WEDNESDAY 8TH MAY 2019

Vogue: Arise Fashion Week, First World-Class African Runway Show It’s reimagining West African fabrics, says New York Times Ingrid Tamborin, Vogue and Elizabeth Coop, New York Times There are no other words to describe the outcome of

the first world-class African fashion week that echoed from 19 to 22 April in Lagos - catalyzing the entire fashion industry in one of the largest cities on the continent.

Among those present were Edward Enninful, Olivia Singer and Andre Leon Tally: they all flew to the event to be on the front row and to give content and recognition to this great

moment. The legendary Naomi Campbell, who together with international guest Liya Kebede has managed to open and close the main fashion shows to show support and

confidence in this emerging market, giving her voice and being an ambassador.

"We need to build infrastructure and consistency," says entrepreneur and leader

Nduka Obaigbena, founder and owner of Arise Fashion Week and of the THISDAY Newspaper group, which Continued on page 8

Amaechi: FG Needs $45bn to Fix Transportation Infrastructure... Page 9 Wednesday 8 May, 2019 Vol 24. No 8794. Price: N250

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Four-Year Report Card of Team Buhari (2015-2019) – Part 4...

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Seek Multidimensional Approach to End Insecurity, UNGA Advises Nigeria I won't let the nation down, says Buhari Appeals for UN support Police to recruit 10,000 personnel Deji Elumoye, Omololu Ogunmade, Shola Oyeyipo and Ogheneuvede Ohwovoriole in Abuja The President of the 73th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA),

Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garces, has proposed a multidimensional and holistic approach to end security challenges bedevilling Nigeria and other parts of West Africa.

Continued on page 8

Tribunal Commences Hearing on Atiku, Others' Petitions Today Alex Enumah in Abuja The Presidential Election Petition Tribunal will today formally commence hearing in the petitions filed by candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 presidential election, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, his party, the

PDP, and three other political parties and their presidential candidates against the victory of President Muhammadu Buhari and his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Atiku, PDP and the others in their various petitions Continued on page 9

Saraki to EFCC: Stop the Witch-Hunt against Me... Page 10

FEEDING TIME… A pupil, Miss Abosede, and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo taking a meal of Igbemo rice during the inauguration of Home Grown School Feeding Programme at St. Michael Primary School, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State… yesterday

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House Revisits, Amends Electoral Amendment Bill 2018 Shola Oyeyipo in Abuja The House of Representatives yesterday revisited the gray areas identified by President Muhammadu Buhari as reasons for withholding his assent to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2018 and amended the clauses to suit the president’s desires.

The Chairman, House Committee on Rules and Business and member representing Jos South/Jos East federal constituency of Plateau State, Hon. Edward Pwajok (SAN) had last Tuesday, moved a motion urging his colleagues to revisit the amendment bill in the interest of Nigeria.

The amendments were later carried out yesterday at the

Committee of the Whole chaired

by Speaker Yakubu Dogara.

According to Pwajok, the amendments were important because Buhari opted to withhold his assent last December 2018, on the grounds that there were some drafting issues that needed to be corrected.

He, therefore, implored his colleagues to consider looking at the clauses the president pointed out in the bill that required reconsideration.

Some of the areas the president noted in the amendment bill were Section 5, amending section 18 of the Principal Act, which he said should indicate the subsection to which the substitution of the figure ‘30’ for the figure ‘60’ is to be effected.

“B. Section 11, amending Section 36 should indicate the subsection in which the provision is to be introduced. “C. Section 24, which amends Section 85(1) should be redrafted in full as the introduction of the “electing� to the sentence may be interpreted to mean that the political parties may give 21 days’ notice of the intention to merge, as opposed to the 90 days provided in Section 84(2) of the Electoral Act, which provides the provision for merger of political parties.� “D. The definition of the term “Ward Collection Officer� should be revised to reflect a more descriptive definition than the capitalized and undefined term “Registration Area Collation Officer.�

If the amendment receives presidential assent, the scenario in Kogi State when former Kogi State governor and All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the November 21, 2015, governorship election, Prince Abubakar Audu, who died 22 November while the electoral process was still on, paving the way for incumbent Governor Yahya Bello, will never reoccur.

If a party loses its candidate, who is leading in an election before the result is declared, fresh primary would have to be conducted to elect a new candidate within seven days of the death and the name must be submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Another aspect of the amendment is that INEC would no longer have the power to declare result in an election where a candidate dies before the conclusion of the process. The electoral umpire would have to suspend the election for a period not more than 21 days.

While considering the report, the lawmakers also adopted three new clauses, subsection 1 of Section 18 of the Principal Act. This amendment seeks that any electoral officer apprehended for issuing a Permanent Voter Card (PVC) to any voter less than 30 days before election will be liable to five years imprisonment or a fine of N5million or both.

The new subsection (2) proposes: "If the Electoral Officer

or any other officer is satisfied as to the circumstances of the loss, destruction, defacement or damage of the Voters‘Card, he shall issue to the voter a replacement of Permanent Voter Card.

New subsection (3) states: "No person shall issue a replacement of a permanent voters’ card to any voter on polling day or less than thirty (30) days before polling day.

The new subsection (4) says: "Any person who contravenes subsection (3) of this section commits an offence and is liable on conviction to 5 years imprisonment or a fine of N5, 000,000.00 or both".

Section 36(1) of the Principal Act was also amended by (3) inserting after the word “days" and “proviso."

least a million children who neither know their parents, nor where they come from," the president was quoted, adding: "Bridges have been blown up, schools, hospitals, churches, mosques, and other buildings have been destroyed.

All these will be rehabilitated, and every form of international help is welcome."

According to the statement, the president also canvassed support for the recharge of Lake Chad through inter-basin water transfer from Congo River, saying climate change was quite real to the region and noted that no fewer than 30 million people were negatively affected by the shrinking lake, with at least half of them being Nigerians.

Adesina added that Buhari emphasised the role that the international community needed to play in the endeavour, noting that recharging the lake was beyond the financial capacity of the affected countries.

The statement also said the UNGA president commended

Nigeria for being a key part of the UN system, describing Nigeria as a well respected country in the global body.

"Nigeria is a major troops’ contributor to peace keeping operations, and a major part of the human rights architecture," Adesina quoted Garces, adding that the UNGA boss commended the president's headship of ECOWAS, and the Lake Chad Basin Commission, pledging to call the attention of the international community to the hurting effects of the Lake Chad problem and other issues raised by the Nigerian leader.

"The UNGA president also lauded Nigeria for rehabilitating the UN building in Abuja, which was destroyed by Boko Haram insurgents during an attack in August 2011," Adesina added.

SEEK MULTIDIMENSIONAL APPROACH TO END INSECURITY, UNGA ADVISES NIGERIA Garces, who arrived in Nigeria on Monday, to discuss issues of Nigeria’s transition as the President of the 73th session of the UNGA, made the call after being received by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chief Geoffrey Onyeama.

Fielding questions from Nigerian journalists on growing spate of insecurity in the northern part of Nigeria and how the United Nations has been assisting the country, Garces, who said she would hand over to a Nigerian, Prof. Tijani Bande, in June, said: “Regarding the question on Nigeria, West Africa and the security challenges, I think that the regional response is extremely important.

This Multinational Joint Task Force, I think, has great role to play but it is only a part of the equation. “Perhaps, more important part of the equation is to look at the challenges in the Lake Chad areas as multidimensional and from a holistic approach. “These are not fancy words.

What I mean here is that the security efforts – this joint task force

can work together with the support of the UN to be accompanied by a very strong affirmative action in terms of development, in term of inclusion and looking at the excellent initiatives of this country to resettle and accommodate the internally displaced people; how to address the refugee crises; how to improve quality of education; access to health services – I think it’s one single package.�

Noting that this was her second visit to Africa, since becoming President of the General Assembly, Espinosa stressed that her visit to Nigeria was to further strengthen the ties between Nigeria and the UN, and to raise awareness on the importance of multilateralism with the UN at its centre.

According to her, multilateralism is the only way to tackle, address and solve the global challenges that are impacting lives and livelihood across the world, including climate change.

She added, “In this very region the impact manifested in the decline of Lake Chad Basin

and its cascading effects on the environment, on the insecurity and violence, displacement and refugees are all interlinked.�

Responding, Onyeama, who commended her for various achievements as the president of the global institution, appealed to her to help in finding solution to a lot of challenges Africa is facing.

According to him, “It is a privilege that you are just coming from Chad and you have seen the climate induced shrinkage of Lake Chad. For us, it is an existential issue because it is a lake that almost 30 million people depend on for their livelihood. ‘’We have seen it shrink by 90 per cent over the years' this has created very severe challenge for the people of that sub-region and indeed for our country. We are looking to have the support of the UN and your support in particular to address this challenge. ‘’One of the mechanisms we have identified is to recharge the lake. It is going to be capital intensive efforts. Something in

the area of 40 to 50 billion dollars estimated, and clearly, we are going to leverage on the international community because this is a huge resources and we look for your support.�

Buhari appeals for UN Support Meanwhile President Muhammadu Buhari at the closed-door meeting with the UN chief sought the assistance of the world body as well as the international community for the reversal of the devastation of certain parts of Nigeria by Boko Haram insurgency.

A statement by the president's media adviser, Mr. Femi Adesina, said the president told the visiting President of the 73rd Session of UNGA that the condition of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the country was pathetic and required their interventions.

"The condition of internally displaced persons ((IDPs) in the country is pathetic. We have at

UN Chiefs Says Nigeria's Search for Permanent Security Council Seat Divisive Continued on page 9

VOGUE: ARISE FASHION WEEK, FIRST WORLD-CLASS AFRICAN RUNWAY SHOW sees fashion as an important vehicle for the development of their country. "Nigeria needs to build infrastructures and encourage politics. Fashion represents a woman's life and plays a fundamental role in each of us, which is expressed every day through creativity and beauty."

Arise showed the whole world to be the most suitable platform to host such an imminent "Africa calling." The Arise media group, conferences, presentations and round tables, crowned by the three days of fashion shows, gave a scene to a panorama of international and African voices of excellence.

With over 35 stylists from all over the world, including presentations and fashion shows, the program was a veritable discovery of talent.

From the asymmetric and oversized collection of Swedish Eritrea Selam Fessahaye to the renowned Nigerian Englishman Tokyo James, the South African Rich Mnisi, to the much loved haute couture Deola Sagoe, Tiffany Amber, 3Paradis, Ituen Basi, Mai Atafo, U-MI-1, solo to name a few.

International designers like Colombian-American Esteban Cortazar, Haitian-American stylist Kerby Jean-Raymond, founder of Pyer Moss brand, ASAI London brand, fashion designer Bethany Williams and Robert Cavalli's Tripple RR have made the difference.

In the spotlight the long awaited Nigerian brand Kenneth Ize and LVMH award finalist: "Kenneth's collection represents a pure union between Africa and the West ... a modern interpretation of the classical vision of the African

language and its fabrics and styles. Simple feminine silhouettes reminiscent of Ize's mother's lace party dresses of the late 1960s, early 1970s in Lagos - an era of so-called laidback style in Nigeria, when people adopted a more casual interpretation of the traditional " aso Oke ". The Kenneth collection is an example of unique African design, modern and wearable by all and for all places. Kenneth Ize is certainly a promise!" Desiree Ejoh, creative director of Arise Fashion Week, says.

The artistic and sculptural definition of the Moroccan designer Maison ARTC highlighted the African soul with its latest Artfrika collection - showing the world how fashion on the continent is still interwoven with art and creativity.

"I fell in love with her deep artistic sense and how each piece represents a true work of art. There is always a message that must not be explained, but that you can simply read through her clothes," says Ruth Osime, executive editor of the newspaper, THISDAY STYLE / THISDAY Newspaper.

Even the world of fashion agencies has shown its presence with the participation of the current model Alton Mason and South Sudanese model Shanelle Nyasiase, along with one of the most interesting new faces of the last season, the model Somala Ugbad Abdi. International agencies have entered Africa, thus declaring Lagos the new capital of fashion.

ARISE 19 defines this historic moment by demonstrating that a new migration is underway, opening a new chapter that will

definitely take place on the African continent.

"We want to add Lagos to the fashion week calendar, making it an international event, just after Paris, thus inaugurating the first real capital of African fashion," the founder Nduka Obaigbena concludes.

Immediately after Paris, 2020, destination is Lagos!

Reimagining West African Fabrics Elizabeth Coop of the New York Times also reports that earlier this month in Lagos, Nigeria, the models Naomi Campbell and Alton Mason — she, an industry icon; he, one of the most in-demand faces in fashion now — walked the runway together at Arise Fashion Week, an annual showcase of ready-to-wear from across Africa. Striding hand in hand, they wore coordinating suits, finely striped and rendered in vivid colors (hibiscus pink, acid yellow), created by the Nigerian designer Kenneth Ize, whose work with hand-woven Yoruba aso oke fabrics, patterned textiles traditionally reserved for special occasions, has won him fans including BeyoncĂŠ, Donald Glover and Campbell. Ize, 29, founded his namesake label just three years ago, but his mission is already clear: “We’re reviving, reinterpreting and giving new context to artisan techniques that have given meaning to West African identity,â€? he says.

For Ize, who is a finalist for this year’s LVMH Prize for emerging talent, this show marked both the debut of his fifth men’s season and also his foray into women’s

wear. The pieces he presented in both collections — free-flowing teal silk tunics, tailored two-piece suits in Crayola-bright colors and swingy skirts trimmed with rainbows of loose threads and worn over Nigerian wax-printed trousers — demonstrated the diversity of African design, old and new. “It’s important for us to have the freedom and ability to express exactly who we are — and where we are from,� says Ize. With their gender-neutral silhouettes and vibrant prints, Ize’s collections feel both contemporary and rooted in the traditional garments he remembers his mother wearing during his childhood. “Weeks before a special celebration, my mother and her friends would take over the whole house with rolls of material as they prepared their outfits,� he recalls. “I’d just sit there and watch my mother put her outfits together.�

While studying fashion and design at the University of Applied Arts Vienna, under the tutelage of first Bernhard Willhelm and later Hussein Chalayan, Ize continued to think about West Africa and its artisanal traditions, such as Nigerian batik patterning, printing and stitching. “The technical competency of the artisans is incredible — I just knew I had to work with them,� he says. “I didn’t think that we could separate our work from historical references. But I did think that we could work in a way that felt more representative of the African experience.� In 2016, he started his namesake label in Lagos. He now hopes his studio, currently located in the suburb of Sabo Yaba, where

he has a small team, can function as a hub for the wide-ranging community of Nigerian artisans he works with. For the most part, his collaborators live in small villages near Lagos and the city of Ilorin “that aren’t always easy to find,� he explains. “There’s no real institutional framework to mobilize or support people who still practice this artisanship here,� he says. “I’d like to bring together a dedicated team in Lagos.�

For each new collection, Ize and his team source yarn from Lagos or Europe — often in fiery orange-reds, earthy yellows and royal blues — before giving them to the brand’s head weaver, Rakiya Momo, also known as Queen B. She and the other weavers then use hand looms and Yoruba-inspired weaving techniques to make the collection’s aso oke fabrics.

Each of Ize’s pieces connects the techniques and traditions that define Nigeria’s past with the ideas shaping its present. “We always try to find new ways of reinterpreting it,� he explains. In his women’s collection, not only has he revived contemporary aso oke styles seen in his men’s wear, such as micropleated shirts in geometric patterns made with metallic yarns from Kyototex in Japan, but he has also incorporated lace and embroidery for the first time, seen on aso oke garments such as vibrantly printed and color-blocked dresses.

There are also prints of women’s faces by the young Nigerian artist Fadekemi Ogunsanya, which appear on billowing silk pants; polka-dot-printed green caftans with ruffled cuffs and collars; and aso oke scarves finished with metallic fringe and worn over

softly tailored tangerine suits.

In 2019, many of the centuriesold techniques that Ize and his community of artisans use are in danger of disappearing; a shift from handicraft to mass production has weakened the infrastructure needed to support and pass down traditional weaving techniques. But through his collaborative design model, he is helping to sustain these crafts by creating innovative clothes for a younger generation. “It allows us to show a different, or at least a more nuanced, picture of African life and culture,� he says. “By exploring and nurturing existing cultures, we’ll create and inspire new ones.� r $VMMFE GSPN 7PHVF BOE 5IF /FX :PSL 5JNFT

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Amaechi: FG Needs $45bn to Fix Transportation Infrastructure Ejiofor Alike The Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi, has said the federal government requires $45 billion to fix the country’s transportation infrastructure, adding that rail infrastructure is a capital intensive sector.

Explaining the amount spent so far on rail infrastructure in the country during an interview on Channels Television breakfast programme, Sunrise Daily

yesterday, the minister revealed that this figure would be needed to solve the country’s “problem of transportation to a great extent.�

He said the sector is capitalintensive, adding that huge funds would be needed to construct more railroads and acquire coaches.

He said: “It is capital intensive.

N1trillion is about $2.7 billion and that is just about 200 kilometres of the railway. So, if you plan to do Lagos-Ibadan and you are looking at about $8.7 billion – this will

be between N3 trillion and N4 trillion. How much is the budget of the country? “That is why I said we need about $35 to $45 billion to be able to do Lagos-Kano, Port HarcourtMaiduguri, Lagos-Calabar, and Abuja-Warri. Once you do these four tracks, you have covered the country, and you have solved the problem of transportation to a great extent.�

Amaechi also gave a breakdown of the expenses incurred so far on

rail construction most especially the Lagos-Ibadan railroad.

According to him, the federal government is making efforts to acquire coaches and locomotives for the Lagos-Ibadan railroad.

He said: “Lagos-Ibadan Railroad will cost about $1.6 billion. This does not include the extra cost of things we did not prepare for.

The Kaduna-Abuja construction will cost about $1billion. “We have paid about $500 million to buy locomotives for

Lagos-Ibadan. So that’s what we’ve so far spent.�

Speaking on his political fight with the Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Nyesom Wike, the minister said he is not at war with the Rivers State governor.

He said he is only inconvenient with the level of insecurity in the state. “There is no war going on between Wike and me. It is like my friend Akpabio, when we met the other day, I said we are not

quarreling. “What is going on between Wike and me is the fact that he wants to run a second term. The fact is that he ran the first term in which people were killed. Today, he is accusing the army and not the police because they refused to take bribe from him.�

The former governor said during his administration as the state governor, he investigated and ensured the arrest of the perpetrators of crime.

CEOs Decry Low Insurance Patronage Ebere Nwoji The slowdown in economic activities is taking its toll on the insurance businesses, some chief executive officers (CEOs) of companies in the sector have said.

Speaking in separate interview with THISDAY, the CEOs said the sector was still reeling under the effects of the lull in the economy that trailed the 2019 general election.

Managing Director, Anchor Insurance, Mr. Augustine Ebose, while speaking on his company's experience, said business has not been as rewarding as it was supposed to be.

"We won't say we haven't started business, But is the business as

rewarding as we thought? We will say No, because of the election campaigns and government is the chief motivator and you know the insurance setting is our area. “Now that elections are over, we hope that we can start harnessing our potential in terms of premium gathering and more businesses will come.�

To the President, Nigeria Council of Registered Insurance Brokers, Mr. Shola Tinubu, there is no doubt that the industry more than any other sector, suffered disruption in smooth flow of business in the first quarter of the year.

He said this was glaring, looking at some companies' result in the first three months of 2019, most of which he said are currently being

put together.

He, however, said when operators' efforts in developing retail markets yields fruits, government would cease to dominate activities in the sector.

He also said as the elections are over, there is hope of better year for the industry.

On his part, the Managing Director, FBN General Insurance, Bode Opadokun, also confirmed the slowdown of business in the sector.

He, however, urged operators to develop strategies to remain profitable.

On the General problem of high claims ratio against low premium income hitting the industry and how his company has managed to

overcome it, Opadokun stated: "If there is anything FBN has done, it is improvement on our claims portfolio management.

"We have directed efforts to set our claims portfolios management right.

"Insurance opens shop to pay claims. Claims payment is not selling point but how fast you pay it is the main thing.�

The insurance sector had been described as the weakest link in the Nigerian economy because of the low capital base of operators.

The Commissioner for Insurance, Mohammed Kari, had explained that the sector that ought to insure critical sectors such as aviation, should not be seen to have capital base, which is even less than that

of microfinance banks.

Currently capital base of life insurance firms in Nigeria is N2 billion, that of non -life is N3 billion, composite firms have N5 billion capital while reinsurers have N10 billion capital base.

Kari had added, “How can an insurance company that insures the aviation sector have capital less than that of microfinance banks?

We should wake up. “Some insurance operators argue that capital is not important. If capital has no function, how come banks bought over insurance companies that used to be owned by insurance companies? “Insurance anywhere in the world is the mobiliser of funds and provider of security. You

cannot provide security if you don’t have capital. “How can you approach a microfinance bank of N5billion and tell them you want to give them protection. What is your capital?�

Referring to what happens in other climes, Kari had said: “Check any jurisdiction in the world, insurance companies are more capitalised than banks. “Insurance companies own virtually all the financial sectors in the world. They fund infrastructure because they have long-term funds to fund long term business. If the insurance industry doesn’t need capital, why are they the weakest link in the financial sector?� he queried.

required in order to make the Police combat the necessary threats to our security."

In the meantime, the president has promised once again not to let Nigerians down, saying he is conscious of the weight of responsibility on his shoulders.

Buhari who made the remarks at the daily Tafsir (Quranic interpretations) marking the month of Ramadan fast at the State House Mosque, promised to provide effective and result-oriented leadership, which safeguards and ensures a better life for citizens.

In a statement, presidential spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, said Buhari stated that the reality of his office weighed heavily on his mind at all times, and would keep working to ensure there is improved life for every Nigerian.

The statement added that the president said he knew what to do, and would not fail Nigerians.

It also said Buhari expressed gratitude to all Nigerians for the opportunity to serve a second term in office, promising that their expectations by giving him

the mandate would be met. “The expectations of Nigerians will be met. I will not let them down. I will continue to do my best,� he said.

Shehu also said the president reiterated his earlier message on the occasion of Ramadan to Nigerians that discipline should be the watchword of every citizen.

He also said Buhari advised citizens to use the fasting period to reflect on their lives and be more constructive and purposeful by promoting harmony, adding that the fasting period also provides good opportunity for charity.

Furthermore, Shehu said the Chief Imam of the Mosque, Sheik Abdulwaheed Sulaiman, in his remarks, thanked God for the last general election, calling for repentance and prayers on security challenges confronting the nation.

"Sheik Abdulwaheed Sulaiman gave thanks to Almighty Allah for allowing the general election to take place peacefully throughout the country.

"He called for repentance and prayers to avert the current security challenges confronting the nation.

He said the security incidents are a test from God," the statement added.

The two petitioners, who claimed to have been excluded from participating in the February 23 poll, averred that the election was invalid by reason of noncompliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, which stipulates the conditions under which election can be lawfully postponed.

Their main grouse was that they were validly nominated for the 2019 general election, but were unlawfully excluded from the said elections by INEC, which delisted their names and party logo from the ballot papers.

They, however, asserted that they will at the trial lead evidence and rely on the laws in support of their petitions to establish that the shifting of the election from February 16 to 23 was without the force of law and powers to do so.

Another grouse of the petitioners was that INEC placed a false version of their registered party logo on the ballot papers for elections and that cost them the chances of realising their political ambition in the 2019 general election.

However, Buhari, the APC and INEC in their separate replies have urged the tribunal to uphold their victory at the February 23 poll and dismiss the various petitions on grounds that the allegations against the conduct of the election were baseless, unsubstantiated and lacking in merit.

Buhari in his reply specifically urged the tribunal to disregard Atiku's petition on the grounds that he was not qualified to have contested the election in the first place on the grounds of his nationality.

SEEK MULTIDIMENSIONAL APPROACH TO END INSECURITY, UNGA ADVISES NIGERIA Also speaking at the State House in Abuja, Garces said Nigeria’s search for a permanent seat in the United Nations (UN) Security Council has remained a pipe dream as there is no political will among member states to accommodate such request.

Answering questions from journalists after a meeting with Buhari, Garces said the pursuit had been one of the most complex, divisive and contentious issues before the global body so far.

Garces, who said whereas the reform process, which would have accelerated Nigeria's quest for the seat started two and half decades ago, inter-governmental negotiations over the matter formally began 10 years ago, pointing out that despite many years of pursuit, member states have failed to reach a consensus to push the matter through.

According to her, achieving such a consensus is a necessity to realising the dream, explaining that even though her office has so far been concerned about the successful and transparent outcome of the process, there will continue to be a stalemate unless member states muster the will to achieve it.

She said there had been divergent views on the matter,

adding that what UNGA is currently doing is to harmonise such views with a view to finding a common ground, which she said was aimed at making the The five current permanent members of the UN Security Council, which Nigeria seeks to join, are United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia and China.

Also answering a question on the plan of the UN towards addressing the humanitarian crises plaguing the Lake Chad region, Garces said the organisation had signed a $4.5 million cooperation framework with Nigeria.

She also disclosed that the UN was deploying energy towards supporting countries around the Lake Chad basin with a view to improving the humanitarian support to the region.

Police to Recruit 10,000 Personnel In a related development, the federal government has expressed its readiness to address the security challenges facing the nation headlong as the Acting Inspector General of Police, Mr. Mohammed Adamu, assured yesterday that Nigeria Police is up to the task.

Adamu, who spoke after a two and half hour close-door meeting with the Senate, stated that the Police are now more alive to their responsibility in securing lives and property.

The IG, who alluded to the fact that Nigerian Police is currently understaffed, however, said government has approved the recruitment of 10,000 personnel this year.

His words: "Policing is dynamic.

The number of personnel we have can never be enough. But the government is trying to recruit every year. This year, we have 10,000 to recruit. We will meet up with the required number."

He said the Senate saw reason with his presentation on the need to make the country more secured "as the Senate has appreciated what we have presented and they are willing to enhance the strategy. The Senate has agreed to support all our activities to make the country secure".

Adamu described as false the report that federal government recently paid N100 billion to herdsmen to stop killings across the country.

According to him, "the information you got about giving N100 billion to herdsmen to stop

killing is from the social media.

There was no discussion like that.

The source of that information is not yet known. It is somebody’s imagination".

On the reported molestation of women by some policemen in Abuja, the IG assured that police authorities will set up a panel to investigate the matter "and any policeman found wanting will face the wrath of the law."

He further stated that "the raiding of nightclubs in Abuja was done

by FCT task force. They came out to do their job and they reached out to police to support them and we did that. Women were arrested and convicted. It means that they committed an offense".

On his part, the Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, assured of the readiness of the Senate to assist the Police in tackling the security issues facing the nation.

Saraki, who summarised what transpired at the close-door meeting between the Senate and IG upon resumption of plenary yesterday, emphasised that the Senate promised and expressed commitment to assist in areas of funding.

He said: "The Senate is ready at any time to give assistance to provide adequate funding that is

I Won't Let Nigerians Down, Says Buhari

TRIBUNAL COMMENCES HEARING ON ATIKU, OTHERS' PETITIONS TODAY are seeking the nullification of Buhari's victory at the February 23 presidential poll on allegations of widespread rigging, violations of the Electoral Act, suppression of voters and violence amongst other electoral malpractices.

The others include the Hope Democratic Party (HDP) and its presidential candidate, Chief Ambrose Owuru; Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) and its presidential candidate, Pastor Aminchi Habu; and the Coalition for Change (C4C) and its presidential candidate, Mr. Jeff Ojinka.

Atiku in his petition specifically asked the tribunal to disqualify Buhari, winner of the February 23 presidential election, on the grounds that he (Buhari) did not possess the requisite academic qualification to contest for the office of the President.

The petition, which is premised on five grounds, alleged that Buhari lied about his academic qualification as well as schools attended in his form 001 submitted to INEC for purpose of contesting the 2019 presidential election.

Atiku and PDP had filed their petition against the outcome of the election at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal in Abuja, on March 18, 2019.

While the HDP and Owuru's petition marked CA/EPT/ PRE/001/2019, was filed March 7, the petition of the C4C along with its presidential candidate and that of the PDM and its presidential candidate were filed same day, March 19, 2019.

However, a statement by the Media Officer of the Court of Appeal, Saadatu Musa Kachalla, on

Tuesday said that the "Presidential Election Petition Tribunal Panel will begin its inaugural session on Wednesday, 8th May 2019 at the Abuja Division courtroom.

Time: 9a.m.�

While Atiku and the PDP in their petition specifically attacked the conduct of the February 23, presidential election conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), they asked the tribunal to disqualify Buhari on the grounds that he was not qualified to have contested the election in the first place and as such all votes accredited to him

by INEC should be declared as wasted votes.

Owuru, Habu and Ojinka in their separate petitions, however, prayed the tribunal to nullify the election of Buhari on the grounds

of alleged massive rigging of the February 23 presidential election as well as substantial non compliance with the provisions of the law by the electoral umpire, the INEC. Respondents in the petitions are Buhari, APC and INEC. However, unlike in all the other petitions, the C4C had included the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, as the 2nd Respondent, with APC and INEC, 3rd and 4th respectively in its petition.

The HDP and Owuru in their petition marked CA/EPT/ PRE/001/2019, dated March 6 and filed March 7 prayed the tribunal to nullify the election of February 23 and the subsequent declaration of Buhari as the winner on the grounds that INEC has no power under any law to shift the February 16 date to 23.

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WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike Email Ejiofor.Alike@thisdaylive.com, 08066066268

Saraki to EFCC: Stop the Witch-Hunt against Me Obinna Chima The Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has described as mere witch-hunt the investigations commenced by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in the various institutions where he had served or presently serving.

The Senate president said this yesterday in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Yusuph Olaniyonu.

Saraki was responding to EFCC’s reaction to a report that the anti-graft agency had written a letter to the Kwara State Government demanding for all

details of salaries, allowances, estacode or any other entitlement enjoyed by Saraki during his tenure as governor of the state between 2003 and 2011.

Saraki argued that the exercise by the EFCC was only aimed at settling scores, laced with malicious and partisan motives.

The EFCC in the report had claimed that, “the commission’s letter to the Kwara State Government House, which sought an inquest into Saraki’s earnings as the state governor, from 2003 to 2011 was dated Friday, April 26, 2019, predating his (Saraki) announcement as IHRC ambassador at large which came

Five Persons Killed as Suspected Herdsmen Raid TarabaVillages Five persons were feared dead yesterday following an attack by suspected herdsmen in Murbai community of Ardo kola Local Government Area (LGA) in Taraba State.

The attack started on Monday at Yowai community under Jalingo LGA, and later escalated to Yelwa in Abare community of Ardo-kola LGA yesterday.

According to some members of the community who spoke to journalists, the attackers rode on motorcycles and shot sporadically, which led to the death of five persons and several houses burnt.

They also said that the herdsmen ransacked other

communities and two persons are receiving treatment in a hospital.

An eyewitness, Francis Nomiri who narrated the incident, said his father was among those who got hit by stray bullets from the attackers.

The state Commissioner of Police, Alkasim Sanusi, confirmed that the command had been intimated on the issue, adding that security operatives have been deployed to the affected communities to restore normalcy.

He also stated that an investigation has commenced, promising that those behind the act will be apprehended.

on Sunday, April 28, 2019 with two clear days.”

But Saraki in the statement pointed out that the “IHRC letter informing the Senate President of his appointment was dated March 16, 2019, that is about 40 days before the EFCC wrote its letter conveying the investigations to the Kwara State Government House.

“In fact, the media team of the Senate president held on to the announcement of the appointment for several weeks so that we could do due diligence on it.

“At this point, we need to remind members of the public that Dr. Saraki’s tenure as Kwara State Governor has been investigated several times since his last months in office in 2010 till date.

“In fact, at a point, as incumbent governor, he voluntarily waived his immunity and submitted to investigation and yet nothing was found against him. Also, members of the public should be reminded that during the proceedings of his trial at the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) between 2015 and 2018, it became clear that the evidence relied upon was from investigations conducted by the EFCC on his tenure as governor

and that is why the lead witness for the prosecution was an EFCC agent, Michael Wetkas.

“Yet, the CCT in its judgment dismissed the 16 charges filed against Dr. Saraki and that verdict was upheld by the highest court of the land, the Supreme Court,” the statement explained.

Saraki insisted that the new investigation into his activities as governor of Kwara State was a repeat performance, adding that the EFCC was fishing for evidence that they did not get in the past investigations, which spanned almost nine years.

He reminded the commission the he is not an outgoing governor, adding that since 2011, tens of governors have been in and out of the various state houses, likewise, hundreds of Senators and members of House of Representatives.

“To single out one individual for persistent investigation can only be logically and plausibly interpreted to be a witch-hunt.

“This is definitely no fight against corruption. It is a battle waged against a ‘political enemy’.

It is a ‘label to damage’ plot,” the statement argued.

Saraki also revealed that not

satisfied with the reports submitted by its various teams, which had worked on the his case in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, and Lagos, the EFCC had constituted a fresh team to investigate the office of Senate president and also despatched another letter late last week to the Clerk of the Senate signed by Director of Operations, Mohammed Umar Abba.

According to Saraki, the commission in the said letter requested for “the Certified True Copies (CTCs) of the following: All cash books, payment vouchers, contract award letters, evidence of contract bidding, agreement and certificate of contract completion from the 2015 to date; CTCs of all financial retirement made within the same period; and any other information that may assist the commission in its investigation”.

The Senate president noted that the letter was only written to his office and not to both chambers of the National Assembly.

He added that it was the first time such a letter would be written to the office of the Senate president at the twilight of the tenure of the National Assembly, saying the development was an indication of hostile investigation along these

lines. According to him, none of his predecessors got such ‘exclusive’ treatment in which their office was investigated by state officials seeking to nail them at all cost.

“What EFCC does not know is that all the issues they are seeking to probe in the office of the Senate president are handled by the National Assembly management, that is the bureaucracy of the federal legislature.

“The Senate president has nothing to do with such issues.

Saraki led a senate where the leadership does not get involved in contract awards. It has initiated public hearing as part of the process for annual appropriations bill passage and has helped to make the legislative institution more responsive to the yearnings of the ordinary people.

“While we do not wish to obstruct the EFCC in the performance of its tasks, we reiterate our position that the commission should be professional, ethical, transparent and consistent.

“It cannot be deemed professional when the agency is not consistent in the application of its rules and the laws to all cases and individuals,” the statement added.

INEC: We Can’t Expose Sensitive Materials Used in 2019 Elections Adedayo AkinwaleinAbuja The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that despite its policy to be transparent, some of the materials used in the election are sensitive and cannot be exposed.

The Chairman of the commission, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this yesterday in Abuja at the 2019 Press Freedom Award, organised by the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ).

Yakubu who was represented

by INEC National Commissioner and Chairman Voter Education and Publicity, Mr. Festus Okoye, also cautioned against the dangers of fake news, and especially its destabilisation power on the society.

The chairman noted that it is challenging dealing with deliberate misinformation, especially information relating to the intentions of the commission, saying its processes could be difficult to communicate.

He stated: “The issue of fake news is now a big issue. It is now difficult to filter fake news and real news. The tragedy is that in a society where rumour- mongering is a big national challenge, fake news can destabilise the society and lead to complete breakdown of law and order .

“It is also challenging dealing with deliberate misinformation.

Information relating to the intentions of the commission and its processes can be very difficult to communicate. While it is the policy of the commission to be transparent,

some of the materials used in the election are sensitive and cannot be exposed,” Yakubu explained.

Yakubu stressed that the media must see the commission as a critical national treasure and strive to support it , and where necessary, criticise it in a constructive and not in a destructive manner.

The INEC chairman also explained the differences between the INEC and the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC), noting that many people in the past have used the two interchangeably and thus, confusing their roles.

He said that the media must therefore be abreast and knowledgeable of the statutory role of the INEC and SIEC, adding that often, the media group and organisations use both interchangeably and confuse the role and place of both institutions in the electoral process.

“Sometimes, when people are reporting about the SIEC, they report as if they are reporting the INEC. The only nexus between the SIEC and INEC is the fact that the voter register that is used in the conduct of local government elections is the same voter register that INEC compiled.

“So, the constitution and the law obligate the INEC to hand over the voter register to the SIEC for them to use in the conduct of local government election.

Other than that there is no nexus between what the SIEC does and what INEC does at the national level,” he added.

IT’S NICE MEETING YOU…

L-R: Chef de Cabinet, President of United Nations General Assembly, Kwabena Osei-Danquah; UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator , Edward Kallon; President of United Nations General Assembly ,Ms. Maria Fernanda Espinaso ; and President Muhammadu Buhari, during during the visit of President of United Nations General Assembly to the Presidential Villa , Abuja…yesterday GODWIN OMOIGUI

Cameroonian Gendarmes Kill Scores of Nigerians in A’Ibom Okon Bassey in Uyo Scores of Nigerians were feared killed and others missing following an alleged attacks by Cameroonian gendarmes on Abana, a fishing community on the fringes the Bakassi Peninsula.

