independence from those who wangled him into office, a patent fallacy, if ever there was one. However, instead of heading into a shootout with the dying economy and with the assistance of a coterie of Sheriff deputies in the guise of ministers of the Federal republic, the new man in town set about castigating the very institution of deputising sheriffs that had always

served the system well in a democracy. Calling them noise makers , he proceeded to, like Sheriff Doc Holliday of Tombstone, Arizona in the Western cult movie “Gunfight at the OK Corral” , fight the economic gangsters and gremlins alone, in a fit of hubris and sheer pettiness, to the apparent chagrin of the populace and increasingly, and perhaps dangerously, the power blocs that elevated him to a position that confirms the validity of the Peter Principle.

Today, we have a Government, run by, with all due respect, people, who while having intimidating academic credentials, have in reality no idea of how to use their knowledge to solve problems that pose a clear and present danger to the survival of the Nigerian economy, and by extension , the very fabric of national cohesion.

Instead of rolling up their sleeves, pulling themselves up by their bootstraps, the reluctantly deputized gunslingers of the APC Government , have regressed to blame games, ineptitude, fear, panic and sheer chicanery, in the face of a crucial battle for the soul of the Nigerian economy and the totally devastated populace, now wondering whether the promise of change was a continuation of the 419(obtaining by false declaration) business mentality of a certain genre of the ruling class. What they propound are promises of the ability to manufacture pencils by 2018 and import of elephant grass seedlings, originally sourced from Nigeria and genetically enhanced by Brazilians, from the land of the Samba , soccer and Zika virus.

In November 2008, the new US President, Barack Obama, inherited the worst economic conditions since the Great Depression of the 1930s, with banks and auto manufacturing industries, the Crown Jewels of the American economy, in ruins.

He immediately assembled an Ideas Factory of financial, legal and manufacturing gurus, who went to work with the gusto of those who are gifted to solve problems and are acutely aware of their gifts and their responsibilities to the general population.

Within his first three years, the banking and auto sectors had been sanitized with very few culprits going to jail.

In fact some of the culprits were conscripted to use their hitherto misapplied talents for the rescue mission. Glaring corruption and gross mismanagement were responsible for the 2008 global economic crash, triggered by the collapse of the too- bigto- fail centuries old Lehman Brothers bank; but instead of wasting precious time and resources on a contrived anti-corruption agenda and an assertion of high morality, Obama went into battle, hitting the ground running with the full retinue of Ideas Men like Ben Bernanke of the Federal Reserve Bank, Attorney General Holder, Chief of Staff Ram Emmanuel, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and the rest of the cast of Super heroes of ideas and intellectual capital. As he is about to effectively leave Government in November 2016, President Obama can look back to a successful tenure in most aspects of American life, with the incalculable help of a supporting cast of people of ideas.

The foregoing foray into the successes of the ideas driven Government of Barack Obama and to a lesser extent that of President Goodluck Jonathan, is a rallying cry to President Muhammadu Buhari, to endeavour to assemble a team of ideas men and women and give them the respect and support they deserve in the quest to rescue Nigeria from economic angst and eventual oblivion. An American President once stated that “Men repeat history and then blame history for repeating itself.”

President Buhari, presided over an economic disaster in 1984/85, for reasons of hubris, asceticism and a resort to petty high morality in a contrived war against corruption and indiscipline, which saw his rapid demise as a political and military force.

He should, like Chinua Achebe’s proverbial man whose palm kernel had been cracked by a benevolent Chi(God), show some humility at being given a second bite at the cherry of political power and not repeat the mistakes of 1984/85. He should avoid, by all means possible, the historical opprobrium of the man who presided over the economic and social decline of Nigeria, even when given a second improbable chance, like another admirer and precursor, now ensconced in shameful solitude in a hilltop mansion in Ota. The President can begin this journey, by giving genuine Independence to the fiscal, monetary, planning, petroleum, legal and other agencies of Government. This enabling Independence will ensure rapid decision making and therefore avoid the policy lethargy,somersaults and inconsistencies that have ensured the decline of the Nigerian economy and the current hopelessness pervading the national psyche. The input of genuine men of ideas is immediately needed, in order to avoid the national descent to socio-economic perdition and it’s unthinkable and unintended consequences.

Jon West,IDP Camp, Banki, Borno State.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

auTo

Ford, Jose Cuervo Team up to Make Car Parts Stories by Bennett Oghifo

F

ord Motor Company is teaming up with Jose Cuervo® to explore the use of the tequila producer’s agave plant byproduct to develop more sustainable bioplastics to employ in Ford vehicles.

Ford and Jose Cuervo are testing the bioplastic for use in vehicle interior and exterior components such as wiring harnesses, HVAC units and storage bins. Initial assessments suggest the material holds great promise due to its durability and aesthetic qualities. Success in developing a sustainable composite could reduce vehicle weight and lower energy consumption, while paring the use of petrochemicals and the impact of vehicle production on the environment.

“At Ford, we aim to reduce our impact on the environment,” said Debbie Mielewski, Ford senior technical leader, sustainability research department. “As a leader in the sustainability space, we are developing new technologies to efficiently employ discarded materials and fibres, while potentially reducing the use of petrochemicals and light-weighting our vehicles for desired fuel economy.”

The growth cycle of the agave plant is a minimum seven-year process. Once harvested, the heart of the plant is roasted, before grinding and extracting its juices for distillation. Jose Cuervo uses a portion of the remaining agave fibres as compost for its farms, and local artisans make crafts and agave paper from the remnants.

Now, as part of Jose Cuervo’s broader sustainability plan, the tequila maker is joining forces with the automaker to develop a new way to use its remnant fibres.

“Jose Cuervo is proud to be working with Ford to further develop our agave sustainability plan,” said Sonia Espinola, director of heritage for the Cuervo Foundation and master tequilera. “As the world’s No. 1-selling tequila, we could never have imagined the hundreds of agave plants we

All-new Ford Ranger on the production line at Silverton Assembly Plant, South Africa

were cultivating as a small family business would eventually multiply to millions. This collaboration brings two great companies together to develop innovative, earth-conscious materials.”

Like Ford Motor Company, Jose Cuervo is family-owned and operated. Founded in 1795, it has been making tequila for more than 220 years with the same experience, craftsmanship and recipes that have been handed down generation through generation.

The collaboration with Jose Cuervo is the latest

example of Ford’s innovative approach to product and environmental stewardship through the use of biomaterials. Ford began researching the use of sustainable materials in its vehicles in 2000.

Today, the automaker uses eight sustainable-based materials in its vehicles including soy foam, castor oil, wheat straw, kenaf fibre, cellulose, wood, coconut fibre and rice hulls.

According to the United Nations Environment Programme, five billion metric tons of agricultural biomass waste is produced annually.Abyproduct

of agriculture, the supply of materials is abundant and often underutilised. Yet the materials can be relatively low cost, and can help manufacturers to offset the use of glass fibres and talc for more sustainable, lightweight products.

“There are about 181 kilograms of plastic on a typical car,” said Mielewksi. “Our job is to find the right place for a green composite like this to help our impact on the planet. It is work that I’m really proud of, and it could have broad impact across numerous industries.”

Porsche Macan Turbo with Performance Package Tops Model line

A

s the sports car of the compact SUV segment, the Macan has been setting standards in terms of driving dynamics since its debut and now Porsche is upping the ante once again.

Equipped with the Performance Package, the Macan Turbo now tops off the model line, impressing with enhanced driving properties, increased agility and an even greater emotional appeal.

After the performance enhancement, the twinturbocharged, 3.6-litre V6 engine delivers 440 hp (324 kW). With 40 hp (30 kW) more than the Macan Turbo, this figure places the new variant firmly in the top spot of this model line. The car now accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds (a reduction of 0.4 seconds), and achieves a new top speed of 272 km/h (an increase of 6 km/h). The maximum torque has also risen to 600 Nm (an increase of 50 Nm) and is available to the driver across a broad rev range of between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. This also

increases the tractive force: In Sport Plus mode, the time taken to accelerate from 80 km/h to 120 km/h has dropped to 2.9 seconds (a reduction of 0.2 seconds). Depending on the tyres, fuel consumption (in line with the NEDC) for the new top-of-the-range Macan model is between 9.4 l/100 km and 9.7 l/100 km.

However, it is not just the engine power that is given a boost in the Macan Turbo equipped with the Performance Package – a newly developed brake system, lowered body, controlled sports chassis, Sport Chrono Package and sports exhaust system are all fitted as standard. The front axle features grooved brake discs with a diameter of 390 millimetres, which are 30 millimetres larger than the brake discs fitted on the non-Performance Package variant of the Macan Turbo. The discs are gripped by six-piston brake callipers completed with a red paint finish. Available at the push of a button, the optimally tuned Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) delivers an exceptionally sporty position on the road with

2017 Porsche Macan Turbo

vehicle lowered by 15 millimetres. Air suspension with self-levelling function and height adjustment, lowered by ten millimetres, is also available as standard.

With the Sport Chrono Package, drivers can ramp

up the performance of the Macan Turbo even further. In Sport Plus mode, this package ensures the chassis, engine and transmission are tuned to sporty effect – accompanied by an even more emotional sound from the sports exhaust system.

Dodge Durango: A Family Vehicle with Attitude

T

he 2016 Dodge Durango is back with more aggressive styling than any other modern SUV. It packs a full-size punch with state-of-the art features that would make any home entertainment system jealous. This is the most technologically advanced SUV in its class. The Durango offers three rows of seating, a range of 3.6-Liter V6 24-Valve VVT and 5.7-Liter V8 HEMI® MDS VVT engines and a choice of rear-wheel drive or All-wheel drive.

Over the years, the Durango has been known for its confident handling and composed, comfortable ride. Inside, the Durango offers an attractive and upscale design, with class-competitive quality and features. The second and third rows offer enough room for most families.

This seven-seater comes with more space than any other vehicle including the best-in-class UConnect info entertainment system. The available Uconnect® 8.4 features a Class-Exclusive 8.4-inch touchscreen, along with available UconnectAccess.

A happy backseat makes everyone happy. Pop in an available Blu-ray™ disc for your backseat passengers with the available Class-Exclusive 9-inch dual-screen Blu-ray and DVD Entertainment System with High-Definition Media Interface (if requested). The Class-Exclusive Seven-inch Driver Information Digital Cluster Display and Uconnect® System, to the Speed Control feature and even your iPhone® mobile device and other compatible smartphones. The Keyless enter “n” go entry as well as the standard steering wheel-mounted

paddle shifters give you complete control of the eight-speed automatic transmission.

The Durango features a Class-Exclusive LED racetrack tail lamp that consists of 192 individual LEDs blended to form one seamless ribbon of glowing red light. Projector headlamps with available LED daytime running lamps light up the road like a red carpet. Available auto-leveling technology adjusts the headlamp beams’ aim for slight changes in road surface elevation so you’ll know what’s coming. Available Automatic HighBeam Control Headlamps switch from high- to low-beams and back again when oncoming light is sensed, while available low-beam 3headlamps enhance nighttime visibility.

The Citadel trim adds mostly appearance-based

features to the Limited, including larger alloy wheels, dual exhaust (which raises the V6’s output by two horsepower), and Nappa leather upholstery. A power sunroof and navigation are also standard.

The performance-oriented R/T trim comes with a 360-horsepower V8 engine, a sport-tuned suspension, ventilated front seats, and perforated leather upholstery. A major standard feature for the Dodge Durango is the 18” aluminum wheels (with optional 20” wheels), fog lights, optional integrated roof rail crossbars as well as available heated side mirrors.

With over 60 safety and security features, the dodge Durango is a trusted bodyguard that’s always on duty.

27

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

auTo SAFE DRIVING

JONAS AGWU

with

(Asst Corps Marshal) Zonal Commanding Officer Zone RS7 Abua phone 08077690700 FRSC TOLL FREE NO 122 Email:j.agwu@frsc.gov.ng

The Ember Months Rhyme All-new 2017 Kia Cadenza

Kia Introduces 8-speed FWD Automatic Transmission Stories by Bennett Oghifo

K

ia Motors has revealed details of its advanced new eight-speed automatic transmission (8AT),engineeredfor use in front-wheel drive vehicles.

Kia’s new front-wheel drive 8AT (FWD 8AT) has been developed in-house by the Korean manufacturer, engineered to offer a high level of mechanical efficiency and smooth gearshifts.

Crucially, the new FWD 8AT occupies the same space as a conventional six-speed automatic transmission, and weighs 3.5 kg less.

Kia’s engineers already have experience of developing eight-speed transmissions for rear-wheel drive vehicles, mounting the transmission longitudinally and sending power to the rear axle.

However, incorporating the same number of gears into a front-wheel drive car is in-

credibly challenging, due to packaging constraints and the need to mount the transmission transversely, competing with the engine, suspension and auxiliary components for space under the bonnet.

Intelligent packaging...

Under development since 2012, the development program for the breakthrough transmission led Kia to patent 143 new technologies to ensure a high level of performance and efficiency in

a compact structure. This new transmission enables smooth acceleration from standstill, as well as greater fuel efficiency, improved NVH characteristics, and more decisive acceleration athighspeedsthananautomatic transmission with fewer gears.

To improve the 8AT’s fuel economy, Kia engineers significantly reduced the size of the oil pump (the main source of power loss in an automatic transmission) and simplified the structure of the valve body.

Nissan Previews Impressive Display of New, Old

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he 2017 Nissan GT-R NISMO will make its U.S. debut at the 2016 Japanese Classic Car Show. The 12th annual event will take place in Long Beach, California, on Saturday, September 24 and Nissan has also teamed up with Matchbox to show off a brand new scale model toy.

The company’s booth will be buzzing throughout the event with special giveaways, including some of the new Matchbox 1:64-scale models. See a preview of Nissan’s lineup below.

“Nissan is looking forward to returning to the Japanese Classic Car Show as both a participant and an event partner,” said Michael Bunce, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. “It’s an ideal venue to show off our latest supercar – the 2017 GT-R NISMO – as well as some current and vintage racing and street machines.”

Meanwhile, the 2020 Nissan GT-R will be a hybrid with hypercar performance, GT-R, Expert Predicts. The final refresh for the R35-generation 2017 Nissan GT-R was just unveiled, and

2017 Nissan GT-R NISMO

although it may not look that different to the average passerby, Matt McCulloh was still more than impressed.

McCulloh is the co-founder of the North American GT-R Owners Club and helps run the GTRLife Forum. He has owned three GT-Rs and currently drives a 2015 Nissan GT-R NISMO with serial number 1, which is the first

GT-R NISMO built for the U.S. His daily driver is a Nissan Juke NISMO RS. He shared a few thoughts with AutoGuide.com on the refreshed GT-R: “It looks very much like a car that exists in 2016 versus the original design in 2007,” he said. “It’s almost nine model years old now, and they did very specific things to make it

more competitive with some of the other trends you’re seeing in the industry. Overall, it’s a sharper, more angular car in general.”

He said Nissan GT-R designer Shiro Nakamura pulled a lot of inspiration from the Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo as well as the Proto concept unveiled in 2005.

Toyota Hilux, Corolla Lead the Field

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oyota has recorded its bestAugust newvehicle sales in nine years with the everpopular HiLux and Corolla leading the market for the month and also for the year so far.

The two leading Toyota vehicles were joined by Camry in fifth place, handing Toyota three of the top five spots on the

sales ladder, while LandCruiser wagon had its best result for any month since June 2004.

Toyota’s market-leading August tally of 18,650 sales was more than 28 per cent higher than the same month last year - the company’s best August apart from an extraordinary 2007 result.

August was the second consecutive month in which

Toyota sold more than twice as many new vehicles as any other brand.

Corolla, including the new hybrid variant, was the nation’s top-selling vehicle for the month with dealers distributing 3,554 hatches and sedans, an increase of 16.5 per cent compared with a year earlier.

HiLux was a close second with 3,311 deliveries - a dra-

matic improvement on the corresponding month last year when the previous-generation model was in run-out.

These two acclaimed models have also grabbed the sales “quinella” so far in 2016, although the positions are reversed with HiLux having its nose in front by fewer than 100 units as Australia’s bestseller - 27,618 to 27,525 sales.

G

ratefulMuyiwa Opese is my friend and brother. Muyiwa works with one of the multinationals where safety is key.

He first caught my attention when I noticed his strict adherence to the use of child restraint for his new born baby. Even the wife exemplifies the same safety consciousness whenever she is driving especially with her baby properly strapped at the rear. The opese family are for me the ideal road safety family. I was therefore not shocked when he sent me an interesting message on speed which I find amusing because of the truth contained in the message. When driving the following speed limits, don’t forget these hymns; at a speed of 60km/h,it is well with my soul, at 80km/h God will take care of me; at 100km/h guide me o’thou oh great redeemer; at 120km/h,nearer my God to thee, at 140km/h this world is not my own, at 160km/h Lord I am coming home, at 180km/h Jerusalem t’orun,at 200km/h ao a pade leti odo and at 220km/h ija dopin ogun ti tan.

These rhymes will certainly speak to the conscience of both Christians and Muslims because there are provisions in both the Holy Bible and Holy Koran that emphasises the need for us to take actions that promotes life and not death. Whenever I ponder over the bad driving habits by some motorists and the spate of avoidable road traffic crashes deaths and injuries, three scriptures from the Holy book pops up in my mind .The first and second are taken from the books of Deuteronomy and Ecclesiastes; Both scriptures emphasises God concern and His urge to see us live and not die;According to Deuteronomy 30:19, I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing.

KJV.Therefore,choose life that both thou and thy seed may live. Proverbs 18:21 says, the tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit (NIV) the third is Ecclesiastes 7:17, Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish. Why shouldest thou die before thy time.

According to my cleric officer called Abdul-Aziz, there are provisions of the Holy Koran on the power of the tongue as contained in chapter 48:11 which says; they say with their tongues what is not in their hearts.Say.who can avail you

anything against God, if he desires loss for you, or desires gain for you? The same Holy Koran in chapter 87:14-17 says; you prefer the life of this world, the life after is better for you and the more lasting, and in chapter 50; 20, it says, it is we who control life and death and to us is the destination. Despite these powerful Godly and Fatherly worry, a handful of motorists drive with a death wish on their mind.If you call them suicide driven motorists or maniac on the wheels, you won’t be wrong. These motorists drive as if they have a special immunity or what in our parlance; we call jazz or juju which promises false protection in the event of a crash. I have chosen to guide such motorists on the best way to hit the ground and depopulate the driving population and meet their maker I hate bad, reckless, irresponsible and suicide driven divers who forget that 90percent of deaths recorded globally and in Nigeria affect people aged 15-44years .This category, according to WHO account for 48percent of global road traffic deaths. The WHO report equally notes that from a young age, males are more likely to be involved with about three quarters (73%) of all traffic deaths occurring among men.

It further notes that among young drivers, young males under the age of 25 are almost 3times as likely to be killed in a car crash as young females. . They equally forget that the World Health Organisation (WHO), is worried that one million deaths occur on the world’s road annually with over 50 million injuries sustained through avoidable road traffic crashes.

The figure says WHO, is worse in the sub- Saharan Africa which although accounts for four percent of world vehicle, accounts for over sixty percent of global crashes. According to The Global status report on road safety 2013 from 182 countries, accounting for almost 99% of the world’s population, including Nigeria, road traffic deaths remains 1.24 million per year.

As at 2014,the figure stands at 1.3million. Only 28 countries, covering 7% of the world’s population, have comprehensive road safety laws on five key risk factors: drinking and driving, speeding, and failing to use motorcycle helmets, seat-belts, and child restraints.

Nigeria through the activities of the Federal Road Safety Corps is among these countries.

To Be Concluded Next Week

28

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • September 10, 2016

FAMILY HEALTH

The State Of Your Hair Speaks About Your Health

T

he hair on your head, speaks a lot about your state of health. This is even more so, because the nutrients state and state of your whole body functions, is tied to your the state of your hair.

Just like skin, the condition of your hair is an outward sign of inside health. The cells that make up each strand of hair require a regular supply of key nutrients.

The hair cycle.

Each hair is attached to the scalp via a follicle.

There are between 100,000 and 350,000 hair follicles on the human scalp. Each follicle grows its hair for an average of 1000 days (three years) and then rests for a period of around 100 days (three months) before being shed and a new hair begins to grow. This pattern of active growth followed by the resting period varies significantly from person to person and is influenced by age, diet and our state of health.

What is hair made of?

Hair is primarily made of a protein called keratin that also makes nails and forms the outer protective layer of skin. Each hair consists of three layers: 1. The cuticle - the outer layer, thin and colourless. It acts as the protective layer.

2. The cortex which contains melanin, which is responsible for hair colour.

3. The medulla, the innermost layer which reflects light.

The length of hair that you are able to grow is controlled by the duration of the growing phase, which varies between individuals. We all lose some hair naturally each day when we brush, comb or wash it and as long as new hairs are being produced at the same rate as those falling out, there will be no difference in hair volume. However if the rate of shedding exceeds production the net result is hair loss or thinning.

• exposure to chemicals, • hormonal factors, • thyroid disease, • stress or nutritional factors.

Hair loss We shed hair every day as part of our body’s natural process. Hair loss can happen at any time of life for any number of reasons. When hair loss becomes a concern, it is important to determine the cause before seeking out the appropriate treatment.

with

BOBO BODE -KAYODE

lifeissuesfromwithin@yahoo.com, .Cel, 08053372356

extent. Feed your hair.

The secret to think, strong, shiny strands isn’t an expensive shampoo or fancy salon treatment , it is all about your diet. Eating a variety of healthy foods will give you the mane you have always dreamed of. Feed on these nutrients to begin growing your healthiest hair ever.

Iron and zinc Iron and zinc help hair follicles to grow . We need to be eating lean red meat, which is rich in both nutrients, twice a week. Pair nonmeat sources, such as soybeans or lentils, with a vitamin C-rich food like an orange to boost iron absorption.

Genetic Potential non-dietary factors for hair loss include hair loss is • Age influences hair strength. As we grow older, there is a tendency for our hair fibres to Vitamin D the most become finer and shorter and we may experience Several studies have found that vitamin D loss or greying. It is normal for women to may help activate hair growth. However, D is a common hair hair experience changes to their hair post pregnancy tricky vitamin. Few foods contain it naturally, and although sitting in the sun for a few minas they enter the menopause. loss problem and• Genetic hair loss is the most common hair loss utes a day can help your body produce more experts advise against it due to the affecting men problem affecting men and women. The onset of it, manyexposure to harmful UV rays. Take a is usually during the mid to late 20s and is often increased and women. unavoidable. Women experiencing baldness may 1,000 IU supplement daily, and try these recipes to consult a trained medical professional. that contain vitamin D. The onset is want • Repeatedly losing and regaining weight can Protein its toll on your hair, causing it to become brittle usually during take Protein is one of the building blocks of life, and lacking lustre. Crash diets are often short in vitamins and minerals and over long promoting cell growth and repair—and it boosts the mid to late essential periods of time this type of dieting will reflect your hair strength, too! Women should get at least 46 grams a day (3 ounces of chicken has about 20s and is of- in your hair.

• Hormonal imbalances including thyroid 23). Follow this guide to determine exactly how ten unavoid- dysfunction can produce significant changes to much protein you should be consuming daily. growth and quality. Thyroid function can only able. Women hair Omega-3 Fatty Acids be assessed by blood test. If you are experiencing Eat fatty fish (like salmon) twice a week for considerable hair loss, please consult your GP. experiencing Alopecia areata (AA)hydrated hair, or take up to 1 gram a day of a and EPA supplement. In addition to silky baldness may This condition can result in total loss of hair from DHA the head and sometimes loss of body hair also, hair, omega-3s may help relieve depression and want to con- although most sufferers develop a few isolated are a proven heart-helper. of hair loss, which may correct themselves Factors affecting normal hair sult a trained patches Biotin without any treatment. Since the cause is unknown, A variety of factors can alter the normal hair Eggs are rich in this B vitamin essential for treatment is hard. growth cycle and cause temporary or permanent medical progrowth. (They’re also an excellent source of protein, hair loss including , choline, and vitamin D.) Not an egg fan? You for healthy hair fessional Eating • medication, What you eat affects your hair to a very great could also take 30mcg supplement daily.

