THURSDAY 3RD MARCH 2022

Oil Price Surges Above $113 as OPEC Keeps Supply Unchanged Nigeria gets 1.735m bpd allocation for April, petrol scarcity persists Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Crude oil price yesterday continued its upswing as Brent, Nigeria’s benchmark crude, rose above $113 per barrel for the first time in close to eight years. This was

as the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) resolved to continue the addition of a measured volume of 400,000 barrels per day, agreed with its allies, OPEC+, in August last year.

The producers’ group, which

decided on the quota for member countries for April, allocated Nigeria 1.735 million barrels per day as its production for next month. But it remains doubtful whether Nigeria would be able to meet its allocation for the month, having consistently,

for close to a year, been unable to supply the global market with its required volume.

Last month alone, the country recorded a deficit of over 300,000 barrels per day, even though the total quantity of oil it drilled for

that month, roughly 1.4 million bpd, was its best in several months.

The increasing crude oil price also implies that the controversial subsidy payments in the country would rise when the computation for this month is done, since the

pump price of petrol in Nigeria, which does not refine a drop of the product, has a positive relationship with the international crude oil prices.

Continued on page 47

UN Votes, Demands Russia Ends War as Attacks Intensify in Kharkiv, Others… Page 5 Thursday 3 March, 2022 Vol 27. No 9823. Price: N250

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Lawan Asks Buhari to Forward PIA Amendment Bill to National Assembly Panel gets one week to amend 2022 budget

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

L-R: Co-chair, Public Leaders Programme Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford, Prof. Chris Stone; Executive Vice-Chair, Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, Mrs. Ofovwe AigImoukhuede; Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan; H.R.H. Muhammadu Sanusi II; Chairman, Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, and Co-chair, Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford, Prof. Kate Orkin, during the closing ceremony of the AIG Public Leaders Programme Class of 2021, held in Abuja…yesterday

President of the Senate, Dr. Ahmad Lawan, yesterday urged President Muhammadu Buhari to transmit a bill to the National Assembly to amend the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). Lawan stated this before he referred the president’s request for the amendment of the 2022 Appropriation Act to the ComContinued on page 47

Convention: APC Set to Roll, Appoints Abdulrazaq Zoning Committee Chairman Lawan, Omo-Agege, some APC senators endorse Adamu for national chairman Party leadership yet to meet on Electoral Act, says Akpanudoedehe Sheriff: I'm not aware Buhari is endorsing Adamu Hammed Shittu in Ilorin and Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Ahead of its March 26 national convention, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has begun to set machinery in motion for the exercise. The latest move was the constitution of an eightmember committee on the zoning

of party offices, headed by Kwara State Governor Abdulrahaman AbdulRazaq. National Secretary of the Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC), Senator John Akpanudoedehe, disclosed this in a statement, yesterday.

Continued on page 47

Women Protest over Constitution HAS SEGUN ONI’S TIME COME?...

Segun Oni, former governor of Ekiti state and candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the forthcoming election standing on motorcade on arrival Review, Allege Discrimination... in Ekiti to a tumultuous crowd...Tuesday Page 48

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Group News Editor: Goddy Egene Email: Goddy.egene@thisdaylive.com, 0803 350 6821, 0809 7777 322, 0807 401 0580

NEWS

IFDC'S 19 YEARS OF DEVELOPING AGRICULTURE IN NIGERIA...

L-R: President and CEO, The International Fertilizer Development Centre, IFDC, Mr. Albin Hubscher; Regional Director, North and West Africa, IFDC, Dr Oumou Camara; Country Director, Nigeria, IFDC, Mr. PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI Yusuf Dramani and Program Director, HortiNigeria, Mr. Mohammed Salasi Idris during the IFDC 19 years developing agriculture in Nigeria held in Abuja ...yesterday

UN Votes, Demands Russia Ends War as Attacks Intensify in Kharkiv, Others Lavrov: World war III would be ‘nuclear and destructive’ Harris: US troops won’t fight Russians in Ukraine Nigeria approves release of $8.5m to evacuate 5,000 stranded citizens Two airlines to commence immediate airlift of affected nationals First batch to arrive today FG grants pre-departure COVID-19 waiver for returnees Deji Elumoye, Olawale Ajimotokan, Michael Olugbode in Abuja and Chinedu Eze in Lagos with agency report The United Nations General Assembly yesterday voted 141 to five, with 35 abstentions, to demand Russia halt the war. The vote came after the 193-member assembly convened its first emergency session in a quarter century.

Also, Russian Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov, yesterday said another World War would be “nuclear and destructive” for all parties and condemned Western sanctions on what he termed

Kremlin’s unprovoked war in Ukraine.

However, United States Vice President, Kamala Harris reiterated yesterday that US troops would not fight Russians in Ukraine as the Kremlin continues its advance.

These emerged just as Nigeria’s federal government yesterday approved the release of $8.5 million for immediate evacuation of no fewer than 5,000 Nigerians stranded in Poland, Romania, Hungary and Slovakia in the wake of the RussiaUkranian war.

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Zubairu Dada, who disclosed this to newsmen,

after the weekly Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at Abuja, said the approval was sequel to a joint memo presented by both the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development at a meeting presided over by the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo. Dada disclosed that Air Peace and Max Air airlines have been contracted to provide three aircrafts and run as many shifts as possible to airlift the stranded Nigerians.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a televised address to the nation one week into the

hostilities, rallied his people and praised them for their resolve.

“During this time, we have truly become one," Zelenskyy said. "We forgave each other. We started loving each other. We help each other. We are worried for each other."

In the besieged northeastern city of Kharkiv, Mayor Igor Terekhov said the unrelenting assault has caused "massive destruction." A rocket strike hit the regional police headquarters, killing four people and wounding several others, Ukraine Emergency Services said.

Russian Foreign Minister:

Aviation Fuel Scarcity Persists, Heightens Flight Delays, Cancellations Chinedu Eze As scarcity of premium motor spirit (petrol) persists, causing long vehicle queues at filling stations so is the scarcity of Jet A1 (aviation fuel) at airports, as airlines are now forced to wait for supply before airlifting passengers.

This, findings by THISDAY has been causing flight delays and sometimes cancellations when airlines wait and don’t get supply, a situation that became worse yesterday.

On Tuesday, Azman Air cancelled its Lagos-Abuja afternoon flight when it couldn’t get fuel to operate the flight, while Dana Air five aircraft were parked at the domestic terminal of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, known as MMA2.

Ordinarily, at that period of the day aircraft are rarely parked at domestic terminals, except the few that would be boarding flights.

Findings by THISDAY revealed that all the airlines experienced flight delays on Tuesday due to their inability to fuel their aircraft.

Air Peace, Ibom Air, Azman Air, Arik Air and Dana Air operated their flights behind schedule.

Spokesman of one of the major

domestic airlines told THISDAY that not only that there had been further increase in the price of the product, in Lagos it is sold at about N440 per litre, N500 per litre in Abuja. In addition to that; there is variation in the prices, as some marketers sell the product higher than others.

Also because of the scarcity of the product, some of the marketers have changed their policy whereby airlines buy aviation fuel and pay after few days. Now, they insist airlines must buy the product cash and carry.

The Communications Manager of Dana Air, Kingsley Ezenwa, told THISDAY that non-availability of aviation fuel was contributing to flight delays and affecting all airlines, expressing hope that the hiccups would be a passing phase.

Spokesman of United Nigeria Airlines, Archiless Uchegbu told THISDAY that with the increase in the prices of aviation fuel and its scarcity, on-time performance of airlines has been impaired.

Speaking on phone from Enugu, he told THISDAY that in the coal city passengers were waiting for their flights but there were delays because the airlines could not source the product, but expressed

hope that the scarcity would not linger for long time; otherwise, it would paralise flight operations in the country.

Also, Head of Communications, Arik Air, Mr. Adebanji Ola, told THISDAY that for the past two weeks, airlines have been finding it difficult to source aviation fuel, but said he could not confirm whether marketers insist on cash and carry before selling the product.

The aviation fuel scarcity has

exacerbated flight delays that have encumbered domestic flight operations in Nigeria and driven further the air of hopelessness, as passengers wait for several hours before they board their flights.

On Tuesday, THISDAY visited the departure lounge of MMA2 and felt the anxiety and uncertainty on the countenance of the passengers who were waiting, not knowing whether they would travel or not or when they would travel.

World War III Would Be ‘Nuclear and Destructive’

Lavrov, in an interview with lAl-Jazeera News, claimed Russia would face “real danger” should Ukraine acquire nuclear weapons.

Ukraine has not attempted to acquire nuclear weapons and Russia has provided no evidence to support its claims to the contrary. Putin over the weekend ordered the Kremlin’s nuclear arsenal to be on heightened alert, a provocative step that officials in the Biden administration and NATO allies called reckless. Military aid to Ukraine and more rounds of sanctions, however, did not waver after the escalation.

Lavrov said while Russian President Vladimir Putin’s government had been prepared for the series of stringent economic sanctions levied at Russia since the invasion of Ukraine, they had been caught off-guard by sanctions on athletes and personnel.

Ukraine Raises $270m to Help Fund War

The Ukrainian government has raised $270 million in war bonds after it began issuing the assets to fund its defense of the country from Russian invasion.

Ukraine’s central bank enacted capital controls amid the Russian invasion, making it difficult for foreign investors to participate in the program. That hasn’t stopped many international and local investors from buying the bonds, according to

Ukraine’s finance ministry.

“The proceeds from the bonds will be used to meet the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and to ensure the uninterrupted provision of the state's financial needs under the war,” The Ukrainian government continues to lobby for stricter sanctions on Russian financial institutions and businesses. Western sanctions on Russia have so far caused the ruble to plummet in value while everyday Russians and economic elites rush to shield their wealth from financial crisis.

Food, medicine and other supplies were being distributed at central locations and by trucks rolling through the city of 1.5 million residents, the mayor said. Efforts were underway to provide heat to lost utilities in the bombing as temperatures dip toward freezing.

"Kharkiv is holding on and will hold on," Terekhov said on Ukrainian TV. "Today the main goal of our enemy is to sow panic and devastation, but Kharkiv will always stand."

Russian negotiators are ready to resume talks with Ukrainian officials but cannot "predict whether Ukrainian negotiators will show up or not," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has said.

"Let's hope this happens," Peskov said. "Ours will be there and ready."

Peskov said Putin's culture adviser Continued on page 6

PenCom Approves Acquisition, Mergers of Pension Managers James Emejo in Abuja The National Pension Commission (PenCom) yesterday said it has approved the mergers and acquisitions of some pension fund managers in the country.

The regulator, in a statement, said it authorised the acquisition of Investment One Pension Managers Limited by Guaranty Trust Holding Company Limited and subsequent change of name from Investment One Pension Managers Limited to Guaranty Trust Pension Managers Limited.

PenCom also approved the acquisition of AIICO Pension Managers Limited by FCMB Pensions Limited.

The exercise also witnessed the merger between Tangerine Pensions Limited and APT Pension Funds Managers Limited and subsequent change of name of the merged entity to Tangerine APT Pensions Limited.

PenCom had in April 2021, mandated PFAs to raise their Minimum Regulatory Capital (shareholders’ fund) requirements to N5 billion from N1 billion, with

12 months to complete the exercise.

The commission had said it had given approval for Mergers and & Acquisitions (M&A) which may reduce the number of operating pension fund administrations (PFAs) in the country.

Director General/Chief Executive of PenCom, Mrs. Aisha Dahir-Umar, said the maintenance of a consistent growth trajectory continued to justify the commission’s overriding investment philosophy of ensuring the safety of pension fund assets.

According to PenCom’s first quarter 2021 report, the commission

had approved the acquisition of AXA Mansard Pensions Limited by Eustacia Limited, and the change of name from AXA Mansard Pensions Limited to Tangerine Pensions Limited.

The commission further granted “No Objection” for the merger between Tangerine Pensions Limited and Apt Pension Funds Managers Limited.

FCMB Pensions Limited, one of the subsidiaries of the First City Monument Bank Group plc, had acquired a 60 percent stake in AIICO Pension Managers Limited.

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NEWS

AT THE MOBILE WORLD CONGRESS 2022 IN BARCELONA...

L-R: Managing Director, Galaxy Backbone, Prof Muhammad Abubakar; Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum; Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Ali Ibrahim (Pantami); Space X, Starlink Market Access Director for Africa, Ryan Goodnight; EVC/CEO, Nigerian Communications Commission, Prof. Umar Danbatta, and a Space X Starlink Official, during a meeting of the Nigerian delegation with officials of Space X at the just concluded Mobile World Congress 2022 in Barcelona, Spain... recently.

FG to Save $1.8bn in Forex as Dangote, NNPC, Shell, Others Sign Gas Supply Deal Nigeria’s domestic gas demand to hit 4.4 billion scf/d Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos The Dangote Group, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Shell, Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC) Limited, Total Energies as well as the Gas Aggregation Company of Nigeria (GACN) yesterday signed a Gas Sale and Aggregation Agreement (GSAA) in Abuja.

The agreement which took place on the sidelines of the ongoing Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES), THISDAY learnt would see the companies supply 70 million standard cubic feet per day of natural gas to Dangote Fertiliser Limited (DFL) to ramp up operations at the plant.

Natural gas is a feedstock of the Dangote Fertiliser plant, with the gas supply agreement expected to guarantee the availability of the major raw material needed to run the plant.

The deal coincided with a statement by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), releasing a new Domestic Gas Demand Requirement (DGDR) for 2022, and pegging the figure at 4.4 billion standard cubic feet for the country.

Nigeria represents one of Africa's heavyweights when it comes to hydrocarbon exploration and production, with over 206 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, but has a huge gas supply deficit despite rising demand.

The African Energy Chamber (AEC) recently put Nigeria’s annual production capacity of gas at 1.450 billion cubic feet, as the country recovers from 2020 low production levels due to COVID-19.

But despite boasting of huge reserves and topping major countries, Nigeria’s per capita consumption of gas, Nigeria’s Ministers of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, recently lamented, remains one of the lowest in sub-Saharan Africa.

But speaking during the contractsigning event which was witnessed by the chief executives of all the organisations, the Founder of the Dangote Group and Africa’s richest person, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, said the deal would save the country a whopping $1.8 billion in foreign exchange.

Dangote stated that aside Egypt, Nigeria was the topmost fertiliser producer in Africa, explaining that the Dangote plant, Notore and the one belonging to Indorama have a huge combined production capacity on the continent.

The business magnate explained that aside meeting the domestic demand for fertiliser, the Dangote group was working hard to ensure that Nigeria retains a large chunk of its foreign exchange.

“I want to thank the Group Managing Director (Mallam Mele Kyari) for his leadership.

Without him, this wouldn’t have happened. I also want to commend Shell, and most of all Bala Wunti (Group General Manager, National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS) for pushing and making sure this becomes a reality.

“This additional gas will help bring in more foreign exchange into the country, especially with the current energy crisis. With our fertiliser plant, Notore, and Indorama, we are second in Africa.

Apart from Egypt, no other African

country has our capacity.

“We will meet domestic market and also export and we are talking about $1.8 billion (savings) in terms of foreign exchange coming into the country,” he stated.

Kyari said the contract was perfected within a short period based on its importance to the production of fertaliser and agroeconomic growth of Nigeria.

“As you are aware, Dangote fertiliser is one of the biggest producers of fertiliser and this deal, which is to offer 70m scuf per day to Dangote fertiliser by the JV, will contribute to the surge of fertaliser production in Nigeria. Of course, it will tremendously be positive to our agro-economy,” Kyari said.

Also speaking, Managing Director

of the Shell Petroleum Development Company and Country Chair, Shell Companies in Nigeria, Mr. Osagie Okunbor, described the agreement as the fastest GSAA ever in the country.

He commended the partners for working under serious pressure to ensure that the deal was struck, noting that it remains hugely important for the country.

He explained that the current government takes agricultural production very seriously, noting that as the company which produces the bulk of Nigeria’s fertilisers, the Dangote group was well positioned for the deal.

Meanwhile, a statement earlier signed by the NMDPRA Chief Executive, Mr Farouk Ahmed, noted

The Federal Executive Council (FEC) rose from its weekly meeting yesterday, with the approval for procurement of security screening equipment and ground lighting materials worth N3.523 billion for Abuja, Lagos and Kano international airports.

Speaking with newsmen at the end of the virtual meeting presided over by the Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, at the State House, Abuja, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Office of the Vice President, Mr. Laolu Akande, said contracts for which approvals were granted were

for the three international airports.

Akande who represented Aviation Minister, Hadi Sirika, stated that there was a memo presented by the Minister for Aviation, which got approval for the supply and installation of two sets of complete high-capacity passenger security screening systems for the Murtala Mohammed International Airports, Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja at the sum of N1,193,630,980.

“There was also approval gotten by the Aviation Minister for the supply and installation of airfield ground lightning materials for the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos, and the Nnamdi

scribe and allocate the domestic gas delivery obligation among all lessees as stipulated in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

The downstream authority added that the stakeholders consulted included gas producing companies, gas transportation companies, gas off-takers and key regulators such as the NUPRC and Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

It added that the organisation was obligated to determine the domestic gas demand requirement which shall be the total amount of marketable natural gas required for all wholesale customers of the strategic sectors.

NNPC Restate Need for Full Deregulation of Downstream Petroleum Sector

UN VOTES TO DEMAND RUSSIA ENDS WAR AS ATTACKS INTENSIFY IN KHARKIV, OTHERS Vladimir Medinsky remained the main negotiator for Russia.

Talks held Monday near the Belarus-Ukraine border produced no breakthrough, though the two sides agreed to meet again. It was not clear when talks would continue.

Zelenskyy had accused the Kremlin of trying to force him into concessions by intensifying the invasion.

"Fair negotiations can occur when one side does not hit the other side with rocket artillery at the very moment of negotiations,” he said.

Harris: US Troops Won’t Fight Russians in Ukraine

Appearing on NBC News, Harris also said it would be “irresponsible” to engage in nuclear escalation after Russian President Vladimir Putin said he had put the country’s

nuclear arsenal on alert.

“Our position is we are not going to contribute to an escalation in that direction and we have no intention of changing our posture,” Harris told NBC News.

Harris made the rounds yesterday across several network morning shows.

“We are not going to put US troops in Ukraine to fight Russians on the ground or in the air, but we are firm in our preparedness to defend our allies,” she said, echoing President Joe Biden’s vow to defend “every inch of NATO territory.”

Ukraine is not a member of NATO, but the US has sent troops to reinforce NATO’s eastern flank.

Nigeria approves release of $8.5m to evacuate 5,000 stranded citizens

FEC Okays N3.5bn Security Screening Equipment for Abuja, Lagos, Kano Airports Deji Elumoye in Abuja

that the newly released national gas requirement was jointly determined by all the relevant stakeholders.

He stressed that the data was transmitted to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) on Tuesday, with the power sector need pegged at 2.324 billion standard cubic feet per day.

“In addition, the gas-based industries were fixed at 1.125 billion standard cubic feet per day and the commercial sector was set at 1.034 billion standard cubic feet per day while the total domestic gas demand requirement was 4.482 billion standard cubic feet per day,” he stated.

He noted that the document would help the NUPRC to pre-

Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja and also the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Kano at the sum of N2,329,961,099.60”, he said.

Council also approved two memoranda for the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, both of which are targeted at victims of the crime of human trafficking.

Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Hajiya Sadiya Umar Farouk, who disclosed this explained that both memoranda, would be targeting specific agenda, including provision of assistance to victims, as well as rehabilitation and resettlement.

According to her: “One memo is for Council to approve the National Policy for the Protection and Assistance of Trafficked Persons in Nigeria and the second memo is the memo on the Protocol for Identification, Safe Return and Rehabilitation of Traffic Persons in Nigeria.

“These memos are very essential to what the NAPTIP does, that is the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons and they will help to guide our work and action as regards to the protection and assistance of trafficked persons.

The two memos were viciously approved by Council and we're very grateful to Council for that.”

Dada disclosed that Air Peace and Max Air airlines have been contracted to provide three aircrafts and run as many shifts as possible to airlift the stranded Nigerians.

He listed the evacuees to include 940 from Romania, 150 from Slovakia and 350 from Poland who have registered for evacuation.

According to him: “The ministry of humanitarian affairs wrote a memo to the President seeking for funding to enable us conduct this exercise. The memo was in the tune of $8.5 million which Mr. President has graciously approved.

That provision entails arrangement to evacuate not less than 5,000 Nigerians.

"Whatever happens you can be rest assured we are going to run any number of shifts that it will involve. Don’t forget it will also involve taking care of those Nigerians that may decide not to come back. It also includes some assistance for the feeding that may have been done by the missions under whatever arrangements.

Even the missions themselves are also in dire situations. So it’s a whole gambit of activities that are involved.”

Asked if the amount would be released immediately for the exercise, the minister said: “That is why the evacuation flights will begin today (Wednesday).”

On students trapped in Ukrainian cities now in the hands of Russians, Dada said: “We want to believe the Russian armed forces will obey the rules of engagement. They know the rules about civilians that are caught up in situations such as this. We want to assume they will respect international laws and ensure that no harm comes to them.

“Don’t forget that even our missions in Ukraine has had to be evacuated. So, if for any reason

any Nigerian is left behind, we are very prayerful, we are very hopeful that no harm shall come to them once of course they are in some shelters or whatever place they are hiding.

“Don’t forget we had also summoned both the Russian and Ukrainian ambassadors to our ministry, and we did emphasis the need for their troops to ensure that they do not do anything that will harm the lives of innocent citizens.

“We have seen video clips making the rounds about the alleged treatment that had been meted out to black people who were on queues and in buses and all that.

All these we have brought to the attention of the ambassadors and we have expressed our displeasure at this development and demanded that they do something about this.”

On her part, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Sadiya Umar Farouq, in a statement yesterday, said the federal government was working round the clock to ensure the safe return of Nigerian students and other citizens caught up in the war in Ukraine.

Farouq also stated that Buhari had directed her ministry to work with all relevant agencies to ensure this was done quickly and expeditiously.

She added that relevant agencies under the Ministry that included the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) have been directed to work closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure smooth evacuation.

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COMMENT

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

BATTLE FOR APC CHAIRMANSHIP Missang Oyama writes that Al-Makura clearly stands out

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here is no doubt that since the inception of the fourth republic in 1999, Nigeria has unwittingly adopted a binary political disposition. In this situation, two political parties seem to dominate the landscape with a constellation of some regional and fringe parties jostling to make inroads in the polity. APP (as it then was) and PDP dominated the power play at the center at the beginning of the current republic. However, the PDP had the fortune of taking the shot of leading the country in the first 16 years running from 1999 to 2007.

Ostensibly, the increasing discontent by most Nigerians with the PDP government gave rise to the agitation for an alternative leadership of the country. This desire by Nigerians was not far-fetched.

The PDP style of governance was characterized by gross impunity and mind-blowing malfeasance in high places, and the people thought and rightly so that they deserved better. On that score, it took the political ingenuity of the leaders of some key legacy parties – CPC, ACN, ANPP, DPP, and a faction of APGA to merge into a formidable political force, the APC that successfully broke the hegemony and stranglehold of the PDP in 2015.

Moreover, the newly birthed APC needed a man with the pedigree, popularity, image, and stature of General Muhammadu Buhari to herald the much-desired victory for the party against the incumbent government at the time. That feat has gone down in Africa’s political history as a watershed. It gives credence to the fact that a person’s character, credibility, and integrity are critical components required for a successful electoral contestation for any political party in a plural society like ours. In furtherance to this timeless truth, there is a confluence of opinions by political watchers and pundits that the APC cannot afford to get it wrong on who emerges to lead the party as the national chairman at the forthcoming convention.

There is no doubt that the ruling All Progressives Congress has evolved after the merger and successful wrestle of power from the self-imploded PDP. However, the ruling party’s growth as it is in every human organization is not bereft of its fair share of the challenges of inclusivity and harmonization of the various interests.

That, in effect, has given vent to a dire leadership strait in the party at this time. Against that backdrop, some gladiators have presented themselves to be hired by the party in the next convention slated for 26th February 2022.

While we recognize and appreciate the rights and contributions of all the aspirants for the national chairmanship of the party, Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, clearly stands out as the most visible with distinguishable leadership features. Moreover, his rich political pedigree, which is quite enigmatic, has set him on a glowing pedestal in the workings and management of the affairs of a major political party like the APC.

AS THE APC IS UNDERGOING A SNOOZE TIME, THE PARTY WILL NEED THE DISPASSIONATE CANDOR AND ENVIABLE CHARISMA OF UMARU TANKO AL-MAKURA TO BE ON THE DRIVING SEAT TO NAVIGATE IT THROUGH THE MURKY WATERS

TA’AL, as his admirers would fondly call him, is a homegrown Nigerian educationist, businessman, administrator, and politician with the understanding and capacity to play for the high stakes in our body polity. He has demonstrated these character traits in the critical assignments he has been entrusted with in the past, grinding out remarkable results under challenging situations.

As the governor of his home state of Nasarawa, Tanko AlMakura was saddled with leading the committee to restore peace and resolve contentious issues in the party in some states in the Northeast in 2018. He discharged the assignment dutifully, and the party became better for it. Al-Makura chaired the party’s electoral committee that conducted the 2018 governorship primaries in Ekiti State, and he delivered to the admiration of all stakeholders. By his conduct, Senator Al-Makura laid the foundation for the eventual victory of the party against an incumbent PDP government in the governorship election in that state.

He is the real Octopus with the Midas touch for beating the PDP. In 2011, Tanko Al-Makura demonstrated uncommon political prowess when he led the newly formed CPC to upstage a well-entrenched incumbent PDP government in his state in the governorship election. As a result, he became the only CPC governor in the country. That was no mean feat in the turf. He is regarded as a man of unparalleled wit who understands the rudiments of partisan politics – an effortless political genius of sorts.

As the APC is undergoing a snooze time, the party will need the dispassionate candor and enviable charisma of Senator Umaru Tanko Al-Makura to be on the driving seat to navigate it through the murky waters.

As one of the founding fathers of the party where he served in the merger committee discounting all the bills of the members of his former party on the said assignment, Al-Makura comes across as a man with the depth and understanding of the vision of the party. He has a full grasp of the direction of the party.

The senator is not only abreast of the issues plaguing the party; he is equally set out to consolidate on the gains already recorded and chart a progressive course for the party in the future. Senator Tanko Al-Makura comes with the magic wand to partner with Mr. President and build synergy with other stakeholders as a good team player to guarantee victory for the party as the 2023 general election beckons.

He is an exceptional gentleman with prodigious intellect who has built a superlative network of friends, spreading his tentacles across the length and breadth of the country and beyond. In that regard, Senator Al-Makura has unobtrusively etched his name as a detribalized Nigerian with the right frame of mind to stabilize the ship of the APC going forward. Therefore, APC cannot afford to rob itself of the best choice to provide leadership at this time.

Oyama writes from Abuja

LEVERAGING KNOWLEDGE ECONOMY FOR NATIONAL GROWTH TETFund is working hard to pave the way for a new dawn in education, writes Yusuf Abubakar

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he story of tertiary education in Nigeria cannot be completed without the intervention of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund).

Established by the federal government in 2011, to “disburse, manage, and monitor education tax to governmentowned tertiary institutions in Nigeria”, the Fund is a product of the Education Tax Act of 1993 aimed at carrying out interventions and improving learning conditions in Nigeria’s tertiary schools.

From 2011 to 2021, covering a period of 10 years, the Fund sponsored 30, 000 lecturers for Masters and Ph.D programmes in both local and foreign institutions. These indelible efforts carried out by the Fund also included developing the capacity of teaching staff through the creation of the Academic Staff Training and Development Programme.

According to the Executive Secretary of TETFund, Professor Suleiman Bogoro, the Fund “has also been providing support for Teaching Practice in federal and state colleges of education across the country. TETFund has so far supported over 71,263 lecturers under its Teachers’ Supervision Programme.

Considering the vital role that libraries play in educational institutions, TETFund has also allocated substantial funds to public federal and state tertiary institutions for the acquisition of library books, e-library resources and academic manuscript development to books in order to promote and support research, teaching and learning”.

It is not only in the field of human capacity development that the Fund has left its indelible footprints. The Fund, according to the TETFund’s boss, “has procured over 2,080,041

books for use in the libraries, 152,844 eResources and 380,778 equipment and furniture distributed across public tertiary institutions in Nigeria. I am pleased to inform you that upon recommendation of the Minister of Education, Malam Adamu Adamu, President Muhammadu Buhari has approved that TETFund completes the National Library which symbolizes institutional repository of knowledge and research globally.”

Before now, the strides of the Fund in building classes, lecture theatres, libraries and providing buses and other logistics for learning have been mind-boggling. It is on record that there is no tertiary school in Nigeria that has not benefitted from one or two projects embarked by TETFund. In some states, the Fund remains the only agency of intervention and is applauded for its key roles in confronting some of the challenges arising from infrastructural deficits that have become the bane of tertiary education in Nigeria.

Applauded for his visionary strides when he was first appointed TETFund boss in April 2014 by former President Goodluck Jonathan, Professor Bogoro displayed an unrivalled commitment to the overall development of tertiary education in Nigeria by undertaking massive infrastructural development and turning the wretched tales of universities and polytechnics, among others, into stories of hope and resuscitated optimism.

By the time the former university don handed over the affairs of the Fund to Dr. Abdullahi Bichi Baffa in August 2016, Professor Bogoro left behind an untainted legacy of excellence aimed at changing the narrative of despair and hopelessness into sunlight of anticipation and hopefulness for tertiary education.

Little wonder that just after two years of leaving the Fund, it was obvious that the talisman behind the strides achieved by TETFund was missing. It became imperative that something should be done to steady the focus and not derail the vision of the Fund. Without any form of hesitation the scholar of outstanding global status was returned to TETFund by President Buhari to continue where he stopped.

For those who thought Professor Bogoro would continue from where he stopped, he shocked them by choosing to travel through a road that is not often travelled in Africa.

Desirous of taking advantage of the knowledge economy that depends on capitalising “scientific discoveries and basic and applied research for development as it is practised in most developed countries”, the TETFund boss is concentrating his energies on how best the knowledge economy can be deployed to advance national growth.

Championing the new signature project of focusing on knowledge economy and improving the capacity of academics, the TETFund ES commenced to work for the establishment of the “National Research and Development Foundation (R&DF) for Nigeria, in order to make Nigeria’s economy more competitive in all spheres through sustainable funding and management, institutionalization of the Triple Helix Model which will culminate in the alliance of the academic, the private sector and the government for a knowledge-driven economy”.

Professor Bogoro’s zeal in bringing the actualisation of this dream of knowledge economy was soon confirmed in August last year when TETFund submitted a draft bill for the establishment of the National Research

and Development Foundation (NRDF) to the Minister of Education for onward transmission to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval and onward submission to the National Assembly.

The gateway for development, Prof Bogoro has always insisted, “is education as the most vibrant economies are so because they have allowed education to dictate the way forward through qualitative research, to make a difference. In Nigeria it cannot be different. In Nigeria for instance, there is no doubt that the South-west zone has a comparative advantage over the other five geo-political zones because of their consistent and massive investment in education, starting from the time of late Obafemi Awolowo, with free education from the foundation upwards”.

It is incontrovertible that Professor Bogoro has turned TETFund into one of the most performing agencies of the federal government under President Buhari and worked assiduously to pave the way for a new dawn for education in Nigeria. Apart from taking a holistic view of the education and retooling strategies aimed at meeting current exigencies, collaboration with foreign institutions and getting the private sector in deploying knowledge by scholars in developing remains the unquestionable signature project of TETFund.

For a nation that has been confronted with many development challenges, TETFund under Professor Bogoro has illuminated the path on how the knowledge economy can be properly harnessed to provide answers to the multifarious problems militating against national growth.

Mallam Abubakar writes from Katsina

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EDITORIAL THE 2021 GDP GROWTH RATE Growth must impact majority of the citizens positively to be meaningful

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he Nigerian economy posted a 3.4 per cent growth in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2021, according to recent figures by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). This represents the strongest rise since 2014, and surpassed projections by both the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) of 2.5 per cent and 2.7 per cent respectively. It is cheery news that the Q4 GDP growth was largely driven by the non-oil sector, propelled by services, agriculture, trade, ICT as well as the financial and insurance segments which accounted for 94.81 per cent overall.

The oil sector contributed just 5.19 per cent.

It is indeed heart-warming that the non-oil sector has continued to significantly drive GDP growth in the country. In the 2020 fiscal year, agriculture contributed around 24.14 per OUR FISCAL AND MONETARY cent to Nigeria’s AUTHORITIES MUST ROLL GDP, while 28.22 UP THEIR SLEEVES AND per cent came FASHION OUT APPROPRIATE from industry.

POLICIES AND STRATEGIES The service sector which continues to THAT WOULD ENGENDER grow contributed AN INCLUSIVE ECONOMIC 46.39 per cent. But GROWTH CAPABLE the modest OF ADDRESSING HIGH UNEMPLOYMENT, INFLATION performance of the sector to AND POVERTY RATES IN THE non-oil GDP often creates COUNTRY a delusional claim in government quarters that the economy is diversified. This is despite the obvious fact that agriculture and solid minerals sectors which have huge potential to alter the diversification journey remain largely undeveloped.

As we therefore bask in the euphoria of a positive GDP growth, the economic managers must not lose sight of the fact that while growth is desirable, it must impact majority of the citizens positively to be meaningful. That is why our fiscal and monetary authorities must roll up their sleeves and fashion out appropriate

Letters to the Editor

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policies and strategies that would engender an inclusive economic growth capable of addressing high unemployment, inflation and poverty rates in the country.

Going by the NBS figures, household consumption as a proportion of GDP rose to 76 per cent in 2021, the highest level since 2010. Cost of foods in Nigeria also increased by 17 per cent in December 2021 over that of December 2020. Unemployment rate was put at 35 per cent in 2021 and is projected to hit 40 per cent in 2022, with a third of the 69.7 million strong labour force unemployed.

T T H I S D AY EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU DEPUTY EDITORS WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE

T H I S D AY 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 SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO TO SEND EMAIL: first name.surname@thisdaylive.com

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.

EVANS’ JUST DESSERTS

or a country struggling to fulfil its vast potential, it is simply sobering to consider the things that people do to set their streams of income or simply to expand same.

For many people, nothing is or should be illegal in a country where many people are above the law, where morality starts and stops at bread and butter and its sustenance. So, a country that should ordinarily be the filter of African values by virtue of its size and staggering resources has instead become a country where anything goes, a broken sieve through which all manner of scum and slime scrape through.

In 2017, a country reeling from a rising spate of kidnapping was rocked to its heels when Chukwudimeme Owuamadike aka Evans was arrested. As has become a favourite pastime of the Nigerian police, the media trial was unsparingly elaborate.

The revelations were as cutting as they were chilling.

He was immediately dubbed the ‘Billionaire kidnapper,” as he was said to be one of the richest criminals in Nigeria, raking in millions of dollars in proceeds. He was also said to have proved impossibly elusive, evading arrest for four years even while he was top on the list of the most wanted criminals in Lagos, Edo and Anambra States.

He was arraigned before a Lagos State High Court on August 31, 2022 on a two-count charge of conspiracy and kidnapping. He was said to have subjected one Mr. Donatus Dunu, the Chief Executive Officer of Maydon Pharmaceuticals Ltd whom he kidnapped on February 14, 2016, to a grueling 88-day ordeal, during which together with his accomplices

o compound the problem is the burgeoning debt servicing quagmire, with its huge negative impact on government deliverables to the people. According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), as of September 2021, debt servicing to revenue value stood at 76 per cent, implying that 76 kobo out of every N1 earned by government was spent on payment of interest on debt. The IMF also projected that the government is likely to spend as much as 92.6 per cent of its revenue to service debt in 2022. These stark economic statistics are antithetical to the desired inclusive GDP growth, especially in a country where the population is growing at alarming rate.

The focus should therefore be on how to grow national productivity to obvious potential. Several urgent things need to be done. One, we must tackle insecurity, which has been a drag on the agricultural sector and the movement of people and goods. Two, we need to invest more on infrastructure, especially electricity. Three, we must reduce the cost and difficulty of doing business (especially over-regulation and overtaxing of Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs).

Four, we must target investment in human capital, and social sector like education and health, to improve the productive capacity of our people. Five, we need to stop destructive anti-trade policies; identify and incentivise growth areas like technology and attract investments.

Overall, government at all levels must remove the binding constraints, get out of the way, and unshackle national productivity.

he collected 223,000 euros as ransom from his family for his release.

On Friday February 25, 2022, he finally met his waterloo via a three-hour judgment by the High Court of Lagos State which sentenced him to life imprisonment. It is just desserts for the serial kidnapper who crafted tainted treasures out of the tears of others.

For all the pain he caused innocent people and their families, perhaps Evans deserves even more than he got from the Lagos State High Court. In this wise, it is extremely cheery news that trials are still proceeding against him in other courts.

If the Giant of Africa hopes to recover from its current malaise it irreducibly means that its most dangerous criminals must be stopped in their tracks. It means that those who think themselves beyond the reach of the law because they have made billions from their crimes and subsequently proceed to corrupt the morals of children and young people must be arrested, prosecuted and incarcerated. They do not deserve to roam about while expanding their criminal enterprise everywhere in Nigeria.

Some of them are the reason Nigeria has such a bad name on the international scene. Because they continue to smear the image of the country both home and abroad, they do not deserve the liberty that other well-meaning Nigerians enjoy.

While Evans begins to cool his heels in whatever facility he will spend decades in, efforts must be cranked up to bring to book all those who continue to commit many unjustified and unjustifiable crimes against Nigerians.

Kene Obiezu, keneobiezu@gmail.com

HYPOCRISY OF THE WEST

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he crisis in Russia is a clear indication that every nation is on its own.

At first, the West encouraged Ukraine and made all the necessary noises, but as the war started the West could only remind Ukraine that they were not members of NATO. The hypocrisy of the West and the new world order is always bewildering especially in times of crisis. I am shocked that the same West, allowed Bashir al- Assad to commit heinous crimes while Syrians are made refugees everywhere in the world. It is interesting that the West is so quick to talk about a world order that started after World War 11 but will never do anything to protect it. The best way to deal with a bully is to tell them off but the West has always been selective in doing this.