The Village Head of Ifa Ikot Akpan in Uyo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Etteidung Edem Ebong, who confirmed the incident to journalists in Uyo, said the victims were mostly Akwa Ibom indigenes.

The monarch added that several others have been abducted and detained at the detention facility in Cameroon.

One of the fishermen, who escaped the incident and fled into his community in the coastal community of Uruan Local

Government Area, Etebong Bassey, stated the unresolved problem of multiple taxations by Akwa Ibom and Cameroonian authorities triggered the fracas.

“As fishermen, we have been paying multiple taxes to different authorities for Akwa Ibom and Cameroon for several years now and the youths became angry and protested over the issue.

“So, the Gendarmes cash in on the protest and invaded the communities within the Shell Creek area,” he explained.

According to him, those affected hailed from several Akwa Ibom communities, including Ifa Ikot Akpan, Ekpene Ibia, Ikot Akan, Ikot Otoinye, Nnaenine and Ikot Inyang, all in Uyo and Uruan LGAs. According to him: “Three days ago, some fishermen who

are indigenes of Uyo and Uruan LGAs, who visited home for a funeral ceremony were forced to return on their way back to Abana, when they got a distress call that their homes in Abana had been invaded and several people killed, some abducted and properties destroyed”.

However, the monarch, who confirmed the development, appealed to the state and federal government for urgent intervention to rescue the missing victims.

“Yes, the victims returned with tales of woes in my palace here.

They told me their settlements at Abana had been destroyed with over 40 of them killed, while several others were arrested on trump up allegations of starting the problem that degenerated into a full blown crisis.

“Therefore, I want to use this opportunity to kindly look into the crisis and communicate to appropriate authorities in the area to help release our people from captivity and save their lives as many of those affected are from my domain,” Etteidung Ebong said.

However, Pastor Ekikere Umoh, the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Obong Moses Ekpo, the state’s Deputy Governor, whose office is in-charge of boundary matters, said: “the office of the Deputy Governor has no business with communal wars”.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Mr. Odiko Macdon, a Police Superintendent, could not respond to calls sent to his phone for his reaction on the matter.

WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

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NEWS

Osinbajo Averts Crisis in Abuja as Residents Protest Land Grab by Military Army legally acquired land in FCT, Buratai insists Iyobosa Uwugiaren in Abuja The Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, yesterday averted what would have been a violent protest by the indigenes of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) over alleged land grab by the military, when he alighted from his convoy to assuage protesters.

But in a swift reaction, the Nigerian Army insisted yesterday that it legally acquired its landed property in parts of the FCT, and advised the indigenes protesting to channel their complaints to the appropriate quarters.

Osinbajo who was headed to Ekiti State for official engagement, was said to have ran into the protesters who had barricaded the road.

He alighted from his car and had a chat with the protesting youths who began chanting his name as soon as they identified him.

The protesters comprising mainly of young men and some

women from Gbayi village, were said to be protesting at Gossa, over the alleged invasion of their land by the military, and urged the vice president to intervene in the issue.

Osinbajo later assured them that he would meet with the village leaders to find lasting solution to the problem at hand, urging the youth to seek more diplomatic ways of solving issues.

He assured them that President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration is dedicated to the people, adding that the dividend of democracy will be enjoyed by all.

The spokespersons of the protesters said if they had known that the vice President was going to ply the road they would not have acted in the manner, which they did.

Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai said that the military “legally acquired’’ its landed property He stated this in reaction to

the protest by some indigenes of FCT who barricaded the Air Port road, alleging that the army grabbed their land.

Buratai spoke at the foundation-laying ceremony for the construction of the “Army Command Estate and Headquarters, Directorate of Army Legal Services’’ at Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment at Giri on the Airport Road.

He said the protests would not yield any result.

The Army Chief added, “This particular estate (land) was granted to the Nigerian army in 1979. However, we got the official allocation with the Right of Occupancy (C of O) in 1997 by the Federal Capital Administration.

“In 2011, when all lands in the territory were revoked and owners of land were directed to re-certify their land, the Nigerian

Army along with other services, Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Air Force, duly applied for the re-certification.

“We paid the dues that was meant for the re-certification and got our acknowledgment. That is to say that we have legally and timely certified this particular land.’’

He said that all the documents of the land were with the Abuja Geographical Information Service (AGIS), of the FCT, adding that any move to disrupt the ongoing construction work on the land would be fruitless.

Buratai advised those alleging the army grabbed their land to channel their complaint to the appropriate quarters rather than protesting and barricading highways.

“They (protesters), should not allow themselves to be deceived

and take the laws into their hands,’’ he said.

THISDAY gathered that te construction of structures are already ongoing in the over 4,000 hectares of land to accommodate newly established Headquarters of Army Aviation Corps, Women Corps, Space Command, as well as officers and soldiers’ quarters.

Also located in the land is headquarters of the Nigerian Army’s Farms and Ranches Ltd. A coalition of FCT indigenous associations had recently accused the army of grabbing their land and protested to the National Assembly over the issue.

They had also protested to the office of the Minister of FCT, calling for his intervention, alleging that the army wanted to collect their land located at Zuba, Iddo, Sabo and Tuga Maje, all on Airport Road.

Buratai used the occasion to charge officers and men on the need to make sure the country was kept safe and secured, and continued support for the administration.

He reminded them of the strategic importance of the military in democratic dispensation, adding that they “must defend democracy.’’

The Army Chief further stated, “We are much, much better in democracy than any other system.

We must ensure that we perform our constitutional responsibilities with all the seriousness it deserves.

“We must all ensure that all our ongoing operations are stepped up.

The insecurity that we are facing in the North East and other parts of the country require more initiative and require us to think of the box to get the right solution,” he added.

Adeleke Arraigned, Gets N2m Bail in Fresh Certificate Forgery Charges Alex Enumah in Abuja A Magistrate’s Court in Mpape area of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has admitted the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2018 governorship election in Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke to bail in the sum of N2 million.

Adeleke was arraigned before the court on a five- count charge bordering on alleged false statement and forgery.

He pleaded not guilty to all the five-count charges read against him and his lawyer, Prince Adebiyi Adeyosoye, accordingly, moved an application for his bail.

Although the prosecution counsel opposed the application on the grounds that the defendant did not show evidence of his ill health , Justice Zubaru, in his ruling, held that he was mindful to grant the bail application.

As part of the conditions, the court ordered Adeleke to produce a surety in like sum, who must be a resident of the court’s jurisdiction.

Adeleke was on Monday detained by the police at its headquarters in Abuja, after he submitted himself for interrogation in line with an order of a Federal High Court, Abuja.

The police after its interrogation brought Adeleke to the Mpape Magistrate Court for arraignment on the allegations of forgery.

Earlier, when the suit marked: CR/26/19, was called, Adeleke’s lawyer, Adeyosoye, told the court that it would be impracticable for the court to proceed with the arraignment on the grounds that the defendant is already standing trial on the same charge in two different High Courts.

He submitted that going ahead with the arraignment would amount to abuse of court process.

Adeyosoye further told the court that Justice Inyang Ekwo

of the Federal High Court Abuja, who had on Friday, May 3, granted Adeleke permission to travel abroad for medical attention, ordered the police not to hinder Adeleke from embarking on his medical trip scheduled for yesterday.

The lawyer also presented before the court another order of a High Court in Osun State, which specifically ordered the police not to arrest or prevent Adeleke from traveling abroad for medical attention.

The two court orders were tendered and admitted in evidence as exhibit A and A1.

He, accordingly, urged the court to adjourned indefinitely, pending the hearing and determination of the two main suits.

Responding, the defence counsel , Simon Lough, opposed to the application for adjournment, on the grounds that the orders of the court on which the application was predicated did not say that the defedant cannot be arraigned.

Lough in addition informed the court that the complainant had already filed an appeal against the orders of Justice Ekwo of the Federal High Court.

He, therefore, urged the court to dismiss the application and order the defendant to take his plea.

Ruling on the application for adjournment, the Magistrate held that going by the hierarchy of courts, the Magistrate Court is bound by the orders of a High Court.

He further held that the court cannot stop the defendant from enjoying his fundamental rights as ordered by the High Courts.

However, Justice Zubaru declined to adjourn the matter indefinitely on the grounds that nowhere in the two orders of the two High Courts were the police ordered not to arraign the defendant.

RUBBING MINDS ON SECURITY...

L-R: Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu; President of the Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki; and Acting Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, during IG’s visit to the National Assembly in Abuja ...yesterday

Over 2,000 Ebonyi Indigenes Sacked in Cross River At least 2,000 indigenes of Izzi Local Government Area (LGA) of Ebonyi State who were resident in Ekajiok, Ogoja LGA of Cross River State have been sacked from the area.

The Ebonyi indigenes resident in the area are mainly traders.

Their houses and shops were allegedly set ablaze by the Ekajiok people.

The displaced persons include, men, women, pregnant women, nursing mothers, children and infants.

The people of Igbeagu community, Izzi LGA of Ebonyi State and their neighbouring Ukele Yala LGA of Cross River state have been at war over boundary matters with many killed and properties worth billions of naira destroyed.

On Friday, some people from Cross River State were said to have gone to Ebonyi State to mill their rice but two of them allegedly got missing.

Following this development, the

Ekajiok people allegedly attacked Izzi people living in their area, looting and destroying their properties.

Speaking to journalists at Cabinet Office Government House, Abakaliki where the Izzi displaced persons are currently camping, the Chairman of Izzi traders in Ekajiok, Agena Simon who spoke on behalf of the IDPs said he was in front of his shop on Friday when somebody came to him and told him what was happening.

“He asked me to close my shops first. Within five minutes, youths from Ekajiok in their numbers armed with various weapons came and broke my shops”.

“They looted everything in the shops; they went round the community and did same thing to all Ebonyi indigenes resident in the community” “We have lost all our livelihood and earnings; the shirt I am

wearing is the only thing that was saved from the attack. We are crying to our governor to come to our aid because we have nothing to feed our children and entire families we are dying of hunger.

“We have no problem with the Ekajiok people to warrant our attack and destruction of our properties. I contacted the traditional ruler of that community on phone when the incident occurred to know why the thing happened to us and he told me that two indigenes of the community who went to mill rice in Ebonyi got missing”.

On his part, Head of Department of Relief and Rehabilitation at Ebonyi State Emergency Management Agency, Prince Chibueze Iteshi who was compiling the names of the IDPs for possible government assistance said: “We got a report that Ebonyi indigenes living in Ekajiok in Ogoja LGA of Cross River State were attacked by the indigenes

of Ekajiok.

“The report we got from Ebonyi people in that Ekajiok is that some indigenes of that Ekajiok came to rice mill in Ebonyi State to mill their rice. Two of their indigenes got missing; they didn’t return”.

“On getting the information, the people of Ekajiok started attacking all Ebonyi indigenes living in that place. It was the aid of police from Ogoja Area Command and the Ohanaeze Ndigbo there that fought and ensured that they were safeguarded and brought back to Ebonyi State here.

“Currently, we are compiling the number of those displaced but we have men, women lactating, mothers, pregnant women, small children, infants in their midst.

“They came to this state today, immediately they came in SSG directed that SEMA should take action immediately,” he explained.

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COMMENT

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

RESTORING THE DIGNITY OF MAN (1) Sonnie Ekwowusi remembers the good old days at a UNN’s reunion

H

ow is it possible to find meaning in a world in which you are constantly told that the only way to be happy and make progress is to acquire enormous material wealth and constantly entertain yourself with the most sophisticated electronic gadgets? The answer to this question may be difficult considering that somehow we have all become prisoners of our epoch. Like trees, human beings have roots which tether them. However, it is characteristic of our human nature to rebel against the tethering roots to ensure that old principles do not lose acceptability. For instance, the little kids in my neigbourhood now converge every evening to play among themselves. Obviously they have plenty of video games, DSTV movies and music and other things that could occupy them in their respective homes. Yet the kids prefer converging in the evenings to laugh together, run together, jump together, shout together and sing together with their mates. You see, we are adrift in cosmos in search of meaning, forgetting that a man is ontologically worth his dignity, the values he cherishes and the services he renders to his fellow men. It is a self-flattening conceit to think that we deserve another world outside the world within us. That is why I think that my neigbourhood kids are the wisest kids I have ever encountered. They prefer to live in their own world where they could happily celebrate their intrinsic worth unmindful of the tragedies around them.

In the same vein, driven by the passion to celebrate their intrinsic worth in order to come to terms with the meaning of life, the University of Nigeria Law Class of 1986 (UNN Law Class 1986) organized a re-union in Enugu last weekend. The reunion was prompted by the motto of UNN: “To restore the dignity of man�. At UNN, dignity is perceived as the foundational value for human rights. Dignity is a sense of pride in oneself, not what one has. At UNN, dignity is rendering selfless services to others; understanding the meaning of human existence and living a quality life. To be a noble and excellent student worthy in character, worthy in learning, worthy in integrity is more valuable at UNN than all the material wealth in the world. At the UNN, there are opportunities to connect passions with purpose. And when passions find their purpose, man’s dignity is enhanced and the world can change for better. This conscious sense of dignity makes the UNN Law Class 1986 feel that it deserves a respectable place on mother earth to celebrate its intrinsic worth.

So, off to Enugu, the coal city, for the much-vaunted re-union. While some class boys and girls came from Ilorin, Aba, Owerri, Lagos, Abuja and so forth, others flew in from different parts of America and Europe. Of course, food and assorted drinks were plenty except that Deputy-Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, who hosted us at his house in his village, failed to supply the Obele-agu palm wine, which, in my humble view, is the best palm wine in the world. I can’t remember whether “ukwa� and isi-ewu delicacies were served also. How can you be feted in Igbo ancestral home without being served “ukwa� and isi-ewu delicacies with palm wine to wash them down? After restoring the dignity of man with abundant food and drinks our class boys and girls were brimming with smiles. I

AT UNN, DIGNITY IS RENDERING SELFLESS SERVICES TO OTHERS, UNDERSTANDING THE MEANING OF HUMAN EXISTENCE AND LIVING A QUALITY LIFE

don’t know whether the smiles came under the influence of alcohol or not. All we know is that they were overjoyed as they busied themselves taking different snap shots.

Anyway, you may be well aware that the UNN Law Faculty is situated at University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC). UNEC is regarded as the “only professional campus south of the Sahara�. Why? Because only professional courses such as Law, Medicine, Architecture, Estate Management, Quantity Survey, Accountancy and so forth are offered there. By the way, the UNN Law Faculty is the oldest law faculty in Nigeria. Our passage through the Law Faculty was a passage of the best and brightest. Flooding my memory now are the names of some of the brightest boys and girls: Muhyideen Adekoyejo Bello Esq., (a consummate wag). Till date, Bello still wears a boyish look. B.S.C Asogwa Esq., Ndiya Ukiwe Esq., Pauline Nwandu Esq., Toyin Oladipo Esq., Chijioke Dike Esq., (the best in penmanship), Edechime James Esq., (JCN), Benbella Anichebe (SAN), Emeka Maduwest Esq., Chief Mbanugo Udenze Esq., Deputy-Senate President Ike Ekweremadu (Ikeoha), John Duru Esq., Alhaji Abdul Azeez Chuba Ogbui Esq., (He converted to Islam at UNEC), Chinyere Ikpa Esq., Sonny Nwankwo Esq., (Charm Sonny), Ifi Achebe Iloani Esq., Peter Ntefe Esq., Chief Uzama Okpaleke Esq., Prof. R. A. C. E Achara, Okey Anoh Esq., Chidi Nwuke Esq., Ebele Iyayi Esq., Kerian Enechi Esq., ex-Deputy-Governor of Central Bank and presidential candidate of the Young Progressive Party (YPP), Prof.

Kingsley Moghalu OON , Nnenna Uko Esq., Franca Agbasi Esq., John Emefieh Esq., Cletus Ilegbune Esq., Jude David Mbamalu Esq., Justice Anthony Onovo, Honesty Anyanwu Esq., Okey Chukwuezi Esq., Hon. Tony Anyanwu (of the blessed memory), Paul Ezeobi Esq., Oliver Eze Esq., Dr. Theodore Okonkwo and others too numerous to mention here.

Pastor Chris Okotie was not our class mate: he was our contemporary at the Law Faculty. He was graduating in law when we were barely being admitted into the Faculty. He had a sportish-looking red car. Above all, he was a talented musician. He sang. I can’t remember now, but I think it was at the time he was graduating from the Law Faculty that he sang “Carolina in mind�, “I need Someone� and “Fine Mama�. Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (Gburugburu) was also our contemporary at UNEC. I remember him now. We were both at Manuwa Hall (the moi moi hall). I might have shared a room with him at some stage.

He was bright but rascally. He struggled to be among the Manuwa Hall Football team. Talking about Halls, there were only seven halls at UNEC at the time of our passage- Manuwa Hall, Ojukwu Hall, Adelabu Hall, Mariere Hall (for post-graduate students only), Mbonu Ojike Hall, Kenneth Dike Hall and Lady Ibiam Hall (Babylon), the only female hall.

Dubbed Babylon ostensibly owing to the cultivated scepticism about the sort of life that was lived at that hall at that time. Desperate male students do not visit Babylon in the afternoon. They visit at night when they were sure their faces would not be seen. Mbonu Ojike Hall (GH) and Kenneth Dike Hall (IJ) stood out for their great exploits in the game of football and also for “carrying bush meats�.

PARTY LOYALTY AND APC IN OYO

The party needs team players and leaders with listening ears, writes Semiu Babalola

I

ntense lobbying to fill the leadership vacuum created by the massive defeat suffered by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State is further tearing the state structure of the party apart. The pretentious unity among party stalwarts has eventually been exposed.

It is a sensitive phase for the state’s chapter of the APC, and if the delicate situation is not carefully managed, it will erode its gains in the last elections and plunge it into further crisis. This is not doomsday prophecy. It is the reality of what awaits a once fortunate party but bedevilled by high level of distrust and deceit amongst members. Just like the APC in Oyo State effectively prepared for its defeat at the 2019 polls in the build-up to the party’s primaries in 2018, unknowingly, the foundation for further defeat is already being dug.

Sometime last week, APC party chairmen at the local government level reportedly endorsed governorship candidate of the party, Adebayo Adelabu, as the state party leader.

These ‘cash and carry’ chairmen who deceived the ougoing Governor Abiola Ajimobi that all was well until the party was disgraced at the polls are back at their game. They are leading Adelabu on, and backing him for the lone ministerial slot for the state.

The kite would have been easier to fly if Adelabu’s nomination as the governorship candidate of the party followed the proper process. His nomination and eventual defeat opened another vista in the crises rocking the state chapter of APC. Considering the fact that Ibadan is the political nerve of the state and the only Senator-elect from the city, Teslim Folarin is a new entrant into APC that cannot be trusted enough as he may still be tied to the apron string of his first love, the PDP, appointing Adelabu as a minister automatically qualifies him to be the leader and the rallying point in the state.

Without mincing words, I make bold to suggest that such consideration is insincere. In fact, it is a

brazen affront against loyal party members who have worked tirelessly from the party’s formative stage.

The former CBN deputy governor cannot by any standard be considered as a loyal party member; rather his status in APC is that of a political opportunist who only took advantage of an unjust party arrangement to get his governorship nomination.

At what point did Adelabu become a bonafide member of the APC and what has been his contributions to the party before his quest to seek the governorship ticket? I’m sure that those familiar with happenings within the ruling party have provided the right answers to these questions. Therefore, those rooting for Adelabu as the next minister from Oyo State should watch their stand or watch the ‘House’ collapse.

Unfortunately, Governor Ajimobi, who, by every political standard is still the party’s leader is aging and cannot continue to occupy political offices at an advanced age of 69 years. Having served as deputy minority leader of the Senate (2007 – 201) and governor for two consecutive terms (2011 – 2019) Ajimobi reserves every right to remain the leader of APC in Oyo State.

Notwithstanding, as a record-breaking politician, it is best for the governor to leave the stage when the ovation is still loud. With his unrivaled experience, Ajimobi should devote more time to directly oversea party affairs, rather than rely on some untruthful politicians who would paint the picture of a shanty as an Eldorado to curry favours.

It is time for the governor to take full charge of party structures like a political Field Marshall and ensure that all that APC has lost is regained.

APC in Oyo State is indeed too central and sensitive to the party’s future in the South-West zone and as such cannot be left in the hands of leaders who lack the requisite capacities.

While it is essential to shop for the minister-

designate from Ibadan, quite sadly, Adelabu and a few other accidental politicians like him who now position themselves for this opportunity are not equal to the task.

Yet, these day-dreamers are poised to snatch the ministerial slot by parading themselves as party leaders, while in reality some of them cannot even be traced to the grassroots structure of the APC. The likes of Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, who was Ajimobi’s preferred governorship aspirant, Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), who also aspired for the party’s nomination as governorship candidate and others who have intensified lobby for the Abuja plum job cannot by any standard be described as recognised party men who can withstand the heat when the chips are down.

No doubt, the duo of Tegbe and Akintola are technocrats cum professionals in their own right and they are not new to the corridors of power. Yet they are not well schooled in the political craftsmanship required to mend fences within the party. Hence, they may need to stay committed for some more time and earn loyalty of party members.

As these political hawks hover around trying to reap where they did not sow and amidst the attendant uncertainty about the fate of Oyo State APC, there is a dedicated party loyalist who is youthful, vibrant and committed to the party, in the person of Hon. Saheed Akinade-Fijabi.

Besides Ajimobi and the current Minister of Telecommunications, Alhaji Adebayo Shittu, who is from the Oke-Ogun area, Fijabi is one of the very few foundation members of the APC from its formative stage, who is still in the party. He has demonstrated utmost loyalty to the party ideals through thick and thin.

For his part, Shittu, despite his political disadvantage and age factor, scored an own goal when he publicly declared not to support the party’s governorship candidate during the election.

But the second-term federal lawmaker, Fijabi, on his own supported all the party’s candidates despite his defeat at the National Assembly election.

He has committed enormous resources to the party both at the state and national levels and showed more commitment with his energy and resources to the party, when compared to some of the gatecrashers who only came to hunt for gubernatorial ticket.

Perhaps, the embarrassment suffered by APC in Oyo State would have been worse if the likes of Fijabi, Senator representing Oyo North, Fatai Buhari, Hon. Segun Odebunmi, Hon. Akeem Adeyemi and Hon. Olajide Olatunbosun had joined other serving lawmakers who defected to a splinter party, the ADC. It is essential to note that Senator Buhari, Fijabi and others who stood by the APC were not certain of their nomination at the primaries, yet they took the risk and eventually fought for their tickets.

Coincidentally, Fijabi is the only serving APC National Assembly member who didn’t join the breakaway faction of the APC to ADC, yet he lost his re-election bid. No thanks to the internal squabbles within the APC. It is however unjust to ignore such a dedicated party faithful who has continued to support the party at all levels even after election defeat.

Understandably, due to his youthfulness and rising political stature, Fijabi will attract many opposition out of envy, yet he ranks amongst the most veritable tools to resuscitate the ailing party in Oyo State.

APC in Oyo State must move beyond bending to political autocracy, the party doesn’t need a powerful individual who will suppress the will of others.

Rather it needs team players, leaders with listening ears, who will respect and accommodate diverse interests.

Alhaji Babalola wrote from Ibadan

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T H I S D AY WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2019

EDITORIAL The Gombe Easter Killing Security agencies should investigate the killings

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he nine slain members of the Boys’ Brigade were laid to rest on April 27 after a funeral service was conducted in their honour at the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Centre in Gombe, the state capital. The Christian youths, aged between 11 and 21 and two others, were killed when a car deliberately rammed into their procession at night within the metropolis, ahead of the last Easter Monday celebrations. Some 30 others sustained various degrees of injuries. “We call on the Christian community in Gombe to take the situation in good faith and follow the right channel in seeking redress,” said the North East CAN chairman, Rev. Abare Kala.

“We are aware of the pain this sad event has caused, but let’s be calm and allow the leadership to handle the matter.”

While we commiserate with the families of the dead, we strongly condemn this latest unwarranted violence against ONE NIGERIAN LIFE innocent children.

UNJUSTLY LOST IN THE This development MANNER OF THESE does not bode well RECENT INCIDENTS especially at this critical time when the DIMINISHES ALL OF US nation is experiencAND CORRODES THE FABRIC OF OUR SOCIETY ing serious security challenges. The killing has unnecessarily heightened tension and fear in the city and indeed led to clashes between groups, reportedly leading to more killings, and prompting the government to impose curfew for some days on the metropolis and surrounding communities.

The Gombe tragedy became particularly worrying given reports that the driver of the vehicle, said to be a staff of the National Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), was fully conscious of his vicious act. He allegedly turned off the headlights of his vehicle before ramming the car into the crowd of Christian merrymakers. Even if we decry the resort to self-help and mob action which led to the death of the officer who

Letters to the Editor

committed the act, we challenge the security agencies to thoroughly investigate what exactly happened.

The incident is a pointer to a worrying tendency that does not augur well for the unity of the nation.

The brazen manner in which human lives are being taken, especially by sundry terror lone wolves, is unacceptable. This is against the background that a good number of these casual killings were carried out by persons or groups brandishing sectarian credentials.

From the hundreds that were mowed down in Zaria by the military in the recent past to the more isolated killings of individuals in Kano, Abuja and now Gombe, there would seem to be a contest about who can take more lives between agents of state and the growing army of casual fundamentalist executioners.

T T H I S DAY EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI DEPUTY EDITOR DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE

T H I S DAY N E W S PA P E R S L I M I T E D EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS BOLAJI ADEBIYI, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS PATRICK EIMIUHI, SAHEED ADEYEMO CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

he casual execution of fellow citizens for the simple reason that they believe differently is the beginning of something more frightening.

As we have stated in this space, we must all remember that televised public beheadings by global terror merchants, of perceived adversaries, began this way. In a nation swarming with all manner of militant groups, we might be headed for that day when some fundamentalist crack heads could just round up people of a different faith and routinely execute them in utter defiance of the state which has repeatedly proved ineffectual in protecting lives and basic freedoms.

This aspect is quite worrisome because the state, even with all its imperfections, remains the ultimate guarantor of our individual and collective freedoms.

If, by act of omission or commission, it fails to act as that guarantor, then anarchy is the clear and present danger. At a time like this therefore, we need to emphasise the point that one Nigerian life unjustly lost in the manner of these recent incidents diminishes all of us and corrodes the fabric of our society. That is the only way we can reaffirm and reinforce faith in our suddenly fragile unity. The security agencies must ensure everything is done to prevent another bloodbath at another front.

TO OUR READERS Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (9501000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive.com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer.

LAGOS AND THE REVITALISATION OF AYINKE HOUSE

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here are edifices that hold profound admiration of people either by virtue of their iconic status or their value to human aspirations. These edifices exist with stories on how they transcend to become an accomplice of peoples fortune.

In Lagos, one of those memorial structures that have garnered people’s affection over the years is Ayinke House.

Ayinke House is a multispecialty medical centre managed by the state government to provide comprehensive maternal services and professional training for medical students and resident doctors in the state.

This maternal and child centre donated by the late Sir Mobolaji Bank Anthony and named after his mother at the premises of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, is a fortress for pre-and post-natal services and women’s reproductive health care as well as the bedrock of obstetric practices nationwide. The centre was a regular birthplace for many residents that hardly could one finds a Lagos home without a child being delivered in the house. It became so symbolic that many Lagosians unknowingly refer to the whole LASUTH complex as Ayinke House.

Following critical inquisition and strategic engagement to resuscitating the enduring project, the present administration began its reconstruction in 2016, while pledging to make it a landmark project with sufficient apparatus that would dispense first class services to citizens. The sight of the reconvened contractor enthralled the citizens as they were eager to enjoy qualitative healthcare which the centre is incipiently known for.

An insightful diagnoses of the project will leave no one in doubt that Lagos State government put a lot of commitment and resources

to ensuring the facility lacks nothing for optimal service delivery and to be ranked alongside maternal and teaching hospitals in other parts of the world. The centre which originally has 80-bed capacity has now been expanded to 170 with medical facilities to behold. The entrails of this new super ultra-modern hospital is adorned with standard equipment that includes 30 incubators - all with oxygen delivery system capability, neonatal life support, five operating theatres and oxygen plants as well as a special space for challenged newborn requiring intensive care. This facility for intensive care can effectively deliver and support pre-organ treatment with a capacity of 16 beds and very high-dependency unit that incorporates a theatre to attend to emergencies.

By completely digitalizing its operation with the state-of-the-art medical equipment and high-level information technology services, this foremost tertiary medical institution represents a major prospect in the country`s quest to be self-reliant in maternal and child health. While it presents a veritable avenue to connect global partners in the pursuit of synergetic management of women and child lifecycle, it is also an opportunity to mobilize domestic resources in solving emerging health infractions.

In order to allay the probable fear of workforce deficiency, the government has approved the intake of qualified medical personnel across board even before the completion of the facility as doctors, nurses, midwives, surgeons and other specialized staff have been incorporated into the operations.

Furthermore, the house which for years has been the nucleus of the teaching hospital in the training of medical students both at the

undergraduate level and at the residency level for doctors can now optimally provide a highly specialized system of training, particularly in the field of obstetrics, gynecology and other allied fields like family medicine. Thus, the capacity of LASUTH Postgraduate Medical College’s as a high ranking medical institution in the world has been elevated. On the strength of its technical and human capability, the teaching institution is now an arable terrain for medical practitioners to embark on conventional biomedical and clinical research towards expanding the knowledge of reproductive health and sharing the discoveries worldwide to improve medical outcome.

Its candor towards emitting comparative policies and programmes put the state government at the frontier of good governance in the country. With an established effective health policies fashioned to advance equitable access to medical system and technologies, the city can now engage the future with hope and confidence. Since the health institution serves as the mechanical and social thread that binds the society to the realm of development and being an inevitable contingent of the smart city desire, the government remains perpetually faithful to meet the physical and emotional demands of its populace.

More importantly, effective use of resources to improve multiple health services is pivotal to meeting the sustainable development goals.

Thus, as the federal and other states government revel in the admiration of this impactful project, they are encouraged to exemplify this brand of salutary investment to achieve the universal health coverage for women and children.

Kehinde Akinfenwa, Lagos State Ministry of Information and Strategy, Alausa, Ikeja

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T H I S D AY ˾ WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͷ˜ Ͱͮͯͷ

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T H I S D AY ˾ WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019

MIDWEEKPOLITICS

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG Email nseobong.okonekong@thisdaylive.com 08114495324 SMS ONLY

NEWSMAKER

Hands Up in the Air Nseobong Okon-Ekong writes that Governor Abdul’Aziz Yari of Zamfara State has been carrying on like one throwing darts in the dark; totally confused and admitting that he cannot do anything to make the worsening situation in his state better

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T H I S D AY ˾WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019

ANALYSIS

Painful Interruption to Bayelsa Lawmakers

Emmanuel Addeh writes that the controversy surrounding the proposed Pensions Law for Bayelsa lawmakers may have been laid to rest, but the dust raised by the incident lingers

Dickson

Benson

James

Akpe

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members of the state House of Assembly.

At a meeting with journalists along with eight civil society groups in the state, at the NUJ Press Centre in Yenagoa, the elders vowed to carry out a protest in the state capital to demonstrate their disapproval for the bill if the governor didn’t decline assent.

Chairman, Media Committee of Embasara Foundation, Dr. Ayakeme Whisky, disclosed that the assembly members erred when they failed to conduct a public hearing to get input of the people, as it was customary.

“Under Nigeria’s constitution, pension is the exclusive preserve of civil servants, not political office holders.

“This new dimension to law making in a state where successive administrations have failed to settle years of backlog of pension and gratuity to genuine pensioners and mostly senior citizens, is unacceptable.

“Government has shown a clear lack of respect to the civil service as a vital institution, an erosion of moral values and a disturbing sense of entitlement amongst political officers. The people of Bayelsa state will not accept that.

“That is why we join countless citizens from Bayelsa state to urge Governor Seriake Dickson to side with the people and decline assent to the bill, which is a bad piece of attempted legislation passed with indecent haste and revealing secrecy,” the group said.

The All Progressives Congress (APC), Bayelsa State kicked against the bill which was spearheaded by leader of the house, Peter Akpe.

Akpe had argued that the bill, when assented to, will provide reasonable financial security for the beneficiaries and shield them from economic uncertainty in the future.

According to him, those qualified to benefit from the bill must be indigenes of the state who have served in the state as well as in the old Rivers State for a minimum period of two years.

Publicity Secretary of the Bayelsa APC, Mr. Doifie Buokoribo, said the proposed law was not only ungodly and self-serving, but wicked in a state regarded as one of the most impoverished in the country.

“The party has also observed how the strange idea, which was proposed as a bill and passed by the house on Wednesday, has set the public pulse racing. APC Bayelsa completely rejects this life pension bill for members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly,” the party said.

APC said it was unsympathetic for members of the House of Assembly to seek to enhance their own lives at the expense of the vast majority of Bayelsa people living in pain and penury.

Buokoribo described the life pension bill as an unspeakable crime against the people.

He added, “Regarding this latest move by the House of Assembly, we again say that the idea is avaricious, wicked, and insensitive.

By proposing such a law, the lawmakers have merely portrayed themselves as a people who feel no concern for the feelings of their suffering constituents.

“APC advises the legislature to withdraw the obnoxious pension bill and avoid the appalling crime against the people of Bayelsa State.”

The anti-corruption advocacy group, SocioEconomic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), was not left out of the cacophony of voices mounting to stop the bill.

SERAP urged Dickson not to give assent to a bill proposing life pension for the principal officers of the state House of Assembly.

SERAP Deputy Director, Kolawole Oludare, said the proposed life pensions for the lawmakers was an abuse of office.

The organisation warned that it would take the governor to court should he give assent to the bill.

“The lawmakers are clearly the major beneficiaries under the proposed legislation.

Therefore, by passing the life pension bill, the lawmakers of Bayelsa State House of Assembly have violated the constitutional and international prohibitions on conflicts of interest,” the group added.

Chairman of the state’s Civil Liberty Organisation (CLO), Nengi James, was not left out of the fray as he insisted that the bill was against the collective wish of the people.

He described it as draconian and murderous, boasting that it will be resisted not only through public protest but through intellectual discourse and other means possible.”

Also, the former secretary of the CLO, Morris Alagoa, said a protest was necessary to tell the government that all was not well with the bill.

It was only a matter of time before the governor bulged, given the outcry against the bill and the devaluation of the PDP government’s political capital in the state, against the backdrop that it will face a major election in about six months.

As tension continued to build and screaming headlines appeared in the newspapers daily, the governor summoned the lawmakers to his country home in Toru-Orua, Sagbama.

There was only one agenda on the table: how to douse the looming tension.

In the end, Dickson declined assent to the bill. He did not only describe it as illegal, but he ended up being the hero of the entire saga.

In a letter to the Friday Kombowei-led Assembly, Dickson explained that he refused to sign the bill into law because it was inconsistent with Section 124 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.

He said that he was of the view that the State Assembly lacked the powers to expand the categories of public servants who should be entitled to pension.

He stressed that he had to withhold assent to the bill because the state which was bedevilled with a lot of challenges in spite of its low Internally Generated Revenue base and unstable earnings from the oil economy was the only state out of Nigeria’s 36 states to come up with such a bill.

The governor maintained that his decision was guided by the principle that government should not be for a select class of the

privileged in the society.

“The provisions of this bill granting pension to members of Bayelsa State House of Assembly and the extension of same to former members of the Assembly and Bayelsa indigenes who served in the old Rivers State House of Assembly, is inconsistent with Section 124 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended.

“I am not convinced about the legality of this bill which seeks to expand the categories of persons entitled to pension. While I agree that the Assembly can adjust the quantum of pension payable to persons entitled to pension, I am not convinced that the House has powers to add to the categories of pensionable public officers.

“Evidently, there is no record of any other state in this country that has expanded the categories of pensionable public officers to include lawmakers. I do not agree that Bayelsa which is coping with all the myriads of issues and challenges, with our low Internally Generated Revenue base and the unpredictable oil economy, should be the first to initiate this.

“Honourable members of this Assembly, Bayelsans and other Nigerians following our progress as a government would clearly attest to the fact that my entire public service, actions and decisions are marked by what is in the public interest, particularly the interest of the vulnerable, ordinary people.

“It is my philosophy that government should not be for a select few. In the last seven years, my actions and decisions which have sometimes elicited opposition from the elite who have been feeding fat on the resources of our state, have been marked by this singular disposition of mine.

“And I do not intend at this point to abandon that. Rather I intend to do more and to consolidate on the policies and actions which have been taken to protect the vulnerable. Therefore, I am unable to assent to this bill which in my view aims to expand and consolidate the class interest of a privileged few,” he said.

But beyond the sections of the bill which had become problematic, there are emerging arguments that the existing law which also included benefits for the governor and his deputy outside government should be reviewed totally, to tone down the benefits accruing to the number one and number two citizens of the state.