• chemotherapy,

GLOBAL SOCCER

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • JUNE 16, 2011

A

WEEKLY PULL-OUT

Shahin Nouri

10.09.2016

The Swiss Racing for Nigeria

Manchester Derby PAGE. 29

30

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

GLOBAL SOCCER

The Swiss Racing for Nigeria Motorsport may not be popular in Nigeria, yet at the last Lamborghini Super Trofeo Championship in Belgium, the Nigerian flag was not only hoisted, its national anthem was also rendered. It was the first for any African country in the history of motorsport– all courtesy of Swiss-born, Shahin Nouri, who chose to race for Nigeria as against his native country, Switzerland. Kunle Adewale reports on why Nouri chose to race for Nigeria, his plan for motorsport for the country and his ambition to climb the podium as champion in the European Lamborghini Championship

M

otorsport, which was initially leisure for Shahin Nouri has now become a serious business.

“When I was a kid my dad was always watching Formula1 on television and that was how I got hooked up. I realised I had some talent to be a good racer. In 2007, I had the opportunity to sit in a racing car, and from then on, there was no turning back and I became very serious with it. Initially, I was doing it as a hobby until 2013 when I started serious racing. In my second race, I won and since then there was no turning back,” he recalled.

In his latest race in Belgium on the F1 circuit of Spa-Francorchamps, Nouri, racing for Nigeria, emerged winner and for the first time in the history of motor-

People always ask me why I do put the Nigerian flag as against Swiss flag whenever I am competing, but I tell them that I live in Nigeria and I am very proud of the country.

Also I want to prove to the world that Nigeria is a great place to live in. My family is in Nigeria and my wife is a Nigerian. I am very proud to live in Nigeria and be the country’s ambassador in motor racing

sport and African Nigeria’s national anthem was rendered.

For 'Fine Boy Racing', as Nouri is fondly called by admirers, it was an amazing feeling winning on one of the most challenging tracks in motorsports– the most loved track among the racing drivers.

Asked what he did differently in his preparation towards the Belgium on the F1 circuit of Spa-Francorchamps, he said: “What I did differently in my preparation was that I did a lot of simulations; I did one in Geneva and another one in Monaco with my coach and we did six hours simulation daily. It was very tiring because it involves a lot of mental process. I have to learn the layout of the track, the breaking points and the turns.”

On how long training he puts in before a competition, he said he trains all year round to keep in shape to know how to react vis-à-vis the setup of the car.

“It’s an ongoing thing because if you stop racing, you will need another six months of vigorous training to be back to your best. The track in Belgium is one track with lots of hills, unlike on a flat track that you drive on the same level of elevation.

There are turns on the track that are very challenging and it takes a lot of courage to go on a maximum speed especially on the turns,” he noted.

It is not common to see a white man compete for an African nation and Nouri was always confronted with the reason for his choice to compete for Nigeria as against his country of birth–Switzerland.

“People always ask me why I do put the Nigerian flag as against Swiss flag whenever I am competing, but I tell them that I live in Nigeria and I am very proud of the country. Also I want to prove to the world that Nigeria is a great place to live in. My family is in Nigeria and my wife is a Nigerian. I am very proud to live in Nigeria and be the country’s ambassador in motor racing. I also want to correct the erroneous impression of the Western world that Nigeria is not

Shahin Nouri displaying his Trophy at the Lamborghini Super Trofeo Championship in Belgium

a safe place to live in. I’m very proud to be living in Nigeria. It’s a country with great opportunities, though its image is not palatable outside but I’m very proud to be representing Nigeria. I see myself as a good ambassador of the country and I can do whatever any Nigeria can do.

“I don’t see Nigeria as big security risk as presented by the western media, though we have the issues of Boko Haram and the likes, but fortunately we don’t witness them in Lagos where I live, which for me is safe. Honestly, I feel safer in Lagos than when I travel to a city like Paris.

In Lagos, I know how and where to go to, but in Paris I don’t whether it’s safe to go to a neighbourhood at a particular time. As for security issues, we have to live within our environment, be careful and be on our toes.

“I don’t think am more careful in Lagos than in Paris or in New York.

On the whole, I think Nigeria is safer than any country in Latin America,” he said.

In spite of his achievements in motor racing and how much he has portrayed Nigeria’s image in good light with the sport, the government of Nigeria has not acknowledged his effort, but he is not losing any sleep over this.

“Nigeria has its problem for now; the country is also in a very difficult situation economically, but I am sure at some point I’ll get some form of recognition from the government. If you look at my car, it was completely branded in Nigeria’s colours with a

Nigerian flag on it. I’m not pressuring anyone; I am just doing it for the love of doing it. It makes me happy when people see me, a white man representing a black country. After all, in football there are lots of African players playing for France, Switzerland, Italy and many other European countries, but now it’s the other way round. It gives me a lot of joy,” he said.

On what is doing to make motorsport more popular in Nigeria, he said.

“What we should do in Nigeria is to put in some infrastructure in place, construct a racing track for young talents. On my part, I am already making enquiries on how to go about making the sport more popular in Nigeria. For now, we don’t have a learning or racing centre.

“Nigeria is the number one country in Africa and I don’t see why we cannot have proper racing track. No doubt, it is capital intensive but with government support, it could be achieved with a land proposed in Lagos or Abuja.

Government could also use Motorsport to promote tourism, which would also boost the economy of the country. There is also another series called Formula E, it is like Formula 1 but with electric car and it is done inside the city. Maybe Lagos State government can delve into that and be the first to host the event in Africa.”

Recalling how he felt after coming out tops in his last race, he said: “I was super happy, when I was driving on the last lap knowing I had won. Though, no member of my family was there, and maybe it was good for me because there was no distraction but I was constantly

31

SEPTEMBER 10, 2016 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

GLOBAL SOCCER

The Swiss Racing for Nigeria Fineboy Racing showing off his Lamborghini Super Trofeo Championship in Belgium

getting in touch with them. My wife has been very supportive of me and the children were very happy because they were watching the race live on television. On the podium I was feeling great.”

In spite of the risk involved in the sport, the Swiss-born motor racer would not discourage any of his children if they decide on motorsport for a career.

“All my children are very interested in motorsport as they watch all my races. They are already into it; so, if they want to go fully into it why not?

It’s risky but if you do it properly it’s okay by me. As long as they are not

G LO B A L S O C C E R ASSISTANT EDITOR KUNLE ADEWALE LAYOUT DESIGNER WAHAB AKINTUNDE THISDAY ON SATURDAY EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI ADEBOWALE THISDAY NEWSPAPERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE

just crazy going into it just because they want to go fast because motor racing is not just about going fast. You have to be prepared. It’s like running a company. You have to ensure the foundation is there, that the talent is there and you are quick enough.

“The logistic have to be there it’s not just about running. It’s not just about jumping into a racing car; it’s really about preparation, logistics and planning. So, if they really have the right mind set, why not. But they must focus on their education first,” he said.

Asked about how he came about the name, 'Fineboy', he said, “When I was doing my racing licence, I asked my wife what name to put on my licence to represent Nigeria and she said, ‘Why not Fineboy?" And before then, sometimes when I’m travelling from Lagos to Abuja at the airport some attendants would look at my direction and say ‘fineboy, come here: And I thought it is a good name and that was how I

adopted the name 'Fineboy Racing'.”

His wife is a third-generation Nigerian with her great grandfather, late Michael Elias, who came to Nigeria in 1886.

At the end of his racing career, Nouri would want to be remembered as being a proud Nigerian. As someone that promoted and showed good side of the country to the outside world.

The story of Nouri would not be complete without mentioning famous Brazilian Fomula1 driver, Ayrton Senna. Watching Senna race inspired the Swiss-Nigerian so much that he always wanted to be like him, if not better. His death was however a sad moment for Fineboy Racing.

He is hoping to come up tops in the overall championship and one day win the European Lamborghini Super Trophy.

“Thanks to those good results I recorded in Belgium, I was first in the first race and was second in the other race, which earned me a lot of points and now I am second placed in the overall championship with only two points behind the first person with two rounds of four races left," Nouri said.

His next race is slated for September 17 and 18 in Germany and another race in December in Valencia, Spain. His focus now is to do well in those races to overtake the current number one racer– Trendy Steve.

ANWFCC Tasks NFF on Women Footbal

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enowned Swiss born women football promoter and Acting President of Amalgamation of Nigeria Women Football Club Coaches (ANWFCC), Hans Kraimer, believes Nigeria would constantly rule women football world if the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), is alive to her responsibility.

As ANWFCC Exco met in Lagos to plan for the 20th All Stars Women Football Carnival, Kraimer was emphatic that Nigeria should not be struggling to appear in global championships if the Amaju Pinnick-led NFF

monitor their preseason championship and midwife the talented footballers being discovered.

The Swiss has been a big boost to ANWFCC and of the view that there is an overflow of women football talents, which, if well managed by the NFF, will rub shoulders with countries like Sweden, United States of America, China and his native Switzerland.

Kraimer appealed to the NFF to not only organise a credible women football league but support ANWFCC when the next All- Stars Carnival hold next year.

32

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

GLOBAL SOCCER

No love lost...Guardiola and Mourinho during their days in the La Liga

Mourinho, Guardiola Re-enact Rivalry in Manchester Derby One of the bitterest rivalries in European footballManchester United and Manchester City will today go head-to-head in the Premier League at Old Trafford. The Citizens have emerged a very strong force in English football since it was bought by Sheikh Mansour, and have transformed from being ‘noisy neighbours’ to true champions. The Citizens had actually won the Premiership twice and runners-up on two occasions in the last five seasons, beating the Red Devils to the title in 2012/13 season. An interesting twist to this encounter is the Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola factor, both having been ‘sworn enemies’ during their time in the Spanish La liga.

After both went their separate ways (Mourinho back to Chelsea and Guardiola to Bayern) they’ve both only met once—in the European Super Cup. But as fate would have it the two gladiators have now pitched their tents at Manchester to continue their rivalry. It is however a game for the neutrals to enjoy

M

anchester United welcome Manchester City to Old Trafford today in a derby match that sees opposing managers Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola renew their rivalry in the 135-yearold challenge between the

cross-town rivals.

United have made a fantastic start to the season, winning all three of their matches so far and Mourinho has not only galvanised the mood around the club, he has also transformed United on the pitch.

The Red Devils are much more proactive now and are playing with a lot more urgency and will cause a lot of problems for City’s unsettled back four if they can continue their impressive attacking form.

Moreover, Mourinho will have most of his first team players fit for the encounter; the only worry for the Red Devils is their Arme-

nian midfielder, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who is a major doubt for this game.

Meanwhile, Manchester City have been unstoppable this season, but this is their first real test. Guardiola has managed to outsmart Mourinho more often than not in the past and will look to do the same this weekend.

However, Aguero’s suspension is a major blow for the away side and would be forced to start the inexperienced Kelechi Iheancho against the impressive duo of Bailly and Blind.

Furthermore, Otamendi and Stones have shown that they are prone to a moment of madness and coming up against Zlatan, it could be a defining factor.

Star midfielder De Bruyne is still adapting to Pep’s methods and has not performed too well so far, but Raheem Sterling seems to have rediscovered his form and could be a key man for the away side.

The second match of the day will see

Arsenal host Southampton in a crucial game Week 4 encounter at the Emirates Stadium. After a tough start to the season, the Gunners gained momentum in the last game week as they defeated Watford 3-1 to register their first win in the season.

Southampton on the other hand are yet to secure a win as they drew two matches and lost one against Manchester United.

Arsenal are all set to welcome two of their newest members Shkodran Mustafi and Lucas Perez into their starting XI. Both the players were bought on the transfer deadline day to bolster their squad.

Mustafi's arrival will strengthen their backline which was looking extremely weak until last weekend and Arsenal fans will be eager to watch Mustafi-Koscielny combination at the heart of defense.

Arsene Wenger may also hand Lucas Perez his debut against Southampton.

Alexis Sanchez was the stop-gap striker for Arsenal in the last match against Watford, which clearly indicates that the manager has lost faith in French international Olivier Giroud.

Southampton custodian Fraser Forster is currently suffering from a minor hand injury but he is expected come back before the match. Other than that Claude Puel does not have any injury worries and is expected to field his best possible side.

Meanwhile, Liverpool will play their first home game of the season this weekend and will look to start off with a victory. The Reds have had a mixed start to the campaign so far. An outstanding win over Arsenal was followed up by a

shock 2-0 defeat against Burnley, but Jurgen Klopp’s men did well to get a point in their last game against Tottenham.

The German will be hoping his side can improve at the back when Leicester come to town. Despite their poor start to the season, the Premier League Champions have a solid attacking unit and will exploit Liverpool’s defensive frailties.

Apart from Sheyi Ojo, Joe Gomez and Ragnar Klavan, Liverpool will have a fully fit squad to choose from. Loris Karius is back in training and could make his Liverpool debut against the Champions at Anfield.

Mamadou Sakho is expected to be on the bench as well. Emre Can and Philippe Coutinho might struggle for match fitness and Milner should keep his place at left-back.

However, Leicester City have had a poor start to the season so far and will be hoping for a positive result at Anfield this weekend.Claudio Ranieri’s side lost their opening game against Hull City and then drew against Arsenal in their first home game of the season.

The champions impressed during their 2-1 win over Swansea in the last game and will look to carry that momentum into the Liverpool game.

Leicester’s club record signing Islam Slimani is in line to make his debut today. Kasper Schmeichel had a hernia operation during the international break and new signing Ron-Robert Zieler is expected to replace him in the starting lineup.

33

SEPTEMBER 10, 2016 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

GLOBAL SOCCER Premier League

Head to Head 20/03/16

Man City

0-1

Man Utd

25/10/15

Man Utd

0-0

Man City

12/04/15

Man Utd

4 -2

Man City

02/11/14

Man City

1- 0

Man Utd

25/03/14

Man Utd

0 -3

Man City

22/09/13

Man City

4 -1

Man Utd

08/04/13

Man Utd

1 -2

Man City

09/12/12

Man City

2 -3

Man Utd

30/04/12

Man City

1 -0

Man Utd

23/10/11

Man U

1–6

Man City

12/02/11

Man U

2- 1

Man City

10/11/10

Man City

0-0

Man Utd

17/04/10

Man City

0-1

Man Utd

Man City Chelsea Man Utd Everton Hull Middlesbrough Tottenham Arsenal Leicester West Brom Liverpool West Ham Burnley Swansea Southampton Sunderland Crystal Palace Watford Bournemouth Stoke

3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

6 5 5 2 2 1 1 1 0 0a -1 -2 -2 -2 -2 -2 -2 -3 -3 -4

9 9 9 7 6 5 5 4 4 4 4 3 3 3 2 1 1 1 1 1

Premier League TODAY Man Utd Arsenal Bournemouth Burnley Middlesbrough Stoke West Ham Liverpool

v v v v v v v v

Man City Southampton West Brom Hull Crystal Palace Tottenham Watford Leicester

12:30 15:00 15:00 15:00 15:00 15:00 15:00 17:30

SUNDAY Swansea

v

Chelsea

16:00

MONDAY Sunderland

v

Everton

20:00

La Liga TODAY Celta Vigo Madrid Malaga Sevilla Barcelona

v v v v v

Atletico Osasuna Villarreal Las Palmas Alavés

12:00 15:00 17:15 17:15 19:30

SUNDAY Sporting Valencia Granada Deportivo

v v v v

Leganés Real Betis Eibar A Bilbao

11:00 15:00 17:15 19:30

TODAY Juventus Palermo

v v

Sassuolo Napoli

17:00 19:45

SUNDAY Bologna Atalanta Chievo Genoa Milan Roma Pescara

v v v v v v v

Cagliari Torino Lazio Fiorentina Udinese Sampdoria Inter Milan

11:30 14:00 14:00 14:00 14:00 14:00 19:45

Serie A

United Team News Marouane Fellaini picked up a back injury during United's dramatic 1-0 victory over Hull before the international break.

Mourinho seemed pessimistic about his prognosis but he has reportedly recovered and is expected to be in contention for a place today.

Luke Shaw is less likely to take part having been withdrawn from the England squad last week as a precautionary measure.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan also picked up a knock on international duty with Armenia

and the player himself admitted on Twitter that he was not sure whether he would be fit in time for the derby.

City Team News Sergio Aguero will begin serving his three-match ban after the FA upheld his conviction for violent conduct. The Argentinian striker caught Winston Reid in the throat with his elbow during City’s 3-1 win over West Ham. Referee Andre Marriner did not see the incident and the FA handed Aguero the ban as a retrospective punishment - City appealed but it was unsuccessful.

Leroy Sane and Ilkay Gundogan both made it through a 50-minute practice match at the City Football Academy during the international break and are pushing for debuts.

Vincent Kompany also played that game but having been out since May, he is unlikely to be thrown into the pressure cooker of derby day.

Match Officials Referee: Mark Clattenburg Assistants: Jake Collin, Steve Bennett Fourth official: Mike Dean

Mourinho Vs Guardiola

J

ose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola will face off once again today but for the first time in a Manchester derby Key Statistics Mourinho and Guardiola have a much-storied rivalry that dates back to when they first met in 1997.

However, they did not clash as managers until 2009 when Mourinho's Inter Milan drew 0-0 with Guardiola's Barcelona.

They have in total faced each other 16 times, with Pep triumphing seven times and Jose just three.

They contested one of the biggest derbies in the world - El Clasico - and in those the Barca boss was generally victorious too, winning five of the 11 and

losing just two.

Both sides come into the game in the very best of form with 100 per cent records in the Premier League so far this season, but in truth neither has been properly tested.

United have not lost at home since a 1-0 defeat to Southampton on January 23 and were unbeaten at Old Trafford in all but two matches.

What the Managers Say Jose Mourinho “I was in Spain for two years, in a league with Pep where the champion would be me or him. There, the individual fights made more sense because they can affect the outcome of the title

race. In England, if we were to only focus on Guardiola and Manchester City and he were to focus on me and Manchester United, there would be another team to become champions. My experience does not allow me to be naive.”

Pep Guardiola "I still haven't seen Manchester United play, so now I have 10 days to see United, Borussia Monchengladbach and other teams.We have to make an amazing performance to win at Old Trafford. I can imagine the atmosphere. I am looking forward to living that experience. Hopefully, they (City’s players) come back with no injuries and in a good mood and we can do it.

Bundesliga TODAY Leverkusen Ingolstadt Freiburg Darmstadt Wolfsburg Leipzig

v v v v v v

Hamburger 14:30 Hertha 14:30 B M'gladbach 14:30 Frankfurt 14:30 Köln 14:30 Dortmund 17:30

SUNDAY Bremen Mainz

v v

Augsburg 14:30 Hoffenheim 16:30

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

34

GLOBAL SOCCER\\OTHER SPORTS

L-R: Johnson Ivase, GOtv Marketing Manager; Efe Obiomah, Public Relations Manager, GOtv and Jenkins Alumona, Managing Director, Flykite Production during the GOtv Boxing Night 9th Edition Press Conference held at Old Skool Restaurant, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos

GOtv Boxing Night 9:

Nigeria, Ghana Rekindle Age-old Rivalry

The age-old sporting rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana will be relived at GOtv Boxing Night 9 holding at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Lagos, on October 2.

Included in the fight line-up for the event are two international challenge bouts. One is between Olaide Fijabi, national champion, and elite Ghanaian boxer, Raphael Kwabena King.

The other international challenge bout will see national lightweight champion Oto Joseph square up to Ghana’s Richard Amenfu.

The fight line-up was announced by the event organisers, Flykite Promotions, at a press conference in Lagos on Tuesday. Managing Director, Flykite Promotions, Jenkins Alumona, described the two Ghanaian boxers as crack opponents, saying they were carefully chosen to give their Nigerian opponents very tough fights.

“King and Amenfu are highly rated in their

country which, as we know, is one of Africa's boxing powerhouses. They have been picked to provide tough tests for our boxers and fans can expect blockbuster bouts. There is the additional edge of national pride and massive bragging rights,” explained Alumona.

He added that GOtv Boxing Night 9 will, for the first time, feature more than six bouts, which is in celebration of the country's independence and the fifth anniversary of GOtv operations in October. The event will have the national cruiserweight title fight between Idowu Okusote and Ekeng Henshaw.

In another lightweight bout, Sikiru Shogbesan will duel with Prince Nwoye. The light middleweight division will provide a challenge bout between Semiu Olapade and Ebubechukwu Edeh, while Kabiru Towolawi will face Emmanuel Igwe in a light heavyweight challenge contest.

Ghanaian Opponents Warn Fijabi, Joe Boy Ghana’s Raphael Kwabena King, who is billed to fight Nigeria’s Olaide Fijabi has boasted his opponent will taste defeat when they face each other in an international light welterweight challenge bout at GOtv Boxing Night 9 on October 2.

The event, billed for the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium in Lagos, will feature six other fights.

Speaking in Lagos shortly after arrival on Monday, King said he is familiar with the way Fijabi fights, having watched him on television during editions of GOtv Boxing Night, and he is confident of handing him his first defeat.

“I have seen him fight many times and he is way below my standard. I have fought tougher boxers, including world champions. Fijabi has

lost before stepping into the ring. Ghana has won. We are better than Nigeria in sports and I will prove that by beating Fijabi hands down,” bragged King.

His compatriot, Richard Amenfu, who comes up against national lightweight champion, Oto Joseph, in an international challenge bout, also dismissed his Nigerian opponent as inferior to him. Echoing King, Amenfu said the two Ghanaians were in Nigeria to reinforce the country’s supremacy over Nigeria.

“Oto who?” he asked derisively. “Ghana has far better boxers than this guy and anybody in Nigeria. We will wipe the floor with your lot and it does not matter that the bouts are taking place in your country,” ranted Amenfu.

NFF Commends CFA’s ‘Catch them Young’Initiative The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has commended the efforts of Promasidor Nigeria Limited for its sponsorship of the Cowbell Football Academy, CFA. The CFA is an initiative aimed at developing sports in the country by creating an enabling platform for children and youths to express themselves through sports, academics and extra-curricular activities thereby adding to the nation’s human capital development.

The commendation was made at the grand finale of the 2016 Summer Camp which took place at the main bowl of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos recently.

First Vice President of the NFF, Seyi Akinwunmi, explained that the CFA initiative is contributing immensely to the development of football in Nigeria.

According to him, ‘apart from catching the young school children and schooling them on football, the NFF had also realised they are being taught discipline, interpersonal and communication skills which help them excel in any endeavor.’

He added that the NFF has seen significant changes and improvement over the years through

the contributions of the Cowbell football initiative to the nation’s sporting activities.

He therefore commended Promasidor for their diverse CSR initiatives that greatly impact Nigerian children and youths particularly in the areas of sports and academics.

Akinwunmi reiterated the need for the private sector to join hands as a team and develop sports in the nation adding that the government cannot do it alone. He also called on parents to key into the initiative by enrolling their wards in the academy as a way of ensuring their mental and physical well-being.

He gave Promasidor kudos for not just supporting the initiative, but most importantly sustaining the support over the years.

The CFA initiative is an all-year football academy that caters for young football talents in the country, and is particularly opened for young children, students and youths, which seek to provide a 360 development opportunity for them. The Summer Camp is also part of the academy but with specific focus on involving students in boarding houses during the summer holidays from July to August.

Odion Ighalo

DStv Expanding the Viewership of New Football Season Reports point to the fact that pay TV penetration rate has remained alarmingly low in Africa when compared with penetration rates in more mature markets, despite the increasing technological advances. The lack of basic infrastructure, including incessant power outage, among other socio-economic factors, is largely responsible for the low household TV penetration in sub-Saharan Africa. A report published by Dataxis, a global firm specialising in telecom, TV and media information, shows that TV households penetration in Africa, which stood at 114 million in 2015, will reach 159 million in 2021, a figure which is far below penetration rate in some other countries across the world.