They we’re quick to get rid of Sadam Hussein, but Putin can be pampered even after his blood-fest on the streets of Grozny. As we speak Putin has unleashed terror on Europe and every part of the world. The economic effect is felt in bread shelves in Lagos, but the west is hypocritical about a response. Nobody wants to talk to Putin. I believe the West has just emboldened China and other nations to take over their adversaries. I believe the West has let the world down and made it fashionable to declare war. The invasion of Ukraine is just the beginning and many more nations will be emboldened to destroy and perpetrate crimes against immunity. The weak response by NATO, and the allies, I must confess has made the possibility of a Third World War more inevitable. The allies historical get it wrong in dealing with dictators. The same mistake was made with Napoleon Bonaparte. Napoleon was marching back to France before he was stopped. I am sure NATO understands that the Congress of Vienna was to settle a 23-year-old war Napoleon Bonaparte started in Europe and if NATO doesn’t deal with Putin now, it might lead to another Napoleon moment in history. One thing is certain: there is a new world order coming. Will it be Putin’s world or NATO’s world?

Time will tell.

Rufai Oseni, rufaioseni@gmail.com

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POLITICS

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

Tambuwal: The Next President of Nigeria Must Not Tilt Towards a Particular Religion or Section of the Country Governor Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto State and Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party Governors Forum, is not tip-toeing about his aspiration to lead Nigeria as her president from 2023. He tells Nseobong Okon-Ekong why he fits the description of the dream Nigerian president

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an you address some of the challenges confronting you as Governor of Sokoto State and steps you have taken to deal with them?

Talking about insecurity and how best it could have been approached by the current administration, I have had cause to say this a number of times; first and foremost, we have to identify the causes. Clearly, one of them is a situation whereby we have a number of able bodied young men and women that are out there without education; some have education but without employment. The criminals, bandits, Boko Haram and ISWAP recruit their members from the mass of these people and it is important for both local, state and Federal Government to pay attention to the education of the populace and ensure that the vast majority of citizens are properly educated and not just by passing the walls of either primary school, secondary school or even tertiary institutions.

They must have the kind of education that is qualitative and impactful on them and don’t just pass through the four corners of an institution and come out half-backed. So, it is important for all of the tiers of government and the general public and parents inclusive to pay attention to the education of our young ones and it is largely on the government whether we like it or not. Education in Nigeria is still being seen as a responsibility of the government; be it state or Federal Government. So, there should be that deliberate effort to really take those who are out of school back to school just like we are doing in Sokoto State now where even by the assessment of UNICEF, we have recorded very, very remarkable achievements and successes in taking the out-of -school children back to school and retaining them till they finish the full circle of at least secondary school education.

So, education is key and providing employment opportunities and not necessarily white collar jobs is also very key. A situation whereby you have teeming millions of youths unemployed is very unhealthy in any society. So, government must come up with a programme and scheme that would now improvise ways and means whereby these youths can now be properly trained in terms of giving them skills that they can apply and be more useful to themselves and the society. It is not about just someone graduating with a university degree without an employment. Even those who are not university graduates, if you give them some skills, they should be able to now find one thing or the other to do. We have a lot of opportunities that are informal in our society.

It is important that we mainstream all of that including the informal sector and ensure that we provide the enabling environment for small and medium businesses to grow and that can be done with the support of the government.

Of course, industrialisation is also key toward providing employment but that is long term. So, education and employment are key. In terms of agricultural development for example, in my state, about 80/85 percent of people of Sokoto State are farmers and our government have been very deliberate in supporting farmers with a lot of implements like highly subsidized fertilizers, insecticides and all of that. We do that year in, year out, season in season out- dry season farming, wet season farming. We support our farmers with extension workers. We are recruiting more extension workers and they are helping the farmers especially in the introduction and reorienting them on the new and improved seedlings – be it seedling like that of maize, wheat, rice, tomatoes and all of that. So, it is a whole package of support for farmers. That is very important because the farms take more than eighty percent of our population in terms of supporting them economically and having what to do. It is important that the government at the centre supports it but they cannot do it.

In any case, the Federal Government does not

Tambuwal

own state lands/farm lands so it is better done at the level of states and local governments. We devolve more of that to the states and local governments and we encourage them to give more of subsidies and support to farmers. That way, you would see that there would be a lot of improvement in the area of farming.

Part of what we have been doing which is closely related to the issues of the moment is supporting the herders and cattle breeders in the state by first completing the scheme that was abandoned by the administration of former Governor Wamakko. When we came in, he was already into a relationship that had gone far but was abandoned with modern type farms. We had to bring in special breeds of cows from Argentina into Sokoto. When we came up, we employed some consultants that advised that look, instead of going to Argentina, we can rebrand and repackage the entire programme and complete it by bringing in those species of animals particularly cows from South Africa. And that was what

was done and those are some of the clusters you have seen; that is how far we have gone.

They have increased the volume of milk and even quantity of meat that our farmers and herders are collecting from the cows. Now, instead of 50 to 100 kg, we currently have up to 500kg from one single cow. So, all of these are innovations and support that our government is using not only in empowering the farmers, those who are into animal husbandry but also addressing the challenge of insecurity. This is because if you are able to convince them that if you stay in one place and have, be it ranch or a cluster, the tendency is that you have more milk and meat, and you are not exposed to the hazards like being beaten by snake or being in direct confrontation with wild life in the bushes. It would also take care of the heightened insecurity in the land. So, it is by clear demonstration to them that this is a better way to go about it that you can now convince them and take them off that. So, we have done quite well in that and we are going into the second round of it.

The Commissioner for Animal health just returned from South Africa for the second batch of that scheme. We are also supporting our farmers in fishery and goat multiplication. So, all of these, when you look at that comprehensively, it is an attempt to provide jobs, create wealth and address the issue of insecurity, all

I have traversed everywhere even before I became the Speaker of the House of Representatives. As a lawyer that had been practicing and very active in the politics of Nigeria and subsequently a member and Speaker of the House of Representatives, I have traversed the length and breadth of this country. I have established contacts; I have established friendships; I know and appreciate the diversity of the people of this country and I quite understand the differences amongst the people of Nigeria. In the Nigeria of today, you need someone that really understands the country in terms of the diversity, the people, their mores, cultures and traditions. It must be someone that the people of this country can say look, this person has done something which we believe while doing it demonstrated capacity and competence in providing that leadership for the country

put together by educational interventions, agricultural interventions, health care and other interventions. We are paying serious attention to all of that. Before the current administration, we did not have the health insurance scheme but we have it in place now and it is working and the citizens are benefitting from it. We have not had a mandate agency that has been addressing the issues about Malaria.

One of the killer diseases in Nigeria and in fact in Sokoto State is Malaria. It kills more people than even the COVID-19. So, we have a Malaria agency established in Sokoto State for the first time with full complements of the office of the adviser to the governor and Director General and all of that. We have been having many collaborations with a number of international donors and agencies. Our campaigns against malaria has gone far in terms of sensitization, provision of basic drugs and giving out to people mosquito nets and all of that; so also the issue of primary health care.

We have constructed more and renovated most of the primary health centres that we inherited from the past government. We have ensured that all of them are now properly staffed. We recently ordered for the recruitment of about 1700 middle class health workers that are being posted to these primary health centres. It is so that they would be more functional and that would reduce pressure on the general hospitals and the teaching hospitals in Sokoto.

We will also make sure that we give free drugs and medication to the children and pregnant women. So, when you look at that and what we are doing more in terms of tertiary healthcare development by establishing three premier hospitals, 150 bed space each of the senatorial districts and also the teaching hospital itself. I think it is going to be the biggest in Northern Nigeria with 1200 bed capacity and the diagnostic centre that we have also established in Sokoto. You can see that we are paying attention to medicare and we are employing more hands, more doctors, nurses and health technicians. We are training them more; we have sent a number of medical students out and in the country for courses and some of them are beginning to return. Only late last year, we received about 38 of them that came back from Sudan who are properly trained medical doctors and dentists.

Our investment in healthcare is comprehensive right from maintenance, supplies of medicaments, medical facilities, to constructing new ones, general hospitals, premier hospitals, teaching hospitals and training and retraining and of course, the provision of drugs and all of that. So, we are doing quite a lot in that.

Why do you want to be the president of Nigeria?

As far back as 2012/2013, seeing how I was been able to preside over the National Assembly of the federal republic of Nigeria, very many well meaning Nigerians began to approach me on the idea of running for the president of Nigeria. So, it is not just about me wanting to be. It is also about people identifying some of these qualities that they think are needed in the president of Nigeria in my person. So, I believe that first and foremost, I have the requisite competence and understanding of the dynamics and complexities of Nigeria for me to be able to preside over that office of the president of the federal republic of Nigeria. As I have said, I have traversed everywhere even before I became the Speaker of the House of Representatives. As a lawyer that had been practicing and very active in the politics of Nigeria and subsequently a member and Speaker of the House of Representatives, I have traversed the length and breadth of this country. I have established contacts; I have established friendships; I know and appreciate the diversity of the people of this country and I quite understand Continued on page 21

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POLITICS

Jedy-Agba: Political Offices Are Not Reserved for Individuals, Groups Former Chairman, Cross River State New Cities Development Commission, Mr Kevin Joe Jedy-Agba has indicated interest to run for the Obudu, Ogoja, Bekwara Federal Constituency in Cross River State in the 2023 national elections. In this interview with Ugo Aliogo, he assures that he’s ready to serve his people ou recently indicated interest to contest for the Obudu, Obanliku and Bekwara Federal Constituency seat. How well are you prepared for the race?

I am sufficiently ready and prepared. I have been on this for quite sometime, working behind the scene and i can tell you for free that i am ready. I am not one known for doing things haphazardly, so i won’t come before my constituents if I’m not prepared for them to send me on this all important assignment.

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remain the bane of the people of Obudu, Obanliku and Bekwarra Constituency.

It takes a man who feels the pulse of his people to work to attract these basic necessities to his people. And these are the basic things of life, water, electricity, good roads and easy access to farmlands and other points of raw materials. For our people to function optimally these necessary things should be available to them. It is indeed that level of effective representation that I seek to bring to our people in Obudu, Obanliku and Bekwarra Federal Constituency.

governor in the state?

That’s a very sensitive question. But I can assure you that it is not an individual decision to make. I am very certain that at the appropriate time stakeholders would sit down with the leadership of our great party, the PDP and the right decision would be taken that would serve the interest of all party men and women. But in my personal opinion, what should preoccupy the minds of every loyal member of my party at this moment is how we can take back our mandate from the opposition.

Three local government councils constitute your federal constituency: what are their strengths and weaknesses and how do you work for a win-win situation?

These are three very politically active and conscious local governments. one of them, my home local government Obudu, incidentally happens to be the local government of the incumbent Governor Ben Ayade. To me, I see their strengths and not their weaknesses because i would be needing all of their votes to proceed and you would agree with me that every vote counts.

Zoning is one issues that has dominated discussions in recent times, what’s your take?

To me, zoning is a good approach to address certain concerns, especially as it bothers on marginalization. This is where your question on weakness can be properly situated.

We come from a multi-ethnic society where minorities would legitimately feel marginalized. So I believe that the principle of zoning should ordinarily come handy to address such agitations when it arises.

However, zoning most often comes with its drawback. Many have argued that zoning has the ugly potential to breed mediocrity and i agree with them entirely, most essentially when you juxtapose it with the yearnings of the generality of society and their desires for accelerated growth, you would begin to see the need to put square pegs in square holes

What’s your agenda?

My agenda is simple.To work with members of my constituents, get their mandate to represent them at the Green Chamber and by so doing afford them the opportunity to enjoy effective representation that has so far eluded them year in, year out.

Jedy-Agba

allow that all important legislative seat to become a sole prerogative of anybody. God won’t let that happen either.

There are issues of bad roads, lack of electricity, potable water etc, how would your representation help address these problems?

This is at the core of our political campaigns. these are the very reasons why men of good conscience like myself and other concerned citizens in my constituency are worried. We just can no longer sit back and allow poor representation to continuously

Why would you want your constituents to back you seeing that the incumbent is also bidding for a return?

That’s a very hilarious question. I’m not aware that political offices are a prerogative of any individual or group of people. And we are speaking of an elective office at that. I’m sure that the people of my constituency would not

Which zone should produce the next

What’s your strategy and how do you want to execute it?

Political strategies are like strategies you draw up in a war situation. You can’t bring your strategies before your opponent.

I have a very robust campaign machinery that is already in place. Massive consultation is still ongoing. We are not taking anything for granted. We have very formidable opponents, so we must think outside the box and avoid any feeling of complacency. I am not new to political campaigns, so our strategies would be targeted at guaranteeing victories in both the primary of the PDP and in the general election.

‘The Next President of Nigeria Must Not Tilt Towards a Particular Religion or Section of the Country’ the differences in quote amongst the people of Nigeria. And the Nigeria of today, you need someone that really understands the country in terms of the diversity, the people, their mores, cultures and traditions. It must be someone that the people of this country can say look, this person has done something which we believe while doing it demonstrated capacity and competence in providing that leadership for the country. His pedigree must convince the people to say look, once this person is there, we can say that we are comfortable that every section of this country will be looked after. There would not be ethnic chauvinism; there would be inclusiveness, good governance and you bring some freshness into the system. So, I believe that these are some of the qualities that quite a number of Nigerians are seeing in me and talking to me about running for the office of the president. I am convinced that if given the opportunity, we can together with the right team run a government of the federal republic of Nigeria that Nigerians should be comfortable with; that Nigerians would appreciate as their own government and not one that is tilted towards a particular section or religion. It would be a government that would be there for all sections of this country and that understands also the issues and challenges of the nation.

Today, we are very divided; that is the truth.

This country needs a unifier; someone who can bring all the tendencies together and bring back our unity; it is key; not only a unifier but someone who knows the issues and understands the country itself. He must understand the issues of insecurity, challenges in terms of healthcare, education, youth employment and women issues; someone who has not only the training in terms of academic laurels but also the practical experience of governance. You do not get it off the shelf.

You need that experience; you cannot take away the need for experience in running governments especially in a country like Nigeria where the institutions are very weak if they are there at all and in some cases, they are not even there. So, you need someone with that basic experience of governance and not only governance but democratic governance to be on the driver’s seat. So, these are some of the reasons why I believe that a number of people are saying that being a lawyer by training, and being someone who was in the legislature for 12 uninterrupted years; a deputy chairman of a

Tambuwal

committee, minority leader, deputy whip of the House of Representatives and then Speaker of the House of Representatives and now governor of Sokoto State in the executive arm for almost seven years and upwards to eight years by the grace of God, that experience is there. And of course, when you are talking about this age bracket and issues, when you look around, of all those that are being mentioned, I am probably the youngest in terms of age. I believe that with all of these put together, we can make things happen in this country.

The insecurity situation in the country has become a viable business for some including highly placed people; we now have crises entrepreneurs in Nigeria. Do you think it is possible to overcome the ugly trend?

Sure; first as the president and

Commander in-Chief, you must select the right people that can do the job as service chiefs.

And identifying them should not be difficult because reasonably, we know ourselves; who can do what and who cannot do what in this country even in those services. So, if as president and Commander in-Chief, you recruit the right leadership, that should be the beginning. With that, you can now work out the framework for implementation.

How to go about it is by bringing new ideas to be brought in; I do not see any reason why in Nigeria, we should still remain where we are in terms of the number of personnel that we have in the various security forces. Meanwhile, there are so many hundreds of thousands of able bodied young men that are willing and patriotic enough to be enrolled in these services and yet the Federal Government is not looking at that. It is one area that one must pay attention to; dutiful, diligent recruitment process of manpower. This is because now, it is a well known fact that we do not have manpower in the security services of Nigeria.

You need to have manpower. Those that are

there, that can be retrained especially on the new trends of criminality, you train them. And give them tasks. You must deploy technology; I have said that several times. The incoming Federal Government must look at a way of deploying technology in addressing these challenges. I made the comment recently and someone was asking me why don’t I bring it to Sokoto. But as governor of Sokoto State, I have my limitations. I cannot even bring in some of these equipment without clearance from the Federal Government. So, the Federal Government should be able now to get the right equipment for the armed forces and various security personnel and also take care of their welfare. These are some of the steps that any government that is serious must take and the Commander in-Chief must be hands on.

Whether we like it or not, we must devolve some of these security powers to the states.

Whether we like the idea or not, state police is one of the options with some measure of refinement, control and checks. I know that so many people are already concerned about governors taking charge of the state police but there must be a way that we can now oversight even what the governors are doing with the state police. So, it is not the right thing that people should just discard the idea of state police because they feel that someone somewhere would take advantage of it. We must come up with a mechanism that would suit our own local situation and provide state police and devolve security to that tier of government. State governments are in charge of people. We have countries where even universities have campus police. So, it is about how we really come up with the idea and how it is being implemented.

So, I believe that all of these put together would engender a better and safer Nigeria for all of us.

With the world now as a global village, as a governor whose state is at the border with another African country, I want to know if you as president would continue with making Africa the centre point of your foreign policy just as successive governments in Nigeria had done?

We have to be as dynamic as the world. We cannot remain static; we cannot just say for NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022 ˾ T H I S D AY

FEATURES

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi Email chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, Tel: 07010510430

Rivers Community Turning into Tourism Hub, Attracts Global Prominence A new tourism destination has emerged in Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, heart of the Niger Delta. Blessing Ibunge writes that the area is becoming a haven of viable investment opportunities, attracting global prominence from a hitherto background of non-existence

T

he Andoni Tourism hub has the potential to compete with the top-rated tourist attractions of the world, create a viable alternative source of revenue for Rivers State and turn around the economic fortunes of Andoni to join the league of economically buoyant local government areas in Nigeria.

Andoni is endowed with huge potentials in Culture, Fishing, Wildlife, Beautiful Beaches and Landscape. These were unlocked and showcased at the just concluded Andoni Unity Carnival held on December 18, 2021 through January 3rd, 4th and 5th January 2022.

The historic event was conceptualised by the Andoni Council Chairman, Mr. Erastus Awortu, to foster unity amongst the people, showcase the rich tourism potentials of Andoni and grow the local economy of the area.

As a riverine local government area bordering the Atlantic Ocean, the rich cultural heritage of Andoni is influenced by the sea, rivers, creeks, swamps and mangrove which surrounds the area.

The Atlantic Beach of Andoni is rare in the World and incredibly unique with fantastic features. It is a mesmerising wonder and breath-taking to behold.

The Andoni Atlantic Ocean is naturally endowed with rare species of fishes and sea animals such as Dolphins, Swordfish, Sea Lions etc, which are of high commercial value and are found in only few oceans of the world.

The aesthetic landscape of of Andoni is such that its beautiful Atlantic Beaches are overlooking its rich wildlife reserve housing Elephants, Hippopotamus, Antelopes, Monkeys, Lions, Leopards, Buffaloes, Chimpanzee, Cheetah, Crocodiles, Wild Turtles, etc.

The Andoni Unity Carnival, which came on the heels of the restoration of an enduring peace in Andoni by the Awortu administration, was the first of its kind since the creation of the local government.

The event was colourful, fun-filled, remarkable and a phenomenon. It was described by many as the home-coming of Andoni people within and outside the country.

The well-attended Unity Carnival also attracted friends, well-wishers and lovers of Andoni people, from neighbouring local government areas and beyond.

It was a unifying factor and a consolidation of the gains made by the Awortu administration in the area of peace and security.

The Unity Carnival successfully kicked-off on December 18, 2021 with Carol of Nine Lessons at Ngo Town amidst great enthusiasm and excitement.

Illustrious sons and daughters of Andoni took turns to deliver heart-warming Carol Lessons, while describing the event as remarkable.

Speaking, the Andoni Council Chairman Erastus Awortu says it was gratifying that Adnoni is experiencing a watershed moment in history under his administration.

He called on tourists, conservationists and promoters of tourism to visit the area to have a first-hand experience of the rich Wildlife and beautiful Beaches of Andoni, which according to him is akin to the most iconic tourist attractions of the world.

Amazing and spectacular fireworks heralded the commencement of the carnival and the Carol of Nine Lessons, thus re-awakening the spirit of oneness and celebration amongst the Andoni people.

This was followed by a colourful and prestigious display of Boat Regatta on December 30, 2021 at the New Road Waterfront, Andoni by contingents from the eleven Wards of Andoni LGA. The Boat Regatta witnessed great display of amazing skills, dexterity and teamwork in boat paddling and boat race by the Youths of Andoni, including the repentant ones.

The contingents of Ward 5 stole the show with a captivating, exciting and remarkable performance when they floated a locally made boat that has the shape of a fish.

After the triumphant entry into the New Year 2022, the carnival proceeded with Unity and Peace Walk on January 3, where hundreds of people wearing carnival t-shirts

Sights of the Andoni Unity Carnival from the different communities of Andoni including those who hitherto never saw eyeball-to-eyeball came together in unity and matched from the council Secretariat at Ngo Town to Ayamobo community in ward 2 Andoni proclaiming the message of peaceful co-existence, brotherliness and cohesion.

The carnival took a more interesting and exciting dimension on January 4, 2022 at a Beach Party in Ikuru Town, Andoni.

The beach party, which attracted hundreds of holiday makers and fun seekers from within and outside Andoni including the political elites and other personalities, was glittery and glamorous.

In his remarks at the beach party, the Andoni Council Chairman, Erastus Awortu extolled the tranquility of the waters and ocean, which characterise the uniqueness of Andoni Beaches. He remarked that: "Tourists will crave for these unique features when fully harnessed".

Awortu declared that Andoni is an emerging business hub for the hospitality industry as it aims to be on the business map of Rivers State.

He further stated that the Unity Carnival has exposed the yearning business opportunities in the hospitality industry in Andoni for investors to explore.

“This Unity Carnival which also included a beach party at Ikuru Town has indeed lifted the local economy. Today’s beach party is part of programmes for this year’s carnival to showcase our rich landscape and economic potentials. Sadly, there are no hotels in Andoni, I’m saying this to let us understand the yearning business

gap for investors to tap into. You can imagine if we had hotels here or on the main land, the patronage will be high and tourist will see investors smiling to the bank at moments like this because the business opportunities are quite awesome”.

On his part, the Traditional Ruler of Ikuru Town, HRM King Aaron Miller Ikuru (VII) commended the Andoni Council Chairman, Awortu for uniting the people with the carnival, while pledging his support to the council in its plan to attract investors to Andoni.

The Chairman of Opobo-Nkoro Local Government Council, Mr Enyiada Cookey-Gam who led scores of people from Opobo to attend the Andoni Unity Carnival, on his part, promised to leverage the tourism potentials of the two local government areas to build stronger business partnership with Andoni.

Also speaking, former Chairman of Andoni Local Government Council, Mr Orom-Nte Erefrokuma, lauded the business ideas and foresight of the council chairman, whom he said has set the ground for the flow of investment into Andoni.

He also commended Mr. Awortu, for his peace initiative whilst urging the youths to sustain the tempo.

On his part, former Chairman of Obio/Apkor Local Government Council, Mr Solomon Eke urged the youths to support the peace initiative of the Awortu administration by being law abiding.

"The AndoniTourism hub has the potential to compete with the top-rated tourist attractions of the world, create a viable alternative source of revenue for Rivers State and turn around the economic fortunes of Andoni to join the league of economically buoyant local government areas in Nigeria"

The Andoni Unity Carnival came to its climax on January 4, 2022 with colourful display of the rich cultural heritage of Andoni.

The Andoni Council boss, Erastus Awortu who appeared in royal attire depicting his position as the number one citizen of the local government, led other sons and daughters of Andoni from the eleven wards who also dressed in beautiful traditional costumes, in colourful cultural parade and procession showcasing the rich culture of the area.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the five-day long event, Mr. Awortu said the Unity Carnival provided an opportunity to unleash the cultural potentials and hidden talents of Andoni people especially the youth.

“The cultural parade represents the climax of a list of activities of the Unity Carnival; the main essence is to expose the untapped business opportunities in our area to potential investors.

"This will go a long way to support infrastructure development, create employment opportunities and boost the internal revenue of the council. Today, we have the opportunity of showcasing our rich cultural heritage via play and costumes. Andoni people were popular warlords in the region and we are happy to reminisce on this history via colourful display and ceremonial parade”.

The Council Boss described Andoni as an investment haven with viable investment opportunities in Tourism and Fishing.

He said its rich cultural heritage, alluring beaches, wonderful Wildlife and exquisite landscape are attractive and viable investment opportunities in tourism.

The Federal Lawmaker Representing Andoni/Opobo/Nkoro Federal Constituency, Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante who was visibly present throughout the Unity Carnival lauded the Andoni Council Chairman, Awortu, for restoring peace to Andoni.

Abiante recalled that prior to the inception of the Awortu administration the people of Andoni could not gather together without fear of insecurity.

He pledged his support and loyalty to the sustainable peace and development of Andoni under the Awortu-led Administration.

Side attractions at the Andoni Unity Carnival included Dance performances, Masquerade display, music and comedy by notable musicians and comedians from Rivers State and other parts of the Niger Delta such as Prince Hezekiah, Dandizy, Indiana, Maxi, Mkaze, Flag-P etc. The carnival also attracted some Nollywood Stars and other celebrities.

Commercial activities also received a huge boost in the area during the carnival with traders, operators of commercial vehicles and boats as well as motorcyclists popularly known as Okada and other public service providers smiling to the bank.

It is no gainsaying that the Andoni Unity Carnival was a huge success, as it competed with other carnivals that were held in other local government areas of Rivers State and other parts of the Niger Delta during the last yuletide season.

Leveraging and consolidating on the gains of the Unity Carnival is a decision already established by the Andoni Council Chairman Erastus Awortu with a pledge to make it an annual event and the pride of Rivers State.

To this end, the Awortu administration has commenced move to give the Andoni Unity Carnival a legal backing by initiating the necessary legislative framework with a view to developing the tourism potentials of Andoni, boost its internal revenue, grow the local economy and set the ground for the diversification of the economy of Rivers State from over-reliance on oil to tourism in order to attract foreign earnings and create job opportunities for the teeming unemployed population of the state.

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022 ˾ T H I S D AY

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#THISISNIGERIA –Rachael Eni

While We Wait For The 2023 Elections

Source: Google

I

n the 19th of November, 2021, the National Assembly forwarded the Electoral Amendment Bill to President Muhammadu Buhari.

What would eventually follow was a drama so unnecessary that it left me bewildered.

Rather than assent or decline the Bill, the President chose instead to jet out of the country, spurring calls by concerned citizens and civil society organisations (CSOs) for the President to either return or for the National Assembly to ignore him and pass the bill into law.

For proper perspective, the provisions of Section 58 (4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) states that "Where the two Houses of the National Assembly have passed the Bill and present it to the President, he must signify if he Assents [Approves] to it or withholds his Assent [i.e disapproval] within a period of 30 days."

For the President to wait until time had elapsed (Day 31) to decline assent to the bill when it could have been done earlier leaves me, as with many other Nigerians, with questions. But this isn't the subject of this article. Moving on.

In the former version of the Bill passed by the National Assembly, the lawmakers prescribed that political parties use only the direct mode of primaries. This did not sit well with Mr President who cited insecurity, infringement on the rights of Nigerians to participate in governance, and the cost of conducting direct primaries as his reasons for declining assent. He further assured Nigerians that he will sign the Bill if changes are made to the clause, to allow political parties decide the best way to pick their candidates for elections.

Sequel to this, the lawmakers amended the controversial Clause 84 of the bill – which deals with the mode of primary election to be used by political parties to select candidates for elective offices, and have now transmitted it once again to the President.

While we wait on Mr President to either assent or withhold approval, we as citizens

must understand the implications of this new amendment to the Electoral Bill, or at the very least familiarise ourselves with the concepts of consensus, direct and indirect primaries. The recently conducted Ekiti primaries by various political parties in the state featured all 3 types of primaries and offered relevant insights.

Direct, Indirect and Consensus As the name implies, direct primaries typically involve the participation of all registered members of a political party in the selection of the party's candidates. In the just concluded APC primaries for the Ekiti elections, the party adopted the direct mode where every card-carrying party member in Ekiti State was entitled to vote. Indirect primaries, on the other hand, rely on the use of delegates, who in most cases are political appointees or party leaders at different levels to choose the party's flag bearer. The process of choosing delegates is mostly done at the ward level. These delegates then go on to represent their respective wards. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) adopted the indirect mode of primaries.

Unlike the direct and indirect modes of primaries, primaries by consensus involve the unanimous endorsement of a candidate by all cleared aspirants. The Labour Party adopted Olugbenga Daramola as its consensus candidate for Ekiti.

While all modes of primaries certainly have their advantages, it can be argued that none of them is representative of the true will of the people—in this case, party members—and can be manipulated to suit those with vested interests.

In a clime such as ours, where party members do not want to appear disloyal to their principal or godfather, it becomes inevitable that party members will align

with their respective leaders in their choice of candidates if the direct mode of primaries is deployed. It raises questions as to why time and resources should be expended if party members will eventually echo the choice of one man, for fear of being tagged disloyal. The emergence of Biodun Oyebanji, the alleged favourite candidate of Governor Fayemi, as the flagbearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming Ekiti elections, lays credence to this.

There is also the matter of the direct primaries being misused; the track record of direct primaries in the APC speaks to its negative use. In the 2021 Anambra gubernatorial elections, Andy Uba polled 230,201 votes to become the party's flagbearer. Months later, during the elections, he polled a miserly 43,285 votes. What happened to 181,916 people that supposedly voted for him in the primaries?

In the APC primary election of October 2018, President Muhammadu Buhari, then APC presidential aspirant, secured 2,931,235 votes across the 484 wards in the 44 LGAs of Kano State — according to a statement

by Abba Anwar, Chief Press Secretary to Abdullahi Ganduje, the governor of the state.

In February 2019, the same person who had previously garnered almost 3 million votes won all Kano LGAs in the presidential election with 1,464,768 votes — less than 50 percent of the votes he polled in the primary election.

This inconsistencies leaves big questions as to the credibility of direct primaries, moreso when the voter's register is manual and inaccessible to the public.

The consensus mode, on the other hand, takes away the only real power that members of political parties have, which is to vote in their preferred candidate to represent the party. Consensus mode subverts popular will as the nomination of candidates become the exclusive preserve of political gladiators

within the party.

As with the other two, indirect primaries are also not foolproof. It is filled with loopholes that can be exploited, one of which is the ease of bribing party delegates to subvert the will of the people they represent and vote instead for the highest bidder. There are also concerns that the choice of delegates can be tilted to favour a candidate's political interest. The emergence of Bisi Kolawole, the anointed candidate of former Governor Ayo Fayose, amid claims of alleged ‘compromise’ of the process in favour of Mr Fayose’s candidate, is one such example.

While we wait on Mr President, we must begin to make our voices heard, especially as it concerns the type of candidates we will vote for. Candidates should be selected on the basis of these 5Cs - Competence, Capacity, Character, Courage & Compassion. No more incompetence.

No more sentiments. Political parties must know that it is not fun and games, as usual.

It is important to note that the candidates we vote for are products of primaries, therefore, if we fail to signal the kind of candidates that we want so political parties can factor it in as they go into primaries, we will keep on complaining long after the elections have come and gone.

In the words of Marian Wright Edelman, “Democracy is not a spectator sport”. Get involved, make your voices heard, participate actively, prioritise candidates who only have a clear-cut road map for developing your respective states, but first, register to get your Permanent Voters Card (PVC). Without getting your PVC, you lose your chance to select competent candidates.

I end with the words of Peggy Noonan, "Our political leaders will know our priorities only if we tell them, again and again, and if those priorities begin to show up in the polls." t3BDIBFM &OJ JT B DPOUFOU BOE FEJUPSJBM BOBMZTU CBTFE JO -BHPT 4IF DBO CF SFBDIFE BU $IJOFNFSFNFOJ!HNBJM DPN

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THURSDAY MARCH 3, 2022 •T H I S D AY

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

25

BUSINESSWORLD R A T E S MONEY MARKET

A S

REPO

A T

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email oriarehu.eromosele@thisdaylive.com

08056356325

M A R C H

S & P INDEX

2 , 2 0 2 2

S & P INDEX

EXCHANGE RATE

OBB

14.00%

CALL

4%

INDEX LEVEL

565.29%

1/4 TO DATE

6.06%

N412.08/ 1 US DOLLAR*

OVERNIGHT

14.50%

1-MONTH

6%

1-DAY

–0.11%

YEAR TO DATE

– 15.66%

*AS AT LAST FRIDAY

3-MONTH

10%

MONTH-TO-DATE

0.41%

NIMC’s Enrolment Figure Hits 75.36m in February as Lagos Leads with Over 8.7m

Emma Okonji The Nation wide National Identification Number (NIN) enrolment figures of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), as at February 21, 2022, stood at 75.36 million unique records, statistics obtained by THISDAY from the official website of NIMC has revealed.

The data also showed that Lagos State is leading other states

in Nigeria, having recorded the highest cumulative enrolment figure of over 8.7 million, as at February 21 this year.

Regional figures indicated an equal distribution across Northern and Southern parts of the country.

However, the general enrolment distribution by gender showed that males had greater enrolment number of 56 per cent, than females that had 44 per cent enrolment number.

Diaspora enrolment of females, stood at 44, 033, while diaspora enrolment for males, stood at 55,181 as at February 21, 2022.

The top 10 states that are leading in enrolment number are Lagos, with 8,702,838, followed by Kano, with 6,148,337 and Kaduna, with 4,4485,752 enrolment number.

Others are Oyo, with 3,068,005 enrolment figure; Ogun, with 3,044,046 enrolment; Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, with 2,836,167

enrolment; Rivers, with 2,296,830 enrolment; Katsina, with 2,255,297 enrolment; Delta, with 2,082,347 and Borno, with 1,957,248.

According to the statistics, the bottom 10 states that are lagging behind for NIN enrolment, include: Akwa-Ibom, with 1,350,087 enrolment; Imo, with 1,278,015 enrolment; Zamfara, with 1,247,829 enrolment; Enugu, with 1,242,934 enrolment; Yobe, with 1,108,883 enrolment and Taraba, with 1,105,349.

Others states at the bottom of the enrolment ladder, include: Ekiti, with 865,024 enrolment; Cross River, with 851,238 enrolment; Ebonyi, with 616,590 enrolment; while Bayelsa had the least number in NIN enrolment, with 511,694 enrolment as at February 21, 2022, which is the latest statistics released

by NIMC on its website.

Before now, NIN enrolment figures across the country was abysmally low, and Nigerians have attributed

the low level of enrolment to lack of awareness campaign on the part of government, coupled with the limited enrolment centres across the country, a situation that caused congestions and stampede at the few enrolment centres across the country.

The February figures released by NIMC, however showed a jump in the number of NIN enrolment figures from 5.01 million in 2020 to Continued on page 29

How Nigeria’s Tax Earnings Fell by 26% in Q4 2021 Raheem Akingbolu The decrease in Nigeria’s earnings from Company Income Tax (CIT) for Q4 2021 by 26.39 per cent on a quarter-on-quarter (Q-o-Q) basis from N472.52 billion in Q3 2021, was as a result of decreases in collections in some critical sectors

of the economy, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has said.

According to the NBS, the critical sectors include; administrative and support service activities (-72.15 per cent); agriculture, forestry and fishing (-34.52 per cent); arts, entertainment and recreation (-25.31 per cent); education (-1.61 per cent);

financial and insurance activities (-5.52 per cent); information and communication (-4.33 per cent); manufacturing (-23.21 per cent); and mining and quarrying (-7.56 per cent).

According to the bureau’s report for February 2022, Nigeria’s earnings from Company Income Tax (CIT)

for Q4 2021 stood at N347.81 billion, a decline by 26.39 per cent on a quarter-on-quarter basis from N472.52 billion in Q3 2021.

Giving a breakdown of the income, the bureau indicated that local payments recorded were N258.85 billion, while Foreign CIT Payment contributed N88.96 billion.

Meanwhile, it has been further elucidated that irrespective of the above, positive growth was recorded in some other sectors.

“On a quarter-on-quarter basis, positive growths were recorded in accommodation and food service activities (116.01%); activities of extraterritorial organizations

and bodies (128.92%); activities of households as employers, undifferentiated goods and servicesproducing activities of households for own use (563.56%); construction (33.32%); electricity, gas, steam, and air conditioning supply (84.68%); Continued on page 28

MMAARRKKEETTDDATA UA G RUCSH T 12 1, ,2 20 02 2 1 ATAAASSAT ATWWEEDDNNEESSDDAY, AY,AM ONNDDSS FFGGNN BBO DESCRIPTION 11.668 FGNSB 12.75 27-APR15-AUG-2021 2023 10.301 FGNSB 14.20 14-MAR16-AUG-2021 2024 11.150 FGNSB 13.53 23-MAR11-SEP-2021 2025 12.364 FGNSB 12.50 22-JAN12-SEP-2021 2026 12.175 FGNSB 16.2884 1710-OCT-2021 MAR-2027

BILLS

OTC FX F U T U R E S

100.09 106.80

3.16 6.53

Change Change (%) (%) 0.00 -0.01

100.10 111.08

3.16 8.18

0.00 -0.01

9-Sep-21 NTB 28-Apr-22

3.10 3.07

3.11 0.00 0.00 3.08

100.67 113.86

3.13 8.30

0.00 -0.60

16-Sep-21 3.13 3.15 NTB 12-May-22

3.16 0.00 0.00 3.14

100.80 107.71

3.12 0.00 10.05

30-Sep-21 NTB 9-Jun-22

3.25 3.24

3.08 0.00 10.45

NTB 14-Jul-22 14-Oct-21

3.35 3.38

Price

101.47 122.43

Yield

MATURITY

Change(%) (%) Discount Yield Change

26-Aug-21 NTB 10-Mar-22

3.00 2.87

3.00 0.00 0.00 2.87

CONTRACT TENOR (MONTH) 1

Contract

Current Rate ($/₦)

AUG 25 420.93 NGUS MAR 30 2021 2022 427.24

2

SEP 27 29 2022 2021 428.93 422.38 NGUS APR

3

OCT 27 423.83 NGUS MAY 25 2021 2022 430.63

3.26 0.00 0.00 3.27

4

NOV29 242022 2021 432.32 425.28 NGUS JUN

3.37 0.00 0.00 3.43

5

DEC27 292022 2021 434.02 426.73 NGUS JUL

CCPs Ps MATURITY

Discount Discount Yield Yield Change Change(%) (%)

MREPCP CPVI XXXI UNCP 13-AUG-21 2-MAY-22 UNCPCP CPIIII 27NEVE 24AUG-21 MAY-22 VAAG CP II I 27DANC 25AUG-21 MAY-22 TTNG CP V II 2631TRBH AUG-21 JUL-22 SIBP CP 2-SEPFSDH CPIVI 21 1-AUG-22

9.02 8.77

9.03 8.90

4.26 16.28

4.27 16.91 0.00 0.00

10.20 8.68

10.25 8.86 0.00 0.00

4.59 11.46

4.60 12.01 0.00 0.00

4.13 8.17

4.14 8.46

0.00 0.00

0.00 0.00

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022 ˾ T H I S D AY

BUSINESSWORLD

NEWS

BOOSTING FINANCIAL INCLUSION…

L-R: MD/CEO, Global InfoSwift, Afolabi Oke; MD/CEO, EMTECH, Carmelle Cadet; Executive Director, EMTECH Africa, Tunji Odumuboni and Enterprise Project Manager, Global InfoSwift, Joy Rowland, at the media briefing to announce ‘FINREG Learn’ initiative for financial inclusion, which held in Lagos… recently

ATCON Lists Challenges of Critical National Infrastructure, Seeks FG’s Intervention Emma Okonji

The Association of Telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), has called on the federal government to rise up to the challenges affecting the distribution and maintenance of critical national infrastructure across the country, in order to nip such challenges in the bud.