Nestor Binabo, a former Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, urged the governor to halt the ongoing payment of monthly pensions for former governors and their deputies in the state.

Binabo, who commended Dickson for mustering the political will to withdraw his assent on the controversial pension bill for state lawmakers, said the governor’s action would be complete if he stopped ongoing pensions for his predecessors.

onversations on the Pensions Law for Bayelsa lawmakers by the state House of Assembly, continues because it was a novel case and an action that did not meet the country’s basest standards.

How a group of 24 elected representatives, without a thought for the implication of their action, sat down to pass a bill which will entitle them to a pension for life, remains a subject for the present and the generation of unborn Bayelsans.

There was no public hearing; no form of consultation with their constituencies. The action was taken in absolute disregard for the feelings of the people they represent.

However, the resolution met with stiff opposition. The consensus was that there was no justification for such a huge additional financial burden on a state whose socioeconomic indices are not flattering.

For example, in the just released figures from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Bayelsa ranked third among its peers in terms of unemployment with about 32.6 percent.

Yet, weeks after, there has been no statement from the house as to how they intended to boost employment by the quality of peopleoriented laws to remedy the situation.

The brouhaha over what many regard as the latest indiscretion by the lawmakers who the state is still struggling to pay a loan of over N3 billion which they approved to buy cars for themselves, brought the different strata of state together in complete condemnation of what observers say was a self-serving law.

For the first time in a long while, the young and the old in the state, were in agreement that the law would not only further impoverish the people, but would substantially jeopardise the struggling economy of the state for generations to come.

At first sight, the law seemed considerate and reasonable given the amounts listed, but a closer look at the proposed retroactive law included the payment of pension to lawmakers, from the old Rivers state (out of which Bayelsa was created), current ones and future lawmakers.

With each of the lawmakers meant to earn N100,000, principal officers N200,000 and the Speaker entitled to N500,000 and stretching from over 20 years when the state was created, it is believed that the state would have been expending billions of Naira to care for legislators who served roughly between two and 12 years, as spelt out by the proposed law.

When condemnation of the proposal started pouring in came, the lawmakers had to beat a retreat.

Elders from different divides spoke with one voice: that a state yearning for development, could not afford to shoulder unnecessary expenses, not only in the short term, but for life.

Coming under a non-partisan group, ‘Embasara Foundation’, the elders rejected the proposed law and advised Governor Seriake Dickson to decline assent to the controversial bill passed into law by the

NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

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FEATURES

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, 08152252325

Examining the Realities of Press Freedom The UN General Assembly declared May 3 of every year as World Press Freedom Day. To mark this year's event, the United States Consulate in Lagos examined the realities of press freedom and how the media landscape impacts the mission of today’s journalists, Chiemelie Ezeobi reports

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early, the World Press Freedom Day is commemorated on May 3. The day which was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993, was based on the recommendation of UNESCO. According to Wikipedia, the UN declared the day to raise awareness of the importance of freedom of the press and remind governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression enshrined under Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights and marking the anniversary of the Windhoek Declaration, a statement of free press principles put together by African newspaper journalists in Windhoek in 1991.

To mark this year’s day, the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Consulate General Lagos, partnered the School of Media and Communications, Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos, to offer broadcast training, engage with the local media, and interact with journalism faculty and students.

Goals of US Mission Highlighting the goal of the US Mission, the US Consulate Public Affairs Officer, Russell Brooks reiterated that it is to promote democracy and strengthen democratic institutions here in Nigeria and around the world.

Noting that it was important to utilise the World Press Freedom Day to honour colleagues in the media and know what they were doing to uphold democracy, he said: “A free and responsible press is part of promoting democracy and the media represents the fourth estate of any democracy. We are all familiar with the executive, judiciary and legislative branch therefore, it is crucial that the media plays a significant role in holding the other three branches accountable�.

While urging journalists to double check their sources of information before publishing stories in other to avoid promoting fake news, he also charged the government to do more to protect journalists from harm’s way.

Keynote Address Dealing on ‘Are we really Free? How the Media Landscape Impacts the Mission of Today's Journalist’, the Assistant Professor Howard University Department of Media, Journalism and Film, Jennifer C Thomas, in her keynote address first acknowledged the Dean, Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya, Professor Emevwo Biakolo, the faculty, colleagues in the journalism field and especially the students at the event.

While commending Mr. Russell Brooks and team, for making her stay memorable being her first time in Nigeria, she likened the hustle and bustle of Lagos to New York.

The Nigerian cuisine got a favourable mention too as she described it as delicious.

In her speech, she went on to say that when she first received the email and then the call from the U.S. State Department about the invitation by the US Consulate in Lagos, “I must say I was surprised. I recognise that there could be so many other capable people who could be standing behind this lectern this morning, but for some reason you chose me, and for this I say thank you. “And after my initial shock and excitement wore off, and the reality of this notable occasion sunk in, I realised this was not a happenstance.

According to UNESCO, on average, every ďŹ ve days a journalist is killed for bringing information to the public. These attacks are often perpetrated in non-conict situations by organised crime groups, militia, security personnel, and even local police. That makes local journalists among the most vulnerable

A cross section of participants at the recently held World Press Freedom Day in Lagos

Assistant Professor Howard University Department of Media, Journalism and Film, Jennifer C Thomas Today is World Press Freedom Day- which was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in1993, following the recommendation of UNESCO. The date of May 3 was selected for World Press Freedom Day because it is the anniversary of the Declaration of Windhoek, Namibia. “Namibia is the first country in Africa I visited three years ago during an academic research conference. While there I was able to visit the beautifully designed national museum which pays homage to the small yet vigilant country’spath towards freedom. And today we ask “ARE WE REALLY FREE� – today’s media landscape with convergence and new technology, the impact of organisations’ needs to satisfy the bottom line, and the resurgence of disinformation campaigns targeted at the press around the world and the dangers facing those who are protecting the public’s right to know.. all cause one to pause and consider that question. “However I would ascertain that from Lagos to Los Angeles the journalist is needed now more than ever. We begin with a quote by Audrey Azoulay, DirectorGeneral of UNESCO, “Press freedom is the cornerstone of democratic societies. All states, all nations are strengthened by information, debate and the exchange of opinions. At a time of growing discourse of mistrust and delegitimisation of the press and journalism, it is essential that we guarantee freedom of opinion through the free exchange of ideas

U.S. Consulate Public Aairs OďŹƒcer, Mr. Russell Brooks

and information based on factual truths. The theme of this 26th media celebration is ‘Media for democracy: Journalism and elections in times of disinformation’.�

Addressing Disinformation According to her, disinformation or what many around the world dub as “fake news� and the subsequent demonising of the media, have created a political and pedagogical poser for not just members of the media, but for professors who are tasked with teaching would-be millennial journalists.

She noted that the current climate for the news industry is synonymous to a thunderstorm, with the convection being the calamity of the “Fourth Estate� as “Fake News.� Add the unpredictability of social media, and it becomes the perfect storm.

In order to quell this tempest, she posited that journalists must ride out the storm and steady the ship through adhering to the fundamental principles of the profession. In turn, journalism professors were tasked to be vigilant at teaching media history, literacy, and ethics while underscoring excitement for the profession.

Threats Admitting that it is a daunting, yet surmountable task, she added, “but even before a discussion of journalists quelling the storm against disinformation, we cannot ignore the dire situation facing journalists

in Africa and other continents around the world. Journalism is under attack and in unfortunately too many instances that is literal-- journalists themselves are under attack. “According to UNESCO, on average, every five days a journalist is killed for bringing information to the public. These attacks are often perpetrated in non-conflict situations by organised crime groups, militia, security personnel, and even local police. That makes local journalists among the most vulnerable.

The report also says these attacks include murder, abductions, harassment, intimidation, illegal arrest, and arbitrary detention. “While these types of attacked are not common in America- this is not breaking news here. While in Lagos I’ve had the pleasure of meeting 25 or so working journalists on the local, as well as national levels.. from Punch newspaper, Channels TVand TVC to CNN, AFP and the Associated Press. From this group, at least four of them shared with me incidents of detention and intimidation.

While the incidents shook them, each one returned to the job, to continue their work.�

Action Plan The United Nations has a Plan of Action to combat crimes against the press which addresses six areas: academic research; standard-setting and policy making; awarenessraising; monitoring and reporting; capacity building; and coalition building.

This complex crisis is one of the focal

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FEATURES points being addressed during official World Press Freedom Day events in Addis Ababa Ethiopia.. with this year’s recognition being organised by UNESCO, the African Union Commission and the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

Several global journalism organisations have online safety kits for journalists who cover stories in dangerous territory. This was a focal point for a virtual conversation I had last year with 30 investigative journalists in the DRC‌ as well as during my visit all across South Africa for Media Freedom Week last October. It is a complex situation that creates a complicated conundrum for journalists who must at times decide between their stories, or their personal safety.

The American Situation Using America as a case in point she said the nation is in unheralded territory. “In the U.S., journalists have been coined as the “enemy of the people� and arbitrators of “fake news.� While the relationship between the president in the press has traditionally been a “frosty one,� the recent verbal attacks have led to increased incidents of intimidation and sometimes even violence against journalists by citizens. “In fact, Black female journalists have been blatantly disrespected just for doing their fundamental role- as defenders of democracy and freedom fighters of the First Amendment.

One of these journalists, Abby Philip, was a panelist at a forumat Howard University sponsored by the Howard University Association of Black Journalists- which took place before the most recent events. During this session, in which the journalists shared their experiences of covering the White House, Philip underscored her commitment to doing her job with integrity, while trying to block out the other “noise� from the naysayers. “Let me be clear-- journalists are not the enemy of the people; we are the advocates for the people. Yet the constant barrage of the term “fake news� is apparently having an impact on the public’s perception of the industry,� she noted.

The attack on the press seems to be yielding fruit as buttressed by the 2017 survey by the Pew Research Center, which shows Americans have only moderate trust in most news sources. Quoting Former deputy secretary of state for the Obama administration, Antony Blinken, who says that, quote, “In times of crisis, credibility is an American president’s most valuable currency�, Thomas said in this regard, some may say that America’s currency is worthless, but the press’ role is more priceless than ever.

Smart Journalists Therefore, she said as media professionals, they must put a renewed effort at being a ‘Smart Journalist’ in the Era of “Fake News.

She added, “When I conduct media workshops, I begin with an exercise that asks the participants to complete the following sentence: I regard the media as‌.The choices are: fair and balanced journalists; vulchers; fake news; and people with jobs in the industry.

In every case, I receive responses for each choice except-- ‘fair and balanced journalists’. “Last year on World Press Freedom Day, I was honored to take part in a virtual panel at the studios of the U.S. Departmentof State in Washington. That panel was focused on ways in which people can detect “Fake news.�

My basic advice: be skeptical, consider the source, check the URL, look at the byline and quotes, review the photo. Be acurious journalist- question everything. “ Fact-checking In this era of fake news, fact-checking is key, a move which is firmly supported by Thomas. “Today there are websites dedicated to separating fact from fiction and even for quizzing readers to see how savvy they are at detecting such information. At Howard we have a site called Truth Be Told that dispels tropes and stereotypes about people of color.

Even with these measures in place, we know that a tweet can become world headlines before a spellcheck is even conducted and a rant on a blog post may be repeated as a lead story on a newscast, without the news outlet doing its due diligence. “The need for focused fact-checking and balance in telling both sides of the story, and doing so with great accuracy, is more important now than ever before- especially for journalists. A surprising fact- when it comes to identifying fake news, millennials know better.

In a Pew study, 1/3 of 18- to 49-year-olds (32 per cent)!correctly identified all five of the factual statements in the survey as factual, compared with two-in-ten among those ages 50 and older. The study says the younger generation is more digitally savvy, less political, have higher political awareness and more trust in the information from the national news media,� Thomas revealed.

Journalism at its Core On the need to enlighten the future crop

Some of the students of School of Media and Communications, Pan Atlantic University

Dean, Dr. Ikechukwu Obiaya (far right), Assistant Professor Thomas (third right), Mr. Russell Brooks (ďŹ fth right), and others at the World of journalists on why journalism was first referred to as the Fourth Estate, Thomas said each semester, her senior capstone students take a trip a few miles away from campus to the museum dedicated to the news and journalists: the Newseum.

She revealed that “the visit becomes a culmination of the objectives they have learned during their matriculation through the Department of Media, Journalism and Film (MJFC)—from the impact of the First Amendment, to how many journalists defended those freedoms with their lives. “The exhibit, “Civil Rights at 50� was one such exhibit. The students discuss how they may have covered the now-historic events as student journalists, or whether they would have participated as student leaders 50 years ago. They also view a video on the role of the black press, and then put into context the quote by Civil Rights icon, U.S. Representative John Lewis: “If it not been for the press, the [Civil Rights] movement would have been like a bird without wings.�

Let me be clear, journalists are not the enemy of the people; we are the advocates for the people. Yet the constant barrage of the term “fake news� is apparently having an impact on the public’s perception of the industry

After the tour, the students are assigned to write multimedia blogs on their ePortfolios encapsulating their experiences. “When journalism students leave the university they should understand why journalism is so deeply woven into the fabric of this county and the world, and they should be compelled to tell the stories of those whose voices might otherwise not be heard. There is a reason that journalism was first referred to as the Fourth Estate.

We are to hold the government accountable and keep the public aptly informed. Despite the challenges, naysayers, and name-callers, journalism students should be excited to add their names to the noble profession when embarking on their careers.�

Personal Experience Sharing her personal experience in the line of duty she said, “When I first graduated from Howard University and started my first job in television news two weeks later- I had no idea of the experiences I would have and the stories I would cover that would impact so many. Please allow me to share a few: first newsroom Job- at a local news affiliate in Alabama- It was to be my first day producing when the city was struck by a terrible tornado- Instead of building the rundown for the newscast, I was calling the morgue. “Second newsroom job- Gulf War/ Operation Desert Shield- it was the first time experiencing a war for my generation. I took on the role of reporter to get reaction from locals to the news. Third job- was one of the most difficult personally- I was working at a stationed operated and owned by ABC News.

Three sports journalists- and the pilot- all took off in helicopter to cover “Friday night football� – when their helicopter crashed. The accident killed three of the four. All were engaged to be married. One survived and ran for miles on a broken ankle to get help.

We still had to do the story. “When with NBC- (NBC Nightside overnight newscast) I had the opportunity to cover the one year Oklahoma City Bombing- anniversary and speak to the firefighters and

familiesinvolved in that terrible act of domestic terrorism. I was touched to receive thank you cards. Then of course CNN- started off as a sunny “slowâ€? news day‌ I was the 9am show producer so had been there since 3am. All was going as planned, when all of a sudden we heard what sounded like thunder coming down from the stairs. There were colleagues and managers who were in the morning editorial meeting; running downstairs to the newsroom to tell us a plane had struck one of the World Trade Center towers. I grabbed my headset and our news team ran into the control room.. and as they say – the rest is history. “These are just some of the thousands of stories that underscored quote: Journalists are the first rough draft of history (Philip L. Graham). I am at the core a Midwest, southern girl who loved to write, ask a lot of questions, speak up to what I felt was wrong, and generally a good leader. What I didn’t realise is that even from a small child, I had the makings of a journalist.

Today, after working for more than 25 years been blessed to return to my alma mater Howard University and hopefully change the trajectories of my students as they transition from classroom to newsroom or control room, while underscoring a phrase I penned a few years ago: Journalists are the defenders of democracy – freedom fighters of the First Amendment and Savvy and sophisticated storytellers.�

Charge In closing, she charged the students at the hall to read everything – be prepared, professional and most importantly passionate.

Those in academia were not left out. To them she charged to provide much needed research, stay committed to their vital role at producing the next generation of responsible and ethical reporters, producers, editors and multi-media journalists. She also charged journalists to continue to fight the good fight, ride out the turbulent waves because a new day is dawning, and someone has to steer the ship! “Journalism is a calling. Today let’s collectively renew the calling�, she enthused.

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WEDNESDAY, ΀˜ ͺ͸͚Π˞ T H I S D AY

FOUR–YEAR REPORT CARD OF TEAM BUHARI: (2015 – 2019) PART 4

Shittu: Endless Pursuit of White Elephant ICT Projects Minister of Communications, Mr. Adebayo Shittu, has spent his tenure pursuing white elephant projects, reports Emma Okonji

Shittu

T

he Minister of Communications, Mr. Adebayo Shittu, a lawyer by profession, is one minister in the first tenure of President Muhammadu Buhari still grappling to make a mark in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector.

Shittu is clearly a man that wishes to create impact in the ICT industry and in the last four years he has been struggling to do so, with lots of criticisms surrounding his ideas.

First was the idea to establish ICT universities in some selected states across Nigeria, which received condemnation on the ground that all Nigerian universities have computer science departments.

Of course the project did not fly after members of the National Assembly questioned the usefulness of the gigantic project that was expected to gulp billions of naira.

Again the minister in January this year came up with another plan to build a National ICT Park in Abuja, which he said was expected to attract real investment opportunities for the country if properly harnessed.

The establishment of the park according to Shittu, would be an avenue for the training of ICT talents in line with global digital transformation agenda, and would further facilitate digital capacity building for immediate employment, entrepreneurial skills development, job and wealth creation, designed to promote digital economy in an era of disruptive technology through effective regulations.

Shittu, however said the initiative would be

supported by private investors, some of whom he said, had already indicated their interests to invest in the National ICT Park, which is expected to open up investment opportunities for the Nigerian economy.

But even as attractive as the project may have sounded, industry stakeholders did not believe that the project will see the light of the day, because of its complexities and the huge capital requirement.

What the minister failed to realise in his almost four years at the helm of the ministry is the need to support start-ups in the sector and make them competitive in a manner that would raise the sector’s contribution to the national Gross Domestic Product and position them firms for global patronage.

Nigeria has lots of start-ups that are begging for the right sponsorship to grow their businesses, but the government is looking elsewhere.

The priority of the Ministry of Communications in the last four years would have been to create an enabling environment for such firms to thrive.

The previous administration had developed several ICT hubs around the country. One of them was the Idea Hub located in Yaba, Lagos.

But today, the Idea Hub and other similar ICT hubs have gone into extinction because of the unwillingness of government to maintain the hubs that were supposed to nurture technology start-ups to levels of maturity.

Most ICT hubs that exist in the country today were developed through private initiatives and the bottom line is to make money out of the business.

Nigeria therefore needs governmentsponsored ICT hubs and the minister should have been focused on driving such initiatives instead of pursuing gigantic projects that would later turn out to be white elephant projects.

Industry stakeholders are of the view that government must begin to look at investment in ICT infrastructure, instead of leaving it in the hands of private sector players like the telecoms operators.

For instance, Nigeria does not have a national backbone infrastructure that would transmit broadband capacities from the shores of the country to the hinterlands, where the services are needed the most, a situation that has led to high cost of bandwidth in the country, thus limiting the number of persons and organisations who have need for internet access to participate in online business that is currently sweeping across the globe.

Nigeria has about five sub-marine cable companies like MainOne, Glo 1 and MTN WASC that berthed their sub-marine broadband cables at the shores of the country, and the country does not have a national backbone infrastructure to transmit the broadband capacities from the shores of the country to the hinterlands. The ugly situation forced Globacom to begin the process of building its Glo 11 broadband infrastructure that will provide broadband access and internet connectivity to Niger Delta region and the rural communities.

Industry stakeholders are of the view that the minister in almost four years, failed to look inwards and did not embark on ICT projects which were of benefit to Nigerians.

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Ě• Ë? ̥ͺ͸͚ͽ Ě• ͺ͸͚Π̢ Íź

Sirika: High Performance on Safety, Challenged on Airport Infrastructure Chinedu Eze Ă?Ă˘Ă‹Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂ?ĂœĂ?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ă‹Ă˜Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă“Ă˜Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ?Ăœ Ă™Ă? ÞËÞĂ? Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă Ă“Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ëœ Ă‹ĂŽĂ“ Ă“ĂœĂ“Ă•Ă‹Ëœ Ă?Ă‹ĂŁĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă’Ă? Ă’Ă‹Ă? Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽĂ?ĂœĂšĂ?ĂœĂ?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ Ă?ÚÓÞĂ? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă’Ă“Ă‘Ă’ Ă?âÚĂ?Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă“Ă˜ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă?ĂžĂœĂŁ Ă?ÞËÕĂ?ÒÙÖÎĂ?ĂœĂ?

Sirika

he Minister of State for Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, raised the hope of industry stakeholders few months after his appointments, when he addressed them and singled out four key goals he aimed to accomplish by the end of this administration.

That was his first stakeholders’ meeting.

Expectations were high because many of the stakeholders believed that being an aviator who was active in the sector, he knew the problems and how he would go about solving them.

It was at that meeting that he announced that the Buhari administration would establish a national carrier, build maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), facility, known as national maintenance hanger, establish a leasing company and also concession major airports in the country to enhance the private sector to contribute in the infrastructure development of the industry.

Unfortunately, with less than one month to the end of President Muhammadu Buhari’s first term, none of these was accomplished.

For instance, effort to establish a national carrier ended in naught, as the federal government announced indefinite suspension of the project in September last year.

Without any of the planned project successfully executed, the aviation industry remains in the doldrums.

Today, Nigerian carriers still carry out their major checks overseas, the airports still suffer from obsolete infrastructure, foreign airlines still dominate the airlifting of Nigerian passengers to international destinations because existing indigenous carriers are yet to have the capacity. In addition, there is no

national carrier yet to compete with foreign airlines, which repatriate about $2 billion annually as capital flight.

Although these major projects were not accomplished by the sector under Sirika, some progress were recorded in the last four years.

For instance, under the management of Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Aero Contractors, which was almost moribund in 2016 was rebounded when the agency appointed a new Chief Executive Officer in the person of Captain Ado Sanusi and the company revved up and developed its maintenance facility that today it conducts C-check on Boeing B737 Classics in addition to small body aircraft like Bombardier Q300, Q400 and others. Today the facility maintenance aircraft for Nigerian airlines, Ghanaian airlines recently signed agreement to maintain aircraft for operators in the Congo Democratic Republic.

In 2018, Air Peace, an indigenous airline made history when it signed an agreement with Boeing for the acquisition of 10 brand new Boeing 737 MAX aircraft and in April this year, the airline signed a $2.1 billion (N756.5 billion) agreement with Brazilian aircraft manufacturer, for the purchase of 30 Embraer 195-E2 jets.

In the area of airport infrastructure, the president last year inaugurated the newly- built 15 million passenger-capacity terminal at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (NAIA), with an assurance that the government was committed to developing Nigeria into a regional air transportation hub, to enable it assume its leadership position in the aviation sub-sector in Africa. Earlier last year, the President unveiled the newly completed international terminal of the Port Harcourt

International Airport, Omagwa and there are indications that before the end of the third quarter of this year the international terminals at the Lagos and Kano airports would be unveiled.

Under the Buhari administration, Nigeria has maintained a very good safety recorded that since 2015 there has not been any accident involving commercial airliner in Nigeria.

Industry stakeholders believe the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority of Nigeria (NCAA) has done so much in the industry in the last four years, but because it does not make noise, not many know the significant achievements the regulatory authority has recorded.

Former Director of Engineering and COO of Medview Airline, Lukeman Anumaseun, said NCAA is highly efficient and remarked that while it keeps the airlines on their toes, it has not followed its mandate to the letter because if it does, no airline would continue to exist in Nigeria.

One of the major achievements of Sirika in the aviation industry in the last four years was the payment of pension for the ex-Nigeria Airways workers. After several years of clamour, the federal government in 2018 paid the former workers of the defunct national carrier their remaining pension.

For the President, Air Transport Senior Staff Services Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Mr. Illitrus Ahmadu, so far the industry holds promise, even as he and expressed hope that government would do more in the next four years.

But many industry players have become sceptical because their past optimism was deflated by the low performance of the minister in the sector.

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FOUR–YEAR REPORT CARD OF TEAM BUHARI: (2015 – 2019) PART 4

Adewole: Battles Low Budgetary Allocations Inspite of THISDAY’s Advocacy Iyobosa Uwugiaren and Kingsley Nwezeh write that in spite of THISDAY’s advocacy, Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, battled low budgetary allocations in the last four years

W

ith consistent low budgetary allocation to Ministry of Health in the past four years, the Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole, and the Minister of State, Dr Osagie Ehinare, have battled insufficiency of budgetary allocations, leaving funding gaps.

But they have been persistent in the pursuit of policy initiatives and reforms.

THISDAY, the nation’s leading newspaper of record, as part of its corporate social responsibility efforts to help Nigeria focus on the challenges of financing its health sector and finding sustainable solutions to them, held several policy dialogues last year, with technical support from The World Bank.

The huge interest/concern by the participants, including some critical segments of the international community, could be seen in the finding of the Chief of Health, Nutrition and Population of The World Bank, Dr. Benjamin Loevinsohn, who said that Nigeria spends less on healthcare than almost any other country in the world, resulting in poor Nigerians paying out-of-pocket for their health. He noted that most poor Nigerians were unable to afford adequate healthcare.

But, in spite of the yearly low budgetary allocation, THISDAY’s findings revealed that the Ministry of Health boasts of some commendable achievements in terms of policy initiatives and reforms in the health sector in the past four years. As one of the most critical sectors in the country, the sector requires, at any given time, the full attention of government.

Since 2001 when Nigeria hosted African Union leaders, where a resolution to dedicate 15 percent of member-states’ annual budget to the health sector was reached, successive Nigerian health ministers have had no choice but to work with what is allocated to the ministry.

Since the Abuja Declaration, the highest percentage made in that direction was 5.95 percent in 2012. In President Mohammadu Buhari’s 2018 budget proposal, N340.45 billion representing 3.9 percent of the N8.6 trillion was allocated to the health ministry. As a professor of Gynaecology and former Vice Chancellor of University of Ibadan, Professor Isaac Adewole, and the Minister of State for Health, Dr Osagie Ehinare, have been strong on implementation of policy initiatives.

Although some of the policies preceded the Buhari Administration, they saw to its logical conclusion.

Development partners notably, the World Bank, the World Health Organisation, Department for International Development, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation among others, have made significant contributions in a bid to mitigate disease burdens and meet universal health care projections and targets.

Professor Adewole said recently that apart from the money added in the 2018 budget, the ministry had received about $22 million to fund the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF). “The Department for International Development (DFID) is also putting 50 million pounds over the next five years� he added As part of the National Health Act and a fundamental funding provision under the Act, the Basic Healthcare Provision Fund (BHCPF), provides one percent of the consolidated revenue for health funding. For the first time since the passage of the National Health Act in 2014, N55 billion was earmarked by the National Assembly as stipulated by the Act in 2018 budget. Six states are to benefit from the initial roll out. They include Osun, Abia, Niger, Yobe, Borno and Edo. The federal government recently flagged off the enrolment of clients under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) in Oshogbo, Osun State.

The event which was held at the Primary Health Care Centre, Isale-Agbara, Osogbo, is a key component of the National Health Act, which aims at extending

Adewole Primary Healthcare (PHC) to all Nigerians by substantially increasing the level of financial resources to PHC services.

Speaking at the Launch, the Minister of Health said that the BHCPF programme, also known as Huwe was a signature programme of President Muhammadu Buhari's Administration.

With prolonged leadership crisis at the National Health Insurance Scheme and the poor national coverage of the NHIS scheme -- since inception, and the passage of the National Health Insurance Amendment Bill by the National Assembly, it is expected that challenges facing the scheme would now be laid to rest.

This came as a result of a combined efforts of the ministers, Senator Lanre Tejuosho and Hon. Muhammad Usman, who heads the Senate and House Committees on Health. Though yet to be assented to by the President, the Bill is believed to have significantly resolved some lingering issues. Some health sector players, however, insist that there were still some grey areas.

On the Universal Health Coverage, Professor Adewole, believes that more funding from government would engender quality healthcare with a view to achieving the coverage. “For us to accelerate progress on Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Federal and State Governments would need to invest more significantly in health.

"Because of limited government and pooled health financing, health spending was dominated by out-ofpocket (OOP) expenditures. As a result, OOP spending accounts for about 75% of total health expenditure – among the highest in the world – and 25% of households spend more than 10% of their household consumption on health, sign that more people were prone to poverty traps if they fall ill. “According to the latest National Health Accounts, 67%, 26%, and 7% of government health spending took place at the Federal, State, and Local levels respectively in 2016, as a result, PHCs frequently lack

basic amenities, equipment, and drugs which are severely undermining service delivery and efforts to improve health outcomes�, he said at a recent event.

In spite of efforts at funding the health sector, disease burdens remain high. Nigeria still accounts for a significant percentage of the global malaria burden.

According to the World Malaria Report, Nigeria still accounts for 25% of the global malaria burden. Nigeria also accounts for 19% of deaths from malaria.

"Though funding for malaria control has remained relatively stable since 2010, we need to improve on the level of our investment to achieve a reduction of at least 40% in malaria case incidence and mortality rates globally by 2020', Adewole said in a recent interview.

The figures are not very far in relation to other diseases such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis et cetera in terms of disease burden, funding and distance from eradication.

According to the 2017 Global TB Report, Nigeria is among the 14 high burden countries for TB, TB/HIV and MDR-TB. The country is also ranked 7th among the 30 high TB burden countries and 1st in Africa.

Nigeria was among the 10 countries that account for 64 percent of the global gap in TB case finding in 2017.

India, Indonesia and Nigeria account for almost half of the total gap. The National Strategic Plan, NSP, on tuberculosis, said recently that Nigeria requires $336m to address TB challenges by 2020. But, a breakdown of the funding for the disease in Nigeria so far, shows that $31m (9%) has been provided domestically, and $90m (27%) has been raised through international donors; leaving a $215m (64%) funding gap.

With low budgetary allocation, the performance of the ministers would only be viewed from the funds available and the judicious application; but critics are quick to argue that development partners make significant contributions to the funding of health programmes in Nigeria, pointing to the state of teaching hospitals and federal medical centres, as signs of poor management. Overall, it is an above average performance.

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T H I S D AY ˾ WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019

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BUSINESSWORLD

Group Business Editor Obinna Chima Email obinna.chima@thisdaylive.com 08024557078, 08152447875

Ͳ Ëœ Í° ÍŽ ÍŻ ͡ MONEY MARKET OVERNIGHT OBB

REPO 5.93 % 5.29%

CALL 1-MONTH 3-MONTH

6.50% 9.00 % 9.75%

S & P INDEX INDEX LEVEL 1-DAY MONTH-TO-DATE

͹͜;˛ͯ͹ϹϹ ͎˛͎͜Ϲ 0.11%

S & P INDEX 1/4 TO DATE YEAR TO DATE

0.14% ͜˛Ͳͳ%

EXCHANGE RATE N306.95/1US DOLLAR* ĚŠ

Quick Takes Renmoney Wins Fintech Award

Renmoneyhasdisclosedthatitrecentlywontheawardfor‘Innovation in Lending’ at the 2019 edition of the Nigerian Fintech Awards. The award ceremony held in Lagos.The theme of the 2019 edition of the LagosFintechWeekwas‘Fintech:ExploringtheHugeOpportunities’.

The event featured various panel sessions with big players in the Nigerian ďŹ ntech space. Renmoney’s CEO, Oluwatobi Boshoro, who was on the Lendtech Leaders Panel at the conference said: “The award is an aďŹƒrmation of Renmoney’s eorts to continuously seek innovativewaysofservingitscustomers.OneofRenmoney’svaluesis innovationandthatiswhyweleverageontechnologyincreativeways to ensure we continually meet the expectations of our customers. “This award is a testament to the creative and innovative work that everyone on the Renmoney team is doing to ensure that our customers are well served.â€?

Also, Renmoney’s Chief Decision Scientist, Dumebi Okwechime, was also present at the conference as the moderator for the ‘Big Data’ panel session. The panelists explored how big data can play an essential role in the evolution of ďŹ ntech. Renmoney is a ďŹ ntech lending company operating under a microďŹ nance banking license in Lagos, Nigeria. The company provides loans to individuals and small businesses via its website, contact centre, agent network and branches. Renmoney also oers market leading rates on Fixed Deposits and Savings accounts and is regulated by the CBN and insured by the NDIC.

CELEBRATING FINTECHS

L-R:Founder/CEO,OpenVector,CarlosFigueredo;ManagingDirector/CEO,eMaginationsPR,SolaFanawopo;DeputyGovernor,CentralBankofNigeria(CBN), Ade Shonubi; Chairman, Lagos Fintech Week, Dr. Yele Okeremi; Managing Director/CEO, Chams, Femi Williams and Pre-sales Consultant, Middle East and Africa,BPC,EmmanuelObinne,attheOpenBankingMasterClassoftheLagosFintechWeekinLagos‌recently ETOP UKUTT

Firms Urged to Tap Equity Funds to Reduce Financing Cost Stories by Goddy Egene Stakeholders in capital market have urged companies to embrace equity capital raising to fund their operations, in order to reduce financing costs and increase returns to shareholders.

Listed companies have access to raising funds from the capital market through offering of new shares (equity) or issuing bonds (debt capital).

Equity fund raising is relatively cheaper as the cost is below 10 per cent, the cost of debt raising is above 10 per cent.

However, due to low demand for equities, most companies have resorted to debt capital raising.

But findings have shown that few companies that raised additional funds through equities

ECONOMY capital, through rights issues, recorded reduced financing cost.

Owing to this, some investors have called on more companies to embrace raising funds from the equities market. “The equities market is yet to fully recover from the 2008 and 2009 down turn as most investors, who witnessed heavy losses are yet to return to the market. “For this reason the market has not been recording many equity offerings over the years. But it is very advisable that companies go for equity capital which is cheaper than debt capital,� a stockbroker said.

Also speaking, a shareholder,

Mr. Moses Igbrude, said most of the companies are scared of poor response from investors, hence they are not coming to issue fresh shares to raise cheaper funds.

According to him, irrespective of investor apathy, companies that have good track records in terms of financial performance, can still succeed in raising equity funds from shareholders. “It is cheaper and more preferable for us shareholders if companies raise equity funds.

That equity capital will reduce the reliance of companies on bank loans and debt capital which are relatively costlier. “When equity capital is injected either via rights issue or public offering of shares, it reduces the cost of financing and

enhances shareholders’ value,�

Igbrude said.

He explained that companies such as Unilever Nigeria Plc, Guinness Nigeria Plc, UAC of Nigeria Plc, Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc, among others that raised equities in 2017 and 2018 have witnessed significant reduction in cost of finance afterwards.

For instance, Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc raised N40 billion last year and its finance cost reduced by 34 per cent to N16.5 billion in the nine months ended December 31, 2019, from N25.2 billion of the same period the previous year.

Guinness Nigeria Plc witnessed a decline of 54 per cent to N3.443 billion for the year ended June 30, Continued on page 24

Experts: 2019 Budget Unsupportive of Economic Growth As Nigerians continue to relish last week’s passage of the 2019 Appropriation Bill into law by the Senate, some financial analysts have said the budget may not support the growth of economy as expected.

The Senate had passed the budget last week after increasing it by N86 billion to N8.9 trillion, from the initial N8.8trillion the federal government had proposed to spend in 2019,while the projected revenue at N7 trillion and all budget assumptions were retained by the law makers.

But analysing the budget, analysts at Afrinvest (West Africa) noted that beyond unrealistic

ECONOMY revenue estimates, their biggest worry was the federal government’s spending plans, which they said reflected lack of fiscal discipline and was unsupportive of growth.

According them, spending to gross domestic product (GDP) was weak at 6.4 per cent, while capital expenditure was still below recommended levels. “In 2019, total recurrent expenditure is projected at N6.9 trillion, crowding out capital spending which is 30 per cent of total spending. The

recurrent expenditure is split between non-debt and debt at 67.4 per cent and 32.6 per cent respectively. “An estimated 63 per cent of non-debt recurrent expenditure is to be spent on FG’s payroll, which is likely to rapidly expand by 2020 when adjustments are made to reflect the recently passed minimum wage of N30,000 per month. Considering our estimated revenue of N4.1 trillion in 2019, projected debt servicing is elevated at 54.9 per cent of revenue. “Finally, the total recurrent expenditure to our 2019 revenue estimate is 168.3 per cent, sug-

gesting that FG’s fiscal position is untenable. While the FG projects fiscal deficit at N1.9 trillion or 1.4 per cent of GDP, our estimates of N4.8 trillion and 3.4 per cent respectively shows that this is likely to be worse than expected,� they said.

The analysts added that petroleum subsidies remain a drain on the limited resources.

According to them, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), about $2 billion was spent on “cost under-recovery� or petrol subsidies in 2018.� “Our estimate of $2.6 billion

Kari, Others Now NCRIB Fellows

The Commissioner for Insurance, Alhaji Mohammed Kari and the Governor of Osun State, Mr. Gboyega Oyetola, were among the 17 dignitaries recently admitted into the Society of Fellows of the Nigeria Council of Registered Insurance Brokers ( NCRIB).