Despite the daunting digital divide, people have continued to exploit the available options to keep themselves abreast with knowledge, information and entertainment. For instance, football, which is a unifying factor, has continued to strengthen bonds amongst Nigerians despite the dwindling fortunes of the national team in recent years. The passion of Nigerians for football is firmly expressed in the manner in which football fans troop to bars and “viewing centres” in droves to watch European league matches on high definition broadcast by popular sports channel, SuperSport.

With the 2016/17 Premier League (PL) underway, one can expect that football loving Nigerians will be on the edges of their seats to catch every action of the season as Manchester United’s Jose Mourinho, their city rival, Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola; Chelsea’s unpredictable coach, Antonio Conte; and former Borussia Dortmund gaffer, Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp, including the longest serving coach in the EPL, Arsene Wenger of Arsenal FC are sure to make this season explode with excitement. Little wonder football pundits have described this season’s Premier League as the ‘clash of titans’. The league certainly presents a tough challenge for all the teams and it is definitely something worth watching in the comfort of one’s home.

Moreover, the excitement created by underdogs, Leicester City, winning the league last season is expected to bring a new flair to the PL, further underlying the stiff competition and excitement the league brings.

Recognising Nigerians’ emotional bond with football, MultiChoice Nigeria launched the ‘Live Your Dream’ campaign to celebrate the passion, perseverance and determination of Nigerians to achieve their dreams against all odds. In this campaign, they sought no other than football star, Odion Jude Ighalo who is currently a top striker for English football club, Watford and the Nigerian national team. According to the company, Ighalo’s grass to grace story formed the perfect backdrop for the campaign. They believe that his energetic display and results on the pitch will inspire Nigerians as they work on achieving their dreams as exemplified by Ighalo’s rise from the backwaters of Ajegunle to the plush grounds of vicarage road in Watford FC, England.

Managing Director, MultiChoice Nigeria, John Ugbe, on the Live Your Dream campaign said “Ighalo’s rise to football stardom has been a source of inspiration to many. His passion and performance in the game have made him well respected both home and abroad. As a brand, we went down memory lane with Ighalo and found how he was able to live his dream from the streets of Ajegunle to the tables of the Premier League.”

With this campaign, MultiChoice further reiterates its value proposition on its DStv Compact bouquet. The Compact bouquet has been going through continuous modifications to provide existing customers including potential subscribers to key into the world of premium sport entertainment as well as music, fashion and movies on high definition at an affordable rate of N6,000 only.

In July last year, the leading video entertainment company introduced additional channels, to further enhance the value of the Compact bouquet, some of which include Africa Magic Igbo, Africa Magic Urban, BBC Brit, CBeebies, Eva, M-City and Zee World. A more recent occurrence was the addition of FOX channel, a global entertainment channel that prides itself with bringing ‘The Best, First’, with award-winning, ground-breaking and critically acclaimed programming. “The overarching objective is to expand the reach to a wider audience, creating new fans of its riveting entertainment in the African market”, says Martin Mabutho, General Manager, MultiChoice Nigeria.

Most exciting of all is that with the Compact bouquet, viewers can catch live action of the best of English, Spanish and European football leagues from the comfort of their homes on two recently introduced SuperSport channels; SuperSport 11 and SuperSport 12, dedicated to showcasing the Premier League and La Liga respectively at no extra cost.

The move by the foremost entertainment company to repackage the Compact bouquet also involves a slash in the price of its Explora decoder, which comes with a dish and one month Compact subscription for only N30,000 while the Zapper HD decoder, dish kit plus one month free Compact subscription goes for only N9,999. This is a significant development that seeks to empower many more people to access premium content on high definition. It is believed that with this new offering from MultiChoice, the revamped Compact bouquet will help boost pay TV household penetration rate across many communities in Nigeria in line with the trends worldwide: when costs of access drops, many more people are empowered to enjoy a service or product.

John Ugbe, speaking on the new offering said, "As a customer-focused organisation, we understand that subscribers’ needs are not all the same, and the economic headwinds they are confronted with might differ. As such, it is in appreciation of this diversity that the compact bouquet was introduced to cater for the down market. DStv subscribers can now pay less to enjoy more.” John says further that the value proposition of the Compact bouquet is a consequence of evaluation of the market, including peculiar needs of MultiChoice’s customers and potential subscribers, adding that the value customers will get far outweighs the monthly subscription.

In view of the aforesaid, it is possible to assert that based on the humongous amount of content available to DStv subscribers on Compact bouquet, MultiChoice is urging everyone to live out their dreams by taking advantage of its platform and see their dreams become a manifest reality.

A Lagos based industry pundit, Lateef Balogun sums it up saying the efforts of the pay TV Company was worth applauding. “It is a good move from the company. Times are really hard these days and the fact that MultiChoice recognises this is good. You know how important we Nigerians take football. It is a relief to know that despite the economic challenges, we can still return to our homes to watch our favourite teams with PHCN allowing us”, he said.

35

SEPTEMBER 10, 2016 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

SPECIAL REPORT Ondo APC Primary

Intrigues as Dress Rehearsal for the Bigger Battle of 2019 The Ondo State All Progressives Congress, APC, primary election has come and gone, but not the ripples it generated. With gale of party leaders’ resignations, acrimony and possible legal battles, the APC is a house not only divided against itself, but gladiators are only using the primary election as dress rehearsal for the battle for the soul of the party ahead of 2019. Samuel Ajayi writes

S

hortly after the presidential election of March 28, 2015, former governor of Osun State and one time national chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, had put a call to Senator Robert Ajayi Borrofice, to come and see him. The senator has politely told the old man that he should let him come after the governorship and House of Assembly elections when he would have time to attend to other things including visiting him. Sources told THISDAY that it was not that Borrofice could not create time to see the respected party leader; he was simply skeptical anything good could come out of the meeting and he had his reasons.

Apart from the fact that he knew why he was being sent for, he was not sure he would like to be taken for a ride again.

He knew Akande wanted to discuss the 2016 governorship election in his home state of Ondo with him and the need for him to start “preparing to be presented as candidate of the APC.” Borrofice had been there before. He was also promised support in 2012 but at the end of the day, the ticket was given to Rotimi Akeredolu.

In 2012, they even told him that Senator Bola Tinubu, the party’s national leader wanted him but nothing came out of their ‘support’. Therefore, he did not want to be led by the nose the second time. They also wanted him to contest before but betrayed him.

However, he later found out that a top chieftain of the party in the state, Chief Pius Akinyelure, never wanted him because he felt Borrofice would feel too “big and uncontrollable”. Hence, he went for Dr. Bode Ayorinde, a university don.

But there was another snag: Tinubu did not want Ayorinde. Rather, he wanted a certain Segun Abraham. Sources said Abraham had always been Tinubu’s boy and “business partner” and had always wanted him since 2012 when the ticket eventually went to Akeredolu. Akeredolu was also said to have got Tinubu’s support then after the intervention of a certain senior judge long rumoured to have been sympathetic to APC right from when it was Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN. Meanwhile, the reason Akande wanted Borrofice was because of his very strong grassroots presence; especially in his native Ondo North Senatorial District. Besides, he was never seen to have been Tinubu’s ‘boy’ and so the thinking was that he would come across as an independentminded candidate that would not be seen to be holding allegiance to any interest.

Still, Tinubu did not seem ready to have anything to do with that permutation.

Akeredolu knew long ago that he would not get Tinubu’s support the way he did in 2012. And that gave those who did not like Tinubu’s face within APC the opportunity to move in. Not only did they throw the weight behind ‘Aketi’, as he is popularly called, they provided him with all the logistics needed to flow both Abraham and Olusola Oke. Leading this line of pro-Akeredolu tendency were Babatunde Fashola, former Lagos State governor and now Minister of Power, Housing and Works, as well as former Ekiti

Tinubu

Akeredolu

State governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi. Both of them, it was an open secret, Tinubu never wanted to be made ministers. Supporting them was Education Minister, Adamu Adamu, who was said to have helped Akeredolu mobilised funds from Abuja. As they were working in Abuja, they also got other contestants who did not really stand any chance of winning to ‘donate’ their delegates to Akeredolu. These included the likes of Dr. Tunji Abayomi, Tayo Alasoadura and Jumoke Anifowose, daughter of first executive governor of the state, late Chief Adekunle Ajasin.

There was also the angle of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the Osun State governor, whose Special Adviser, Bolaji Ilori, was said to have worked for Oke with the hope that the latter would make him the deputy governor. Whereas, the “instruction” was that Aregbesola should work for Abraham.

Aregbesola has since denied the allegation that he worked against Tinubu’s interest.

In fact, he has visited the former Lagos governor in his home in Lagos.

Shortly after the exercise, Abraham congratulated Akeredolu. His words: “I congratulate Akeredolu who emerged with 669 votes at the primary election of our great party (the) APC, in Ondo State.

My special regards and admiration for the Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Badaru Abubakar, and his team for their sterling quality and integrity in conducting the APC governorship primary in Ondo State.”

Speaking further, Abraham said he would continue to “contribute (his) quota to the development of our state in any way God directs.”

But the show of sportsmanship was not to last. On Wednesday, Abraham practically ‘withdrew’ his congratulatory message and rejected the outcome of the primary election “following gale of allegations and malpractices that rocked the exercise.”

Now the next stage is to practically cripple the party in the state with resigna-

tion of key party leaders in the state. These include the three senatorial chairmen of the party. In fact, as early as Monday this week, the party chairman for Ondo Central Senatorial District Chairman, Adegboyega Adedipe, resigned his position in protest against the handling of the party’s governorship primary election. And the other senatorial chairmen were said to be ready to follow suit. And rumours had it that the state party chairman, Isaac Kekemeke, might follow suit any moment from now. In fact, a national newspaper (not THISDAY) reported during the week that the party chairman has removed his personal belongings from his office.

Publicity Secretary of the party, Abayomi Adesanya, confirmed the resignation of Adedipe, adding that the party official had returned all the party’s property in his care to the secretariat in Akure, the state capital.

Meanwhile, Olusola Oke, another loser to Akeredolu, is said to be planning to try his luck in another party. Sources said the plan was to ensure that the party is practically brought to its knees in the state to make campaigning difficult for Akeredolu.

Yet, in all this, the only person who did not see the handwriting on the wall was Tinubu himself. Those involved in the scheme had one target: ensure that he was embarrassed in the APC governorship primary. Others allegedly involved in the anti-Abraham ‘project’ included the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, David Babachir, as well as Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai.

Not that alone, even Tinubu’s camp was not united in the primaries. The leader, Tinubu, wanted Abraham, Akande preferred Borrofice while Aregbesola indirectly worked for Oke. Though he denied this.

In all these, the target is 2019 for which permutations have started in earnest, some of them across party lines. The aim, as far as the Ondo APC primary was concerned, was to take as much ‘territory’ as possible

Yet, in all this, the only person who did not see the handwriting on the wall was Tinubu himself. Those involved in the scheme had one target: ensure that he was embarrassed in the APC governorship primary. Others allegedly involved in the anti-Abraham ‘project’ included the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, David Babachir, as well as Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai.

Not that alone, even Tinubu’s camp was no unity in the primaries.

The leader, Tinubu, wanted Abraham, Akande preferred Borrofice while Aregbesola indirectly worked for Oke from Tinubu ahead of 2019. El-Rufai is said to be toying with the idea of running for the presidency in 2019 with Amaechi being touted as his running-mate. Fayemi is said to be nursing the idea of running for governor again in Ekiti in 2018.

The implication of all these for the larger APC family is what many may have been wondering aloud about. Analysts feel the party is being systematically polarised ahead of 2019. A leader of the party confirmed this to THISDAY. He said the party has been ‘wounded’ long ago.

“Which party? Please. The party has fallen apart long ago. That is why the president ‘elbowed’ Tinubu long ago and the Presidency gave its tacit endorsement to all Fashola and co did in Ondo State.

They could not have done that without ‘official instruction.”

236

JUNE 16, 2011 • NEWSPAPER THISDAY, THE •SATURDAY NEWSPAPER THISDAY, THE SATURDAY September 10, 2016

FAIRGROUND

Jidenna Rocks in Nigeria

I

t is no longer news that Nigerian-born American hip hop star, Jidenna stormed Nigeria recently with his music crew. The star, who is popularly known as the ‘classic man’ while some prefer to call him the ‘swank king’, obviously had a fabulous time and was given so much love in return by his fans in the country. Fairground was invited by Trace TV for an exclusive and intimate dinner held at Nok by Alara Restaurant to host Jidenna.

It was his “Welcome home” dinner, and it was hosted by One Africa in conjunction with Upfront & Personal. The dinner was held for about 50 guests, who wined and dined with the international star.

The next event lined up for Jidenna wowed the audience, where he debuted his album “Long Live The Chief” at Hard Rock Café, Lagos. The ‘Classic Man’ singer, who performed hit singles and tracks from his unreleased album ‘Chief Don’t Run’ tore the house down with the brilliance of his stagecraft.

The billing was for “Sony Music/Wonderland Record and Trace.

He presented “A live showcase performance from the debut album of the classic man, Jidenna.”

Trace Naija has replaced Trace Urban on channel 325 on Dstv.

Trace Naija is a premium music channel, dedicated to Afro beat music and culture, as well as its influences.

Throughout the month of August, Trace had conversations around Afrobeats and how the genre has evolved, who is a better epitome of the genre than Nigeria’s own king of Swank, Jidenna.

Trace Naija will continue to explore all the other sub genres of Afrobeats such as Afropop, Afrosoul, Indigenous rap, Lamba and much more.

He visited Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Agbani where his Dad was a professor and started a scholarship scheme for the best student in Computer Engineering Department.

Jidenna was later led to his secondary school, where he was received by students of the school and their parents after which he visited his father ’s house in Enugu. The classic man next port of visit is South Africa.

Lynxxx

with

AZUKA OGUJIUBA

azuka.ogujiuba@thisdaylive.com

Jidenna and Burna Boy performing

Sam CEO of TraceTV

Kelvin Orifa and Jidenna

Chinedu Ikedieze

Dj Spinall

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • September 10, 2016

37

FAIRGROUND

All Fun, Play at Launch of new Ruff ‘N’ Tumble Store in Opebi

O

pebi was lit up, as Nigeria’s leading children fashion brand, Ruff ‘N’ Tumble, played host to kids and parents, who turned out in droves, at the launch of its new store. The children were treated to an array of fun activities such as face painting, backdrop selfies and refreshments while parents were spoilt with finger foods and cocktails.

Speaking at the launch, Mrs. Adenike Ogunlesi, Founder and Chief Responsibility Officer of Ruff ‘N’ Tumble said, “Our Opebi store opening despite the heavy downpour was a resounding success. Our Customers are extremely special people and we remain thankful that we

are their number one choice in the market place. We will continue, despite the prevailing economic conditions, to deliver on our promise of style and quality. We shall find value and pass them on where ever possible.

“To the great RNT teams, the months and years of consistent commitment will pay off. It’s a journey and we intend to have fun and deliver on our goals. Congratulations and very well done.”

The parents were not left out in the celebrations as Sound Sultan and his wife, Chichi, Titi Oyinsan, Tara Durotoye and others enjoyed shopping and bonding with the children.

The new store is bringing the total number of Ruff ‘N’Tumble stores nationwide to 15.

Mrs. Adenike Ogunlesi and the kids

Maktoub Magazine Introduces Exciting Online Television Show, Reveal-In

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ne of Africa’s indigenous business and lifestyle magazine, Maktoub is set to launch its latest online television show- Reveal-In, a new feature that will entertain, inform and educate her audience on Africa’s leading celebrities and top personalities.

REVEAL-IN will be featuring young successful entrepreneurs between the ages of 25-40, in a laid back style and environment. This amazing online television show is a non-formal inter-

active session that will captivate the public especially the younger generation.

The online television show is targeted at delving into the personal and psychological elements of the lives of these young entrepreneurs including but not limited to intellect, temperament, staying power, weaknesses and other interesting features.

As a platform that will entertain our readers, REVEAL-IN is optimised for mobile devices (iOS and Android), and will be a place to share moments people want to remember.

Omoyemi Akerele

93 Days Screened at H. Humphrey Building Washington DC

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he U.S Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) were honoured with an exclusive screening of the movie, 93 Days, in its Hubert H. Humphrey Building, Washington DC. In attendance were Hollywood actors, Danny Glover (Played Dr Ohiaeri) and Tim Reid (Played Dr Sam Adeniyi Jones), Kemi DaSilva-Ibru, Associate Producer 93 Days, producers/executive producers of 93 Days, Bolanle Austen-Peters, Dotun Olakunri, Steve Gukas and other dignitaries such as Jimmy Kolker, Assistant Secretary for Global Affairs HHS, Dr Benjamin Ohiaeri, Owner, First Consultant’s Hospital, Dr Sam Adeniyi Jones, Director Office of Global Affairs HHS, Dr David Brett-Majors, US Department of Defense and Former WHO expert, Kent Brantly, American Ebola survivor, Dr Morris Ibeawuchi, Nigerian Ebola survivor, Bockari Stevens, the sierra Leonean Ambassador to the US, Denas Morris, Center for Disease Control, Elizabeth Sadove, US Food and Drug Administration, Linda Thomas-Greenfield and Amanda Jacobsen, US Department of State.

Joined by other officials from the White House, the screening received an impressive turnout as guests enjoyed and commended the phenomenal masterpiece that has been created by talented actors,

Kemi DaSilva-Ibru, Dotun Olakunri, Danny Glover, Bolanle Austen-Peters and Steve Gukas

producers and director in Nigeria.

During the Q&A session, the producers of 93 Days discussed the motivation behind the movie and how Nigeria is delighted to tell its story to the world through.

Directed by Steve Gukas, the powerful movie is a compelling story of courage, determination and sacrifice as displayed by the team at the First Consultant Hospital, the Nigerian Government and well-

meaning organisations in combating the Ebola virus that broke in 2014.

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), widely recognised for showing the most outstanding films from around the world, has selected 93 Days for screening at the Isabel Bader Theatre in Toronto, Canada, this week.

Showing in cinemas nationwide from the 16th of this month, 93 Days is definitely a

must-see and a movie that signifies a major landmark in the history of Nigeria.

Here is what experts in the public health division of the US government are saying about 93 days: “Thank you for putting together such as beautiful movie that really told the story and elicited all the feelings of the Lagos experience. I hope the film makes it to many theatres and audiences,” Richard Balliram, HHS- ASPR Division of International Health Security.

“This was a high calibre film that was better than the movie ‘contagious’. I was impressed with the scientific accuracy and substantive report. I would certainly see it again,” Tiffany Locus, MPH (Alumnus of Tutane’s School of Public Health).

“The movie is a beautiful representation of humanity in time of tragedy. It was both entertaining, touching and educational. A true gem,” Alison Schaeffer “This movie is the best I’ve seen in a long time! Great actors, great way of telling a story and great way to tell the world about the Nigerian team effort that saved the country.

Thanks for spreading the message of “We need to be prepared for infectious diseases,” HHS, Director of International Health Security.

“Fantastic! Wonderful to see the story behind the heroes in Nigeria. Finally a real movie about public health,” Julie Barsic.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • September 10, 2016

September 10, 2016 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • September 10, 2016

FITNESS FILE

Exercise And Your Brain

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hen I was about to turn 40, I started working out more regularly after years of inactivity. As I sweated my way through cardio, weights, and basketball, I noticed that exercise wasn’t just changing my body. It was also profoundly transforming my brain – for the better.

The immediate effects of exercise on my mood and thought process proved to be a powerful motivational tool. And as a workout devotee, I’ve come to believe that these neurological benefits could have profound implications for how we live, learn and age as a society.

Let’s start with one of the most practical immediate benefits of breaking a sweat: exercise combats stress. Exercise is a powerful way to combat feelings of stress because it causes immediate increases in levels of key neurotransmitters, including serotonin, noradrenalin, dopamine and endorphins, that are often depleted by anxiety and depression.

That’s why going for a run or spending 30 minutes on the elliptical can boost our moods immediately – combatting the negative feelings we often associate with chronic stressors we deal with every day.

It has also been demonstrated that exercise improves our ability to shift and focus attention. Even casual exercisers will recognize this effect. It’s that heightened sense of focus that you feel right after you’ve gotten your blood flowing, whether it be a brisk walk or a full-on Crossfit workout. These findings suggest that if you have a big presentation or meeting where you need your focus and attention to be at its peak, you should get in a workout ahead of time to maximize those brain functions.

But my favorite neurosciencebased motivation for exercise relates to its effects on the hippocampus, a key brain structure that’s critical for long-term memory. We all have two hippocampi: one on the right side of the brain and the other on the left.

The Edenlifestyle corner with

MAJE AYIDA

majeayida@edenlifenigeria.com www.edenlifenigeria.com, 07062614551

The hippocampus is unique because it is one of only two brain areas where new brain cells continue to be generated throughout our lives, a process called adult hippocampal neurogenesis.

Studies in rodents demonstrated that increased levels of physical exercise can result in improved memory by enhancing both the birth rate and the survival of new hippocampal brain cells. Exercise encourages the long-term growth of hippocampal cells by immediately increasing levels of a key growth factor in the hippocampus called Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). Now, when I exercise, I imagine BDNF levels surging in my hippocampi, encouraging all those new hippocampal cells to grow.

All this should serve as a powerful motivator for regular physical activity. But the immediate and long-term benefits of exercise on the brain have even bigger implications.

Just consider how the educational system might be altered if we acknowledge exercise’s ability to brighten our mood, decrease stress, and improve our attention span and memory. The growing evidence that exercise improves these key brain functions should encourage schools around the world to increase, not decrease, students’ physical activity, particularly here in Nigeria. Not only would this help students to better absorb everything from history lessons to chemistry experiments, they’d be a lot happier too.

The positive brain-based effects of exercise for education are just as relevant for very young children. The growing popular-popular ity of out outdoor

preschools are a promising sign that this message is starting to get through.

These brain effects of exercise also have implications for our search for that magic “smart” pill we hope will make us more productive, successful, and, if you believe the Bradley Cooper film “Limitless”, a lot sexier as well. What if the real magic does not come in the form of a pill, but in the form of an exercise regime?

That’s exactly what the neuroscience research suggests. In fact, some labs is focusing on identifying how people can use exercise to optimize brain function for people of all ages, fitness levels and abilities. If regular exercise becomes routine for the vast majority of children and adults, we could have a population that’s not only healthier and less stressed, but also more productive.

The good news doesn’t end there.

Recent findings have suggested that the brain’s hippocampus is also involved in giving people the ability to imagine new situations. Since we know that exercise enhances the birth of new hippocampal brain cells and can improve memory function, this discovery suggests that exercise might be able to improve the imaginative functions of the hippocampus as well.

This idea has not yet been tested in people. But the hypothesis raises the exciting possibility that exercise could make students more imaginative at school and adults more creative at work, with broad benefits for society as a whole. It is also worth noting one of the most profound long-term benefits of exercise on the brain. That is, the longer and more regularly you exercise through your life, the lower your chances are of suffering from cognitive decline

Studies in rodents demonstrated that increased levels of physical exercise can result in improved memory by enhancing both the birth rate and the survival of new hippocampal brain cells. Exercise encourages the long-term growth of hippocampal cells by immediately increasing levels of a key growth factor in the hippocampus called Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF).

Now, when I exercise, I imagine BDNF levels surging in my hippocampi, encouraging all those new hippocampal cells to grow. All this should serve as a powerful motivator for regular physical activity.

But the immediate and long-term benefits of exercise on the brain have even bigger implications and dementia as you age. Part of this effect can be attributed to the build-up in the numbers of healthy young hippocampal cells as you exercise over the years.

Granted, this is a very long-term benefit that may not be seen decades to come. But if for more people were to join the gym this month and actually stick to it, more of us will be able to avoid debilitating cognitive decline.

This problem is even more relevant for countries with particularly large agag ing populations, including the US, Japan and Germany.

In these ways, neuroscience gives us a framework to understand educaexercise as a tool for better educa tion, increased productivity in the workforce and combating cognitive decline. It’s time for us to stop using the looming prospect of summer as the motivation for exercise, and instead shift the conversation to a discussion about how staying active can change the way we live.