President of ATCON, Ikechukwu Nnamani, made the call in Abuja recently, while presenting a technical paper at the National Stakeholders Summit on Protecting the Integrity of Nigeria’s National Critical Infrastructure, Monuments and Business Assets.

He called on the federal government to ensure that all pending bills and policies necessary to secure the assets of Nigeria, that are before the National Assembly, be passed without further delay.

According to him, “Nigerian cannot therefore afford not to put in place all the building blocks to address the current challenges facing the country in the area of critical national infrastructure, monuments, and business assets. The time has come to sign and give effects to all pending bills and policies necessary to secure the assets of Nigeria.”

Nnamani listed the key challenges being faced in the area of Nigeria’s Critical Infrastructure to include: Uneven spread of critical infrastructure across the country; Vandalism and theft of national infrastructure; Lack of cooperation by many states and local governments with private sector

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Comms/e-Business Editor Emma Okonji Aviation Editor Chinedu Eze Asst. Editor, Money Market Nume Ekeghe Senior Correspondent Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising) Correspondents James Emejo (Finance) Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Chineme Okafo (Energy) Emmanuel Addeh (Energy) Reporters Nosa Alekhuogie (ICT) Peter Uzoho (Energy) Ugo Aliogo (Development)

to enable implementation of much needed infrastructure; Destruction of infrastructure as a result of security unrest in parts of the country; Lack of human capital and Lack of adequate funding.

He also listed the key challenges facing Monuments and Artifacts to include: Lack of maintenance culture; Lack of proper inventory and identification; Theft and vandalism and Need for creations of new monuments and artifacts.

He then listed the challenges facing Business Assets to include: Lack of timely protection from security organs during crises; Lack of public utility and infrastructure leading to high cost of business and Lack of ideal long-term financing options.

He said the summit would present a veritable platform and the will to address the identified challenges.

Nnamani explained that the efforts by the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) in developing policies

and guidelines to protect the critical infrastructure were right steps in the right direction.

“The latest edition of Nigeria’s National Security Strategy (NNSS) 2019, captured and emphasised the urgent need for safeguarding these assets. Key components of the strategy document include the objectives of identifying, classifying and prioritising Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) and to determine appropriate levels of protection required for each

CNAI or groups of CNAI; enhance the resilience of CNAI to hazards; and minimize the effect of attacks or disasters on CNAI,” Nnamani said.

According to him, the efforts of all arms of the security agencies not limited to the military and police force but also the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, which has continued to make tremendous efforts to fulfill its obligation as the lead agency in the protection of critical national assets and Infrastructure through effective synergy

with sister agencies and other critical stakeholders within available resources at its disposal, is well commended.

Nnamani however advised that more efforts should be put in place to ensure the protection of Critical National Infrastructure, Monuments, and Business Assets in Nigeria, adding that Nigeria has to take full advantage of modern technology in addressing the challenges confronting its Critical Infrastructure, Monuments and Business Assets.

Seplat, ExxonMobil Deal Positive for Nigerian Economy, Says Wood Mackenzie Wood Mackenzie, a trusted intelligence provider that empowers decisionmakers with unique insights on the world’s natural resources has applauded the recent acquisition of entire share capital of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU), a subsidiary of ExxonMobil.

In a recent insight, it said that in the energy transition era, both ExxonMobil and Seplat will be pleased with the deal adding that the deal offers huge upside for oil as well as gas.

Seplat Energy Plc on February 25 announced an agreement to acquire the entire share capital of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPNU), a subsidiary of ExxonMobil.

Also, Wood Mackenzie, said because this deal is a corporate acquisition, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has no rights to pre-empt a deal under the Joint Operating Agreement (JOA), which governs the JV, rather that ministerial consent would be the only hurdle remaining, “although nothing can be taken for granted.

It added, “MPNU has a 40 per cent operated interest in a Joint Venture with NNPC (60 per cent). The JV includes OMLs 67, 68, 70, 104, the Qua Iboe oil export terminal. MPNU

also has a 51percent interest in the Bonny River NGL Recovery project.

Seplat has agreed to pay $1,283 million plus a contingent consideration of up to $300 million. The effective date is 1 January 2021 and completion is expected in H2 2022, pending ministerial approval. Seplat’s debt financing of $825 million is fully committed by a syndicate of Nigerian and African banks, and energy and commodity traders.

“Implications: If it completes, the deal will be transformational for Seplat Energy. It is already the leading indigenous company in Nigeria, but this will triple its working interest production to over 140,000 boe/d.

In total, Seplat will operate 15percent of Nigerian oil production.

“Crucially, the deal diversifies its operations into shallow water, which is largely devoid of the thefts afflicting its onshore operations. Although this is Seplat’s first offshore acquisition, it will acquire all of MPNU’s Nigerian staff, thus allaying any concerns about its operational capabilities.”

On valuation it added, “Our equity-based valuation of MPNU excluding the Qua Iboe terminal - is $870 million (discounted 10percent, January 2021, $50/bbl long-term).

However, at $70/bbl, we value the company at $1.678billion. In the energy transition era, ExxonMobil will be pleased with this deal. But so will Seplat, as the deal offers huge upside for oil as well as gas.

“The portfolio includes a massive 1.3 billion boe of contingent resources, 75percent of which is gas. Less than half of its 70 fields have been developed. Although the JV has been in production since the early 1970s, its maturity relates more to the extensive infrastructure than the reservoirs themselves. Yes, many fields are in decline, but they have also been under-invested for over 20 years.

“Seplat has built a business turning around the Majors’ unwanted assets, a process it started in 2010. With the acquisition, its portfolio becomes very oil dominated. ExxonMobil refused to be drawn into the high risk domestic gas market, and had no exposure to NLNG. As a result the acreage has the highest concentration of gas flaring in the country. Seplat, a listed company, will need to tackle this immediately.”

“Longer-term it will look to develop access into the domestic market in line with government policy, while there is also scope for LNG too. An FLNG project at Yoho on OML 104

was already under discussion before the deal. That could now accelerate, while long-term supply to NLNG is another option.

“There is also possible upside from the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) fiscal terms. Our analysis shows the JV portfolio would more than double in value if Seplat converts. However, this is far from certain, since it would have to relinquish up to 60percent of its acreage and much of the resource it has just acquired. A thorough review of its now extensive portfolio to identify the most advantaged barrels will be an urgent priority. The deadline for converting to the new fiscal terms is February 2023.

“The deal is not without risks either.

Seplat will have to find billions of dollars in the longer term to transform its portfolio and some rationalisation could follow. NNPC will of course be Seplat’s JV partner, and its ability to fund its 60percent equity longer term as it transitions to a limited liability company will be just as critical to the success of the deal, “it stated.

“ExxonMobil has been planning to sell its JV business for years, and its exit is overdue. The shallow water JV assets have long been non-core and are some of the highest-cost barrels

in its global portfolio.

Although emissions were not a key driver for selling, the deal will help with its recently announced net-zero targets for scope 1 and 2 emissions.

The portfolio has an intensity of 48 kgCO2e/boe, more than double its global average.

“It can now focus on renegotiating workable fiscal terms for its Nigerian deepwater assets like Erha and Usan. However, if that does not end successfully, a country exit could be on the cards, given its deepwater options in Guyana and Brazil.

“Because this is a corporate acquisition, NNPC has no rights to pre-empt a deal under the Joint Operating Agreement (JOA), which governs the JV. This means that ministerial consent would be the only hurdle remaining, although nothing can be taken for granted.

“Shell’s ongoing divestment of its subsidiary SPDC, similarly rules out pre-emption. If NNPC wants to acquire that portfolio, then it will have to out-bid the competition. If successful in raising up to $5 billion with Afrexim Bank it would have the firepower to do just that, and massively strengthen its position in the onshore delta, “Mackenzie said.

Pollicy to Impact 1m African Females by 2040 with Digital Program Emma Okonji Pollicy, an African feminist civic technology collective, whose research spans across the use and implementation of data and technology to engineer social change among women, has promised to train over one million African females by 2040, using its Digital Ambassadors program.

The digital program, which will be launched in Uganda and Tanzania, and later in Nigeria and other African countries, targets 200,000 females in Uganda and Tanzania, in the first

instance, before spreading to other African countries to raise the target to one million by 2040.

The initiative, which is being celebrated to mark the fifth anniversary of Policy team’s operation, and in honour of the International Women’s Day celebration, is dedicated to bringing swift solutions to the problems and continued prevalence of the digital gender divide that disportionately affect young women across subsaharan Africa and the larger African continent, by fostering the absence of economic well-being on the continent.

Policy seeks to up-skill women digitally and include more young women in the digital space and give them access to digital tools and more meaningful digital use, create swift impact by implementing initiatives that address the main facts that can close the digital gender divide -access, digital literacy and online safety.

Speaking during a recent webinar organised by the Policy Team, its Founder and Managing Director, Neema Iyer, said the Digital Ambassadors Program would promote initiatives and projects

that would tackle the great societal challenges and biases such as harmful societal norms and inequitable access to education that have encouraged the marginalisation and exclusion of women in participating and benefiting from the growing digital ecosystem in Africa.

Programs Manager at Pollicy, Phillip Ayazika, stated that the program launch would not only mark the five year milestone of Pollicy’s impact across East Africa, but also usher its further contributions to causes that are prevalent in all regions of

sub-Saharan Africa, particularly problems associated with limited digital access, literacy and online safety from women in sub-Saharan Africa.

One of the speakers at the webinar, Irene Mwendwa, who identified lack of legislative framework to protect women and girls online across African countries, said Policy had also established relationships with government bodies in most African countries to address the lack of legislative framework that will protect women and girls while browsing online.

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E-BUSINESS

As 5G Rollout in Nigeria Beckons Last week’s meeting of the payment deadline for 5G licence by MTN Nigeria Plc and Mafab Communications, is a clear indication that both telecoms operators are ready to roll out 5G network in Nigeria, anytime soon, writes Emma Okonji

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igerians from all walks of life, including industry stakeholders, were in jubilation last week when the news of the payment for 5G license fees by MTN Nigeria and Mafab Communications was first reported

by THISDAY Newspapers.

Both telecoms operators met the payment deadline of February 24, 2022, when they paid the bid price of $273.6 million each, with an additional payment of $15.9 million by MTN Nigeria, to get the first slot in the 3.5GHz spectrum band that was auctioned last December by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), for 5G licence.

Given the additional $15.9 million paid by MTN for the first slot, both telecoms operators paid a total sum of $563.1 million for the 5G licence, which they won in a competitive bid process in December 2021.

Following the successful auction of the 5G licence last year, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof.

Umar Garba Danbatta, quickly announced the payment deadline of February 24, 2022 for the payment of the licence fee, as contained in the Information Memorandum (IM) for 5G licence auction.

According to the Information Memorandum, any operator who fails to meet up with the payment deadline, will not be awarded the 5G licence, and will also lose the initial bid deposit of N7.5 billion, which is the 10 per cent non-refundable deposit for the reserved bid price of $197.4 million (N75 billion), that was paid by all bidders.

But to the joy of Nigerians, both winners of the 5G licence met the payment deadline last week. Although MTN Nigeria had paid long before the deadline, Mafab Communications only paid a day to the deadline, which was February 23, 2022.

The meeting of the payment deadline has continued to elicit joy among Nigerians and Industry stakeholders, who are of the view that the payment is a clear indication that both operators are ready to rollout 5G network across Nigeria, anytime soon.

NCC’S POSITION

Confirming and announcing the payment from both MTN Nigeria Plc and Mafab Communications, NCC in statement signed by its Director, Public Affairs, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, said: “Provisional winners of the 3.5 Gigahertz (GHz) spectrum licence, MTN Communications Nigeria Plc and Mafab Communications Limited, have made their full payment of $273.6 million each for the 5G Spectrum license to the Nigerian Communications Commission. The Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Prof.

Umar Danbatta, officially confirmed the payment status on February 24, 2022, just as the deadline set for the two winners of the spectrum auction elapsed.

“As part of the auction process emplaced by the Commission in the Information Memorandum (IM), three companies, namely MTN Nigeria, Mafab Communications Ltd and Airtel Networks Ltd submitted bids with an initial bid deposit (IBD) of $19.74 million, representing 10 per cent of the Reserve Price of the 3.5GHz Spectrum by the close of the Bid submission date of November 29, 2021.”

The statement further said::”Following the successful auction on December 13, 2021 and the emergence of MTN and Mafab as winners, they were required to pay the balance of the bid amount of $253.86 million on or before February 24, 2022. However, aside the $273.6 million payment, MTN paid additional $15.9 million, being the bidding sum it offered at the assignment state of the spectrum auction, making it clinch its preferred Lot 1 (3500-3600Megahertz-MHz) in the 3.5Ghz spectrum; while, Mafab Communications, which bided lower at the assignment stage, consequentially settled with Lot 2 (3700-3800Mhz) at no extra cost.”

Confirming the payments by the two licensees,

Danbatta said: “I wish to officially announce that NCC has received and confirmed payments from MTN and Mafab for their acquisition of 1 slot of 100Mhz each in the 3.5Ghz spectrum auction, which was successfully conducted by the Commission on December 13, 2021.

They both met the deadline of February 24, 2022 as set by the Commission”.

“Arising from this and on behalf of the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ibrahim Pantami, the Board and Management of the NCC, I wish to congratulate the MTN and Mafab for this feat, as we look forward to accomplishing other deployment timelines in the 5G deployment roadmap, as articulated in the National Policy on 5G Networks for Nigeria’s Digital Economy,” Danbatta stated.

For meeting the payment deadline, Danbatta commended the two companies for their commitment to 5G deployment drive through their private investments, which he said, was a demonstration of the licensees’ belief in the sound regulatory environment in the Nigerian telecommunications sector.

Danbatta also expressed appreciation to the federal government for its support and commitment to the deployment of 5G technology in Nigeria which, he said, would bring substantial network improvements, including higher connection speed, mobility and capacity, as well as low-latency capabilities to communications services in Nigeria.

The Commission published a Public Notice on its decision to award two lots of 100MHz Time Division Duplex (TDD) available in the 3.5 GHz band through an auction process, to support the delivery of ubiquitous broadband services for the deployment of 5G technology in Nigeria.

Subsequently, an Information Memorandum (IM) was issued on November 10, 2021, in which Bid Applications for the available spectrum lots were invited. By the deadline for receipt of applications on November 29, 2021, the Commission received applications from three licensed telecommunications companies, namely: Airtel Networks Limited, Mafab Communications Limited, and MTN Communications Nigeria Plc. The Auction held successfully on Monday, December 13, 2021 at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja with the three bidders competing for the available two lots in which the Commission adopted the Ascending Clock Auction format that ended after Round 11, and proceeded to the Assignment Stage. In the auction, MTN and Mafab emerged provisional licence winners and arising from this, the winning bid price for the auction was put at $273.6 million for each lot of 100 MHz TDD. The Provisional licence winners were then directed to pay the winning bid price less the Intention-to-Bid Deposit, by February 24, 2022.

Industry stakeholders and observers have commended the Commission for the auction process, described as efficient, fair, well-organised and transparent; as well as designed to deliver the ideal outcome which saw the strongest bidders emerge as winners, raising a substantial amount for the federal government and setting the stage for the next phase in Nigeria’s 5G roadmap.

STAKEHOLDERS’ POSITION

Chairman of the Association of Licensed Telecoms Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga Adebayo, said 5G licence and 5G network deployment would mean a lot of cash inflow into the Nigerian economy, which goes to show that telecoms is the major driver of the Nigerian economy. “5G will create a lot of prospects for the Nigerian economy.

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

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FMN’s Inclusive Strategy to Make Nigeria Self-sufficient in Sugar Production Kayode Tokede was among select journalists who undertook a tour to Sunti Golden Sugar Estate, a 30-kilometer east of Mokwa on the bank of Niger River in Niger State where one of the subsidiaries of Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc (FMN), Golden Penny Sugar factory, has 22,000 ha of sugarcane land. Among others, the tour was meant to decipher what makes the company outstanding among its peers in sugarcane production and maintaining its position as the leading company inthe Backward Integration Program (BIP) of the Federal Government

Aerial view of the Sunti Golden Sugar Estate, Mokwa, Niger state

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n a move to engender world-class competitiveness in sugar production and also ensure Nigeria’s self-sufficiency sugar production, FMN, one of Nigeria’s leading food and agro-allied companies, has maintained its position as leading company to reckon with over the years.

While there is a clear need for greater diversification of the Nigerian economy to promote quality growth, economic transformation and employment, a company like FMN has been able to position itself at the forefront of Backward Integration Program (BIP) through investments in local production and engaging the hosting communities.

The strategy of the business expansion model of FMN, which has over the years diversified into FastMoving Consumer Goods (FCMG), is not only organic growth but acquisitions and partnerships, the company through its Golden Sugar Company has made the largest investment on a sugar BIP under the Nigeria Sugar Masterplan Plan (NSMP).

Part of the reason the company in February 2022 was adjudged by National Sugar Development Council (NSDC) as the best performing BIP as it expands investments for the sustainable development of the Sugar industry.

The company’s subsidiary, Golden Sugar Company with an investment of over N73billion developed Sunti Golden Sugar estates and collaborating with 36 communities in job creation, skill development and securing the plantation from outside encroachment.

FMN investments at Sunti, Niger State, has significantly benefitted neighbouring communities who are feeling the impact through numerous community improvement projects such as access roads, electrification projects, primary healthcare and educational facilities, and expanded youth job opportunities.

FMN’S Sunti Golden Sugar Estates is the first and only Greenfield investment under the NSMP currently producing raw sugar. Sunti Sugar Estates which was commissioned by President Muhammadu Buhari in March 2018 is 22,000 hectares of irrigable farmland and a Sugar mill that process 4,500 metric tons of sugarcane per day.

Sunti Golden Sugar Estates is the most state-of-the-art operational sugar production facility in Nigeria and located in strategic location for all-around year sugarcane planting.

Pestcide application process at the Sunti Golden Estate, Mokwa, Niger state

The company with 4,500 seasonal workers of which 350 are female that specialize in planting sugarcane and 1,500 workers specialize in crop maintenance and irrigation. The target upon completion of the project is 7,000 direct and 50,000 indirect jobs across the value chain.

The farm has three kinds of irrigation systems that include sprinklers, pivots, and furrow managed by the workers on the daily basis and this is to ensure that the sugarcane plantations have access to water round the year for robust yield and steady growth.

As gathered during the tour, the management realized that the adoption of mechanized farming saves cost but embracing workers from communities was a move to create jobs and get them engaged.

A total of twelve temporary settlements were constructed to accommodate the sugarcane cutters with access to electricity, daily food, and portable water. The aim is to save the workers’ transportation cost.

BENEFITS TO HOST COMMUNITIES AND JOB CREATION

A sugar planter, Ramat Labran with a Food & Nutritionist educational background at one of the colleges of education in Niger state expressed that the company has impacted a lot in her life, among other 350 female sugarcane planters.

She noted that the monthly income from the company is used to assist her parents and younger ones who are still in secondary school.

Speaking on knowledge impacted by Golden Penny Sugar, she said: “While in the college of education, I was at the food & nutrition department with a little background of sugarcane varieties.

“Right now, I can tell you different varieties of sugarcane and the ones that can germinate on poor soil. I have been empowered a lot over the last three years and the experience is wonderful.

“Other sugarcane planters have also benefited from working with the company. The work does not stop them from doing other things. We resume 6 am and by 12pm we have closed for the day.

Some are artisans and the monthly fund from the farm is used to support their family.”

Agric Manager, Golden sugar, Muhammad Iwba who overseas 3,500hectares of sugarcane land, expressed that it was a big challenge to make the hosting communities understand the importance of sugarcane plantation in Niger state Iwba, who has been with the company since August 2012 noted that the management over the years has empowered youths in the host communities and ensures that the youths are properly taken care of..

“We consider youths with good behaviour and those who are ready to work for the growth of the company and communities at large. The company has provided free accommodation, free food for season workers.

“There is free portable water, and it is the same water for everyone. We also employed camps overheads and their responsibility is to ensure that the camps are in good operations,” he said.

On what FMN is doing differently on sugarcane cultivation, he said: “We do not plant sugarcane varieties based on its history somewhere. We have our research team who gives close monitoring to sugarcane varieties we wanted to plant. We always spend a lot of time stuffing any sugarcane varieties into the farm.

“We always conduct soil tests before planting any sugarcane. It tells us the varieties we suppose to plant and the quantity to plant. These things are very expensive, but FMN understands the importance of doing them.”

OUT-GROWERS INCENTIVE

The company in Sunti community through its outgrower scheme encourages sugarcane planting to among some of its host communities with free land incentive, fertilizer, water, electricity and seedlings.

Mr. Isa OseniLwafu, an out-grower from Lwafu community who was excited with the program, commanded the management of FMN for making available one hectare of its landed property to the farmers.

“Before FMN commenced sugar plantation, we were rice farmers but switched to sugarcane on the heels of FMN incentives to farmers. Our children have the opportunity to work with FMN.”

FURTHER EXPANSION IN 2022 AND BEYOND

The company in 2022 aimed at developing 15,000 hectares under cane and 5,000 hectares as an integrated out-grower scheme. To achieve this target, the 2022 workplan consist of plough-out and plan 850 hectares; further development Sunti, next to Niger River, adding another 700 hectares of new planting and cater for higher crop increase cane haulage capacity by addition of harvesting equipment and modifying the cane carrier with tippler to accommodate all methods of can haulage.

With a total landmass of over 21,000 hectares, including a world-class sugar refinery, the company continued to expand operations at Sunti Golden Sugar Estate including an additional $300 million in Nasarawa state and a commitment to investing another N70 billion over the next three years to develop the upland area of the Sunti Sugar Estate.

Known for its flagship food brand, ‘Golden Penny’, wheat milling forms the financial backbone of FMN’S diversified company.

The 60 years old company pioneered flour milling in Nigeria when its first mill was commissioned at Apapa in 1962 with a grinding capacity of 500 metric tonnes of wheat per day. Today, the Apapa milling complex has a rated capacity of over 8,000 metric tons per day making it one of the largest single-site mills in the world.

Apart from FMN’S initiatives and investments to transform Nigeria’s agricultural prowess, boost output and generate much needed foreign exchange, its contribution in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors is also helping the company to achieve one of the cardinal drivers of its backward integration programmes, creation of employment opportunities for millions of Nigerians.

FMN over the years had maintained its position to feed the nation every day through investment in the food value chain by making an impact on the grassroots level through its business activities.

HOW NIGERIA’S TAX EARNINGS FELL BY 26% IN Q4 2021 human health and social work activities (31.47%); other service activities (37.28%); professional, scientific and technical activities (51.47%); public administration and defense, compulsory social security (29.46%); real estate activities (17.99%); transportation and storage (2.04%); water supply,

sewerage, waste management and remediation activities (26.08%); and wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles (13.91%), ”the report stated.

In terms of sectoral contributions, the top three largest shares in Q4 2021 were information and communication (N51.05 billion)

with 19.72 per cent; manufacturing (N45.09 billion) with 17.42 per cent; and financial and insurance activities (N31.06 billion) with 12.00 per cent.

Conversely, activities of households as employers, undifferentiated goods- and services-producing activities of households for own use (N189.45 million) with 0.07

per cent; water supply, sewerage, waste management and remediation activities (N328.58 million) with 0.13 per cent; and activities of extraterritorial organizations and bodies (N447.01 million) with 0.17 per cent were top three lowest shares in Q4 2021.

This notwithstanding, on a year-

on-year basis, CIT collections in Q4 2021 increased by 17.61 per cent from Q4 2020.

However, experts have established that another factor affecting Nigeria’s revenue is the continuous payment of fuel subsidy, which gulps a significant portion of the country’s income. To this end, it has further been stated

that it has become imperative for Nigeria to improve its non-oil revenue in order to compensate for its oil revenue underperformance.

Although the decline recorded in the fourth quarter is worrisome, 2021 as a whole is a record-making year in terms of collection of company income taxes for Nigeria.

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NCC to Support AOL Administration with Revenue Assurance Solutions Emma Okonji The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has said it is commitment to deploy a Revenue Assurance Solution (RAS) in the telecommunication sector to ensure a more robust Annual Operating Levy (AOL) administration in the telecom industry.

NCC made the commitment during the industry stakeholder

consultative engagement forum, organised by the Commission at its Head Office in Abuja recently.

The RAS application is designed to ensure a linkage with licensed telecommunications operators’ systems and will have the capability of capturing and reporting in near real-time, billing activities by the operators for the purposes, amongst others, of computing and assuring with minimal margin of error, the

accruable AOL to NCC from the licensees.

When deployed, the NCC RAS will bring significant solutions to the industry’s challenges, including a more effective and enhanced monitoring and regulation of the licensed telecommunications operators. Speaking at the event, which was well attended by representatives of Mobile Network Operators (MNOs), Licensees in the

Value-Added Service chain, officials of the Commission and other industry stakeholders, the Executive Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof. Umar Garba Danbatta, said AOL would remain the bedrock of an efficient and effective telecommunications regulatory environment.

Danbatta said the event was organised to sensitise industry stakeholders through a conversation on the Commission’s plan to

deploy RAS that would instil greater transparency and increased accuracy in the administration of AOL in the sector, as stipulated by the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA), 2003.

According to the EVC, since the NCA 2003 came into force and pursuant to Section 72 of the Act, various efforts have been made by the Commission towards achieving an effective AOL administration,

including the development of AOL Regulations 2014, which is being reviewed.

According to Danbatta, “The Commission believes that the deployment of appropriate RAS would enhance monitoring and regulatory activities around AOL administration and confer higher levels of integrity and fidelity on the AOL figures obtainable in the industry.”

also set up enrolment centres in over 31 countries to cater for Nigerians in the Diaspora. The unprecedented growth in the number of NIN enrolment in such a short period, with about three to four SIMs linked to a NIN, reflects the concerted effort of the federal government, the Nigerian populace and legal residents and

this is truly commendable.”

Pantami further said the extension would enable the federal government to consolidate the gains of the process and accelerate the enrolment of Nigerians in key areas like the remote areas, diaspora, schools, hospitals, worship centres, and the registration of legal residents.

NIMC’S ENROLMENT FIGURE HITS 75.36M IN FEBRUARY AS LAGOS LEADS WITH OVER 8.7M 10 million in May 2021 and to 71 million in December 2021, and a further rise in the figures to 75.36 million in February 2022.

Giving reasons for the jump in NIN enrolment, the Director General of NIMC, Aliyu Aziz, told THISDAY that NIMC increased the number of enrolment centres across the country from 1,000 in 2020, to 14,000 as at

December 31, 2021.

According to Aziz, “To reduce the crowd besieging our offices for enrolment, the commission introduced a number booking system, which allows only persons who have been pre-booked for a particular day to visit our offices. We also encouraged NIN application through the

pre-enrolment portal on the NIMC official web page- www. nimc.gov.ng.”

The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Dr. Isa Ibrahim Pantami, while announcing the extension of the deadline for the NIN-SIM linkage from December 31, 2021 to March 31 2022, said: “Industry stakeholders have

Glo Customers to Enjoy Bumper Bonus in Mi-Fi, Router Offer Emma Okonji Subscribers to Globacom are to enjoy up to 60GB and 180GB respectively in the newly unveiled Glo Mifi and Router offer by the company, which will run all through the year, 2022, the telecoms company has said.

Globacom in a statement, said: “Any customer who purchases a Glo MiFi or Router from any of the 91 Gloworld shops across the country wil be rewarded with bonus data of up to 60GB for the Mifi and 180GB on the Router.”

It added that the new offer was introduced to

give its esteemed customers unprecedented value for money and a delightful browsing experience on its reliable and super-fast Glo 4G LTE network.

It explained that the Mifi and Router, which have the capacity to connect up to 10 Wi-fi-enabled devices including Tablets, Laptops, Smartphones, Computers, Smart TV and Game Consoles at once, will be useful for businesses and homes as well as for individual use.

Globacom said all that its customers would need to do was to buy a new Glo MiFi device from any Gloworld retail

outlet and insert the registered Glo SIM that comes with it and they would receive the free 30GB once the device is switched on and the balance of 5GB per month for six months.

The same process applies to those who purchase the Router.

They will get 120GB free data immediately the device is switched on and the balance of 10GB per month for 6 months.

Globacom urged Nigerians to enjoy the unlimited value to stream, work and play by making utmost use of the opportunity provided by the Glo Mifi and Router offer.

applauded the federal government on the significant growth in the number of NIN enrolments and the increased drive to enlighten Nigerians and legal residents across the country on the importance of NIN enrolment. As at December 31, 2021, NIMC has established over 14,000 enrolment centres across the country. NIMC has

Terragon to Boost SMEs Businesses with New Solution Raheem Akingbolu Hope of improved business opportunities for small and mediumsized businesses (SMEs) in Nigeria may have been rekindled with the unveiling of a cost effective end-toend marketing platform by Terragon, a data and marketing technology company.

Named TerragonPrime, the solution is aimed at keeping small and medium businesses in the country and Africa in business.

The company’s Senior Vice President, Products and Products Marketing, Product, Oti Ukubeyinje, who unveiled the product to the media in Lagos at the weekend, said considering the prime position SMEs occupy in African business

ecosystem, every innovation that can keep them growing will not only benefit the continent but will also keep it as a strong contributor to world economy.

According to the SMEDAN National Survey of 2017, there are around 41.5 million SMEs in Nigeria. SMEs are businesses with less than N100 million in annual turnover and have less than 300 employees.

Oti said that as a company creating personalised experiences for Africans on mobile, Terragon felt it was a responsibility to create products that will enable SMEs gain traction and grow with the trend of global businesses.

He described TerragonPrime as an end-to-end marketing platform that

helps organisations to aggregate, enrich and activate consumer data to drive targeted and personalised experiences for cost effective customer acquisition and retention.

He said: “The product is targeted at small self-owned businesses, medium sized digital savvy businesses and organisations which provide services to SMBs-reseller opportunities.

“You may ask why we focused on Small and Medium businesses, but you would also realise that according to the World Bank, SMEs contribute about 50 percent of Africa’s GDP. They are the largest contributors to the African Economy, in the areas of jobs, contribution to Gross Domestic Products, GDP, among others.

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Xerox Set to Digitise New Work Space with Electronic Document Emma Okonji Determined to remotely manage the physical office space while working from a distant location, Xerox Corporation, the foremost document solution provider, has re-introduced 19 global solutions through its Electronic Document Management System (EDMS).

Speaking to journalists at the company’s premises in Lagos after the re-launch of the solution, the company’s General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Mr. Femi Abidoye,

said the EDMS was re-introduced into the country to meet yearning expectations and the paradigm shift in the work place occasioned by the pandemic and global workplace distruptions by professionals from all walks of life.

According to him, it would take few months to digitise the entire files of any organisation, depending on the size of the organisation and the number of branches it controls.

Since the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on organisations, there have been reductions in workplace activities,

especially activities that will ordinarily require the presence of employees in the office. Unfortunately, majority of the activities around the workplace still revolve around paperwork and physical files, a situation that has made it difficult for workplaces to really adopt the smart workplace.

Abidoye however said the XEROX workplace assistants in the intelligent atmosphere with the connect key solutions and software on Xerox device, remained the global solution to all reprograhphic expectation and documentation needs.

Jive Technologies Showcases Benefits of Edtech Innovation A Nigerian firm, Jive technologies has reaffirmed its commitment to enhance edtech through a novel software programme.

According to a statement issued by the company in Lagos recently, Jive Schools Administrative Management Software (JSAMS) is revolutionizing Nigeria education.

Giving the breakdown of its achievements in this regard, the firm stated that Jive has computerized several schools within and outside Lagos; which includes Command Day Secondary School Oshodi, Command Day Secondary School Ojo; Command Day Secondary School Odogbolu and others. It was further stated that the company has been able to generate over 70,000 users on their platform with an estimation of 150 schools in Nigeria.

The statement, which quoted the chief executive officer of Jive Technologies, Omaghomi John, stated that the firm commended Col MA Bukar for being very supportive, stating that he was the commandant who integrated JSAMS, which was the first school management software to be used by command schools in Nigeria.

According to the CEO, Jive started as a means of eradicating paperwork from schools and solving educational challenges using technology. Just as teachers struggle to input assignment and exam scores as well as keep

a daily register, likewise, many parents struggle to keep up with their children’s attendance in school, their assignments, and even examination results. This, he said, was what inspired him to create Jive.

MTN Launches Digital Multiexperience Platform withTecnotree Emma Okonji Tecnotree, a finnish-based global provider of digital transformation solutions for Communication Service Providers (CSPs) and Digital Service Providers (DSPs), has announced the launch of its digital multi-experience platform, ‘Tecnotree Moments’, in collaboration with MTN Nigeria.

The multi-experience partner ecosystem offering aims to create lifestyle bundles of content, applications and connectivity through a pre-integrated digital partner ecosystem for global, local and glocal high-demand and hyper growth sectors. The

platform will attract leading partners across different sectors such as education, entertainment, gaming, sports, health and wellness, to enter Nigeria and using direct customer billing to convert ecosystem partners into instant revenue generators across enterprise and consumer segments.

‘Tecnotree Moments’ is a gateway of digital services and lifestyle bundling products, being launched with e-sports content such as PUBG Mobile Daily, FIFA Daily, Rocket League Daily, Fortnite Monthly and Fantasy Football. Its offerings also include Africa’s topplayed games, with fresh games being updated regularly.

31

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

MARKET NEWS 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

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 01Mar-2022, unless otherwise stated.

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: +234 818 885 6757 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 Afrinvest Dollar Fund N/A N/A N/A 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 8.55% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.67 3.84 5.20% ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED info@anchoriaam.com Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 7.96% Anchoria Equity Fund 146.61 148.39 4.99% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.21 1.21 5.95% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD enquiries@arminvestmentcenter.com info@anchoriaam.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 21.25 21.89 4.76% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 478.04 492.46 5.96% ARM Ethical Fund 39.91 41.12 2.45% ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.06 1.07 -1.52% ARM Fixed Income Fund 1.02 1.03 1.11% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.83% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED info@avacapitalgroup.com Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com; Tel 08069294653 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 108.77 108.77 6.94% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Naira 1,081.32 1,081.32 8.13% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED investmentcare@axamansard.com Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund N/A N/A N/A AXA Mansard Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED info@capitalexpressassetandtrust.com Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.08 2.08 9.36% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.27 2.32 25.06% CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED mutualfunds@cardinalstone.com Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund 1.02 1.02 1.10% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD investmentmanagement@chapelhilldenham.com Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.43% Paramount Equity Fund 18.66 18.99 10.87% Women's Investment Fund 146.96 148.54 5.65% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmgtteam@cordros.com Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Cordros Milestone Fund N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Cordros Dollar Fund ($) N/A N/A N/A CORONATION ASSETS 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 N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B N/A N/A N/A EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A EMERGING AFRICA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED assetmanagement@emergingafricafroup.com Web:www.emergingafricagroup.com/emerging-africa-asset-management-limited/, Tel: 08039492594 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Emerging Africa Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.73% Emerging Africa Bond Fund 1.02 1.02 5.35% Emerging Africa Balanced Diversity Fund 1.04 1.04 14.41% Emerging Africa Eurobond Fund 101.42 101.42 3.36% FBNQUEST ASSETS MANAGEMENT LIMITED 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 1,419.67 1,419.67 10.88% FBN Balanced Fund 183.98 185.36 4.98% FBN Halal Fund 117.33 117.33 8.87% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.14% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Fund Name Legacy Money Market Fund Legacy Debt Fund Legacy Equity Fund Legacy USD Bond Fund FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Fund Name Coral Balanced Fund Coral Income Fund Coral Money Market Fund FSDH Dollar Fund

122.90 155.17

122.90 3.90% 157.31 2.95% fcmbamhelpdesk@fcmb.com

Bid Price 1.00 3.99 1.81 1.22

Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn 1.00 7.39% 3.99 -0.43% 1.85 4.38% 1.22 0.72% coralfunds@fsdhgroup.com

Bid Price 4,003.16 3,504.09 100.00

Offer Price 4,064.85 3,504.09 100.00

1.09

1.09

Yield / T-Rtn 2.85% 1.03% 6.48%

3.41%

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 N/A N/A N/A Vantage Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) N/A N/A N/A Vantage Equity Income Fund (VEIF) - June Year End N/A N/A N/A Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End N/A N/A N/A 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 1.57 1.59 3.99% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,159.53 1,159.53 1.99% 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 12.51 12.59 6.08% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 8.61% NORRENBERGER INVESTMENT AND CAPITAL MANAGEMENT LIMITED enquiries@norrenberger.com Web: www.norrenberger.com, Tel: +234 (0) 908 781 2026 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Norrenberger Islamic Fund (NIF) 101.49 101.49 9.06% Norrenberger Money Market Fund (NMMF) 100.00 100.00 8.49% 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 N/A N/A N/A PACAM Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A PACAM Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A PACAM Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A PACAM EuroBond Fund N/A N/A N/A 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 131.30 133.48 8.35% 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 1.02 1.02 9.51% 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 N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD unitedcapitalplcgroup.com Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Equity Fund 0.97 1.00 4.95% United Capital Balanced Fund 1.41 1.44 3.92% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.14 1.16 5.62% United Capital Sukuk Fund 1.09 1.09 1.24% United Capital Fixed Income Fund 1.98 1.98 1.15% United Capital Eurobond Fund 123.41 123.41 0.87% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.61% 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 Balanced Strategy Fund 13.43 13.56 1.84% Zenith ESG Impact Fund 15.28 15.45 4.60% Zenith Income Fund 22.30 22.30 1.41% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 6.40%

REITS NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

121.36 53.00

0.96% 0.51%

Bid Price

Offer Price

Yield / T-Rtn

14.16 136.05 107.11 20.01 23.06

14.26 139.46 109.47 20.11 23.16

1.37% 3.37% 3.37% 0.00% 0.00%

Fund Name SFS REIT Union Homes REIT

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund SIAML Pension ETF 40 Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund MERGROWTH ETF MERVALUE ETF

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 Money Market 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

4.45 5.82 18.68 1.00 21.19 167.24

4.55 5.92 18.88 1.00 21.39 169.24

18.15% 14.20% 8.69% 7.54% 9.24% 5.96%

NAV Per Share

Yield / T-Rtn

107.28

10.80%

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.