Others included NCRIB Vice President and Honourary Treasurer, Rotimi Edu and Mrs. Ekeoma Ezeibe respectively.

Astatementfromthecouncil,saidadmissionofthe 17newmembers bringsthetotalnumberto94members.Accordingtothestatement, the Society of Fellows, is the committee of all fellows of the council, including some notable net worth individuals in the country and overseas. It said the admission was ratiďŹ ed at the board meeting of the NCRIB council held in Lagos, after the successful candidates scaled the hurdle for admission as stated in Section 6 Subsection 4a oftheNCRIBActNo.21of2003.ThestatementsaidNCRIBPresident, Mr.SholaTinubu,duringtheadmissionceremony,saidthenewFellows would be required to demonstrate high level of professionalism and assist in taking the broking profession to higher heights. He urged the new members to see their new status as opportunity to shun unethical practice and uphold the tenets of the profession at all time. A former Deputy Governor of Central Bank, Dr Tunde Lemo delivered the Fellows Day’s lecture titled, “After Fellowship, What Nextâ€?.

TinubuinhisaddressexplainedthatthechoiceofLemowasinformed by the impeccable image and reputation he has earned for himself, both within and outside the shores of Nigeria as an economist.

S’Sudan, S’Africa Seal Oil Deal

SouthSudanandSouthAfricaonMondaysignedasix-yearproductionsharingagreementforanuntappedexplorationblockintheEastAfrican country, where production has been hit by civil war.The Exploration Production Sharing Agreement for Block B2 was signed by Ezekiel LolGatkuoth,SouthSudan’sMinisterofPetroleumandJeRadebe, SouthAfrica’sMinisterofEnergy,aReutersreporterattheceremony said. Radebe said the South Africans had committed $50 million for exploration. South Africa was also interested in building a pipeline and reďŹ nery, he said, bringing their total projected investment to $1 billion, according to memorandum of understanding signed in November. Block B2 was once part of a 120,000 square kilometre area known as Block B, which was divided into three licences in 2012 and is thought to be rich in hydrocarbons although very little drilling has been done there. The block lies in greater Jonglei State. South Sudanbecametheworld’syoungestcountryafteritsplitfromSudan in 2011. It has one of the largest reserves of crude in sub-Saharan Africa, only a third of which have been explored.

“Today, Nigeria currently spends about $4 billion annually on imported textiles and readymade clothing. With a projected population of over 190 million Nigerians, the needs of the domestic market are huge and varied, with immense prospects for growth of the domestic textile industries�

CBN Governor,

Godwin EmeďŹ ele Continued on page 24

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FIRMS URGED TO TAP EQUITY FUNDS TO REDUCE FINANCING COST 2018, from N7.527 billion in 2017, following a rights issue of N39 billion the previous year.

Instead of embracing equities capital raising, some companies have developed more interest for commercial paper(CP). Nigerian Breweries Plc last month accessed the market N15 billion in the first and second series of its N100 billion commercial paper to support its short term funding. The series 1 which is for 90 days has an effect yield of 11.59 per cent and will mature on July 22, 2019. On the other hand, the Series 2, which is for 182 days, has an effective yield of 14.43 per cent. It will mature on October 22, 2019.

Similarly, Flour Mills of Nigeria, which had raised equity of N40 billion last year, in February raised N6 billion in the sixth series of its N100 billion Commercial Paper(CP) programme to support its short-term funding needs.

EXPERTS: 2019 BUDGET UNSUPPORTIVE OF ECONOMIC GROWTH and $4.4 billion at the official and I&E window exchange rates respectively suggest that the spending on subsidy is significantly more than estimated. The implication is that government revenues are weaker with subsidies, thus restricting spending on more productive areas of the economy. “The lack of sufficient investment in human capital is one area of concern. The FG continues to under invest in health and education, further indicated by the allocation to the respective ministries at N50.2 billion and N47.3 billion in 2019, despite significant underperformance in human capital development indicators. “With a removal of petrol subsidies, and taking the 52.7 per cent revenue sharing formula into consideration, we estimate the FG could access from N321.5 billion to N707.2 billion in more revenues,� they said. Beyond the passage of the 2019 Appropriation Bill into law by the National Assembly, some economists and operators had, in separate interviews with THISDAY, called for strict implementation of the budget.

Group Business Editor

Obinna Chima

Capital Market Editor

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AgriBusiness/Industry Editor

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Comms/e-Business Editor

Ă—Ă—Ă‹ Ă•Ă™Ă˜Ă”Ă“ Senior Correspondent

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Ă’Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂŽĂ&#x; äĂ? (Aviation) ĂœĂ™Ă—Ă™Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă? ĂŒĂ“Ă™ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă˜ (Maritime) Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ă? Ă—Ă?ÔÙ (Finance) ĂŒĂ?ĂœĂ? åÙÔÓ (Insurance) Ă’Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă—Ă? Ă•Ă‹Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ě™(Energy) Reporters

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NIRSAL Educates 851 on Structured, Mechanised Farming in Ogun James Emejo in Abuja Determined to encourage a shift from the practise of subsistence farming in parts of Ogun State, the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) has introduced about 851 maize, rice and cassava farmers financeable geo-cooperatives for participation in the 2019 wet season farming under the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP).

The communities which benefitted from the intervention included Ewekoro, Yewa North, and Ogun Waterside Local Government Areas of the state.

The ABP is an agricultural input loan scheme of the CBN in which smallholder farmers receive single-digit interest rate loans in the form of inputs and pay back with portions of their produce.

As a participating financial institution in the programme, NIRSAL administers the ABP on behalf of the apex bank.

NIRSAL commenced the distribution of inputs to the farmers in the presence of several dignitaries at a ceremony held in the premises of the Ogun State Agricultural Development Project Office.

Head of NIRSAL’s Project Monitoring, Reporting and Remediation Office (PMRO) in the state, Mrs. Jumoke Ilo, said the institution was committed

to addressing the challenges of smallholder farmers in the state, using its end-to-end approach to agricultural projects which spans the pre-upstream, upstream, midstream and downstream segments of the agricultural value chain.

She added that, through the ABP, NIRSAL was addressing problems of access to finance and markets, structuring, low technical know-how and other challenges facing smallholder farmers in the state.

In a statement by Head,

Corporate Communications, NIRSAL, Anne Ihugba, she said, “This was the reason NIRSAL has organised farmers into geo-cooperatives, provided them with finance components & training, and will further link them with off-takers.�

Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ogun State Ministry of Agriculture, Mrs. Abosede Olaseni Ogunleye, was pleased that NIRSAL’s intervention was in line with the state government’s third cardinal programme of

increased agricultural production, leading to industrialisation.

She noted that industrialisation, “can only be achieved by supplanting subsistence farming with mechanised agriculture.

The era of using cutlasses and hoes should gradually give way to the use of motorized ploughs and harrows.�

Also, the Alaye of Ayetoro, Oba Abdulazeez Ishola Adelakun, who was in attendance at the event, expressed gratitude to NIRSAL for including his kingdom in the ABP interven-

tion.

He was confident that the development would bring widespread economic growth to the state and South-West region as a whole.

The Alaye of Ayetoro further noted that, “farmers have been facing challenges relating to finance, access to quality inputs and dishonest middlemen. With this intervention, coupled with support from the state government, Ogun farmers will finally experience relief and massive prosperity.�

MEDIA BRIEFING

L-R: Executive Secretary, Pension Operators Association (PenOp), Susan Oranye; Treasurer, Chinedu Ekeocha; Vice President, Akeeb Akinola; President, Aderonke Adedeji; Head, Technical Committee, Dapo Akisanya and Head, Legal and Regulatory Committee, Dr. Hamza Wuro- Bokki at a media briefing organisedbyPenOpinLagos‌recently

Shukla: Why Olam is Acquiring Dangote Flour Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Olam Group has revealed that its move to acquire 100 per cent stake in Dangote Flour was part of its continued expansion drive.

The agri-business company which equally acquired Crown Flour Mill in 2010, stressed that its plan was to become number one in the industry.

Managing Director of the Olam Group, Mr. Anurag Shukla, disclosed this in Abuja, during the 2018 Crown Flour Mill and Gala night.

He said, “We are here to celebrate our annual awards, basically we call all our mega dealers all over Nigeria so that they can discuss with each other.

We listen to their problems; we try to come up with solutions. “We also use this occasion to interact with them and also tell us what are the new things which are happening in the company.�

On the company’s expansion drive, he added: “We have submitted a binding offer to acquire 100 per cent stake in Dangote Flour Mills, that is another consideration right now. “We planned to expand our operation since 2010, we started by acquiring Crown Flour Mill and we are happy that we have been growing our business. We firmly believe that in Nigeria this is one business that really create the maximum employment possibly.�

Shukla, also revealed that despite Olam’s expansion drive and the acquiring of Dangote flour that the company was not targeting its product for export, adding that Nigeria is huge market already with the population of 200 million people.

According to him, “We are solely manufacturing all our flour and paster and selling in Nigeria alone and we intend to keep doing it. Because there is 15 percent additional duty in the Nigeria bid, that makes us slightly uncompetitive when it is compared to other Mills in the West Africa and Central Africa regions. “But our target is basically to sell all our product in Nigeria

and that’s a big enough market.�

The managing director advised foreign companies not to be scared of coming to Nigeria to do business, saying, “I think Nigeria is the place where the action is, Nigeria is a place where there are 200 million people, there is so much if business potential, people should not be scared.�

On his part, the Chairman, Association Master Bakers and Caterers Association of Nigeria, FCT Chapter, Mr. Isiaq Abduraheem, appealed to flour millers to reduce the price of flour to ease the burden on bakers in the country.

He said that the high cost of flour has negatively impacted on the productivity and profit-

ability of bread business, adding that bakers now buy a bag of flour for between N10, 200 and N11, 300.

He said this was the same price it was sold when the naira was exchanged for N500 per dollar.

Isiaq stated: “We appeal to millers to adjust the price of flour to reflect the present exchange rate of the naira to the dollar. Now that the naira has appreciated against the dollar at N353 to the dollar, we expect flour millers to reduce the price of a bag of flour from its present price. “The price ought to be between N9, 500 and N10, 000 as against the current price of N10, 200 to N11, 200.�

FGTakes Ministry Building Off National Grid Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The federal government has sealed a deal with Proserve Energy Services Limited, to build, operate and maintain a 750 kilowatts (kW) capacity solar power system at the headquarters of the Ministry of Power, Works and Housing in Abuja.

The 10-year concession deal was part of the tripartite agreement documents recently signed by the Power Ministry, Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (Disco), which would be allowed

to take excess power from the solar facility to its network, and the concessionaire, Messrs Proserve Energy. The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mr. Louis Edozien, while presenting the power purchase and concession agreements for the project to the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) in Abuja, said that the project was a pilot scheme. He said the government would replicate same in its buildings housing its Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). “It is my pleasure to mark the

landmark we have achieved by handing over this documents to ICRC to be the custodian and regulator for the transaction,� said Edozien.

He commended the ministry’s team and other stakeholders who worked towards ensuring a competitive procurement for the project, and from which Proserve emerged the preferred bidder for the contract.

On his part, the Managing Director of Proserve, Dr. Abbah Ibrahim, assured of the company’s commitment to deliver quality electricity service with the

project. Ibrahim, explained that the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) partner for the project in Germany has assured its readiness to deliver in six months of reaching the financial close. He added that his firm was ready to handle the financial, construction and operational risks involved.

According to him: “For the operational risks, we have a South African firm. We have actually identified these risks.

I am honoured and privileged to be part of this journey.�

Similarly, the Director General

of ICRC, Mr. Chidi Izuwah, said it was a milestone for the Commission, especially as the project got to commercial close.

Izuwah, explained that after the financial close, the project would hit the ground running.

Represented by an official of the ICRC, Onwodi Emmanuel, Izuwah stated that the hybrid solar power plant would deliver 750kW energy at day time and 75kW during the night time.

He added that Abuja Disco has agreed to take the excess power from the plant into the grid for use in its network.

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Oil Firm Begins Works on 25kbd Modular Refinery Chineme Okafor in Abuja Waltersmith Petroman Oil Limited, operator of Ibigwe field located in Oil Mining Lease (OML) 16, has indicated it is already working on the development of an additional 25,000 barrel a day (bd) modular refinery few months after it commenced work on a 5,000bd modular refinery.

In October 2018, Waltersmith performed the ground-breaking ceremony of its 5,000bd modular refinery. But in a statement, the firm stated that it has commenced development work to add 25,000bd refining capacity to this. The statement noted the company’s long term strategy was anchored on delivery of its targets by 2026, which include achieving 100,000bpd crude oil and condensate production; processing 500 million standard feet per day (mmscfd) of gas primarily as fuel for power and installing and supplying 1000 megawatts (MW) of electricity,

including renewables, amongst others.

The company also reiterated its commitment to the safety of its staff, host communities and their environment. It explained that it has a stringent safety regime in place to bring the risk of any accident associated with oil and gas operations down to the absolute minimum and or prevent major incidents that could result in multiple fatalities or injuries, or loss of infrastructure critical to the economy, According to the statement, the company highlighted this during its 2019 health, safety and environment (HSE) week, with the theme ‘safety- my responsibility. “As a company, we are committed to full implementation of our safety policies. We will support all staff/support staff and contractors in taking time to work safely. We will address every safety concern promptly,� said the Chief Executive Officer

of Waltersmith Petroman, Abdulrazaq Isa. He further explained: “If you stop a job for safety reasons, we will back you up. If there is an incidence, we will fully investigate and share the lessons learnt to prevent re–occurrence.

We will recognise any staff that reports the highest number of near misses.�

According to the statement, the HSE week came about from 2011 when the company had a blowout incident on a drilling project. It added that no life was lost but six people sustained injuries and while monies were lost. “We have learnt that accidents are caused by human or equipment failure in one form or another. We have also learnt that all accidents are preventable, subsequently we have safely drilled six wells from the lessons learnt,� Isa said, adding that in March 2019, Waltersmith clocked two million-man hours without lost time incidence (LTI).

FCCPC, SEC to Review Mergers James Emejo in Abuja In order to ensure continuing and seamless commercial transactions and market operations, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the Federal Competition & Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) formerly Consumer Protection Council (CPC) have come to a mutual understanding with respect to review all mergers and other business combinations or arrangements.

The move is to ensure that such combinations don’t distort the markets. This followed the January 30, 2019, signing into law of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2019 by President Muhammadu Buhari which created the the FCCPC to replace CPC. One of the key mandates of FCCPC is to review all mergers and other business combinations or arrangements to ensure that such combinations do not distort or impede the markets, a function hitherto

performed by SEC. However, in a joint statement JTTVFE CZ UIF %JSFDUPS (FOFSBM PG FCCPC, Mr. Babatunde Irukera BOE %JSFDUPS (FOFSBM PG 4&$ Mrs. Mary Uduk, the duo stated: “The FCCPA discontinued the role of SEC in this regard and mandates the FCCPC to set, gazette and publish thresholds applicable to all mergers and combinations, whether small, medium or large. This is without prejudice to the powers of SEC to determine the fairness of transactions involving public companies. “The FCCPC has commenced this process. However, there were notifications pending before SEC at the time of the enactment of the FCCPA. Further, other business combinations requiring notifications continue to occur.�

It, however, noted that, “In order to ensure continuing and seamless commercial transactions and market operations, SEC and FCCPC have come to a mutual understanding with respect to these transactions within the transition period, which pursuant to this notice commences imme-

diately, and shall remain in force until otherwise discontinued by GVSUIFS "EWJTPSZ PS (VJEBODF u The duo further stated that during transition period effective May 3, 2019, “All notifications or fillings will be reviewed under existing SEC Regulations, (VJEFMJOFT BOE 'FFT “Notifications will be filed at FCCPC: 17 Nile Street, Maitama, OR SEC/FCCPC Interim Joint .FSHFS 3FWJFX %FTL BU 4&$ Tower, Plot 271, Samuel Asesujo Ademulegun Street, Central #VTJOFTT %JTUSJDU '$5 "CVKB OR SEC/FCCPC Interim Joint .FSHFS 3FWJFX %FTL BU 4&$ 0GĂ DF 3, Idejo Street, Opposite ICON House, Off Adeola Odeku Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. “All applicable fees will be paid to the FCCPC. SEC and FCCPC will jointly review notifications and FCCPC will convey decisions with respect to the notifications. “Notifications previously received by SEC, but yet to be decided, will be subject to the interim process above and FCCPC will convey the decisions accordingly.â€?

Hollandia Excites Consumers The recent introduction of Hollandia Evaporated Milk’s 120g pack size affectionately referred to as “Pere� has been met with commendation from consumers, a statement has explained.

The new “Pere� pack is being seen as an irresistible way to deliver wholesome nutritious evaporated milk in a distinctive packaging, it added.

At a N100 price point, Hollandia Evap 120g “Pere� pack has endeared itself to millions of consumers across Nigeria for its unique creamy taste and nourishing value in a convenient pack.

It is tailored to fit specific consumer needs with quantity benefits and reasonably connects with an affordable price point.

Across neighborhood shops and departmental stores,

the “Pere� pack has grown increasingly popular as more consumers consider it a favourite for its high quality, convenience and affordability, whenever they desire a creamy addition to their cup of tea, coffee, or meals.

Among consumers who spoke was Mr. Oluseyi Adeniyi, a Brand Consultant with MarketingPlus.

He stated that while Hollandia Evap is already a household name in Nigeria for its product quality, affordability and satisfaction, its new 120g ‘pere’ pack size was an innovation that is making inroads with its convenient portion size.

For Ezekiel Usman, a student of University of Ibadan, Hollandia Evap is a creamy and highly nutritious milk. He noted that as students, it was

imperative to settle for value adding products that are pocket friendly, and the new pack fits the bill for his daily use.

Chi Limited’s Managing %JSFDUPS .S 3PZ %FFQBOKBO expressed delight on the feedback received so far from consumers.

He stressed that the product has captured consumer affection by being value maximising and innovative. “At the price point of N100, we were confident that the Hollandia Evap 120g ‘pere’ pack was good value for consumer spend when making purchasing decisions. The convenient portion size and affordability is driving affinity and growing popularity of the pack size amongst consumers desirous of wholesome nutritious milk,� he added.

ELEVATING TO THE NEXT LEVEL Marie-Therese Phido

Likeability will grow your business If you think people only buy from you because you exist as a business or because of the quality of what you sell, you have to think again. You do not have to sell products that lack quality, appeal or reeks of bad service for people not to buy from you. There’s a lot more that goes into purchasing decisions and behavior.

A notion we must start to acknowledge is the fact that we make emotional decisions when we buy. The way we feel when we go into certain shops, how we were serviced, the conversations we had with the shop owner are sometimes strong reasons why we chose one business over the other.

Sometimes, these conversations are so compelling that we keep going into the shop or business to buy or transact business because we like the people we meet there, we like their personalities, we like the banter, they engage our emotions and we just like spending time with them.

This psychological phenomenon is known as the “Trust economy.� It’s the theory that trust, likability, and an inherent idea that popular people are generally better – prompt us to change our mind about where we buy stuff.

So, despite what people say, being liked and being popular is valuable.

Let’s get some scientific evidence to back up the claim that popularity matters.

We first need an understanding of the trust economy. One of the best ways to do this is to look at it from the perspective of Robert Cialdini – a social psychologist and psychology professor who theorized six crucial aspects of social influence, which included: Reciprocation: We’re more likely to do something for someone who does something for us. Why? Because we feel like we owe the people who give us stuff something in return Consistency: We like working with or buying from people who allow us to remain consistent with our values and commitments.

Scarcity: The more someone tells us we can’t have something – or that it’s “rare,� the more we want it.

Likability: The more we like someone, the more we want to say “yes� to them.

Social proof: We need other people to tell us if someone’s worth our trust. (This is where the whole “popularity� angle comes in) Authority: We trust people who seem to know more about something than we do.

In view of the above, it is essential that we create more likeability in our business, because people tend to say “yes� to those they like.

The challenge many businesses have found is that developing likeability as a business is difficult. Every business has to find its preferred and exclusive way of engaging with its customers that helps to showcase its unique value proposition.

Jonathan Chan said, “in a UCLA study that reviewed 500 adjectives based on how they related to likeability, the most associated words were “sincerity, transparency, and understanding.� If you want to be more likable as a business, then you should follow the same rules on how to be more likable as a person.

In other words, display your company as an honest, straight-forward, and sincere entity.

The question is how many businesses really portray themselves in this light. They say it, but do they really act it or do it if push comes to shove.�

According to Chan, under listed are ways you can start to work on being likeable as a businesses.

Don’t be an Attention Hog Nobody likes the guy that’s desperate for attention all of the time. If someone feels like they’ve engaged with your brand because of their own choices, chances are they will have a far more positive opinion of you. On the other hand, if they feel like you’ve bullied them into being your friend, you’re not going to get much loyalty.

Get Involved with Customers Your leads like to know that you care about them. Ask them questions, get involved with what they’re doing, and help them to feel more involved in your business. You’ll quickly find that your potential customers start to take notice.

Marie-Therese Phido is Sales & Market Strategist and Business Coach Email: mphido@elevato.com.ng tweeter handle @osat2012 TeL: 08090158156 (text only)

Act like a Real Human Being Finally, your customers don’t want you to be a big all-knowing business – they want you to be their friend. A solution to their problems and someone that can offer fantastic deals to them when they need it most. Act like a human being, be dependable, transparent, and interesting, and you’ll generate a much bigger social following.

Simple additions like friendly, engaging images and relaxed language will work well for your brand to make them more likeable.

Make Yourself More Popular Use customer reviews and testimonials that can prove not only that you’ve had customers in the past (that’s a big selling point), but also that those customers were happy with the service or product they got from you. Customer testimonials feature relatable and real people – which helps to showcase your personality. What’s more, good testimonials should: r 'FBUVSF QFPQMF XIP BSF SFMBUBCMF UP your target audience r 4IPXDBTF TQFDJà D WBMVF QPJOUT GPS ZPVS service or product r #F TQFDJà D m TIPXJOH NFUSJDT UIBU MPPL similar to case studies for that extra touch of authority Using Inuence Besides testimonials, another way to provide social proof and become more popular is to back yourself up with someone your customer recognizes. You can do this by working with social influencers. Influencers are key experts within a chosen niche or industry who have already taken the time to build a rapport with your audience. In simple terms, they’re the social celebrities your customers trust most, and working with them can give you instant authority.

When using inuencers: r $IPPTF JOåVFODFST UIBU BSF OBUVSBMMZ linked to your target audience, have similar interests and who would be interested in your brand. Find people who your customers respond to easily. r %PO U VOEFSFTUJNBUF iNJDSPu JOåVFODFST Sometimes people with a few thousand followers can still have a positive impact when it comes to building social proof. r #VJME TUSPOH SFMBUJPOTIJQT XJUI UIFTF influencers and get them connected to your brand.

Chan says, “popularity and likeability can take time – particularly if it’s authentic.

But without the right traffic and popularity, you’ll never be able to establish yourself as a trustworthy business.

And in a world of skeptical consumers – it’s the trustworthy bird that gets the worm. If you can build trust and a positive relationship with your customers, your loyal following will grow right along with your profits.�

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CCNN Reaps Benefits of Merger With a surge of 235 per cent in profit in the first quarter ended March 31, 2019, Cement Company of Northern Nigeria Plc merger with Kalambaina Cement Company Limited has started yielding positive fruits, writes Goddy Egene

The new, enlarged Cement Company of Northern Nigeria (CCNN) is a stronger platform to capture significant synergies and create value for the benefit of the shareholders in the form of stronger competitive position, economies of scale, enhanced operations and administrative efficiencies which are expected to accrue.

The above were the words of assurance by the Chairman of BUA Group and CCNN, Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu after shareholders of CCNN and Kalambaina Cement Company Limited approved the merger of both companies last year. Both firms have BAU Group as parent company but were operating separately before they decided to merge their operations last year.

Rabiu had assured stakeholders of improved benefits post merger. And going by the first quarter(Q1) financial results of CCNN ended March 31, 2019, the shareholders are in for better days.

First financial performance A look at the performance of CCNN three months after its merger has shown that revenue jumped by 213 per cent from N5.394 billion in the corresponding period of 2018 to N16.886 billion in 2019. This was the highest in the history of the company and it reflected the impact of the increased combined capacity and the gradual realisation of the synergies following the successful completion of the merger with Kalambaina Cement Company Limited.

Volumeincreased by 233 per cent to 411,945 metric tons(mt). Increase in volume sold based on the increased plant capacity from 500,000MT 000metric tonsto 2,000,000mt and improved capacity utilization of the new plant, showing a combined capacity utilisation of 82 per cent.

Also, a strong domestic demand and a ready growing export market to neighbouring countries remain a positive driver for the increase in sales volume experienced in Q1.

Gross profit rose by 239 per cent to N7.689 billion, from N2.263 billion in 2018. In the past four years, CCNN has been spending less on input cost to produce each unit of products.

This was maintained in Q1 of 2019 as cost of sales ratio fell to 54.45 percent in March 2019 from 58 percent in the corresponding period of 2018, and 62.50 percent in 2017.

Equally, the improvement in operating

Rabiu

performance is due to the new cement plant for which energy costs is cheaper due to coal usage.

CCNN recorded a surge of 255 per cent in profit before tax (PBT) to N5.348 billion in 2019, compared with N1.504 billion in 2018, while profit tax followed same growth trajectory, rising by 235 per cent to N3.636 billion, from N1.083 billion in 2018.

In last five years, CCNN’s profit has been growing steadily with some little slowdown.

For instance, between 2015 and 2016,profit after tax fell to N632.04 million to N242.52 million.

However, profit began to rise after the country.

Hence, CCNN has recorded a surge 236 per cent to N3.636 billion in Q1 of 2019, as against N1.08 billion the previous year.

A further analysis of the performance indicated that the cement firm has been able to turn each Naira invested in sales into higher profit as net margin increased to 21.50 per cent in March 2019 from 20.10 per cent in March 2018, 11.80 percent in 2017, and 6.80 percent in 2016.

Pre-tax profit margin also followed the similar pattern, increasing to 31.70 percent in March

2019, from 27.90 percent in 2018, 15.70 percent in 2017, and 9.40 percent in 2016.

Operating profit margin increased to 31.90 per cent in March 2019 from 26.30 per cent in March 2018, 16.40 percent in 2017, and 10.60 percent in 2016.

CCNN is liquid and it can easily pay off its current liabilities as current ratio improved to 1.5 7 times in March 2019 from 1.50 times the previous year. This implies that CCNN has 1.57 more current assets than current liabilities.

Besides, CCNN has reduced debt in its capital structure as total debt (long and short term) fell by 33.90 percent to N348.61 billion in March 2019 from N52.43 billion the previous year.

Also, the company has CCNN has enough cash to pay debts, reward shareholders in form of dividend, and fund future expansion plans as net cash flow from operating activities surged by 1,881 per cent to N7.31 billion a year ago.

Bright future outlook Many market analysts have expressed high optimism that CCNN has huge potential to deliver sustainable growth and increase shareholders’

wealth going forward. According to them, there many benefits the manager has brought.

Before now, Rabiu had said the expanded CCNN would remain the market leader in its regional market of North West Nigeria, which is the third largest market for cement in Nigeria by consumption, whilst continuing to explore the huge opportunities that exist in the export markets of Niger, Burkina Faso and the west African region. “Traditionally, the huge cost of transportation to CCNN’s home region from other cement plants in Nigeria – the nearest being about 900km away – has always given us a strategic advantage in that region over competing cement companies and brands. The expanded entity will leverage on the cost and energy efficiency of the newly commissioned Kalambaina Plant whilst providing additional value through its products in terms of better quality, higher yields and a stronger cement than competing premium cement brands,� he said.

The merger brought the total installed capacity of the new firm to two million metric tonnes per annum(mtpa) and is expected to bring the total capacity of BUA’s cement operations to eight million mtpa as the group has completed its three million metric tonnes per annum Obu II Cement Plant in Okpella, Edo State.

The merger also provides the company other energy sources and broadens its energy mix.

CCNN is the only cement plant in Nigeria that relies solely on LPFO and diesel.

Also, merger has provided opportunities for CCNN to expand into new markets, some with export potential such as Burkina Faso, and the Republics of Niger and Benin.

Rabiu had assured that the company’s commitment towards Nigerian economy remains strong, noting that the merger would further boost that commitment.

He said: “Our commitment towards the Nigerian economy remains strong and this new entity further deepens the capital market and is a pointer to the continued resurgence of the Nigerian economy. We remain committed to delivering exceptional value to stakeholders at all times. Innovation, efficiency and best-in-class technology will continue to be the key drivers of our cement business.�

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Ebose: Accurate DataVital for Ease of Doing Business Managing Director,Anchor Insurance, Mr.Augustine Ebose, in this interview speaks on the impact of inadequate data on the drive by the federal government to create a conducive business environment in Nigeria, insisting that non-availability of accurate data poses problem to premium income generation among insurance industry operators. Ebere Nwoji brings the excerpts: This is the ďŹ fth month of the year. How has business been so far in 2019?

You are right that businesses slowed down as a result of the focus on the campaigns and subsequently the elections. However, as a going concern which cannot tell stories of failure to owners, the industry never allowed that to affect its zeal. At Anchor Insurance, we did not relent. However, I must confess the political activities, to an extent, affected the result we had expected. Business was not rewarding as we thought because of the elections. You know government is the chief customer of the insurance sector. Government appeared to be more concerned with the elections and this greatly impacted on the industry negatively. Also, then focus on elections slowed down debate on the nation’s budget. Everything was based on the Nigerian budget except for very few agricultural products which do not add much in terms of insurance premiums. Now that elections are over, the economy is picking up. We hope that the president assents to the budget, then we can start harnessing our potential in terms of getting businesses and premium gathering.

Data collation and presentation is a problem in the industry do you agree with this and what is the way forward?

The truth of the matter is if we don’t have records of people, then data collation becomes an issue. Ease of Doing Business will also be an issue. The government launched the campaign but since it was launched, how many people have been doing business easily? There are no data, not even with government agencies and it is really affecting businesses. If I want to do a business with you, there are some basic details I will need you have but ready data are not there to fetch any required details from. Over there, in countries that have got it right, the information is there. For instance, through such data, you can know the level of compliance to the purchase of the compulsory insurances. With such information available, you can effectively go after those who are yet to subscribe to ensure full compliance. And it is because there is such ready information that people feel apprehensive to readily respond to such compulsory regulations.

Details like your date of birth, where you live, your parents, the kind of insurance policy you have, what you do for a living, previous work done are known. If you go to their data bank, every information about their people are there.

By telephone call, you get every information you need about me but here, the reverse is totally the case. Apart from data on persons, volume of businesses transacted and the consequent revenue are perfect. With all these things not being the case in Nigeria, how can business be done here easily and profitably? Until we get our data right as a country, doing business will be difficult.

Data issue in Nigeria is indeed a big challenge and that is why sometimes people doubt data being released by some agencies in the country. Take for instance, in the insurance industry, most times the data released by NIA will be different from the one released by NAICOM and the one released by the National Bureau of Statistics. So with these differences, which one do we take?

Just as I said earlier, inaccuracy in data or lack of data is an issue in Nigeria. If you go to the Corporate Affairs Commission, what exercise have they carried out to check if those directors whose lists are sent to them actually exist? We are not doing business with people because we are not sure of them. When you have doubt in people, the journey that will take you three minutes will take you three years. Even at that, we still have issue of trust, that is our problem.

So, if we don’t deal with the issue of data, nobody will trust our credibility. My name is Augustine Ebose. It can never change. It is part of my data. Here in Nigeria, people will want to do business with Anchor Insurance because they know me but abroad, people will go to your

Ebose website to check for the needed details about your company and go further to confirm such by logging on the site of the Office of Statistics or an appropriate government body but here, where such exists, there are variances. So, the ease of doing business will be a mirage if our data as a country is inaccurate and our statistics as a country is not reliable. A police man abroad will arrest you and tell you your story that you have forgotten because he has your data. So, if I come to your bank and you, as a bank manager, already have my data from the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics, that way, doing business in the country will be very easy. Business is done on trust and after trust comes the relationship.

Can we say that it is the same lack of trust that is making insurance penetration which we have been struggling to achieve difďŹ cult to get?

Yes, it is part of it because the Nigerian insurance industry is the microcosm of the entire economic policy of Nigeria. We cannot take ourselves away from our culture or environment. We can only make policies that would change our environment. That is what will change the way we behave, reason and do things. Abroad, when you lay fraudulent claim, you will go to jail.

How many people who have done business in Nigeria with fraudulent claims have been sent to jail? I haven’t heard of any since I have been working in the insurance industry. It is the same people that will come out and say insurance sector does not pay claims. We don’t pay claims but we only pay valid claims. Abroad, people do policies that hold them accountable because they have history. But here, you do an insurance policy and when you mess up, you will go to another insurance company and still be given cover because the other company does not have your history. Abroad, they have a central system that if you take an insurance policy, you mess up and go to another insurance company, they will tell you where you are coming from and treat your case very specially. So, it is also affecting our premium income, lack of trust, even the government itself does not trust insurance companies.

Why will government that regulates insurance

company be asking for advertisement to steer the company to summit documents when the documents emanated from them? You want to do business with NNPC, the corporation is asking you whether you are qualified to be there? Why don’t they write to NAICOM to give them the names of qualified insurance companies? That is what I sit down here sometimes to think about.

NAICOM understands the state of all insurance companies, they regulate us, mark our books, check our budget and premium incomes. The same NNPC which is a government agency will set up a bid and be advertising for insurance companies to apply. Are you saying that NAICOM does not know the insurance companies that are qualified to write such insurance policies in Nigeria? Corporate Affairs Commission will want to do business with insurance and set up a bid and ask them to apply with list of their directors. Are you saying that the government agency doesn’t have the list of all directors with them? It is something we need to sit down and write to NAICOM and NIA to find a way of making things easy for the insurance sector as it relates to this poser. That’s the way forward.

Inadequate data is affecting the premium income and affecting the way we do business in Nigeria as far as insurance is concerned.

Anchor Insurance is now under your care.

How did you meet the company and what are plans for the company?

I came into this company as an Executive Director in January, 2017. I was appointed the Managing Director of the company by the Board of Directors precisely February 14, 2018. So, I am just some months above a year on my seat. I met the company on a stable ground, though there were a few things I felt needed to be changed to create a new challenge for the company. The company’s premium income was never above N2.2 billion year-in-year out all its 28 years of doing business before I came on board. But as I speak to you now, we did about N3.5 billion in my first year. It is our deliberate plan to change the narratives for the company through aggressive marketing strategy. We have sent our strategic officers on needed training

programmes and they are already delivering expected results. We have looked at every staff area of strength and posted those who need to be moved to where they will deliver superior results for the company. However, much as we hated to advise any staff who did not have the needed speed to be on our fast moving train, we couldn’t resist the temptation to do. We also looked at the information technology system as this is the major source of doing business seamlessly.

We are happy with the results we are getting today. We further looked at the places where there were wastages. We have closed them. We have also looked closely at those we deal with, whether local or foreign reinsurers, in terms of our reinsurances for our risk purposes. Where there were gaps, we have also closed them. So, our insurance is robust.

We are going visual. We want to start using drones to take pictures of immediate claims report for on-the- spot assessment. We are working in that area to improve on our claims assessment and payment. In the next five years, we want to see ourselves in the paperless economy where we don’t use paper to process business or claims or do our work and where everything is online.

That is the way to go. We are looking for the manpower; we will get there in the next five years. Furthermore, the thought of broadening our revenue base led us to think of more products to add to our list. Today, we have NAICOM’s approval to sell agriculture insurance products.

Our Loss of Employment Insurance Scheme for those in employment has been retuned and it is currently receiving massive acceptance. We are not resting on our oars. We are visionary in our approach. We are looking at doing not less than N10 billion four or five years from now, hoping that the economic assumptions we have when we came in are improved upon or above the same. Though NAICOM has dropped its tier-based minimum solvency policy for insurance companies, we at Anchor Insurance have sent in the necessary papers to our regulator asking for approval to raise our capital base from about N5.12 billion to N10.4 billion. We are working round it as I speak. This is to ensure we play in the list of the bigger ones in the nation’s insurance sector.

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EDUCATION Al-Makura: Supporting FG’s Educational Programme in Nasarawa Realising the enormous value the ivory tower adds to the educational development of any society, Governor Tanko Al-Makura’s administration was frontal in ensuring that the Federal University, Lafia started on a good footing and leaps to become one of the best universities in Nigeria that will compete favourably globally. Emmanuel Ukumba reports

Federal University, LaďŹ a gate

T

he Federal University, Lafia (FULafia) was established in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa State in 2010 by the Goodluck Jonathan administration as one of the 12 new federal universities established in the six geo-political zones of Nigeria.

The university commenced academic activities in September 2012 with its first set of students trained by the pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ekanem Braide. It currently has a second Vice-Chancellor, Prof.