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SEPTEMBER 10, 2016 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

FASHION FILE

Noble Igwe Proves He’s the Perfect Muse for Yomi Casual’s ‘5 Shades of Noble’

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

FASHION FILE

By Azuka Ogujiuba azuka.ogujiuba@thisdaylive.com

Yomi Casual’s ‘5 Shades of Noble’

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very contemporary fashion collection has a well-shaped background story, and the birth of this ready-to-wear outfits tagged ‘5 Shades of Noble’ by Yomi Casual is no difference.

The prêt-à-porter pieces with uncommon designs for men were created with a little ‘fashion-forward’ approach making the outfits more interesting with texture and depth. The styles are different from the unvarying designs we usually see.

For these pieces, the creative director of Yomi Casual brand, Yomi Makun, chose Noble Igwe as his muse, and from what we see, he fits the bill perfectly. Noble is well known for his inimitable smartness.

His outfits are always

on point and his personal style is so versatile that he can rock just anything. The star modelled the YC outfits like no one can.

From astonishing tunics to cropped pants (which has become a menswear sensation in recent times) and fedora hats to match, Noble Igwe drops some very fierce looks in the photos.

If you are a very stylish man with high taste in fashion and also looking for something to splurge on that is not going to break the bank, then this collection is simply for you.

Model: Noble Igwe Photographer: Ayo Alasi MUA: D’artiste by Dodos Designer/Stylist: Yomi Casual Location: Yomi Casual Studios, 16, Caroline Atuonah, Off Durosinmi Etti Drive, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER •SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

WITH

MARKET PLACE

OMOLABAKE FASHOGBON 08033621009

L-R: Chairman,Nigerian Mortgage Refinancing Company (NMRC), Prof. Charles Inyangette and Managing Director/ CEO, Suntrust Bank, Mr. Muhammad Jibrin, during the unveiling of the Suntrust bank in Lagos recently

L-R; Managing Director, Coleman and Cables, Mr. George Onafowokan; Director General, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr. Muda Yusuf; Vice President, LCCI, Mrs. Agnes Shobaja; and Representative of Chairman of Business Education and Training of LCCI, Rear Admiral Adeyemi Afolahan (rtd), during the 2016 LCCI entrepreneurship mentoring programme in Lagos recently

Dell, EMC Merge, Form New Entity and EMC’s RSA unit.

“This is a historic moment for both Dell and EMC. We will be exceptionally well-positioned for growth in the most strategic areas of next generation Information Technology (IT) including digital transformation, software-defined data centre, converged infrastructure, hybrid cloud, mobile and security. Our investments and innovation, along with our 140,000 team members around the world, will give us

The much awaited deal between two global technology giants, Dell Inc. and EMC Corporation has finally hit the ground running as both firms have ended transactions to now operate under one business umbrella,Dell Technologies.

This development followed regulatory approval of the Dell and EMC transaction by China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), to operate under one body as well as the unanimous backing of

shareholders.

Henceforth, Dell Technologies will display products ranging from edge devices to core data centers and cloud infrastructure.

According to Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Dell Technologies, Michael Dell, the new business will capture all Dell’s activities including EMC’s core Information Infrastructure storage division, Pivotal, Virtustream and two security businesses: Dell’s SecureWorks

Dufil Patners NGO to Empower Children

Sosaco Expands, Announces New Product

Dufil Prima Foods, makers of Indomie Noodles has demonstrated its passion for quality education having renewed its partnership with Lagos Empowerment and Resource Network (LEARN),a Non-governmental organisation that specialises in building and engaging youth in the areas of education, vocational skills, recreational activities among others.

The firm which is part of the NGO’s success story since its nine years of existence has been supportive and consistent in the areas of cash donation, educational materials as well as free indomie lunch during summer session.

As it reached out to the initiative this year, Dufil Foods restated its commitment to sustaining and encouraging the goal of the NGO which aligns with one of its objectives of promoting education.

Group Public Relations and Events Manager of the company , Mr. Tope Ashiwaju, pointed out that it was necessary to invest meaningfully in tomorrow’s leader in order to have a secured future .

He said:” Although, the financial capacity of the country has dropped,this is the time that corporate bodies need to position themselves as market leaders. Despite tough economic appearance, we are repositioning ourselves as market leader by spending more to engage children and youth on quality education. Last year, apart from educational materials, we gave out N350,000 to support the initiative, today, even in the face of economic hardship, we are donating N500,000 in addition to educational materials and free lunch throughout the summer period.

“No matter how tough a situation is, people still source for food and in as much provision can be made for food, it is important that we also make provision for our kids to remain focused in their studies and remain in school because that is the only way we can have a sound tomorrow”.

Project Manager of LEARN, Mrs. Bisi Awoyomi , commended Dufil’s steadfast effort towards the NGO which she said was strategic. According to her, the firm’s partnership in the last nine years had proven relevant by building the capacity of young talent and making them to be more confident, thus bringing to reality, the vision of the NGO founder, Mrs. Emmanuella Abimbola Fashola, the former first lady of Lagos State.

Multinational fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company, Sosaco Nigeria Limited, has stepped up its investment in Nigeria with its latest, Jago Gold recently introduced to the premium segment of the milk powder market.

The company revealed that its latest move was motivated by consumers demand as well as the need to make its products accessible to all classes of consumers.

To the Chairman of the firm, Mr. Francis Ogboro, the latest development had brought the company to a threshold where it could cater for all segments of the packaged milk powder industry that afforded consumers opportunity to experience full cream instant whole milk powder like never before.

Highlighting the composition of the new product, Managing Director of the company, Mr. Shailesh Kumar said Jago Gold contained essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals that aided strong

and healthy growth.

“All our products are focused on all round nourishment and exceptional taste which is why they are fully fortified with Vitamin A, Vitamin D3, essential vitamins and minerals to boost healthy growth.

This is just another milestone towards our commitment to deliver a wide range of quality products to the consumers”, Kumar pointed out.

He added that the company would be coming up with more quality products aimed at giving consumers a healthy start for the day, thus helping them to bring out their best just like the brand tagline – ‘For the Winner in You’ The Indian firm which is on a repositioning mission to hit the largest market share in the branded food market also unveiled a new brand identity for its flagship brand, Jago D’lite and as well premiered the thematic campaign for the new Jago Milk TVC tagged ‘Get Set Jago’

Samsung May Lose Billions on Faulty Galaxy Note7 It is not the best of time for South Korean multinational phonemaker , Samsung, who presently is battling image and financial challenges as a result of the fault detected on its latest, Galaxy Note 7, which forced its to recall the device globally.

The company which had already shipped around 2.5 million of the affected product acknowledged a faulty battery in the just released Note7 which causes it to explode hence, announced that it would be halting sale of the handset and would open a recall and replacement program for its customers and retail partners.

However, for the sixth-generation Galaxy Note phablet which was launched very recently ,Samsung may be forfeiting a whooping sum of

$1 billion from the already shipped 2.5 million devices, according to Boy Genius Report,BGR,a technology review website.

Although the company didn’t disclose the estimated loss, its head of mobile business, Koh Dong Jin disclosed that the amount was heartbreaking according to ‘Try newsweek ‘as quoted from Bloomberg.

This scenario is coming as a shock and disappointment to phone freaks, especially Samsung lovers who had dreamt and fantasied about the device even before it entered the market.

A similar scenario of device recall happened in 2007 when world’s top mobile handset maker,Nokia offered to replace 46 million phone batteries,the largest in history so far.

unmatched scale, strength and flexibility, deepening our relationships with customers of all sizes”, Dell said.

Chairman and Chief Executive officer of EMC,Joe Tucci, who expressed happiness and fulfillment in the transaction noted that the coming together of the duo sought to create a new powerhouse in the information communication technology(ICT) sector, thus, providing the essential technology for the next era in IT.

Yudala Confirms Date, Performers at Zero Gravity The widely publicised mega concert tagged ‘Zero Gravity’ is set to kick off on October 2, 2016.

According to Yudala, the concert will begin with a contemporary music blast at the Landmark Event Centre in Oniru, Lagos with the likes of Olamide, Iyanya,Flavour and Phyno being confirmed as headline acts for the mega digital entertainment show.

The composite retail outfit also confirmed the appearance of ace comedians, Ali Baba and Akpororo who would be on ground to liven up the highly expectant attendees.

As side attractions, the firm revealed that, “We shall be featuring the best artistes in contemporary Nigerian hip-hop and Rock Gospel, who will also use the platform to launch new hit tracks.

It is a platform to see and hear it first in addition to other surprises on ground”.

The inaugural edition of the concert will hold in three cities - Lagos, Abuja and Enugu, with each city hosting two concerts.

For the show that has attracted a host of topnotch companies including Hewlett-Packard, Stanbic IBTC bank and Lenovo, free tickets would be delivered to customers for purchases made from the firm’s online platform or in any of its experience stores nationwide. Customers will also be upgraded to VIP or VVIP on the basis of further purchases which may take them to the threshold for these categories.

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

VINTAGE

Aisha Buhari: The Rallying Cry for IDPs

L-R: Zamfara State Governor, Abdul’aziz Abubakar Yari, Mr. Tony Elumelu and the wife of the President, Hajia Aisha Buhari

Benneth Oghifo

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ife of the President, Haijia Aisha Muhammadu Buhari is playing a pivotal role in saving the lives of 2.5 million malnourished Nigerian children in the North-East. The urgency of the situation is captured in the fact that if these children do not get access to the right nutrition quickly, there is a chance that an estimated 500,000 of them will die of malnutrition by the end of this year. Concerned by the tragic situation facing the nation, Hajia Aisha Buhari recently launched an initiative to save malnourished children faced with certain death. Tagged “Get Involved” the initiative is part of the President’s Wife’s Future Assured program and is designed to provide solutions to problems of malnutrition among children in the country.

The initiative has been designed as a platform of active participation of well-meaning Nigerians, private sector and non-governmental organisations to respond to the alarming outbreak of undernourishment at Internally Displaced Camps (IDPs).

Aisha believes that with the collective effort from the Nigerian Public, no child in Nigeria should lack a good nutritional diet.

“Get involved is a component of Future Assured, my pet project. We decided to launch it to make Nigerians know the magnitude of malnutrition and also to call on well-meaning Nigerians to come to the aid of those who are suffering from it,” Aisha Buhari said.

Though malnutrition is not new in Nigeria, it has become wide spread and intense due to the activities of Boko Haram in the North East which has resulted in the displacement of millions of people who are no longer able to make a living through their traditional occupation of farming. About five million people have been displaced by the insurgency in the North East with about two million of them taking refuge in IDP Camps.

Explaining the difficult situation on ground, Hajia Aisha Buhari noted; “You know all the women and children that were rescued have all been malnourished, due to the fact that they were cut off from the supply of foods and amenities by the insurgency. So they were unable to feed probably and by the time they were rescued, you could easily see that they have been suffering from severe malnutrition, especially the young children among them.”

The “Get Involved” initiative is unique in that it brings together donors and manufacturers of goods together. It is a platform to mobilise donations from concerned individuals and organisations towards ameliorating child malnutrition

The President’s wife explained that the decision to launch the ‘Get Involved’ Initiative is to help those suffering from the moderate level of malnutrition as well as prevent those yet to cross the malnutrition line from becoming victims.

“So we love to use this opportunity to encourage people to join us. We have a nutritional plan but with the recent development and the level of malnutrition, that is why we decided to get involved to help the malnourished mothers and children

in the northeast and across the country.

International aid agencies have said that up 1,200 children will die every day if nothing is done to stop the acute malnutrition affecting the region.

“The government cannot be left to solve this challenge alone. It is a collective responsibility which we must all resolve.

This platform is being used to create a platform on malnutrition as well as stimulating the patronage of locally produced goods. I appeal to all stakeholders to show a commitment to ending malnutrition.”

The donors will pay for the goods and the manufacturing companies will supply directly to the IDP camps. This creates a win-win situation on several fronts.

First, it ensures that the donated items actually get delivered to the IDP camps and also creates a platform for patronage of made in Nigeria goods while providing a credible platform for the individuals and corporate bodies to engage in philanthropy and also show a sense of corporate social responsibility.

The President’s wife explained that the decision to launch the ‘Get Involved’ Initiative is to help those suffering from the moderate level of malnutrition as well as prevent those yet to cross the malnutrition line from becoming victims.

“So we love to use this opportunity to encourage people to join us. We have a nutritional plan but with the recent development and the level of malnutrition, that is why we decided to get involved to help the malnourished mothers and children” The response has been impressive so. far. Among those that have responded the President’s wife’s initiative are governors and their spouses, ministers, senior government advisers, representatives of charity organisations, celebrities, including Joke Silver and Banky W. Ace musician Banky W described the Get Involved Initiative as “fantastic” urging all Nigerians to line behind the initiative. The Governor of Zamfara State, Abdul Aziz Yari Abubakar, who is also Chairman of the Governor’s Forum, disclosed at the launch that all Governors have decided to support the programme to ensure that malnutrition among children is stopped.

“All Governors are support this initiative of the wife of the President. We cannot afford to have so many children lose their lives due to malnutrition. I congratulate the wife of the President for this initiative” Governor Abubakar said.

Also the Governor of Bauchi State, Mohammed Abdullahi Abubakar, who also attended the launch, commended the wife of the President for initiating such a worthy programme.

“It is great that the Get Involved initiative is aimed at addressing malnutrition.

All of us, irrespective of party affiliations will join this effort to ensure that we wipe away malnutrition from the country” the Bauchi governor said.

Serial entrepreneur and philanthropist, the Chairman of UBA Plc, Mr. Tony Elumelu is also one of those that have also decided to Get Involved in the initiative.

Elumelu was recently at the International Conference Centre venue of the programme in Abuja to lend his support.

“This is a great initiative. It complements the President efforts for peace in the North East. While the president is bringing peace, his wife is bringing food. This is great” he said.

He also commended the transparency of the initiative due to the fact it does not involve giving money to anyone. “The wife of the President is not asking you for money. She is just saying come and buy these Made in Nigeria goods and distribute to the IDP Camps. I think that is really great. I am going to talk to other private sector players to be part of this initiative.

We need to work with her to fulfill the objectives of this initiative” Elumelu said.

Doing a tour of various products on display during the launch of the ‘Get Involved Initiative’, Elumelu said he was impressed with the home-grown supplies on display. “We can do much if we empower local entrepreneurs. I urge others to support this transparent effort by the wife of the president” he noted.

Hajia Aisha Buhari while expressing her appreciation at the visit of Elumelu and his support said “with collective efforts from the Nigerian Public no child in Nigeria should lack a good nutritional diet”.

T H I S D AY SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

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THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

PERSPECTIVE

The Face-Off in China Femi Fani-kayode

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he other day I posted a copy of the now famous picture of President Barack Obama and his Russian counterpart President Vladimer Putin where they both coldly looked into one another’s eyes without the trace of a smile.

They looked like two hardened prize fighters in their prime that were summoned into the middle of the boxing ring by the referee for the usual short pep talk just before he shouts “seconds out” and sends everyone, apart from the two boxers themselves, out of the ring.

The encounter took place in Hangzhou, China during the G20 meeting. As they say a picture is worth more than one thousand words but this particular one is worth more than ten thousand because it told the whole story.

Such was its visual power and vivid expression that CNN, Al Jazeera, Fox News, the BBC and numerous other international television networks kept airing it and it was strewn all over the internet and social media.

After posting it on my Facebook wall I wrote a short caption just above the picture which reads as follows: “It looks as if Barack Obama has finally met someone that is stronger and better and that is prepared to face him down. This is what you call an “eyeball to eyeball” encounter or a good old fashioned “squaring off”. Thank God for Vladimer Putin”.

These words and the picture itself sparked off a spirited and interesting debate on my Facebook wall which involved people that were residing in many countries all over the world including the United Kingdom, Finland, the United States, India, Dubai and China.

The topic of discussion was President Barack Obama. I was particularly impressed with the contribution of two distinguished individuals and I will share their contributions in this essay together with my response to one of them.

The first was my old school friend and brother Mr. Joe Thorn. Mr. Thorn is an Englishman who has lived in Baton Rouge, Louisiana in the United States of America for many years.

He served us with an extraordinary and factual analysis of Obama’s performance, or rather lack of it, over the last years when it came to the fortunes and economic welfare of the African American population in America.

Relying very much on the excellent research that was done by the respected Mr. Larry Elder and armed with facts and figures which few could dismiss, Mr. Thorn successfully put the case against Obama in an effective and clinical manner. Hear him: “What about poverty? In 2009, when Obama took office, the black poverty rate was 25.8 percent. As of 2014, according to Pew Research Center, the black poverty rate was 27.2 percent.

What about income? CNNMoney says, “Minority households’ median income fell 9 percent between 2010 and 2013, compared to a drop of only 1 percent for whites.”

The Financial Times wrote last October: “Since 2009, median non-white household income has dropped by almost a 10th to $33,000 a year, according to the U.S. Federal Reserve’s survey of consumer finances.

As a whole, median incomes fell by 5 percent. But by the more telling measure of net wealth — assets minus liabilities — the numbers offer a more troubling story.”

What about net worth and the black-white “wealth gap”? The Financial Times said: “The median non-white family today has a net worth of just $18,100 — almost a fifth lower than it was when Mr. Obama took office.

White median wealth, on the other hand, has inched up by 1 percent to $142,000. In 2009, white households were seven times richer than their black counterparts.

That gap is now eightfold. Both in relative and absolute terms, blacks are doing worse under Mr. Obama.” Remember, these numbers apply to all “non-whites.” For blacks, it’s worse.

When looking only at “black net worth” — which is lower compared to non-whites as

President Barack Obama a whole — white households are actually 13 times wealthier than black households.

From 2010 to 2013, according to the Federal Reserve, white household median wealth increased a modest 2.4 percent, while Hispanic families’ wealth declined 14 percent, to $13,700.

But blacks’ net worth fell from $16,600 to $11,000. This is an astonishing three-year drop of 34 percent.

Investors Business Daily put it this way, “That’s a steeper decline than occurred from 2007 to 2010, when blacks’ net worth fell 13.5 percent.” The black/white “wealth-gap” has reached a 25-year high.

What about unemployment? In 2009, black unemployment was 12.7 percent, and by 2014, it had fallen to 10.1 percent.

This sounds like good news until one examines the black labor force participation rate — the percentage of blacks working or seeking work. It’s the lowest since these numbers have been recorded”.

Mr. Thorn’s contribution was very effective and he opened the eyes of those that erroneously assumed that Barack Obama had

been a blessing to members of his own black American community over the last seven years. How wrong they were.

Having attended one of the best private schools in England before going to one of the best universities, Mr. Thorn certainly knows how to do his research, marshal his points and fight his corner.

Yet perhaps the most damning analysis of all.came from my brother Mr. Victor Oladokun, who is another old friend and a leading light in the Christian community both in the United States of America and Nigeria.

If Mr. Thorns’ analysis was clinical, Mr. Oladokun’s can best be described as precise, ruthless and devastating. Permit me to share it here. He wrote as follows: “We warned all of those who voted for Obama on sentimental grounds simply because he was Black. The bottom line is that he has been an unmitigated disaster on multiple levels • Support of radical Islamist militants to remove Gadaffi and Assad. Libya and Syria have descended into an absolute mess.

Thanks to Putin and Russia, American supported Islamists would also have overthrown Assad and thrown the minority Christian community there into jeopardy.

•The complete naïveté of Obama and Hilary Clinton’s Middle Eastern policy is incredulous. For personal reasons he has turned Israel, America’s most stable ally in the region, into a pariah.

• Obama’s misplaced audacity during his visit earlier this year to Africa was alarming.

He had the effrontery to lecture among others Uhuru Kenyatta on the need to legalize and recognize Gay relationships.

At a time when Africa has more pressing issues to contend with such as economic and infrastructural development, trade and investment, this was unprecedented political arrogance and a waste of American taxpayers deserved better on that trip.

•For a Black President from whom so much was expected, his refusal to visit Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy and democracy, is an enormous lost opportunity.

Read full article online: www.thisdaylive.

Courage In Leadership: The Shettima Example Ismail Omipidan

I

t was in September, 2014. Governor Kashim Shettima of Borno State had embarked on planned assessment meetings with school authorities in Sudan and the United Kingdom, where 70 Students on the State’s sponsorship were undergoing undergraduate studies in Medicine and Geo-Sciences.

He had hardly arrived his first destination, when Boko Haram insurgents took over Bama Town, one of the most populated towns in the State, just about 70kilometres from Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

Palpable tension was in the air, as news went round that Maiduguri, the seat of power too, was about to be overran by the sect. Shettima immediately cut short his trip, took the next available flight, and by September 4, 2014, he arrived Abuja, where he held strategic meetings on the Bama takeover, including constituting a committee to oversee the distribution of relief materials to the victims of the Bama attack.

Done with the meeting, he announced his intention to return to Maiduguri, the next day, an intention almost everyone around him, including this writer kicked against. As one who had known him right from his days at the Zenith Bank, in Maiduguri, I sought an audience with him, where I tried unsuccessfully to persuade him from returning to Maiduguri, the next day. I had advised, he should instead stay for a few more days to return.

But the arguments he advanced, shocked me. Interestingly, he revealed some of those things in his public speeches and interactions with Journalists, sometimes last year. He had told me among other things: “Mallam Samaila (that’s how

Governor Shettima he calls me), it is better for me to be killed, serving my people, than for Maiduguri, with several internally displaced persons to fall to Boko Haram, while I am away. That will amount to cowardice.”

Seeing his courage and determination to return, I prayed with him, and wished him well. By the next day, Friday September 5, a day after he returned to Maiduguri, he addressed the citizens of the State, through a State-wide broadcast, and thereafter, moved round the city, the same way, our

Security Operatives carry out Show of Force, just to keep the spirit of the citizens alive, and to let them know he was not a runaway Governor.

Coincidentally, exactly two years after that traumatic and emotional day, family, friends and well wishers, numbering about 200, gathered in Maiduguri, to attend a reception in his honour, to mark his Golden Age. Ironically, the event was initially slated for Friday, September 2, 2016, the same day and date he was born 50 years ago, but a presidential appointment for the same date, forced organisers of the event, to shift it to Monday, September 5, 2016, thus, compelling me also to recall the events of September 5, 2014.

It will interest Nigerians and other readers to know that the reception was not the typical Owanbe kind of celebration, befitting of the status of a typical Nigerian State Governor, who attained the age of 50. There were no assorted drinks; we had water, soft drinks and your regular kinds of fruits- Apple and Pear. Not a dime was taken from the coffers of the State Government, to put the event, which lasted for just two hours, together. The list of donors and amount donated, were read out to the hearing of all of us seated in the hall. The donors, 30 of them, were coordinated by his Spokesman, Isa Umar Gusau.

And from the funds raised, 50 children, orphaned by Boko Haram, were given life line, with their school fees paid upfront for the next nine years. And just before we left the hall, Zenith Bank, his former employers, also keyed into the educational empowerment of the children orphaned

by Boko Haram, by offering to support additional 50 children, thus, bringing the number of beneficiaries to 100. Immediate past Governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu

Kwankwaso, chaired the event. Shettima’s lovely and ever supportive wife, Hajia Nana, was also on hand to lend her motherly support.

After the presentation of the awards and cutting of the cake, which was also donated, Governor Kashim Shettima, whom I know reluctantly accepted to be treated to the reception, thanked all those who attended, including those who stood by him, especially the kid brothers of his estranged political leader, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, during his (Shettima) political trials.

He also told the audience what those of us very close to him, had always known about his relationship with Sheriff. Hear him: “During our travails with our political leader, some of our politicians elected to stand on the side of truth and justice. I never fought Ali (Modu) Sheriff. Ali Sheriff fought me. He made himself a tin god, until God demystified him and put him where he rightly belongs.”

50 years is indeed regarded as a Golden Age. But as late Coco Chanel, an Influential French Fashion Designer puts it, “nature,” gives one the face one deserves at 20, but it is up to one to merit “the face” one has at 50 and even beyond.

With what I know about Kashim Shettima, right from his days at the Zenith Bank, and for the mere fact that since becoming Governor in 2011, he has never for once, gathered people to say he was marking his birthday, and for reluctantly accepting to be treated to a reception last Monday, I think he undoubtedly, merits “the face” he has, at 50. He has shown courage and leadership, in the last five years as Borno Governor. I pray he ends well. Happy Birthday to you sir!