32

T H I S D AY ˾ , MARCH 3, 2022

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

ÜÙßÚ ÏËÞßÜÏÝ ÎÓÞÙÜ˝ Chiemelie Ezeobi ×ËÓÖ chiemelie.ezeobi@thisdaylive.com, Tel: 07010510430

Reinforcing Commitment to Address Unmet Needs, Critical Public Health Challenges To reinforce its commitment to address unmet needs and critical public health challenges, Chiemelie Ezeobi reports that Pfizer recently announced its goal of delivering breakthroughs to more patients across Africa and Middle East this year

Patrick van der Loo’s

O

n Tuesday, March 1, 2022, Pfizer Africa and Middle East (AfME), held an exclusive virtual roundtable on “ Understanding Pfizer’s Exciting Journey – including COVID-19 and Beyond”.

Coordinated by Pfizer AfME’s top two regional leaders- Patrick van der Loo, Regional President of Pfizer AfME and Yasser El Dershaby, Regional Vice President and Medical Lead of Pfizer AfME, they shed light on how Pfizer is addressing unmet healthcare needs across the region.

They also shared insights on the company’s medical innovation areas and business growth – with a focus on patients, partnerships and people.

At the roundtable, one of the several things discussed were their plans for delivering breakthroughs to more patients across the region, aiming to impact more than 45 per cent more people in 2022 versus 2021.

For the leading biopharmaceutical company, their aim is to build on its industry-leading products and innovation pipeline across its six therapeutic areas: vaccines, oncology, inflammation and immunology, internal medicine, rare diseases, and anti-infectives and sterile injectables.

On the deliverables achieved last year, they disclosed that Pfizer delivered medicines to more than 4.1 million patients across Africa and the Middle East in 2021, and is aiming to increase this by 45 per cent in 2022.

Also, its regional plan is to continue leading COVID-19 prevention and care, while also planning to have more than 50 product launches this year across AfME as the company is committed to driving health equity across the region, hoping to support the lives of over 10,000 patients in 2022 through its access programs.

On the global fight against COVID-19, they also pledged to continue to play a leading role while addressing unmet needs and critical public health challenges.

One of the best parts was how Pfizer is driving health equity across the region through

Yasser El Dershaby’s affordability programs for those who cannot afford their medicines, including enrollment models and flexible payment options.

According to the Regional President of Pfizer AfME, Patrick van der Loo, “as we continue to raise the bar within science and patient impact in the region, we are seeking even stronger collaborations with healthcare professionals, communities, and governments to ensure greater access to our breakthroughs.

“In 2021, we have reached more than 4.1 million patients across AfME, and inspire to increase patients access by more than 45 per cent in 2022. In addition to the 100 breakthroughs available in the region to support patients across six therapeutic areas – vaccines, oncology, inflammation and immunology, internal medicine, rare diseases, and anti-infectives and sterile injectables – we are planning to have over fifty product launches this year.

“We are also working towards placing affordability at the heart of our business, and last year, we have managed to support the lives of over 4,500 patients suffering from various oncology, inflammatory, and rare diseases through our 30 access programs in 11 countries across the region.

“We are aspiring to launch more than five new programs, in addition to expanding some of our current ones to include new treatments in 2022. Our hope for this year is to support the lives of over 10,000 patients across AfME. “Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has changed our way of life but we soldiered on

despite all odds, and proved that we were up to the challenge. Pfizer has pledged to provide 2 billion doses of our COVID-19 vaccine to low and middle income countries in 2021 and 2022 – at least 1 billion doses each year.

“We have fulfilled this pledge for 2021 and as of February 6, 2022, we have delivered more than 1.1 billion doses to 101 low and middle income countries. When it comes to our novel COVID-19 antiviral treatment (Paxlovid), we expect to produce 120 million treatment courses in 2022, depending on the global need. In the Middle East, Paxlovid is now available in many countries, and we are currently engaging in discussions with other local governments.”

On his part, Vice President and Regional Medical Lead at Pfizer AfME, Yasser El Dershaby said: “Patients and innovations are the driving force behind all our actions – which means that, at Pfizer in AfME, our pipeline is highly attuned to the needs of patients in the region. We also stay laser focused on clinical excellence and local R&D efforts.

“In fact, in 2021, across AfME, we generated data in 44 publications, 20 non interventional studies (NIS) and 18 clinical trials. In Saudi Arabia alone, we have collaborated with research centers to conduct phase II and III clinical trials in hemophilia, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. “ This year, we are planning to bring more Phase I and II clinical trials in South Africa, Saudi Arabia and Gulf Countries,

“Pfizer is also leveraging innovation to place itself as a key catalyst in health and socioeconomic growth across the region”

and develop several programs to bolster research capabilities and develop the infrastructure.”

Pfizer is also leveraging innovation to place itself as a key catalyst in health and socioeconomic growth across the region.

Essentially, the company continues to lead new programs in partnership with governments to create a nurturing environment for sustainable investments, including the cultivation and training of the next-generation workforce, enhancement of local R&D capability, appropriate technology transfer, as well as increased clinical trial efforts.

For instance, Pfizer is joining forces with the Biovac consortium to train South African healthcare professionals to produce Pfizer’s pneumococcal conjugate vaccine locally. To date, Pfizer has invested $24.5 million, with an additional $33.8 million expected over the coming years to ramp up production.

As soon as Pfizer’s workforce development regiment and full technology transfer have been completed, more than a million babies will be treated annually with Pfizer’s product through the expanded program on immunisation.

On Pfizer’s Breakthroughs That Change Patients’ Lives, they said: “At Pfizer, we apply science and our global resources to bring therapies to people that extend and significantly improve their lives. “ We strive to set the standard for quality, safety, and value in the discovery, development, and manufacture of health care products, including innovative medicines and vaccines.

“Every day, Pfizer colleagues work across developed and emerging markets to advance wellness, prevention, treatments, and cures that challenge the most feared diseases of our time. “ Consistent with our responsibility as one of the world’s premier innovative biopharmaceutical companies, we collaborate with health care providers, governments, and local communities to support and expand access to reliable, affordable health care around the world.

For more than 150 years, we have worked to make a difference for all who rely on us.”

T H I S D AY ˾ , MARCH 3, 2022

33

NEWS

Nigeria May Not Meet March COVID-19 Vaccination Target, Says Stakeholders Onyebuchi Ezigbo ÓØ ÌßÔË Nigeria’s expectation to vaccinate at least 50 per cent of her eligible population against the COVID-19 virus by the end of March this year may not be realised.

The fears were expressed by stakeholders during an assessment meeting on the progress and challenges facing COVID-19 vaccination exercise in the northern states, organised by the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) in Abuja.

As at February 12, 2022 the National Primary HealthCare Development Agency (NPHCDA) said that 16,386,339 have been vaccinated first dose in the country while 6,878,770 were vaccinated second dose.

Factors such as vaccine hesitancy, poor leadership role by some state chief executives and rising insecurity were seen as the factors limiting the progress of the vaccination exercise.

At the meeting which had commissioners of health in all the northern states of Nigeria and heads of relevant agencies in attendance, participants presented their success cards as well as x-rayed the challenges and strategies to surmount them.

The meeting was meant to share experiences on COVID-19 vaccination exercise in the states and explore ways of improving the vaccine uptake.

Speaking to THISDAY on his assessment of the vaccination exercise, the Deputy Director, Macarthur Foundation in Nigeria, one of the development partners, Dayo Olaide said whereas the campaign was proceeding well, the patronage is still very low.

He said that a lot factors were responsible for the differences in success rate recorded by the states. “From the experiences shared here by the states, there are a couple of things that you can point to that is working well.

In states where the leadership has shown commitment, we can see that just by the symbolic of the state governors, members of the cabinet and the legislature by coming out publicly to take the vaccine, has sent the right signals to the citizens and think that has made a lot of differences in these states.

“Similarly, we also found out

that having a multi stakeholder approach that is inclusive that involves traditional rulers, women organisations and members of the civil society groups, that has also enabled the vaccine drive to function well,” he said.

However, Olaide said that one thing is clear, and that is that even when the vaccine roll out is said to be proceeding well, the patronage is still very low.

According to him, the need to improve on the speed of vaccination was what the stakeholders meeting intended to achieve.

“For now, hesitancy remained a major challenge. We heard some states say that some of them have difficulties in accessing or getting enough vaccine but the significant number actually said that there is enough vaccines in their states.

The NPHCDA has been quite innovative, going round the states to mop up vaccine doses and to make them available to those states that need them.

He also noted that there has been an effective synergy between the NPHCDA and state primary healthcare boards as other ministries and agencies in the health sector. #VU UIFSF XFSF IFTJUBODZ among health workers, hesitancy among the public and some form of hesitancy among the leadership are perhaps the biggest stumbling blocks to this vaccination campaign.

On whether he thinks that March target date set by federal government for the achievement of 70 percent vaccination of eligible population can be attained, he said; “ Going by the figures that those states are rolling out, because it’s going to be a totality of figures from these states will tell us whether or not the government’s are being met.

“If we are hearing 12 per cent and 16 per cent in some states and some states recording about 4 percent, I think the gap is quite huge. We are still a long way ahead and a lot more will have to be done between now end next month, March for that high target that the government set to be realised”.

Olaide said that a lot of inefficiencies will have to be addressed, in addition to using available data to plan ahead.

The Director Disease Control in Kaduna State, Hamza Ibrahim, while giving the situation report of the vaccination exercise in the state said the campaign has gone far despite initial challenges.

He said: “ We are doing well because all the strategic machineries have been deployed, all the relevant agencies were also deployed to carry out the exercise.

“We have taken the vaccination campaign to the motor parks and religious worship centres using mobile vaccination teams. Also all the local council chairmen have taken the lead in having themselves and their families vaccinated.”

He said that so far, the state has been able to vaccinate over 492,337 with the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as at Wednesday, last week.

Zamfara State Commissioner for Health, Aliyu Abubakar said despite security challenges confronting the state, they have been able to record an impressive performance in the vaccination campaign.

He said that: “About 272,815 persons have vaccinated first dose while 72,321 persons have taken their second dose of the vaccines”.

He also said that 16,170 persons have been given booster jabs.

He further said that the state has set a target to vaccinate a total of 2,216,000 persons by the end March this year.

Abubakar attributed the high success rate recorded by the state to the examplary leadership shown by the governor of the state and other top government functionaries.

The organisers of the assessment meeting, described it as very successful, adding that it had enabled commissioners to compare notes to seek strategies to further improve on the vaccination drive.

He said that apart from regular assessment meetings, the organisation also holds training programmes for health workers within the northern states to help improve healthcare services.

He said that there has been some marked improvement on the progress in compliance to COVID-19 protocols and vaccination exercise since the collaborative engagement with states in the region.

Mental Health Groups Oppose Attempted Suicide Bill, Commend LASG Suicide Is No Solution, an anti - suicide campaign initiative and Asido Foundation, a non governmental mental health organisation have launched a campaign against attempted suicide being a crime in Nigeria saying those who attempt suicide need help rather than punishment.

Emphasising that suicide is a mental health issue, the Executive Secretary SUICIDE IS NO SOLUTION (SINS) Initiative Ngozi Andrew, on behalf of the two groups, said the victims need help.

She stated that “ attempted suicide should not be a crime.

Anybody who attempts to take his or her own life has come to the conclusion that life is no longer worth living. “ That individual is distressed with a strong need for professional mental health care, treatment, assistance and not punishment. Attempted suicide is a loud cry for help.”

The statement also opposed the new bill which was recently passed for second reading at the House of Representatives where six months community service and counselling is being proposed for Nigerian citizens who attempt suicide.

The groups emphasised

that the proposed six months community service is still a punishment for persons with underlying mental and psychological disorder.

Ngozi Andrew noted that attempted suicide is still a crime in Nigeria punishable under the Criminal Code Act, Cap. C38, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, which carries an imprisonment term of up to one year.

The groups commended the Lagos State Government for repealing the law which makes attempted suicide punishable, urging other states in Nigeria to follow suit.

FERTILITY

With Dr. Kemi AILOJE drkemi@lifelinkfertility.com www.lifelinkfertility.com +2348033083580

VAGINALYEAST INFECTION (CANDIDIASIS) PART 1

C

andidiasis is an infection caused by yeast (a type of fungus) called Candida. Candida albicans is a microscopic organism that lives on the skin uninterrupted. This organism can be found on our skin, in our mouths, in our gastrointestinal tracts (guts), the penis in men and in the vaginal canal in women.

Candidiasis that affects the mouth is also known as thrush and these appear as white patches on the tongue, throat, and other regions of the mouth.

Other signs and symptoms of thrush include soreness and difficulty swallowing. If it occurs in the vaginal area, it is called vaginal yeast infection or vaginal candidiasis. The yeast might multiply excessively when the environment within a body region favors fungal growth, producing pain and irritation. Candidiasis can cause skin problems on the external surface of the skin as well as the vagina, penis, and mouth.

Candidiasis may negatively affect the bloodstream as well as internal organs like the liver and spleen.

The skin, oral, and vaginal infections are the most common issues. Though these infections can be bothersome but they are not life threatening.

WHAT IS VAGINAL YEAST INFECTION? Vaginal yeast infection, also known as vaginal candidiasis is a common fungal infection that leads to discharge, inflammation, and severe itching in the vagina and tissues that line the vaginal entrance (vulva). A yeast infection in the vaginal canal is not a sexually transmitted infection. However, regular sexual activity may increase the risk of vaginal yeast infection. Research suggests that this infection may also be associated to oral-genital sex.

These infections are caused by candida, a fungal organism (yeast) that already exists in your body.

Candida is a type of yeast that belongs to the fungus family. When the body immune system cannot fight candida infections, it can cause a lot of problems but when this yeast is balanced with the body, there are no issues. The yeast multiplies quickly and leads to yeast infection when the immune system is disrupted.Vaginal yeast infections can be effectively treated with medications. Four or more yeast infections in a year in the same person requires treatment for a longer period of time.

CAUSES Most vaginal yeast infections are caused by the fungus ‘Candida albicans’. The vaginal environment consists of a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast, including candida. This is necessary as certain good bacteria like lactobacillus helps to prevent yeast overgrowth. When this balance is disrupted, the candida yeast overgrows and this fungal infection may penetrate deeper into

the vaginal cell walls leading to the signs and symptoms of a yeast infection.

Candida is not contagious because the yeast is already present and lives in the body. A number of factors can contribute to the overgrowth of yeast.

Most common causes of candida overgrowth are: The use of antibiotic drug to treat infections such as a urinary tract infection (UTI). In the process of treating infections such as UTI, the beneficial bacteria that maintain yeast balance in the vaginal canal are also eliminated while treating an infection.

Pregnancy causes an increase in the level of estrogen thereby increasing the risk of yeast infections as a result of fluctuated hormones.

The use of birth control or contraceptives may also cause a fluctuation in hormones. These changes in hormones disrupt the balance of candida growth in the vaginal canal, hence, increased yeast infection.

Uncontrolled diabetes breeds the growth of yeast infection because poorly controlled blood sugar leads to the presence of excess sugar in the urine.

Hence, an increased growth of candida yeasts in the vaginal environment.

An impaired immune system weakened by steroids or cancer medication may allow yeast to thrive. Candida albicans or thrush (infections of the mouth) is most common in patients who have cancer or AIDS. Obesity is one factor that promotes yeast growth.

Yeast grows in moist region and areas where skin contacts skin. People who are overweight have more folds in their skin. They also tend to sweat more, creating a damp environment for Candida albicans to thrive.

Hot weather, poor hygiene, and tight clothing are all risk factors because they promote the ideal environment for increased yeast infection.

SYMPTOMS Symptoms of a yeast infection can range from mild to severe. These includes: r 7BHJOBM QBJO BOE TPSFOFTT r 3BTIFT PO UIF WBHJOB r 8BUFSZ WBHJOBM EJTDIBSHF r " XFMM EFàOFE QBUDI PG SFE JUDIZ skin that is frequently leaking fluid. The fluid is a thick, white, clumpy substance with little or no odor. Around the rash’s edge, scabs and pus may appear. The groin, the folds of the buttocks, between the breasts, toes, or fingers, and the navel are all common places to find it. r #VSOJOH GFFMJOH EVSJOH VSJOBUJPO r 1BJO PS EJTDPNGPSU EVSJOH TFY r 4NBMM DVUT PS DSBDLT JO UIF TLJO PG UIF vulva because of dry skin in the area. r 3FEOFTT BOE TXFMMJOH PG UIF WVMWB :FBTU infections in the penis are rare, although they can cause redness, swelling, and pain at the tip of the penis TO BE CONTINUED

34

T H I S D AY ˾ , MARCH 3, 2022

NEWS

ISN Products Nigeria Rewards Customers for 2021 Performance Mary Nnah ISN Medical, a leading supplier of medical diagnostic products and services in Nigeria has rewarded its loyal customers for optimum performances in the 2021 business year with a 2022 brand new Hyundai Santa Fe, high-end refrigerators, 6.5KVA generators, microwave ovens, and stocks worth millions of naira.

At the prize presentation ceremony, which took place at the company’s headquarters in Ilupeju Lagos at the weekend during the ISN 2021 Key Customer Forum, 14 customers nationwide were rewarded in two categories- the national and the regional awards.

For national awardees, Pipette Nigeria Limited won the national highest contributor, which comes with a 2022 brand new Hyundai Santa Fe. Hychez Global Venture emerged second and won a Hisense Double Door Chest Freezer plus Microwave and some stocks, while De Pascal Surgical came third and won a Hisense 3Horse Power Standing

AC plus Microwave and some stocks from ISN. Graceland Nigeria Limited from the west region and HMedix Pharmacy from the North region were announced in the fourth and fifth position respectively and they won OLED 65 Inch LG TV, Hisense Side by Side Fridge, microwaves, and some stocks. Congratulating all the winners after the prize presentation ceremony, General Manager, Diabetes Care ISN Products Limited, Ifeyinwa Chioke said every year, the company appreciates its key partners and therefore the awards were for the business they did with them for 2021.

“We invite our customers in Q1 of each year and look at the business of the previous year. Now, we invited our top 25 contributors to the business of 2021. The people you saw here today contributed about 50 per cent of the total business turnover that we did last year,” she revealed.

Speaking on the reward schemes she said, “At ISN, we

believe that rewarding people for their hard work is the way to go. In our system, we have a reward for the sales team, as well as our customers.

“So, these customers that are winning today have contributed hugely to the brand in terms of sales and we are appreciating them for supporting the business.

“A reward scheme is like a lubricant that oils the bolt and joints of a machine. If you appreciate someone, he or she will continue to give his or her best for you.”

The Managing Director of Pipette Nigeria Limited, Mr. Ezennia Chinwuba, whose organisation won the grand prize, said he did not expect it and he is grateful to the company for finding his company worthy of the prize. Describing the 2021 business year, Chinwuba said, “2021 was a very good year for us, it was not bad because we were able to achieve our objectives. The car reward has crowned 2021 for all of us at Pipette Nigeria Limited.”

He advised organisations to

continue to show appreciation at all levels because the reward for good work is more work.

“My advice to companies is that they should try as much as they can to reward their customers no matter how small because when you reward your customers, they will put in their best.”

Other regional awardees include New Health Pharmacy- North, Everoch Global company-East and Mediscan Tech Support ltd-West emerged first and won 6.5KVA fireman generator and microwaves each.

Coming second by regions are Klen Pharmacy-north, Ultimate Divine-East, and Kunle Ara Pharmacy-West who each won side-by-side Hisense refrigerators.

For the third position on a regional basis are Glostan-North, I.T Johnson-East and MedplusWest and they all won brand-new Hisense 50-inch televisions and blenders.

Meanwhile, ISN has promised that the 2022 business year will be bigger, better, and much more rewarding.

2-years-old with Multiple Holes in Heart Urgently Needs N6M Rebecca Ejifoma Two-years old Ramadam Shedrack Mayaleke is urgently in need of N6 million for chest infection surgery after he was diagnosed with three holes in the heart.

A medical report signed by the management of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) shows that the boy is currently on anti-failure medication. It further implores Nigerians to accord him necessary assistance.

Ramadan was initially admitted at LASUTH 10 months ago, the medical report reveals.

He was centrally diagnosed with oxygen saturation values Mayaleke in room air between 77.45 per cent.

Examination of the cardiovascular systems revealed, as stated in the report, shows that a heart rate of 135bmp with a prude 3/6 pansystolic murmur loudest at the left lower sternal border.

It concludes that echocardiography was done on 6th January 2021. Ramadan is said to have three holes in the heart - Secundum ASD, right partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection, and moderate PAH. It further stated that he was presented on account of recurrent chest infections noticed from birth.

The patient’s mother, Tolani Mayaleke, bemoaned that she had been facing endless difficulties since she gave birth to Ramadan.

Meanwhile, after LASUTH told Mayaleke last November that her son was due for the operation, she turned to the public for financial help to save her son.

“I’m pleading to everyone to help me. I don’t want to lose my son. Please help me,” she lamented.

The surgery is meant to be held in Nigeria at Babcock University Teaching Hospital. For donations, you can send to Wema bank, 0253889676 Ramadan Shedrack Mayaleke.

Mismanagement, Late Budget, Deficit Factor, Others, Bane of UHC Kuni Tyessi ÓØ ÌßÔË

Immediate past president, Lagos Metropolitan Lions Club, Lion Franklin Udah; District Governor, Lion Kayode Oshinuga; and incoming president, Lion Christopher Folajimi Ajayi during the event

Lions Club Poised to Suppress Childhood Cancer in Nigeria Mary Nnah As the world marked this year’s International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) on Tuesday, February 15, concerns have been raised over the alarming rate at which the incidence of childhood cancers is growing in Nigeria, fast becoming an epidemic.

One of those concerned about the growing incidence of childhood cancers in Nigeria is the Lagos Metropolitan Lions Club, District 404-B2, Nigeria.

The club recently revealed it intends to embark on some activities that are aimed at suppressing childhood cancer while providing support and care for those affected.

This was made known on the occasion of the installation of the newly elected president of the

club, Lion (Chief) Christopher Folajimi Ajayi, and other club officers/fundraising ceremony in Lagos recently.

Ajayi lamented that although several children in developing countries like Nigeria suffer from cancer of various types, only a few of them are cured due to the high cost of treatment.

He, therefore, called all government, private organisations, and individuals to join hands in tackling this life-threatening condition in children before it gets out of hand.

Ajayi who enumerated activities lined up for his tenure to include protection of vision, fight against diabetes, support for hunger relief, revealed further that to ensure a clean and healthy environment for children, the club is also

embarking on a legacy project of 10 units lavatory facility for Jubril Martins Government Primary School, Dopemu, Agege, Lagos, to be delivered

by March 2022.

The project, incoming president of the club who took over from Lion Franklin Udah, the immediate past president, revealed further, is drafted to cost N6 million and would include a standard borehole, 10,000 liters tank, and water dispensing outlet for the good use of the pupils and teachers of the school.

Udah, who served as a chartered president of the club for the 2020/2021 lions year, noted that it has been a fulfilling service year.

“The good Lord has crowned our efforts by availing a successor worthy in every

sense of duty to wear these enormous shoes”, he added.

While congratulating the president and other officers, the District Governor, Lion Kayode Oshinuga said, “The office of the president of a club is a very important and most challenging assignment as it is the bedrock upon which other structures of the association are built.

“As you continue to grow and consolidate in the business of providing service to the communities that we serve, it is necessary to remind you of the need to remain focused on those key ingredients which make a club succeed in this business of providing services to our community, paramount among which is membership development.”

Factors mitigating the full and total spread of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) has been attributed to mismanagement, late budget, deficit factor as well as existential challenges in the current health budget. Others are access to healthcare, inadequate knowledge to rights of patients, inability of state government to provide consolidated revenue and misplaced priority among others.

This was disclosed by some panel of discussants during the inaugural Francis and Felicia Umenyi Memorial Lecture and roundtable discussion themed “Peoples’ right to quality healthcare” and with sub theme, “improving access to quality healthcare”.

Director, FCT health insurance scheme, Dr. Ahmed Danfulani, in his submission, said most of the challenges being faced in the healthcare delivery in the FCT has to do with the involvement of the informal sectors. He added that while information is power, many Nigerians do not seek to know about rights in healthcare services delivery. “Nigerians are not too bothered. There is a need to conscientise people about a right they do not know they have. People not working with the government are not accessing the ones already established? It can only be through legislation.

It should be made compulsory at state level.

“In Nigeria, smelly, small dilapidated building is synonymous to Primary Healthcare Centre. Check out what you have in other countries. Access to Basic Healthcare isn’t there. “ Everybody must be willing to ask questions. We must ask our leaders questions. Until we do that, Universal Health Coverage will continue to be a mirage in Nigeria.

Another discussant, Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, Anthony Ojukwu, said good legislation and prompt implementation will serve as one key factor towards facilitating the UHC. He added that it is a misplaced priority to think that government can settle everything, adding that health issues are not just for those in the health space as healthcare is a right and not a privilege.

“The National Health Act makes Basic Health Care free and one percent consolidated revenue is used to sponsor this.

“Many states are yet to respond to the equity funding expected to consolidate the one percent funding for health.

With good legislation and prompt implementation, the mirage of UHC will be a thing of the past.

“So far, there is no discrimination between government and non government employees, and may at the rural areas are enjoying free healthcare services.

“It is a misplaced priority to think that government can settle everything. Health issues are not just for those in the health space. Healthcare is a right and not a privilege.

“Shortage of personnel in the healthcare system. What is there is the negligence of the personal available.”

In her remarks, the Executive Director of the Foundation, Dr. Chito Umenyi Nwana, said the foundation was set up in memory of an extraordinary couple who dedicated their lives to lend a hand wherever they found a need.

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T H I S D AY ˾ , MARCH 3, 2022

NEWS

Embracing the Visually Impaired Sunday Ehigiator writes on the embracing experiences of 60 visually impaired persons who were recently hosted to a weekend treat by Victoria Dadai Foundation

L-R: Guest Preacher/Founder, Holy Ghost Ministry, Pastor Linus Iwuchukwu; Member, Nigeria Farmcraft Centre for the Blind, Isheri-Olofin, Lagos, Pastor Mgbada Moses Ikechukwu; Founder, Victoria Dadai Foundation, Hajia Victoria Dadai; and Co-Sponsor, Mr. Adelana Olabanji during the annual celebration for the partially impaired organised by the foundation

I

t was a heart-melting evening of merry and musical renditions, as the Founder, Victoria Dadai Foundation, Victoria Hajia Dadai, hosted about 60 visually impaired persons, whom she has over time been supporting and catering for their needs, to a feast of love with an embrace.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), globally, at least 2.2 billion people have a near or distance vision impairment. And in at least 1 billion, or almost half of these cases, vision impairment could have been prevented or has yet to be addressed.

The WHO identified uncorrected refractive errors and cataracts as the leading causes of vision impairment and blindness. It said the majority who suffer from vision impairment and blindness are above the age of 50 years, “however, vision loss can affect people of all ages”.

Vision impairment poses an enormous global financial burden with the annual global costs of productivity losses associated with vision impairment from uncorrected myopia and presbyopia alone estimated to be US$ 244 billion and US$ 25.4 billion.

Sadly, these 60 persons hosted by the foundation at Hajia’s Restaurant, located around Ajao Estate, off the Muritala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos State, falls within this WHO categorisations, but are however not deterred by their condition, with most of them now experts in at least a skill, including; hairdressing, bead making, shoemaking, bag making, playing of

musical instruments, to mention but a few.

In his word of admonishment, Head Pastor, Holy Ghost Ministry, Pastor Linus lwuchukwu, encouraged them to know God personally, as only him can lead them on to the right directions.

According to him, “There are some people who are physically challenged but are wasted.

But here you are. No matter what happens God will wipe your tears. It doesn’t end here.

You have to follow him consistently. You know him closely by embracing his character.”

Encouraging them to have faith in God while making use of their spiritual eyes, Pastor Iwuchukwu referenced the biblical ‘blind Bartimaeus’, a blind beggar who heard that Jesus was passing by and shouted “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me,” even without seeing Jesus, and got healed.

“The spiritual eyes are very important just like the blind Bartimaeus. This blind man met God and he was made whole. You can see that whatever happens to you, God knew about it.”

He, therefore, implored them to fully embrace God by having intimacy with Him. Speaking with THISDAY, the Founder, Mrs. Dadai, who is popularly known in her circle as ‘Mummy Blind’, due to her enormous show of love towards the visually impaired in the society, noted that she was inspired to help the visually impaired in the society following a vision she received from God in

2003, directing her to cater for the blind.

She said following the vision, she began to help the visually impaired by paying for their school fees, enrolling them in several skills acquisition, paying for their emergency needs, and hosting them annually just to show my gratitude to God almighty for sustaining the vision.

“Since 2003 when I saw this vision, I started it as a job selflessly without anybody, but I feel good about it eventually because God always shows up for me whenever I seek to help them.

“Today I am very grateful that few people now share the same vision with me, and now support me in doing this.”

She said the invaluable fulfillment and joy she feels in her heart after helping them has been her driving force for sustainability since 2003 when she began showing support to them.

According to her, “I feel good whenever I do this. There is a lot of joy in helping the needy.

Without doing this, I cannot be a happy person.

I equally help widows, physically challenged, and the less privileged, however, the feeling is different when I help visually impaired persons.

“Our eye is the mirror to the world and without this, I usually think about how the visually impaired cope with the reality around them when they don’t have eyes to see them.

Hence I have a soft spot for visually impaired persons. Let us all be their dependable eyes.”

Attendees at the occasion weren’t only treated to sumptuous meals and wines, but couldn’t keep to their seats, as they were serenaded by the

melodious voices and musical renditions from the highlife band formed by the visually impaired, who also entertained with their dancing skills.

Also speaking, the Co-sponsor of the occasion, Olabanji Adelana, said he was moved to show support for the foundation due to his passion to help physically challenged persons.

“I have a passion for them. I feel it could have been anyone. It could have been me or you in this situation today, so that informed my passion for helping the visually impaired in society.

“I desire to keep this up, and annually show my support towards this community. And the government also needs to show more concern for them. They can achieve a lot and even help grow our economy further if they are given good attention by the government and other well-meaning Nigerians.”

Expressing his gratitude to the foundation, a beneficiary, Udeme Josh, said, “I thank God for what the foundation has been doing to help us. I am very happy and grateful to Madam Victoria for always being there for us even though we aren’t related to her, may the good Lord continue to bless her beyond her and everyone who has come here to celebrate us.”

Similarly, another beneficiary, Sam Effiong, expressed gratitude to God for the benevolence he has been receiving from the foundation and likewise prayed for more of God’s blessings on the founder.

Boost for Maternal/Childcare as NDIC Donates Paediatric Unit to Ogun Hospital James Sowole ÓØ ÌÏÙÕßÞË Maternal/Child Healthcare got a boost in Ogun West Senatorial District, as the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has donated a state of the art paediatric unit to a state - owned general hospital in Saala, Ayetoro, Ogun State.

The project was facilitated by the Chairman of NDIC, Mrs Ronke Sokefun through her MRS Foundation, in honour of her late parents, Chief and Mrs. Anthony Akanbi and Cecilia Ibiyemi Idowu.

The paediatric unit is fully equiped with two infant phototherapy machines, two baby incubators, two oxygen concentrators, and two suction machines.

The donation of the facil-

ity according to findings, brought to four, the number of incubators in the government hospital in the entire Senatorial District, as two others, had earlier been installed by the state government at General Hospital, Ota. Speaking at the commissioning and handing over ceremony of the facility to the state government, the NDIC chairman also said that the facility consists of an emergency treatment room, a 10-bed admission ward, a baby ward, a special baby care treatment room for new borns, an isolation room for those with infectious and communicable diseases.

The facility, according to her, has a pharmacy, a doctor’s consulting room, chief

matron’s office, a nurses’ station, a waiting room, two-room, four-bed parents’/guardians’ accommodation, fitted with a kitchenette for parents and guardians whose children and wards are on admission.

For the smooth running of the paediatric unit, Sokefun said the facility is equipped with a backup solar powered alternative power source.

She noted that the gesture was part of the NDIC Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative to complement government’s efforts in adding value to communities and improving the welfare of the people.

Sokefun said, “Out of a desire to make an impact in my immediate environment, I chose to start small. The result

is what we see today.

“All around us, there exist gaps, especially with the provision of social amenities. The truth is government cannot do it all, no matter how hard it tries. It is for this reason that we must all be determined to support and give back.

“Why the choice of a paediatric standalone unit?

There is a saying that healthy children make a healthy nation.

We have to nurture our young and that is why this project was conceptualised.”

She urged the hospital management to put the facility to judicious use.

Governor Dapo Abiodun in his address commended NDIC and its chairman for their ingenuity and for keying into his administration’s

qualitative healthcare services.

Abiodun who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Shuaib Salisu, urged other well meaning indigenes of the state as well as organisations to emulate the gesture by adopting a primary healthcare centre, primary school and join his administration in building the future of the people together.

He said, “We need every hand on board to build the state and therefore this development today is a welcomed one.

“The paediatric unit will not only serve Ayetoro community, but also other communities around here.”

The head of the hospital, Dr. Olawale Maku lamented the deplorable condition of

the hospital and appealed to the state government to provide the hospital with a visiting paediatrician for the newly built paediatric unit to be put to good use.

He said, “The issue of maternal and child health is a big challenge in Nigeria and Africa at large. This centre is a comprehensive one and it will serve as an intervention for a lot of childhood diseases.

“This project can solve the problem of prematurity births, neonatal jaundice and other childhood diseases.

“This project will also help other neighbouring communities. Therefore, we appeal to the state government to give us a visiting paediatrician in order for this project to be put into good use.”

36

T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ ͱ˜ 2022

BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE

Autocheck CEO Identifies Auto Finance as Growth Driver for Automotive Sector Dike Onwuamaeze The Chief Executive Officer at Autochek, Mr. Etop Ikpe, has identified the promotion of easier and accessible automobile financing options as an effective strategy of enhancing the growth of the automotive sector in Nigeria and the rest of Afriica.

Ikpe made the statement last week while speaking on “Future of Automotive Financing and Opportunities for the Continent,” at the first ever auto finance summit in Lagos, where he proposed

that a multi-layered approach to automobile financing would enable the market to reach its full potential in Nigeria instead of the current practice where various stakeholders operate in silos.

Ikpe further emphasised that financing is critical for the auto ecosystem because of its capacity to alleviate transportation challenges and impact the whole value chain including dealers, workshops, SMEs and ultimately the consumer.

He also stressed the need for consumer education on how to

responsibly access credit and make the most of the financing solutions available to them, as well as other related services.

The SVP West Africa, Autochek, Mr. Mayokun Fadeyibi, highlighted that Autochek is building the infrastructure that would make car ownership more accessible and affordable to more Africans, and said that this event has brought together key stakeholders to engage in the necessary conversations to drive growth and opportunities across Africa’s automotive sector.

Qatari, Nigerian Manufacturers to Strengthen Economic Cooperation Michael Olugbode ÓØ ÌßÔË Qatari manufacturers and their Nigerian counterparts will brainstorm on ways to strengthen economic cooperation between their countries with match-making event scheduled for Lagos and Abuja in the face of increasing diplomatic ties.

The Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Nigeria Dr. Ali Ghanem Al-Hajri, made this known in

a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday, stressing that the event organized by the Qatar Development Bank, will take place between Wednesday and Thursday in Lagos.

He said the event is aimed at “bringing together leading manufacturers from Qatar with their counterparts in Nigeria for the purpose of setting the foundation for a strong economic cooperation between Qatar and Nigeria.”

He disclosed that the Lagos event would be followed by an economic forum between stakeholders from both countries on Friday in Abuja.

The statement read: “The purpose of the forum is to enable the Delegation of Qatar Management Development Bank to meet and interact with high level policy makers of the Federal Government of Nigeria as well as the leaders of the business community in Nigeria.”

Firm Set to Transform Mental Health Space in Nigeria Cloud Therapy NG is demonstrating a commitment to transform the mental health space in Nigeria by making therapy easily accessible to the average Nigerian.

The organization provides necessary support to persons battling anxiety, addiction, trauma, depression, grief and other mental health-related issues through effective psychotherapy and counselling sessions.

A WHO-AIMS report published in 2006 revealed that about 20 million Nigerians suffer from mental health issues. With the dwindling state of the economy and the COVID-19 pandemic, this number is said to have risen to about 50 million people as it is speculated that one in four Nigerians struggle with mental health issues. More shocking than these figures is that many people struggling with mental health issues in Nigeria do not

even recognize it and, even if they do, end up not seeking professional assistance. The economic landscape coupled with the Corona Virus pandemic has shed light on how useful mental health services are.

Counselling options provided

by Cloud Therapy NG are One-to-one counselling sessions done online, Group counselling sessions, Telephone counselling sessions, Instant webchat counselling sessions and Counselling by emails.

The founder of Cloud Therapy NG, F.D Aroyewun, said, “common denominators related to mental health issues are major life changes, the occurrence of unfamiliar activities in everyday life and the overwhelming weight of life’s happenings. As such, Cloud Therapy NG focuses on helping people dissect the changes they are experiencing

and walk them through a process of understanding their emotions and reactions, serving as a partner through the healing and self discovery journeys of clients and providing a reassuring voice to clients with the echo You are not alone.”

Aroyewun also notes that counsellors at Cloud Therapy NG are fully licensed, trained, experienced and accredited psychologists, marriage and family therapists, social workers, or licensed professional counsellors (LPC).

Many people with one mental health struggle or the other within Nigeria have decided to manage it independently. This can be particularly harmful because the brain commands and coordinates all functions performed within the human body. So an unsettled mind can lead other parts of the body to be unsettled too. D.O.

Coronation Merchant Bank to Host Webinar Nigeria’s leading financial institution, Coronation Merchant Bank, is set to hold the March edition of its Interactive Session themed ‘Nigeria’s Economic Landscape – a blend of optimism and uncertainty’.