Muhammad Liman, who was appointed

by President Muhammadu Buhari, after the expiration of Braide’s tenure.

To ensure that the university commences its activities in the state in earnest, Governor Tanko Al-Makura has since the take-off of the institution, continued to provide moral and infrastructural support to it.

Accordingly, the governor donated to the institution the old Nasarawa State Government Secretariat to serve as its take-off site. This was in addition to residential accommodation he provided for the vicechancellor and the registrar, including a guest house for the university. Not only has the governor secured a permanent site for the university, he has also constructed a block of female hostel at the institution to relieve the students of unnecessary stress and pressure of accommodation.

Speaking during the inauguration of a twin lecture hall constructed by the management of the institution and named after him ‘Umaru Tanko Al-Makura Lecture Hall’ in recognition of the governor’s support for the institution, Al-Makura said: “It is pertinent to further state that in our strategic resolve to facilitate the establishment of a medical college, this administration has donated a newly constructed comprehensive general hospital in Lafia to serve as the teaching hospital for the institution. It is our expectation that the university is doing the needful to ensure the commencement of programmes in the college.�

The governor, who pointed out that he was impressed by the growth of the university both in academics and infrastructure,

Governor Al-Makura expressed hope that “the doggedness of the governing council, the vice-chancellor and indeed the entire management of the university to ensure professionalism in the affairs of the institution will earn accreditation of courses, as well as the take-off of postgraduate programmes in the university. “No doubt, this determination vis-Ă -vis your avowal to entrench the culture of hard work, discipline, integrity and academic excellence has already given you an edge over your peers.

This is how it should be.� Al-Makura told members of the university community that it was gratifying to note that their commitment in that direction is in line with his administration’s determination to revolutionise education in the state. “It would be recalled that when we first assumed office in May 2011, I made a solemn

declaration that education is one of the key sectors we will accord topmost priority.

It is in this connection that we embarked on rapid construction, rehabilitation and provision of infrastructural facilities in our primary, secondary and tertiary institutions across the state.�

He stated that the inauguration of the lecture hall will no doubt add impetus to his administration’s resolve to bequeath an educational system that will provide a twin goal of quality education that will mould the character the students on the one hand and produce economically viable citizens of Nigeria, adding that a well-educated citizenry is more economically productive. “In this regard, I make a covenant with you that development of education will be a legacy that Tanko Al-Makura would be remembered for.�

In recognition of the governor’s laudable

achievements in the state education sector and his support for the Federal University, Lafia, the federal government has commended Al-Makura for his commitment to the basic and tertiary education sub-sectors in the state. The commendation was sequel to the donation of the state government old secretariat as a temporary take-off site for the university and the allocation and development of hostel accommodation at the permanent site.

During a familiarisation visit to the governor, the then Chairman, Governing Council of the institution, Mr. Basharun Arogbofa expressed the federal government’s position. The visit was part of activities leading to the take-off of the permanent site in Lafia.

Also, the governor’s support to the university would remain indelible in the mind of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Liman, who could not conceal his excitement during a thank you visit to the governor. He stated that there is no record of any other state government that has assisted a federal government institution as much as what the government of Al-Makura has done for the institution in the past six years.

He said the efforts demonstrated the governor’s personal commitment to develop the education sector in the state and the country, adding that the governor’s contributions have enabled the institution to function effectively.

The vice-chancellor highlighted the governor’s support to the university to include the donation of the old state government secretariat, registrar’s lodge, electricity transformer, female hostel and donation of the comprehensive general hospital, Lafia to the university to serve as the institution teaching hospital.

Liman said: “The passion for education by the governor, which has translated into concrete achievements, as well as his desire for academic excellence, has made the university to honour him by naming a newly constructed 500-seater lecture hall after him; which would be called Umaru Tanko Al-Makura Lecture Hall.�

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EDUCATION

Westland Varsity will Curb Importation in Nigeria, Says Chancellor Uchechukwu Nnaike The Chancellor, Westland University, Osun State, Dr. Wole Adepoju has announced the institution’s plan to tackle the spate of importation in the country, as its main aim would be to focus on technical productivity of its undergraduates.

He said the institution will be ICT-driven in the college and departments.

The Federal Executive Council had in January, approved the establishment of the institution, alongside three other private universities. The other three are Greenfield University, Kaduna; Dominion University, Ibadan; and Trinity University, Laloko, Ogun State.

In an interview in Lagos, Adepoju explained that the university would commence with a total of 750 students for screening, who would be offered provisional admission through the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB)’s Central Admission Process (CAPS).

He said the focal point of the university, set to commence operations fully in June, is to contribute its quota in stopping importation into the country by emphasising on technical productivity that will include designing and producing.

He added that the country’s economy has constantly faced setbacks over the years as a result of over reliance on

importation, despite the fact that most of the raw materials used for the finished products were originally sourced from the country. “We want to train students on how to produce, using locally sourced materials to meet the country’s 21st century needs.

We will focus on innovation and raw material production for productivity which will be our area of strength, just as it will also be ICT-driven. “Ours is a university that wants to do things differently.

We want to make a difference in the university system in the country. Our university will be fully technical in nature; a university for technical and entrepreneurial skills acquisition and development. We want to stop the importation of not just textiles, but furniture and others. “It is going to be a self-reliant kind of centre where no student will graduate and be looking for a job, an institution that will mould young Nigerians who will be willing to be selfemployed, students who will be willing to go into agriculture, engineering and other fields of endeavour, though not necessarily at the high level, but the skills would have been inculcated in them and they will be rearing to go.�

Adepoju expressed delight that the federal government is now thinking towards that direction, saying, “you know that our emphasise in the system

and as a people has always been on certification, rather than equipping our undergraduates with skills that will readily make them employers of labour on graduation rather than going about to seek for white collar jobs that are not even available.’’ He stated that all the needed infrastructure for the take-off of the university are already on ground, just as the institution’s management has engaged the services of competent lecturers. “With our connection in the diaspora, we are going to bring some of our best hands back home. We are wasting away

our countrymen who rather than stay behind here, go out there to do menial jobs of all kinds just to make ends meet, even with their PhD, this should not be. “The NUC has given us on pro rata basis, how many lecturers should be engaged in every department and we will work along the standard set by it.’’ The chancellor said the institution would commence its operation in phases, adding that it would start with two colleges, Physical Sciences and Social and Management Sciences

as recommended or approved by the commission. “Our phase two, by the time it will take off, will cover technology massively. We listed between eight to 10 colleges, which include Law, Medicine, Pharmacy, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, and others but all these cannot just commence at the same time, even if one has the means to carry out the operation. “We have all our infrastructure on ground including state-of-the-art workshops which cover Mechanical and Electrical and Electronics workshops, as

well as Architecture and Science Laboratory Technology workshops. “The university also has Urban and Regional Planning workshop and Land Survey among others, and all these will be in the phase two of the take-off. “These programmes should all go through gradual accreditation process, which is key in achieving perfection and academic excellence. It may interest you to know that the oldest university in the world, University of Athens in Greece, is still building.�

From Right: The President, China Europe International Business School (CEIBS) Alumni Association, Nigeria Chapter, Sunday Agboola; Vice-President and Dean of CEIBS, Professor Ding Yuan; Country Manager, CEIBS, Nigeria Chapter, Olayinka Aworetan; and Alumni and Corporate Relations Manager, Africa, Samuel Ocloo-Ozaba, at the annual CEIBS ‘One plus One’ lecture in Lagos‌ recently

PCNI Presents Instructional Materials to Pupils, UNIZIK to Honour Kingibe, Achebe, Offor at 13th Teachers in North-east Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi and instructional materials are Convocation Ceremony also important requirements As part of its Education Revitalization Programme, the Presidential Committee on North-east Initiative (PCNI) has presented educational and instructional materials to about 67,500 students and 6,750 teachers in schools across north-east states.

THISDAY checks revealed that in Bauchi State alone, about 7,500 students and 750 teachers are to benefit from the programme aimed at supporting learning and teaching of pupils and teachers in the state.

The Chairperson, Education Sub-committee of PCNI, Professor Hauwa Biu disclosed this recently during the launch and presentation of educational support materials to primary and secondary schools in Bauchi State by the committee held at Zaranda Hotel, Bauchi.

Biu said the launch is part of the PCNI project aimed at overcoming the challenges that near absence of quality learning and instructional materials pose to the educational attainment of the children in the state.

She also explained that the purpose of the intervention is not only to reverse the negative performance of the education sub-sector in the north-east sub-region before the insurgency, but to also invest in the future of the children, describing education as the key to the complete recovery of the north-east.

According to her, learning

for the revitalisation of education, pointing out that PCNI is open to suggestions and partnerships that will fast track these interventions.

She however regretted that “2,295 teachers have been killed and 19,000 others displaced in Bornu, Yobe and Adamawa States in the last nine years, while about 1,500 schools have been destroyed since 2014 with over 1,280 casualties among teachers and students.

While acknowledging the efforts of stakeholders in rebuilding education in the north-east and facilitating access, she particularly appealed to the government of north eastern states, donors and government of friendly countries to assist in revitalising the sector.

She revealed that under the PCNI education revitalisation programme, the PCNI has trained over 3,000 primary school teachers in the northeast to boost their capacity in pedagogy, safety and trauma counselling skills, maintaining that preparations are under way to also train secondary school teachers.

In a goodwill message, the commissioner for education, represented by the Director, School Services, Ministry of Education, Hajiya Talatu Ahmad acknowledged the efforts of the PCNI in reversing all the negative indices associated with education in the north-east.

David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka

Former Chairman of defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP) and running mate of late Alhaji MKO Abiola of the SDP in the 1991 presidential election, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe is among the three distinguished Nigerians to be honoured by Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka at its 13th convocation ceremony.

The Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Joseph Ahaneku dislosed while briefing journalists in Awka to announce the commencement

of activities for the ceremony.

Among those to be honoured alongside the former AU Special Envoy to Sudan and Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission are the Obi of Onitsha, Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe and Chairman of Chrome Oil, Emeka Offor.

While Kingibe will receive honorary Doctorate of Politics and Strategy, Achebe will be honoured as Doctor of Science, while Offor will be awarded Doctor of Entrepreneurship.

Ahaneku said: “These are individuals that have

contributed immensely to the development of the economy of Nigeria and the advancement of the society. “The idea is to bring them in and make them a part of the university and part of our success stories. You all know these men and can bear witness to their standing in the society.�

The vice-chancellor who will be concluding his tenure in the university by June, said being the last convocation ceremony he would preside over, he has put everything in place to ensure that the event turns out colourful.

The activities lined up for the event include a research on May 7, a convocation lecture on May 8, to be delivered by a former Senate President, Ken Nnamani, which would be chaired by former INEC Chairman, Prof Atahiru Jega.

According to Ahaneku, “Nnamani would be speaking on the topic ‘National Integration, Peace and Development’.

May 9 will be for the award of first degrees, and May 10 will be for the inauguration of newly completed projects

by President Muhammadu Buhari.�

LASU Produces 57 First Class, Osinbajo to Deliver Convocation Lecture Ugo Aliogo For the first time in its 35 years of existence, the Lagos State University (LASU) has produced 57 first class students who are part of the 14,312 that will be graduating at the institution’s 23rd convocation ceremonies.

Out of this figure, two of the graduands emerged the best graduating students across the Faculties of Engineering and Sciences.

Briefing journalists in Lagos recently to announce plans for the 23rd convocation ceremonies, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor

Olarenwaju Fagbohun said the ceremonies will kick-off on May 17 with a lecture titled ‘African Centres of Excellence in Africa: A Veritable Catalyst for Nation Building and Development’, to be delivered by the Vice-President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, while a former President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama will chair the occasion.

He gave a breakdown of the number of graduands, which comprise 54 diploma, 10,252 first degrees, 4,063 higher degrees consisting of 1,532 postgraduate diploma, 2,051 academic and professional degrees, as well as 17 PhDs.

The VC described the first class figure as historic and a significant improvement compared with the previous convocation that produced 26 first class graduates. “This is the fallout of our quality assurance measure and every nook and cranny of the university has keyed into this vision. Besides, our campuses are now full of activities as our students compete among themselves within the system and the rest of the world.�

Fagbohun said two best graduating students from the Faculty of Engineering, Ridwan Ola-Gbadamosi and Faculty of Science, Nneka Enumah both

made a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.78.

He said other best graduands are Shukurat Kannike who led the Faculty of Basic Sciences/Physiology with a CGPA of 4.36, while Moshood Bakare of the Faculty of Education made a CGPA of 4.75. “The trio of Ismaila Salami of the Faculty of Management Sciences (Insurance); and Titilope Adebisi of the School of Communication; as well as Emmanuel Oyeleke of the School of Transport dwarfed their colleagues with CGPA of 4.85; 4.47; and 4.12 respectively.�

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Lagos Technical Colleges Produce 1,600 Technicians Funmi Ogundare It was celebration all the way recently at the 2017/2018 graduation and special awards ceremony of Lagos State Government Technical Colleges, where a total of 1,600 technicians graduated.

The students who underwent a three-year intensive training in various trades, were drawn from the five technical colleges in the state: Government Technical College, Ikotun, Government Technical College, Agidingbi, Government Technical College, Ado-Soba, Government Technical College, Ikorodu and Government Technical College, Epe, and were awarded certificates in Federal Craft Training (FCTC) and National Technical/ National Business (NTC/NBC).

In her remarks, the Executive Secretary of Lagos State Technical and Vocational Educa-

tion Board (LASTVEB), Mrs. Omolara Erogbogbo expressed excitement that the board has been able to attain its goals of training people, while acknowledging the contributions of the instructors, parents and principals of the college. “You have made us proud with your great achievements in spite of the numerous challenges which you were confronted with and overcame during your training programmes.�

She also congratulated the students saying, “today, as I look at you and see great hope, you are indeed regarded as the most vibrant, energetic and powerful generation we have ever seen in human history simply due to the fact that you have been bestowed with the latest technology at your disposal which no other generation has, to invent new products and services to provide

meaningful comfortable lives to the society.�

Erogbogbo expressed concern about the challenges and vices confronting the society such as unemployment, armed robbery, drug addiction and poverty, saying that relevant technical and vocational skills/ entrepreneurship are key to the technological and economic development of the country.

A former Senior Special Assistant to Osun State Government on Technical and Vocational Education (TVE), Dr. Moromoke Raji in her lecture stressed the need for the development of policy framework that would harmonise the TVE sector, adding that there should be a synergy among the technical colleges.

She advised the graduands on the key ingredients for building successful businesses, saying: “Team spirit is important in getting it right in the world

of business, you need to have problem solving skills, be critical thinkers and diversify business approach. You must be ready to attract the best customers as your skill is very important.�

In her remarks, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Idiat Adebule acknowledged the efforts of the principals on the graduands, saying that it will enable them contribute their quota to impact the society.

She challenged them to take Nigeria to a greater height by being relevant. “The future belongs to you because you have been equipped with employability skills to be self-employed.�

Awards were presented to the board’s former principal officers in recognition of their contributions to TVE in the state. They were Mrs. Adeyinka Oyemade and Chief Olawumi Gasper.

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Oluranti Adebule (middle), anked by some principal oďŹƒcers of the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB), at the 2017/2018 graduation and special awards ceremony of the state technical colleges‌ recently

50 Indigent Students BeneďŹ t from Maiden Adegbenga Sun-Basorun Scholarship Scheme FoodCo Nigeria Limited has announced the first batch of beneficiaries of the Adegbenga Sun-Basorun Scholarship Scheme for indigent secondary school students in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The scholarship, aimed at promoting the legacy of the late philanthropist and chairman of the organisation, Dr. Adegbenga Sun-Basorun, will cover tuition from junior secondary two until graduation for 1,000 students.

Beneficiaries of the maiden edition of the scholarship scheme were drawn from public secondary schools within

Ibadan, including Oba Akinyele Memorial High School, Queen’s School, Government College and TL Oyesina Model Secondary School.

Others are: Community High School, Alegongo; Methodist Secondary School and Urban Day Secondary School.

The Executive Director of FoodCo Nigeria Limited, Mr. Ade Sun-Basorun who spoke during a ceremony to unveil the first batch of 50 recipients, said the late Sun-Basorun was passionate about assisting the less privileged, especially children

and that the scheme will provide a platform for beneficiaries to actualise their educational aspirations as well as help reduce the burden of out-of-school children in the state. “We are delighted to unveil the first set of beneficiaries of the Adegbenga Sun-Basorun Scholarship Scheme. The scholarship was thrown open to indigent students from secondary schools located around the eight FoodCo outlets in Ibadan.�

He said the organisation is involved in several community partnership initiatives within its

host communities, adding that the project will offer a pathway for young bright minds to actualise their academic desires and make something positive from their lives, thereby immortalizing the ideals of its founding chairman.�

An official of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Olanike Adam commended FoodCo for the initiative, describing it as a demonstration of the company’s commitment to UBEC’s charge that education should be the responsibility of all.

Predictable Future Foundation to Hold Annual Girls’ Conference Tomorrow As part of its mandate to promote the rights of the girl-child in Nigeria, the Predictable Future Foundation (PFF), a non-profit organisation launched with the focus of making quality education accessible to less privileged girls is set to hold its annual girls’ conference tomorrow April 9 at the NECA House, Ikeja Lagos.

The conference, which was designed to champion discussions around inclusive and qualitative education for girls, will have

some key stakeholders in the education system as discussants and panellists.

Over 500 girls and parents from select public schools will attend the 2019 edition and 50 beneficiaries will be selected for scholarship through a transparent exercise for the 2019/2020 academic session.

According to the President of PFF, Hannah Oyebanjo, “recent UNICEF statistics in Nigeria showed that girls make up

60 per cent of the 10.5 million out-of-school children population. Although the task is very enormous, every child, no matter their circumstances or gender deserves an education.�

She added that the mission of the NGO is to secure inclusive and qualitative education for the girl-child with the attendant ripple effects resulting in a better economy, empowerment and a more sustainable country.

Oyebanjo added that PFF is

saddled with bringing together government representatives and other stakeholders annually to xray the situation, formulate ideas and proffer solutions through contributions and partnership to support government’s efforts in providing the right environment for quality education system for Nigerians. “This year’s edition comes at a crucial time when the number of out-of-school children especially girls is an all-time high.�

KEHINDE OMORU www.kayomoru.com

LESSONS FROM ‘MIGHTY MITE’ Ă?Ă‹Ă—Ă“Ă–ĂŁ Ă™Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ăœ ̙ÎËÎ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ?Ă? Ă?Ă’Ă“Ă–ĂŽĂœĂ?Ă˜Ěš ĂĄĂ‹Ă–Ă•Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ™ ÞÒĂ? ĂžĂœĂ‹Ă“Ă˜ËŞĂ? Ă?ÙËĂ?Ă’ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă?ÞÞÖĂ?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ™ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĚ‹Ă?Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ăœ Ă?Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? ÙÞÒĂ?Ăœ Ă?Ă“ĂŽĂ? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă‹Ă“Ă?Ă–Ă?Ë› Ě™ĂŒĂ™Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă? ÖÓÞÞÖĂ? Ă‘Ă“ĂœĂ– ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽĂ?ĂŽ Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă— Ă?Ă?Ă‹Ăž Ă‹Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă?Ă?Ëœ ĂŽĂœĂ™ĂšĂšĂ?ĂŽ ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă“ĂŽĂ? ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă’Ă?ĂŽ Ă–Ă?Ă?ĂžĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽĂ? ĂžĂ™ĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽĂ? ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽ Ă?Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ëœ Ă‘Ă‹Ă Ă? Ă“Ăž Ă‹ Ă?Ă?ĂĄ ×Ù×Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ? ÞÒĂ?Ă˜ Ă?Ă’Ă“Ă—Ă?ĂŽ Ă?âĂ?Ă“ĂžĂ?ĂŽĂ–ĂŁĚš ËŤ Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ Ă‘Ă?Ăž ÞÒËÞ Ă?Ă™Ăœ ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x; ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽË ËŹ Ě™ĂšĂ™Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă&#x;ĂšĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽĂ? ÞÙ Ă‹ Ă–Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄĂ?ÚËÚĂ?Ăœ Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ? Ă–Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă‘Ă‹Ă‘Ă? ĂœĂ‹Ă?Ă• ĂŽĂ“ĂœĂ?Ă?ÞÖã Ă‹ĂŒĂ™Ă Ă? ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽËŞĂ? Ă?Ă?ËÞ˛ ̙ÖÙÙÕĂ?ĂŽ Ă&#x;ĂšËœ Ă?Ă—Ă“Ă–Ă?ĂŽ Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽĚš ËŤĂ?ÙÙÖ ÚÙÙÎÖĂ?ËŹ ̙ÒĂ?Ăœ ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽ Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽ ĂœĂ&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă’Ă?Ăœ Ă’Ă‹Ă“Ăœ ĂŒĂ&#x;Ăž Ă’Ă?Ă?ÓÞËÞĂ?ĂŽĚš ̙ÎĂ?ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ—Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂŽ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ?Ă˜Ăž Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂšĂ?ĂŽ Ă&#x;Ăš Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂĄĂ’Ă“Ă˜Ă?ĂŽĚš ËŤĂ–Ă“Ă?Ăž Ă—Ă? Ă&#x;Ăš ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽËŹ ̙ÑËÞÒĂ?ĂœĂ?ĂŽ Ă?Ă’Ă“Ă–ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ™ ÞÒĂ? Ă?ĂœĂ™Ă™Ă•Ă? Ă™Ă? Ă’Ă“Ă? Ă‹ĂœĂ— Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă–Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă’Ă?Ăœ Ă&#x;Ú̚ ËŤĂ‘Ă™ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă“Ăž Ă—ĂŁËœ ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ? ÞÒĂ? ĂžĂœĂ‹Ă“Ă˜ ×Ùà Ă?Ă?˛˛˛ˏ ̙×ËÕĂ?Ă? ĂžĂĄĂ™Ě‹ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ?Ă? ËÞÞĂ?×ÚÞĂ? ÞÙ ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă?Ă’ ÞÒĂ? ÚËÚĂ?ĂœĂ? ĂŒĂ&#x;Ăž Ă’Ă?Ăœ Ă‹ĂœĂ—Ă? ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ? ÞÙÙ Ă?Ă’Ă™ĂœĂž ÞÙ ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă?Ă’ Ă“ĂžËœ ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽ Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ? Ă’Ă?Ăœ ĂŽĂ™ĂĄĂ˜Ěš ËŤ ĂĄËœ Ă‹ĂĄËœ Ă‹ĂĄËŹ Ě™Ă?Ă’Ă? ÚÙĂ&#x;ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ăž ĂŽĂ“Ă?Ă‹ĂšĂšĂ™Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ—Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă‹Ă˜Ă• ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă• Ă™Ă˜ Ă’Ă?Ăœ Ă?Ă?ËÞ̚ ËŤ ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă–Ă–ĂŁ ĂĄĂ‹Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂŽ ÞÙ Ă‘Ă?Ăž ÞÒËÞ Ă?Ă™Ăœ ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x; ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽË ËŹ ËŤ Ă™Ă˜ËŞĂž ĂĄĂ™ĂœĂœĂŁ Ă‹ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ăž Ă“Ăž Ă—ĂŁËœ ËŞĂ— Ă”Ă&#x;Ă?Ăž Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă? åÓÞÒÙĂ&#x;Ăž ÞÒĂ?Ă—ËŹ Ě™ĂĄĂ“ĂœĂ? Ă‹ Ă?Ă‹ĂŽ Ă–Ă™Ă™Ă•Ëœ Ă‘Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ–ĂŁ Ă?ĂĄĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ă?ĂŽ Ă’Ă?Ăœ Ă–Ă?Ă‘Ă? ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă• Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă™ĂœĂžĂ’ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă•Ă?ÚÞ Ă–Ă™Ă™Ă•Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă&#x;Ăš Ă‹Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄĂ?ÚËÚĂ?ĂœĂ? ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ ÞÒĂ? Ă Ă?Ă˜ĂžĚ‹Ă’Ă™Ă–Ă?Ă? Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂœĂ‹Ă?Ă•Ë› Ă’Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽ Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ?Ăœ Ă‹ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ăž Ă?Ă“Ă Ă? Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă&#x;ĂžĂ?Ă?Ěš ËŤ Ă‹ĂŽËœ ÚÓĂ?Ă• Ă—Ă? Ă&#x;Ăš Ă‹Ă‘Ă‹Ă“Ă˜ ˛˛˛ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄĂ?ÚËÚĂ?ĂœËŹ Ë? ̙ÞÒÙĂ&#x;Ă‘Ă’Ăž Ă‹ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ăž Ă“Ăž åÓÞÒ Ă‹ Ă—Ă™Ă?Ă•Ă?ĂŽĚ‹Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ“Ă™Ă&#x;Ă? Ă?Ă˘ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ě‹ Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ ÞÒĂ?Ă˜ Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂŽĚš ËŤ Ă&#x;ĂœĂ? ĂŽĂ‹Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ĂžĂ?ĂœËœ Ă‘Ă“Ă Ă? Ă“Ăž Ă‹Ă˜Ă™ĂžĂ’Ă?Ăœ Ă?Ă’Ă™ĂžË ËŹ Ě™ĂœĂ&#x;ĂŒĂŒĂ?ĂŽ ĂŒĂ™ĂžĂ’ Ă’Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽĂ? Ă‘Ă–Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă–Ă–ĂŁ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă–Ă?Ă‹ĂšĂ?ĂŽ Ă&#x;Ăš ÞÙ ĂŒĂ? Ă–Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă&#x;Ú̚ ËŤ Ă’Ă‹Ă˜Ă•Ă? ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽËŹ Ě™ĂžĂœĂ“Ă?ĂŽ ĂŒĂ&#x;Ăž Ă?ÞÓÖÖ Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ Ă˜Ă™Ăž ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ă?Ă’ ÞÒĂ? ÚËÚĂ?ĂœĂ?Ěš

ĂĄĂ‹ĂžĂ?Ă’Ă?ĂŽ ÞÒÓĂ? Ă?Ă“ĂœĂ?Ăž ÞåÙ ËÞÞĂ?×ÚÞĂ? Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂœĂ?ÚÞÓÞÓÙĂ&#x;Ă?Ă–ĂŁ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂŽ Ă‹Ă˜ ËÖÞÙÑĂ?ÞÒĂ?Ăœ ͯͲ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă Ă?Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă˜Ăž Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă&#x;Ă– ËÞÞĂ?×ÚÞĂ? Ă—Ă‹ĂŽĂ? ĂŒĂŁ ÞÒÓĂ? Ă?Ă’Ă“Ă–ĂŽ ÞÙ Ă‘Ă?Ăž ÞÒÓĂ? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄĂ?ÚËÚĂ?Ăœ Ă?Ă™Ăœ ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽË›

Ă˜ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ?Ă?ĂžĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ă–ĂŁ Ă‹Ăž Ă‹ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă?ÓâÞÒ ËÞÞĂ?×ÚÞ Ă™Ăœ Ă?Ă™Ëœ Ă?Ă’Ă“Ă–ĂŽ ĂĄĂ™ĂœĂ•Ă?ĂŽ Ă™Ă&#x;Ăž ÞÒËÞ Ă?Ă’Ă? Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă–ĂŽ ĂŒĂ?Ă‘Ă“Ă˜ ÞÙ Ă‘ĂœĂ‹ĂŽĂ&#x;Ă‹Ă–Ă–ĂŁ ÚÙÕĂ? Ă’Ă?Ăœ Ă?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘Ă?Ăœ ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ ÞÒĂ? ÒÙÖĂ?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂšĂ&#x;Ă?Ă’ Ă?Ă™ĂœĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄĂ?ÚËÚĂ?ĂœË› Ă’Ă? Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ă?ĂŽ ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽ Ă™Ă? ÞÒÓĂ? ĂšĂ–Ă‹Ă˜ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă’Ă? Ă˜Ă™ĂŽĂŽĂ?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ Ă‹Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž ÞÒËÞ Ă“Ăž ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă‹ ÑÙÙÎ ĂšĂ–Ă‹Ă˜Ë› Ă&#x;ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă›Ă&#x;Ă?Ă˜Ăž ËÞÞĂ?×ÚÞĂ? Ă‹Ă–ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ˜Ă‹ĂžĂ?Ă–ĂŁ Ă?ÓÞÒĂ?Ăœ ĂšĂ&#x;Ă?Ă’Ă?ĂŽ ÚËÚĂ?Ăœ Ă?Ă“Ă‘Ă˜Ă“Ă?Ă“Ă?Ă‹Ă˜ĂžĂ–ĂŁ Ă™Ă&#x;ĂžĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽ Ă™Ăœ Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂžĂ’Ă?Ăœ ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă•Ë› ×Ëä̋ Ă“Ă˜Ă‘Ă–ĂŁËœ ĂžĂ’ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’ Ă“Ăž Ă‹Ă–Ă–Ëœ ÞÒÓĂ? ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽ ĂŽĂ“ĂŽ Ă˜Ă™ĂžĂ’Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÙ ĂœĂ?Ă?ÙÖà Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂšĂœĂ™ĂŒĂ–Ă?Ă— Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă’Ă“Ă? ÖÓÞÞÖĂ? Ă‘Ă“ĂœĂ–Ëœ ÙÞÒĂ?Ăœ ĂžĂ’Ă‹Ă˜ ÞÙ Ă–Ă“Ă?Ăž Ă’Ă?Ăœ Ă&#x;Ăš Ă‹Ăž Ă?Ă Ă?ĂœĂŁ ĂœĂ?Ă›Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Þ˛

ÖÙÙÕĂ?ĂŽ Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂœĂ?ÚÞÓÞÓÙĂ&#x;Ă?Ă–ĂŁ Ă‹ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă?Ă Ă?ĂœĂ‹Ă– Ă?Ă˘ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă? ĂœĂ?Ă‘Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ?ĂœĂ?ĂŽ Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă?ÖÖÙå ÚËĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă? Ùà Ă?Ăœ ÞÒÓĂ? Ă?Ă’Ă“Ă–ĂŽ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽ Ă?Ă‹Ă‘Ă‹Ë› Ă˘ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă“ĂŽĂ?Ă˜ĂžĂ“Ě‹ Ă?Ă“Ă?ĂŽ ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ?Ë? ˞Ë×Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜Ăž ËžĂ?ĂœĂ&#x;Ă?ĂžĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ËžĂ“ĂœĂœĂ“ĂžĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ËžĂ‹Ă˜Ă‘Ă?Ăœ ËžĂ?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă&#x;Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜ ËžĂ‹ĂšĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă‹Ă– ËžĂ‹Ă˜Ă˜Ă™ĂŁĂ‹Ă˜Ă?Ă? ˞ÎÓĂ?Ă‹ĂšĂšĂœĂ™Ă Ă‹Ă–Ă? Ă›Ă&#x;Ă‹Ă–Ă–ĂŁ ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ăž ĂĄĂ?ĂœĂ? Ă Ă‹ĂœĂ“Ă?ĂŽ Ă—Ă&#x;Ă?Ă?Ă–Ă?ĂŽ Ă Ă?ĂœĂŒĂ‹Ă–Ă“Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă? Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă—ĂšĂ‹Ă˜ĂŁĂ“Ă˜Ă‘ ÞÒĂ?Ă?Ă? Ă?Ă‹Ă?Ă“Ă‹Ă– Ă?Ă˘ĂšĂœĂ?Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ë› Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă˜Ă‘Ă?ĂœĂ? Ă’Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă—Ă™Ă&#x;ÞÒĂ?ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă™Ă–Ă–Ă™ĂĄĂ“Ă˜Ă‘Ë? ËŤ Ă?Ăž Ă“Ăž Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă’Ă?Ăœ Ă—Ă‹Ă˜Ë ËŹ ËŤ Ă™ Ă‘Ă“ĂœĂ–Ë ËŹ ËŤ ÒËÞ˪Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă–Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă˜ËŁËŹ ËŤ Ă’ĂŁ ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă™Ă“Ă?Ă?ËŁËŹ ËŤ Ă‹Ă˜ËŞĂž ĂĄĂ? Ă’Ă‹Ă Ă? Ă?Ù×Ă? ĂšĂ?Ă‹Ă?Ă?ËŁËŹ ËŤ ÓÑÒÞã Ă—Ă“ĂžĂ?Ë ËŹ ËŤ Ă–Ă‹Ă Ă? ĂŽĂœĂ“Ă Ă?ĂœË ËŹ ËŤ ÒËÞ˪Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă–Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă˜ËŁËŹ ËŤ Ă“Ă?Ă? ÚÖËãĂ?ĂŽ Ă™Ă&#x;ĂžË ËŹ ËŤ ÙÙÎ Ă—Ă‹Ă˜ËŹ Ă?Ă?ÚÖã Ă?Ă˜Ă‘ĂœĂ™Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă“Ă˜ ÞÒÓĂ? ĂŽĂœĂ‹Ă—Ă‹ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂĄĂ‹ĂŽĂŽĂ–Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ Ă“Ă˜ ×ÓâĂ?ĂŽ Ă?Ă—Ă™ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ëœ Ă‹Ă–Ă—Ă™Ă?Ăž Ă—Ă“Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă—ĂŁ Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ĂŒĂ&#x;Ăž ĂžĂ’Ă‹Ă˜Ă•Ă? ÞÙ ÞÒĂ? Ă?ĂŁĂ?ĂžĂ?Ă—Ëœ Ă”Ă&#x;Ă?Ăž Ă‹ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ăž Ă—Ă‹ĂŽĂ? Ă“Ăž Ă™Ă&#x;Ăž ĂŒĂ?Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ? ÞÒĂ? ĂŽĂ™Ă™ĂœĂ? Ă?Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă?ĂŽË› Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂĄĂ’Ă“Ă?ÞÖĂ? ĂĄĂ‹Ă? ĂŒĂ?Ă“Ă˜Ă‘ ĂŒĂ–Ă™ĂĄĂ˜ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă˜Ă‘Ă“Ă˜Ă? ĂœĂ?Ă Ă Ă?ĂŽ ÞÙ ×Ùà Ă?Ëœ Ă”Ă&#x;Ă?Ăž Ă‹ĂŒĂ™Ă&#x;Ăž Ă?Ă‹Ă&#x;Ă‘Ă’Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă“Ă‘Ă’Ăž Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ? ÖÓÞÞÖĂ? Ă‘Ă“ĂœĂ– ĂšĂ&#x;Ă–Ă– Ă™Ă&#x;Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄĂ?ÚËÚĂ?Ăœ Ě‹ Ă‹Ăž Ă’Ă?Ăœ ͰͳÞÒ ËÞÞĂ?Ă—ĂšĂžËœ Ă‹Ă?ĂžĂ?Ăœ Ͳ͜ Ă—Ă“Ă˜Ă&#x;ĂžĂ?Ă? Ă™Ă? ĂžĂœĂ‹Ă Ă?Ă–Ëœ åÓÞÒÙĂ&#x;Ăž Ă‹ Ă?Ă’Ă‹Ă˜Ă‘Ă? Ă“Ă˜ ĂŽĂ‹ĂŽËŞĂ? Ă’Ă?Ă–ĂšËœ Ă‹Ă–Ă– ĂŒĂŁ Ă’Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă?Ă–Ă?Ë›

Ă?ÖËÚÚĂ?ĂŽ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă’Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ?ĂŽ Ě™Ă?ÙÖÙ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă&#x;Ă˜Ă‹Ă?Ă’Ă‹Ă—Ă?ĂŽĂ–ĂŁĚš Ă‹Ă? ÞÒĂ? ĂžĂœĂ‹Ă“Ă˜ ×Ùà Ă?ĂŽ Ă™Ă˜ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÔÙĂ&#x;ĂœĂ˜Ă?ĂŁĂ?ĂŽ Ă?Ù×ÚÖĂ?ĂžĂ?Ă–ĂŁ Ă™Ă&#x;Ăž Ă™Ă? Ă?ÓÑÒÞ˛ Ă’Ă‹Ăž ĂĄĂ‹Ă? Ă‹ Ă‘ĂœĂ?Ă‹Ăž Ă–Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă™Ă˜ Ă?Ă™Ăœ Ă—Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹ ÞÓ×Ă?Ă–ĂŁ Ă?Ă˜Ě‹ Ă?Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ‹Ă‘Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă˜ĂžË›

ÒÙÚĂ? ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x; ÑÙÞ ÞÒĂ? Ă‘Ă“Ă?Ăž Ă™Ă? ÞÒÓĂ? Ă˜Ă‹ĂœĂœĂ‹ĂžĂ“Ă Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă‹Ăœ ĂœĂ?Ă‹ĂŽĂ?ĂœË› ÙÎ Ă‘Ă‹Ă Ă? Ă&#x;Ă? ĂžĂœĂ?Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă˜Ă™Ăž ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂ˜Ă“ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ë› Ă? Ă’Ă‹Ă Ă? ĂŒĂ™Ă™Ă•Ă?Ëœ ÚÒãĂ?Ă“Ă?Ă‹Ă– Ă–Ă“ĂŒĂœĂ‹ĂœĂ“Ă?Ă? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă Ă“ĂœĂžĂ&#x;Ă‹Ă– Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă™ĂœĂ—Ă‹ĂžĂ“Ă™Ă˜ ĂšĂ™ĂœĂžĂ‹Ă–Ă? ĂŒĂ&#x;Ăž ĂĄĂ? Ă—Ă&#x;Ă?Ăž Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă?Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă— Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ĂœĂ?Ă‹ĂŽË› Ă? Ă™Ă?ĂžĂ?Ă˜ Ă’Ă‹Ă Ă? ĂŽĂ?Ă‹ĂŽĚ‹Ă–Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă?Ëœ ĂšĂœĂ™Ă”Ă?Ă?ĂžĂ? Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ă“Ă‘Ă˜Ă—Ă?Ă˜ĂžĂ? ÞÙ Ă?Ù×ÚÖĂ?ĂžĂ?Ë› Ă–Ă– Ă™Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă?Ă? ÞËÕĂ? Ă—Ă&#x;ÖÞÓÚÖĂ? ËÞÞĂ?×ÚÞĂ? ÞÙ Ă‹Ă?Ă?Ù×ÚÖÓĂ?Ă’Ë› Ă Ă?ĂœĂŁ ËÞÞĂ?×ÚÞ ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x; Ă—Ă‹Ă•Ă? Ă“Ă? Ă˜Ă?Ă Ă?Ăœ ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă—Ă?Ë› Ă“Ă•Ă? ÞÒĂ? Ă˜Ă?ĂĄĂ?ÚËÚĂ?ĂœËœ ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x;Ăœ ÑÙËÖ Ă—Ă‹ĂŁ Ă“Ă˜Ă?Ă’ Ă?Ă–Ă™Ă?Ă?Ăœ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ ÞÒĂ?Ă˜ Ă?Ă–Ă“Ăš ĂŒĂ‹Ă?Ă•ĂĄĂ‹ĂœĂŽ Ă‹Ăž ĂŽĂ“Ă?Ă?Ă?ĂœĂ?Ă˜Ăž ĂšĂ™Ă“Ă˜ĂžĂ? Ă“Ă˜ ĂŁĂ™Ă&#x;Ăœ ÔÙĂ&#x;ĂœĂ˜Ă?ĂŁË›

Ă? ÞÒÓĂ? ÒËÚÚĂ?Ă˜Ă?Ëœ Ă•Ă?Ă?Ăš ÞÒĂ? Ă?Ă‹Ă“ĂžĂ’Ë Ă’Ă? ËÞÞÓÞĂ&#x;ĂŽĂ? Ă“Ă? ÎÙÑÑĂ?ĂŽĚ‹Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ?Ă˜Ă?ĂŁË› Ă˜ĂŽĂ?Ă?ĂŽ ÞÙĂ&#x;Ă‘Ă’ ÞÓ×Ă?Ă? Ă˜Ă?Ă?ĂŽ Ă?Ă™Ă˜Ă?Ă“Ă?ĂžĂ?Ă˜Ă?ĂŁ Ă‹Ă˜ĂŽ Ă?Ă™Ă?Ă&#x;Ă? ÞÙ Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂ Ă“Ă Ă? ÞÒĂ?Ă—Ë› Ă’Ă“Ă˜ Ă&#x;Ăš ĂŽĂ?Ă‹Ăœ ĂœĂ?Ă‹ĂŽĂ?ĂœËž ĂŒĂ? Ă‹ Ă?Ă&#x;ĂœĂ Ă“Ă Ă™ĂœË›

Mrs Kehinde Omoru writes from the UK

T H I S D AY Ëž ÍśËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

35

Afe Babalola University Mentors Foreign Varsity Tunde OloďŹ ntila

I

t is not for nothing that the nine-year-old Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) has been acknowledged by the National Universities Commission (NUC), the regulatory authority for university education in Nigeria as “the pride of university system in Nigeria�. It is also for a worthy reason that the Association of ViceChancellors of Nigerian Universities (AVCNU) has dubbed the same university as “the most successful private university in Nigeria�, while UNESCO has endorsed it as “a world class institution of higher education�.