–Omipidan, is an erstwhile Kaduna NUJ, acting Chairman.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

47

PERSPECTIVE

Garba Shehu, This is Definitely Not the Change Buhari Promised!

Jude Ndukwe

I

n his recent article titled ‘This is the Change’, President Muhammadu Buhari’s spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, embarked on an arduous but unsuccessful task of attempting to justify the economic hardship, biting hunger, political retrogression, judicial rascality, executive recklessness, electoral inconclusiveness, etc which have all become the indelible insignia of the Buhari-led administration.

Reading through the essay, one would have no choice but to have pity on a spokesperson who has nothing positive to write about his boss but must still write something positive all the same in order to help shore up his diminished rating.

Honestly, I feel for the president’s spokespersons; this is not the kind of president anyone would want to speak for as evidenced in Shehu’s and Femi Adeshina’s futile attempts to always want to ‘squeeze water from stone’ in order to convince Nigerians about Buhari.

Expectedly, Shehu started that essay rather lamely by reminding Nigerians of how they are now being asked after Buhari in London, Dubai, Beijing, Washington, New York or Tokyo. According to him, “Nigerians get the good feeling of being asked the question, how is President Muhammadu Buhari?”

There is no gainsaying the fact that this is very far from the truth. In Atlanta where the Dream Team VI were left stranded and got to the Rio Olympics same day they had their opening match in a Games of the Olympics magnitude says much about how other countries view our president.

Rather than ask how is President Buhari, Americans, Brazillians and indeed the world, who have never in the history of the world heard about a contingent arriving the Games the same day they have a match, would rather ask, what is wrong with President Buhari?

It is such a shame and smacks of excessive executive irresponsibility to allow athletes representing our great country to fend for themselves. Not even Syria or Iraq or any of the war-torn nations treated their athletes in such a shabby manner. As if that was not enough, it took a patriotic John Obi Mikel to take up the responsibility of a highly over-rated federal government to settle the hotel bills of the country’s football team to the tune of 4,600GBP singlehanded.

This should not be a surprise to anyone, it is only a reflection of how bad things have gone back home, so bad citizens of other countries now ask if there is a government in Nigeria.

Shehu in that his brazenly bizarre essay alluded to the fallacy that the current

Siasia perception of Nigeria is the type that can lead to attracting foreign investments to the country. With such falsehood, one need not wonder why our economy is as bad as it is now, for while the economy is officially in recession, our stock market has lost close to a whopping N2trn within just 15 months, while foreigners are running away in droves, yet, Shehu has the temerity to talk about attracting foreign investments into Nigeria?

What this simply means is that people who are closest to the president have detached themselves from the reality on ground, no wonder they are driving Nigeria remorselessly into economic oblivion and political obliteration.

It is laughable that Shehu and his ilk still bask in the false euphoria of a non-existing support for Buhari “among the lower segment of the local population”. Such support which, in truth, did exist in mass at the early life of this administration has since faded into thin air. The fact of the matter is that in the days leading to the general elections and the ones immediately following, a good part of Nigeria’s populace supported Buhari even up to a fanatical point. Taxi drivers, commercial tricycle operators, shopkeepers, okada riders etc, did not only chant “Sai Buhari”, a majority of them proudly tied the broom which is the ruling party’s symbol and had APC and Buhari’s stickers wantonly displayed on their wares, their vehicles and every other place possible as a sign of solidarity and

support for the president.

In fact, one embarked on the needless and self-inflicted punitive journey by foot from Lagos to Abuja just to celebrate his ‘hero’ in the aftermath of that election. A few others soon joined, trekking from one far city to another as it created a bandwagon effect.

But just 15 months after his inauguration, the people have realized that Buhari’s promises to them during the campaigns were nothing but a mere mirage and hoodwink; these same set of people who just 15 months ago chanted “Sai Baba” with reckless abandon have hurriedly and angrily removed anything that has to do with Buhari and APC from their wares and vehicles and have since dissociated themselves from the president and his obviously incompetent party. The urgency with which they have done this is akin to the urgency needed to remove a cancerous growth from the body. The song has since simply changed from “Sai Baba” to “Chai Baba”.

To make matters worse, Garba Shehu in his frustration, inferred that the press has given more prominence to the activities of Boko Haram, the same one they claimed they have defeated, and “pipeline vandal from the Delta region…than the Minister of Labour, Governor Ngige or the Finance Minister, Kemi Adeosun, talking about job creation in the economy”.

Shehu should know that there is nothing new in this as a good section of the media is already used to this line of reportage having been used by the APC to spin and report only negative stories and falsehood against the government of former President Goodluck Jonathan while under-reporting or even ignoring his achievements, all in a bid to score banal political points. The presidential spokesman should stop complaining about this; he and his principals are only naturally reaping whirlwind today from the wind they sowed yesterday!

The deserved criticism of the government of the day has, as usual, been placed at the door step of officials of the last administration as its sponsors. Nothing can be further from the truth. Nigerians do not need anyone to tell them how biting the current hardship on them is. No matter how much the Buhari administration tries to cover up its mess, they should know that you can only tell a blind man that there is no oil in the soup but you cannot tell him that there is no salt in it.

In trying to further vilify the past administration as is their practice, Shehu claimed that the ‘war on corruption’ “has forced the return to the treasury of billions of Naira and millions of Dollars stolen by past officials”, yet, Buhari keeps telling Nigerians that we are broke and uses this as a reason for his obvious economic

incompetence. What then happened to the billions of Naira and millions of Dollars always gleefully claimed to have been returned by suspected ‘looters’? Have they also been re-looted?

What has also happened to the N2trn claimed by Garba to have been saved annually by this government from the removal of fuel subsidy? Does this not mean that some good money must have been saved between when the subsidy was removed and now?

What is happening to those funds?

What about the money Garba also said have been saved from reducing the number of ministries from 46 to 24? The height of sophistry is when in one breath you say Nigeria has recovered and saved billions of naira and millions of dollars from various sources but also say that the country is broke because oil prices have dropped! Garba Shehu and his masters speak from both sides of the mouth and seem to also have a case to answer!

The continued excuses that low oil price is a major factor militating against Buhari’s performance is nothing but a frequently rehashed story concocted to cover up the failure of this government. Does it mean that if per adventure Nigeria’s oil dries up today, Buhari would be justified for making Nigerians hungry and leaving many more die needlessly?

Even in the face of prosperity, Buhari and his men have proved to be bad managers of resources. Or, how else can one explain the avoidable death from malnutrition and other health factors of over a thousand Nigerian children and women placed in the direct care of government in internally displaced persons, (IDP) camps in the northeast despite the abundance of resources, some from international agencies and donors?

Just like Prince Deji Adeyanju, an aspirant to the office of National Publicity Secretary in PDP’s last convention at Port Harcourt, said in one of his facebook posts, before this government came to power, they had all the solutions to all our problems but now that they are in power, they have only excuses for all our problems. How apt!

The likes of Garba Shehu should not think they can succeed this time in deceiving Nigerians. One is sure that APC and their goons now realize that it was easier to lie to the people when they were in opposition than now that they are ruling.

The lesson in all this is that propaganda, lies and deceit may get you power, but performance, and not excuses, is required to remain there!

Buhari and APC now know better. The people have also come to realize that the change agenda of the federal government is nothing but a ‘one chance’ agenda!

Someone should tell Garba Shehu that this is certainly not the change!

– jrndukwe@yahoo.co.uk; Twitter: @ StJudeNdukwe

Battling with the People’s Consciousness in Edo Sufuyan Ojeifo

E

do people have become very politically enlightened and there is no amount of shenanigans and sweet talks that will mitigate their consciousness and readiness to effect a change of government in the State on September 28, or any other date that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) may be corralled to fix for the governorship election. The current realities of poverty and hunger, aggravated by an economic recession into which the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government has plunged the nation, have made the case for continuity by the APC in Edo State spurious, puerile, despicable and indefensible.

The continuity mantra by Governor Adams Oshiomhole and his APC choir members has been sounding like a broken record in the ears. Oshiomhole was aware

of this long before the imposition of his crony, Godwin Obaseki, on the party as its governorship candidate. He also singlehanded chose a man from his Uzairue clan, Hon Phillip Shaibu, as Obaseki’s running mate at the expense of better qualified and more politically astute persons from Owan and Akoko-Edo axis of Edo North Senatorial zone. It was the height of impudence and condescending haughtiness by the comrade governor, having been in office for close to eight years, to take the rather impolitic decision to cede the deputy governorship position to his local government.

In this entire charade, the governor, in exercise of his “imperial” power as the new godfather of his party, still wanted those shortchanged by his squeaky meddlesomeness in the primary, to applaud his gambit.

Those persons, some of who are the finest political leaders from Edo South and Edo Central zones, would not kowtow and have quietly withdrawn from the APC electioneering. Thus, Oshiomhole’s long and frenzied

speeches at political rallies, as if he is the governorship candidate, stemmed from the gulf of hopelessness created by his brutal act of muscling aside persons whose candidatures could have inspired and sustained people’s confidence in whatever is left of his heavily tele-guided and manipulated APC structure.

From all indications, Oshiomhole seems destined for the prize of APC’s ultimate undertaker in Edo. He has lost the goodwill he enjoyed in his first term in office. To be sure, that goodwill accounted for his re-election in 2012. But the scenario, this time, is different.

The people, who are victims of Oshiomhole’s bad governance, harsh tax regime and multiple levies, no longer see in him the fatherly figure that made them, during his first term, to coin the moniker: Oshio Baba! That moniker has been variously bastardised to deride the once-acclaimed performer. It became so bad that political pundits have concluded that Oshiomhole is Obaseki’s albatross; that rather than enhance Obaseki’s candidature, he has

actually substantially subtracted from it.

That was the mindset with which Edo people were going for the September 10 governorship election before it was postponed. The Police and the Department of State Security came to the temporary rescue of Oshiomhole and APC by forcing a security advice on the INEC to shift the poll. INEC, itself, was not convinced by the security advice. The PDP and Election Monitoring/ Observation groups were also not convinced.

They, therefore, criticised the security advice and the eventual postponement of the election. For me, I can understand, to some extent, the intrigues that Oshiomhole and the APC have introduced into the entire electoral process. It has been a question of exploring all the plans and options to salvage a hopeless situation.

–Mr Ojeifo, Editor-in-Chief of The Congresswatch magazine, sent this piece via ojwonderngr@yahoo.com

Read full article online: www.thisdaylive.

48

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016 WITH

MARITIME BITS

JOHN IWORI

08057763164

R-L: Minister of Transportation, Right Hon. Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, Managing Director of Westblue Consulting Limited, Ms. Valentina Sowu Mintah, and the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), Mr. Hassan Bello at the two days African Ports Evolution Workshop and Exhibition, Accra, Ghana…recently

L-R: Managing Director/CEO of STARZ Group, Engr. Greg Ogbeifun; Executive Director, Human Resources and Administration, SIFAX Group, Dr. Fola Rogers-Saliu; Managing Director, Lagos Deep Offshore Logistics Base (LADOL), Dr. Amy Jadesimi, Executive Director, SIFAX Haulage, Major Henry Ajetunmobi (rtd), and President, Women International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA Nigeria), Mrs. Jean Chaizor Anishere, at the 1st Taiwo Afolabi annual maritime conference at the University of Lagos...recently

Customs Chief Disguises, Uncovers Lapses at APMTerminals Several illegalities take place in the Nigerian port environment. In many instances, these lapses are to the knowledge of the public. In some cases, they are not to the knowledge of the public.

Besides, concealments and under-declarations are rife. This is often done to evade customs duty payment or reduce the payable amount.

A case in port was the recent discovery of 31 containers laden with a total of 14, 000 bags of rice which was falsely declared by the consignee in collaboration with his licensed customs agent as yeast. In fact, very few stakeholders in the cargo clearance chain live up to expectations.

Behind the public posturing, there are a lot of under hand dealings in the ports. It is one of the reasons why cargo dwell time (CDT) remains high in Nigerian ports. This arises from the

absence of relevant officials at their duty post or the outright refusal of those concerned to carry out their statutory roles and responsibilities. It was in a bid to address some of these anomalies that the Zonal Coordinator, Zone A, Assistant Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, ACG Eporwei Charles Edike decided to find things for himself. It was a mission to get first-hand information on the true state of things in the nation’s seaports under his purview. This informed Edike’s recent visit to some of the sea ports in Lagos. It was not a usual visit. It was a visit in disguise. He was in the port unannounced.

To say the least, the visit paid off, as the Customs Chief uncovered some of the anomalies taking place in Nigeria’s premier port, Apapa

NSC Handles 2000 Cases of Trade Disputes No fewer than 2000 cases of trade disputes have been treated by the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) since the council became the port economic regulator.

The efforts of the council also led to the receipt of N20, 834, 000 from a foreign based company after the intervention of the council on behalf of some Nigerian shippers.

The Executive Secretary, NSC, Mr. Hassan Bello who stated his recently in Lagos said the council would achieve more after the on-going restructuring of the council is completed. The efforts of the council are already attracting accolades from stakeholders in the maritime industry and beyond.

They expressed delight that the council has provided a platform through its Cargo Defence Fund (CDF) to resolve the grievances of shippers.

Commending the agency for recovering the sum of N6 million as container deposit for Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and four vehicles for Olusoji Alade, they noted that it is indeed an era of a new Nigeria.

Alade explained that an unknown person has used a fake telex and his national drivers’ license to clear the three containerized vehicles at the Tin Can Island Port Lagos, before his agent reported to the police. “I went to the police which in turn directed me to the NSC. Like in a movie, the council personnel swung into action and before 21 days, they did not only recovered by vehicles, they saved me from losing the sum of N2,797,914.75 to a fraudulent clearing agent”, he said.

NSC was also commended for resolving issues as outlined in a letter of protests dated June 2, 2016 written by Kezim Services Agency Limited.

A frontline customs license agency, Duncan Maritime Ventures Limited, which spoke through its General Manager, Mr. Abiodun Barde, said the firm was amazed at the hospitality and friendly atmosphere exhibited by the personnel of the council which convened the meeting to resolve their protest.

“We hope these attributes will continue so that the maritime industry will grow,” he added.

The National Association of Government Approved freight forwarders, NAGAFF, through its Tin Can Island, Port, Apapa, Lagos chapter also expressed delight that NSC responded swiftly to its appeal on demurrage waiver on 15 x 40 containers belonging to Messrs SIM Nigeria Limited. Its Secretary, Deacon Dike Kate said: “We congratulate the apex regulatory body for their quick response and the reduction therein from three foreign shipping companies namely: Maersk Line Nigeria; China Shipping and Safemarine Shipping. We wish the management of Nigerian Shippers Council more fruitful services to Nigeria”.

Container Terminal (ACT) presently under concession to APM Terminals Apapa Limited, one of the subsidiaries of Danish port operations and logistic giant, AP Moeller Maersk Group.

Without escorts and aides, Edike mingled with agents and customs officers inside and outside NCS offices in order to ascertain the level of efficiency and quality of service rendered to port users.

Dressed in plain jeans and T-shirt, the ACG was in ACT early in the morning, moving from one office to the other to see things for himself.

At APMT office in ACT, Edike met a huge crowd of port users, especially licensed customs agents who were begging APM officials to attend to them.

A statement signed by the Public Relations

Onne Port Moves to Sanitise Access Roads In a bid to ease the free flow of traffic, the management of Nigerian Port Authority (NPA), Onne Port Complex has expressed it readiness to sanitise the port access road.

To this end, the authority has concluded plans to tackle the challenges of criminality and indiscriminate truck parking along the Onne port access road in Rivers State.

The Onne Port Complex Manager, Mr. Durowaiye Ayodele stated this recently at a road show by the authority to sensitize truck owners/drivers on the security implication of parking trucks indiscriminately along the access Port road in Onne.

He expressed concern that truck parked indiscriminately often times becomes a haven for hoodlums who hide under such trucks to attack unsuspecting members of the public who are at the port to do business.

He said that the NPA officials particularly from the security department, the Port Police, the Onne Police Division and all other security agencies would work in synergy to enforce the decongestion

exercise adding that the traffic management system by the Port Authority is integrated in conjunction with the host community management system.

Prior to the sensitization road show in Onne tagged, ‘’Operation Free Onne Port Roads No Parking, No Waiting and No Loitering’’ the Port Manager noted that, the indiscriminate parking of trucks from the Port Federal Ocean Terminal (FOT) junction to Notore Fertilizer and Chemical roundabout, ‘is not only a nuisance but also a threat to lives and property of all stakeholders using the access road’’.

The pro-active measure according to him, “ is to nip on the bud, the ugly phenomenon of traffic gridlock in the nearest feature and the NPA Onne management in its foresight envisage the menace and lock jams of traffic in the port as it is happening now’’.

He reiterated that after the clearing of the road, women of the host communities would be deployed to sweep the road on daily basis as part of NPA corporate social responsibility (CSR) functions.

John Holt Unveils Modern Fire FightingTruck In its bid to protect lives and property and meet its corporate social responsibilities (CSR), the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS) received delivery of an ultra-modern Rosenbauer fire fighting truck from John Holt Plc which was unveiled recently at NAPIMS premises in Lagos.

Present at the commissioning of the TLF 9000/500/750 fire truck were the General Manager of John Holt Fire and Safety Solutions, Kris Nwachukwu, Rosenbauer International Engineer from Austria, Roland Loitz, the Group General Manager of NAPIMS, Engr.

Dafe Sejebor and the management and staff of NAPIMS. In his remarks at the occasion, Nwachukwu stated that the truck being commissioned is a triple agent fire truck which has the capacity to

extinguish ground fire (beneath the truck as it moves) as well as fire at upper floors.

According to him, the company team does not just manufacture and deliver fire trucks to customers, but offers intensive operational training for firemen/HSE units so as to make them fire combat ready in conformity with International standards. Recall that in recent times, we have had a series of fire incidents in Nigeria resulting in loss of lives and property.

Continuing, he said: “The time has come for us to review our policy on and approach to fire safety.

We in John Holt are ready to partner with the government, corporate organisations and stakeholders in this regard using our very many years of experience and expertise”

Officer (PRO), NCS Zone A, Yaba, Lagos, Mr. Haruna Joseph Epharim and made available to THISDAY said: “This drew the ire of the Zonal Coordinator. He had to reveal his identity in order to address the situation. He asked the APMT officials to avoid delaying agents unnecessarily. Time is money. Every second counts. By delaying these people cost of doing business is increased. It also makes our ports unattractive to customers. We must eliminate delays to reduce time and costs if our ports are to be competitive and attractive to port users within the West African Sub-Region”.

The ACG entered customs offices unannounced.

He inspected the offices and officers and charged them to sit up and live up to expectations of their calling.

Maritime Expert Hails NCS A maritime expert, Prince Olu Ologbese has hailed the strides made by the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) since the appointment of Colonel Ibrahim Ali (retired) as its Comptroller General.

Ologbese who is also the Chairman and chief executive officer of Ogbese Marine Services LimitedRTD) said NCS under the leadership of the retired military officer has done well in generating huge amount of revenue into government coffer in this critical time the President Muhammad Buhari is seriously in need of liquid cash to help him perform and fulfill his electoral promises to Nigerians.

According to the maritime expert who is popularly called “Alaye”, the Nigeria Custom Service under the leadership of Ali has not left any stone unturned in blocking all revenue leakages.

He also sent a stern warning to discipline or jail any erring officer who fails to comply with the extant rules and regulations in the discharge of their statutory roles and responsibilities.

Continuing, Ologbese who is also the life patron of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo/Ekiti chapter, stated that he hinged his assessment of the NCS boss on the downturn on the economy which has made the maritime industry to be in very trying times.

His words: “when one considers the difficult situation in the maritime industry caused by the scarcity of the United States of America (USA) dollars for the importers and the suspension of 41 items from import list by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Nigeria Custom Service deserves kudos for bringing in these impressive results so far. For Apapa port to generate N35 billion revenue alone in August and Tin Can Island Port generated N26.2 billion in the same month is encouraging”.

According to him, Ali has adjudged the Muritala Muhammad Ikeja Command a lovely command because of its good performance. It has consistently exceeding its target. This was not the case in the past.

The maritime expert enjoined Ali to hesitate in reciprocating and compensating officers and men of the service so as to motivate them to do more in the discharge of their functions in the months ahead.

49

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

WRITERS’ WORLD

Welcome to Hybrid Publishing Nature is simple! So are its laws. And Economists must have borrowed from nature the law that there is equilibrium in pricing only when demand is equal to supply. There are distortions when one side of the balance tips. Higher supply than demand causes prices to crash, while the reverse results in price hikes. In the later case, when prices are forced by legislation or the authorities, what you have a thriving black market, as we have in the foreign exchange market in Nigeria. This simple law of nature is also at play in the publishing industry worldwide

A

ll over the world, authors and manuscripts are far in excess of the capacity of traditional publishers. In the good all days, all a writer needed to do was to finish a manuscript and send to a publisher, whose bit in the publishing chain was edit, polish accepted manuscripts for market suitability, print copies, sell them and pay royalties to the author. Some publishers even paid advance royalty.

Not so now! Overwhelmed with book queries, most publishers depend on agents to do the sorting for only exceptional manuscripts. Most manuscripts are rejected! As a way out, many authors have resorted to self-publishing.

But there is a middle way, a third option.

Welcome to hybrid publishing! Hybrid publishers look to combine the best of traditional and self-publishing.

In a review of this option, Publishers Weekly notes that it fuses aspects of traditional publishing with self-publishing, often for an up-front fee.

The weekly continues: “Hybrid publishing is an often-confusing term,” says Mark Lefebvre, director of self-publishing and author relations at Kobo. “You could be talking about a type of assisted self-publishing, where a company that has in-house expertise gives authors the ability to pay for those services and will publish virtually any manuscript that crosses their threshold; or referring to a model where the author might invest up front but there is editorial evaluation and input, and publishing projects are chosen based on their merit as a sellable product.”

Further creating confusion is the fact that a “hybrid author” has nothing to do with a hybrid publisher. The former is, as Mark Coker, founder and CEO of Smashwords, points out, “an author who publishes books both with conventional publishers and who also self-publishes.”

Also complicating matters is the fact that publishers once called vanity presses—those that offer supported self-publishing services and will publish whatever manuscripts come their way once the authors’ checks clear—could technically be called hybrid, because they leverage traditional publishing aspects along with the pay-to-play method of self-publishing. Author Solutions has a number of supported self-publishing imprints, including AuthorHouse, iUniverse, Trafford

Youcouldbetalking aboutatypeofassisted self-publishing,wherea companythathasin-house expertisegivesauthors theabilitytopayforthose servicesandwillpublish virtuallyanymanuscriptthat crossestheirthreshold;or referringtoamodelwhere theauthormightinvestup frontbutthereiseditorial evaluationandinput,and publishingprojectsare chosenbasedontheirmerit asasellableproduct

Publishing, Wordclay, and Xlibris, all of which fit the definition of hybrid. The company also has partner imprints in alliance with traditional publishing houses.

Though it may be fair to call all of the above hybrids, they skew more toward self-publishing because almost any author can publish with them. The hybrid publishers that stand out more clearly are those that screen submissions and have a strong sense of branding.

in the business, but authors must recognize that this comes with trade-offs,” says Dave Lane, managing publisher and editor. “We offer print books, but we utilize the print-on-demand services of Lightning Source. As a division of Ingram, they’re able to make our books available everywhere in the world, and their quality levels are good, [but] those print books do not go into broad distribution in the way they would with a traditional publisher.”

The Major Players

4 Things All Writers Should Know

“What defines a hybrid publisher is not being made clear, and I am not sure that it can be, [but] when I look at what defines a hybrid publisher, [I see] a level of curation,” publishing industry consultant Jane Friedman says. “Not everyone who walks through the door can get published.”

Amy Edelman, president and founder of IndieReader, says the “better” hybrid publishers are the ones that “vet the books before agreeing to take them on.” She Writes Press, Evolved Publishing, EverAfter, and Inkshares follow this model, though they all operate very differently from one another. SWP, which publishes books for, by, and about women, charges a fee of $4,900 per title for a bundle of services that includes distribution, e-book file preparation and upload, proofreading, and custom design, among other services. Authors retain 60 per cent of the net profits on print books and close to 80% of the net profits on e-books.