The virtual event will feature expert speakers such asDr. Biodun Adedipe, Founder and Chief Consultant, Adedipe Associates; Dr. Andrew S. Nevin, Advisory Partner/Chief Economist at PwC Nigeria; Chinwe Egwim, Chief Economist at Coronation Merchant Bank and Prof. Joseph Nnanna, Chief Economist at the Development Bank of Nigeria and Speaking about the event,

Banjo Adegbohungbe, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Coronation Merchant Bank, said, “There are a number of factors, both positive and negative that are expected to influence the macroeconomic landscape in 2022. The lessons learnt on resilience as Nigeria embarked on a recovery path in 2021 will be critical in shaping the business and macroeconomic environment this year. This webinar will provide deep insights that will add value to strategic decision-making”.

Chinwe Egwim stated that: “Economies across the globe are still grappling with the economic effects from the coronavirus

pandemic which emerged in 2020.

The global economy is expected to remain in recovery mode, but the rebound will be uneven across countries. Since its last recession recorded in 2020, Nigeria has posted GDP growth consecutively for five quarters. Output levels recorded in 2021 inched closer to pre-pandemic levels. A comprehensive set of national policy responses is required to achieve sustainable growth.

At this webinar we will take a deep dive into specific economic indicators that influence the macroeconomic and business environment.

Akintayo Accepted into Forbes Business Council Africa’s most Influential Financial Coach and the CEO/MD of Gtext Global, Dr. Stephen Akintayo, has been accepted into the Forbes Business Council, the foremost growth and networking organization for successful business owners and leaders worldwide.

Akintayo was vetted and selected by a review committee

based on the depth and diversity of his experience. Criteria for acceptance include a track record of successfully impacting business growth metrics, as well as personal and professional achievements and honors.

“We are honored to welcome Dr. Stephen into the community,” said Scott Gerber, founder of

Forbes Councils, the collective that includes Forbes Business Council. “Our mission with Forbes Councils is to bring together proven leaders from every industry, creating a curated, social capital-driven network that helps every member grow professionally and make an even greater impact on the business world.

MARKET INDICATORS MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS

(MILLION NAIRA)

JANUARY 2021 Money Supply (M3)

38,779,455.43

-- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors

1,039,129.55

Money Supply (M2)

37,740,325.88

-- Quasi Money

21,779,302.69

-- Narrow Money (M1)

15,961,023.19

---- Currency Outside Banks

2,364,871.13

---- Demand Deposits

13,596,152.06

Net Foreign Assets (NFA)

7,414,275.50

Net Domestic Assets(NDA)

31,365,179.93

-- Net Domestic Credit (NDC)

42,916,586.63

---- Credit to Government (Net)

12,304,773.44

---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA

0.00

---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA)

0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS)

30,611,813.19

--Other Assets Net

3,892,112.74

Reserve Money (Base Money

13,264,585.14

--Currency in Circulation

2,831,167.19

--Banks Reserves --Special Intervention Reserves

10,433,417.96 317,234.17

˾ ÙßÜÍÏ ̋

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

˾ ÙØÏÞËÜã ÙÖÓÍã ËÞÏ ̋ ͯͱϱ

OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE ˜ ͵

The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (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).

37

T H I S D AY ˾ ˜ ͱ˜ ͰͮͰͰ

Transcorp Hotels Announce 143% Increase in Gross Profit, Shareholders to Get N717m Dividend Kayode Tokede Transcorp Hotels Plc has announced a gross profit of N16.23 billion for the year ended December 31, 2021 as against N6.67billion reported in 2020, indicating a 143 per cent increase The results released to the the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX) showed a 114 per cent growth in revenue to N21.74billion from N10.16billion

in 2020.

The hospitality company proposed a final dividend of 7 Kobo per share, translating into N717million and it is subject to appropriate withholding tax and shareholders’ approval.

The Company’s results show an impressive growth in its performance signalling its strong recovery from the impact of the COVID- 19 pandemic in 2020.

The performance also reflects the Company’s resilience and

P R I C E S MAIN BOARD

F O R DEALS

nimbleness, as it consistently leverages innovation to achieve an outstanding performance, breaking occupancy, and revenue records in 2021.

The Managing Director/ Chief Executive Officer of Transcorp Hotels, Dupe Olusola in a statement said: “We are very pleased with the incredibly strong operating performance of our businesses, as most segments improved in 2021. Our leisure demand

S E C U R I T I E S MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

remained strong throughout the year as different leisure packages introduced continue to drive occupancy.

“We believe that Transcorp Hotels Plc is well-positioned to continue to capitalise on the recovery in the hospitality industry as we work towards achieving our vision of becoming Africa’s leading hospitality brand.

“We are on launching several projects that have been in

T R A D E D

VALUE TRADED ( N )

MAIN BOARD

A S

the pipeline to further our play of being a full-service hospitality brand and diversify our portfolio,” Mrs. Olusola added. “We are excited about the opportunities to deliver continued growth in 2022, as we remain focused on strengthening our business and investing for the future.”

Chairman Transcorp Hotels, Mr. Emmanuel Nnorom in his comments said he expects the hospitality industry to continue

O F

0 2

to recover in 2022.

“As the domestic leisure, business and the Bleisure segment -- corporate travellers which also add leisure activities into their stay – continue to expand, even as international guests return, we expect the hospitality industry to continue its recovery,” Nnorom said, adding that Transcorp Hotels Plc is in an advantageous position to drive the recovery of the industry in Nigeria.

/ 0 3 / 2 0 2 2 DEALS

MARKET PRICE

QUANTITY TRADED

VALUE TRADED ( N)

38

THURSDAY, ͻ˜ ͺ͸ͺͺ ˾ T H I S D AY

Thursday, March 3, 2022

dŚŝƐĚĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ϰϬ /ŶĚĞdž ŝƉƉĞĚ ϲϭďƉƐ dŚŝƐĚĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ϰϬ /ŶĚĞdž ĨĞůů ďLJ ϭϰďƉƐ dŚĞ dŚŝƐĚĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ϰϬ /ŶĚĞdž ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ ďLJ ϭϰďƉƐ ƚŽ ƐĞƩůĞ dŚĞ dŚŝƐĚĂLJ ĨƌŝŶǀĞƐƚ ϰϬ ĨĞůů ϲϭďƉƐ ƚŽ Ϯ͕ϬϯϬ͘ϭϵ

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 INDEX

Ăƚ ϭ͕ϲϳϰ͘ϴϵ ƉŽŝŶƚƐ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ƐĞůůͲƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞ ŽŶ E/d, ;ͲϬ͘ϲйͿ͕ ŝŶĚĞdž ƉŽŝŶƚƐ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ƐĞůůͲƉƌĞƐƐƵƌĞ ŽŶ 'd K ;Ͳ t W K ;Ͳϭ͘ϯйͿ͕ ĂŶĚ h ;ͲϬ͘ϳйͿ͘ dŚĞƐĞ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĐƵŵƵůĂͲ

ϭ͘ϭйͿ͕ E/d, ;ͲϬ͘ϮйͿ͕ ĂŶĚ & E, ;Ͳϯ͘ϱйͿ͘ ƵŵƵͲ

Fundamental Performance Metrics for THISDAY AFRINVEST 40 Index

ƟǀĞůLJ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ ĨŽƌ ϭϯ͘Ϯй͘

ůĂƟǀĞůLJ͕ ƚŚĞƐĞ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ ĨŽƌ ϭϱ͘ϰй ŽĨ ƚŚĞ

Current Price

Ticker

ŝŶĚĞdž͘ ^/ ƵƉ ϭϭďƉƐ ĂƐ E' D 'ĂŝŶƐ ϯ͘ϯй

THISDAY AFRINVEST 40

WƌĞǀŝŽƵƐ ĚĂLJ͕ ƉƌŝĐĞ ƵƉƟĐŬ ŝŶ ,KEz&>KhZ DĂƌŬĞƚ ĂĐŬͲƉĞĚĂů 'ĂŝŶƐ͘​͘​͘ ^/ ƐŚĞĚƐ Ϭ͘ϯй ;нϵ͘ϴйͿ͕ E' D ;нϯ͘ϯйͿ͕ ĂŶĚ & E, ;нϬ͘ϳйͿ ďŽůͲ

5 Zenith Bank PLC 6 Dangote Cement PLC 7 Nestle Nigeria PLC

ƐƚĞƌĞĚ ƉŽƐŝƟǀĞ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ůŽĐĂů ďŽƵƌƐĞ ĂƐ ƚŚĞ ůůͲ

ŵĞƐƟĐ ďŽƵƌƐĞ ƚŽŽŬ Ă ďƌĞĂƚŚĞƌ LJĞƐƚĞƌĚĂLJ ĂƐ t WͲ ŝŶĚĞdž

ƌŽƐĞ

1,260.00

3 BUA Cement Plc 4 Guaranty Trust Holding Co PLC

ŌĞƌ ĨŽƵƌ ĐŽŶƐĞĐƵƟǀĞ ƉŽƐŝƟǀĞ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶƐ͕ ƚŚĞ ĚŽͲ ^ŚĂƌĞ

2030.19

1 Airtel Africa PLC 2 MTN Nigeria Communications PLC

ďLJ

Price Price Previous Change Current Change Price Index to Weighting YTD Change Date

-0.61% 0.0%

ROE

9.5% 103.0% 38.1%

31.9%

15.0%

ROA

P/E

3.5%

5.3x

31.9%

Divindend Earnings Yield Yield

P/BV

0.8x

5.7%

ot Applicable

1.5%

17.0%

5.1%

7.2%

203.00

0.0%

8.0%

3.0%

3.0%

134.7%

14.1%

13.8x

21.3x

70.75

0.0%

6.8%

5.5%

5.5%

19.1%

11.2%

34.0x

6.4x

26.65

-1.1%

6.3%

2.5%

2.5%

24.8%

3.9%

4.0x

1.0x

11.3%

24.8%

2.9%

26.95

-0.2%

6.0%

7.2%

7.2%

20.4%

2.7%

3.5x

0.7x

11.5%

28.9%

273.50

0.0%

4.4%

6.4%

6.4%

40.4%

16.7%

13.6x

5.3x

7.3%

7.4%

1,435.00

0.0%

3.1%

-7.8%

-7.8%

106.8%

15.6%

27.8x

32.8x

3.6%

3.6%

-3.5%

3.1%

-2.6%

-2.6%

8.4%

0.8%

6.5x

0.5x

4.0%

15.3%

K ;Ͳϳ͘ϳйͿ͕ E'^h' Z ;Ͳϳ͘ϳйͿ͕ ĂŶĚ /Ed Z t ϭϭďƉƐ ƚŽ ϯϵ͕ϱϱϬ͘ϯϲ ƉŽŝŶƚƐ͘ ŽŶƐĞƋƵĞŶƚůLJ͕ zd ůŽƐƐ ŝŵͲ

8 FBN Holdings Plc 9 Lafarge Africa PLC

11.10 24.00

-7.7%

3.1%

0.2%

0.2%

11.6%

8.4%

9.0x

1.0x

8.2%

11.1%

;Ͳϵ͘ϳйͿ ƉƵůůĞĚ ƚŚĞ ŝŶĚĞdž ůŽǁĞƌ͘ ŽŶƐĞƋƵĞŶƚůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ ƉƌŽǀĞĚ ƚŽ Ͳϭ͘ϴй ǁŚŝůĞ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝƐĂƟŽŶ ƌŽƐĞ ďLJ

10 Access Bank PLC 11 United Bank for Africa PLC

10.20

-1.9%

2.8%

9.7%

9.7%

17.0%

1.4%

2.9x

0.5x

8.3%

35.0%

8.40

-1.8%

2.1%

4.3%

4.3%

19.5%

1.8%

2.1x

0.4x

6.5%

47.4%

േϮϯ͘ϰďŶ ƚŽ േϮϬ͘ϲƚŶ͘ dƌĂĚŝŶŐ ĂĐƟǀŝƚLJ ǁĂƐ ŵŝdžĞĚ ĂƐ ǀŽůƵŵĞ E'y ůůͲ^ŚĂƌĞ /ŶĚĞdž ĂŶĚ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ĐĂƉŝƚĂůŝƐĂƟŽŶ ĨĞůů

12 Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC 13 Nigerian Brew eries PLC

35.00

0.0%

1.5%

-2.8%

-2.8%

15.1%

2.1%

7.9x

1.2x

11.7%

12.7% 3.3%

ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ ďLJ Ϯϭ͘ϲй ƚŽ ϭϭϬ͘ϴŵ ƵŶŝƚƐ ǁŚŝůĞ ǀĂůƵĞ

14 SEPLAT Energy PLC 15 Ecobank Transnational Inc

Ϭ͘ϯй ĂŶĚ േϲϱ͘ϳďŶ ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ƚŽ ϰϳ͕ϯϲϬ͘ϳϵ

ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƌŽƐĞ ďLJ ϴϴ͘ϱй ƚŽ േϯ͘ϭďŶ͘ dŚĞ ŵŽƐƚ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ďLJ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ǁĞƌĞ dZ E^ KZW ;ϭϭ͘ϵŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ͕ & E, ;ϭϭ͘ϭŵ

ϭϬ͘ϵй͘ dƌĂĚŝŶŐ ĂĐƟǀŝƚLJ ĨĂůƚĞƌĞĚ ĂƐ ǀŽůƵŵĞ ĂŶĚ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ͕ ĂŶĚ K E K ;ϳ͘ϯŵ ƵŶŝƚƐͿ ǁŚŝůĞ E ^d> ;േϮ͘ϮďŶͿ͕

-4.0%

-4.0%

7.6%

2.7%

30.1x

2.2x

3.3%

2.4%

59.1%

59.1%

3.4%

1.9%

10.3x

0.9x

4.0%

11.05

-3.5%

1.6%

27.0%

27.0%

22 FCMB Group Plc 23 United Capital PLC

ƟǀĞůLJ ƚŽ ϮϴϬ͘Ϭŵ ƵŶŝƚƐ ĂŶĚ േϰ͘ϮďŶ͘

24 Guinness Nigeria PLC 25 Transnational Corp of Nigeria

ĞĂƌŝƐŚ ^ĞĐƚŽƌ WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ

DŝdžĞĚ ^ĞĐƚŽƌ WĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ

26 NEM Insurance PLC 27 Presco PLC

ĐƌŽƐƐ ƐĞĐƚŽƌƐ ƵŶĚĞƌ ŽƵƌ ĐŽǀĞƌĂŐĞ͕ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ǁĂƐ

ĐƌŽƐƐ ŽƵƌ ĐŽǀĞƌĂŐĞ ƐĞĐƚŽƌƐ͕ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ ǁĂƐ

ďĞĂƌŝƐŚ ĂƐ ϰ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ůŽƐƚ͕ ϭ ŝŶĚĞdž ŐĂŝŶĞĚ ǁŚŝůĞ ƚŚĞ &ZͲ/ d

ƵŶĞǀĞŶ ĂƐ ϯ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ůŽƐƚ͕ Ϯ ŐĂŝŶĞĚ ǁŚŝůĞ ƚŚĞ &ZͲ ŝŶĚĞdž ƌĞŵĂŝŶĞĚ ŇĂƚ͘ dŽƉƉŝŶŐ ƚŚĞ ůĂŐŐĂƌĚƐ ĂƌĞ ƚŚĞ ŽŶƐƵŵͲ Ğƌ 'ŽŽĚƐ ĂŶĚ /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ͕ ĚŽǁŶ ϰ͘ϲй ĂŶĚ / d ĐůŽƐĞĚ ŇĂƚ͘ dŚĞ ĂŶŬŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ŽŶƐƵŵĞƌ 'ŽŽĚƐ ϭ͘Ϯй ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ďĂĐŬ ŽĨ ƉƌŽĮƚͲƚĂŬŝŶŐ ŝŶ E ^d> ;Ͳ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ĚŝƉƉĞĚ ϭ͘ϯй ĂƉŝĞĐĞ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ƐĞůůͲŽīƐ ŝŶ d/ ;Ͳϯ͘ϱйͿ͕

1.4%

9.3%

19 Fidelity Bank PLC 20 AXA Mansard Insurance PLC 21 Dangote Sugar Refinery PLC

ǀĂůƵĞ ƚƌĂĚĞĚ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ Ϯϰ͘ϱй ĂŶĚ ϰϳ͘Ϭй ƌĞƐƉĞĐͲ E' D ;േϭϰϱ͘ϬŵͿ͕ ĂŶĚ 'd K ;േϭϯϰ͘ϴŵͿ ůĞĚ ďLJ ǀĂůƵĞ͘

hE/> s Z

0.0%

16 International Brew eries PLC 17 Okomu Oil Palm PLC 18 Flour Mills of Nigeria PLC

ƉŽŝŶƚƐ ĂŶĚ േϮϱ͘ϱƚŶ ǁŚŝůĞ zd ƌĞƚƵƌŶ ƉĂƌĞĚ ƚŽ

ϵ͘ϭйͿ͕

48.00 1,034.00

>/E< ^^hZ

;Ͳϲ͘ϰйͿ͕

;Ͳϯ͘ϱйͿ͕ ^^ ;Ͳϭ͘ϵйͿ͕ E'^h' Z ;Ͳϳ͘ϳйͿ͕

ĂŶĚ D E^ Z ;ͲϮ͘ϮйͿ͘ ^ŝŵŝůĂƌůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ Kŝů Θ 'ĂƐ ĂŶĚ ĂŶŬͲ

ĂŶĚ /Ed Z t ;Ͳϵ͘ϳйͿ͘ ůƐŽ͕ ƉƌŝĐĞ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ŝŶ t WͲ

ŝŶŐ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ĨĞůů ďLJ Ϭ͘Ϯй ĂŶĚ ϮďƉƐ ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ĚƵĞ ƚŽ ƐĞůůͲ

K ;Ͳϳ͘ϳйͿ ĂŶĚ hd/y ;Ͳϱ͘ϰйͿ ĚƌĂŐŐĞĚ ƚŚĞ /ŶĚƵƐͲ ŽīƐ ŝŶ K E K ;ͲϬ͘ϴйͿ͕ E/d, ;ͲϬ͘ϮйͿ͕ ĂŶĚ 'd K ;ͲϬ͘ϮйͿ͘

ƟŽŶ ŝŶ E' D ;нϯ͘ϯйͿ͘

ϱ͘ϭй ĂŶĚ ϭ͘Ϭй ƌĞƐƉĞĐƟǀĞůLJ ŽŶ ĂĐĐŽƵŶƚ ŽĨ ďƵLJŝŶŐ

ŝŶƚĞƌĞƐƚ ŝŶ ^ W> d ;нϵ͘ϯйͿ͕ // K ;нϮ͘ϵйͿ͕ ĂŶĚ /ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ^ĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ^ƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶƐ

>/E< ^^hZ ;нϮ͘ϬйͿ͘

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌƐ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ͕ ĂƐ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ďLJ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ďƌĞĂĚƚŚ ;ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞͬĚĞĐůŝŶĞ ƌĂƟŽͿ͕ ƐƚƌĞŶŐƚŚĞŶĞĚ͕ ƐĞƩůŝŶŐ Ăƚ ϭ͘ϲdž

KƵƚůŽŽŬ

ĨƌŽŵ ϭ͘ϯdž ƌĞĐŽƌĚĞĚ ŝŶ ƚŚĞ ůĂƐƚ ƚƌĂĚŝŶŐ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶ ĂƐ Ϯϰ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ

/ŶǀĞƐƚŽƌ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ͕ ĂƐ ŵĞĂƐƵƌĞĚ ďLJ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ

ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ ǁŚŝůĞ ϭϱ ƐƚŽĐŬƐ ĚĞĐůŝŶĞĚ͘ DZ^ ;нϵ͘ϵйͿ͕ D zͲ

^dK < ;Ͳϰ͘ϴйͿ ůĞĚ ůŽƐĞƌƐ͘ WƌĞǀŝŽƵƐ ĚĂLJ͕ ǁĞ ĞdžƉĞĐƚ ƚŚĞ /Ŷ ƚŚĞ ƉĞŶƵůƟŵĂƚĞ ƚƌĂĚŝŶŐ ƐĞƐƐŝŽŶ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ ǁĞĞŬ͕ ŵĂƌŬĞƚ ƐĞŶƟŵĞŶƚ ƚŽ ƌĞŵĂŝŶ ŵŝdžĞĚ͕ ĂƐ ĞĂƌŶŝŶŐƐ ƐĞĂƐŽŶ

ǁĞ ĞdžƉĞĐƚ ďĂƌŐĂŝŶ ŚƵŶƟŶŐ ƚŽ ůŝŌ ƉĞƌĨŽƌŵĂŶĐĞ͘ ŐƌĂĚƵĂůůLJ ǁŝŶĚƐ ƵƉ͘

1.1%

3.0%

3.0%

-10.3%

-3.9%

0.0%

1.0%

-4.9%

-4.9%

36.5%

23.3%

9.2x

3.0x

32.00

0.0%

1.0%

12.9%

12.9%

15.9%

4.5%

4.9x

0.7x

1.0x

0.7%

11.8%

11.8%

13.3%

1.3%

2.2x

0.3x

7.7%

46.2%

0.0%

0.6%

1.7%

1.7%

9.3%

3.0%

7.3x

0.7x

9.3%

13.8%

15.60

-7.7%

0.4%

-10.3%

-10.3%

15.3%

6.3%

10.2x

9.8%

3.46

8.1%

0.5%

15.7%

15.7%

10.3%

1.1%

1.5x

6.4%

0.3x

4.5%

2.9x

11.2%

13.10

-3.7%

0.5%

32.3%

32.3%

68.00

0.0%

0.6%

74.4%

74.4%

13.3%

6.0%

14.3x

1.8x

0.7%

7.0%

1.10

-2.7%

0.4%

14.6%

14.6%

11.1%

2.3%

5.8x

0.6x

0.9%

17.1%

4.14

8.4%

0.3%

-8.0%

-8.0%

35.6%

18.5%

6.5x

1.1x

4.5%

15.5%

104.00

0.0%

0.3%

18.5%

18.5%

2.2x

1.0% 2.9%

7.4%

1.5%

18.6%

0.3%

9.1%

9.1%

21.3%

6.9%

13.5x

2.7x

1.4%

1.4%

7.2%

1.1%

394.4x

0.7x

30 TotalEnergies Marketing Nigeri 31 Custodian and Allied Insurance

264.90

0.0%

0.3%

19.4%

19.4%

48.0%

9.5%

5.4x

2.2x

38 Sterling Bank PLC 39 Notore Chemical Industries Ltd 40 Transcorp Hotels Plc

0.3%

7.20

0.0%

0.2%

-8.9%

-8.9%

19.5%

5.5%

4.2x

0.8x

7.6%

23.6%

21.30

-4.5%

0.2%

-5.3%

-5.3%

38.7%

16.0%

5.5x

2.0x

6.9%

18.3%

14.30

0.7%

0.2%

-1.4%

-1.4%

7.8%

4.9%

31.7x

1.2x

26.50

0.0%

0.2%

18.6%

18.6%

18.9%

2.4%

4.0x

0.8x

1.5%

25.0%

4.0%

6.30

0.0%

0.1%

6.8%

6.8%

7.1%

0.8%

7.1x

0.7x

4.80

-1.0%

0.0%

8.6%

8.6%

14.5%

2.6%

2.1x

0.3x

3.2%

0.95

0.0%

0.1%

31.9%

31.9%

14.1%

0.8%

4.1x

0.6x

4.2%

24.2%

-2.5%

0.1%

2.6%

2.6%

9.4%

0.9%

2.0x

0.3x

3.2%

49.4%

62.50

0.0%

0.1%

0.0%

0.0%

-28.3%

-6.1%

5.38

0.0%

0.0%

0.0%

0.0%

2.4x

-13.8%

0.9x

13.0%

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V o l u m e

P ric e

P ric e C hg %

T ic k er

Vo lum e

P ric e C hg %

1.65

10.0%

T R A N SC OR P

29.2

-2.7%

1034.00

9.3%

UC A P

28.3

-3.7%

M ULT IVER SE

0.24

9.1%

A C C ESS

17.7

-1.9%

N EM

4.14

8.4%

Z EN IT H B A N K

17.5

-0.2%

R OYA LEX SEP LA T

FCM B

3.46

8.1%

FCM B

17.4

8.1%

GLA XOSM IT H

6.40

5.8%

N GXGR OUP

16.6

-8.7%

SOVR EN IN S

0.24

4.3%

J A IZ B A N K

13.0

-4.1%

A IIC O

0.71

2.9%

UB A

12.9

-1.8%

PZ

7.20

2.9%

LIN KA SSUR E

0.52

2.0%

SOVR EN IN S

8.5

4.3%

F ID ELIT YB K

7.0

-5.0%

T o p 10 T r a d e s b y V a l u e

T o p 10 L o s e r s T ic k er N IGER IN S IN T B R EW

P ric e 0.27

P ric e C hg % -10.0%

5.10

-9.7%

R T B R ISC OE

0.70

-9.1%

N GXGR OUP

23.10

-8.7%

C OR N ER ST

0.64

-8.6%

D A N GSUGA R

15.60

-7.7%

24.00

-7.7%

LEA R N A F R C A

2.19

-6.8%

C UT IX

2.30

-5.3%

F ID ELIT YB K

2.85

Brokerage

-5.0%

T ic k er

Value

P ric e C hg %

SEP LA T

826.5

9.3%

A IR T ELA F R I

491.7

0.0%

Z EN IT H B A N K

470.7

-0.2%

N GXGR OUP

388.6

-8.7%

UC A P

374.2

-3.7% -1.9%

A C C ESS

181.5

GT C O

146.0

-1.1%

ST A N B IC

123.3

0.0%

WA P C O

110.3

-7.7%

UB A

109.3

-1.8%

Asset Management

Investment Research

Adedoyin Allen | aallen@afrinvest.com Robert Omotunde | romotunde@afrinvest.com Abiodun Keripe | AKeripe@afrinvest.com Taiwo Ogundipe | togundipe@afrinvest.com

14.1% 48.4%

1.55

T o p 10 G a in e r s T ic k er

20.4%

-5.0%

0.2%

36 Oando PLC 37 Wema Bank PLC

10.9% 5.2%

2.85

0.0%

34 Julius Berger Nigeria PLC 35 Union Bank of Nigeria PLC

-11.2%

2.36

2.9%

WA P C O

Afrinvest West Africa Limited

-9.7%

0.71

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5.10 135.00

14.40

32 Vitafoam Nigeria PLC 33 Unilever Nigeria PLC

9.7% 39.3%

28 NASCON Allied Industries PLC 29 AIICO Insurance PLC

ŽŶǀĞƌƐĞůLJ͕ ƚŚĞ /ŶĚƵƐƚƌŝĂů 'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ǁĂƐ ƚŚĞ ůŽŶĞ ŐĂŝŶͲ ƚƌŝĂů 'ŽŽĚƐ ŝŶĚĞdž ůŽǁĞƌ ďLJ Ϭ͘ϱй͘ KŶ ƚŚĞ ŽƚŚĞƌ Ğƌ͕ ƵƉ ϭ͘ϴй ĚƌŝǀĞŶ ďLJ ƉƌŝĐĞ ĂƉƉƌĞĐŝĂͲ ŚĂŶĚ͕ ƚŚĞ Kŝů Θ 'ĂƐ ĂŶĚ /ŶƐƵƌĂŶĐĞ ŝŶĚŝĐĞƐ ƌŽƐĞ

2.5x

Christopher Omoh | comoh@afrinvest.com

Damilare Asimiyu| dasimiyu@afrinvest.com

THURSDAY MARCH 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

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THURSDAY MARCH 3, 2022 •T H I S D AY 41

THURSDAY MARCH 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

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THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022 ˾ T H I S D AY

2023 CAMPAIGN WATCH SAMUEL AJAYI

E-mail: yemielegance@gmail.com

Mobile: 08033083367

El-Rufai greeting President Buhari (right)

With Electoral Act Signed, Notice of Elections Released…

P

resident Muhammadu Buhari, last Friday, signed the amended Electoral Bill into law, a development that set the tone for the hope of credible elections in 2023. This was after he had twice turned down the same bill on two different grounds, to which corrections were eventually effected.

A few days after, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), also released the notice of elections and schedule of activities, which equally might have sculpted the stage for what shape the campaigns would assume as well as preparations by individuals and the political parties ahead of 2023 polls.

Thus, from the political parties to the individuals itching to run for different offices, events have begun to pick up – slow and steady – with everyone recalibrating their current settings to suit expectations, even though the INEC, through its schedule of activities, would not officially declare the space open for campaigns until September 2022.

Therefore, lying before the political parties now are either zonal congresses, national conventions or primary elections to elect candidates for the forthcoming elections and they are already beginning to live up to the challenge.

These, nonetheless, personal activities of some individuals have continued unhindered and they are captured below as some of the events that dotted the

political environment in the week that just ended.

ATIKU AND HIS PRESIDENTIAL TICKET DEBATE Since it appears visiting top monarchs and former presidents is now part of the campaign process, a former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, was not to be left out as he visited former President Olusegun Obasanjo in Otta home last week. However, it was not the visit that has generated headline news but what the perennial presidential contender said, when accosted by reporters after the meeting.

When asked if he was sure of picking the presidential ticket of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku had this to say: “Have I ever failed to win the ticket?

“I’ve never desired to run even for this governorship.

It was President Buhari, who literally forced me to run. He insisted that some of us run for governorship just in case he did not get elected again.”

I’m confident of picking it.” He was not done. When reminded that age might not be on his side again (he will be 76 in November) and that he should leave the stage for younger Nigerians to try their luck with the presidency, he said: “Let the youth compete now. It is democracy. Let them compete for it.”

If Atiku thought his words would just go like that, he was mistaken.

Governor of Rivers State and one of the major pillars of the party, Nyesom Wike, pointedly accused Atiku of taking the party’s delegates for granted.

Speaking through his Special Assistant on Media, Kelvin Ebiri, Wike said: “I didn’t expect him, frankly speaking, to say that he will always take the ticket of the party.

That is going too far and taking the delegates for granted. People should watch, there will be a shock as far as PDP convention is concerned.

People should watch what is going to happen. People like to underrate so many persons and it is not good in politics.”

If Wike was playing politics as he too is never a neutral in the power game within the PDP, Atiku also came under fire from his former aide, Kassim Afegbua, who served as his campaign spokesman the last time he tried his luck at the ballot. Afegbua said his former boss should not be trusted with the PDP presidential ticket for

the 2023 general election.

Afegbua seemed to be still bitter with the way the former vice-president allegedly abandoned his foot soldiers after the 2019 elections and went to Dubai. He (Afegbua) said the party could not afford the same mistake again.

Beyond this, however, is the fact that Atiku might have made the statement out of sheer arrogance or selective amnesia, the reason being that only once had he succeeded in picking the PDP ticket in about four trials. In 2007, he was frozen out of the party by same Obasanjo in whose house he made the slip. He had to contest on the platform of the then Action Congress, AC. In 2011, he lost the ticket to former President Goodluck Jonathan who went ahead to win the election. In 2015, when he sensed he could not pick the ticket, he moved the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), and still lost the ticket to President Mohammadu Buhari. The only time Atiku has ever picked the PDP ticket was 2019.

Therefore, if he said he had always picked the ticket, perhaps, he might have forgotten his own political history.

HOW FAR CAN KWANKWASO AND HIS NEW TRAVELERS GO? A former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, recently launched a new political movement. Some are saying he was actually launching a new political party. Even if this was not the case, the

T H I S D AY ˾ THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022

43

2023 CAMPAIGN WATCH

Staying Close With 2023

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo (left) endorsing Atiku Abubakar

Kwankwaso at the launch of a new political party ‘The Third Force’ in Abuja… recently

game is becoming interesting.

The event, which held last Tuesday at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, added another object of conversation to the 2023 debate by launching The Third Force.

He was joined by his political associates as well as former political adversaries.

And there were also those he described as “progressives” and that the aim of the exercise was to send the ruling APC packing in 2023.

The roll call at the event said so much and it further fueled the rumour that Kwankwaso might be up to something more than launching any movement. The Third Force was actually an off-shoot of The National Movement, which was set up

by Kwankwaso to realise his presidential ambition. Before this, perhaps, to let people know that he was done with the two dominant parties – APC and PDP – he had declared that the two parties had

nothing to offer Nigerians again.

With the slogan, ‘Save Nigeria, Rescue the Nation’, Kwankwaso seemed to be bidding goodbye to his current party, PDP, but it might be coming a bit too late to make any impact and truly shake both the APC and the PDP. Can he upstage the APC? Can he rattle the PDP? Perhaps, he can since he has already ‘poached’ from both the APC and the PDP to attend the inauguration of the Third Force. But that seems to be as far as he could go.

A political analyst told THISDAY shortly after the Abuja event that if Kwankwaso was planning a new party, it was late in time to make any meaningful impact against 2023.

“I thing he might be trying to float a new party but if that was his intention, then, it is late already to have any

strong effect on 2023 permutations.

You have to get the party registered and then start mobilisation for new members. Whatever are his plans, I doubt if he has 2023 in mind.”

Though he promised a ‘Marshall Plan’ to tackle corruption and rescue Nigeria from its socio-economic challenges, he seemed to be running same rhetoric common with politicians.

It remains to be seen how far he can go with the new political adventure.

EL-RUFAI’S CONSISTENT ‘ZERO AMBITION’ TALE The Governor of Kaduna State and former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Malam Nasir El-Rufai, has surely learnt the political ropes since he joined the fray and contested for the governorship of his home state.

Initially, when he first served under

former President Olusegun Obasanjo, he portrayed himself as an apolitical public official, who was only interested in the success of the administration he was serving under.

But he made the headlines in 2003, when he said senators, who were to screen him after his ministerial nomination actually asked for bribe if he was to have a smooth ride during the screening. It generated a lot of heat then and fast-forward to 19 years later, El-Rufai seems to be calmer and more calculative. It is debatable if the 2003 ministerial nomination were to happen today, he would make the allegations he made then.

Fielding questions from State House correspondents recently in Abuja and was asked about 2023, El-Rufai said he had no ambition whatsoever “I have zero ambition. I just want to finish this job, get on with my private life, write another book and make tonnes of money. The largest amount of money I ever got in my life was from writing the book, ‘Accidental Public Servant’. I have no ambition; I’ve never had any ambition. And if I die today, I am quite accomplished and happy, because I never in my life, based on my humble background, ever thought I would even enter this building.”

Not done, he added: “God has been very kind to me. And my outings in the public service have all been satisfactory?

Why push my luck and go for a job with a 90 per cent chance of failure? So, I’m not an ambitious person. I’m just a person that gets things done when given the opportunity.

“I’ve never desired to run even for this governorship. It was President Buhari, who literally forced me to run. He insisted that some of us run for governorship just in case he did not get elected again. He felt that we needed some ‘strong governance’.

Those were the words he used. So, I have no aspirations.”

But reliable sources told THISDAY that, perhaps, El-Rufai was giving out less than he hadin mind. While the debate is going on as to whether the ruling APC had zoned its presidential ticket to the South, it would be no brainer if the former minister accepted to either become the candidate of the party (if the north retained it) or running mate to any southern candidate.

44

IMAGES

T H I S D AY ˾ DAY ͱ˜ 2022

Photo Editor Abiodun Ajala Email abiodun.ajala@thisdaylive.com

Comptroller of Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Lagos State Command, Mani D. Bagiwa (right), presenting a memorabilia to the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, during the comptroller’s visit to the palace in Lagos…recently

Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Airtel Nigeria, Surendran Chemmenkotil, presenting a gift to the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management (ECSM) of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Mr. Adeleke Adewolu, during his courtesy visit to the Airtel Networks Head Office, Lagos…recently

L-R: Consumer Services Manager, Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC), Oluwole Jayeoba; Nigeria Audit Manager, NBC, Wole Olaitan; representative of Mental and Environmental Development Initiative for Children (MEDIC) in Nigeria, Omolara Olaku; Corporate Affairs and Community Partnerships Manager, NBC, Jerome Oyebanji; and Nigeria COBC and Compliance Manager, NBC, Richard Ebuetse, during the handover ceremony of recycling equipment donated by NBC to MEDIC as part of the Coca-Cola Hellenic’s CAD CSR initiative in Lagos...recently

The Managing Director, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Chief George Moghalu (sitting), being presented with a certificate as the Fiwajoye of Yorubaland by Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu, while staff of NIWA and friends look on during a chieftaincy ceremony held at the palace of the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, in Oyo State...recently

L-R: Vice President, Babcock University Students’ Association (BUSA), Mr. Udeogu Emmanuel; Afro-Pop artist, Mr. Adelabu Alexander (aka Magixx); President, BUSA, Mr. Umeh Christian; singer, Mr. Daniel Benson (aka BNXN); BUSA Sponsor, Dr. Seun Ebiesuwa; and BUSA Director of Socials, Mr. Yinka-Hassan Fewa, during the visit of the artists to Babcock University in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State…recently

L-R: Clergyman, Pastor Kingsley Oparah; Couple, Mr. Emmanuel Asa and his wife, Mrs. Angela Nwaozuru Asa; and wife of the clergyman, Mrs. Glory Oparah, at the couple’s wedding ceremony in Lagos…recently

L-R: Olofa of Offa, Ajagungbade I, Oba Mufutau Muhammed Gbadamosi; Alapomu of Apomu, Oba Kayode Adenekan Afolabi; representative of Osun State governor/Secretary of State Government (SSG), Mr. Wole Oyebanji; wife of Alapomu of Apomu, Olori Janet Afolabi; Publisher, MayFive Media, Soji Akinrinade; and Managing Editor, THISDAY Newspaper, Bolaji Adebiyi, during the presentation of a book titled: ‘The Master Who Trained Me’, authored by Olori Afolabi, to mark the second coronation anniversary of Alapomu of Apomu, Oba Afolabi, in Apomu, Osun State…recently PHOTO: ABIODUN AJALA

45

THURSDAY, MARCH 3, 2022 ˾ T H I S D AY

FOREIGN DESK

COMPILED BY BAYO AKINLOYE

Biden: Putin ‘Miscalculated’ on Ukraine

In his first State of the Union address Tuesday night, US President Joe Biden touted his success in uniting much of the world against Russian President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.

Biden said Ukraine is on the front line of the global battle between democracies and autocracies, and that democracy will prevail.

With Putin ratcheting up attacks on major Ukrainian cities such as Kharkiv and Kyiv, Biden stood in the House chamber and told Americans the free world is united against Putin’s aggression.

“The free world is holding him accountable,” Biden said. “Along with 27 members of the European Union, including France, Germany, Italy, as well as countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and many others, even Switzerland are inflicting pain on Russia and supporting the people of Ukraine. Putin is now isolated from the world more than he has ever been.”

Biden said Putin badly miscalculated when he launched a full-scale invasion of his neighbour, meeting “a wall of strength he never anticipated or imagined” instead of a world that would “roll over.”