It is certainly for something and something positive and commendable at that, that the university which has clearly overshot its expectations within its short history of existence has become a clear leader and overtaken many universities which are several decades older than the 21st century university, which commenced academic works on Monday, January 4, 2010.

For example, in the university’s first MBBS examination in July 2018, its students stamped their stamp of academic excellence on the world when the 43 of them presented for the examination recorded an unprecedented 100 per cent with eight distinctions - the equivalent of first class in other disciplines.

This accomplishment has thus made ABUAD the first university in the country to produce medical doctors in six-and-a-half years after its medical programme flagged off when some other universities, which commenced their medical programme some two decades ago are yet to graduate their first set of medical doctors.

Whilst still basking in the euphoria of this rare feat, the news filtered in from the Nigerian Law School in October last year about how ABUAD students stood out tall in this externally-moderated professional examination. Before now, NUC, the regulatory authority for university education in Nigeria, has acknowledged ABUAD’s Law College as the “best in West Africa�.

This accolade was further confirmed by the result of the 2018 bar examination conducted by the Council of Legal Education, where ABUAD recorded 100 per cent pass with the overall best student coming from ABUAD. In addition to the above, ABUAD students won 24 out of the 36 available prizes as a result of which many of the much older universities have been congratulating the university.

In the last ATS 1 ICAN examination, a 200-level Economics student of ABUAD, Miss Nellieken Ochinke emerged second best out of the 2,500 candidates who sat for the examination in West Africa, while UNESCO instituted a professorial chair on Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Development.

It must be in appreciation of all these national and international recognitions and encomiums that the nine-year-old university was over the weekend approached by the 14-year-old International University of Grand Bassan, Cote D’Ivoire for mentorship and partnership.

Apart from innumerable Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) and linkages with many universities in Europe, America and Latin America, the International University of Grand Bassan (IUGB) will be the third university to be mentored by ABUAD. The two others are the University of Industrial Development (UID), Ghana (since 2013) and the 27-year-old Benue University (since 2017).

IUGB’s Vice-President for Academic Affairs, Prof. Ahmed Legrouri, who led a five-man exploratory team to ABUAD last weekend commended the founder, Chief Afe Babalola, SAN for his altruistic inclinations at establishing a world class university in Africa.

Legrouri, who was accompanied by Mrs. Ramatou Coulibaly-Gauze (Director of Finance and Administration), Mr. Anoh Simeon, a consultant engineer to IUGB, Prof.

Francis Sossah, an architect and his architect son, Yani, said: “We are in Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, to explore the possibility of fostering a partnership between the two universities to the advantage of the African continent. But then, I must say how delighted we are at what we have seen since we came in, particularly at the ABUAD Multi-system Hospital�.

He added: “It was such as a joy to us that

Babalola such an hospital is in Africa. The equipment therein matches those in any great hospital in Europe and America. Those manning the equipment are fantastic. I congratulate you that you have competent staff manning the expensive equipment. It is a thing of joy indeed�.

According to Legrouri, the essence of the collaboration was to adopt ABUAD as a role model following its landmark achievements in the realm of functional and quality education within the little time of existence, stressing that the existing learning facilities and array of academic gurus in ABUAD attest to the fact that the Babalolas have an unrepentant

penchant for high quality market- driven education.

In his view, the partnership between the universities will engender the promotion of academic exchange that will make IUGB a widely recognised university like ABUAD “We are here to seek partnership with ABUAD so that we can offer opportunities to our students to develop. Education is key to the development of our countries. And like ABUAD, we put emphasis on quality education and training the future leaders of the country. “We are really very impressed with the achievements of this great institution. It is an

honour to have such a wonderful meeting with you. We have learnt a lot from you.

We thank you for accepting our request to partner with you. And with the achievements of this university, we are ready to adopt them as our model. We have learnt a lot from the infrastructures and the attitudinal disposition of the people managing them. And in the way of building our new campus on 80 hectares in the city of Bassam, we are going adopt what we have seen here�, he said.

Speaking at the well-attended parley with the IUGB officials, Babalola disclosed that the collaboration would be the third of its kind, after the ones with the University of Industrial Development in Ghana and Benue State University in Nigeria.

The frontline legal colossus said the decision to adopt his university as a mentor was not accidental bearing in mind the unparalleled and unprecedented achievements of the institution in the realm of functional education since it commenced academic activities on January 4, 2010.

Babalola said: “If you want to be a university internationally recognised, you must have affiliation with other institutions outside the country. And you must have students and lecturers from other countries and curriculum that will make others to come. With these, it is crystal clear that ABUAD’s place on the map of global education can’t be compromised.�

He added: “My joy is that we did not extend any invitation to those who want us to mentor them. It has always been at their own instance. What they have read, learnt and heard about us made them to approach us for mentorship for which we are very happy.�

-Olofintila wrote in from Ado-Ekiti

Sta of Nigerian Breweries with university representatives from Nottingham, Salford and Cardi at the UK universities’ career fair in Abuja‌ recently

UK Varsities Hold Career Fair for Nigerian Alumni in Abuja About 19 universities in the UK held a career fair at the weekend in Abuja to link their Nigerian graduates with top employers in the country.

The fair with the theme ‘Nigerian Talent, UK Educated’ had at least 15 top companies in Nigeria in attendance.

The Regional Manager, West Africa External Operations, University of Nottingham, Mrs. Emma Tarrant Tayou while briefing journalists said the companies present comprised private companies and international organisations.

She said the fair affords the alumni an opportunity to use the skills that they have gained in the UK to the benefit of organisation and development in Nigeria, as well as for leading employers to meet with graduates with world class education and experience. “In the 19 universities alone,

10,000 and 15,000 Nigerians have registered. So a good number of our alumni returned to Nigeria to work and find opportunities to use the skills that they gained in the UK. Today, we have had over 300 alumni registered and there is no limit to the number. Some of them are already employed but are looking at other opportunities.�

Also speaking, the International Officer, University of Essex, Arinze Odiari said the event demonstrated the commitment of UK universities to their graduates. He recalled that the maiden edition held in Lagos with success recorded. “What can be more rewarding and mutually beneficial for graduates and employers alike than to be together under one roof. Employers are looking for graduates with world class education and with experience

in global standards, and here we have Nigerian graduates who are looking to apply the education and skills acquired to the development of their great nation. It is a win-win for Nigeria. “We promised to make this an annual event, we promised to extend it to graduates based outside of Lagos and that is why we are here in Abuja today,� Odiari said.

He added that the initiative will reduce the issue of brain-drain in the country, saying that there seems to be unemployment in the country because of the problem of finding the right person with matching skill to fill available vacancies.

Some alumni at the event said the fair was an opportunity to meet with potential leading employers and also network with colleagues.

Halima Jafiya, a graduate of Psychology from the University

of Essex said “my expectation is to network with other alumni and speak with potential employers.

I think this idea is great, it is a hub to harness Nigerians educated abroad. Our country needs us, Nigeria is a great place with so much opportunities.�

Similarly, Samson Abiona, a graduate of MSc Management and E-business from Nottingham Trent University said he expects to network and meet top Nigerian and international companies “I got the notification for this career event last week and I expect to see a lot of international organisations come around and some Nigerian companies come around to select good talents. I also expect to do a lot of networking, to brainstorm on ideas. I came back to develop my country with the skills I have acquired.�

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T H I S D AY Ëž ÍśËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

CITYSTRINGS

ĂœĂ™Ă&#x;Ăš Ă?Ă‹ĂžĂ&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? ĂŽĂ“ĂžĂ™ĂœË? Ă’Ă“Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă–Ă“Ă? äĂ?Ă™ĂŒĂ“ Ă—Ă‹Ă“Ă– Ă?Ă’Ă“Ă?Ă—Ă?Ă–Ă“Ă?Ë›Ă?äĂ?Ă™ĂŒĂ“ĚśĂžĂ’Ă“Ă?ĂŽĂ‹ĂŁĂ–Ă“Ă Ă?Ë›Ă?Ă™Ă—Ëœ ͙͖͓͓͖͓͔͓͖͑͒

Bringing Hope to Makoko Vanessa Obioha writes that the recent visit by Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe Foundation to Makoko, a notable slum in the Yaba area of Lagos State, brought hope to the community

T

he palace of the Baale Jeje Ayinde in Makoko, a slum nestled in the bustling Yaba area of Lagos State was in a frenzy on a recent afternoon.

The excitement was caused by the visit of Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe Foundation (HOW), a non-profit organisation founded by the Managing Director of Access Bank, Herbert Wigwe.

It was a year ago that the foundation sponsored the building of Hope Center in Makoko, a project spearheaded by the City of David Church in Victoria Island, Lagos. Initially a church, the centre is now a nursery and primary school which offers free education to the poor community.

Sharing same compound with the palace, the centre is the only colourful building in the area.

On this particular Workers’ Day afternoon, women of all ages sat expectantly at the open shade of the palace, waiting for the commencement of the scheduled programme. Some came with their children or grandchildren, while others arrived alone or in the company of their husbands. Some of the men gathered were mostly youths, who at such occasions tried to maintain orderliness by ensuring that the touts popularly known as area boys do not disrupt the flow of events.

Upstairs in one of the classrooms, the young students entertained the guests with songs and dances. You could tell from the smiles on their faces that they are enthusiastic about their August visitors which include the wife and children of the founder.

The visit by HOW Foundation called for a celebration, as the Head of Academics, Yemisi Akinode regaled her guests with the success story of the centre. She narrated how Baale Jeje Ayinde was the only ruler who opened his doors to the gospel of Christ and welcomed the idea of a school in the community.

Initially, parents objected to the idea of their wards going to school, being that the impoverished area features an array of artisans — fishermen, carpenters, tailors and others. But with time, they sent their wards to the school, more so when HOW Foundation committed to building a better structure for them. The centre now boasts of eight classrooms, and have over 100 children.

Hope Centre is the only school in the area that offers free education. However, the school has only eight teachers. “It is quite a struggle to have volunteers to teach in the school. They have to endure the stinging smoke from burning firewoods. Some of the students don't understand English language.

We had to employ interpreters to communicate with them,� she said.

Another major challenge of the institution is the furtherance of the students after they complete their primary education. To this aim, friends of the foundation pledged to award secondary school scholarship to the three best graduating students. The institution nevertheless disclosed that they plan to have their own secondary school to enable the students to complete their education.

As part of its core goals to promote education and good health, the foundation gave out education materials to the school. Also in commemoration of the World Malaria Day which is celebrated every April 25, HOW gave out medical materials for preventing and combating the malaria via the project tagged, 'Give Malaria No Place (GMNP).’ The NGO foundation is set to distribute over 2000 free mosquito nets, 4000 free medicines for preventing and curing of malaria, while also giving sensitisation on the proper use of mosquito nets and proper malaria prevention habits.

The Managing Director and CEO of HOW Foundation, Antonia Ally, pledged further support to the community and especially the Hope Centre. Responding to the kind gesture, Akinode thanked the NGO for the gesture that was extended to the institution, and she used the opportunity to appeal to more spirited Nigerians to come to the aid of the pupils in the school.

"Nothing is too small", she enthused.

The traditional ruler Ayinde while commending the foundation for bringing such initiative to their community, lamented how two lives were recently lost to malaria. He appealed to members of his community to put to practice what they were told about the malaria prevention techniques

Explaining malaria preventive measures to an indigene of Makoko community

A happy student with his bags of goodies

Happy students of Hope Centre, Makoko to avoid subsequent tragedies.

It is not the first time HOW is visiting the community to elevate their squalid state. Having started nine months ago, the foundation is on a mission to eradicate malaria, prostate cancer and

promote youth development with leadership and mentorship programs. The aim of the founder is to impact a life positively everyday with the series of seminars and workshops. Hopefully, through this intervention, Makoko will one

day be set free from the chains of poverty that has engulfed it for so long. As Akinode aptly pointed out, among the students are the future doctors, engineers and leaders of our beloved country.

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T H I S D AY Ëž ÍśËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡

CRIME&SECURITY

Police Intensify Efforts to Rescue Kidnapped Traditional Ruler in Katsina Following the abduction of Musa Umar, a traditional ruler and member of the Katsina State Emirate Council, the police said efforts are ongoing to rescue him.

The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Frank Mba, while reacting to the incident said the police has intensified rescue efforts, just as the police command has relocated to Daura.

He said: The Commissioner of Police in charge of Katsina State Command, CP Sanusi Buba has relocated his office from the state capital to Daura, where he is at moment coordinating security and investigative operations aimed at rescuing the recently kidnapped victim in Daura. “Currently, there are massive strategic security operations, both covert and overt missions, taking place at different

parts of the country, including Katsina aimed at subduing the criminal gangs and restoring sanity to the land. “However, because of the covert and sensitive nature of these operations, I will not discuss them for now. But Nigerians should be assured that the entire law enforcement and intelligence community in Nigeria will not rest until we win the battle against crimes and criminality in Nigeria.�

Last week Wednesday, the Magajin Garin Daura, Musa Umar, was abducted from his Daura residence after observing his prayers.

Umar, a retired customs comptroller, who doubles as the traditional ruler is the father of Fatima Musa, wife of Colonel Mohammed Abubakar, the Aide de Camp (ADC), to President Muhammadu Buhari.

CP Sanusi Buba

Edo Police Launches Operation Puff Adder, Parades Serial Killer Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City

In a bid to checkmate the activities of criminals and their sponsors, the police command in Edo State recently launched it's version of "Operation Puff Adder".

The command also paraded an alleged serial killer, Frank Ikhuebor said to have killed about 38 persons.

Operation Puff Adder' is based on the principles of community, intelligence-led policing, synergy with other security agencies, convoy/motorised patrols and stop and search operations.

Launching the operation, the state Commissioner of Police, Danmallam Abubakar, noted that criminal vices like cultism, kidnapping, armed robbery emerged in geometric dimension

CP Danmallam Abubakar

as social activities are high in the state because it is a gateway to both the Southern and Northern Nigeria.

Abubakar said the 'Operation Puff Adder' would be fully optimised in the state, adding that the strategy put in place has led to the arrest of 356 with conviction for 49 suspects, while 198 ammunition were recovered.

Also, the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 5, Diba Yakadi urged all stakeholders in the state to co-operate and partner the police to reduce crimes in the state.

He described the operation as a robust security plan with massive deployment of trained and motivated personnel who are expected to display high level of discipline in the discharge of their duties.

Police Inaugurate K9 Unit in Lagos The Lagos State Police Command on Monday inaugurated Canine Section, popularly known as the K-9 unit of the Force Animal Branch in Ikeja.

The unit, which is designated to take care of the police dogs specially trained for security and detecting explosives, was renovated by the Lagos Province 47 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) as part of its corporate social responsibility.

Inaugurating the facilities, Special Assistant to Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of RCCG, Pastor Idowu Oluwamade, said that it was part of the Christian Social Responsibility programme to contribute towards the development of the society.

Oluwamade said he hoped the gesture would boost the morale of the officers at the K9 Section to give their best while discharging their duties.

Also speaking, Pastor Femi Obawoye, of the province said that the church decided to execute the project as part of its social responsibility to assist the Nigeria Police Force, adding that the church did it because it knew the importance of police dogs to security.

Noting that the government could not provide all things in terms of security, Obawoye said the church having looked round found that the dogs’ quarters needed attention for the good of the animals and their handlers.

Commending the church for executing the project, the state Commissioner of Police, CP Zubairu Muazu, who was represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in Charge of Finance and Administration, DCP Oqua Etim, said that the intervention would help boost crime prevention in the state.

He said: “The Police Canine Section

Guests at the inauguration of the K-9 unit in Lagos popularly called K9 was established in 1963 in Obalende, Lagos with six dogs and six handlers. The function of K9 section is to prevent and detect crime through the use of dogs. Police dogs are used for crowd control, perimeter surveillance and condoning.

“Sniffer dogs help in detecting illicit drugs such as: cocaine, heroin, hemps, explosives, arms and concealed corpse.

They equally help in tracking suspects, search-and- rescue operations, searching for weapons and recovery of loss or stolen property.

“The dogs also are used for the apprehension of offenders resisting arrest or attempting to evade service.

Police dogs can perform the functions of 10 armed officers. The K9 Section, Lagos State Command covers every part of Lagos.�

39

T H I S D AY Ëž ÍśËœ 2019

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Elebute Urges FG to Focus on Economic Growth Nume Ekeghe The Senior Partner, KPMG Nigeria and Chairman, KPMG Africa Mr. Kunle Elebute has urged the federal to focus on growing the economy, which according to him will ultimately increase the country’s tax base and revenue.

He also one of the ways the government can incentivise foreign investors is to lower tax rate in the country.

Elebutu said this yesterday on the ‘Morning Show,’ a breakfast programme on Arise Television, a THISDAY sister broadcast station.

On what government can do differently to enhance taxation as a major source of revenue, he said: “If you really want tax revenue to grow, you have to grow the economy. If the economy is not growing, you can’t expect tax revenue to increase. “Another major aspect is the issue of trust. Taxpayers need to see what their money do because if you are using my tax money on expenditure and to finance elephant projects, why should we pay tax? “Granted that it

is a civic duty, we must pay our taxes, but the reality where leaders and those at the helm of affairs do not use tax payers’ money to grow and develop the economy you would find that the trust equation would be broken.�

Speaking further, he said: “For me, we have to move away from the way we do our budget. Fiscal policies are all about how we can grow the economy, drive the economy to become attractive for investments and how do we use that investment to ensure we can create more revenue sources to get people to pay more taxes. “So we have always focused on Appropriation Bill.

However, many countries have move on from what we call an Appropriation Bill to a Finance Bill, which reflects the fiscal policy of the government. “If you want to make amendments to a tax law, we don’t have to wait to amend the tax law. You can use the Finance Bill to tweak the tax law regularly so that you can actually have revenue sources included in the finance bill to drive revenue and it is a more balanced document

for anyone to read.�

According to the KPMG boss, to make the Nigerian economy more competitive, “tax is another way to attract investment and therefore you look at the tax rate with other competing counties.�

He added: “Overall, you have to have a fiscal policy that drives growth and investment in an economy. “Also, if you lower taxes for just lowering taxes without a strong collection system, you could have much more leakages than the case may be. “But bringing taxes down, hopefully more people would into the base but you have to get those not paying to come into the tax base.�

Responding to a question on why the Voluntary Assets and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS) failed, he said: “I think it failed because it was not properly defined on what they want to achieve and how they want to achieve it. “I think it was rushed and it was targeted to high income earners as supposed to the bottom of the pyramid where you want to increase the base.�

CBN Grants La Fayette National MFB Operating Licence Advans-La Fayette Microfinance Bank has secured a national microfinance banking licence from the Central Bank of Nigeria.

A member of the Advans Group, La Fayette was licenced as a financial institution by the central bank in 2012 and has been offering a complete range of financial services for its customers including savings accounts, current accounts and fixed deposit accounts.

Over the years, the bank has grown to be one of Nigeria’s leading microfinance banks fully committed to responding to the needs for financial services of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and other members of the public who have little or limited access to formal financial services through provision of tailored financial services in a sustainable and responsible manner.

Speaking to newsmen on the acquisition of the licence,

the Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of the bank, Guillaume Valence, averred that micro, small and medium enterprises are the major contributors to growth and economic development as well as the first employer in Nigeria.

He, however, lamented that that they lacked the financial support to develop their businesses. “They still lack both the necessary business and financial support to develop their activities. By supporting this population, Advans-La Fayette MFB is contributing to the national objective to reduce financial exclusion rate to 20 per cent by 2020. “Moreover, Advans-La Fayette MFB has implemented the international best practices when it comes to client protection principles and contributes significantly to the financial literacy of its clients,� Valence

stated.

He added that bank has demonstrated great resistance and resilience to a challenging economic environment and has consistently grown its client base and outstanding loan portfolio over the years.

Giving a load-down, he explained that as at December 2018, the bank had disbursed 63,913 loans for a total of N27.9.

He also disclosed that the group served more than 900,000 clients and employed over 6,800 staffs, with a gross loan portfolio of â‚Ź880 million and a total of â‚Ź510 million deposits.

Valence added that being a national microfinance bank, the financial institution would be able to deepen its outreach contributing to the central bank’s financial inclusion objective across the country, expanding the provision of microfinance services to Ilorin, Kwara State which would be the first branch outside Oyo State.

Unity Bank Partners Cotton Farmers The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), in partnership with Unity Bank and the National Cotton Association of Nigeria (NACOTAN), has flagged off distribution of Seeds/inputs supplies to Cotton farmers for the 2019 planting season nationwide.

The distribution of cotton input supplies to farmers is part of the Anchor Borrowers Programme of the CBN operated as an on-lending scheme with participating financial institutions packaged to channel financing support to beneficiaries in the Agric sector. Commenting on the development, the Executive Director, Corporate Planning & Compliance, Unity Bank Plc, Usman Abdulqadir, was quoted in a statement from the bank to have said the partnership was on account of the lender’s strong participation in the programme

aimed at rebuilding customer confidence, alleviating poverty through food and cash crops production to make Nigeria self-sufficient in food and diversifying the economy.

He further said: “Unity Bank’s strategy is to bank the agricultural value chain. Therefore, we finance primary production, agricultural processing as well as commodity trading. “We also support agricultural mechanisation, agricultural services and the procurement of inputs and implements.�

Speaking further, he said: “What is most noteworthy is that while other banks basically concentrate on lending to big value end of the agriculture value chain such as the flour and rice millers, Unity Bank does not leave out the small holder farmers who are in primary production.�

Continuing, the bank in the statement added: “Unity Bank’s involvement in the ABP has thus created huge social and economic impact on the income of households involving over 500,000 participating small-holder farmers, thereby boosting not only the Gross Domestic Product and reducing unemployment but also helping to end the perennial dissipation of scarce foreign exchange to import food.�

The National President of NACOTAN, Mr. Anibe Achimugu, said the Unity Bank/ CBN programme would assist the association in sourcing the right seeds to be delivered to cotton farmers at the right time.

He also said the association produced an estimated seed cotton of between 60,000 and 80,000 tonnes in 2018, hoping that this figure will be surpassed in 2019.

Elebute

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

NOVEMBER 2018 Money Supply (M3)

31,794,803.44

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

6,333,064.28

Money Supply (M2)

25,461,739.17

-- Quasi Money

14,773,076.98

-- Narrow Money (M1)

10,688,662.18

---- Currency Outside Banks

1,711,763.59

---- Demand Deposits

8,976,898.59

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

18,990,400.78

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

12,804,402.66

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

26,062,986.22

---- Credit to Government (Net)

2,980,229.66

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

7,093,619.43

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

-4,144,571.43

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

23,082,756.56

--Other Assets Net

13,258,583.57

Reserve Money (Base Money

6,811,192.37

--Currency in Circulation

2,100,129.91

--Banks Reserves

4,366,259.05

Ëž Ă™Ă&#x;ĂœĂ?Ă? Ě‹

Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month

March 2018

Inter-Bank Call Rate

15.16

Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR)

14.00

Treasury Bill Rate

11.84

Savings Deposit Rate

4.07

1 Month Deposit Rate

8.82

3 Months Deposit Rate

9.72

6 Months Deposit Rate

10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate

10.21

Prime Lending rate

17.35

Maximum Lending Rate

31.55

Ëž Ă™Ă˜Ă?ĂžĂ‹ĂœĂŁ ÙÖÓĂ?ĂŁ Ă‹ĂžĂ? Ě‹ ͯ͹Ϲ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT MONDAY, 6 MAY 2019

The price of OPEC basket of fourteen crudes stood at $70.23 a barrel on Monday, compared with $70.61 the previous Friday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculation.

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Oriente (Ecuador), ZaďŹ ro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Merey (Venezuela SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna

39

T H I S D AY Ëž ÍśËœ 2019

MARKET NEWS

Union Bank Assures Stakeholders of Improved Profitability,Value Creation Goddy Egene The Chairman of Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, Mr. Cyril Odu, yesterday assured stakeholders that the bank would focus on disciplined cost management to improve the profitability and deliver value to all our stakeholders.

Odu, gave the assurance while speaking at the 50th annual general meeting (AGM) held in Lagos, noting that Union

Bank has been positioned to take advantage of the emerging opportunities in the economy. “And we remain optimistic about the future of the bank.

We will execute our 2019-2021 strategic objectives – sweating our assets, digitising our bank, and positioning for the future towards being Nigeria’s most reliable and trusted banking partner. “We will focus on embedding disciplined cost management as well as mining synergies across

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

business segments and functions to improve the profitability of our business and deliver value to all our stakeholders – shareholders, customers, business partners’ and employees,� he said.

Highlighting some of the some major achievements of the bank in 2018, the chairman said Union Bank strengthened retail and transaction banking offerings, launched the first Local Letter of Credit to support local trade and launch of the inaugural N13.5 billion

S E C U R I T I E S MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N )

bond issue and the adopted the robotic process automation (RPA) technology.

Speaking on the financial performance in 2018, Odu said profit before tax grew by 33 per cent to N18.5 billion from N13.9 billion in 2017. “Customer deposits also went up by seven percent to N857.6 billion compared to N802.4 billion in 2017, continuing its upward trajectory since 2016, an indication of consumers’ growing confidence

T R A D E D MAIN BOARD

A S

in the brand. As a result of aggressive focus on recoveries, the bank’s non-performing loan(NPL) ratio declined to 8.1 per cent in December 2018 from 20.8 per cent as at December 2017. In addition, the return on tangible equity (ROTE) improved to 9.6 per cent from 6.2 per cent in 2017,�

Also speaking on the group’s performance for 2018 and plans for 2019, the Chief Executive Officer, Emeka Emuwa said: “Our priorities in 2018 were three pronged:

O F

enhancing our productivity across board; tightening up our loan portfolio (especially resolving key large exposures which drove NPLs up significantly at the end of 2017); and optimising the bank’s capital and funding base. I am pleased to report that we made significant strides in each focus area. Notwithstanding a depressed economic environment and a challenging operating landscape, our efforts to optimise productivity delivered results.�

0 6 / 0 5 / 2 0 1 9 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

40

T H I S D AY ˾ WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019

41

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS

AIICO Insurance Grows Full Year Profit after Tax by 146% to N3.1 Billion Goddy Egene AIICO Insurance Plc has grown its profit after tax (PAT) by 146 per cent from N1.3 billion to N3.1 billion for the year ended December 31, 2018. The bottomline from gross written premiums which rose from N32.1 billion in 2017 to N37.7 billion in 2018.

Earnings per share increased

by 144 per cent from 18 kobo in 2017 to 44 kobo in 2018.

In line with its progressive dividend policy, the board has recommended a 20 per cent increase in dividend payout for approval at the annual general meeting of shareholders. Specifically the dividend is N415.812 million, which translates to six kobo.

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager.

Investors with similar objectives buy units of the Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities that willl generate their desired return.

An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the

Speaking on the results, the Managing Director/CEO, Mr. Edwin Igbiti said: “As a company, we are in the business of bringing relief to our esteemed clients in times of losses. This is evidenced by over 25 per cent growth in gross claims from N23.3 billion in 2017 to N29.1 billion in 2018.

From this amount, about 76

floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an investment vehicle that allows both small and large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg.

Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their investments. The assets are divided into shares that are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

GUIDE TO DATA: Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 06May-2019, unless otherwise stated.

per cent was for benefits and claims payment in our Life business with the remaining 24% incurred in the Non-Life business.”

According to him, the company’s financial position remains robust and continues to improve with total assets witnessing a 19 per cent growth from N92.4 billion

in 2017 to N109.9 billion in 2018. “Shareholders’ equities also increased by 38 per cent to N14.5 billion, from N10.5 billion in 2017. Our financial position is an indicator of our capacity and ability to continue to provide protection and risk assurance services to our clients over the long-term,” Igbiti said.

Also speaking, the Executive

Director / Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Babatunde Fajemirokun, said: “The year 2018 was significant for our company, as it marked the end of a 5-year transformation plan.

The meticulous execution of our transformation plans continue to yield expected results with year-on-year improvements in our performance.”

Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or ETF are bought by investors.

Bid Price: The price at which Investors redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total return an investor would have earned on his investment. Money Market Funds report Yield while others report Year- to-date Total Return.

NAV: Is value per share of the real estate assets held by a REIT on a specific date.

DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD aaml@afrinvest.com Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 1 270 1680 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Afrinvest Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund N/A N/A N/A Nigeria International Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD info@acapng.com Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Canary Growth Fund 0.89 0.90 5.90% ACAP Income Funds 0.63 0.63 12.77% AIICO CAPITAL LTD ammf@aiicocapital.com Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.15% AIICO Balanced Fund 2.29 2.31 3.03% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 16.11 16.59 -2.93% ARM Discovery Fund 352.64 363.28 -1.12% ARM Ethical Fund 29.07 29.95 2.94% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 13.09% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 98.96 99.66 -2.20% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 12.65% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.92% Paramount Equity Fund 12.04 12.14 1.94% Women's Investment Fund 106.05 106.58 2.34% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.92% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 100.46 100.92 Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 100.04 100.74 CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT investment@coronationam.com Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Coronation Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Coronation Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfundng@ecobank.com Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 12.48% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 12.36% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD invest@fbnquest.com Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,177.36 1,178.19 5.53% FBN Heritage Fund 144.01 145.00 0.42% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 13.19% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional 119.37 119.82 4.81% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 119.26 119.71 4.97% FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 144.19 146.26 -3.87% FIRST CITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD fcamhelpdesk@fcmb.com Web: www.fcamltd.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.28% Legacy Equity Fund 3.38 3.38 4.09% Legacy Debt Fund 1.16 1.18 -5.16% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.05 1.05 1.59% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A Coral Income Fund N/A N/A N/A GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@gtlgroup.com Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.51% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 109.37 109.66 1.45% INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD enquiries@investment-one.com Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.52% Vantage Balanced Fund 2.16 2.19 0.78% Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 15.12%

Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 129.64 129.77 3.75% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fincon@lotuscapitallimited.com Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.16 1.18 1.60% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,090.99 1,090.99 4.55% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD info@meristemwealth.com Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund 11.22 11.31 -2.49% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 11.73% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD info@pacassetmanagement.com Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.27 1.30 3.74% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.36 11.42 2.14% PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 13.30% SCM CAPITAL LIMITED info@scmcapitalng.com Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SCM Capital Frontier Fund 121.48 121.97 0.59% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD investments@sfsnigeria.com Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.01 1.01 5.04% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD assetmanagement@stanbicibtc.com Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 2,362.96 2,375.80 2.09% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 199.24 199.24 4.79% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.93 0.94 -1.58% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 253.22 253.25 2.45% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 159.97 161.69 -1.96% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 12.71% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 8,221.14 8,314.39 -3.19% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.11 1.11 -0.05% UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Balanced Fund 1.18 1.19 -1.34% United Capital Bond Fund 1.68 1.68 5.34% United Capital Equity Fund 0.69 0.70 -2.62% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 13.00% United Capital Eurobond Fund 110.31 110.31 2.85% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.12 1.12 2.53% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD service@quantumzenithasset.com.ng Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 10.67 10.83 0.98% Zenith Ethical Fund 12.10 12.24 1.23% Zenith Income Fund 21.71 21.71 12.44% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 11.60%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

N/A 120.54 52.31

-44.85% 2.39% 1.10%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

9.90 104.86 84.67

10.00 107.08 86.23

-6.17% -10.61% -4.51%

Fund Name FSDH UPDC Real Estate Investment Fund SFS Skye Shelter Fund Union Homes REIT

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund

VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund

funds@vetiva.com Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

3.76 6.68 13.72 10.85 153.38

3.80 6.76 13.82 11.05 155.38

-5.91% -12.31% -8.17% -12.12% 6.81%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

106.90

17.40%

INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund

The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only.

42

T H I S D AY ˾ WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019

T H I S D AY ˾ Ͷ˜ Ͱͮͯͷ

43

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T H I S D AY ˾ WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019

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WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

INTERNATIONAL

UN Launches Software to Track Foreign Terrorist Fighters The United Nations (UN) has inaugurated a software solution aimed at catching foreign terrorist fighters as they cross international borders.

UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, said that countering terrorist travel programme

announced on Tuesday, should help countries share information to tackle the “major transnational threat’’ of fighters returning home or relocating following the territorial defeat of Islamic State.

An estimated 40,000 people

Sri Lankan Police Confirm Arrest, Killing All Terrorists Linked to Easter Attacks Sri Lankan security forces have arrested all those directly linked to the Easter terror explosions on April 21, Acting Police Chief, Chandana Wickramaratne, said in a special statement on Tuesday.

Wickramaratne said the police had identified all those involved in the terror attacks and many of them had committed suicide when security forces attempted to arrest them.

He said that the two bomb experts involved in the terrorist attacks had also been killed and forces had seized all the explosives and bombs which had been stored for future attacks.

“We request the public to

said that the case raised questions about Myanmar’s progress toward democracy and sparked an outcry from diplomats and human rights advocates.

They were released under a presidential amnesty for 6,520 prisoners.

President Win Myint has pardoned thousands of other prisoners in mass amnesties since April.