“Our authors pay, but they have creative control and keep more of the financial reward by getting most of their royalties,” says Crystal Patriarche, CEO of SWP and its parent company, SparkPoint Studio, adding that authors also go on national press tours twice per year and have access to webinars and other educational tools.

They are strongly encouraged to hire publicists, either on their own or through BookSparks, SWP’s sister public relations company under the SparkPoint umbrella.

With Evolved, which publishes mostly fiction and some nonfiction, authors are not required to pay an up-front fee, though they can pay for services such as editing or cover art, enabling them to maximize their retailer royalty rates, which are up to 81 per cent. “We pride ourselves on offering the highest royalty rates

Brooke Warner, author, publisher of She Writes Press, and president of Warner Coaching Inc., has identified four salient things writers should know about hybrid publishing.

Traditional publishers have been brokering hybrid publishing deals for years: The precedent for hybrid models goes back years and years. A number of publishers have cut deals with authors for what might have been qualified as “distribution deals,” “hybrid publishing arrangements,” or “copublishing ventures.” All this means is that the author pays up front in some capacity. This might be for part or all of the print run or the cost of production. In exchange, the author is usually negotiating a higher royalty rate, since they’ve invested in their own work.

The only downside to this variation of hybrid publishing is that it’s not transparent. Most of the traditional publishers who do it don’t talk about it, because the concept of authors paying to publish is so heavily stigmatized. In fact, it’s still the case that authors who subsidize any part of their work are barred from submitting their work to some reviewers and to many contests. These authors do not qualify for membership in certain writers’ associations. (Thankfully, many review outlets, contests, and associations are changing their tune on this, but not enough of them and not fast enough.)

Partnership publishing models: Models like these include my own publishing company, She Writes Press. Our authors absorb the financial risk of their publishing endeavor in exchange for high royalties. We offer traditional distribution (which we’ll explore in detail in Chapter 6) and all the benefits that brings. Partnership

BISI DANIELS bisi.daniels@thisdaylive.com Blog: www.bisidaniels.com, 08093618000

publishing models like She Writes Press are exciting in that they offer authors access—to review sites, to a sales force selling their books into the marketplace, and to a partnership with a publisher that has a strong reputation with booksellers. The downside, however, is that there’s a real financial risk. Publishers mostly don’t earn out their investments on books they acquire, and partnership publishing is no different. You are assuming the financial risk for access and for the possibility of a high reward.

However, it’s a competitive marketplace out there, and I always encourage authors to go into this option with their eyes wide open. It’s not a foregone conclusion that your investment will be recouped.

Agent-assisted publishing models: Many agents are starting their own publishing companies in order to publish the works of authors whose books they cannot sell. For the most part, these efforts are valiant. Agents feel strongly about the work they’re seeing and want to find an outlet where these authors can be published. They’re hybrid because the authors are being published under the agent’s imprint.

What these models lack to date is any kind of effective distribution method. Where they excel, and what makes them like the other two models above, is in understanding publishing and putting out quality books that their authors can be proud of. One asset here as well may be on the foreign-market side. If your agent continues to represent you and has published your book, it’s likely they will make strong efforts to sell foreign editions of your work, so be sure to ask.

Other assisted publishing models: What makes assisted self-publishing models different from the partnership and agent-assisted models is that they may or may not be run by someone who knows about books. In these cases, you are paying someone to help you publish. You are not working with a team that is going to publish your work under their imprint. This model really qualifies more as self-publishing than as hybrid.

However, I believe it’s important to include these models here, more as a caution to aspiring authors than anything else. Just because you are working with a company does not mean that it is a good hybrid company with services that will help your book succeed. The market for book publishing has exploded, and as a result a number of companies have cropped up to deal with the pain points unique to authors— namely, that getting a book from manuscript to publication is a complicated process. Many of these companies have given the word “vanity” some propulsion because they’re not vetting and they don’t care about editorial quality.

50

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • September 10, 2016

BUSINESS ISSUE

Pushing Economic Integration through Diplomatic Channels Prior efforts to make the African economy work for African countries were fraught with frustration and little success. Factors like artificial boundaries, lack of faith in implementation of treaties as well as human greed have hindered needed success. The result is that nations on the continent import from advanced economies, items they could get faster and at cheaper rate from brother nations thereby engendering poverty. In a proactive measure to open bilateral doors in addition to multilateral efforts, the Ambassador of Nigeria to Cote D’Ivoire, Ifeoma Akabogu Chinwuba in collaboration with Socio Cultural Integrations of African Youths Organisation, SCIAYO, organised a made in Nigeria exhibition in Cote D’Ivoire aimed at sensitising both countries on opportunities to improve trade as well as free movement of goods and persons between Nigeria and Cote D’Ivore. Ahamefula Ogbu who was at the event reports

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hough it was initially slated to hold as a trade fair to feature made in Nigeria goods as a means of extending the campaign for patronage of goods locally produced in the country, intrigues by stakeholders in Nigeria and other organisations based in the host country ensured it was scaled down to an exhibition. Once the programme started taking shape, groups emerged challenging the organisers and sought to stop the programme on the excuse that they had been planning same for the past 20 years; insisting that allowing it to hold under the organisers was akin to stealing their ideas. However, the storm was finally weathered and the programmme held.

A look at the intention of the exercise demonstrates its usefulness as Nigerian companies in various sectors are already suited to provide some services and supplies that are currently done by countries outside the Economic Community of West African Countries, ECOWAS and the African Union. The opportunities are many while the cooperation could stop the bleeding of African economies.

The effort appears to support previous schemes especially by the African Parliament in Midrands, South Africa during the tenure of Honourable Bethel Amadi as President where efforts were made to integrate the regional and continental economies with some level of success. However, the number of artificial boundaries that screen off member countries of ECOWAS and the AU attests that much still need to be done.

Also, that after so many years of mouthing economic integration, the free movement of goods and persons is still being discussed is a pointer to the levels of frustration.

At the venue of the De La Foire Du Nigeria, Caistab, Plateau, Abidjan,the programme appeared well thought out as organisations that would facilitate the free trade which an increase of about two per cent would generate several billions of dollars that could enhance the economic fortunes of the continent.

The Cote D’Ivoire effort according to Chinwuba was an attempt to revive the effort at economic integration at a different level. She noted that efforts had been at multilateral level and her scheme was to see what could be done at the bilateral level to compliment what were being done at other levels “What we are doing is economic diplomacy, that is trying to expose potentials, capabilities of your country to these other countries, to expose the economic potentials of Nigerian operators to our brothers here to see if they can get distributors and buyers of their goods so that Ivoriens can source this from Nigeria instead of from elsewhere”, she said.

Asked of the frequency of the event in future, she stated that it should be an annual event but that since the life of diplomats concerning their postings were normadic, it could depend on the progammme of who might be in charge at any time but opined that it should be an annual or biennial event so that more people and Nigerian businesses could participate, more opportunities given and people would expect when it would take place and prepare for it.

On the expectation from the exhibition, Chinwuba said, “We represent government

Ambassador Chinwuba

and our expectation is that we sensitise economic operators especially about what is available in Nigeria to import instead of going to China or Dubai or outside our region. We are member of ECOWAS, Nigeria and Cote D’Ivoire are members and in 40 years since ECOWAS was formed, the rate of integration is placed at 12 per cent which means that integration is at a very low level. That means that more should be done to integrate our economies ; this is one step in that direction, we are trying to publicise what we have so that people from here won’t have to go outside to get them. From the point of view of Tourism, not just about goods and consumables but also spending their weekends and fee time in Nigeria. Here is a foremost economy for the Francophone countries and here you have the population of 24 million people but only 15 million are Ivoriens, the remaining nine or 10 million are from outside. We have about 2 million Nigerians here, Lebanese, Senegalese, Bukinabes and so on, so it is a melting point; so if you can get this market, you are not only getting the Ivoriens but people that are coming from other places can buy from Nigeria and send to their home countries”.

She observed that there had been a lot of conferences and efforts to achieve integration but saw the need for individual countries to do more and not leave it to ECOWAS to do but explore multilateral and bilateral efforts, anything that could be done too make people within the region buy from within ECOWAS. She advocated the organisation of dialogues, conferences and other sensitisation programmes on how to patronise each other.

She cited the pharmaceutical sector which were well represented in the exhibition and some of the pharmaceutical companies that came gave their products to the Minister of

integration for evaluation and conformity so that they can be given to the Minister for health to see how they they can procure medicines from Nigeria and Nigeria would have done something to integrate as any naira or kobo that was exchanged between the two countries was definitely promoting integration within ECOWAS”.

On why the colonial masters were still tying Affrican countries to their apron strings, Chinwuba explained that countries by signing to ECOWAS and AU agreements, they were signing to open up the economies though there were things that militated against the expected results as ties with colonial masters preceded the ECOWAS and AU agreements. She pointed out that the commitment of the countries to the stability and welfare of the people of their former colonies could not be ignored, adding, “This country got independence in 1960 while ECOWAS and AU came afterwords. There were agreements they entered into earlier with their colonial masters and those cannot be thrown overboard. There are very close relations between France and their former colonies. The intervention of France during the crises in the country and the role France was still playing in Mali where some of their soldiers were paying the supreme price explains their level of commitment that tied them to those countries which could not be wished away as it was a whole package though there was need to keep pushing for more integration”.

She also explained that there were many Nigerian businessmen in the country and that they were still staying in Ivory Coast because business was good though there were man-made factors militating against the general objective that could be tied to individuals at various entry and exit points.

Demand for gratifications by individuals,

insisting payment for use of virgin passports to enter a country and arbitrary collection of customs charges on goods and passage of vehicles were still issues which she likened to a government signing a policy of free education but allowed levies above the cost of fees to what was happening in the sub region which she blamed on human factors.

She pressed for free passage of persons and goods to compliment other gains like entry without visa unlike in other parts of the world. While making light of excuses people make about visiting Nigeria, she in her opening remarks pointed out how Mike Zuckerberg, the facebook founder freely moved on Lagos streets to dispel insinuations of security concern and urged them to visit and spend time in Nigeria since if multi-billionaire like Zuckerberg could move freely in cities of Nigeria without security and not coming to harm, other Africans could do same and promote tourism.

On what gingered the programme, she said that she observed that Pakistani people had their day and exhibitions, same with Egypt and some other countries. When she inquired if Nigeria had her day too, she was told it was about 30 years ago and that it was on traditional medicine but none on fair of goods and services; then she set about planning to do so through the chamber of commerce on trade missions where businessmen from both countries could interact and chart way forward.

She said to encourage patronage of goods to increase revenue was part of their call of duty. She encountered the problem of remittances, companies that wanted to participate but could not remit their monies, reluntance of some companies who may not have believed in the progrmme holding, spending too long on the road by exhibitors who were delayed on the way were part of the problems, adding that though they had started small, it was going to be bigger in due time.

Interacting with participants at the exhibition brought certain issues to the fore. An Ivorien who did not want his name mentioned told THISDAY that they had fears of being overwhelmed by the sheer population of Nigerians that could flood and take over their economy, pointing out that there were over two million Yorubas from Ejigbo Local Government Area alone, besides the Igbos and Hausas. They also fear the aggressive nature of Nigerian entrepreneurs which could take a lot of things from them but admitted that goods from Nigeria were cheaper while some of the pharmaceutical products they have tried are more effective than those imported from other places.

An official of Pharmatex, a Nigerian company at the exhibition, Mr. Gabriel Akwaja said they had submitted their products for any scientific verification to prove they were of world standard, pointing out that because it concerned health and life of people, more stringent frameworks were needed to certify them but said they were for the country to have the needed confidence and were even working from the angle of World Health Organisation to clear the products. They however submitted them to their various ministries for authentication. He observed that they were already looking for a warehouse and distributors for their products which would also generate employment for the citizens, adding that a comparative cost analysis showed it was cheaper for them

51

SEPTEMBER 10, 2016 • THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER

EXPRESSION

MEDIAGAFFES

Walks, Not Works, Of Life

EBERE WABARA

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HISDAY front and inside pages of August 27 circulated copious errors: “Buhari gives nod for NPA, NIMASA governing board (boards)” “Most of the maternity clothings are non-breathable fabric.” ‘Clothing’ is uncountable.

“However, their European exploits has (why?) meant that they have avoided mid-week cup duties, so they will have fresher players.”

“Spurs struggled in the opening hour against Everton and managed to breakdown (break down) Crystal Palace until later in the game….”

Global soccer: phrasal verbs cannot function as compound words.

“Kenya (Kenyan) athletes angry at Rio shanty accommodation” “The launch of the Get Involved Project is an opportunity for all well meaning (well-meaning) Nigerians from all works (walks) of life to lend their support to this noble cause.” (Full-page advertorial by Get Involved, THISDAY,August 27) “In the past 25 years, we have moved up as one great family bounded together (bound) by one love and common vision for a greater tomorrow.”

‘Together’ here is otiose. (Full-page advertorial signed by Dr. Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu, Hon. Minister of State for Petroleum Resources) “I see able-bodied men looking for handouts everyday and getting upset when they don’t recieve (receive).”

“The funeral service for late (the late) Olori….”

“He is a versatile Christian preacher who has held several leadership position (positions) in Nigeria’s Christian circle.” “…the activities of micro, small and medium scale (medium-scale) enterprises which is (are) to be the gateway to the recovery of our ailing economy.”

The last entry from THISDAY under focus; “ “Persecutions: Northern CAN preaches unity amongst (among) members” “Back to School (Back-to-School) tips” (Fullpage advertisement by Guaranty Trust Bank, THISDAY, September 3) “Our range of premium services make (makes) it easy and convenient for you to simply relax or plan for the future.” (Full-page advertisement by Diamond, Your Bank, THISDAY, September 3) Reality check: a clear case of error of attraction “Indeed, as theAPC’s plethora of governor-

ship aspirants go (goes) into battle today at its primary election, the delegates, as they make their choice (choices)….”

“Research have (has) identified a biological process that may cause the failure of….”

“How can you get the biggest bang for your diet and exercise buck, as it were?” ‘Bang’ does not require any amplification or embellishment or intensification (biggest) because of its absoluteness.

“Modalities for 2016 Maltina Teacher of the Year revealed” The modalities could not have been a secret! Therefore, modalities…announced, released, publicized, et al.

Still on THISDAY of September 3, 2016: “We didn’t shut-down (shut down), sack workers, says Innoson” Lexical explanation already adduced.

“As part of its contribution (contributions) towards building a generation of well-rounded 21st century women….”

DAILY SUN ofAugust 29 takes over from THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER under review: “Casualisation (sic): FG reads riot (the riot) act… as NUFBTE commissions (inaugurates) 2nd phase of union’s hotel” “In Nigeria and across the world, media practitioners (professionals) continue to face harrowing times” “Meanwhile, Rivers Police Command said it will (would) ‘hunt down his killer(s)’ and that investigation has (had) commenced.”

“And no government would even allow for that.” Back story: delete ‘for’.

“Singapore jails senior civil servants over (for) corruption” “ANApostponements (sic) (postpones) July reading” “Peugeot plans to inject $7.26b on (into) research, development” “SouthAfricanAirways celebrates 80 years (years’ or 80th year) anniversary” “You lived well and you have gone to (preferably for) a well deserved (well-deserved) rest. Rest in perfect peace.” (Full-page obituary) Except for graveyard peace, ‘peace’ is an absolute and does not need inflection, intensification or adumbration. So, rest in peace (R.I.P—not R.I.P.P)!

“One has witnessed at different occasions dissenting opinions of doctors as regards prescriptions for patient’s (a patient’s) ailment.” The Guardian youth speak: on different occasions.

Next is DAILY TRUST of July 11: “Alhaji

Muhammed Sa’adAbubakar spoke at his palace in Sokoto….” Does the Sultan of Sokoto have another palace elsewhere? Let us think as we report.

“Heritage Bank plans listing in (on) capital market” “Pact with China conducive for peace, says Taiwan (Taiwan’s or Taiwanese) president” “Otherwise, there is no point we engage in importing that much on yearly (a yearly) basis.” “…he said though the institute has (had) developed 62 rice varieties for farmers, five most prominent varieties are (were) in circulation and are (were) doing very good (well).”

“NEMA, stakeholders meets over displaced persons” You can readily identify the boyish slip-up.

“With the LG polls now fixed for next week Tuesday….” Either next Tuesday or Tuesday, next week Lastly from DAILY TRUST: “Replicate your performance to (in) your constituents (constituencies)” “Security at airports: Police deploys (sic) sniffer dogs at (in) NnamdiAzikiwe International Airport, 5 others” (AIT News) From DAILY TRUST we move to THISDAY of July 12: “Absence of interpreter stalls trial of Portuguese woman charged for (with) drug trafficking” “Thumb (Thumbs) up for Nigerian refs in Mali” “Obasanjo :Amaechi’s k-leg (knocked leg) has been straightened” The following five solecisms are from DAILY INDEPENDENT of July 12: “DHQ assures of continued offensive” Who did it assure?

“Battle for soul of Ecobank intensifies” So the battle intensifies itself?

“Harnessing potentials of local software industry in Nigeria” ‘Potential’ is uncountable, but we have ‘potentialities’, “Tackling voters apathy in Nigeria” This way: voter apathy SATURDAY INDEPENDENT of July 9 disseminated all manner of school-boy mistakes right from the front page: “Fear has grip (gripped) notable politicians in Ebonyi State following findings by….” Most of the ensuing blunders were caused by sheer carelessness and loose thinking as the computer system has an in-built mechanism that detects most of the spelling errors contained herein.

BY

ewabara@yahoo.com, 08055001948

“The discovery was made when the DSS arrested some kidnappers in the state alleged to be the brain (brains) behind high profile (highprofile) kidnapping in the state.”

“The SSS in the state said on Friday that it has (had) arrested….” “…motorists were made to watch a bizzare (bizarre) spectacle, (needless comma) as four policemen beat a man gave (who gave) his name as…to a state of stupour (stupor).”

“The policemen, who drove to the scene in a patrol van with registration number KJA284AX, threw caution the winds (sic) (threw caution to the winds).”

“Federal University Lafia, (otiose punctuation) matriculates 380 students” Would it have matriculated traders? Just yank off the last word in the extract!

“Community sends SOS toAmosun,Ambode over harrassment” Spell-check: harassment, but embarrassment.

“When Fayemi’s wife rescued woman abandoned with tripplet (triplet)” Still on SATURDAY INDEPENDENT under focus: “…Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has already served the people creditably well…”

This is an over-kill: use either ‘creditably’ or ‘well’.

Both cannot co-function in the same environment.

“AdewaleAyuba is one musician (music/ musical) act who has been around for years. “ “My husband usually ask (asks) me to abort my pregnancy, woman tells court” From SATURDAY INDEPENDENT, a voice of your own: “Movie directors threaten sanction on (against) actress” Next on focus is DAILY SUN of July 12: “They buy at N159 and sell at N167, the CBN has (had) addressed last year when….”

“But what the banks decided to do is (was) to even stop selling.”

“Middle aged (Middle-aged) man commits suicide in Jos…Police tries (try) to uncover his identity” “IITAcreates 40,000 jobs under cassava to ethanol (cassava-to-ethanol) project” “Edo: Court remands killer cop (killer-cop)…”

“CBN said money is (was) missing from federation (the federation) account.”

INTERVIEW Pushing Economic Integration through Diplomatic Channels to buy from Nigeria. There was a stand by the National Agency for Foods and Drugs Administration and Control, NAFDAC to assure of certification and stringent controls of edibles from Nigeria.

The banking sector was not left out as Guaranty Trust Bank, United Bank for Africa and Diamond Bank had their stands though funds transfer and an accessibility of funds through the ATM was yet to work.

The stand on Nigerian literature was mounted by Mrs. Chinyere Obi-Obasi who displayed books in English Language which are not common in Cote D’Ivoire because they are French speaking nation.

She insisted that Nigeria was a force to reckon with in the literary world which strengthened her resolve to showcase Nigerian literature which she adjudged highly partronised in the exhibition as she sold out most of the books she exhibited especially Chimnda Adichie and Chinua Achebe series. Children books were also in high demand as English speakers in the country had been looking for without access to them. There are 11 Nigerian schools in the country. “Nigeria is known world over for literature and it would have been an error of omission not to showcase it as our strength”, the author and public presenter said.

Other companies that exhibited include Dangote group of companies which displayed their cement and other products.

President, Socio-cultural Integrations of African Youths Organisation SCIAYO, that organised the exhibition, Ejarkaminor Ricolins Sylvester, a Nigerian based in Cote D’Ivoire said over 40 companies exhibited at the show and out of the lot, almost 90 per cent were Nigerian companies while the rest were those who export to Nigeria.

He spoke of his shuttles between Nigeria and Abidjan to organise and ensure that the event held having suffered numerous failures in the past. Narrating his experience, he said, “Organising this was quite frustrating. I visited Nigeria more than 24 times and went to Nigerian Promotion Council, Nigerian Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, NACCIMA and several states in Nigeria to be part of the event. I went to Kano, Lagos, Abuja and Onitsha to meet people but in the end, most of the government agencies did not respond while some tried to frustrate the effort. I could not believe that people could work against such effort”, he lamented He said there were claims and counter claims by some people that they were to be the ones to host it than NGO be allowed to do so, adding that the event only held becauset he Ambassador gave him the support he needed as others including the Chamber of Commerce he hoped to work with drew blank. He however enthused that, “We have broken the jinx. It is a step forward and it has generated a lot of interest in Nigerian goods and companies. Our prayer is for it to be sustained”.

Nigerian drinks were the only made in Africa drinks the people were exposed to as they confessed that their drinks came from their colonial masters and cost almost three times what the products in Nigeria.

That aspect was also appreciated by them especially with the NAFDAC offiicials on hand to give credence to their quality and safety. Movement through land borders was not left out as Young Shall Grow which moves people and goods through land borders to several West African countries and also had their stand at the exhibition.

Remi Phillip Ejike Nwokehkeh manages the company from Cote D’Ivoire but lamented that while they had smooth rides through other countries, security checkpoints within Nigeria posed worse problems for them as extortion was too rampart. “Sometimes we have to make the passengers to contribute some amount to give to the security people at checkpoints to avoid delaying us. Those who leave Nigeria for other West African countries and on returning to their country are extorted like that? It is not like that in other countries. What we do is to provide security which we change when we get to another country till we get to Nigeria and our services are linking the countries though the free movement has not been fully embraced, it is due to individuals at check points not the countries invoolved”, he lamented. He said the mutiplicity of check points were only too apparent in Nigeria and urged the government to adddress it. New routes Nwokekeh and Chidi Okoroji said they were opening with new vehicles changed regularly were Liberia, Senegal, Bukinafasso and Mali while they had started plying Cameroun from Cotonou.

MUDi, a known fashion house displayed Nigerian wears which were well accepted though one of the officials said they had to review prices downwards to attract more patronage while entering into the Ivorien market. Food products like Erisco Bonpet with their canned and packgaged tomamto products and other Nigerian cuisine were also prominent at the exhibition which witnessed an interface between the media as well as Nollywood with their film industry.

Uzzi concepts by Uzzi Usman spoke on working with them to expand their film

industry. Arik was the only Nigerian airline at the exhibition, Health products and drinks that are made in Nigeria were on display. Mixta, a company that deals on houses also had their stand. Secretary General of Nigerians in the Diaispora in Cote D’Ivoire, Alhaji Ashiru Ashiru Abdullahi said of the effort that it was a giant step in the right direction which had given them an opportunity to improve more in the future. He however thought that more consultation should be made when next such a programme was in the works.

To him, it was the Nigerian community in the country that knew where to mobilise people from, adding that many goods that could remain unsold would have been sold out if they were involved and let the right people know about the programme. Interactive sessions where the media interfaced with a promise of more collaboration, the banking sector also met on how to ease remittances while producers brainstormed on how to set up shops and services which agreements were even on the need to work more closely together.Shops too numerous to mention included electronics, especially smart phone sellers, car parts, perfumes, beauty care products and the hotel industry.