Interpol Issues Red Notices for Gupta Brothers Wanted in South Africa South Africa said this week the International Criminal Police Organisation, Interpol, has requested countries seek out and arrest Rajesh and Atul Gupta, two brothers and businessmen who allegedly bribed top officials, including former president Jacob Zuma, to gain lucrative government contracts.

South African anti-corruption activists have accused the Guptas of “state capture,” a term meant to describe the brothers’ strong influence over former president Zuma and members of his Cabinet — influence that allegedly extended to contracts, policy and personnel choices.

While there are many allegations against the Guptas, the red notices — requests to member nations to arrest — were issued for a case involving a relatively small $1.5 million pertaining to procurement fraud.

South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority requested the red notices last year, but Rajesh and Atul Guptas’ lawyers objected. The application had to be reviewed by Interpol to make sure, among other things, that there was no political bias.

Deadly Bomb Hits Pakistan Police Convoy Authorities in southwestern Pakistan said Wednesday a roadside bomb explosion had killed at least three people, including a senior officer, and wounded 24 others.

Initial police reports found the bomb was hidden in a motorbike, parked along a main road, and targeted a police convoy in central Quetta, the capital of Baluchistan province.

A hospital spokesman, Waseem Baig, said several of the wounded victims were in “critical condition,” and he feared the death toll could increase. At least 10 policemen were among the injured.

There were no immediate claims of responsibly for the deadly attack.

Outlawed ethnic Baluch militant groups and the Pakistani Taliban, also known as the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), routinely carry out attacks against security forces and civilians in Baluchistan.

Last month, two major Pakistan army bases came under attack in the sparsely populated province, and the ensuing clashes had lasted three days, killing nine soldiers and 20 assailants.

The Baluch Liberation Army, or BLA, designated as a terrorist group by Pakistan and the United States, took responsibility for the simultaneous assaults.

That attack came just days after militants ambushed and killed 10 Pakistani soldiers in one of the deadliest attacks in years in Baluchistan.

The BLA claimed credit for the violence.

European Markets Make Gains Amid Russia-Ukraine War European markets are rising Wednesday as Russia launched a more intense phase of its invasion of Ukraine.

The FTSE index in London is up 0.9 per cent at midday, with Paris’s CAC 40 one percent

assault on Ukraine,” EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said in a statement. “It is also a significant and direct threat to the Union’s public order and security.”

Facebook owner Meta FB.O, Alphabet Inc’s Google GOOGL.O, YouTube and TikTok are already blocking access to RT and Sputnik in the EU. Twitter TWTR.N has said it will comply with the EU ban.

higher and the DAX index in Frankfurt up 0.7 per cent.

Stock markets in Asia and Australia were mixed earlier Wednesday. Japan’s benchmark Nikkei index finished 1.6 per cent lower, while Shanghai’s Composite index and the TSEC index in Taiwan both closed 0.1 per cenr lower. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index dropped 1.8 per cent, while Mumbai’s Sensex lost 1.3 per cent.

The KOSPI index in South Korea closed 0.1 per cent higher. Australia’s benchmark S&P/ASX index finished up 0.2 per cent.

In commodities trading, gold was selling at $1,928.20 an ounce, down 0.8 per cent.

Oil markets are continuing to rise, with US crude oil trading at $109.07 per barrel, an increase of 5.4 per cent, while Brent crude oil, the international benchmark, is 5.7 per cent higher, selling at $110.96 per barrel.

Russia’s currency, the ruble, was trading at 108.75 to the US dollar, down 3.5 per cent.

The Russian Stock Exchange is closed for the third consecutive day after sanctions imposed by a growing list of nations in response to Russia’s attack on Ukraine. The British online newspaper The Independent said Russia’s central bank will allow a limited number of operations for the first time.

In futures trading, all three major US indices are trending slightly higher ahead of Wall Street’s opening bell.

After Battering Eastern Australia, Heavy Rains Move into Sydney Authorities in Sydney, Australia are warning of a potential disaster Wednesday as torrential rains that have battered eastern Australia in recent days have triggered flash flood warnings in the country’s second-largest city.

Evacuation orders have been issued for several areas in western Sydney with forecasters predicting the city will be hit with as much as 20 centimeters of rain between late Wednesday and early Thursday. Authorities say Warragamba Dam, the main water source for the city of five million residents, began overflowing Wednesday morning.

The rains have inundated several towns and cities in the states of Queensland and New South Wales, leaving city streets and homes submerged under several centimeters of water. At least 13 people have been killed, four of them in the hard-hit town of Lismore, located nearly 800 kilometers north of Sydney, the capital city of New South Wales. The victims include a man in his 70s who was found in his flooded home, while the body of another man was found floating in the street in downtown Lismore.

Emergency crews in Lismore and other towns have carried out numerous rescues of residents trapped in their homes by the rising floodwaters, with many desperately climbing onto rooftops waiting for help.

Australia’s east coast summer has been dominated by the La Nina climate pattern, which is typically associated with greater rainfall.

Hilary Bambrick, a professor and

environmental expert Queensland University of Technology, says the current rains shows Australia is “unprepared for the supercharged weather” driven by climate change, despite “decades of warnings” from scientists.

Russia Escalates Ukraine Attacks Despite Talks Prospect Russia escalated attacks on Ukrainian cities Wednesday as the two sides claimed control of a strategic city and expressed a willingness to resume talks aimed at ending the nearly week-old war.

Moscow said it had seized control of Kherson, a port city with a quarter million people on the Black Sea, a claim that was disputed by Ukrainian presidential adviser Oleksiy Arestovych. “The city has not fallen, our side continues to defend,” he said.

The most intensive airstrikes hit the northeastern city of Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second largest city and home to 1.5 million people. An attack destroyed a police building in the city’s center, further reducing it to an area of ruined buildings and debris.

Ukrainian authorities said Russian attacks killed 21 people in Kharkiv on Tuesday, and four more Wednesday morning. Heavy shelling also continued in the southern port city of Mariupol, where the wounded were unable to evacuate, according to the city’s mayor.

Ukraine’s emergency agency said Russia’s attacks have killed more than 2,000 at hospitals, kindergarten facilities and homes. But nearly a week after the invasion started, Russia had not overthrown Ukraine’s government as planned.

Russia’s defense ministry put out its first report on casualties, saying 498 of its troops were killed in Ukraine, while more than 1,500 others were wounded.

Russia-Ukraine War: EU Bans RT, Sputnik for False Information Russian state-controlled media outlets RT and Sputnik will be banned in the European Union with immediate effect for systematic disinformation over Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the 27-country bloc said on Wednesday in an unprecedented move. The sanction means EU operators will be prohibited from broadcasting, facilitating or otherwise contributing to the dissemination of any RT and Sputnik content. Broadcasting licenses or authorization, transmission and distribution arrangements between the two companies and their EU counterparts will also be suspended.

The ban applies to RT’s English unit and operations in Britain, Germany, France and Spain.

“Systematic information manipulation and disinformation by the Kremlin is applied as an operational tool in its

UN Intensifies Aid Operations Amid Ukraine’ Humanitarian Emergency UN aid agencies are ramping up humanitarian operations in Ukraine as Russia’s bombing of civilian residential areas and infrastructure escalates and civilian casualties mount.

The Ukrainian government reports Russian airstrikes have killed hundreds of people and wounded more than 1,600. UN human rights office estimates are more conservative, but officials say the real toll is likely to be much higher than their monitors have been able to verify.

A spokesman for the UN children’s fund, James Elder, is in Lviv in western Ukraine. He says the city is in utter turmoil, with thousands of people seeking to escape the fighting. Given the chaotic situation, he says it is not possible to know how many people, including children, are being killed.

“We know that thousands and thousands are at risk. And we know that more children, gut-wrenchingly are going to die or be injured in this unless fighting ends…There are tens of thousands of children in orphanages in Ukraine,” said Elder. “Many of those are in major cities, which are under bombardment right now. So, we hold the gravest fears for all these children.”

Elder says UNICEF has been working on both sides of what is known as the contact line. This is the 500-kilometer zone separating Russian-backed territories in eastern Ukraine from the rest of the country. He says the agency aims to increase its support to tens of thousands of vulnerable people across the country.

The World Health Organisation representative in Poland, Paloma Cuchi, says the agency is preparing to help a potentially massive number of refugees arriving from Ukraine. Speaking from the Polish capital, Warsaw, she says arrivals who are injured will need treatment. She says there will be a need to prevent and treat people with communicable diseases such as tuberculosis.

“We are seeing a need to provide assistance and vaccinations for COVID-19,” said Cuchi. “We are seeing since there are many kids coming, we are also seeing that there is a need for routine vaccinations like measles or treating people with pre-existing conditions—you know like diabetes, cancer, heart problems.”

Cuchi says a first shipment of medicines and medical supplies was expected in Poland Wednesday. She also says experts in mental health, as well as health interventions and emergency operations, also are being deployed.

Ukraine Invasion Sparks Controversial Commentary on Chinese Social Media Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine last week, Chinese social media, usually a controlled space, is rife with conflicting comments about Ukraine.

Censors have deleted thousands of posts — many containing vulgar sexual remarks about Ukrainian women — along with the accounts from which they originated.

A wide variety of comments are emerging hourly on the chatting platform WeChat; the Douyin video app, or Chinese TikTok; and Weibo, the Chinese version of Twitter.

Some social media users are asking the Chinese government to take advantage of the opportunity presented by the Ukrainian crisis to seize Taiwan. China regards the self-ruled island as a breakaway province, even though it has its own flag, currency, military and democratic institutions. The Chinese government has said it is ready to bring about a reunification with Taiwan, even if force is required.

Chinese social media is also witnessing an outpouring of support for Russia and criticism of the US over its support for Ukraine. A small number of people are asking why Russian President Vladimir Putin tried to interfere in the affairs of another country by urging Russianspeaking residents of Ukraine to revolt against their local governments.

46

THURSDAY, ͻ˜ ͺ͸ͺͺ ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWS

I WANT TO BE PRESIDENT...

L-R: Senior Economist, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, (FDC), Oluwanbepelumi Olanubi; Chief Henry Okolo; PDP Aspirant, Alhaji Mohammed Hayatu-Deen and Chairman, Eurofrique Limited, Dr. Ilya Stephen Mshelizah, during the declaration of Hayatu-Deen to contest for Nigeria President held in Lagos...yesterday

INEC Chairman: Our Greatest Achievement is Deepening Technology in Election Management Says BVAS will be used in Ekiti, Osun, 2023 polls Chuks Okocha in Abuja At a meeting with members of the European Mission in Nigeria, the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, yesterday, declared that the greatest achievement of the commission since the 2019 general election was the deepening and deployment of technology in election management

The INEC chairman also disclosed that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) would be used in the Ekiti, Osun States governorship polls and ultimately, the 2023 general election.

Speaking in Abuja, when the Head of the EU Follow-up Mission, Maria Arena, who also headed the EU Election Observation Mission to Nigeria’s General Election in 2019, visited the commission, the INEC

chairman said, INEC was the first electoral commission in West Africa, if not Africa, as a whole, to upload Polling Unit level results to a portal in real-time on Election Day. "In addition, there are other portals for ease of nomination of candidates and submission of list of Polling Agents by political parties and the accreditation of media, domestic and international observers," Yakubu said.

On the forthcoming governorship elections in Osun and Ekiti States, he said, "We will continue to carry out more pilot test of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and deploy the same device in the forthcoming Ekiti and Osun Governorship elections and ultimately the 2023 General Election.

"We have also made a huge progress in the area of voter accreditation through the deployment

Consumer Rights Agency Issues Interim Orders Prohibiting Airfare Hike James Emejo in Abuja The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) yesterday issued an interim order to scheduled domestic airline operators, preventing them from, “any increase in airfares and or any conduct not necessarily directly in compliance, but in response to changes in the market on account of a compliance by others,” pending outcome of the commission’s investigation.

The Executive Vice Chairman/ Chief Executive, FCCPC, Mr. Babatunde Irukera, said though the investigation was at early stages, there were sufficient probable cause to proceed and also provide interim measures to restore a free and undistorted domestic aviation market.

By the interim order, the operators are required to normalise prices to their prior state before the recent increment.

He said the commission was in addition to engaging the relevant stakeholders also entering and dispatching interim orders under Sections 17(a),(e),(l),(s),18(3)(a), 157 and 158 of the FCCP Act “prohibiting the performance or continuation of any agreement or arrangement associated with, or resulting from discussions, deliberations, debates, argument or resolutions of/at any meeting of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) or its members regarding any increase in air fares and or any conduct not necessarily directly in compliance, but in response to changes in the market on account

of a compliance by others”.

The commission, in a statement signed by Irukera, further enjoined scheduled domestic airline operators to ensure strict and prompt compliance with the order.

He said, a preliminary investigation by the commission had established that the AON held meetings on February 8, 17 and 23, 2022, where decisions to increase airfares were deliberated in violation of guiding regulation.

He added the instances of pricefixing denotes anti-competition and against FCCPA. According to him, “The investigation also confirms that one of the items of discussion during at least one of those meetings was to set base or minimum airfares. The Commission’s understanding from intelligence so far gathered is that there was significant controversy and or an initial lack of consensus with respect to coordinated conduct resulting in setting airfares.

“The Commission also has credible information that while attendees at the meeting may not have arrived at a consensus, the meeting ended in a resolution that encouraged, permitted or consented to the coordinated conduct.

“The Commission’s understanding from the deliberations at the meeting is that the attendees engaged in mutual discussions and exchange of their respective revenue management models or other commercially sensitive information.”

Continuing, the FCCPC boss said, “The FCCPA prohibits conduct or any coordination between

competitors including on the platform of trade associations.

Specifically, Section 107 (1)(a) forbids competitors from fixing prices, and Section 108 prohibits any conspiracy, combination, agreement or arrangement between competitors in any manner that unduly restrains or injures competition.

Coordination in increasing prices (otherwise known as cartel) is an unambiguous infringement of the FCCPA. “In furtherance of the discussions and or resolution at the meeting, certain champions of the coordinated conduct of imposing a base fare or a Minimum Re-Sale Price (MRSP) for their services in a coordinated and contemporaneous manner proceeded to increase their fares to a minimum of N50,000 across all sectors. Specifically, Air

Peace, Azman Air and United Nigeria Airlines immediately proceeded with the increase. Arik followed.

“However, on Friday, February 18, 2022 at 6:31 p.m. Aero Contractors informed its trade partners (travel agents) and its commercial executive team by email that ticket fares were reviewed effective February 18, 2022 with the least fare being N50,000 across all routes. Aero Contractors noted in this communication that all other airlines have effected same increase.

“Within days, Max Air also increased fares to the same minimum N50,000. Ibom Air and Dana approximately 48 hours after what appears to be the initial coordinated conduct, also increased fares although not to the purported N50,000 minimum.”

of (BVAS). We have carried out a number of pilots and in spite of the challenges encountered in some locations, we are convinced about its efficacy. In the six by-elections conducted last weekend in four States of the federation, the device performed optimally in both rural, sub-urban and urban areas, where the elections were held."

Yakubu, who gave account of the review of the 2019 general election, said, "Immediately after the 2019 General Election, we undertook a comprehensive review of the election observation reports by accredited domestic and international observers.

"Beyond that, we conducted our own internal review involving our regular and ad hoc officials and subsequently expanded it to include political parties, civil society organisations, security agencies, media organisations.

"From the review, we identified 178 recommendations. We then categorised them into three areas for the purpose of implementation.

We have gone ahead to implement many of the recommendations that require administrative action by the Commission, while working with the National Assembly on areas that require legislative action by way of amendments to the Electoral Act and the Constitution.

"Happily, this meeting is coming only five days after the Electoral Act 2022, which contains many progressive provisions, was signed into law and barely 24 hours after the National Assembly considered

Qatar Airways Launches First Direct Flight to Kano Michael Olugbode in Abuja

Qatar Airways has launched its first direct flight from Doha to Kano in Nigeria.

Speaking at the event which held yesterday, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Qatar, Yakubu Abdullahi Ahmed, said the airline made a wise decision by accepting his request to expand its operations to major commercial cities in Nigeria.

He said Kano was among the

most densely populated cities in the country and the commercial capital of northern Nigeria.

He further disclosed that, “As Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the State of Qatar, it is part of my cardinal responsibilities to promote political, economic, and socio-cultural partnerships that will lead to the realisation of mutual benefits.

“I have no doubt, the milestone we are celebrating today will bring the people of Nigeria and Qatar

closer. This will therefore give them the opportunity to interact and explore areas of common interests.

With such interactions, strong bonds are bound to flourish.”

The Ambassador also said since the beginning of his diplomatic assignment in Doha, he has received several enquiries from both Nigeria and Qatar about various fields of human endeavours, adding that such curiosity would certainly lead to only one thing – establishment of sustainable win-win cooperation.

wide raging amendments to the 1999 Constitution," he stated.

He explained that shortly after it was signed into law, the Commission released the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2023 General Election which contains 14 activities out of which two have already been implemented.

These, he explained, were the publication of the Notice of Election and the availability of nomination forms on a dedicated portal for downloading by political parties.

Yakubu further said, "With regard to the 2019 General Election, the EU Observation Mission made 30 recommendations out of which 11 concerned the electoral Commission directly.

"Three of them were identified as priority recommendations while 8 are categorised as general. The priority recommendations include the improvement of organisational and operational capacity of the Commission as well as the management of election outcome, particularly, the availability and public access to results from Polling Units and collation centres," he explained.

The INEC said since 2019, the commission has made progress, including the creation of a new Gender and Inclusivity Department as well as the Litigation and Prosecution Department.

"We have similarly expanded voter access to Polling Units for the first time in 25 years by converting the erstwhile 56,872 Voting Points and Voting Point (Settlements) into Polling Units and relocating some of them from congested locations to unserved and under-served locations, bringing the total number of Polling Units to 176,846.

"We must admit that in many states, we are struggling to achieve a more balanced distribution of voters to polling units. However, this is a priority project for the Commission, which will be accomplished before the 2023 General Election."

He, however, assured his visitors that INEC would continue to improve on elections in Nigeria and be transparent in the management of the process.

For this reason, he said: "We always welcome suggestions for improvement by Nigerians as well as friends of Nigeria. We appreciate the support of the EU to the electoral process and democratic governance in Nigeria."

47

THURSDAY, ͻ˜ ͺ͸ͺͺ ˾ T H I S D AY

FORTY-SEVEN CONVENTION: APC SET TO ROLL, APPOINTS ABDULRAZAQ ZONING COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN However, Akpanudoedehe hinted, in a telephone conversation, that the leadership of the ruling party had yet to meet over the Electoral Act recently signed into law by President Muhammadu Buhari.

But as the convention team readied to get the ball rolling, principal officers of the Senate and some senators of the ruling party, led by President of the Senate, Dr Ahmad Lawan, his deputy, Omo-Agege said they had endorsed the candidature of Senator Abdullahi Adamu (Nasarawa West) for the office of National Chairman.

Nonetheless, former Governor of Borno State and frontline chairmanship aspirant, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, said he was not aware of the alleged endorsement of Adamu by Buhari as the next national chairman of the party.

Meanwhile, in Kwara State, a chieftain of APC and Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University, Dutse, Jigawa State, Hon. Benjamin Issa Ezekiel, said one of the chairmanship aspirants from the North-central geopolitical zone, Malam Saliu Mustapha, remained the state’s “unity candidate” for the office of APC chairman.

Akpanudoedehe said, in the statement, "The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Caretaker/Extraordinary Convention Planning Committee (CECPC) and Governor of Yobe State, His Excellency, Mai Mala Buni, has approved the appointment of the Party's Zoning Committee for the forthcoming National Convention."

He named other members of the committee to include Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, who will serve as deputy chairman of the zoning committee. Professor Etim Nyong, Dr. MB Shehu, Mustapha Salihu, Senator Teslim Folarin, and Mr. Sadeeq Sule-Iko Sami were named members of the committee, while Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Nkem Okeke, would serve as Secretary.

Akpanudoedehe said the committee was expected to submit its report on March 7.

But some senators endorsed Adamu during a meeting held at the Senate wing of the National Assembly complex on Wednesday evening, with the ranking senator in attendance.

The APC senators, numbering about 10, were said to have resolved to back Adamu in his bid to become the party’s national chairman at the forthcoming national convention slated to hold in Abuja on March 26. Sources told THISDAY that the senators also agreed to engage other stakeholders, including some of the chairmanship aspirants, on the need to drop their ambitions and support the chairman of Senate Committee on Agriculture to emerge as chairman of the ruling party.

One of the aspirants, who is also a serving senator, Sani Musa (Niger East), attended the Wednesday meeting. But THISDAY could not confirm if he had agreed to drop his ambition and support Adamu.

At the end of the meeting, the senators took a group photograph,

with Adamu flanking the senate president on the right Those present at the meeting included Ovie Omo-Agege; Senate Leader, Senator Yahaya Abdullahi; Senate Chief Whip, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu; Deputy Chief Whip, Senator Sabi Abdullahi; and Senator Jubril Barau.

Others in attendance were Senators Bello Mandiya and Opeyemi Bamidele.

Although it was widely believed that Buhari had expressed his preference for Adamu as the consensus candidate for national chairman, THISDAY had reported that APC stakeholders from the South-east pushed for the office of National Secretary, while the South-west, where the office was originally zoned, was still divided over the party position.

During a meeting with the president, APC governors agreed that all the previous positions in the party held by members from the North-west would now go to those from the South-east; all positions that were held by those from the North-east would go to those from the South-west; and all positions previously held by members from the North-central would automatically go to those from the South-south. This meant that the positions of national secretary and chairman had been dealt with.

But, with the setting up of zoning committee by the party, stakeholders would be on the look out for possible changes in the zoning formula, even though a governor, who preferred anonymity, recently told THISDAY that the zoning formula in circulation was not sacrosanct.

Akpanudoedehe, however, told THISDAY in a telephone chat that the party was currently focused on conducting the convention.

He stated, "We have a leader of the party, which is the president.

We have stakeholders, governors, senators, House of Representatives members, former governors – it is all embracing. They are critical, legally empowered. We have to consider a number of issues.

“We are yet to meet on the Electoral Act. Don't forget it was signed over the weekend, this is a new week. But we are very focused on the convention."

Asked if the party would be able to conduct its zonal congresses, convention, and primaries between April 4 and June 3, the secretary said he wouldn't want to pre-empt the leadership of the party.

He added, "Let me not pre-empt the leadership of the party. Let me not speak as an individual. I'm only holding this position in trust for everybody. I speak the decision of the caretaker committee. The convention is on course."

Nevertheless, another party source informed THISDAY that the reason Akpanudoedehe wanted to remain secretary of the party was to make it easier for him to get the Akwa Ibom State governorship ticket.

According to the source, "He (Akpanudoedehe) wanted to remain secretary and contest for governor. But the governors took the secretary to South-west and it is micro-zoned to Oyo State. Buni wants to be Vice President. Namani

(Ken) wants to be governor."

Sheriff: I'm Not Aware of Buhari's Endorsement of Adamu

Former Governor of Borno State and frontline national chairmanship aspirant of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, said he was not aware of the purported endorsement of a former governor of Nasarawa State, Senator Abdulahi Adamu, by President Muhammadu Buhari as the next national chairman of APC ahead the March 26 convention of the party.

Sheriff stated this while addressing a press conference yesterday in Abuja, saying the leadership of the party has not communicated to the aspirants that one of them has been endorsed.

The former lawmaker, however, added that if the president, as the leader of the party, anointed anybody, he would withdraw from the race and stand by the decision.

Sheriff said it became imperative to address the press due to some concerns of party faithful regarding the alleged decision and position of the president as well as the party leadership with respect to the national chairmanship.

He stated, "Of late, I have been

National Assembly to engage the executive on a bill to amend the PIA to align with the president’s request.

He said, “This is an opportunity for me to speak to the issue of the executive sending a request for the amendment of the Petroleum Industry Act to extend the provision of the fuel subsidy, which is also requested in the amendment of the 2022 Appropriation Act. “The Act itself says something else, that there will be no subsidy.

If we approve subsidy in the 2022 Appropriation Act Amendment Bill, then it means we have to extend the period in which government will provide subsidy up to the point this subsidy we approve (N2.557 trillion) would last. So, there is need to come up with the request for amendment.

“Our Gas and Oil-related Committees should work with the

and I will be committed to it. On Mr. President's decision, I stand."

Ex-Kwara Speaker Declares Mustapha State’s Unity Candidate

A chieftain of APC and ProChancellor of the Federal University, Dutse, Hon. Benjamin Issa Ezekiel, said the chairmanship aspirant of the party from Kwara State, Malam Saliu Mustapha, was the state’s “unity candidate” for the office.

The 49-year-old Mustapha is said to be the youngest of the aspirants vying for the position of the APC national chairman, with experience as former National Deputy Chairman of the defunct Congress for Progressives Change.

He is a long time ally of Buhari right from the latter’s days in the defunct All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) through to the CPC. Ezekiel, who is also a former Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, spoke in Ilorin on the sideline of a Personality Public Lecture organised in Mustapha’s honour by the Postgraduate Students Association of Nigeria, University of Ilorin chapter. He stressed that if elected, Mustapha would solidify the party on the strength of his goodwill with the various tendencies in the party.

Ezekiel said, "Mustapha enjoys

the blessings of all tendencies in the APC in Kwara State. Mustapha has a history of a cordial relationship with virtually all major stakeholders of the party, starting with Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq."

The former speaker also said the senators representing the state and the two ministers from the state, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and Senator Gbemisola Saraki, among others, supported Mustapha’s aspiration.

According to him, “The only reason why Mallam Saliu Mustapha is the only candidate contesting from Kwara State is because of his goodwill at home. He is not only loved by the community and traditional leadership of the state, which led to his elevation as the Turaki of Ilorin, he is also very well respected by the political class, especially, within the progressive family.

“This is unlike other states in the North-central, where there are multiple candidates from the same state. Niger and Nasarawa are ready examples. So, among all the contestants from the Northcentral, he is the only one with the most formidable state backing that cuts across all interest blocs. This is why we are appealing to the president to pull his weight behind Mustapha, who, incidentally, has been his long time ally.”

OIL PRICE SURGES ABOVE $113 AS OPEC KEEPS SUPPLY UNCHANGED Although by now, Nigeria should be saving as much as $50 per barrel that it sells, the reverse appears to be the case, as the cost of under-recovery continues to soar.

In January 2022 alone, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited claimed that it expended N210.38 billion on petrol subsidy.

Furthermore, due to the challenge, last month, the oil company failed to remit any money to the federation account, a development that would definitely hamper the ability of sub-nationals to meet their financial obligations.

President Muhammadu Buhari recently asked the National Assembly to approve the N2.557 trillion budget for petrol subsidy in 2022.

However, aside Brent, which exceeded $113 per barrel, recording over 7.69 per cent hike at the time of writing this report, West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the United States benchmark, also surged to $111.24 per barrel, with about 7.57 per cent increase.

It came as Russia’s flagship crude oil, which was offered for sale at a record discount, got no bidders, the latest indication that trading of oil from the country’s western ports is grinding to a halt.

But despite the tightening global oil market, OPEC yesterday resisted pressure from the United States and some of its allies to increase supply, although prices were already under pressure before the Russia invasion of Ukraine last week.

Though the United States and other member states of the International Energy Agency (IEA), in a bid to cool prices, announced a strategic oil reserve release, so far it has done little to tame rampaging oil market prices.

Despite calls to ramp up production, OPEC alliance kept additional output at 400,000 barrels per day.

FUEL SUBSIDY: LAWAN ASKS BUHARI TO FORWARD PIA AMENDMENT BILL TO N'ASSEMBLY

mittee on Appropriation, after the bill scaled Second Reading.

The senate president said the request seeking an amendment to the PIA would enable the National Assembly to extend the subsidy regime in the petroleum law to be in line with the president’s request for an additional N2.557 trillion to cover fuel subsidy in the 2022 budget from July this year.

The present subsidy regime was expected to elapse in June 2022, in accordance with the provisions of the PIA. Buhari, in a letter to the National Assembly dated February 10, 2022, had requested the legislature to make an additional provision for N2.557 trillion to fund petrol subsidy in the 2022 Budget Framework from July this year.

Lawan mandated the relevant Oil and Gas Committees of the

inundated by insinuations and rumours that President Muhammadu Buhari has zoned and endorsed a candidate for this all-important position in our party's leadership.

"First and foremost, I am not aware of any official statement or position by Mr. President on endorsement of any particular candidate or/and zoning of the chairmanship position of our great party.

"Mr. President and, indeed, the party is yet to issue a formal statement on these issues. I am in the race for the national chairmanship position of our party APC, because of my strength of character, capacity and competence. My intentions are clear and explicitly for public good rather than self-interest."

The former governor said as a loyal party member, he would abide by the decisions of the president at any time he made an official position known. Sheriff said he had unequivocal confidence in the president's capacity to make the right choice for the growth of the party.

While stressing that he was committed to working with anyone to reposition the party towards a resounding victory in 2023 general election and beyond, Sheriff said, "Our guiding principle will be the party's constitution and manifesto,

executive side of government to get that sorted as soon as possible, so that what we do is appropriate, and is lawful and legal.”

The bill seeking to amend the 2022 Appropriation Act scaled Second Reading in the senate on Tuesday.

The bill, sponsored by Senate Leader, Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi North), requested Senate approval for N106,161,499,052 for capital expenditures and N43,870,592,044 for recurrent without increasing budget deficit.

Buhari had accused members of the National Assembly of inserting their projects in the 2022 budget at the detriment of those initiated by the executive arm of government. He had, therefore, asked the federal lawmakers to amend the 2022 Appropriation Act passed by the National Assembly in December 2021.

However, it did not come as a surprise to those who followed activities of the oil cartel closely, since the producer group had insisted that supply was not the problem.

OPEC alone accounts for around 40 per cent of the world's oil supply.

A release after the 26th OPEC and non-OPEC ministerial meeting, concluded yesterday, explained that the market remained balanced and did not need further distortions. It noted that following the conclusion of the 26th OPEC and non-OPEC ministerial meeting, the current oil market fundamentals and the consensus on its outlook “pointed to a well-balanced market”.

OPEC stressed, “The current volatility is not caused by changes in market fundamentals, but by current geopolitical developments.”

It added, “The OPEC and participating non-OPEC oilproducing countries decided to: reaffirm the decision of the 10th ministerial meeting on 12 April 2020 and further endorsed in subsequent meetings, including the 19th ministerial meeting on 18 July 2021.

“It reconfirms the production adjustment plan and the monthly production adjustment mechanism approved at the 19th ministerial meeting and the decision to adjust upward the monthly overall production by 0.4 mb/d for the month of April 2022.

“OPEC reiterates the critical importance of adhering to full conformity and to the compensation mechanism taking advantage of the extension of the compensation period until the end of June 2022.”

The Sanusi Barkindo-led organisation stated that compensation plans should be submitted in accordance with the earlier agreed procedure, and it scheduled its next meeting for March 31.

Petrol Scarcity Persists However, in spite of the deteriorating fuel supply situation across the country, the NNPC yesterday said it currently has over 1.7 billion litres of the product in stock.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Nigeria International Energy Summit (NIES), which entered its fourth day yesterday, Group Managing Director, NNPC, Mallam Mele Kyari, told journalists that the situation was being worsen by motorists who are buying more than they require.

The NNPC boss noted that loading across the nation was now taking place 24 hours a day, explaining that the company has enough volume to meet the country’s current demand.

“We want to assure Nigerians that we have adequate supply of petroleum products. Currently, we have over 1.7 billion litres of petrol, both marine and land, and that also means that we have capacity to load from all depots.

“We have several loading points in all depots. This will ensure that

spaces (gap) created by panic buying, which is what you are seeing in the fuel stations, today will be filled,” he stated.

Kyari argued that typically, people in the kind of situation Nigeria had been confronted with, would ordinarily buy in excess of what they need, opining that additional supply would resolve address the situation. “I am very sure very soon, you will see relief on this,” he assured.

He emphasised that neither the government nor the NNPC had any plan to adjust the pump price or ex depot prices of petrol, and therefore called on marketers to sell at the prices approved by government.

He stated that the NNPC was engaging the unions in the industry and have agreed that NNPC and the midstream/downstream authority will carry out necessary sanctions on anyone found doing underhand business.

“We have no shortage in the country, cars are taking longer to buy. We sincerely apologise for the pain but we will get out of this soon,” he said.

He urged motorists to trust the NNPC that it has adequate supply in-country, stating that the panic buying remains the problem. “Let them make sure they don’t buy what they don’t need because when they come back, they will still find petroleum products,” he said.

The GMD said soon the directive not to sell petrol in jerry cans would be relaxed, noting that the decision was taken to ensure safety in the filling stations and to avoid overcrowding.

“The problem is that those who will ordinarily buy N3,000 are buying N13,000”, he said, adding that it was slowing down the system.

Kyari noted that although supply disruptions cannot be stopped totally, recovery time remains very critical. According to him, the NNPC was working with the security agencies to ensure that black marketers stop inflicting hardship on Nigerians.

Earlier, while speaking during the main programme, the NNPC GMD noted that for over 50 years, investment in the oil and gas industry had been stifled because the right framework was absent.

“This is an energy company and enabler, a company for all of us.

But more importantly, the company that is expected to support energy security.

“And that can't work except we collaborate and have the right climate. I'm sure all of us are aware of the struggles that we've had, getting the right kind of fiscal and regulatory framework in place to make sure that companies perform in the best manner possible and in the best business environment that is possible.

“In reality, we have struggled

with fiscal change, getting the right environment for business since 1967.

That means that we have frozen our environment for close to 50 years, that we haven’t changed essentially for close to 50 years.

“And whether intended or not, that took its impact and took its toll. And it's very visible in our recent history, in the sense that in the last 10 years, investment inflows into Sub Saharan Africa and our country was probably about $3 billion to $5 billion.

“In reality, we have done nothing.

And the reason is very simple: You don't have the right fiscal structure, you don't have the right climate, regulatory stability, and the right framework where people can predict what will happen next.

“And that's why the cumulative effect is that that's under-investment, there’s lack of growth. And of course, it produced some other results. Part of it is that many of our partners now in all their ramifications, nobody invested substantially, even for new projects.

“Many of these structures now, when you look at them, you think you are in the war front, and also many of them look like museums.

And I think they're not designed to function, even in the best of companies,” he said.

He stated that with the passage of the new legislation, which he said was resisted in the past because people did not want to lose influence and control, there is now an opportune moment to turn things around.

With the new law , which has made the NNPC a commercial company that will deliver dividend to its shareholders, Kyari assured that the company would take off fully in July of this year.

“The combination of this means that this company must operate in the world class standards, must be fully automated, must imbibe transition and must recognise the necessity for energy transition,” he stated.

He stated that the company was shopping for the right partners, noting specifically that Nigeria’s gas resources must be developed as a transition fuel.

Speaking on the topic: “Data to Barrel” Chief Executive, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Agency (NURPC), Gbenga Komolafe, said the industry must acquire big data, to explore, capture, develop, produce hydrocarbon, and monitor reservoir performance and surveillance in real time.

He explained that the upstream industry was facing challenges that require the need for mass data in high-precision reservoir modelling and surveillance.

“Consequently, superb computing power, high-performance storage capacity, powerful and integrated mapping applications are required to be able to turn big data into barrels and value for money.

48

THURSDAY, March 3, 2022 • T H I S D AY

NEWS

Women Protest over Constitution Review, Allege Discrimination Obaseki, Onyejeocha, Odebiyi, flay denial of women representation

Sunday Aborisade, Udora Orizu and Juliet Akoje in Abuja Scores of Nigerian women protested yesterday at the entrance of the National Assembly over the rejection of bills to promote the interest of the female gender in the ongoing constitutional amendment.

During voting on the constitution amendment in both Chambers of the National Assembly on Tuesday, the bills seeking to promote the interest of women did not scale through.

The bills sought to grant special seats for women in the legislature, indigeneship, citizenship and 35 percent party leadership.

The lawmakers in both Senate and House of Representatives, voted on 68 amendments, recommended in the report submitted last week by the Special Ad Hoc Committees on the Review of the 1999 Constitution.

Senate Minority Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, came out to speak to the protesting women, but they refused. Also ranking senator, Robert Boroffice, led a delegation of senators to appeal to the women, but they also refused.

Boroffice said they were from the National Assembly leadership and assured that their message would be taken back and dealt with, but the women were not to be deterred.

Dr. Abiola Afolabi, who spoke on behalf of one of the groups stated that the treatment of the bills by National Assembly was a manifestation of historical injustices against Nigerian women, adding that it was unfortunate that women were treated shabbily when they have so much to contribute to make the country better.

She explained that what women requested in the constitutional amendment were just the bare minimum, saying there were still a lot of issues to be addressed.

"The constitution is discriminatory against women and women were ready to rise up and take their destiny in their hands and called on women across the country to rise up to the occasion.

"Nigerian women are disappointed and aggrieved at the actions of the 9th National Assembly (NASS) when they denied women the opportunity of inclusion and representation in governance by voting against the gender bills.

“The NASS has spoken loud and clear that they do not want progress for society: for mothers, aunties, sisters, wives, and for daughters.

"It is particularly sad that in a month globally dedicated to celebrating women worldwide, our NASS has chosen to deny women basic human rights particularly, the right to identity and belonging," she added.

She further stated that the proposed gender bills in the 5th Constitution Alteration Bills that were all rejected were proposed

legislations targeted at addressing the current gender imbalance across the legislative arm of governments across the country, whilst reducing the under-representation of women in political office.

"The men of the 9th NASS have reinforced the discrimination and political bias against women as enshrined in the 1999 constitution by denying citizenship to a foreign-born husband of a Nigerian woman. (While it allows Nigerian men's foreign-born wives to be awarded automatic citizenship)" "Denying Nigerian women indigeneity through marriage.

Denying 35 per cent appointed positions for women and settling for 20 per cent,” she added.

The women therefore demand that all gender bills be reconsidered.

As at the time of filing this report, the gate was still blocked by the women as they played music, danced and insisted that they must meet the Senate President, Ahmed Lawan and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila.

Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, yesterday expressed disappointment that her male colleagues voted against bills that sought inclusion of more women in elective positions during the just concluded voting on the constitution amendments.

Onyejeocha speaking to journalists in Abuja, yesterday, lamented that Nigerian women were hurting due to the rejection of the bills by the male lawmakers.

She recalled that from the 6th Assembly, female legislators pushed for 35 per cent affirmative action to no avail.

According to her, the reason it kept failing was because the men kept on asking 'which seat do you want to take.'

The lawmaker also recalled that when she joined the parliament there were only about 20 female lawmakers, which according to her has since declined to 13.