UAE Seeks UN Court’s Measures against Neighbouring Qatar In the dispute over the imposition of a blockade on the Gulf state of Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has now demanded “provisional measures’’ from the highest United Nations Court in The Hague.

With “fabricated evidence and fake and misleading information,’’ Qatar is fueling the conflict, lawyers for the UAE said on Tuesday from the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

They are demanding an injunction on their neighbouring state, they said.

In 2017, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Egypt imposed an air and sea blockade on Qatar, alleging that the small Gulf state was

terrorists and other high-risk criminals prior to them carrying out an attack is a high priority for the international community,’’ Guterres said.

The software, based on a programme donated by the Netherlands, should help countries detect, prevent, investigate and prosecute terrorist offences, the UN chief added.

The goTravel software is primarily aimed at helping

countries currently lacking the technical means to track terror suspects.

Especially in order to sift through passenger data quickly to identify threats and pass on that information to the relevant country or authority, the international police organisation Interpol, for example.

EU countries and the “Five Eyes’’ group Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Britain and the

United States, already have advanced information-sharing networks.

UN member states are already legally obligated by a UN Security Council resolution to have transport companies provide advance passenger information and a passenger name record to the appropriate national authorities to detect the movements of terror suspects.

resume their daily activities without fear. Search operations will continue throughout the island, but all those directly involved in the attacks have been arrested or are dead.

“The security forces will continue to provide security to all its citizens,’’ the police chief said.

He said that tight security would remain in places of worship and security forces were also conducting a programme to create awareness about safety and security in all schools.

Over 250 people were killed and over 500 injured in the Easter Sunday explosions which targeted three churches and three luxury hotels.

Two Reuters Reporters Freed in Myanmar after over 500 Days in Jail Two Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar after they were convicted of breaking the Official Secrets Act walked free from a prison on the outskirts of Yangon on Tuesday after spending over 500 days behind bars.

The two reporters, Wa Lone, 33, and Kyaw Soe, 29, had been convicted in September and sentenced to seven years in jail.

Media report however

from over 110 countries have travelled to Syria and Iraq to join terrorist groups, according to the UN. “Many are well trained and could carry out future terrorist attacks.

Others hope to radicalise and recruit new followers to their cause,’’ Guterres said at the programme’s launch in New York.

“Detecting and disrupting these

supporting terrorism.

Qatar then sued the UAE as the alleged mastermind behind the blockade at the UN court.

The UAE is violating the human rights of Qatari citizens on the basis of “racial discrimination,’’ Qatar argued.

Citizens were expelled and their freedom of expression was restricted, it claimed.

The court ruled in favour of Qatar in 2018 and ordered the UAE to protect its citizens’ rights.

The UAE reject all the allegations as untrue.

Qatar is spreading “selfproduced evidence, false and misleading information,’’ it said.

United Nations General Assembly President, Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garces (left), and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, at a press conference during a courtesy visit at the State House Abuja...yesterday STATE HOUSE

11 Kenyans Killed in Clashes Near Kenya-Ethiopia Border At least 11 Kenyans were killed and two others injured in clashes along the KenyaEthiopia border in Kenya’s northern Marsabit County on Monday, police and local government officials confirmed on Tuesday.

Local government official Mamo Honicha said that two others were nursing gunshot wounds after the attack in Forole area over a dispute on a watering point.

Honicha added that the assailants from Ethiopia, sprayed bullets on locals, who were attending a meeting that sought to iron out issues between neighbouring communities.

He said that the incident

took place at midday on Monday when a section of Ulan elders and young men were invited to the meeting that turned into a tragedy.

Marsabit County commissioner Gilbert Kitiyo said he was yet to be furnished with details of the incident but promised action to solve the conflict.

“It’s true the incident happened. We are yet to be furnished with more details,’’ Kitiyo told Xinhua over the phone. “We are also in contact with our Ethiopian counterparts on the issue.’’

Local leaders met in Nairobi on Tuesday to condemn what they termed as heinous massacre of their clan members

by the attackers.

A former Turbi ward member of the county assembly, Yattani Wario, said the killing was well organised.

“It’s unfortunate the officials tricked about 15 Gabra elders from Forole area in North Horr Sub-County to attend a peace meeting along the border.

The meeting later turned into bloody slaughter of 11 elders and wounding of three others.

“We later learnt it was a decoy to butcher Kenyan elders,’’ Wario said.

He feared the number of casualties will likely rise as fighting was still going on

by Tuesday along the border.

Wario said the victims, all above 60 years, were killed by

the attackers from Ethiopia after a disagreement over a watering point.

He complained that no security officers from the Kenyan side responded to the attack even though a police station is situated 4 km from the scene.

The leaders blamed the bloody conflicts on a section of politicians in Marsabit County with Ethiopian roots for allegedly funding clashes in the region.

They called on the government to return firearms that were confiscated from the National Police Reservists in March, saying the communities have been left vulnerable to attacks.

Israel Pledges Peaceful Co-existence with Neighbours The Embassy of Israel in Nigeria has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to strive for peaceful-coexistence with its neigbouring countries.

Mr. Nadav Goren, Deputy Head of Mission of the Israeli Embassy, made this known in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja.

Nadav said this had become important since Israel was under attack between May 4 and May 5 and Israelis living in South of the country woke-up to

another bombardment of rockets from Gaza.

He said that when Hamas struck Israel it struck Gaza and Hamas routine storage of weapons and firing from civilian neighbourhood showed disregard for humans and its intention to endanger Gazans.

According to him, Israel will soon be celebrating its 71st independence day noting that for nearly three quarters of a century the State of Israel has been forced to contend

with one threat after another.

“Despite ongoing threats Israel has prospered; not only has it grown from poor to a developed nation in the span of a few short decades, it has become a global powerhouse of innovation.

“It has also continuously sought peace, indeed achieving peace with its neighbours Egypt and Jordan. Israel yearns for the day in which peace too will be established with its Palestinian neighbours.

“As the State of Israel continues to strive for peaceful co-existence with its neighbours, it will not forget hundreds of thousands of Israeli youth huddled in chilling bomb shelters and prepared to remain there.

“The ceaseless rocket fire from Gaza Strip is robbing innocent Israeli and Gaza youth of their innocence, preventing students from going to school, participation in sports and leading normal lives.”

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WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWSEXTRA

Shun Godfatherism, Dogara Tells Newly-elected Lawmakers Says Nigeria’s real problem is lack of leadership not corruption

Udora Orizu in Abuja The Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara has advised the newlyelected lawmakers to shun godfatherism, saying that to grow as leaders that the country is yearning for, they must be prepared to stand for the truth regardless of who is for or against it or how severe the consequences are.

According to him, Nigeria’s real problem was lack of leadership and not corruption as widely claimed.

Dogara gave the admonition yesterday while delivering his keynote address at a conference, tagged: “Convergence 2.0 Leadership, Power & Politics,” for young elected lawmakers in the national and State Houses of

Assembly, organised by YIAGA Africa and Not Too Young To Run organisations.

Dogara also stated that Nigeria’s real disease was lack of leadership, adding that the so-called leaders have mastered the act of political witchcraft.

“Nigeria’s real disease is lack of leadership. I disagree with all those who say our major national disease is financial corruption rather the real disease has been the absence of true leadership, which in turn breeds moral corruption and wickedness. Get a true leader that solves moral corruption and wickedness; when that happens, you will search for financial corruption to no avail.”

“Unfortunately, the leadership model we have practised so far is the kind of leadership that produces sycophants who are

expected to serve their political godfathers and not the people. Our so-called leaders have mastered the art of political witchcraft so much so that if you are independentminded, you are automatically disqualified and if for any reason you are picked, then you have to surrender your soul for them to eat in small bites until you become their worshipper,” he said.

The country, he added, was in need of leaders who will lead to build a nation and serve others, and not godfathers who demand to be worshipped and served rather than serve the people.

He said: “In the midst of this pandemic sycophancy our so-called godfathers expect us to fit in and not to stand up to be counted or make a difference.”

“For you, trailblazers who carry the burden and the promises of a generation that must not fail, if you are ever going to get there, it must be on the wings of discipline that produces character. This is because without character, you cannot be men and women of influence and without influence you cannot change anything.

“Character means that you cannot be separated from your word, a quality no godfather in history has ever possessed.

Character is not only that your word is your bond but that you are actually what you pretend be.

While godfathers always pretend to be something other than who they really are, leaders do not,” he stated.

He also advised the newly-elected

lawmakers to be prepared to afflict themselves in order to bring comfort to their broken people.

“You must be reminded that true greatness only comes while serving others and not when serving yourself or godfathers. Above all, what will define you as a triumph or tragedy in this journey is like I have said, discipline because everything that has ever gone down is traceable to indiscipline.”

“The value that was instrumental in driving you to seek for office is what will define how you carry yourself, what effort you put into the art of lawmaking, and how much impact you desire to make not for yourself, but your constituents,” Dogara added Also speaking at the conference, the British High Commissioner,

Catriona Laing revealed that her country supported the “Not Too Young Movement” with 795,000 pounds She urged the newly-elected lawmakers to contribute by engaging the state and federal legislatures on issues which affect the people.

“You have moved from “Not Too Young To Run” to being ‘ready to run’.

Now, it’s time to contribute your quota as political representatives will determine how much progress is made in all areas of life in Nigeria.”

“This is why the UK has been a proud supporter of this movement, and we will continue to support you as long as you are prepared to lead,” Laing said.

Miyetti Allah is Like Afenifere, Ohanaeze, Says Presidency No, they are butchers of men, cows, Fani-Kayode insists Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The presidency yesterday stated that Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) is like Afenifere and Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo socio-cultural groups and thus should not be criminalised.

It also defended the meeting between the Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, and the leadership of the Miyetti Allah, adding that the government needed the cooperation of Miyetti Allah to help in tackling weapons proliferation as the security situation in the country worsens But a former Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, has disagreed with the presidency, insisting that Miyetti Allah is an association of butchers of cows and men.

The former minister argued that comparing the group to Afenifere or Ohanaeze was like comparing the Church of Satan and the Cosa Nostra to the Vatican and the Anglican Communion.

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, who was a guest on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily yesterday, urged Nigerians not to politicise the meeting, clarifying that all stakeholders have a role to play in ensuring that the country remains safe.

The president’s aide, however, said, “It is a mistake to say the Nigerian government is talking to bandits.

“The Miyetti Allah group is like Ohanaeze and Afenifere. It is a socio-cultural group. There are criminals within the Yoruba race and you cannot say because of that, Afenifere is a group of criminals.

“The Nigerian government is speaking with the leadership of the Fulani herders association, Miyetti Allah.”

When asked if it is true that the herders were offered N100 billion to help maintain peace, Shehu said, “That is 100 per cent untrue. I have confirmed that in all the meetings held, money was never discussed.

“All of the issues were about the involvement of the leadership of Miyetti Allah and getting them

to prevail upon its members and they are many. We asked them to assist the administration to recover weapons which were owned by a lot of these elements,” Shehu said.

The presidential aide said it did not directly translate to amnesty, adding that “it is a win-win situation for all because the cattle breeders also have their issues, which they brought to the government; and the more discussions take place, the more interesting it becomes.”

The president’s aide further stated that state governments would be involved in the talks.

He said some of the herders admitted that they went into crime because they had been dispossessed of their cattle by rustlers.

Shehu added, “These things are being addressed and they are moving to the next stage.

“In states like Kogi, Benue, Kaduna, Zamfara, Katsina and Niger, they will be talking to the governors so that you can use them. They are available so that you can help the government to caution and control some of these things unfolding.”

In his response, however, the Head of Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), Mr. Emmanuel Onwubiko, faulted the approach of the Presidency.

Onwubiko said Miyetti Allah had defended violence in the past and as such could not be said to be a peaceful organisation like Ohanaeze and Afenifere.

Fani-Kayode has also disagreed with the presidency, saying Miyetti Allah is an association of butchers of cows and men.

“No they are not. They are an association of butchers of cows and men. They are the purveyors of violence, the custodians of falsehood and the repositories of evil. They are as perfidious as they are dangerous!

“They are an umbrella organisation of dark, callous, bloodthirsty and merciless men that seek to legitimise, shield and protect the Fulani herdsmen, the fourth most deadly terrorist organisation in the world,” the former minister said.

PROMOTING GOOD HEALTH…

L-R: Global Medical Director, Collinson Smart Health International, Simon Worrell; Head, Business Development, International Healthcare, Michelle Elmore; Sales Director, Mike Caidan; Chairman, Royal Exchange Healthcare, Alhaji Sani Hamid; General Manager, Lagos State Health Management Agency, Dr. Peju Adenusi; and Managing Director, Royal Exchange Healthcare, Dr. Emenike Onwutalu, at the Royal Exchange Health/Collinson Smart Health International Medical Product launch in Lagos...recently ABIODUN AJALA

NAF Kills 20 Armed Bandits in Zamfara Air Strikes Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jet and an attack helicopter yesterday carried out air strikes, killing 20 armed bandits near Rugu Forest in Zamfara State.

The bombardment also reportedly destroyed the camp of a major kidnap kingpin, Alhaji Lawal, resulting in the death of the 20 fighters.

An update by NAF’s Director of Public Relations, Air Commodore Ibikunle Daramola,

said the air interdiction followed intelligence report that indicated that the notorious kidnapper was camped in a settlement near Rugu Forest where he kept his logistic supplies.

“The Air Task Force (ATF) for Operation Diran Mikiya has recorded a major success against armed bandits in Zamfara State by destroying the camp of a major kingpin, Alhaji Lawal, and neutralising up to 20 of his fighters near Rugu Forest in Zamfara State.

“This was accomplished in

a dawn attack executed after credible intelligence indicated that the notorious kingpin was camped, along with dozens of his fighters, at a settlement about 4 kilometres West of Rugu Forest, where he keeps his logistics supplies, coordinates operations and launches attacks against security forces as well as innocent civilians”, he said.

He said the air strikes recorded direct hits on the logistics base of the bandits.

“Consequently, following detailed confirmatory

Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, the ATF dispatched one Alpha Jet and an attack helicopter to strike the camp.

“The Alpha Jet strikes recorded direct hits on the camp destroying the armed bandits’ structures, fuel storage containers, arms, explosives and other logistics supplies, which were seen engulfed in flames.

“The attack helicopter carried out mop-up attacks on the target.

No fewer than 20 armed bandits were neutralised in the air strikes”, he said.

Kogi PDP Threatens Court Action against Allocation of Funds to Council Administrators Yekini Jimoh in Lokoja The Kogi State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has threatened to go to court if the federal government further pay any direct allocation to the state’s local government councils headed by administrators.

The PDP in a statement issued yesterday by Prince Bode Ogunmola noted that any further

release of allocation to ‘illegal’ local government administrators in the state would be challenged in court, describing the kangaroo administrators as Governor Yahaya Bello’s conduit pipe to defraud the people of the state.

The PDP observed that despite the billions of naira accrued to the councils, percentage payment is still being paid, with no visible development to show by the

administrators.

The PDP in the statement said: “We advise the federal government to release the allocation to only elected local government elected officials henceforth, describing the continuous release of funds to the councils as a recipe for a legal action that would cripple the administration in the third tier of government.

The PDP stated that it is a constitutional matter not to allow illegal administration order than elected councils to subsist as third tier of administration. The party lamented that in almost four years, the Bello’s administration has continuously recycled the administrators, looting their funds at the expense of payment of salaries and infrastructure development.

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NEWSEXTRA

Kano Assembly’s Speaker, Deputy to Earn Life Pension Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano The Kano State House of Assembly has passed

the Pensions Rights of Speaker and Deputy Bill 2019, which will enable the two presiding officers earn

We Won’t Exit Nigeria, Says WEMPCO Esther Oluku Following the trail of publications on the proposed sale of the prestigious Lagos Oriental Hotel and an imminent fold-up of the WEMPCO Group, the parent company, Western Metals Products Company Limited (WEMPCO), has restated its faith in the Nigerian economy and declared its continued involvement in the Nigerian business environment.

In a statement made available to THIDAY, the group clarified that it has no plan to exit Nigeria.

“We must hereby categorically state that there has never been and there is no intention of the WEMPCO Group to exit Nigeria as stated in the reports. Our Group has been in Nigeria over several decades and have witnessed many cycle of the Nigerian economy,” the statement said.

According to the group, publications had been circulated on some papers earlier in the month announcing the sale of its hotel and an imminent shut down of the parent company.

The group however, clarified that the sell-out of the hotel is a commercial decision based on the merit of reasonable transaction.

The group added that selling off of the hotel would not in any way hinder its other business projects in Nigeria as the hotel is not the flagship investment of the WEMPCO Group.

The management of the group has said that although the country is currently experiencing though economic time, the resilience of the Nigerian economy has always prevailed.

The company stressed that alongside the Nigerian economy, it would come out strong adding that contrary to the reports that the WEMPO Group depended on federal government waivers, the group said it had never received special concession aside that extended to industries as a whole.

It declared its unflinching engagement in the Nigerian business environment and urged the general public to disregard any publication stating that the group is folding up from Nigeria.

FG Inaugurates Committee on Internal Security, Community Policing Olawale AjimotokaninAbuja The federal government has inaugurated a committee to strengthen the internal security framework and community policing in Nigeria.

The committee is headed by the Permanent Secretary Special Services Office, Dr Amina Shamaki.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, who inaugurated the 14- man committee yesterday in Abuja, urged the members to come up with new innovative and pragmatic ways of resolving the nation’s security challenges and enthrone a robust culture of community policing.

He said calls to introduce state police had heightened in the last decade and similarly dominated discussions at the National Conference convened by the Goodluck Jonathan’s administration in 2014.

The SGF noted that the setting

up of the committee was sequel to a report of the Senior Executive Course 40 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Jos, on the rising insecurity in the country.

The SGF added that the report presented to the federal government for consideration highlighted security problems to include poor policy linkages, poor implementation of policies, centralised control of the Nigeria Police Force, as well as lack of public confidence and trust in the country’s security agencies.

“The recommendations of the report you are going to study is a result of painstaking research, study and comparative analysis. The report was based on broader consensus and that is why government deems it necessary to prioritise the study of its recommendations for implementation,” Mustapha said.

The committee is expected to complete the assignment and submit its report within eight weeks.

life pensions after leaving the office.

Also, the speaker and the deputy speaker are to enjoy foreign medical trips and brand new vehicles after every four years.

“There shall be paid pension to person who held office as speaker and deputy speaker equal to the emoluments of a serving speaker and deputy speaker, provided that either the speaker or the deputy do not hold any paid elective or selective appointment.’’

In part of the new law, any speaker or deputy that is removed by the members will not benefit from the pension and other perks provided by the law.

It states that “Any person duly elected as Speaker or Deputy Speaker shall, on completion of his term be entitled to a grant of pension for life by the state, provided that such person was not removed from office through impeachment by members of the House of Assembly.

“Pension shall be payable to the speaker or deputy speaker at the expiration of the tenure of the holder of the office.

“Where the Speaker or Deputy vacates office before the expiration of the term of his office, not as a result of impeachment, he shall be paid pension pro-rata the number of years he spent in relation to his tenure of office.

“Where the Speaker or Deputy Speaker dies in office before the expiration

of the term of his tenure, he shall be paid pension pro-rata the number of years he spent in relation to his tenure of office.

“There shall be provided for the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker a brand new vehicle to be bought by the state government every four years.

“There shall be provided for the Speaker and the deputy speaker medical expenses either home or abroad depending on the nature of the illness.”

DEEPENING KNOWLEDGE…

L-R: Rev. Father Anthony Ewherido; Author of the book, Francis Ewherido; his wife, Florence; Book reviewer, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada; Chief presenter, Mr. Chuka Eche; Chairman of occasion, Chief Johnson Barovbe; Hon. Temi Harriman; Urhobo Progress Union President General, Olorogun Moses Taiga, at the presentation of ‘Life Lessons from Mudipapa,’ in Lagos …recently

Court Dismisses AGF’s Objection to MTN’s N3bn Suit Davidson Iriekpen The Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday dismissed a preliminary objection by the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) challenging a N3billion suit by MTN Nigeria.

MTN sued the AGF for demanding N242 billion and $1.3 billion as import duties and withholding tax assessments from it.

By a September 10, 2018 writ, MTN is challenging the legality of the AGF’s assessment of the import duties, withholding tax and value-added tax.

But the AGF, in the preliminary objection, argued that the suit was statute-barred, thus robbing the court of jurisdiction.

Arguing the motion on March 26, AGF’s counsel Mr. Tijani Gazali urged the court to strike out the suit

on the ground that it was instituted outside the time prescribed by law.

The AGF contended that the suit disregarded Section 2 of the Public Officers Protection Act, which provides that any lawsuit against a public officer must be filed within three months of cause of action.

He said rather than MTN responding to the demand, it filed the case.

But the MTN through its counsel Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), who led Damia Dodo (SAN) and Prof Fabian Ajogwu (SAN), argued that the AGF’s objection was unfounded.

MTN’s lawyers maintained that the AGF’s contentions were unacceptable and unknown to law.

They argued that the cause of action actually crystalised when the AGF made a demand of MTN and threatened the company with

court action on August 20.

Ruling, Justice Chukwujekwu Aneke held that the suit was not statute-barred.

“The pertinent question to ask is: when did the cause of action arise? Is it on May 21, 2018 when the plaintiff received the defendant’s letter dated May 10, 2018, or on August 23, 2018 when it received the defendant’s demand letter dated August 20, 2018?

“In my view, paragraph 24 among other paragraphs of the plaintiff’s statement of claim is germane in resolving this issue.

MTN avers that the AGF afforded it insufficient time to respond to its queries.

“Judging from the plaintiff’s writ of summons and statement of claim as I am concerned to do, it will seem to me that the plaintiff’s

cause of action with respect to this suit arose on August 23, 2018 when the plaintiff received the defendant’s letter of demand dated August 20, 2018, and not May 21, 2018 when it received the demand letter of May 10, 2018.

“From the endorsement on the writ, this suit was commenced on September 10, 2018.

“A simple calculation shows that from August 23, 2018 when cause of action arose to September 10, 2018 when the suit was instituted, a period of three months had not expired as envisaged for the suit to be statute-barred,” he said.

The court held that the irresistible conclusion to be drawn is that the suit was not statute-barred “The preliminary objection is hereby dismissed in its entirety,” Justice Aneke held.

AMORC Holds Public Lecture on I Paid N5m Ransom to My Abductors, Says OAU Lecturer Spirituality for Social Justice Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

In continuation of the series of annual symposiums and public seminars on topical issues bordering on the spiritual evolution of the human race, the Lagos Zone of the Rosicrucian Order (AMORC), will on Saturday, May 11, 2019, hold a public lecture on Spirituality for Social Justice.

The lecture, scheduled to hold at Isis Temple Hall at 64 Adeshiyan Street, Ilupeju (By First Bank), is part of AMORC’s sustained efforts to enhance a better understanding of spiritual and natural laws as it relates to mankind.

The foremost event, which has

sub-themes such as Spirituality and Social Justice Across Myths and Cultures, Leadership and Spirituality – The Missing Link, and Spirituality for Social Justice – Individual Roles and Responsibilities, will be anchored by seasoned scholars.

According to a statement issued by the group, the President, National Board of AMORC, Nigeria, and Director, Supreme Grand Lodge of AMORC, Dr. Kenneth Idiodi, will be the Special Guest of Honour at the occasion, “which promises to be a gathering of several dignitaries from all walks of life.”

An orthopaedic surgeon at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Prof. Olayinka Adegbehingbe, who was kidnapped on Sunday, has revealed that N5.045 million was paid to secure his release.

Adegbehingbe disclosed this yesterday in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at his residence in the university.

The surgeon, who said he was hale and healthy, attributed his release to the power of God.

According to him, the kidnappers had demanded N30 million and later collected N5.045 million for his release after much negotiation.

He condemned the level of insecurity across the country, saying majority of the youths are jobless and have now resorted to crime.

“The federal government needs to invest more in security; we need to know the identity of people coming in and going out of the town, state and the country at large.

“The people who abducted

me were Fulani herdsmen and they had four guns and multiple rounds of ammunition as well as different dangerous weapons, ” he said.

He called for community policing as well as provision of employment for the youths, adding that, “idle hands are the devil’s workshop.’’

“I also thank the security operatives, the entire OAU and OAUTHC communities, our families, church members and all other well wishers for their prayers and other support

rendered,’’ he added.

President of the Nigeria Medical Association in Osun State, Prof. Oluwole Komolafe, expressed gratitude to God for the release of Adegbehingbe.

“The federal government should look into the issue of security across the country so that citizens would have rest of mind,’’ he said.

Prof. Rasaq Adebayo, another colleague of Adegbehingbe and consultant cardiologist at OAU Teaching Hospital Complex, attributed the release to God’s intervention.

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NLC Moves against Ngige, to Picket Labour Ministry Today Minister: I won’t be intimidated Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) is to picket the offices of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, including all places of interest to the Minister, Dr. Chris Ngige, for failing to inaugurate the board of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF).

This is even as the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Nwachukwu Obidiwe, has responded to the NLC’s threat, saying the ministry will not succumb to the labour union’s blackmail on the issue.

In a statement issued yesterday, the minister’s aide said: “Minister of Labour and Employment can neither be intimidated by blackmail nor by hooliganism. Certainly, Senator Ngige cannot be derailed by roguish unionism from carrying out his legitimate duties as directed by the President”.

The labour movement said workers will assemble at the NLC headquarters, Labour House in Abuja by 7a.m tomorrow before embarking on the picketing mission.

Addressing journalists yesterday on the dispute affecting the inauguration of the NSITF board, the NLC President, Ayuba Wabba, said that the grouse of the labour movement is the refusal of the Minister to inaugurate the board of NSITF and the National Labour

Advisory Council (NLAC).

He also said that the organised labour was displeased that despite the reconstitution of the NSITF board and the appointment of Chief Frank Kokori as the chairman of the board of the NSITF by President Muhammadu Buhari, the Minister has continued to delay its inauguration.

Wabba accused Ngige of delaying the inauguration of the board of NSITF in order to prolong his control of the agency as a sole administrator.

He accused Ngige of employing propaganda and playing ethnic card in an effort to arm-twist the NLC into submission.

According to Wabba, contrary to the minister’s position that Kokori has been replaced as the chairman of the NSITF board, President Buhari has not approved any such decision.

“Since Ngige has vowed to deploy every public resource possible to rob workers of representation on the board of the NSITF, we wish to announce our intention to meet him headlong.

We will make the industrial space uncomfortable for him as we will picket him anywhere we see him,” he said.

Speaking further on the controversy trailing the setting up of the NSITF board, Wabba said that despite the directive of the

federal government through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, that all federal boards be inaugurated, the minister has adopted all manner of subterfuge to frustrate the inauguration of the board of the NSITF. He regretted that NSITF has operated for over four years without a board, adding that as an agency in charge of administering workers’ fund meant for their welfare and compensation of victims of work-related accidents, it is not out of place for NLC to insist that it is transparently managed.

He said that Kokori was appointed based on merit as a renowned labour activist and pro-democracy advocate and someone who will not be compromised.

He further said: “As representatives of workers, we are responsible people and we have a duty to tell Ngige that the roller coaster ride ceased being funny a long time ago. We are disturbed that Ngige apparently derives some strange kick in second guessingandunderminingthedecisions of Mr. President.

“This is really unfortunate as it betrays a persistent strain of disloyalty, mischief, deceit and contempt not only forPresidentBuhari but also against Nigerian workers and public”.

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Election Observers Confident in South African Elections, Says Jonathan The Head of the Election Observer Mission of the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa (EISA), former President Goodluck Jonathan, has stated that the observer mission has confidence in the South African elections, based on what they have observed so far.

Speaking to the SABC News at the Independent Electoral Commission’s Results Operation Centre in Pretoria, South Africa, Jonathan said the body that manages the elections plays an important role in ensuring safe and successful elections.

“This year’s election appears to be one of the strongest contested elections so far in the history of SA democracy and everybody is interested in the outcome. We have observed some of the rallies and we are quite comfortable how things are going.

“The key thing about elections is the body managing the election and of course the security, the police. If the stakeholders, the political parties have confidence in these two organisations, then of course we are quite hopeful,” he said.

The former President also expressed optimism that the management of elections is improving across the continent.

“I have gone to many African nations as leader of different observation missions, including the Commonwealth, African Union, National Democratic Institute, and of course EISA and I am quite impressed and hopeful that the standard of managing of our elections will continue to improve.”

According to him, the trend of well managed elections would bring about marked

improvement in leadership and development on the continent.

“I believe that if we improve our standard of elections we will get to that point where people, using their vote, can remove a leader they feel is not leading them well.”

Jonathan who admitted that young people have a role to play in governance however, added that the issue of leadership in Africa should not focus on age alone but on competence and ability of leaders to understand new trends in the areas of governance and information technology, especially in the age of knowledge-based economy.

“Good leadership does not depend on age alone. It has to do with the individual...

The key thing is being able to lead your country well,” he added.

Wamakko Wants Tribunal to Strike out Petition against His Election Onuminya InnocentinSokoto Senator Aliyu Wamakko has urged the national and states assemblies Election Petitions Tribunal in Sokoto to strike out the petition filed by the candidate of People Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 Sokoto North senatorial district election, Senator Ahmed Mohammed Maccido, ‘as it was filed out of the required constitutional time.’

Maccido has filed a petition before the tribunal challenging the declaration of the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Wamakko, as the winner of the poll declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The lead counsel for the first respondent (Wamakko), Dr. Hassan Liman SAN, has however in an application prayed the court to strike out the said petition filed

by Maccido.

Liman further submitted that the petition was filed out of time and that it contravenes the provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended.

According to him, “Section 285, sub section 5 of the constitution requires such petitions to be filed 21 days after the date of the declaration of the results of the election.

“The petitioner filed the petition on March 18, 2019, which is clearly outside the 21 days required by the law.

“We have therefore urged the tribunal to strike out the petition, no

matter how good it is. Wamakko has won his election validly in accordance with the provisions of the constitution.”

Both the lead counsel of the second respondent (APC), Chief Jacob Ochidi, and that of the third respondent (INEC), Henry Eni-Otu, aligned themselves with the submissions of Liman, and urged the court to strike out the petition.

Lead counsel for Maccido, Ibrahim Abdullahi, had argued that the petition was filed within the stipulated time.

The tribunal Chairman, Justice Peter Akhimie Akhihiero, adjourned the pre-hearing session to May, 10, 2019, for continuation.

Okowa Declares State of Emergency on Water, Sanitation in Delta ’FG determined to end open defecation by 2025’ Omon-Julius OnabuinAsaba Confronted by the enormity of water and environmental challenges in Delta State, the state Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, yesterday in Asaba declared a ‘state of emergency’ in the water and sanitation sectors.

The governor also assumed the chairmanship of a high-powered steering committee on the state water and sanitation hygiene (WASH) services, which he launched, and will soon swing into operation.

This is coming at a time experts have expressed the need for relevant authorities in Nigeria to take urgent steps in addressing the challenges of growing open defecation which has further aggravated the country’s health problems.

The governor noted that a lot is required for Nigeria to provide adequate public water and sanitation facilities for it growing population, while assuring them that the water and sanitation sectors were receiving more attention with regards to funding.

Inaugurating the steering committee for the Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene Services

(WASH) yesterday, Okowa said the committee would “proffer effective reforms as well as formulate policies to end open defecation.”

According to the governor, “In the next four years, we will increase the allocation to water and sanitation sectors and hold those in the sectors accountable as we intend to have good value for any money released. ‘’Water, as the saying goes, is life, but regrettably, we have not done enough collectively as a country in the provision of public water and sanitation facilities for our ever growing population.

“Available statistics from the UNICEF-WHO Joint Monitoring Programme (JMP) shows that access to pipe-borne water in household in urban areas declined from 32 percent in 1990 to less than 10 percent in 2015, and in the same token, access to improved sanitation dropped from 38 percent to 29 percent. This clearly suggests an erosion of WASH utility service coverage, and it is shocking that while population is increasing, WASH asset is depleting.

“Nigeria currently ranks second in the world after India in terms of people defecating in the open, as about 25 percent of our population

still practices open defecation. The Sustainable Development Goals 6.1 and 6.2 seek to stop open defecation by 2025 and ensure access to sustainable and safely managed WASH services by 2030.”

While thanking President Muhammadu Buhari for declaring state of emergency on the revitalisation of WASH services, Okowa threw his weight behind the strategies contained in the National Action Plan of the federal government.

The governor also thanked the European Union, UNICEF and USAID for their support and various interventions on the improvement of the state WASH services since the beginning of his administration.

The Minister of Water Resources, Suleiman Adamu, had in an address read by Mr. Osikela Omo-Ikirodah, commended the Okowa’s administration for declaring the state of emergency, assuring him that such has opened the state for financial and technical assistance from the federal government which is determined to end open defecation in Nigeria by 2025.

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DHQ Denies Secret Retirement of 200 Christian Army Officers Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) yesterday denied reports that 200 Christian officers were secretly retired by the Nigerian Army recently.

It also debunked insinuations that there was unease and disquiet in the military over the development.

A statement issued by Acting Director, Defence Information (DDI), Col. Onyema Nwachukwu, said allegations of lopsided recruitment, postings, appointments and retirement of military personnel by the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) were unfounded.

The statement entitled: “Re: Secret Premature Retirement of Christian Officers,” said the reports, without recourse to the truth, accused the Nigerian Army of systematic retirement of over 200 officers from a particular geo-political zone and religion in the first quarter of 2019.

“It is imperative to correct the erroneous impression being created in the mind of some members of the public.

Therefore, it is important to reiterate that postings, appointments and retirements in the military are routine activities and common public

knowledge.

“Every officer, soldier, rating, airman or woman on commission or enlistment into the services look forward to an exciting, adventurous and rewarding career in the Armed Forces and most importantly knows exactly when he or she is due to retire,” he said.

Nwachukwu said “officers, soldiers, ratings, airmen and women are not only conscious of this but look forward to it.

Personnel often retire based on age on rank or length of service.

“In the event of approaching retirement, the affected person or persons are given adequate notice and also prepared for life after service through training programmes at either the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, or Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, Oshodi.

“Therefore, it is irresponsible for anyone to allege that such exercises were targeted at a particular ethnic group or religion”.

The statement said the publication was sponsored by unpatriotic individuals and ignorant elements while maintaining that there was no such situation that would bring about “unease or disquiet” in

the military as contained in the report.

“Similarly, recruitment and enlistment into the Armed Forces of Nigeria have always been made known to the public and follows transparent and well known procedures that are in line with best practices.

“We expected the writer to make effort of finding out the truth before misleading

unsuspecting members of the public through such publication. He should have taken advantage of the various public affairs departments of the Services to enquire about such issues”, he said.

Defence Headquarters said “although we are not mindful of the fact that such write-ups are sponsored by some obviously unpatriotic

and ignorant elements, it is instructive to state that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain the cohesive and bastion of national unity and no amount of campaign of calumny would change that.

Such things are alien and blasphemous in the military.

“More also, the allegation of “unease and disquiet in the military formation” is not only

untrue, but sheer mischief.

“The public is implored to please disregard such insinuations as there are proper career plan and progression in the military, therefore, there is no such thing like premature retirement or deliberate attempt to cleanse a particular ethnic or religious group in any of the services”.

Buhari Has Admitted Failure on Security, Says PDP Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said that President Muhammadu Buhari had admitted failure following his confession that anger, frustration and disenchantment among the youths were responsible for the escalation of kidnapping, abduction and other crimes in the country.

The party said Nigerians were shocked at Buhari’s insensitivity to the victims of bloodletting, kidnapping, banditry and other acts of violence in the country when he trivialised and made a joke of the insecurity in the land

by stating that losing weight is a sign that the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Adamu Mohammed, was effectively tackling the security issues.

The PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan, in a statement issued yesterday, said that this self-confession by the president was equally an admission that he has no solution, pointing to the ugly situation that would continue to confront the country, if the alleged stolen presidential mandate is not retrieved in the courts.

“Is it not appalling that at a time when other world leaders are leading their youths to constructive and

productive ventures and developing their nations, Nigerian youths are being pushed into situations of anger, frustration and recourse to criminality?

“Under President Buhari, our national economy has continued to slide; over 30 million Nigerians have lost their jobs and basic means of livelihood; businesses have continued to shut down; cost of essential goods and services have persistently soared, while purchasing power of citizens worsen.

“It is more disheartening that instead of finding solutions, Mr. President resorted to rhetoric and begging the question to the

extent of describing criminality as a new occupation and a business.

“It is most heartbreaking that at the time President Buhari was making a joke on the security situation, bandits were having a field day in communities in Zamfara State where they reportedly killed over 50 Nigerians, while many more compatriots are still held hostage by kidnappers in forests in various parts of our country,” he added The main opposition party lamented that such attitude to governance, especially on issues that have to do with the lives of Nigerians, is completely unacceptable and must be condemned by all.