At the closing ceremony, it was encomiums from ECOWAS and participants who prayed he effort would be sustained.

Captions: Pix 1: Ambassador of Nigeria to Cote D’Ivoire, Ifeoma Chinwuba; Pix 2;President, Socio Cultural Integrations of African Youths Organisation SCIAYO, that organised the exhibition, Ejarkaminor Ricolins Sylvester; Pix 3 : Ambassador Chinwuba; Pix 4: Chinwuba with some exhibitors at the venue; Pix 5, 6 and 7 are stands at the exhibition.

52

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

POLITY

Telemundo,DiscoveryFamilyKickOffNewSeriesonGOtv

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Otv has dedicated the month of September to television series buffs.

Starting Friday 2 September at 7:10pm, World’s Funniest will air on Discovery Family. This new hilarious, one-hour series is inspired by the hit YouTube channel - a compilation of videos showing funny pranks and comical fails from around the globe,

including everything from dogs cocking legs on brides, to kid’s cows riding in the back of cars.

Each week, a panel of celebrities and comedians will analyse the videos that have exploded across the internet, with the goal of awarding the funniest one with the “Golden Terry Award”. Telemundo premieres Woman of Steel on Monday, 5 September and from 18 September, E!

takes viewers inside the lives of Robert Kardashian and Blac Chyna with the brand new series, Rob & Chyna.

It’s also ‘Back to School’ season and to make breakfast and getting ready for school more exciting, Disney Junior is introducing a Bitesize Breakfast Block, morning shorts of some kiddies’ favourite shows. The Bitesize Breakfast Block, which kicks off on 5 September at 6:30am,

will feature splits of Goldie & Bear, PJ Masks, Jake and the Never Land Pirates, Doc McStuffins and Miles from Tomorrow.

There will also be Afternoon Adventures with Disney Junior featuring The Adventures of the Disney Fairies, Miles from Tomorrow, Sofia the First, Jake and the Never Land Pirates, The Lion Guard and Goldie & Bear, starting 5 September at 1:20pm.

Caribbean/African Investment Conference Now In October

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he Caribbean/African Chamber of investment in collaboration with The Honorary Consulate of Island State of Saint Vincent & the Grenadines in the Federal Republic of Nigeria have rescheduled their propose conference from September to October. The conference is expected to take place in Saint Vincent, in the Caribbean.

Reverend Innocent Peace, a renowned Nollywood Filmmaker who is also the media/tourism consultant to both the consulate of St. Vincent and the Caribbean/ Africa chamber of investments said that the conference is expected to focus on, micro business and finance, information

technology, import and export, agriculture, agro processing, root crops, rum, fishing amongst others as distinguished speakers are drawn from different squares of life including the business world,, legal ECOWAS amongst others.

Peace urged states government, ministries, the private individual, GSM companies and corporate organizations to take advantage of the huge potentials the conference will offer by sending representatives.

He stated further that the conference would also promote trade relations and create business opportunities and possible investment potentials between the Caribbean Islands and West Africa.

PHOTO NEWS L-R: The Secretary, Light Bearers Wesley Cathedral Olowogbowo, Bro Prince Olusegun Akitoye with the Baba Ijo, United African Methodist Evangelical Church, Abule-Ijesha, Yaba, Lagos, Otunba (Mrs.) Josephine Diya, her husband, Lt. Gen Oladipo Diya (rtd) his wife, Folashade and the President, Light Bearers, Wesley Cathedral Olowogbowo, Lagos, Bro Tola Noibi at the presentation of a portrait to Diya as the society’s grand patron at Diya church at Abule Ijesha, Yaba, Lagos...recently

L-R: Chief Finance Officer, Siemens Nigeria Ltd. Funmi Makinde; CEO, Nigeria Economic Summit, Mr. Laoye Jaiyeola; and Chief Africa, United Nations Global Concept, Olajobi Makinwa, at a workshop on anti-corruption Collective Action , held in Lagos...recently Photo: Sunday Adigun

L-R: Regional Director, West Africa, Africa Re Insurance, Mr. Sory Diomande; Deputy Managing Director/COO, Mr Ken Aghoghovbia; and Director of Finance, Seydu Kone, at Africa Re’s Insurance awareness campaign press conference in Lagos... recently Photo: Sunday Adigun

L-R: General Manager, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr. Braimoh Ademuyiwa; Chief Executive Officer, LASTMA, Mr. Chris Olakpe; Regional Manager, ARM Pensions, Mr. Gbenga Dada; and Team leader, ARM Pensions, Toyin Omoyajowo, during the donation of traffic control stands to LASTMA by ARM Pensions in Lagos... recently

L-R: Director, Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Federal Ministry of Environment, Abdulkazeem Bayero; Director, Human Resources Management and representative of Minister of Environment, Mrs. Lauren Braide; Project Manager, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), Ms. Ozunimi Iti and the National Programme Officer, UNIDO Nigeria. Dr. Chuma Ezedinma, during a stakeholders workshop for the preparation of the stage 11 of the hydro-chlorofluorocarbon phase out management plan for the refrigeration sector, in Nigeria, in Lagos…recently Photo: Kola Olasupo

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER ˾ ͹͸˜ ͺ͸͹ʹ

53

NEWS

In Brief

'Chibok Girlsí Matter is a Scam'

TheWomenWingof theChristianCouncil of Nigeria(WOWICCN),yesterday saidtheissuesurroundingthekidnapofmorethan200girlsfromChibok,Borno Stateremainedabigscam.Theincidentwhichoccurredonthenightof14ñ 15April 2014,involvedabout276femalestudentswhowerereportedlykidnappedby theBokoHaramterroristgroupfromtheGovernmentSecondarySchoolinthe townofChibokinBornoState,Nigeria.Themattersofarhadbeenpoliticised,as thegroup,currentlychampioningthesafereleaseoftheabductedgirls,Bring BackOurGirls(BBOG),arenowclashingwithpro≠ PresidentMuhammaduBuhari protestersandsupportersofthefederalgovernmentwhentheyheldpeaceful rallyrecentlytopressurisethegovernmenttoexpediteactioninrescuingthegirls.

Auduí s Soní s Arrest, Prosecution Political

The AuduOyidiRoyalFamilyofOgbonicha,OfuLocalGovernment,Kogi State hasriseninsupportofMohammed,sonofthelatePrinceAbubakarAudu, All ProgressivesCongress(APC)candidateintheNovember21,2015governorship electionsintheStatewhowasarrestedandarraignedbeforetheChiefMagistrate CourtinLokojalastThursdayonsundrychargesamongwhicharearmedrobbery, conspiracyandattempted culpablehomicidedescribingthewholeepisodeas politicalpersecutionofthehighestorder.Inastatementsignedonbehalfofthe familybytheOregohAttahofIgalaland,theparamountrulerofOgbonicha,the familylamentedthemediafrenzythatattendedthearrestandarraignmentof theirsonontrumpedupchargesthatwerepoliticallymotivatedandaffirmed theirimplicitconfidenceinhisunimpeachableintegrity.

CAC 8th Anniversary

FOR SAFE R EOADS ON SALLAH...

L≠ R: The Deputy Corps Marshal, Motor Vehicle Administration, Charles Theophilus, Corps Marshal , FRSC ,Dr. Boboye Oyeyemi , As≠ sistant Corps Marshal Personnel,Godwin Ogagaogeneh And Bisi Kazeem, Head, Media Relations And Strategy, FRSC During a Press Conference on Eid≠ El≠ Kabir Celebration Patrol Operations at the FRSC Head Quarters, Abuja

TChrist Apostolic Church, aka Gate of Heaven, Idafa, Ikorodu, will tomorrow celebrateits8thanniversaryandthanksgivingservicesatitschurchauditorium, No.12,FemiAkinpeluStreet,Idafa≠ Maya,Ikorodu,Lagos by10am. According to a statement signed by Chairman, Media and Publicity of the anniversary celebration, Mr. Olusoji Daomi, the anniversary celebration with the theme ì The Covenant Keeping Godî shall be marked with a week≠ long soul≠ winning revival programmes between 5pm ñ 6pm September 5th≠ 10th, 2016, where miracles,signsandwondersshallmanifestundertheanointinghandsofPastorJ. A.GbolahanandotheranointedmenofGod.Thegrandfinaleoftheprogramme willbetheAnniversaryThanksgivingServiceonSundaySeptember11,2016.

9/11 Anniversary: US Challenges World to Rise against Terrorism ImplementationofChildRightsAct Alex Enumah in Abuja As the United States of America and the entire world mark the 15th anniversary of the gruesome murder of thousands of people in the U.S in a terror attack claimed by the Al Qaeda insurgents, the United States has called on all countries of the world to work together to defeat the evil of terrorism.

The U.S while noting that a lot of families around the globe had experienced pain and loss as a result of terrorism, appealed to the conscience of people to work tirelessly to promote dialogue, peace, and reconciliation in order to resolve the complex problems currently faced by the world.

The call was contained in a statement by the U.S embassy in Abuja.

“Sadly, tragic events throughout the world have shown the ongoing horrific impact of terrorism in Nigeria, Mali, Burkina Faso, France, Bangladesh, Turkey, and Belgium, among many other countries. Far too many families around the globe have experienced pain and loss as a result of terrorism. It is clear that we all must stand together and work to defeat this scourge”, the statement said.

While reliving the events of the September 11 attack, the U.S commended the heroic efforts of those who sacrificed their lives resisting terrorism, adding that they would

forever be remembered.

“This Sunday, September 11, marks the 15th anniversary of one of the most tragic days in the history of the United States.

On that fateful day, terrorists staged attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and were only prevented from completing another attack by the heroism of the passengers on United Flight 93. The images of that day are forever imprinted on our memories.

“The events of that day also revealed the character of ordinary American citizens who demonstrated their courage and willingness to sacrifice for their fellow men and women. Who can forget the first responders

who dashed into buildings on the verge of collapse, the service members who rescued the burned and injured in the Pentagon, or the passengers who fought to take control of their doomed plane over Pennsylvania?

“As we recall the events 15 years ago, let us renew our commitment to do all that we can, wherever we may be, to honor the victims of those attacks, as well as the others who have been harmed by terrorism in the years since September 11, 2001. We must defeat terrorists and all that they represent, and at the same time work tirelessly to promote dialogue, peace, and reconciliation in order to resolve the complex problems that we face in an interdependent world.

DespitethepassageoftheChildRightsbillintolawby24outof36statesofthe federation,incidencesofabusesofchildrenandyouthshavecontinuedtobeon theincrease,aChildRightsadvocacygroup,LinkingtheYouthsofNigeriathrough Exchange(LYNXNigeria)hassaid.Thegrouphasthereforeaskedstatesthat havesofarpassedthebilltocommenceitseffectiveimplementationinorder toprotectchildrenandyouthsfrompersistentabuses.Speakingattheclosing ceremonyofthetrainingcampandprojectlaunchoftheAflatounChildRights Cooperative Project in Enugu, Executive Director of LYNX NIGERIA, Nanre Mayegun, said there was a rise in abuses of children in the country, stressing thatitclearlysignpostedthatstatesthathavepassedtheacthavenoteffectively implementedit.

Oshodi Comprehensive School Anniversary

The Oshodi Comprehensive High School Alumni Association (OCHS Alumni) hasconcludedplanstoholditsfirstNationalReuniontomarkthe35yearsofits establishment.TheOCHSAlumniPresident,Mr.HamzatGaniyu,inastatement yesterday,saidthatthereunioncelebrationwiththetheme:"ManyPaths,One Spirit",willbeheldatWhiteHouseHall,besideBoladeGrammarSchool,Oshodi, Lagos.Ganiyustressedthat"thereunionisexpectedtobringtogethertheAlumni ofschoolfromallovertheworld.Theeventisbeingheldaspartofthe35than≠ niversary celebrations of the school". He stated that 10 distinguished former andcurrentmembersofstaffoftheschoolwillbehonouredwithawardsthat express the Alumni Associationí s appreciation for their service to the school andtheircontributionstothecommunityatlarge.

Sallah: IGP Orders AIGs, CPs to Deploy Officers to Praying

Kidnappers Abduct Unical Dean's UNILORINChristianUnion Son, Shoots Lecturer, Wife

Dele Ogbodo inAbuja

Bassey Inyang in Calabar

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Mr. Ibrahim Idris, has ordered all Assistant Inspectors General of Police in charge of Zonal Commands and all Commissioners of Police in the States to deploy adequate personnel to Eid-el-Kabir praying grounds, recreation Centres and public places.

He said, this has become expedient in order to ensure adequate security and to guarantee utmost protection of life and property during the celebration and the public holidays.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Force PPRO, Mr. Donald Awunah, on behalf of the IGP, in Abuja, added that the CPs should collaborate with sister security agencies for joint operations.

He said: "The Commissioners of Police, should cultivate intelligence, interface with community leaders to monitor the activities of undesirable elements in the society, who may take undue advantage of the public holidays

to cause mischief within and around the towns and cities.

"The Police mobile Force, Counter Terrorism Units, Explosive Ordinance Department and personnel and of criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department will also be deployed to all the locations mentioned above."

According to him, there is need to sustain Police surveillance to vulnerable points and other identifiable hot spots to prevent criminalities during the Sallah celebration and beyond.

He however said that the Police is confident that with effective operational strategies in place will guarantee a peaceful and hitch free Eid-El-Kabir celebration.

He however implores them to be vigilant and continue to support the Police to prevent crimes in their localities.

Idris said: "I wish to commend the dedication and commitment of officers in ensuring that security and peace prevail throughout the country despite the enormous challenges."

A student of the University of Calabar (Unical), has been kidnapped, while two other persons received gunshot wounds following the invasion of the institution’s staff quarters by kidnappers who also robbed their victims of valuable property.

The authorities of the university which made the disclosure of Friday said the kidnapped student, a son of the dean postgraduate school, was in the department of banking and finance.

A press statement issued by the university's information officer, Mr. Effiong Eyo, tagged, "Unical Dean of Graduate School's Son Kidnapped," read as follows: "A first year student of the department of Banking and Finance and son of the current Dean of Graduate School of the University of Calabar, Onyebuchi Okwueze has been reportedly kidnapped.

"Gunmen suspected to be kidnappers yesterday stormed the premises of the Dean, Professor Emeka Okwueze who was unavailable at the time of the attack, broke into his house and made away with

his Plasma television and his 24 year old son who was the only one at home.

"The gunmen who were said to have begun their operation at about 8.15pm also inflicted injuries on a lecturer in Physics department, Dr. Anthony George and his wife who were driving in and got caught up in the attack. While Dr. George was shot on his right hand, his wife sustained bullet injuries on the left knee. Both are however responding to treatment.

"Though they made unsuccessful attempts to gain entry into the stretch of houses accommodating staff within the row of buildings, the gunmen however smashed the mirror and punctured the front tyre of a Mercedes Benz car belonging to a Professor in the College of Medical Sciences, Prof Chucks Ejezie."

Continuing, the release stated that "It will be recalled that in the month of May this year, kidnappers invaded the same wing of buildings and took away with them the son of a Deputy Registrar, Mr. Ekpenyong Iniama, the wife and daughter of Prof Wilfred Ndifon of the College of Medical Sciences, both were later released.

The University of Ilorin Christian Union (UCU) will celebrate its 40 years of existence from November 25 to November27, 2016. Activities lined up for three≠ dayeventwillholdatUCUWorshipCentre,locatedinsidetheChapelof the Light facility on the main campus of University of Ilorin, Kwara State.The AnniversaryPlanningCommitteeChairman,GeorgeGbengaOsobaannounced that the theme for the 40th anniversary was ì Behold, the Days are Coming!î He said a special highlight of the celebration was the launch of the book, ì The Chroniclesî ,ahistoricalperspectiveofUCU40yearsí journey.Speakersexpected attheanniversaryincludeRev.YinkaLaoye,SeniorPastorofDominionChristian Centre; Rev (Prof.)Wale Okunuga, President ofWord Increase Ministries Inc.; Mrs Biola Opatayo, Founding President of the University of Ilorin Christian Union Alumni Fellowship (UCUAF); and Mr. Gbenga Okusolubo, former UCU ExecutiveCommitteemember.

NineYears on theThrone

ChildrenofElegbeofEgbehaveannouncedprogrammeforthecelebrationof theirfatherí snineyearsascendancetothethrone.AccordingtoPrinceOlorunfemi Akeemwhospokeforthefamily,thecelebrationwouldholdatthepalace.î With specialgratitudetoalmightyAllah,I,princeElegbe,PrinceOlorunfemiAkeem wish to thank almighty Allah and congratulate my humble dad, Oba Ashimiu Oseni (Dada Ota, kudaki abalufon 1, the Elegbe of egbe kingdom on his nine years anniversary coming up onTuesday, September 13, 2016nat the palace.

Wewishourfathergoodhealth,longlifeandmanyfruitfulyearstocomeî ,hesaid.

Okewumií s OneYear Remembrance

Familymembers,friends and business associates of Mrs.VictoriaOyetunde Okewumiwill,ontoday,markthefirstanniversaryofherdeath.Mrs.Okewumi, aLagosbusinesswoman,diedonSeptember9,2015.NeeBalogun,issurvived byherhusband,ElderAmosOluboyeOkewumi,andsix childrenñ ApostolicMotherYemisiAkinadewo,Mrs.Tayo Ogoigbe,Mrs.TosinAdeoti,Mr.DamilolaOkewumi,Miss AdedoyinOkewumiandMissBusolaOkewumi.Amemo≠ rial service will hold at Christ Pentecostal Evangelical Mission,Ijegun,Lagoswhile'CelebrationofLife'Party holdsatElderOkewumi'sresidence,OluOkewumiStreet, Ijegun,Lagos.Thanksgivingservicewillholdtomorrow.

54

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

nEwS

Buhari to Lead Nigeria’s Delegation Nigeria Seeks Collaboration among African Ports to UN General Assembly John Iwori

Alex Enumah in Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari will lead the federal government’s delegation to the 71st session of the United Nations General Assembly, which begins on tomorrow.

Buhari will join other world leaders to address issues of global importance, as well as those peculiar to their different countries and regions.

According to the Presidency, the event is expected to provide President Buhari an opportunity to put into proper perspective some issues about his administration, which have been largely misconstrued, particularly as regards to human rights.

Only recently, Senator Tom Marino of the United States Congress wrote a letter to the US Secretary of State, John Kerry, asking the US government to withhold security assistance to Nigeria until President Buhari demonstrated what he described as a “commitment to inclusive government and the most basic tenets of democracy: freedom to assemble and freedom of speech.”

Minister of foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, while briefing journalist in Abuja on the UNGA 71 event, stated that the occasion would afford President Buhari an opportunity to let the world know that his administration has high regards for human rights.

“There is need to tell our own story and tell it persuasively too to get support from the world. We are not a sick patient looking for help.

Nigeria is a power house seeking opportunity to play a greater role in global affairs,” he said.

Reacting to the alleged human right abuse by the Buhari administration, the minister said: “It would be an opportunity to put the record straight.

Government does not interfere with the judiciary; neither does it interfere with the activities of the EFCC and other investigative bodies.”

Onyeama added that the administration had also made it a point of duty for security personnel,

particularly those in battle field to uphold the tenets of human rights.

He disclosed that Nigeria would also seize the opportunity to canvass support for her candidates in various UN organisations, such as the Human Right Council and the International Civil Aviation, which is currently occupied by a Nigerian.

“It is important that Nigeria is involved in such because there are a lot of benefits for the country in it.

Nigeria had already been elected into the civil aviation body and would be seeking re-election. Also, we are hoping to get a seat at the human rights council election coming towards the end of this year,” he said.

Nigeria has called for collaboration among African ports to ensure that the continent could attain the desired changes in the maritime industry.

Minister of Transportation, Hon Rotimi Amaechi who spoke in Accra, Ghana for the Nigerian government during Ghana at two days African Ports Evolution Workshop and Exhibition, West African Edition, stated that collaboration and synergy rather than cut throat rivalry would enable African countries to run their ports in line with international standards and practices as it was obtainable in the ports situated in the developed world.

He argued that technology was critical in the maritime industry to facilitate information sharing among stakeholders, even as she called on various port authorities to introduce competitiveness in the industry to enhance effective trade facilitation across the African continent.

The event was designed to provide West African government, terminal operators, port authorities and service providers up to date information on port expansion and development plans in West Africa Sub-Region.

It was also to provide critical insight into doing business in the region’s ports as well as highlighting the opportunities from in the oil and gas sectors.

Amaechi who was the head of the Nigerian delegation to the event which attracted participants from other African countries and beyond stated that the West African Sub-Region need integration through connectivity of ports to promote economic development in the various countries.

He called on participants to deliberate on the improvement on port development to facilitate effective trade relations.

“Governments on the subregion are waiting for the outcome of the forum as a road map to development the maritime industry,” he said.

We’re not Involved in Recruitment Racketeering, Says ENSUBEB Ujun Ifedioranma

INTERFACING WITH CUSTOMERS...

L-R: Managing Director Old Mutual Nigeria General Insurance Company, Rachel Voke Emenike; Deputy Managing Director Ecobank, Anthony Okpanachi; Group CEO, Old Mutual West Africa, Zomunoda Chizura, and Deputy Managing Director, Corporate Bank, Ecobank Plc, Foluke Aboderin at the Ecobank-Old Mutual Nigeria Customer Forum held at the Wheatbaker Hotel, Ikoyi, Lagos, yesterday SUNDAY ADIGUN

Military Destroys Illegal Refineries, Kidnappers Camps in Bayelsa, Imo States Senator Iroegbu in Abuja

The Nigerian military has destroyed illegal refineries as well as kidnapper’s camps in Bayelsa, Rivers and Imo States in the Niger Delta region of the country.

The Director of Army Public Relations (DAPR), Col. Sani Usman, in a statement yesterday, said the troops of 2 Brigade Nigerian Army conducting field training exercise code named "Operation Crocodile Smile" have within the last 48 hours discovered and destroyed 74 illegal refineries.

Usman said the troops also destroyed quite a number militants and kidnappers camps in various parts of Rivers and Bayelsa States using swan buggy and other specialists equipment.

He said the troops of Sub-Sector Bravo had on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 in response to a tip off on the presence of suspected kidnappers at Akupoku community, carried out a raid at the location.

He however, stated that no arrest was made as the kidnappers have fled the area.

The DAPR said the team also raided Ke community, at the verge of the Atlantic ocean where they discovered and destroyed an illegal refinery.

"The troops recovered and destroyed three large cooking pots and 20 tanks filled with illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO)," he stated.

Similarly, Usman said, another set of troops also discovered and destroyed another illegal crude oil

refinery at Bile. Items recovered and destroyed include 12 large refining cooking pots.

He said: "The troops exercising along Abonnema axis were also informed of the presence of suspected kidnappers at Abakrikri Fishing Pot, they swung into action and carried out cordon and search operation, however, no contact or arrest was made.

"The troops of 130 Battalion also raided suspected kidnappers camp at Awukiri. Although no contact was made, the troops recovered an AK-47 rifle empty magazine, six face masks, a machete and several empty shells of expended ammunitions.

The troops destroyed the camp.

The troops have also intensified search for the kidnappers nests and other criminal elements camp for

clearance."

"The Medical unit of 2 Brigade has been dispensing free medical service at Twon Brass in Bayelsa State. The troops would continue their field training exercise, while the humanitarian assistance will continue with provision of educational materials and free medical assistance to the host communities this Friday," he added.

In a related development, Usman stated that the troops of 34 Field Artillery Brigade also involved in Operation Crocodile Smile conducted raid on two major kidnappers camps belonging to “De-Well” and “DeGbam” cultists groups in Umoubi and Umudike forests, both in Ohaji Egbema Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State on Thursday, September 8, 2016.

The Enugu State Universal Basic Education Board (ENSUBEB) has denied media reports that its officials collected gratifications from applicants before offering them jobs in the ongoing recruitment of teachers in the state.

It therefore called on those peddling such rumours to come up with evidence to justify their claims or shut up.