She lamented that with the “gang up, conspiracy and hatred” for inclusion of more women, there's no guarantee that in the 10th assembly, the number would not decline further.

The Deputy Chief Whip said with the outcome of voting on Tuesday and the recent low ranking of Nigeria in number of women in parliament, Nigerian male lawmakers should be ashamed of what they did as they will reap what they sow.

On the financial implication of additional seats for women, she said it wouldn't cost more than N2 billion, and hence shouldn't have anything to do with the rejection, adding that the male lawmakers should be more worried about the financial implication, danger, calamity of non-inclusion of women.

Onyejeocha said: "Everybody saw what transpired on the floor

of the House, even the Senate yesterday. To say the least, I am very disappointed. Disappointed not because people shut down the bills but because the bills that were shut down have taken this country backwards. Nigeria as we speak is boasting with their women who are doing wonderfully well.

“And of course, you saw that Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala contested with world powers and she made it. That's our blood. Look at Amina Mohammed, to mention but a few. We boast of being the giant of Africa, yet we are the least as

far as women representation is concerned.

“I am also worried because we are losing a lot in terms of resources because a lot of nations do not give us the grants that are meant for us because representation. We pushed for 35 percent affirmative action which is going to give us like 128 female lawmakers, no body want to hear that. Even their wives came up to ask me questions, if you pass that 35 per cent affirmative action, it will affect our husbands and so, it didn't fly.”

Similarly, the All Progressives Congress (APC) member represent-

his office, in Benin City, the state capital.

According to a statement yesterday, Uzamere, while stressing the need for uniformity in the price of PMS across the state, assured the stakeholders of the state government’s open-door policy.

He urged the stakeholders to maintain a reasonable price margin for PMS being sold to Edo citizens.

The commissioner, who frowned at the price disparity among petroleum marketers, said the Ministry of Mining, Oil and Gas, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, would guard against product racketeering and ensure conformity with the agreed price benchmark.

He said the government would

for affirmative action in politics and in government, Odebiyi lamented that the bills meant to include their wish in the constitution were killed.

He said, "It is quite unfortunate that the bills on women didn't pass.

I know that the First Lady came here to push for the approval of those bills on women.

"I also know that the wife of the vice president was also in the chambers on Tuesday. Everybody voted according to their conscience, they vote the way they feel. The senate is not monolithic. It is unfortunate it happened the way it did.

Cyber Tech CONFERENCE IN TEL AVIV...

Former Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Prof. Kingsley Moghalu (left), received by former National Security Adviser of Israel, Ilan Mizrahi, at the Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv where Moghalu is to participate in the CyberTech Tel Aviv Conference….recently.

2023: Labour Seeks Improved Political Leadership Jega urges alliance of patriots to rescue Nigeria

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The organised labour has commenced a process of political engagement which it expects would help to produce better leadership for Nigeria in the 2023 general elections.

Speaking at the 2022 Workers' Political Conference organised by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), its President, Mr. Ayuba Wabba said the purpose of the conference with the theme: “Commitment to National Emancipation and Development through Effective Engagement

by Nigerian Workers,” was to reconstruct the critical bridge of issue-based politics that accommodates the interests of Nigerian workers and people.

"Our determination is that in the run up to the 2023 elections, we must not to allow professional politicians to evade critical questions of national development," he said.

Wabba said labour's charter of demands prioritise equity, fairness and social justice. He said the organised labour was asking for free and quality education up to tertiary levels for every Nigerian child.

"Our charter of demands insist that every Nigerian should access free and quality healthcare from cradle to grave; our charter of demands make the argument for the kind of restructuring that brings sustainable development to real Nigerians currently struggling

Edo Partners Petroleum Marketers, Security Agencies, Others to Check Hike in Fuel Price

The Edo State government has partnered with the federal government, security agencies and other relevant stakeholders in the oil and gas sector to tackle issues of long queues, adulteration and hike in the price of premium motor spirit (PMS) in the state.

The Commissioner for Mining, Oil and Gas, Engr. Ethan Uzamere said this during an emergency stakeholders’ meeting with Executives of Nigerian Mainstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Major Oil Marketers Association of Nigeria (MOMAN), Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in

ing Ogun West Senatorial District, Senator Tolu Odebiyi, expressed shock, disbelief and surprise that the National Assembly on Tuesday, rejected some bills which would have empowered women to participate effectively in politics and governance.

Odebiyi said this when he spoke with journalists in Abuja, on the successful approval of the bill he sponsored on the renaming of Egbado South and North local government areas to Yewa South and North LGAs in the 1999 constitution as amended.

On the issue of women agitation

intensify efforts to ensure more supply and distribution of PMS across the state, reassuring that measures would be put in place to properly monitor the supply and distribution of petroleum products assigned to the state in order to avoid diversion.

Uzamere said, “the state will partner with federal government agencies, security agencies and other relevant stakeholders to make sure we tackle the issues of long queues, adulterated PMS and the high price of the product being sold to members of the public.

“We also want to call on the petroleum marketers, especially IPMAN to make sure they regulate the price margins with which their

members are selling the product to the populace.”

The Commissioner, therefore, urged petroleum marketers to reduce their pump price to the agreed benchmark pending when the state gets more supply of PMS. He advised them to collaborate with the state government and other relevant stakeholders to ensure a hitch-free supply chain.

Uzamere also used the opportunity to appreciate the general public for their cooperation and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to the general well-being of the people of the state, stressing that the issue of long queues in petrol stations and hike in petroleum price will soon be a thing of the past.

with the crumbs.

“Also, our charter of demands posit that politicians should no longer be allowed to send their kids to schools abroad or treat their sicknesses in foreign hospitals while the children of the poor are trapped in endless strike actions and poor medical facilities which their failed leadership has imposed on all of us," he said.

Wabba explained that the charter of demands was a pact of emancipation for Nigerian workers and people, adding that it was duty of the NLC’s leadership to put it at the front burner of 2023 politics.

"We can make this happen by mobilising every worker in Nigeria to get their Permanent Voters Card (PVC) ready. The next step is to engage politically. We must be ready to engage political parties especially Workers Political Party and progressive political interests across the country to ensure that a significant number of candidates who would vie for elective positions in 2023 subscribe to the provisions of our charter," he said.

The NLC's charter of demands were summarised under the following titles: Physical security, social protection and good governance, management of Nigeria's resources, industrialisation, education, healthcare, living wages and prioritisation of workers’ welfare.

Under the social protection and good governance, the congress said workers were demanding that Chapter 2 of the 1999 Constitution on socio-economic rights of Nigerians be made justiciable.

These, he said included provision of jobs for the Nigerian youths, payment of unemployment benefits to the unemployed Nigerians and

improving the salaries and welfare package for members of the Police and other armed forces.

On education, the NLC said Nigerian workers would no longer tolerate leaders who would undermine the education sector by sending their children to study abroad.

In his contribution, former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof.

Atahiru Jega bemoaned what he described as the sorry state of affairs in the country. He said the nation urgently needed to be rescued before things worsen.

According to Jega, Nigerian workers and their organisations, trade unions and working-class movements, "must join hands and work together with credible patriots in professional associations, civil society organisations and students and women groups, bring about remarkable improvement in our politics and governance as we inch towards the 2023 general elections.

"Therefore, I humbly suggest that, now, preparatory to the 2023 general elections, is the time to effectively mobilise, consciencetise and involve Nigerian workers in broader political engagements towards using the electoral process to improve the leadership recruitment processes, elect good and popular representatives in governance, and by so doing, catalyse good democratic governance, which would certainly be in the overall, long-term interest of the Nigerian working people," he said.

Earlier in his welcome address, Chairman of NLC Political Commission, Najeem Yasin urged workers to used their numerical strength to put in political office, persons who would respect the promise made with Nigerians.

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BOOSTING RESPONSE TO LASSA FEVER IN EDO...

L-R: Edo State Commissioner for Community and Chieftaincy Affairs, Donald Okogbe Ojemeh; Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Hon. Andrew Adaze Emwanta, and Commissioner for Health, Prof. Obehi Akoria, during a press briefing after the weekly Edo State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting, at the Government House, in Benin City, Edo State... yesterday

2023: Hayatu-Deen Declares Presidential Bid, Vows to Tackle Insecurity, Poverty Says Nigeria needs uncommon, dynamic leadership now

Sunday Okobi

Foremost Nigerian banker and economist, Mohammed HayatuDeen has declared his intention to contest for the presidency in the 2023 general election.

He has pledged to provide uncommon leadership for the Nigerian state with clarity, conviction and dynamism.

During his expression of interest which took place yesterday in Lagos, Hayatu-Deen, who addressed journalists alongside his team, said he was vying for the highest office in the land on the platform of the Peoples Democratic

Party (PDP) because presently, no one needs to be convinced that the system in Nigeria was broken.

According to him, across all tiers of government, the quality of delivery of public goods and services was abysmal.

“Therefore, we need an unusual kind of leader fully equipped with the type of skills, character and experience to safely navigate the Nigerian people out of these stormy waters to a much brighter and better place reflective of the nation’s rich potential for greatness.

I believe I am that person who can provide such uncommon leadership with clarity, conviction

and dynamism.

“I believe I have a good grasp of the opportunities and challenges confronting this country, and I amply possess the skills, background and experience to do the job. I was born here, went to school here and worked here all my life. So, I saw this country go through many of its peaks and valleys,” he explained.

The economist, who lamented that the country was facing a monumental crisis of confidence approaching existential proportions, stated that his interactions and travels across Africa and the globe gave him a powerful insight into

the DNA of the Nigerian people.

According to him, “We are one of the most energetic, dynamic and entrepreneurial people on earth.

Given an enabling environment of good public service delivery systems, liberated from red tape and abrasive rent seeking culture, the Nigerian people can perform economic miracles.

“I have for long believed that no human organisation or nation state can advance on the scale of human progress if the leadership does not have certain core beliefs and high-minded principles that taps into the DNA of the people to bring out the very best of their

Insecurity Biggest Threat to 2023 Elections, CAN tells EU Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has described insecurity challenges occasioned by the criminal activities of terrorists, bandits and kidnappers in the country as the biggest threat to next year’s general elections.

The association also restated its position on the need to have a Christian president to succeed President Muhammadu Buhari who is a Muslim and would have spent eight years in office by the time he is handing over to the next president.

CAN President, Rev. Samson Ayokunle made this assertion on Tuesday evening, during an interactive session between some Christian leaders and the European Union Delegation led by the EU Chief Election Observer, Ms. Maria Arena.

The EU delegation is on an advance mission to the country in preparation for the coming 2023 general elections.

The EU Delegation wanted to know the position of the association on the preparation of all the stakeholders - the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the security agencies and the political parties.

CAN president in a statement signed by his Special Assistant (Media & Communications), Pastor Adebayo Oladeji said the security situation in the country might not allow the general election to be credible, free and fair Ayokunle who also doubles as the Co-chairman of the Nigeria Inter Religious Council (NIREC) told the

EU delegation that voters may not feel free to go out to exercise their inalienable rights because of fear of being harmed or kidnapped or killed.

“We call on the federal government and the security agencies to wake up to the security challenges in the country where terrorists, bandits and kidnappers are operating with impunity and nowhere is safe and secure again.

“If the trend continues, many voters may not participate and the outcome of the election may not be credible,” the CAN president said.

He observed that the government appeared to be struggling to nip the ugly situation in the bud, saying that their present efforts were far from being enough.

“We have been struggling with this situation now for the past thirteen years, yet, we are still where we are,” he added.

He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to be apolitical in the assignment and asked the members of the commission who are card carrying members of the ruling party to step down or be flushed out in order to avoid compromised election results.

Ayokunle tasked INEC to borrow a leaf from its counterpart in Gambia where their recently conducted elections were far better than Nigeria's elections.

“All election observers, including All Africa Conference of Churches’ delegation that he led there adjudged the election to be credible,” he said.

According to Ayokunle, “Gambia’s elections were more credible,

free and fair. It was also free from security harassment and there was a level playing field for all the parties involved.’ “We are supposed to be doing better because we have more resources and more capacity than Gambian.’

Speaking further, he said: “Although Nigeria is practising democracy but because of our peculiarities which include multicultural, multi-tribal, and multi-religious nature, ours should be a ‘home grown democracy’ where every divide should be given a sense of belonging.

“Even if the constitution is silent on the six geopolitical

zones rotational representation, the political parties should be wise enough to make use of it in sharing the leadership positions. We have warned all political parties against fielding either Muslim-Muslim or Christian-Christian Presidential candidates.

“Since President Muhammadu Buhari is a Muslim from the North, in the interest of equity, fairness, social justice and cohesion, the next President should be a Christian from the south.”

The leader of the delegation, Ms Maria Arena promised to collaborate with the Association carrying out their assignments.

imagination and skills.

“Azikiwe, Balewa, Awolowo and Ahmadu Bello are etched in our memory as iconic figures because they had core beliefs which they waxed into a strong philosophy to govern effectively in the public interest.

“My core beliefs and principles are fully aligned to the innate strengths and entrepreneurial disposition of the Nigerian people.

Therefore, I want to give the Nigerian people ample space to put on vivid display their God given gifts of enterprise expressed through industry, hard work and innovation.”

Speaking further, he said: “The philosophy I espouse revolves around a free enterprise economy designed to deliver prosperity to the Nigerian people by quickly lifting them out of poverty and positioning Nigeria to become a powerhouse in the emerging markets.

“One of the cardinal principles of this philosophy is predicated on fiscal prudence in the management of public funds and in the efficacy of execution of public works programs; with significant portion of our income dedicated to development projects which will have significant impact on people’s lives.”

The economics graduate from the Ahmadu Bello University, and Lagos-based businessman, in his speech added: “I seek to achieve this goal by reorganising the institutions of government

to make them more compact, efficient and market friendly and motivate them to deliver superior performance.

“Vigorous action will be taken to create a climate conducive to a friendly business environment by implementing bold reforms aimed at boosting investor confidence, expand the frontiers of privatization, deregulation and liberalisation, significantly reduce the cost of doing business and implement measures to engender the vast expansion of small and medium scale businesses to take their rightful place as major generators of national output and employment.”

On the security challenges facing the country, Hayatu-Deen, who frowned at the burning issue of zoning and the agitation of power shift, promised to make national security a matter of central concern.

He said institutions of government along with other relevant stakeholders from across the spectrum of the society would be fully mobilised to bring the situation under control, as vigorous action will be taken to deal with the root causes which he noted are mainly economic in nature.

He said: “We need an energetic and honest approach to heal the deep wounds that afflict the country by leveraging confidence building measures which engender trust through the daily actions and examples of the leadership in practicing the virtues of inclusiveness, fairness and equity.”

Court Has Restricted EFCC from Arresting, Further Inviting Our Lawyer, Says Innoson Innoson Nigeria Limited has alleged the interference of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in its ongoing legal tussle with Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank).

In a statement by the Head of Corporate Communications and Affairs, Innoson Group, Cornel Osigwe, the auto manufacturing company was concerned about the interference of the EFCC, alleging that the agency was pursuing the interest of the bank.

It stated that in January, the EFCC invited Prof. J. N. McCarthy Mbadugha, counsel to Innoson to an interview on February 1, which he honoured.

“Consequently, following, an ex

parte application at the Federal High Court Abuja by Chief Mike Ozekhome praying the court for an ex-parte Order of Injunction restraining the EFCC from inviting, arresting or detaining or keeping in its custody the counsel to Innoson Nigeria Ltd, Prof J. N. Mbadugha, in relation to the frivolous allegations which he knows nothing about pending the hearing and determination of the substantive originating motion.

“The Federal High Court granted the application and ordered that status quo ante bellum as at 7th February 2022 be maintained until the determination of the originating motion.

“The motive behind the renewed

interest by the EFCC to launch an investigation in a matter already decided by the courts can only be explained by GTB. This is not the first time that EFCC has chosen to take sides with GTB and allowed itself to be inveigled into matters that are not matters of crime for reasons best known to them in an issue EFCC should stand as an unbiased umpire.

“EFCC is a federal government agency created by law to fight against financial crimes and provide law and order in the business environment based on objective principles.

“It is unheard of that counsel who has filed processes to put forth the position of his client

as it was related to him in his instruction should thereafter be quizzed on a matter that is not his personal matter and in which he had acted on purely in his professional capacity.

“It is obvious that the aim of EFCC is to muzzle the mouth of Innoson’s counsel. This time, EFCC has taken the side of subjectivity and dabbled into a frivolous matter thereby wasting public and tax payers’ funds.”

According to the statement, the counter affidavit the EFCC was presently investigating was filed in the Federal High Court, Ibadan Division in the matter between Innoson Nigeria Limited and Nigerian Customs Service Board.

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COURTESY VISIT BY WESTERN NAVAL COMMAND...

L-R: Western Naval Command Information Officer, Commander Edward Yeibo; Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy, Rear Admiral Yakubu Wambai; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Command Admin Officer, Commodore Basset Duke and the Commandant of the Nigerian Navy Secondary School, Abeokuta, Commander Jacinta Asetubobe after a courtesy visit by the Naval chiefs on the Governor at the Governor's office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta… yesterday

Atiku: Nigeria will Be Doomed If It Fails to Get it Right in 2023 Says PDP’s choice of candidate will determine her victory Chuks Okocha in Abuja Former Vice President and 2019 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, yesterday, said the 2023 general election offered Nigeria the last opportunity to get it right, else, the nation would be doomed for good.

The presidential hopeful, who also noted that the candidate the party presents at the 2023 general election would determine its victory at the polls, however, declared that he has the mental and physical energy to salvage Nigeria.

"I have the mental and physical energy to serve to the fullest.

Above all, it is my passion for the

progress of this country that drives my quest for the Presidency of this country. This is the last chance for this country to get it right. Any failure to elect the right leaders now means Nigeria is doomed.

That is why this election is not for us or our personal interest, it is about salvaging the country and I want to seek your support to

Strike: PCC Mediates in NANS, ASUU’s Rift

Ogun Chief of Staff advises universities’ union to change style

James Sowole in Abeokuta and Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti Disturbed by the lingering national strike embarked on by university lecturers, the Public Complaints Commission (PCC), has held a truce meeting with the leaderships of the National association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), for timeous resolution of the crisis.

Also, the Chief of Staff to the Ogun State Governor, Alhaji Shuaibu Salisu, yesterday, advised ASUU to change its strategy towards addressing funding and other issues in public schools in Nigeria.

However, the ASUU Chairman, Federal University, Oye Ekiti, Dr. Gabriel Omonijo and his counterpart in the Ekiti State University, Dr. Kayode Arogundade, represented the union at the parley, while the students were led by the Chairman, NANS/JCC, Ekiti axis, Com. Felix Olanrewaju.

At the peace meeting held in Ado Ekiti, the PCC Commissioner, Ekiti State office, Mr. Kayode Bamisile, said every right thinking Nigerian must be disturbed by the lingering strike in the universities and the attendant crises.

Bamisile said PCC waded into the matter as a federal government's agency seeking to end the feud for students to return to their campuses, couped with complaints being received from the public over blockage of AdoIworoko-Ifaki road by students, causing economic damage to the state.

Having listened to the two unions, the PCC boss said: "I love the way you have conducted yourselves. I will take your positions to our Chief Commissioner in Abuja for onward transmission to the Minister of Education, because part of our administrative duties is peaceful resolution of industrial disputes.

"We are all worried with the current trend, where all campuses are under lock and key. Our

university system must be strong to enjoy global patronage. I am optimistic that our intervention will yield good result."

Earlier, NANS/JCC leader, Olanrewaju, said as much as the students were angry with federal Government for reneging on its promises to academic staff, ASUU's position on the closure of schools was not the best option, saying this signposted insensitivity and wickedness.

"ASUU and FG must come together and settle this as matured and scholarly individuals, that is our unyielding position. Nigeria can't be building its future leaders this way. If they continue with this strike, it means we have no future.

"We are ready to be on the streets until the right things are done. The ASUU ought to be seat of intellect and builders of intellectuals. Why should the same people keep all students at home?

No, we disagree with this. Let them know that the coming protest will be worse than ENDSARS".

Expressing disgust at the ways ASUU's members were being treated, FUOYE's chairperson, Dr. Omonijo, said it was worrisome that the salary structures operational in universities was approved in 2009, adding that the highest paid professor in Nigeria earned N508,000.

"Regrettably, ASUU is one of the least paid workers in Nigeria.

Our universities in term of infrastructure are nothing but relics and we have made it clear that our universities must not die the way our primary and secondary schools died. Hardly could you see any parent now sending his wards to public schools.

"The issue is very simple: the FG must listen to us. They must fulfill the agreements reached with us on funding of universities, autonomy, the issue of IPPIS and our general welfare to stop brain drain and the killing of our educational system."

Salisu, Ogun State’s Chief of Staff, who spoke at a news conference, organised by the Old Students of Okeona Grammar

School (OGSOSA), to herald 60th Anniversary of Okeona Grammar School, Abeokuta, Ogun State, said stakeholders have to collaborate on how to evolve policies to address challenges in the education sector and particularly in government owned universities.

Salisu, who is also an old student of Okeona Grammar School, said old students of the school, had executed a number of projects to address infrastructural problem in his alma mater.

help me do that.

"Nigerians are in desperate need of us and that is why we have to offer them the best. And this time, more than ever before, we need a leader with vast experience, who will fight for the people and president, who can bring this country together. I guarantee you that I have what it will take to be that kind of President. Therefore, I seek your support.”

According to Atiku, who spoke when he met PDP members in the House of Representatives, "This victory of our party depends on the candidate we produce at the primary elections at all levels. That is why we must choose those that can easily win at the secondary election."

He said the passion for Nigeria's progress stoked his ambition to be next president and not personal aggrandizement.

"I recognise your immense influence on our great party and my respect for you is beyond measure.

That is why I chose you to be among the first set of people that

I will be meeting to personally declare my intention to contest for the President of Nigeria in 2023.

"Therefore, I humbly present myself to you and seek your support to win our party's Presidential ticket. Nigeria is in trying times with the increase in poverty, joblessness, insecurity, inflation, economic recession and serious division.

There’s never been a time,when Nigeria needed credible leadership than now,” Atiku noted.

The Waziri Adamawa also affirmed that, "The PDP is in a better position to offer Nigerians that desirable and competent leadership," adding that, "I have experience at the highest and lowest levels. As the Vice President of Nigeria, I ensure many progressive and national transformations and constitutional law. As a businessman, I have solved grassroots problems and provided jobs for thousands of people.”

In his remarks, House of Representatives Minority leader, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, called for unity among PDP stakeholders

to wrest power from the APC. He said, "We do not doubt that you have the mental and physical capacity needed to drive PDP to win the election. But what we have always said is that we are not happy with the way and manners we are not trying to unite ourselves.

What is important is that we must unite ourselves to take over from APC led government.

"APC came with all manners of lies. They came that they will turn one naira to one dollar; they came that they will give us quality education; they came that they will guarantee the security of lives and property; they came that they will write off all our debts. But, today, they are trying to mortgage our country with so many loans.

The hope for Nigeria in 2023 and beyond is in the PDP. And I believe we can make it happen,” he stated.

Consequently, the PDP members in the House, unanimously urged and encouraged the former Vice President to run and contest for the 2023 presidential election.

Sanwo-Olu: For His Unblemished Service in God’s Kingdom, Adeboye a Role Model to Many He’s a chosen vessel, says Fayemi Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said the unblemished service of the General Overseer of Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, for many years, has made him a role model to many people.

Sanwo-Olu, who said this while congratulating the man of God on his 80th birthday, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, further described the renowned man of God as an epitome of honesty, dedication and service, whose unblemished records of service in God’s kingdom, over the course of several decades, has made him a role model to many.

Also, the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, while congratulating Adeboye, on his 80th birthday, said he was a vessel chose by God. However, the Lagos Governor said Adeboye, through diligence and utmost obedience to the Lord, has built one of the largest spiritual institutions, anywhere in the world and raised millions of committed followers of Jesus Christ.

“Sir, you have been a blessing, not just to the Redeemed Christian

Church of God (RCCG), but also to us in Lagos State. Your unceasing prayers for us and your wise counsel over the years have contributed in no small measure, to the phenomenal progress our state, has continued to witness. We will forever be grateful. We cannot also ever forget your commitment to the Lagos State Annual Thanksgiving Service since the year 2000.

“Because of your work, and of the name and legacy of the RCCG, the gospel has touched the very ends of the earth, in line with the Great Commission. In addition, your devoted service in God’s Vineyard has helped put Nigeria in the global spotlight, as a land of spiritual exploits and greatness. Yet, amidst all these wonderful accomplishments, you have remained as simple and humble as ever, never seeking the limelight or personal glory.

“As you celebrate your 80th birthday, it is our prayer that the Almighty God will grant you more grace and strength to continue to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, minister to the poor and the broken, and proclaim liberty to the captives.

I pray that the Almighty God will continue to crown you with good health to enable you render more service to His kingdom and you will continue to enjoy His manifold blessings and everlasting goodness.

Amen. Happy Birthday, Sir,” the Governor said.

Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has congratulated the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, on his 80th birthday.

On his part, Fayemi, also in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, said the eminent cleric had enjoyed God's extraordinary grace in entering the club of octogenarians in good health and excellent spirit.

He described Pastor Adeboye as a role model to many and a man, who exuded transparent humility in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ whom he imitated.

The Ekiti governor noted that Adeboye has played prominent roles in revealing the mind of God to the people from time to time, emphasising the integrity of the word of God and interceding

for his country and nations of the world.

Further describing Adeboye as a global citizen, the governor said the impact of the clergyman's ministry was felt across the globe as a respected voice in the Christendom and a general in God's end time army.

Fayemi said the RCCG General Overseer has always offered his counsel to leaders at different levels and has a unique way of speaking truth to power when necessary.

He added that Adeboye's life has been a blessing to not only his church members but all and sundry as his sermons and prayers had given hope to the hopeless and provided refuge for millions.

While praying God to grant him long life, sound health, more fruitfulness in the ministry and renewal of strength to do more exploits in the vineyard of God, Fayemi stated: "On behalf of my wife, Bisi, the Government and good people of Ekiti State, we say a happy birthday to Daddy G.O and pray that God continues to bless his ministry and renewal his strength like that of the eagle."

THURSDAY MARCH 3, 2022˾ T H I S D AY

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200 Gunmen Neutralised as Niger SSG’s Village is Invaded Laleye Dipo in Minna No fewer than 200 gunmen have been neutralised across Niger state in the last 72 hours the state government announced in Minna yesterday. This was just as the village of the Secretary to the Government of Niger State Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim Matane was invaded by some gunmen.

The Commissioner for Local Government and Internal Security, Mr. Emmanuel Umar, said not less than 100 motorcycles were recovered from the bandits while a number of rustled cattle were also recovered.

Umar told newsmen that those killed belonged to three notorious groups led by Yellow Janbros, Katchala Aliyu and Bello Tijur that have continued to terrorise parts of the state.

He, however, said that two security agents lost their lives during the battle with the gunmen at different location.

According to him, the success recorded was as a result of “new strategies adopted in the fight against the terrorists.

“The state government is now fully prepared for the terrorists, our new strategies is beginning to yield results, every terrorist will henceforth pay for his action in the state.”

Asked about a video circulating in the state which shows scores of bandits were neutralised in the Niger South senatorial zone last weekend, Umar declined comment but said credit should go to some communities for the success so

far recorded in the fight against the gunmen.

“I salute our communities for standing firm to defend their land” and also commend the security agents for their resilience in the fight against the terrorists, even though some of them have

paid the supreme sacrifice.”

Meanwhile, Matane village in the Mashegu local government area of the state was raided by the bandits late on Tuesday.

The gunmen in their numbers set houses and vehicles ablaze and disappeared with several

household goods and agricultural produce.

It was not known if the property of the SSG or his relations were affected in the raid by the bandits.

The State Commissioner for Local Government and

Internal Security Mr. Emmanuel Umar confirmed the incident in a telephone interview saying that” A number of houses, shops and valuables were burnt by the bandits in Matane, Mashegu local government of Niger State.”

CREATIVE INDUSTRY GROUP VISITS ARISE NEWS…

L-R: Director of Projects, Creative Industry Group (CIG), Ms. Obukome Ibru; Director, Engagement and Guest Liaison, ARISE News Channel, Mr. Joseph Ushigiale; President, CIG, Mr. Felix Duke; Deputy Managing Director, ARISE News Channel, Mr. Emmanuel Efeni; Sectorial Head, CIG, Lady Capriz Duke, and Public Relations Officer, CIG, Mr. Sam Uche Anyamele, during a courtesy visit to ARISE News Channel by the members of CIG in Ikoyi, Lagos… yesterday ETOP UKUTT

Printers Commend Buhari Dikio Seeks Stronger Partnership with on Law Backing Card Readers, Military to Empower Ex-agitators the Naval Shipyard Limited in to provide a new approach to the capacity through knowledge and Electronic Transmission of Results OlusegunSamuel Port Harcourt, Rivers State. training and empowerment of skill transfer which creates the Yakubu on the epic occasion Oluchi Chibuzor The Chartered Institute of Professional Printers of Nigeria ( CIPPON) has hailed the unprecedented move of President Muhammadu Buhari in upholding the tenets of democracy by assenting to the legislative backing of electronic card readers and the electronic transmission of results.

According to CIPPON, this marks a major evolution and a game changer in the nation’s electioneering process.

In the same vein, the institute, established by Act 24 of 2007 and charged with the duty of controlling, managing and administration of printing and related matters in Nigeria, also congratulated the INEC chairman Professor Mahmoud

of the signing , “and expects nothing less than a very credible election.”

In a statement jointly signed by the President, Malomo Olugbemi and the Secretary, Akin Oduwole, of the CIPPON, said: “Once upon a time, the success of our election depended solely on the integrity of the ballot paper , that’s why there was escalation of ballot paper snatching and other ballot paper related election crime.

“However, with the president’s assent to the amended electoral act , the legalisation of the card reader has taken away a lot of pressure from the ballot paper , such that ballot paper snatching is now confined to the dustbin of history.

Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Colonel Milland Dixon Dikio (rtd), has called for a stronger relationship with the military to strengthen the momentum of the scheme.

Dikio spoke when he led senior officials of PAP to visit the Nigerian Naval Engineering College, in Sapele, Delta State and

Dikio, in a statement yesterday,said PAP would build on such partnership to further reposition the programme, which he said was going through a lot of transformation.

He explained that as an institution, the military has a vital role to play in the newlyintroduced Train, Employ and Mentor (TEM) scheme, designed

ex-agitators.

He said apart from specialised maritime and engineering courses, the ex-agitators would also be exposed to military discipline and precision.

He said: “I know the military has a lot of highly installed capacity and as much as possible, those of us looking on the outside looking in want to be able to tap into the

bridge that enhances the civilmilitary relationship in our society.

“On the substance of it, the core of the ex-agitators are largely from the riverine communities and so the current management of PAP is of the thought process that they have inherent skills and if we can convert that energy positively, they will contribute to our dominance of the maritime economy.

Lawmakers to Probe Status of Stolen Nigerian Artefacts Udora Orizu in Abuja

The House of Representatives has resolved to constitute an adhoc committee to liaise with relevant stakeholders to ascertain the current status of stolen Nigerian Artefacts from the country and report back within 12 weeks for further legislative action.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion titled, ‘Call

for Investigation to Ascertain the Status of Returned Artifacts in Nigeria,’ sponsored by Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka at the plenary yesterday.

Moving the motion, Isiaka noted that after several years, most countries are gradually returning artifacts and artworks looted from Nigeria during the colonial era, which have been on display in museums across

the world.

He recalled the role of the National Assembly through a motion on Wednesday, December 7, 2016 calling for an investigation of Nigeria’s lost artifacts for which an Ad-hoc Committee was constituted to ensure the return of those artifacts.

He believes that with the gradual return of the masterpieces, there is a need to

acknowledge the role played by the House of Representatives on the historical outcome of their efforts.

Also at the plenary, the lawmakers adopting a motion sponsored by Hon. Dachung Bagos, mandated its committees on Health Institutions to investigate the cause of the fire outbreak at Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH).

to the monarchs is in recognition of the immense contribution and laudable achievements of the member, Federal House of Representatives, representing Akoko North East/North West Federal Constituency.

Speaking after a meeting of the Council of the traditional held at the Olukare’s palace in Ikare Akoko, the over 40 traditional rulers, attributed their position to not only Tunji-Ojo’s credentials, but his impressive

transformational performance in the provision of dividends of democracy in last three years.

In a communiqué issued at the event, they said: “After careful discussions and considerations, the Traditional Rulers in Akoko North East Local Government and Akoko North West Local Government have jointly resolved to expressly give our approval to the reelection bid in the forthcoming 2023 election of our son, Rep. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo

to represent our people at the Federal House of Representatives.

“After giving considerable thoughts, we have decided to endorse the political credentials of our dear son, Rep. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, which is widely treated and strongly backed by our people and far beyond our constituency.

We have enormous faith in our reckoning and are absolutely confident about his success at the polls and subsequent performance.

Kwara Maintains Lead on Performance Ranking Ondo Monarchs Endorse Re-election of Tunji-Ojo as House Member sectors.

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin Kwara State has again been ranked number one on the table of developmental strides recorded for January 2022 in states governed by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

This was contained in a statement issued from the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), addressed to the state government and signed by the Director of Planning and Strategy at the PGF Folohunsho Aluko, a copy of which was made available to journalists in Ilorin yesterday.

The statement said: “Kwara was winning the laurels for the fourth time. The state shared the number one position with Lagos and Kaduna which posted the same points across various sectors examined for the month”.

The statement added: “Kwara topped the table of excellent performances alongside Kaduna and Lagos states. The three states recorded 16 developmental strides apiece across various

“Kwara State had similarly topped the Forum’s achievements’ table for September, 2020; March, 2021; and November 2021.

“The entries for this edition witnessed more improvements as regards developmental strides collated from the Forum states in (January) 2022”.

The forum added: “There is an all-round increase in the pattern of initiatives introduced by the states with Kaduna, Kwara and Lagos states recording most initiatives for this month having implemented sixteen (16) developmental strides each.”

“The ranking parameters cut across Economic Development; Education, Science and Technology; Health and Nutrition; Agric and Rural Development; Infrastructure; Job Creation; Empowerment and Innovation; Labour and Capacity Building; Welfare and Rehabilitation; and Art, Tourism and Culture”.

Fidelis David in Akure

The re-election bid of the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission, (NDDC), Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, received a boost yesterday as the Council of Traditional Rulers in Akoko North East/ Akoko North West Federal Constituency of Ondo State, has endorsed him for second term.

The endorsement, according

INEC Registers New 113,255 Voters, Creates 960 Polling Units in Kogi Apam stated that the INEC has increased to 1,759,605 those who have registered, Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja

Ahead of 2023 general elections,the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has disclosed that it has registered additional 113,255 new voters and created new 960 polling units in kogi state.

The State Resident Electoral Commissioner(REC) Professor James Apam, made this known while speaking at a press conference in Lokoja yesterday.

Registration officers have been given a list of both the old and new units, instructing them to make it available to the eligible voters who may want to transfer or register afresh.

The REC stated that with the new created polling units ,the state now has a total of 3,508 poling units compared with the previous 2,548.

According to him, the new registered voters in the state

from 1,646,350 ,with the fresh additional registered voters.

“In this exercise, we converted the previous voting points to full- fledged polling units and removed them to places that were underserved, thus providing a greater and better access to voters. The previous voting points existed where we had more than 750 registered voters”, REC said.

He therefore, admonished

including prospective voters to either transfer their voting points to the newly created units or register there ,”depending on how close they are to them.”

Apam added that the electoral officers have been charged to visit Registration Areas( RAs) to register new voters and assist newly registered voters to transfer their voting points, including updating their personal information to that effect.

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THURSDAY MARCH 3, 2022 ˾ T H I S D AY

NEWSXTRA

Pray for Lawmakers Who Voted against Women Bills, Tallen Urges Nigerians

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

Women Affairs Minister, Pauline Tallen, has called on Nigerians to pray for National Assembly members who rejected five bills that sought extra legislative seats for women and affirmative action at both chambers of the legislative arm on Tuesday.

The federal lawmakers had voted against the bills that sought to promote more opportunities for women in political parties, governance and the society at large.

The Assembly denied citizenship to a foreign-born husband of a Nigerian woman (while it allows Nigerian men’s foreign-born wives to be awarded automatic citizenship); they also denied Nigerian women indigeneship through marriage.

Thirty-five per cent appointed positions for women and settling for 20 per cent was also denied.

Other bills rejected included: the bill providing for affirmative action for women in political parties’ administration and the one that seeks to create special seats for women in the national and state assemblies.

Reacting to the rejection of the bills, Tallen, who spoke with newsmen after the weekly virtual meeting of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) at the

State House, Abuja, yesterday, described the rejection of the proposed legislations as, “show of shame” and promised to mobilise Nigerian women to strategise and

make a point on the forthcoming 2023 general elections.

“I urge all Nigerians to help us pray for the men that killed this bill yesterday in the National

Assembly.

“It clearly shows that the men that were against the bill don’t have any respect for women, it’s clear. But I am not

generalising, not all the men in the National Assembly. We have the figures - 72 men in the House of representative voted in support of the bill.”

BUILDING FUTURE CHIEF EXECUTIVES…

L-R:Judge1,JohnsonAbbaly;Judge2,HussainaIshayaAudu;PublicRelationsLead,9mobile,ChinezeAmanfo;Winnerofthe9mobileFutureCEOInitiativeSpeakingcompetition, Okorie Jane-Frances of the Lagos State Civil Service Senior College, Igbogbo; Co-Curricular Services, Lagos State Ministry of Education, Mrs. Sosanya Olubunmi; Judge 3, Temitope Adeyemi; Manager, Events and Sponsorship, 9mobile, Ufuoma Dogun, during the grand finale of the 9mobile Future CEO Initiative held in Lagos…recently

A’Ibom to Sanction Commission for Refugees, NITDA Partner to Train 10,000 Persons Warring Communities Okon Bassey inUyo The Akwa Ibom State Government has warned that warring communities in the state would now receive severe sanction.

The state government said that government would no longer provide relief materials and support to individuals and communities who willingly take up arms against each other.

However, it said that it would continue to identify with the plight of those genuinely affected by natural disasters.The Deputy Governor of the Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Moses Ekpo,

made the position of government known at the presentation of relief assistance to those affected by recent humanitarian crisis in Enwang and fire disaster at Ibaka fishing community, both in Mbo Local Government Area of the state.

Ekpo, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Mr. Nkopuruk Ekaiko, said that while govern-ment deeply sympathised with the families of victims of the disaster, a clear warning must be sent out to the effect that anyone caught instigating communal crises will henceforth be treated as a criminal.