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Afenifere Kicks against MTN’s ‘Non-inclusive’ Appointments Telecoms giant completes registration of shares with SEC Emma Okonji The Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, has faulted the two recent major appointments made by the telecommunications giant, MTN, describing them as non-inclusive.

This development is coming as the company yesterday announced the successful completion of the registration of its ordinary shares with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

The completion of the registration process of 20,354,513,050 ordinary shares of N0.02 each with SEC, sets in motion the next steps in MTN’s intended listing by introduction on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE).

In a statement issued yesterday

by Afenifere’s General Secretary, Mr. Yinka Odumakin, the socio-cultural organisation said the appointments of the Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, as a member of MTN’s Board of Directors, and Dr. Aisha Abdullahi, a former commissioner in Bauchi State, into the International Advisory Board, would not have not raised an eyebrow if these periods were normal seasons in Nigeria.

“Our first major concern is that though MTN is a private company, these choices tend to mirror the skewedness that has characterised public sector appointments in Nigeria in the last four years and have drawn serious flaks.

“Our secondary worry is that the MTN Group seeming pandering to the non-inclusivity that has pervaded national affairs in Nigeria may not be unconnected with the infractions the Nigerian government has alleged against the telecommunications company which have yet to be resolved.

“The MTN should have been more sensitive to its market base in Nigeria before taking decisions along the parochial trend in public service in Nigeria at the moment.

“The NBS quarterly communications report titled ‘Telecoms Data: Active Voice and Internet per State, Porting and Tariff Information (Q2 2018)’, showed that Lagos State has the highest number of subscribers in terms of active voice per state and closely followed by Ogun State,”Afenifere explained.

“In terms of active internet per state for the period, Lagos also has the top spot followed by Ogun and the FCT.

“How come MTN cannot find suitable Nigerians to be on its board from the area of the country where its highest subscriptions come from?”

Afenifere queried.

Meanwhile, the company has announced the successful completion of the registration of its ordinary shares with the SEC. Speaking on the announcement, MTN Nigeria’s CEO, Ferdi Moolman, said: “I am excited we have achieved another milestone in our listing process and want to thank

the SEC and the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) for supporting us through the process. We have now begun to engage with the Nigerian Stock Exchange to complete the listing process.”

The company had changed its status from a private company to a public liability company (PLC) ahead of its listing on the NSE. This conversion is one of the requirements for listing on the exchange.

EFCC Arraigns Former Bank Manager for N187m Fraud The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Enugu Zonal Office, yesterday arraigned a former acting branch manager of a new generation bank, Oliver Anidiobi, before Justice C.O. Ajah of the state’s High Court, Enugu, over a N187 million fraud.

Anidiobi who was also the Account Relationship Officer of OHHA Microfinance Bank, is facing a 32-count charge bordering on forgery and stealing from the microfinance bank.

Investigations by the commission revealed that he used his position to convince the bank to deposit the said amount with him, with an accompanying letter of instruction (which he acknowledged) to the bank. The investigation also revealed that fixed the amount on behalf of the microfinance bank, only for him to forge a ‘Fixed Deposit Certificate’ as evidence of their investment.

He, thereafter, upon receipt of several instalments of the money totaling N187 million diverted the money to his personal use to build a two-storey building of five flats, several plots of land along EnuguPort Harcourt Expressway and an uncompleted four bedroom bungalow at Centenary Estate, Enugu. He also made an

investment of over N65 million.

The suspect’s journey to the dock began when OHHA Microfinance Bank decided to liquidate their two fixed deposits only to discover that there was no record of the transactions found in the system.

One of the counts against him reads: “Anidiobi Oliver Chukwuka, sometime between August 15, 2014 and August 28, 2014 in Enugu, within the jurisdiction of this court, did commit a felony to wit: stealing by fraudulently converting to your personal use, the aggregate sum of N5 million naira only, being property of OHHA Microfinance Bank Limited and thereby committed an offence.”

He pleaded “not guilty” to the charges.

However, in view of the plea, the defense counsel, O.A.U. Onyema, informed the court that he had an application for the bail of the defendant, but the prosecuting counsel, Micheal Ani, told the court that “the defense just served me in court this morning some few minutes ago”.

Justice Ajah, after listening to both counsels adjourned the matter to June 7, 2019 for hearing of the bail application and ordered that he be remanded in prison.

Judge’s Absence Stalls Trial of Akingbola Davidson Iriekpen A Federal High Court in Lagos yesterday adjourned until June 3, the money laundering trial of a former Managing Director of the defunct Intercontinental Bank Plc, Erastus Akingbola.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) charged Akingbola with amended 22 counts, bordering on money laundering.

He, however, pleaded not guilty on re-arraignment in March.

The case, which was slated for continuation of trial yesterday, could not proceed as the judge was said to be on another official assignment.

The EFCC accused the defendant of converting an aggregate sum of $1.3 million and $8.5 million, taken from the bank’s GBP NOSTRO account at Deutsche Bank in London.

The sum was said to have been remitted into the account of Fuglers Solicitors with the Royal Bank of Scotland in London, to purchase property in the name of Life Boat Settlement Trust allegedly set up by the defendant.

According to the EFCC, the defendant knew that the sums represented proceeds of crime.

The alleged offences contravene the provisions of Sections 105(1) and 105(a), of the Investment and Securities Act, 2007.

They also contravene the provisions of Sections 13 (1), 15(1) (a) and 28(3) of the Banks and Other Financial Institutions Act, Cap B3, Laws of the Federation, 2004.

One of the offences contravenes the provisions of Sections 14(1) of the Money Laundering Prohibition Act, 2004.

WELL DESERVED AWARD…

Head, Media Relations, Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, Moses Duku (left), receiving Nigerian Union of Journalists award from Managing Director, Enentis, Dr. Peter Ademu-Eteh, in Abuja…recently

Akwa Ibom Election Tribunal Rejects PDP’s Request to Stop APC from Inspecting Election Material Okon Bassey in Uyo The National Assembly Elections Petition Tribunal in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, yesterday turned down the request of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Senatorelect in the Akwa Ibom North West senatorial district, Chris Ekpeneyong, to vacate the petition of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, on the March 23, 2019, senatorial election in the area.

The tribunal had on April 2, 2019, granted an exparte order to Akpabio and the All Progressives Congress (APC) for inspection of materials in the custody of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

But a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and the lead counsel to the PDP senator-elect, Solomon Umoh, approached the tribunal, praying it to set aside the order

earlier granted Akpabio to inspect election materials used during the senatorial election in the district.

The PDP had in a counter order urged the tribunal to bar the APC and Akpabio from inspecting electoral materials used in the senatorial elections in the district.

Counsel to the PDP, Umoh, had prayed the tribunal to dismiss Akpabio’s petition in its entirety as well as set aside the petitioner’s request for inspection and forensic analysis of election materials.

He had maintained that the inspection process of the election materials has been prejudice, saying the “only grounds of obtaining an order must be by motion on notice,” which he noted the respondents failed to file.

Ruling on the PDP application, the Chairman of the tribunal, Justice W. O. Akanbi, declared that the request by the respondent for the inspection order to be reverse was

an act alien to law.

The tribunal chairman agreed with counsel to Akpabio, Sunday I. Ameh SAN, that Ekpenyong and the PDP suffered no prejudice having been invited to be part of the inspection process.

According to Akanbi, the PDP counsel only succeeded in “hellraising technicalities to waste the time of the tribunal.”

He said Akpabio’s demand for inspection of electoral materials and the tribunal order granting same are in line with the provisions of Section 151 sub-sections 1 and 2 of the Electoral Act. The tribunal chairman, while dismissing PDP’s argument that the exparte order for the inspection does not align with the provisions of the Electoral Act, noted that any order from a court of competent jurisdiction in relation to the inspection is valid because the Electoral Act does not

specify which order should be accommodated or rejected.

The tribunal also declared that PDP’s motion for an order to stop forensic analysis of the election materials was lacking in merit because any party in court is at liberty to any of its preferred method of inspection.

“Any party is at liberty to adopt any method of inspection. The parties involved in an election can choose to bring in forensic experts. The inspection can also be manually done. Even if the inspection is done with laboratory equipment, the law is okay with that,” the tribunal asserted, and likened the PDP’s action to “crying wolf where there is none.”

In an interview with journalists after the ruling, Umoh, who stood in for the petitioner’s lead counsel, Mr. Sunday Ameh SAN, said the ruling had deepened judicial practice.

Nwankwo to Speak on Infrastructure Deficit at Third JFCN Lecture Immediate past Director General of Debt Management Office (DMO), Dr. Abraham Nwankwo, will be the Guest Speaker at the 3rd Just Friends Club of Nigeria Annual Lecture.

A statement signed by the club’s President, Chief

JN Green-Amakwe , said the former DMO boss will speak on “Resolving the Infrastructure Deficit in Nigeria – A Pragmatic Approach.”

The lecture holds on May 16, 2019 at Lezsco Luxury Apartments, 14 Otuoke Street, Asokoro Zone D, Off Gimbiya

Street, Area 11, Abuja.

The Chairman of the occasion is the Director General of Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC.), Mr. Chidi Izuwah.

The discussants are Mrs. Eugenia Abu, one of Nigeria’s

frontline broadcast journalists and former Executive Director (Programmes), NTA; and Mallam Sanusi Ibrahim Sule, the Director of the Department of Infrastructure & Public-Private Partnership (I&PPP) at the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE).

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T H I S D AY ˾ WEDNESDAY, MAY 8, 2019

WEDNESDAYSPORTS

ÜÙßÚ ÚÙÜÞÝ ÎÓÞÙÜ˝ Duro Ikhazuagbe ×ËÓÖ˝ duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com 08111813083

PREMIERSHIP

Iheanacho’s Missed Chance against City Causes Buzz on Twitter Duro Ikhazuagbe Kelechi Iheanacho’s 87th minute missed chance on Monday night to level scores for Leicester City and put spanner into Manchester City’s ambition to retain the English Premier League title back-to-back has received backlash from angry Liverpool fans on social media.

If Iheanacho had scored that begging chanced deep into the Premiership game at Etihad, the Citizens would have been trailing Liverpool on 93 points going into Sunday’s final round of matches rather than the edge of 95 points they enjoy now.

But most of the fans who pilloried the former Manchester city forward for his tepid play that went wide off mark insinuated that Iheanacho may have done his former club the favour to enable them win the trophy.

Iheanacho who moved from City in 2017, was put through clear on goal in the dying moments by Hamza Choudhury but he dragged his effort well wide of the post with just Ederson in goal for City to beat.

He could have come back to haunt his former side but instead City go into the final round of fixtures ahead of Liverpool in the title race with

that stunning 30-yard kick by Vincent Kompany.

After that enthralling match, football fans - including those from Liverpool - flocked to social media to poke fun of Iheanacho.

One Liverpool supporter, devastated by the last-gasp miss, joked on Twitter: “That must be Iheanacho’s best game for Man City.”

Another social media user wrote: “Iheanacho should receive a Premier League medal after his shocking miss.”

Another football fan said on Twitter: “Petition to investigate Iheanacho’s miss incoming.”

But the teasing didn’t stop there, with plenty more fans taking to Twitter to voice either their frustration or delight depending on which camp they sit in.

Longclaw (@somtozil) May 6, 2019 noted: “City selling Iheanacho for him to miss a sitter to help them win the league 2 years.”

One Manchester United fan, Scott Banks (@Twatots) May 6, 2019 clearly pleased with the result, joked: “Iheanacho couldn’t bear the thought of listening to Liverpool supporters for the next 40 years either.

Good lad.”

“Someone needs to investigate

Leicester City’s Kelechi Iheanacho (second right), was not spared by angry Liverpool fans on social media shortly after he missed the chance to equalise Manchester City’s 1-0 lead deep into the crucial clash at Etihad…on Monday night

that, Iheanacho didn’t want to score there,” another football fan alleged following the final whistle.

Iheanacho’s miss allowed Pep Guardiola’s men to hold on to their crucial advantage and they will be confident of

Man Utd Fans Want Ndidi at OldTrafford Next Season Manchester United supporters have urged their club to make a move for Nigeria and Leicester City midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi in the summer transfer window.

United are set for a busy few months ahead as Ole

Gunnar Solskjaer looks to overhaul his squad and mount a serious challenge for Champions League qualification.

It seems like central midfield is one area in particular which United need to strengthen with

Ander Herrera poised to leave the club at the end of the season.

If Herrera’s exit does materializes, United supporters believe the Leicester central midfielder could be the ideal man to take his place at Old Trafford.

Although many Leicester players impressed supporters with their resilient display against Man City on Monday night, it was the performance from Ndidi which really got fans excited.

LMC Fines El-Kanemi N3m, Ordered to Play behind Closed Gates El-Kanemi Warriors FC has been imposed several sanctions including a three match-day closure of their stadium to fans following disturbances that occurred during and after the Match Day 17 fixture against Go Round FC of Port Harcourt.

The League Management Company (LMC) in exercise of Summary Jurisdiction notice signed by its Chief Operating Officer, Salihu Abubakar, the league body charged the Maiduguri club for breaches of sections of the Framework and Rules including Rule B13.18 and B13.52.2.

The charge read, “you are in breach of the Framework and Rules of the Nigeria Professional Football League, in that on Sunday,

5th May 2019, in the course of your Match Day 17 Fixture: El-Kanemi Warriors vs. Go Round, some of your supporters severally threw objects including water sachets, plastic bottles and stones towards Match Officials and towards the field of play” In the second charge, El-Kanemi Warriors was also found in breach of Rule B13.52.2 for failing to ensure restriction of access by unauthorized persons to restricted areas as some supporters gained access to the dressing room and interferred with the Referee.

On a third count, the club was charged with breaching of Rule B13.18 in that some of their supporters encroached onto and harassed the visiting team

and Match Officials, preventing them from exiting the field of play immediately after the match.

Consequently, the LMC imposed financial sanctions ranging from N1m for throwing objects at Match Officials in breach of Rule B13.18, N1m for failure to ensure restriction of access by unauthorized persons to restricted areas, in breach of Rule B13.52.2, N1m for encroachment onto the field of play immediately after the match, in breach of Rule B13.18 and N250,000 to be paid as compensation to the referee for assault pursuant to Rule C12.

The LMC ordered El-Kanemi Warriors to play its next three home matches behind closed doors based on the previous

Eagles Striker, Onuachu, on Cusp of Nigerian Record in Denmark Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu is on the cusp of breaking an eight-year-old Nigerian record for the country’s top scorer in the history of the Danish Superliga and this could happen before the end of the 2018/2019 campaign, amid speculation linking him with an exit from FC Midtjylland in the summer.

Onuachu, who is Nigeria’s leading scorer in the European Leagues with 16 goals ahead of Wolfsburg loanee Victor Osimhen, bagged a brace in the 2-1 win at

FC Nordsjaelland on April 29.

And in doing so, the lanky striker took his tally in the Danish Superliga to 50 goals since making his debut.

With 52 goals in 108 appearances in the Danish top flight, only ex-Nigeria international Peter Utaka has scored more goals in the division than Onuachu, with his last goal netted on December 5, 2001 vs SönderjyskE. Onuachu’s most productive season was back in the 2016-2017 campaign when he ended with

17 goals to his name, while he tallied 10 goals in the 2017-2018 season, 6 in 2015-2016 and only one in the 2014-2015 campaign.

FC Midtjylland face FC Copenhagen, Brondby and Esbjerg in their last three league games of the season, and Onuachu has a chance to rewrite history by setting a new Nigerian goalscoring record.

Sylvester Igboun is Nigeria’s third highest goal-scorer in the history of the Danish Superliga with 41 goals in 147 appearances.

order of suspended sentence in the wake of disturbances after the Match-day 4 fixture against Nasarawa United.

El-Kanemi Warriors are also to organise a Supporters Education and Orientation workshop to be supervised by the LMC to inculcate in the fans the values of fair play, friendship and orderly conduct which football promotes.

The club has 48 hours from the date of the notice to submit to the ruling or elect to appear before a Disciplinary Commission. “Any such decision must be communicated in writing to the office of the Chief Operating Officer of the LMC,” concludes the statement from LMC last night.

securing the Premier League title on Sunday.

Man City is to travel to Brighton needing a win to

defend their top-flight crown, while Liverpool host Wolves at Anfield in what should be a brilliant finale to the season.

LSSTF Rolls out Plans to Make Lagos Flagship of Sports Devt The Lagos State Sports Trust Fund (LSSTF), the first of its type in Nigeria yesterday unfolded its programme aimed at making the state the flagship of sports development in the country.

The LSSTF board inaugurated last March by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode is led by the former Deputy Governor of Lagos, Olufemi Pedro and has 11 other members to pilot its affairs. It is the first of its kind in sub-Sahara Africa Speaking at a media session in Lagos yesterday, Pedro highlighted the vision, mission and core values of the LSSTF as what differentiate it from any previous attempt by any agency to assist in the development of human capacity and infrastructure in the state.

“The Lagos State Sports Trust Fund is set up to promote sports by creating state-wide sport awareness to ensure increased interest, participation and sustainability of sporting activities in the state.

“We are also out to help raise

funds and generate adequate funding for sports development in the state through effective fund-raising strategies and tactics.

“The LSSTF will also manage the funds in a judicious way, simply put, we will adequately manage sports funds in the state.

We also have plans to build and maintain six standard sports centres in Lagos State.

“We are created primarily to play a critical role in financing the development and promotion of sports, sporting activities and facilities in the state because we appreciate the relative importance of sports in wealth creation, job creation and general economic development.”

Pedro further revealed that the body has developed a blueprint for sports development in Lagos State.

Also on the 12-man board is Wahid Enitan Oshodi, a former sports commissioner in Lagos State who is also the President of the Africa- Western Region of the International Table Tennis Federation.

Kwara United F. C Bill Passes 2nd Reading Hammed Shittu ÓØ ÖÙÜÓØ A bill for a law to provide for the proper management of Kwara United Football Club, Ilorin has passed through second reading at the floor of the state’s House of Assembly.

The development, according to THISDAY checks, might not be unconnected with the recent resignation of the Chief Coach of the Kwara United Football club, Ilorin, Mr. Abubakar Bala.

The club has not been performing well in the ongoing Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season.

Kwara United F. C have not won any of their last three league

games.

The club lost at home to Rangers International of Enugu 2-1 in a re-scheduled fixture and another disappointing 3-0 outing with Enyimba International of Aba. They also drew their last two home matches goalless with Bendel Insurance FC of Benin and Lobi Stars of Makurdi.

However, at the sitting of the House yesterday, the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Youth, Sports, Tourism and Culture and member representing Ilorin North West Constituency, Hon. Abdul-Rafiu Abdul-Rahman, said the bill will provide

management for the football club to ensure continuity and effective running of the outfit.

The bill, according to him, will also provide for Chairman, Executive Secretary and members of the Board as well as monitor its finances to ensure optimum performance.

In their contributions, the House Leader Hon. Hassan Oyeleke and member representing Kaiama/ Kemanji/Wajibe Constituency, Hon Ahmed Ibn Mohammed, expressed confidence that the law which according to them, was long overdue, will guide its operation, as it had been operating before now on ad-hoc basis.

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WEDNES Ëœ ÍśËœ Ͱ͎ͯ͡ Ëž T H I S D AY

WEDNESDAYSPORTS

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Liverpool Stun Barca in Historic Comeback to Reach Final Liverpool last night produced one of the greatest UEFA Champions League comebacks in history by overturning a three-goal first-leg deficit to beat Barcelona 4-3 on aggregate and reach the final.

After Barcelona won the first leg 3-0 at the Camp Nou, few fans gave Liverpool a chance of scoring the goals they needed to progress, let alone preventing the La Liga champions from scoring themselves.

But an early strike from Divock Origi, who tapped in after Marc-Andre ter Stegen failed to hold Jordan Henderson’s shot, gave the vociferous Anfield crowd the belief that another European fight-back from the Reds could be on the cards.

Liverpool pressed against a lacklustre Barcelona, who struggled to get Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi involved, but the visitors managed to keep the deficit to 1-0 at half-time and leave the hosts with seemingly too much to do in the second half.

However, Georginio Wijnaldum, on as a substitute for the injured Andy Robertson,

made it 2-0 with a low drive nine minutes after the break before the midfielder almost immediately made it 3-0 on the night and 3-3 on aggregate with a superb header.

And Origi, starting the game because of injuries to Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino, completed a remarkable victory for Liverpool when he swept Trent Alexander-Arnold’s low corner into the back of the net late on.

The win means Liverpool are into the Champions League final for a second successive year and they will play either Ajax or Tottenham in Madrid on 1 June.

It was deja vu for Barcelona, who were beaten 3-0 in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final with Roma last year to exit the competition on the away goals rule, having won the first leg 4-1.

But for Liverpool it was another memorable European comeback that ranks alongside their victory against AC Milan in the 2005 final and their 4-3 win against Borussia Dortmund at Anfield three years ago.

Divock Origi (centre) and his Liverpool teammates celebrating the historic comeback to reach the Champions League ďŹ nal ‌ last night

Ajax ‘ConďŹ dent, Fit and Eager’ for Spurs Match A fully fit Ajax Amsterdam will focus on its attacking strengths in their Champions League semifinal second leg against Tottenham Hotspur tonight despite a draw being enough to take them to the final, Coach Erik ten Hag announced yesterday. “We need to win this match tomorrow (Wednesday), that will be our mindsetâ€?, Ten Hag said a pre-match press conference. “We have to stick

to our own strengths.�

Ajax upset Real Madrid and Juventus on their way to the semifinal with a fast, attacking style of play, and initially dominated Tottenham in their 1-0 away win last week.

But the Dutch team, which features several players polished in the club’s famed academy, struggled in the second half in London as Tottenham increased the pressure on their defence. “Our minds were a bit too

much on defending the lead�, Ten Hag said. “But it was also a show of strength by Spurs. It showed we have to cross another frontier on Wednesday. But we are confident we can do it. We are fit and we are eager.�

Ten Hag said his team had no injuries following Sunday’s Cup Final win against Willem II Tilburg, although it was not yet clear whether Brazilian forward David Neres could start the match.

Ajax’s first domestic cup win since 2010 did not interfere with preparations for tonight’s match, the coach said. “The players were happy, but you could see they immediately turned their focus to Wednesday’s match. Everyone knows what this is about.�

Four-time European champions Ajax are looking to reach their first Champions League final since 1996. Many pundits have suggested it has become

Heineken Thrills Seven Consumers with All-expense Paid Trip to Liverpool/Barca Clash Heineken, who has enjoyed a long and successful partnership with UEFA for more than 20 years, sponsored seven fans to watch last night’s UEFA Champions League Semi-final clash between Liverpool and Barcelona at Anfield.

The game was the eighth time Liverpool FC faced FC Barcelona in Europe.

The fans sponsored by Heineken enjoyed the UCL semi-final game with all its tension and emotions.

Apart from the mesmerizing moves of Lionel Messi play, the

eight beneficiaries of Heineken magnanimity also witnessed Liverpool fans react with nostalgia to their former players like Luiz Suarez and Philippe Coutinho on their return to Anfield.

Beyond the euphoria of the game, the lucky fans also had the opportunity to visit Manchester United’s Theatre of Dreams for a stadium tour and other important sites while on the trip.

They will also get the chance to join other English fans who will be cheering Tottenham Hotspur

as they work hard to secure their first UCL final spot when they face Ajax in Amsterdam tonight.

For the first time in a long while, England had all four representatives in the quarterfinals of this edition with Spurs and the Reds proceeding to play in the semis.

Heineken Brand Manager, Olaoluwa Babalola described the trip as an amazing opportunity stressing, : “We are took these fans to witness the UCL in England at a time when fans everywhere

will be ecstatic and in full support of their teams. “We know how special football is to Nigerians and we are using one of the biggest platforms to show that we share that special love. “Heineken is recognized for developing interactive and innovative campaigns and breaking new ground in its approach to marketing. These innovative strategies not only create revolutionary experiences, but also deepen connections with consumers.

Anthony Joshua Warns Wilder, Fury over Fight Delay Anthony Joshua has warned Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury they risk facing a better version of him if frustrating fight negotiations drag on.

Unified world heavyweight champion Joshua faces Andy Ruiz Jr on 1 June.

The 29-year-old says the bout will showcase evolving methods he began to use after beating Wladimir Klitschko. “I’ve got through with strength, guts and heart,� said Joshua. “I’ve got away with mistakes. I realised I couldn’t continue my journey like that.�

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live boxing, Joshua added: “After Klitschko, I thought ‘how many more fights can I have like that before the mistakes aren’t there any more?’ “For the last two years, hand on heart, with my team, we spend so much time doing things outside of boxing, things that can drain me. “How do we now train smart to become smarter in the ring?

Less quantity, more quality. It didn’t happen over night. It has taken two years to implement it and this is the first camp we are really seeing it.

“Look at my last fight against Alexander Povektin. I was ill, tired, had a flu, had a headache.

I was going through changes.

It will be interesting as this is the first time I can express these things. “The longer Wilder and Fury leave it, the tougher it will be for them as I am not the fighter of two years ago.

Give me another year or two and I’ll develop that little bit more.�

Joshua was complimentary of both Fury and WBC champion Wilder’s displays

in their December draw, but BBC Radio 5 Live boxing analyst Steve Bunce believes the assertion he will improve in coming years is a “subtle way to tell them to get to the negotiating table�.

Failed talks with both parties led to Joshua’s team opting to tackle a US breakthrough with his next bout, plans that were hampered briefly when original opponent Jarrell Miller failed drug tests.

American Ruiz has 32 wins from 33 fights going into the Madison Square Garden bout.

impossible for Dutch teams to compete with their much wealthier English, Spanish and Italian peers, but Ten Hag is ignoring them. “A few people who knew this level of success said it would still be possible for a Dutch team to reach the Champions League final; people like Johan Cruijff, Louis van Gaal and (Ajax director) Marc Overmars�, Ten Hag said. “It’s up to us on Wednesday

to prove them right.�

Ajax defender Daley Blind said he had never expected his return to Ajax last summer, after four years at Manchester United, would turn out to be so exciting. “The team has grown tremendously in many aspects this year,� the 29-year old son of former European cup winner and Ajax Captain Danny Blind said. “This really is a team effort, and I am proud to be part of it.�

Tiger Woods Receives Presidential Medal of Freedom from Trump Fifteen-time major winner, Tiger Woods, has been presented with America’s highest civilian honour by President Donald Trump in Washington.

The 43-year-old, who won the Masters at Augusta in April, received the Presidential Medal of Freedom at a White House ceremony.

Trump praised Woods’ “relentless will to win, win, win�. “These qualities embody the American spirit of pushing boundaries and defying limits,� Trump said.

Woods thanked his mother and two children during the ceremony. “You have seen the good and the bad, the highs and the lows,� said Woods. “I would not be in this position without all of your help.�

Woods’ win at Augusta last month was his fifth Masters title and ended an 11-year wait to claim his 15th major.

His first Masters win came at the age of 21, when he celebrated with his father, Earl, who died in 2006. “In 1997, yes, I won the

Masters and I ended up hugging my dad and my mom,� Woods said. “My dad is no longer here but my mom is here, I love you mom. “The amazing Masters experience I just had a few weeks ago certainly is part of the highlight of what I’ve accomplished in my life on the golf course.�

The prize recognises “individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the security or national interests of America, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavours�.

Woods is the fourth golfer to receive the accolade, after Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and the PGA Tour’s first black player, Charlie Sifford.

Woods overcame persistent injury problems - including four back operations culminating in fusion surgery in April 2017 - to win his first major title for over a decade with a one-shot victory at Augusta.

Muhammad Ali, Billie Jean King and Michael Jordan are among other athletes to win the award.

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T H I S D AY ˾ WEDNESDAY MAY 8, 2019

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Wednesday May 8, 2019

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MISSILE

PDP to Police “This is highly provocative, an invitation to anarchy and a recipe for a very serious crisis not only in Osun but also in the judiciary and our nation. The arrest and detention of Senator Adeleke is a direct act of violence against our laws, the institution of the judiciary and the 1999 Constitution.” -The Peoples Democratic Party protesting against the detention of its candidate for last year’s Osun State governorship election, Ademola Adeleke, by the police.

IJEOMANWOGWUGWU BEHIND THE FIGURES

ijeoma.nwogwugwu@thisdaylive.com

Fashola the Unabashed Lobbyist

G

overnment is a continuum, it is often said. As such, nothing stops a new administration (and its officials) and from continuing with the policies and projects started by its predecessor, irrespective of party affiliation or ideology. Indeed, this has become the norm in Nigeria where there is hardly any distinction between the two major political parties that have held sway since the inception of the Fourth Republic. One of the few programmes that make the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC) distinct from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is the so-called Social Investment Programme that is yet to make any meaningful impact on Nigeria’s poorest.

But somehow and despite the glaring similarities between the APC and PDP, the incumbent Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, has made a case for the tenure elongation of the works minister. Speaking last week at the unveiling of a compendium on proof of infrastructure delivery across Nigeria over a three-year period, Fashola, also known as the “Super Minister” because of the three portfolios rolled into one that he superintends, called for the extension of appointments of the works minister and critical directors in the ministry. According to him, a four-year stint in office was too short to design, procure and implement road projects, among other critical infrastructure that fall under the purview of the ministry.

“Government cycles in the last 20 years have been fixed tenures of four years at a time, subject to how the electorate vote. Personnel changes are effected by retirement, deployment, opportunities and cabinet reshuffles. As a result, critical directors, permanent secretaries and ministers are turned over in a quest for efficiency. In all, since 1952 to date, Nigeria has had 34 ministers of works and I am number 34 in a period of 67 years. This amounts to an average of a minister every 1.9 years. A further interrogation of the data of tenure shows that very few of them served for up to four years and above and the majority served a little over a year, which is barely enough time to design a road, not to mention undertaking the procurement and actually building the road,” Fashola, who serves at the pleasure of the president, stated.

He also called on the National Assembly to amend the Public Procurement Act, saying that the country’s procurement process must be urgent and compelling to national needs.

At first glance, Fashola’s argument may have appeared compelling, but to anyone with an inkling of how Nigerian politicians operate, it was also self-serving. Fashola, in just a few words, openly lobbied for the balkanisation of the power, works and housing ministry, and his retention as works minister. It will be foolhardy for anyone to think that Fashola was being altruistic and was arguing for future works ministers. Trust me, he does not care about anyone who holds the portfolio after him. His brazen lobbying to influence his retention in office was all about “me, myself and I”.

In my candid opinion, however, I do not believe that the “super minister” deserves another stint in office. Fashola, who as Lagos State governor, was once considered the poster boy of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and later the APC, has been anything

Fashola but effective in delivering on his mandate as the power, works and housing minister. In the power sector, the minister has failed abysmally.

He has spent an inordinate amount of time feeding Nigerians with alternative facts on actual power generation and transmission capacity available in the country, fighting and trading blame with power sector operators, awarding contracts to transform the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) from one that should be focused on rural projects to one that is fixated on urban electrification projects, has failed to convince President Muhammadu Buhari as petroleum minister to resolve gas constraint issues by facilitating and attracting investments in new gas delivery projects as well as pipeline infrastructure for the 10 national integrated power projects (NIPPs) inherited from the Goodluck Jonathan administration, lacks the political will to wholly reform the Transmission Company of Nigeria (operator of the transmission grid) and push for the implementation of cost-reflective tariffs to make the power sector attractive to investors, and has meddled in the independence of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

Fashola, who once said fixing the power sector was not rocket science and was quoted to have said that any serious government could fix the sector in six months (which he has repeatedly denied), has not added a single landmark initiative or legacy project in the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI) that one can point to.

Even when he boasts that we now generate 7,000MW of electricity and can transmit same, the performance of the transmission grid, which has attained a maximum peak of 5,375MW but records system failure every other week, completely contradicts his claim. Even NERC, on its website, puts Nigeria’s current transmission wheeling capacity at 5,300MW which is higher than the average operational generation capacity of 3,879MW but is far below the total installed generation capacity of 12,522MW. The so-called transmission wheeling capacity of 7,500MW is termed theoretical by NERC. In the housing sector, Fashola has not faired better in the three years plus that he’s been minister. He has not delivered a single housing project in any of the 34 states where his ministry

was allocated land by the state governments to build mass housing estates. If truth be told, the housing ministry may have outlived its uses and perhaps should be scrapped all together. Instead the Federal Housing Authority (FHA), which has successfully executed quite a few housing projects under public-private partnership initiatives, should be empowered to take over housing deliver nationwide. If the federal government is serious about trimming costs and improving efficiency, this is one small but certain step of achieving this deliverable.

In the area of works, Fashola will also be hard pressed to mention any major road project that he has started and completed as minister.

He inherited quite a few roads and bridges from the Jonathan government such as the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, the Second River Niger Bridge, Onitsha-Enugu expressway, dualisation of the Obajana junction to Benin section, Gombe-Numan road, to mention a few, but none has reached 70% completion to date. To be fair, if one has to factor inflation and the naira devaluation between 2014 and 2017, most of the contracts would have had to go through cost variations and subsequent rounds of tedious procurement processes to reflect the new cost of the projects. However, the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) is not entirely to blame for the delays experienced in the execution and completion of all federal government projects in the country.

In a circular issued in January 2016 by the then Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Babachir Lawal, he reminded all ministers and heads of parastatals that they were all statutorily required to prepare and submit their procurement records for the 2015 financial year not later than three months after the end of the financial year to the BPP as stipulated under the Public Procurement Act. He went further to add: “If all MDAs immediately commence the implementation of procurement activities and comply with procedures and time-lines laid down in the Act, the process for the award of most contracts would have been concluded by early 2016, thereby providing the platform for full implementation of the 2016 budget by the federal government.” Had they heeded this circular, Fashola would have had no reason to grumble about the statutory bureaucratic bottlenecks inherent in public procurement.

It is instructive that even though this circular was issued before the passage of the 2016 budget, with its inflation and exchange rate assumptions, it was an administrative call to arms for the MDAs to commence and conclude their procurement processes in a timely manner.

It was also premised on the notion that a lot of the projects included in yearly budgets by the executive are not necessarily new but are rolled over from the preceding year, even after the National Assembly may have shaved off or added a few billions of naira from some of the projects. What this further implies is that projects that are carried over into a new budget cycle, especially those in the 2018 budget when the official/interbank exchange rate had stabilized at N305-6 to the dollar, do not have to go through procurement for a second or third time.

Even if we were to review budgetary allocations vis-à-vis the actual amount released and cash-backed, information on the website of

the Budget Office of the Federation shows that Fashola’s power, works and housing ministry consistently got the lion share of budgetary allocations, releases and cash-backing between 2016 and September 2018 for capital projects.

In the 2016 budget, his ministry was allocated N442.964 billion but actually got N307.411 billion which was cashed-backed 100%. Of the N307.411 billion, Fashola utilised 97.1% of the cash released to his ministry. In the 2017 budget, the power, works and housing ministry was allocated N553.713 billion but actually got N336.577 billion which again was 100% cashbacked, but utilised 80.1% or N269.581 billion of the funds released to the ministry. While the third quarter implementation report for the 2018 budget shows that Fashola’s ministry was allocated N682.959 billion, of which a measly N122.184 billion was released and cash-backed and only 37% of the amount utilised. But add to this the first and second tranches of the N100 billion Sukuk Infrastructure Bond that have been released to Fashola, that should give Nigerians an inkling of the funds that were made available to his ministry between 2018 and 2019.

From all indications, Fashola has not lived up to his billing. Like most Nigerians, Buhari was hoodwinked by his modest accomplishments in Lagos where the state assembly, like other state assemblies, acts as a rubber stamp for the executive and contracts are awarded without due process. But the reality is that in eight years in office, Fashola, who only built a few unremarkable independent power plants but left the state in darkness, who patched and constructed a few roads but left the bulk of inner city streets in a state of disrepair, who built a few ramp bridges and a costly toll bridge between Ikoyi and Lekki but could not commence the Fourth Mainland Bridge, who claimed to have upgraded the water infrastructure works but left 99% of Lagosians without access to pipe-borne water, and who left behind the education and health sectors begging for attention, was never the right man for the job at the power, works and housing ministry. Another four years in office will not make any difference.

What the country needs at this juncture is a minister with the vision and political will to reform the way public infrastructure is funded.

Like many politicians before him, Fashola’s preference is to sit tight, embark on contract/ cost variations so that palms can be greased, and contracts awarded. This is a vicious, financially debilitating cycle with no end in sight and leaves the country with a litany of uncompleted projects. A surer bet and more cost effective way of saving the billions that are deployed in infrastructure projects with nothing to show for it, is to appoint a minister who is desirous of attracting private sector investors and or contractors willing to provide performance bonds and funding for projects that are backed by sovereign guarantees. In the event that they fail to deliver on the infrastructure projects, it is the investors that would lose the shirts off their backs by way of forfeiture of the performance bond. With that uppermost on their minds, very few investors will fail to deliver. But more importantly, this will be a win, win for Nigerians and government, which will have more funds at its disposal to spend on social infrastructure projects.

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