Reacting to the development, ENSUBEB Executive Chairman, Chief Ikeje Asogwa in a statement described the allegations as untrue and mischievous, saying that “the board had uncovered the antics of faceless fraudsters who claimed to be staff and agents of ENSUBEB to defraud innocent citizens under the guise of shortlisting them for employment”.

Chief Asogwa who frowned at the allegations, noted that they came at the time Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s administration had initiated far-reaching reforms in the board aimed at improving the standard of education in the primary schools of the state.

The ENSUBEB Chairman said that contrary to the said

Rio Paralympics: Team Nigeria Wins First Gold

ECOWAS, Other RECs Urged to Review Peacekeeping Approach

Chinenye Nduka

Chineme Okafor in Abuja

Team Nigeria has won its first gold medal from the ongoing 2016 Paralympics in Rio. Roland Ezuruike provided the golden moment, winning the 54Kg event in astonishing manner.

Ezuruike set three Paralympics records in his run to win the top prize.

Earlier in the day Latifat Tijani won silver medal for Nigeria. She lifted 106kg in the 45kg category to place second behind China’s Dandan Hu. The physically challenged athletes have over the years done Nigeria proud despite the second class

Member countries of the Economic Community of West African Countries (ECOWAS) and other African regional economic communities (REC) have been urged to review the approaches they adopt in keeping their communities free from war and conflicts.

ECOWAS, according to the Nordic Africa Institute (NAI), would need to device sustainable means of stimulating the economic growth achieved by its members through proactive peacekeeping

approaches, one which ensures that all members of the society are included in peace building processes.

The Director of NAI, Iina Soiri, stated this at a recent two-day policy dialogue on REC in Africa it convened in partnership with Nigeria’s Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) in Abuja.

Soiri said researches conducted by the institute and its partners have shown that RECs in Africa are increasingly becoming centres for peacekeeping. She noted such development puts pressure on the

economic development of African countries.

She explained the development suggests that African REC would have to now review their security architecture and concentrate more on peacebuilding. According to her, the current peacekeeping approaches of African countries contributed to the poor economic showings of their economies.

“Our main task is to conduct research on Africa’s economic, social and political development and also ensure partnership between academics in Africa and the Nordic

countries.

“We are here today trying to discuss the roles of regional economic communities in peace keeping and peace operations.

We have done a lot of research on Africa’s security architecture and how the African Union should develop its own peace operations.

“We have discussed why economic communities have now suddenly become communities for peace and what pressure that poses today in terms of institutional, finance and governance issues,” Soiri said.

media reports, no applicant had been offered employment as the recruitment exercise was on-going.

He disclosed that the board being mindful of such mischievous allegations had announced in the media that “applicants should not pay money throughout the course of this recruitment exercise.”

The Chairman stated that when the bribery allegations came up, the board investigated them to ascertain their veracity and later discovered that the faceless fraudsters were using a particular bank account to receive money from unsuspecting victims.

He said that his office had officially reported the case to the Divisional Police Officer, Independence layout, Enugu, via a letter dated September 5, 2016 for necessary action.

The board chairman, while reaffirming the commitment of the present administration in the state to the core values of discipline, merit, transparency and accountability, urged the public to discountenance the said publications as no evidence of bribery scam by officials of the board has been recorded.

treatment they usually receive.

Nigeria made its Paralympics debut in Barcelona where she won three gold medals to finish 35th in the medal table.

While the heroics of Atlanta 96 is often celebrated, the Paralympics Team did even better than the Olympians, winning three gold, two silver and three bronze medals.

The turn of the century at Sydney 2000 is very remarkable in the Nigeria Paralympics history. Team Nigeria had their most successful outing; winning seven gold, one silver and five bronze medals. This feat saw them finishing 22nd in the overall medals table.

THISDAY, THE SATURDAY NEWSPAPER • SEPTEMBER 10, 2016

55

nEwSXTRA

FG Inaugurates Project Committee for Concession of Lagos, Abuja, Kano, PH Airports Dele Ogbodo in Abuja

The Minister of State for Aviation, Mr. Hadi Sirika, yesterday inaugurated the project steering committee for the concession of the Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Port Harcourt international airports.

The members of the committee include, the Solicitor General of the federation and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Taiwo Abidogun, the Director General, Infrastructure Concession and Regulatory Commission (ICRC), Mr. Benjamin Dikko, representatives from the Ministries of Finance, Budget Planning and Aviation.

While inaugurating the members in Abuja, Sirika, said the concession would be driven on Public Private Partnership (PPP), because government did not have

the money to finance the project from start to finish.

According to him, the desire for the PPP strategy in the concession was necessitated by the situation in which the country found itself, adding that economically, government could not afford public spending on infrastructure.

Sirika said: "The amount of money required is astronomical and the challenge to get the money is herculean, so we have to look elsewhere as that is the global best practice in the activity of this nature."

The minister however explained that there was a public misconception between concession and privatisation, adding that component of PPP which was the public which made makes the difference between privatisation and concessioning.

He said: "One of the five unions expressed concern that there would be job losses. I think their argument does not hold water as they have not done their research well. Also, they are mistaking concession for privatisation and I also think that they had not come for consultation in the ministry.

"It is important for the public to know that in concession, the assets remain with the people, which is the Nigerian public."

On why concession is the way to go in the sector, he said: "Our infrastructure in aviation and in transportation are dilapidated, they are not ideal, they don't attract customers, they don't show our nation to be in tandem with global happenings.

"For that reason, we believe that we should concession our

airports and establish a national carrier to feed those airports as a hub, establish a maintenance and an overhaul centre to build companies that will service and maintain the national carrier and other participants in the sector."

The terms of reference, according to him include: approve technical, financial and legal framework for a successful execution of the concession, provide guidelines and policy direction relating to PPP on concession and to facilitate necessary permits, clearance in the processing of PPP matters.

He assured: "Once we start, within 24 months we should be able to have a new Lagos, Port Harcourt, Abuja and Kano airports, which will create an opportunity that in establishing the national carrier, it will create more jobs and facilitate trade and commerce."

LINC, IPMAN Sign MoU to Enhance Petroleum Products Availability Bennett Oghifo

The Federal Government’s partial deregulation of the downstream oil and gas subsector received a boost, recently, when two major players in the industry signed a memorandum of understanding to forge a strategic partnership that will enhance the benefits of the exercise, especially in the area of availability of refined products.

LINC Nigeria Limited (LINC) and the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) signed the MoU in Abuja, following months of negotiations and feasibility assessment of the venture aimed at seamless distribution of petroleum products to all the nooks and crannies of Nigeria.

LINC Nigeria Ltd is a fully indigenous corporate organisation with interest in the oil and gas and other sectors of the economy.

Giving insight into the partnership, the Chief Executive Officer of LINC Nigeria, Mr. Pat. Ifeanyi Oramah, explained that by the agreement, his company would provide tank farm facilities for the warehousing of the petroleum

products procured by independent petroleum marketers before distribution.

The products usually procured

by IPMAN from the Nigeria NATIONAL Petroleum Corporation’s (NNPC’s) subsidiaries – including the Petroleum Product Marketing Company limited (PPMC) and Petroleum Products Pricing Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) and other international sources – will be stored in the tank farms from where they will be trucked to the filling stations for dispensing.

Oramah disclosed that this collaboration would make for easy availability of the products in the far north, south-east and south-south flanks of the country with tremendous impact on the pump prices of the products at the fuel stations.

“In the specific situation where products allocation is from the Port Harcourt refinery depot, such products shall be warehoused in LINC’s Calabar tank farm for storage,” Oramah stressed, adding that in the event that LINC’s tank farm is unable to take all the products sourced by IPMAM, other tank farms could be engaged for storage.

Hajj 2016: Nigerian Embassy Commended Jameelah Sanda in Makkah Saudi Arabia Ahead of the pilgrimage rites that begin today in Makkah, the Consulate General of Nigeria and Charge d'affair in Saudi Arabia have praised the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) for the number of innovations brought into the 2016 Hajj administration.

The envoys gave the commendation at the stakeholders Pre Arafat meeting held at Badar Hall, Makkah, Saudi L-R Chairman/MD Boff and Company Insurance Brokers, Babajide Olatunde-Agbeja; 2016 JCI President, Pascal Dike; former Prime Minister of Senegal, Arabia. In their assessments, the Dr. Aminata Toure; JCI Secretary General, Arrey Obenson, at JCI Global Partnership Summit held at the United Nations HQ in New York introduction of feeding of pilgrims recently in Makkah, Medina Mina and Arafat has ensured marked improvement in the welfare of pilgrims as well as the transportation system.

According to them, the idea of feeding the pilgrims and housing them in the highbrow Markaziya Senator Iroegbu in Abuja sources said were offences Okon Bassey in Uyo will be fast and the cost of doing area in Madina has not only reduce the incidences of illness but also the contrary to service discipline. business will be low.

While the fate of former “You can easily work to the next stress of walking long distances to The Nigerian military Special The Central Bank of Nigeria Court-Martial (SCM) has in Commandant of 68 Military (CBN) has advised state govern- street where there is BoI, meet the the holy mosque in Medina.

They however called for more its judgement demoted the Hospital, Lagos has been ments without the Bank of Industry manager, present your proposal former Commandant, 68 decided, that of Sani is yet (BoI) to facilitate the establishment and get considered instead of may collaborative efforts between the state Military Hospital, Yaba, Lagos, to be ruled on by the SCM. of Bank of Industry in other to be going to Calabar or any other boards and the commission to ensure At the inaugural sitting in speed up industrialisation and nearer states, that is one of the big that pilgrims abide strictly to Saudi Major-General Patrick Falola to regulations. Speaking in the same the rank of Brigadier General, May, the President of the Court, economic development across gains of having B0I. AVM Gbum had noted that the the country.

“Another gain is that, the speed vein the Etsu Nupe and Leader of over acts of indiscipline.

The President of the Court, senior officers would be tried The Assistant Director, Develop- of doing business, especially those the delegation, Alhaji Muhammad Air Vice Marshal (AVM) pursuant to a convening order ment Finance Department of CBN, who are producing raw materials Yahaya Abubakar, said NAHCON's James Gbum, delivered the emanating from the office of the Abuja, Mr. Babatunde Ogunleye will quickly get their raw materials feats need to be applauded as it had ensured continued success of Hajj judgement yesterday at the COAS, saying that the powers made the call Tuesday in Uyo, evacuated and get paid.

Mogadishu Cantonment, in of the court were derived from Akwa Ibom State while fielding “The bank here will get funded performance in the country since Abuja, after more than five the Armed Forces Act. because payment will get to all these its creation. questions from newsmen.

In a related development the He listed other members of hours of proceedings.

He argued that the BoI with banks, all these things will amount Gbum who is also the the Special Court Martial as the primary mandate to finance to improve and increase standard Nigerian Consulate has revealed Chief of Policy and Plans Air Vice Marshal Iya Abdullahi, the processing of raw materials of living for citizen and government that the seized wristband by the (COPP) Nigerian Air Force who is the Chief of Training and industrialisation of the nation will make money quietly through Saudi Arabian government would (NAF) Headquarters, said and Operations at NAF Head- was better positioned to help the tax revenue because if business soon be released as the embassy that the ruling was subject quarters; Rear Admiral Peter Small-Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and commerce move everybody was in advance talk with the host government that will ensure the release to approval of the Nigerian Agba, a former Chief of Naval in the country to engage the citizens. is happy.” he added.

Transformation, Surgeon Rear Military Council.

Ogunleye maintained that of the wrist band to the states for Ogunleye expressed dismay According to him, the Admiral Edwin Elechukwu and that in some states without the the organised private sector and eventual distribution to the Hajjis.

Earlier in his welcome address, demoted senior officer could the Judge Advocate, Colonel establishment of the BoI, citizens associations were the right body continue with his current rank Saeed Musa. were compelled to go extra miles to partner with government to the Chairman/CEO of NAHCON, Navy Captain Chris Anush- like the nearest state to present ensure the BoI was established Abdullahi Muhammad Mukhtar, said pending when the judgement is the 2016 Hajj was eventful coming on ratified by the Army Council. iem is the Defence Counsel for proposal or seek assistance from in their state.

The Chief of Army Staff Major-General Ibrahim Sani, the bank on the finance of projects.

The sensitisation workshop being the heel of the unfortunate incident (COAS), Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai while retired Wing Commander The Assistant Director who was organised in all the states of the that happened during last year's hajj.

While recounting the achievements in May approved the trial of Enokela is the defence counsel in the state for a public enlighten- federation is to counsel members Falola and former Chief of for Major General Falola. ment of the residents of Akwa Ibom of public on the activities of the recorded by the management in Army Transformation and In- Lieutenant Colonel Ukpe Ukpe State on the activities of the CBN CBN, what they have put in place the preparation for the 2016 Hajj , novation Centre, Major-General is the prosecution witness for declared that, if there was BoI in a some published but people do not the NAHCON boss called on the officials of the State pilgrims welfare Ibrahim Sani, for what military the Nigerian Army. state “the speed of doing business know or aware.

ALL FOR HUMANITY...

Military Demotes MajorGeneral Falola Over Indiscipline

Central Bank Urges States to Set up Bank of Industry

boards to ensured that their pilgrims adhered strictly to the Saudi rules and regulation to forestall any unfortunate incident during the pilgrimage.

CHANGE OF NAME I formally known as ORUMOBIRI PERE GLORIA, wishes to now be known and addressed as ORUMOBIRI PERE NAOMI. The general public should take note.

I formally known as IBIDOKUN ADEWALE, now wishes to be known and addressed as AGBELUSI ADEWALE. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should take note.

I formally known as BAMGBOLA-ADEYI SHERI ABIOLA, now wishes to be known and addressed as BAMGBOLA SHERI. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I, formerly known as VICTOR ADIM IBRAHIM , now wishes to be known and addressed as VICTOR ABDULLAZEEZ IBRAHIM. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should take note.

I, formerly known as MADUNAGU CHIZOBA, now wishes to be known and addressed as MADUNAGU LINDA. All former documents remain valid. The general public should take note.

I, formerly known as EMMANUEL SNOW NWEKE, now wishes to be known and addressed as EMMANUEL SNOW MARCEL . All former documents remain valid.

The general public should take note.

I, formerly known as HARUNA ABUBAKAR, now wishes to be known and addressed as HARUNA ABUBAKAR GARBA. All former documents remain valid.

The general public should take note.

TR

Saturday, September 10, 2016

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MISSILE Senator Sani to FG

“If you happen to be in a position of power, inasmuch as you want to bring reforms that are painful, you have to understand the need for you to carry the people along because if you keep on bringing reforms and continue to unleash hardship on the people, you may as well say there is a paradise but people need to be alive to reach that paradise. If you keep reforming and reforming and the people are suffering and dying, you may reach the Promised Land alone because by that time everyone has died. Of what use would that be?”

– Senator Shehu Sani, warning the Federal Government to put in place short-term measures to cushion the effect of the current economic crisis.

PENDULUM Dele Momodu

dele.momodu@thisdaylive.com

Unveiling President Buhari’s Mindset

F

ellow Nigerians, I doubt if there is anyone who does not see and feel President Muhammadu Buhari is a complex character. As a matter of fact, that is the veritable hallmark of his persona and super brand. Those of us that supported him voluntarily, and almost blindly, last year did so out of our acute frustration with Project Nigeria. There were those who hated his guts but still went ahead to vote for him because they expected him to wave the fabled magic wand and bring sanity and succour to our insane clime. What no one bargained for was the repercussion, and reverberation, of such venture and adventure. As always, Nigerians felt their situation could never be worse under Buhari than that of the 16-year rule of profligacy of the PDP and the squander-manic regime of President Goodluck Jonathan.

The APC operatives ran a blistering campaign with active collaboration and connivance from some of us. On the matter of the continuation of the Jonathan Presidency, there was no negotiation. Even now as people pummel us over the seeming inertia or retrogression of the Buhari government, I still stand by my decision to support Major General Muhammadu Buhari, warts and all. Walahi, I would have loved any of the combinations of Donald Duke, Nasir El Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Aminu Tambuwal, Mobola Johnson, Babatunde Raji Fashola, Nuhu Ribadu, Oby Ezekwesili, Charles Soludo, Akinwunmi Adesina, Pat Utomi, Kayode Fayemi, and some of our other tested and brightest young stars. They may have their personal foibles like all mortals do but I’m persuaded that Nigeria would have joined the comity of other nations parading some youthful cerebral leaders by now. But the ways of Nigerian politicians are not the ways of mere mortals. We have our unique and peculiar methods of doing things. Our incorrigibility is almost second to none.

Everything about us is about self and self alone. Everyone’s permutation is about who is his friend, school mate, church member, Muslim brother, godfather or godson, village folk, and so on. It is not about what you know but more about who you know. Nepotism is the order of the day!

That is why the best of the myriad of Nigerian brains would never be able to win elections at certain levels because of our irredeemable obsession with primordial and parochial sentiments. The import of my preamble is that Buhari was a product of our maddening and inordinate search for a near saint amongst us and he perfectly fitted the bill. Buhari himself must have assumed that the votes given to him were signed off carte-blanche and in blind trust. I’m sure he never expected that the honeymoon would not be an endless romance. But things and times have changed. It is now sour grapes time. Except for profiteers and/or pretenders who would not tell our President the gospel truth, things are falling apart. The reasons are not because of what Buhari and company are doing wrong but because of what they are not doing right which I hope to enumerate and dissect.

I had chosen to write on this topic before I received the message quoted below from a young, concerned Nigerian reflecting on the “new” rebranding that we have been subjected to. His views mirror the present mood of the nation and the restiveness of

Buhari our people especially the young ones who fought gallantly for Change and PMB! “President Buhari, with all due respect to your high office, you are losing me. What’s wrong? What’s wrong with your advisers?

Who got you to sign up to the cliché called “Change Begins With Me” and to throw the weight of your office behind it? Did they put together a crack team of psychologists, communicators, sociologists, political scientists, etc? I refuse to believe that this programme, and especially the name, is the product of deep thinking and reflection.

First, the idea that “Change Begins With Me”, renders all our efforts to get you elected in 2015 worthless. Heck, why did we bother?

If it’s going to start with us Lilliputs, we might as well have left Goodluck Jonathan in office and allow him and his band of hopeless cohorts to get on with the good job they were doing of raping Nigeria. Don’t you get it? Change began with you! We, the people, already implemented the biggest change possible with turning around this country by electing you on the mantra of change. So why are you now passing the buck? The buck is on your desk. Make the change happen and we will follow from there.

It’s over a year and many, sadly, are already suffering buyer’s remorse. Arrest the trend!

Secondly, what change can any single individual put into action that will impact the culture and behaviour of 180m people in double quick time? We are in a hurry, Mr. President. So much has been lost. So to rely on Adeola, Abubakar or Opara to start the change and hope that we will be counting gains in months is delusional. You don’t have all the time. We do not have the time. Start the Change!” – Chris Adetayo Let me reiterate that I have had the privilege of meeting and interacting with some members of the Buhari administration. I can confirm that I have held discussions and communicated the feelings of both the rich and poor on the streets directly to them. However, I am not sure that they are in tune with the reality of things on this side of the divide.

I believe I have sufficient knowledge of the political history of Nigeria. I’m afraid to say, I see the same symptoms of afflictions that ravaged previous governments and rendered

them incapacitated. I’m saddened that no lessons seemed to have been learnt from our beleaguered past. Government appears to believe only in its own mind-set and every complaint or suggestion is summed up in some dangerous conclusions: the wailing wailers; corruption is fighting back; the suffering of Nigerians is exaggerated, etc.

Equally worrisome is the apparent paranoia that has crept into our senior government officials. Every commentator or demonstrator is perceived an enemy of government. I was surprised to read how my childhood friend and brother, Femi Adesina, singled me out in his article yesterday and accused me of insinuating that he was too comfortable in Aso Rock. There are so many occupants in Aso Rock and I know the limits of Femi’s influence on the men of power. I can never blame him for what I clearly know is beyond him. He faces the same dilemma of his predecessors who found themselves defending the indefensible in order to exhibit their hard work, competence and loyalty.

It is a delicate and thankless job that leads oftentimes to Golgotha. I love Femi so much that I would rather offer him my sincere prayers instead of hanging him.

Let me go to the next case at hand. I could not believe the shabby treatment meted to Mrs Oby Ezekwesili and other members of the Bring Back Our Girls agitators. Their harmless and defenceless group is being harassed for merely exercising their constitutionally guaranteed rights of expression, association and movement. They constitute no danger whatsoever to society. Even if President Buhari won’t receive or entertain them, a senior member of the Federal Government should have been assigned to meet, pacify and reassure them. Something is terminally wrong with our crisis management capabilities. Our proclivity for mismanaging and escalating troubles is legendary. This particular case is as disgraceful as it is unnecessary. Once upon a time, in the not too distant past, these were the friends of Buhari. They had pinned their hope on the muscular and military abilities of our President to liberate the Chibok girls in a jiffy. If things were proving difficult as it seems, constant dialogue is the only way out of the debacle. But the handlers of Buhari prefer to fuel the long held belief or myth that Buhari is a mean and ruthless man. This is not good. It also comes at the wrong time. This administration has been accused of several human rights abuses and, according to the Minster of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, the President is heading for the United Nations on Tuesday to make the case that his administration is not guilty of such allegations. Intolerance for the rights of expression, association and movement cannot be a good way of making out such a case.

Anyone who has met President Buhari would readily attest to his simplicity and humility. His witty jokes are remarkable and legendary, just like his hearty smiles and laughter are infectious. He certainly means well for Nigeria and wants to rid our nation of the debilitating cankerworm of corruption and indiscipline. Why, therefore, would anyone want to remind Nigerians that the Buhari in uniform is not different from Buhari, the born again democrat. Why are they compounding Buhari’s image of an irascible

dictator? Buhari needs to make a conscious effort to tear the toga of vindictiveness and irritability that appears to surround him. The biggest image deficit he has today is due to the fact that his biggest pet project, the war against corruption, is believed to be largely uncoordinated and too staccato in outlook.

It is difficult to ignore the cries of so many Nigerians who feel let down by a government that promised so much change but seems to have short-changed the people who saw Buhari as a liberator. Even if some of the most vociferous complainants are being cheeky and outright mischievous, many are doing so out of genuine concern. They do not want Buhari to fail. It is someone who loves you unconditionally that can do this. They are worried that the President behaves like a man who feels he has all the time in the world when in reality he has none. Some believe that he started fading and failing when he took his time in selecting his ministers and advisers. The intractable squabbles in his Party has also contributed to the lacklustre nature of his government. APC does not look or act like a Party in power. There seems to be no serious input from the Party to the affairs of government and governance.

The government has been wobbling and fumbling by doing the same things PDP used to do that led to the disintegration of the biggest political party in Africa, according to their self-glorification. The war of attrition in PDP has been passed on to APC. A house divided against itself is inviting extermination.

And whenever politicians fight dirty it affects governance adversely.

The economy is in shambles and the commonest justification is that Jonathan’s gang looted the treasury. All that is well and good. But Nigerians knew this and therefore voted for Change! We promised to make things much better. Fighting corruption alone would not save Nigeria. We must fight endemic poverty. If Alhaji Lai Muhammed likes, let him launch a million campaigns and waste more scarce resources on doing a rehash of what past governments did that led nowhere.

The Yoruba have a way of describing this kind of unproductive sermonisation: “Eni ebi npa ko gbo iwaasu!” (A hungry man does not listen to sermons in the church).

What the people want to see are the following: a drastic reduction in the size and budget of our over-bloated governments; a sustained war against poverty; protection of lives and properties; creating a less rancorous atmosphere for businesses to thrive; special concessions and incentives to employers of labour; a stable currency; upgrading our educational system and making the schools’ curriculum more relevant to our communities and society in general; provision of social infrastructure, particularly power, good roads, hospitals and potable water; and so on.

The mind-set of gloating over the fall of some former members of the privileged class is counter-productive. We must be careful of the image portrayed to foreign investors.

Let government concentrate urgently on alleviating the suffering of the people. It is obvious that government may never be able to collect enough money back from the brigands and looters to make appreciable impact on our national treasury. We should stop building our castle in the air and start thinking outside the box.

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