2023: Amaechi More Qualified for Presidency, Says Rivers APC Chieftain Blessing Ibunge inPortHarcourt

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Dr. Sokonte Davies, has described the Minister of Transportation, Mr. Chibuike Amaechi as more qualified to run for presidency position in the 2023 general elections.

Dr. Davies, who is a former representative of Degema/Bonny Federal Constituency, believe that if given the opportunity, the immediate past Rivers State Governor will rebrand the face of the nation.

He stated that as a current minister, Amaechi has brought so

much development and innovation in the transportation ministry.

Speaking with THISDAY in Port Harcourt, Davies who is also a former Caretaker Committee Chairman of APC in Rivers, stressed the need for the presidency to be zoned to the South.

He said: “I think that APC is a listening party. APC is in sync with what the people are thinking.

APC has said, in the processes of causing equity, unity, oneness and togetherness, offices under its government that are held in the South should go to the North, and those ones held in the North should go to the South.

Lagos Sensitises Stakeholders on New Resident ID Card The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA), has commenced the awareness campaign on the new Lagos Resident ID card in different divisions of the state.

Speaking at the first two divisions visited-Epe and Ikorodu-in her welcome address, the General Manager, Ibilola Kasunmu, said the sensitisation programme was aimed at educating and sensitising residents of these divisions, what the Lagos ID is about, why it is important

and how they could key into the initiative and be a part of the plan.

Furthermore, she described it as a smart card with multiple security features and applications, as she appealed to residents in these divisions to kick off their registration by visiting the LASRRA website: www.lagosresidents.gov.ng and proceed to any LASRRA Registration Center nearest to them for biometrics capturing to complete the process for the new LAG ID card, stressing that registration is absolutely free.

The innovations and pragmatic thinking of the Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Person (IDPs), Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim has continue to manifest as her Go-Digital program commenced training of 10,000 persons of Concerns in Abuja in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

The Go- Digital Programme, which an innovative and pragmatic thinking of the

Federal Commissioner, National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Person(NCFRMI), Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has commenced information communication technology (ICT)capacity building for 10,000 persons in Abuja.

The training, according to the commissioner, is in partnership with National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).

She explained that the training has commenced in batches with

200 participants as pioneers and electronic tab devices given to each of the graduands to hone their skills in ICT. Sulaiman-Ibrahim noted in the same vein, the NCFRMI Project Skill-up has also commenced training of 50 persons in Jabi Abuja which started on 16th February and would climax on March 5, 2022.

“The first phase of Project Skill-up is catering for 50 persons of concerns and are being trained in shoe making, welding, tailoring, catering,

tiling, videography, graphics and website design, carpentry, hairdressing and barbing, with starter kits to be given to them after graduation,” she said.

The commissioner added that the new normal is not to encourage IDPs to remain in the camps while they enjoy mundane things but a sustainable and duration solutions which is aimed at teaching them skills that would eventually enable them to cater for themselves and their dependents.

Anti-open Grazing Law: Bayelsa to Set Up Enforcement Teams in LGAs Olusegun Samuel

Following recent clashes between herdsmen and farmers in parts of Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, the state government on Tuesday directed the chairmen of the eight local government councils to immediately set up sub-committees to work with its Anti-Open Grazing Law Implementation Committee to check the activities of errant

herdsmen in the state.

The State Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, gave the directive during a meeting with a delegation of women from Otuasega community, top security officers and other stakeholders in Government House, Yenagoa.

Recall that women blocked major roads on Monday to protest unrestrained destructions of their farms and crops by

Fulani herdsmen.

A statement by the Media Aide to the Deputy Governor, Mr. Doubara Atasi, quoted him as saying that the meeting was necessitated by recent cases of herdsmen violation of the antiopen grazing law at Otuasega in Ogbia council area and other parts of the state.

Senator Ewhrudjakpo urged the various councils to constitute the sub-committees within one

week as part of proactive steps necessary to checkmate the encroachment of farmlands and destruction of crops by herdsmen.

He explained that the subcommittees would work under the close supervision of the State Anti-open Grazing Law Implementation Committee, headed by the Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dr. David Alagoa.

Katsina NULGE Demands Local Government Autonomy Francis Sardauna in Katsina The Katsina State chapter of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), has admonished the State House of Assembly and government to grant full autonomy for local governments in the state.

The union also appealed to the state government to end the stagnation of local government workers by allowing them to

progress to Level 16 as is obtainable in other states of the federation.

Addressing journalists in Katsina yesterday, the State NULGE President, Nasiru Wada Mai’Adua, said the only way to ensure an inclusive government for all was to ensure the autonomy of the government that is closer to the grassroots.

He said: “We are calling on the state legislature to help us and give the local governments autonomous

power for the local governments to be developed because without the autonomy of the local governments there will be nothing to be achieved in the grassroot”.

He also demanded the immediate scrapping of the various State’s Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) for local government elections in the country to be transparent and credible.

According to him, the mandate

of conducting local government council elections should be given to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for credible local governments polls to thrive in the country.

The state NULGE president explained that the elections conducted by SIECs into the councils in most states of the federation were mere appointments and not democratic elections as provided for by the constitution.

Work Begins on 37km Electrification Project in Edo Adibe Emenyonu in Benincity

Work yesterday commenced on the 37.4 km electrification of Inikorogha, an Ijaw enclave in Ovia South West Local Government Area of Edo State.

The electrification project, which started with the laying of concrete poles for a 33KV line from Ufo community to

Inikorogha, is being facilitated by the member, representing Ovia federal constituency in the National Assembly, Mr. Dennis Idahosa.

Speaking during the project commencement, Idahosa said the electrification is part of his over 68 constituency project (ongoing and completed) meant to give the people a new lease of life, noting that

this is the first time the ijaw community in the state would be connected to the national grid having relied on generating sets for many years.

“It was my promise to them during the political campaign, and I am happy that it is coming to fruition.

“I was made to understand that the last generating set used by the community, which

was donated to them by the Anthony Oyeregbulem-led military administration, broke down over 25 years ago, and those who can afford it have had to rely on personal generators ever since.

“When completed, it will improve the economy life and standard of living of the people and also enhance security in the area.

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NEWSEXTRA

Lawmakers Task IG, Service Chiefs to Rescue Anambra Kidnapped Victims Udora Orizu in Abuja The House of Representatives has called on the Inspector General of Police (IG), Usman Alkali Baba; Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen. Farouk Yahaya; Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Isiaka Amao, and other security agencies to as a matter of urgency deploy their personnel to intensify raid and comb the entire Lilu, Azia, Orsumoghu, and Mbosi communities in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State and dislodge camps of kidnapped victims and rescue them.

The resolution of the lawmakers was sequel to the adoption of a motion of urgent national important titled: ‘Need to address the spate of insecurity and abduction of innocent citizens, and for immediate release of kidnapped victims, including a Rotarian, Mr. Steady Onome Idisi, and Emmanuel Ifie’, sponsored by Hon. Ben Rollands Igbakpa at the plenary yesterday.

Moving the motion, Igbakpa

noted the increasing spate of kidnapping and banditry, which he said has rendered the country inhabitable for both citizens and

The House of Representatives at the plenary, yesterday passed for second reading a Bill seeking to repeal the Examination Malpractices Act of 2004 to expand offences relating to punishment for exam malpractices.

The proposed legislation titled, “a Bill for an Act to Repeal the Examination Malpractices Act, Cap. E15, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 and Enact the Examination Malpractices Bill

A fatal motor accident involving a Hummer bus and a tipper has claimed three lives along Port Harcourt-Aba express way, in Rivers State.

THISDAY learned that the accident, which occurred yesterday morning, happened immediately after Intel’s company.

It was gathered that the Hummer bus, carrying six passengers collided with a tipper loaded with wooden planks suspected to be bad.

A source who spoke with THISDAY disclosed that the incident happened at about

to Expand Offences Relating to Examination Malpractices and Prescribe Adequate Punishment; and for Related Matters,” was sponsored by Hon. Olarewaju Ibrahim Kunle.

Also, the lawmakers passed for second reading a Bill seeking an amendment to the University Teaching Hospitals Boards Reconstitution Act of 2004 to restructure the composition of the governing Boards of tertiary health institutions, to include nurses, pharmacists and other health practitioners in headship of teaching hospitals.

6:30am.

He said: “This morning, a Hummer bus driver carrying passengers to Aba, who was on a high speed, rammed into a tipper with overlapping planks, crashing the vehicle and killing some of the passengers”.

The eyewitness, who did not disclose his name, revealed that the Police made efforts to reach the respective families through their phones.

However, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed the incident.

The Public Relations Officers of FRSC in the state, Juliana Ugo Eni, who spoke to THISDAY said three persons died in the fatal accident.

Group Applauds Dialogue Process in Conflict Resolution George Okoh In Makurdi Gender Advocacy for Justice Initiative (GAJI) with support from the Government and people of Japan, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Benue State Government yesterday organised a one-day state-level peace dialogue with community peace committees from four local government areas of the state with the aim to improve the skills of stakeholders on peace-building

Onome Idisi, the CEO of Lonestar Drilling Company Limited, and his friend, Mr. Emmanuel Ifie, were kidnapped

at Orsumoghu in Ihiala LGA of Anambra State, and their whereabouts is still not known till date.

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, F-Step Cassava Enterprise, Mrs. Seun Ogidan ; Group Managing Director, OOK Group, Mrs. Omolara Svenson; CEO, Oklan Best Ltd, Pastor Mrs. Olanrewaju Elizabeth Nwankwo, and Guest Speaker, Prof. Isaac Aiyelagbe, at a workshop by OOK Farms on redirecting the youth and women to the opportunities in agriculture in Ibadan, Oyo State…recently SUNDAY ADIGUN

Three Killed in Auto Crash in Rivers

Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

of citizens in a democratic country is sad.

He said the House is aware that on February 20, 2022,

EXPLORING AGRIBUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES…

House Passes Bill Seeking Stiffer Punishment for Exam Malpractices for Second Reading Udora Orizu in Abuja

foreigners alike.

The lawmaker said a situation where non-state actors rule over and dictate the conduct

and community security.

GAJI Interim Executive Director, Ms. Iveren Sambe, while presenting a broad overview of the dialogue, stated that the dialogue session was in furtherance of the implementation of the project titled: ‘Support for Social Stability and Security of the Conflict Affected Communities in North-Central Nigeria’, and that the session was to facilitate stakeholders to understand pathways to effective dialogue towards achieving social cohesion.

Sanusi Berates Civil Servants for Allowing

Politicians to Think for Them

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

His Royal Highness, Muhammadu Sanusi II has said Nigeria is in this current mess because civil servants allowed politicians to think for them.

Speaking at the Closing Ceremony of the AIG Public Leaders Programme Class of 2021 held yesterday, at the Conference Hall, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, the former CBN Governor, Sanusi said “the civil servants are supposed to think for the politicians.

We are in this mess because the civil servants allowed the politicians to

think for them.”

He said public servants are foremost the employees of the public and not the employees of the Head of State or politicians, stressing that past civil servants bequeathed great legacy for the civil service, and that public service is all about service and being impactful and not to make money.

Sanusi said there was nothing wrong in seeking wealth but anyone who wants money should be in the private sector rather than the public service.

The former king while illustrating

what it takes to be a civil servant, narrated the story of his father who was ready to sacrifice his career to without the tenets of civil service.

He said when the decadence of the civil service is traced in the country, everyone tend to say the Nigerian Civil Service was destroyed in the 1970s because of what was a purge and a massive retrenchment of civil servants, under the Murtala/ Obasanjo administration, and “we all blame the political leadership, the question is was the leadership entirely to blame my father was appointed Permanent Secretary.

He said his father was given a list 40 ambassadors to retire in the purge but he refused and was summoned to Dodan Barrack and was asked why he decided on the contrary when others have submitted the list of those to be sacked.

He said his father stood his ground and said it was against the civil service rule to forcefully retired anyone who has not been queried but the Head of State insisted that he should go back to bring the list of those to be sacked but my father he won’t do that unless his name top the list.

FG Reviews National School Feeding Programme Meal to N100 Per Plate Development in Africa Through of initiatives were already being two free meals for Out-Of-School Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The federal government has upwardly reviewed the National Home Grown School Feeding Programme (NHGSFP) from N70 to N100 a plate of meal per child.

The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management, Ms. Sadiya Umar Farouq, disclosed this at the commemoration of the 7th Africa School Feeding Day in Abuja with the theme “Nutrition and Human Capital

Increased Investment in Home Grown School Feeding.”

Farouq said that the increment was approved by the President Muhammadu Buhari at a time when all hands were on deck to ensure that all public primary school pupils 1-3 were enrolled in the programme in the wake of the devastation caused by the COVID-19 to the stability of millions of households in the country.

She also revealed that series

deployed to enhance effective programme delivery.

She also stated that the ministry is presently working on a policy framework for the programme and would introduce the concept of school kitchens in 60 model schools across the nation, which would serve as training and skills building centres for cooks and other vendors of the programme.

Farouq added that arrangements were also underway to provide

Children from the NHGSFP scheme as it intended to roll out the alternate school programme soon.

She thanked the Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for providing the required regulatory oversight and monitoring compliance on hygiene, food safety and meal quality standards.

Road Accidents: Lawmakers Ask FG to Establish Mobile Clinics on Highways

Udora Orizu inAbuja

Members of the House of Representatives have urged the federal government to establish and adequately equip mobile emergency clinics for road accident victims on Federal highways across the nation.

The lawmakers also urged the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC)to liaise with the Federal Ministry of Works and Housing, and States Emergency Management

Authorities to ensure that accident victims receive quick medical attention.

The resolutions were sequel to adoption of a motion sponsored

by Hon. Mallam Bukar Gana at the plenary, Wednesday.

Moving the motion, Gana noted that road traffic accidents have become a global public health concern but not enough attention is given to it in terms of public health enlightenment and

strategic policies by the government to achieve sustainable control.

He said that there are only forty-seven traffic accident clinics across Nigeria, fifteen of which are furnished but non-functional, fourteen are not furnished and non-functional, while only 18 are furnished and functional.

Making reference to a report by Nigeria Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the lawmaker said 11,363 accidents were recorded in 2016 with a total

number of 30,105 injured victims out of which 28,250 were adults, 1,855 were children, while 5,053 people lost their lives.

He expressed concerns that the deplorable state of major highways and reckless driving occasioned by over speeding, drunkenness, and total disregard of traffic rules by commuters have contributed to incessant road accidents, adding that the country requires functional clinics to prevent needless deaths.

Osun Partners UNDP, Norwegian Govt to Launch Crisis Response System Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo As part of measures to improve the security framework in Osun State, the state government has partnered the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Norwegian Government to launch a crisis ‘Early Warning and Early Response System (EWERS)’ as

well as the EWERS Situation Room.

The partnership also resulted to the training and empowerment of 200 victims of violence in the state.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony and distribution of starter packs to the trained victims of violence and the launching of EWERS, funded

by the UNDP, the Norwegian Government and the state government, the state Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola, described the partnership as an invaluable step towards consolidating on the increasing gains the state has recorded in its efforts to ensure a peaceful, productive and enabling state for lives and businesses of citizens to thrive.

Oyetola, who expressed profound appreciation to UNDP and the Norwegian Government for their thoughtfulness and kind consideration of Osun State as a host of the project, pledged his assurance that the project would complement his administration’s efforts at improving security of lives and property.

THURSDAY, ͻ˜ ͺ͸ͺͺ ˾ T H I S D AY

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THURSDAYSPORTS

Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: duro.ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

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Lewandowski Dethrones Messi as World’s Best Player

2022 Main Winter Update of the best player on FM22, down as the best player in the world But it’s even worse for Football Managers players’ to fourth. on FM22, followed by Man City Cristiano Ronaldo, who before database has dropped Argentine This change means that midfielder Kevin De Bruyne in the Main Winter Update was Lionel Messi as the best player Bayern Munich striker second and Kylian Mbappe in ranked as the seventh-best player in the world on the game.

Lewandowski is now ranked third. on FM22, but following the Messi is no longer ranked as the best player in the world on Football Manager 2022.

Sports Interactive released the Main Winter Update for Football Manager 2022 on Thursday, February 24, 2022, with players now able to load up and use an updated database (22.3.0) for their new save games.

The updated FM22 database features all of the latest winter transfers from around the world, but it also features updated player attributes and current ability levels. The FM22 Main Winter Update also introduces a Versus mode.

And following the FM22 Main Winter Update, there have been a number of current ability changes to some huge names, including the likes of Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski, and it completely changed the rankings of the best players in the world on the game.

On the new FM22 database (22.3.0), Messi’s current ability (CA) has been downgraded from 194 out of 200 to 186 out of 200, Lionel Messi...Dethroned as World Best which has seen him drop from Robert Lewandowski...World Best

release of the new update, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner is now ranked 33rd, following his current ability dropping from 182 to 167 out of 200.

Here is the definitive list of the best players in the world, according to Football Manager 2022, following the Main Winter Update.

TOP 20 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20. *21 *33

Robert Lewandowski – Bayern Munich (190/200) Kevin De Bruyne – Manchester City (187/200) Kylian Mbappe – Paris Saint-Germain (186/200) Lionel Messi – Paris Saint-Germain (186/200) Mohamed Salah – Liverpool (184/200) Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool (180/200) Karim Benzema – Real Madrid (180/200) Neymar – Paris Saint-Germain (180/200) Harry Kane – Tottenham Hotspur (179/200) Thibaut Courtois – Real Madrid (178/200) Manuel Neuer – Bayern Munich (178/200) Joshua Kimmich – Bayern Munich (178/200) Erling Haaland – Borussia Dortmund (177/200) Jan Oblak – Atletico Madrid (176/200) Sadio Mane – Liverpool (176/200) Luka Modric – Real Madrid (174/200) Marc-Andre ter Stegen – Barcelona (174/200) Alisson – Liverpool (174/200) Thomas Muller – Bayern Munich (174/200) Bernardo Silva – Manchester City (174/200) Romelu Lukaku – Chelsea (171/200) Cristiano Ronaldo – Manchester United (167/200)

More Schools for International Schools Athletics Championships

Rivers Utd Crumble Pillars in Olympic silver medalist, Agnes Osazuwa, confirms participation Kaduna to Stay Top of NPFL More schools have confirmed their participation in the inaugural edition of the International Schools Athletics Championships.

Command Secondary School Ipaja, Lagos and the Foundation Science Secondary School, Zaria are the latest to join the list of ambitious schools with great sporting programmes.

Schools from Akwa Ibom, Plateau and Edo states earlier joined schools from Lagos to confirm their participation.

Athletes are also expected from neighboring Ghana and Togo as well.

According to Sydney Olympic gold medalist and Competition Director, Enefiok Udo-Obong, the competition is unique as it brings

private and public primary and secondary schools in Nigeria and beyond together to compete over a six-day period.

“The competition also has an open event where top international athletes showcase their talent. This year’s event will have 2008 Olympic Silver Medalist, Agnes Osazuwa, compete in the women’s 100m.

The competition director stressed that all things are going on smoothly for the organisation of a great championship.

He thanked Allianz , GIG Group, MangoNET and Nirvirna for sponsoring this inaugural edition.

The competition is scheduled to hold from 14th March to the 19th March, 2022 in Lagos.

Shooting Stars hold Rangers 1-1 in Ibadan Duro Ikhazuagbe Nyima Nwagua's strike made all the difference yesterday as Rivers United defeated Kano Pillars 1-0 away from home in a midweek Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Match-day 16 fixture in Kaduna to stay on the summit.

With the win, the Pride of Rivers people remain on top of the NPFL log with 35 points from 16 matches, one point ahead of second placed Plateau United who also won 2-0 away against Lobi Stars in Makurdi.

On a hot and sunny afternoon at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna, the energetic forward took advantage of floppy play from Pillars goalkeeper Idris Ibrahim to

seal victory for Stanley Eguma's side.

Rivers United started the faster of the two sides, with a dangerous low ball from Ishaq Kayode threatening the Pillars goal as Chijioke Akuneto forced Ibrahim into action.

The hosts threatened sparingly.

Sa'idu Salisu came close to scoring from a corner, before Rabiu Ali strike was saved by Sochima Victor.

The second half brought more opportunities for the Sai Masu Gida

side than the first, with Sochima Victor forced into action to deny a powerful strike from Rabiu Ali. The key moment came in the 70th minute when former Kano Pillars forward Nyima Nwagua took advantage of the goalkeepers howler to slot home what proved to be the match winner.

Frustration grew in the ground as Salisu Yusuf's side attempted to battle their way back into the game.

RESULTS

Former Sports Journalist, Modele SarafaYusuf, Guns for Governorship Ticket On the day her former boss and mentor in sportscasting, Fabio Lanipekun clocks the landmark of 80, lady in the tube, Modele Sarafa-Yusuf, has declared her intention to run for the governorship ticket in Ogun State.

In a facebook post, the sports journalist who made her mark on the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) stated: “Dear Friends, Today, I threw my hat into the ring and formally declared my intention to run for the office of Governor of Ogun State on the platform of our great party, the All Progressives Congress.

“I made the declaration at a small gathering of market women and men in the Adire/Kampala

market, Asero, Abeokuta.

“I took the opportunity to listen to them as they talked about their needs and their expectations of the government.

“I look forward to engaging more with the people as the days go by even as I look forward to the opportunity of serving them as governor.

“We also look forward to working with all our party leaders across the divides as we prepare for the elections.

“I implore you to send positive thoughts and prayers as we embark on this journey to a more prosperous Ogun State.

“By the way, we make the best Adire in Ogun State!”

The 1996 award winner at the

Nigeria Media Merit Award was appointed as Special Adviser on Information to Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun.

In 16 years of journalism with the NTA Modele was not only a sports broadcaster, she was also a columnist for magazines, a guest writer for newspapers, a script writer for television shows and a producer of documentaries and programmes for radio and television: in fields as diverse as business, culinary, current affairs, crime, and education. She was also part of ARISE TV channel at inception.

She was Marketing Communications/Sponsorship Manager with Globacom at the inception of the company in 2003.

Despite a late spell of pressure and a couple of forced nervy moments, the back four of the Pride of Rivers consisting of Kazie Eyinnaya, Ebube Duru, Fabian Nworie and man of the match Cameroon import Dennis Ndasi stood firm in the face of waves of Pillars attacks.

Elsewhere in Ibadan, the much anticipated clash between old rivals Shooting Stars and Rangers International FC of Enugu ended 1-1.

It was the Flying Antelopes that drew the first blood on the dot of 45 minutes through Ikechukwu Eboko.

The Oluyole Warriors were however saved their blushes when Chinedu Enuademu pecked back Rangers in the 56th minute for both teams to share the points at stake.

Akwa Utd Enyimba Gombe K’Pillars Katsina Lobi Nasarawa Tornadoes Sunshine Shooting

2-0 Wikki 2-1 Remo 1-0 Abia Warriors 0-1 Rivers Utd 4-1 Dakkada 0-2 Plateau Utd 1-1 Kwara 1-1 MFM FC 3-1 Heartland 1-1 Rangers

ENGLISH FA CUP Luton 2-3 Chelsea S’thampton 3-1 West Ham Liverpool 2-1 Norwich

COUPE DE FRANCE A midfield shot from the crunch NPFL Match-day 16 clash between hosts Shooting Stars and Rangers International FC of Enugu at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan... yesterday

Nantes 2-2 Monaco

TURKISH CUP Sivasspor 1-0 F’Karagumruk

55

THURSDAY, ͻ˜ ͺ͸ͺͺ ˾ T H I S D AY

SPORTS

Swiss Billionaire Set to Buy Chelsea from Abramovic

Swiss billionaire Hansjorg Wyss has revealed that Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich is prepared to sell the club.

The 86-year-old has claimed he has been offered the chance to join a consortium with “six or seven” other investors to buy the West London club.

Wyss, who is worth a reported £4.3bn, is however only interested in buying the Blues from Abramovic in a consortium.

Abramovic has strong desire to retain ownership of the world champions, but that could prove impossible should the United Kingdom Government impose sanctions on the Russian billionaire.

“Abramovich is trying to sell all his villas in England, he also wants to get rid of Chelsea quickly,” Wyss told Blick.

“I and three other people received an offer on Tuesday to buy Chelsea from Abramovich.

“I have to wait four to five days now. Abramovich is currently asking far too much. You know, Chelsea owe him £2 billion. But Chelsea has no money. As of today, we don’t know the exact selling price.”

Chelsea players narrowly escaped losing to lower league’s Luton Town in the FA Cup. The Blues who may come under new owners shortly defeated Luton 3-2 to progress to the next round

Israel Adesanya Speaks on Fame, Freedom of Expression Paul Battison A world-class striker, an elite entertainer and an enigma on the mic - the mention of the name Israel Adesanya elicits a number of opinions from MMA fans.

But for the 32-year-old UFC middleweight champion, the reaction he would like from people when they hear his name is far more simple.

"I'd like them to smile. Like a good feeling. Yeah, I just want people to have a good memory when they hear my name," he tells BBC Sport.

Meeting Adesanya at a hotel in London for this interview, he reveals a side to his personality only those closest to him get to see.

Here he tells BBC Sport about the difficulties of being famous, why he believes in freedom of expression and why he will never fight in New Zealand again.

Adesanya, who was born in Nigeria but lives in New Zealand, says one of the most important lessons he has learned during his rise to stardom in the UFC is to protect his personal space and energy.

"Nobody writes a book on how to be famous and how to deal with it, so you have to write your own," Adesanya says.

"I've watched the pitfalls of a lot of famous athletes, actresses, actors and musicians, and seen how they have dealt with it, so I've avoided being one of those tabloid stories.

"People don't care - they just want to take your peace and your time.

"Everyone needs their peace.

I am a social butterfly, I'm extroverted when I want to

be, but there's times I need to be with my own thoughts and be at peace with myself."

Adesanya is one of the most dominant fighters in the world.

Nicknamed the Last Stylebender in reference to an anime character, he has held the middleweight title since 2019 and defended it five times, convincingly dispatching the finest talent the division has to offer.

His most recent win was a unanimous decisionover great rival Robert Whittaker.

In the aftermath of previous fights, Adesanya has revealed he suffers from bouts of depression once the initial buzz and elation

of victory dies down.

Asked if he was worried about any decline in his mental health again when he goes back to New Zealand, Adesanya insisted he was not.

"I know how to deal with those things now," he says.

"It's kind of like drinking coffee, it's a stimulant and then you have a crash.

"I was surrounded by so much stimulation that when I went home and was eventually by myself, for about two weeks, I was really depressed and I was like 'what's this about?'

"It was all these negative feelings and self-talk. But I did therapy and that helped. One

tool is having the right people around me who keep it real with me, that's paramount."

"It's also knowing this is just temporary and this will pass, and knowing who I am."

Ever since his UFC debut in 2018 Adesanya has stood out from other fighters on the roster.

He is as sharp on the microphone as he is with his striking, illustrated by the mental and physical dismantling of Paulo Costa in their fight in 2020 - a performance Adesanya rates as his best in the UFC. He is as flamboyant inside the octagon as he is out of it, his mastery of kickboxing mirrored by his desire to express himself

Israel Adesanya was born in Nigeria before moving with his parents to New Zealand aged 10 years. Now, he’s dreaming coming home to show his stuff

in everyday life.

Before his fight against Whittaker last month, Adesanya revealed another side to his personality by painting his nails - a trait he encourages other people to embrace.

"I implore you to just do you - it (doesn't matter) what anyone thinks," he says.

"If someone is pressed with you because you paint your nails, that says more about them than it does about you.

"It's not hurting anyone, disrespecting anyone, it's just expressing yourself. Don't let people rule how you wanna live your life.

"What you see is always the real me. People when they meet me say 'man, you're a lot different to what you're like on TV' and I'm like 'well, you're not trying to fight me!'"

Adesanya says his openmindedness comes from growing up with strict parents.

"I hate being controlled, I hate being told what to do, being manipulated and people trying to tell me how to live my life," he says.

"I like freedom of thought, freedom of expression, and I guess that's where my rebellious streak comes from."

Adesanya's rebellious streak and fierce loyalty to those close to him was evident when he criticised New Zealand's governing bodies in September.

Angered at how his team-mate Dan Hooker had been treated by authorities during lockdown, Adesanya said he would never fight in New Zealand again.

"They were giving the netball teams and the All Blacks special privileges to train, so we were like 'oh cool, we'll train in our facility', but then the police came and said 'no you can't do that',"

he explains.

"Dan got contacted by the police over a dozen times and they said 'if we catch you at the gym again, we're going to arrest you'.

"So I was like 'you don't need me - you have rugby, netball you'll never see millions of tax revenue from my fights', that was my way of protesting."

Adesanya claims Hooker's treatment by the governing bodies reflects how they view MMA compared to other sports in the country.

"If they did it to me (threatened to arrest) I had a built-in excuse that I'm too brash or too loudmouth or whatever.

"But when they did that to Dan I realised it wasn't even about me anymore - it's about our sport.

"It's these old heads who prioritise traditional sports and I'm like 'what is tradition?'

Tradition is what you make it."

After turning his back on New Zealand, Adesanya has set his sights on taking the UFC to Africa.

Despite currently boasting three African-born champions in Adesanya, Kamaru Usman and Francis Ngannou, the series has never held an event on the continent.

"Fighting in Africa is a dream we have which is going to be actualised. Somehow by hook or by crook, we'll make it happen," Adesanya says.

"Only last night I saw a mural of me being painted on a wall in some village in Nigeria. The fact someone took their time out to paint a big mural, on a wall in some village is just amazing to me.

"For them to want to express art like that, makes me feel all the good feelings and humbled."

Thursday, March 3, 2022

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MISSILE

Nyesom Wike to Rivers People

“Now that we have done virtually everything we have promised; this is now the time to play politics of stomach infrastructure. People think when you are in government, from the first day, you should be sharing money. I said, I won’t do that. I have to work for the people of the State. Now that we have worked, the remaining period will be to feed your stomach”—Rivers Governor, addressing people of his state on his next agenda

OLUSEGUNADENIYI THE VERDICT

olusegun.adeniyi@thisdaylive.com

Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye at 80 W

hen the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye marked his 60th birthday exactly 20 years ago, a thanksgiving service was held for him at the Redemption Camp on a Sunday afternoon. As one of the ushers detailed to man the entrance to the marquee tent that hosted the event, I was caught in an interesting drama in which the then Cross River State Governor, Mr Donald Duke and a senior pastor of the Church played ‘supporting’ roles. While I keep that tale for another day, what I find particularly remarkable is what Redemption Camp has been turned into within a period of 20 years. It reflects what one visionary man can accomplish and a testimony to committed leadership.

But the prophecy that turned a forest into a sprawling city is no more than a footnote in the remarkable story of Pastor Adeboye.

Interestingly, in his numerous sermons, Pastor Adeboye has shared several insights about his life and ministry. And since he has been in the public eye for more than four decades without any hint of scandal around him, there is hardly anything new to say about his humility, integrity, and strength

Pastor Adeboye of character to which Nigerians from all walks of life attest.

It is noteworthy that Pastor Adeboye has

often used the polygamous family setting under which he was brought up to illustrate the essence of his faith. While his mother was not the first among his father’s wives, the God (of mercy) who bypassed Absalom and siblings before elevating Solomon to the throne of David (despite the circumstances of how his mother got to the palace), is the same One Pastor Adeboye preaches. And he uses his own story to encourage and inspire.

A doctorate degree holder in mathematics, Pastor Adeboye gave his life to Christ at the RCCG in 1973 at a time the church was populated mostly by unlettered men. Faithful in his calling, Pastor Adeboye not only became the GO only eight years after joining the RCCG but has today been elevated far above his peers in ministry work. The humility that could lead him to the church where he accepted an assignment (interpreter from Yoruba to English) that was ordinarily way below his station at that particular period remains his strength even till today.

There is a lot to learn from the life and ministry of Pastor Adeboye who has at every point led by example. It is then little wonder that the mustard seed of a church entrusted to him 41 years ago has blossomed to become a household name in

100 Crucial Days in Nigeria

R

egardless of where one stands on the animosity between Russia and North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), leading to the invasion of Ukraine

by President Vladimir Putin, reports of the human tragedies are heartbreaking. Sadly, many of our nationals are also caught in the middle of this disaster. Ukraine and Russia have in recent years become destinations of choice for many young Nigerians seeking affordable quality education in medicine and the sciences.

The distress of war and the racism that is now blatant in the treatment of refugees fleeing Kyiv for neighbouring countries, have combined to worsen the plight of these Nigerians and other Africans.

For Nigeria, the Russian invasion of Ukraine presents both challenge and opportunities.

But as @Chuksbey reminded us on Twitter, “Opportunities are always a nightmare to the unprepared.” With crude prices approximately $110 per barrel, subsidy payments will gulp whatever gains we make from oil sales.

Our woe is compounded by the reality that Nigerians are currently being forced to buy available fuel at scandalous prices. But let’s not deceive ourselves, most of our politicians and top public officials care less about what is going on between Russia and Ukraine. With the signing last Friday of the electoral act 2022

by President Muhammadu Buhari, attention has shifted to the 2023 general election that is now effectively eleven months away.

Last Saturday, INEC released the 2023 general election timetable which stipulates that the “Conduct of party primaries, including the resolution of disputes arising from them” should begin tomorrow 4th April and conclude by 3rd June 2022. Going by that timetable, the future of our democracy effectively rests on less than 100 days. For the ruling APC, the challenge is

even more daunting because the party must first elect its National Working Committee (NWC) before the congresses and national convention to nominate candidates.

Meanwhile, all the masquerades with eyes on the presidency must now come to the threshing floor if they have the courage of their conviction.

With or without Clause 84 of the electoral act which gives sleepless nights to those who want to eat their cake and still have it, selection of candidates must be done within the next 90 days.

That is why the greater responsibility falls on political parties. If the APC and the PDP nominate rubbish candidates for the presidency and state governorship positions, we will only be affirming their detritus at the election proper next year.

It is the same with the choice of candidates for the national and states assemblies.

Elite conversations in the next 90 days must therefore reflect that the nation is almost at a crossroads. Despite our status as an oil producing nation, Nigerians are groaning from scarcity of petroleum products due to the way we have mismanaged our affairs. Claims by the NNPC that it expended N210.38 billion on fuel subsidy in January left no money for the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) to share in the first month of this year. The problem is further compounded by the recent classification of our country as a ‘hunger hotspot’ by the World Food Programme (WFP) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). In their joint report, the two United Nations agencies observed that food insecurity is soaring in about 20 countries where conflict, economic shocks, natural hazards, and limited humanitarian access now put millions of lives at risk. Nigeria is listed among countries that include South Sudan, Yemen, and the northern parts of Ethiopia.

It is good that many Nigerians are paying attention to what is going on in Ukraine. That

may serve as a warning to the warmongers in our midst about the consequences of their actions. The dangerous weapons being deployed in Ukraine, we are now being told, were designed not for “European people with blonde hair and blue eyes” but rather for people in Africa and the developing world. This then prompts pertinent questions for us regarding how to put our house in order, especially in Nigeria: How do we tackle the challenge of insecurity that has made huge swathes of our country criminal empires and made living and livelihood difficult for rural dwellers?

How do we address the brain drain in which our young professionals (most of them trained at home) are emigrating abroad in droves? How do we resolve the crisis in our educational sector that has led to many Nigerian parents sending their children and wards to foreign universities, including in Ghana? How do we make Nigeria a nation indeed rather than one whose unity is decreed as non-negotiable by those who arrogate to themselves a monopoly of patriotism?

In these crucial 90 days, the media have a huge role to play in the way we set the agenda and frame these questions. And for us to play this role well, rather than become part of the problem, we must stay above the fray. I once recalled my experience at a conference in Maputo, Mozambique in 2006, where Mr. Wachira Waruru, then Managing Director of the Kenyan Film Corporation, said all African journalists have something in common. According to Waruru, we express frustrations “about leaders without vision, leaders without integrity, leaders that are corrupt.” He then posed two questions: “Where are the African journalists when these leaders are elected? Why do you people (journalists) sit idly by when the electorate vote wrong people?”

The average voter on the continent, Waruru argued, exercises their franchise based on narrow and primordial considerations. Using

practically all the countries of the world. As RCCG members and well-wishers therefore celebrate Pastor Adeboye, I find no better fitting words than what President Olusegun Obasanjo wrote about him in January 2001 excerpts of which I take from the book, ‘Let Somebody Shout Hallelujah!’

Pastor Adeboye, according to President Obasanjo, “is a most humble man who goes about the propagation of the gospel with utmost simplicity and under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. The way he delivers the revelation from the throne of grace makes God Almighty (through the Holy Spirit) so practical and real in his ministry…Pastor Adeboye carries the presence of the Holy Spirit so distinctly that it cannot be mistaken.

One can therefore not but be inspired by a man with such supernatural endowment…

Pastor Adeboye is thoroughly distinguished, not by his activities, but by the grace of the Lord upon his life. If anything, God should raise up men who, while they are still here, could share in their burden and, after them, could keep the touch of the supernatural ever aglow”.

I join millions of people across the world in saying happy birthday to the most authentic Daddy GO! his country, Kenya, as an illustration, Waruru gave the example of a member of parliament who devised an election-winning mechanism.

With his constituency comprising four districts, the lawmaker married four wives, one from each of the districts. At election time, according to Waruru, the lawmaker would remind his constituents that as their son-in-law they had a responsibility to vote for him so he could continue to take care of their daughters.

Waruru concluded his treatise with what happened in Kenya in 2005 during the campaign leading to a major referendum. He said both the people in power and the opposition politicians decided to conduct their campaign by crisscrossing the country in helicopters, perhaps because the roads were not motorable. Quite naturally, whenever these politicians reach a village, they create a spectacle with their helicopters to dazzle the people and in the process throw debris in the air. “The major part of their stay is spent on being entertained by drummers and dancers after which they will spend about five minutes abusing their opponents. They will say nothing about the merit of the referendum, or the issues involved.

Not surprisingly, after they leave, the villagers will spend the next weeks talking about the beauty of their helicopter!”

That helicopter campaign has been our lot as a nation at every election cycle since 1999.

All it takes to aspire for office in Nigeria is to print glossy posters with which our politicians deface the environment and then make outlandish promises. And because they are never tasked, most politicians in our country seek power for reasons not inspired by a commitment to public service. Too many want to be able to dispense favours to friends and cronies, some simply to enjoy the good life with their 28 children and others simply for the vanity of being driven around in long convoys of cars with policemen carrying the handbags of their wives and concubines.

The next 90 days will decide whether that is still the Nigeria we should look forward to after the 2023 general election.

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