Death toll rises to 44, with 139 rescued by Vanguard Media Limited

...towards a better life for the people

VOL. 25: NO. 62231

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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Nigeria's Dr Eugene Juwah, new Chairman, Commonwealth Telecommunications Organisation (CTO) being congratulated by former Chairman, Juma Kandie of Kenya, while Prof Tim Unwin, Secretary General, CTO, (right), Abigail Sono of South Africa and Cris Seecheran of Trinidad and Tobago watch on.

Boko Haram: No place for the feeble-minded in the armed forces >8 — Jonathan

SYNAGOGUE BUILDING COLLAPSE

Death toll rises to 44, with 139 rescued

By Leke Adeseri, Swest Regional Editor & Evelyn Usman

•Fashola visits, orders non-rescue workers to vacate •80 per cent of the survivors are women – NEMA •Building approval: Lagos Govt to decide today •TB Joshua shows footage of incident, says I'm the target

AGOS—THE death toll from last Friday's collapsed five-storey building owned by the Synagogue Church of All Nations, SCOAN, in Ikotun area of Lagos State, rose to 44, yesterday. 25 bodies were re-

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COLUMNISTS:

Greed and N65 ATM levy P.40

SAS as presidential consort •P.46

Mr & Mrs INTERNALLY DISPLACED—Internally Displaced youths and children from Madagali, Michika and Mubi LGAs struggling for food at Bajabure Camp in Girei LGA of Adamawa, yesterday. Below right: Some other displaced persons at the camp. Photos: NAN.

....Ebola impacts economy •P.17 C M Y K

ADEKUNLE: Fashola, Amosun, Mimiko, others pay tribute •P.13

20 feared dead in Taraba ethnic clash •P.9

Four die, one missing in Lagos boat mishap •P.7

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POCKET CARTOON

lenging them on the building approval but they haven’t said anything convincing. They claimed to have approval but we could not confirm it. They were told to bring the building approval authorised by the state government but none of them could provide it.” Sources, however, told Vanguard , yesterday, that the correct status of the building’s approval will emerge as work resumes in government offices today.

DANGOTE AND GATES—From Left: Chief Executive Officer of

Microsoft Corporation, Mr Satya Madella; President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote and the Chairman of Microsoft Corporation, Mr Bill Gates, after discussion on the collaboration between their foundations to improve the livelihood of the world’s most vulnerable populations, during Dangote’s recent visit to Seattle, Washington, USA.

Death toll rises to 44, with 139 rescued Continues from page 1 covered by rescue workers from the rubble. On the other hand, six persons, all women, were reportedly rescued alive, thereby raising the number of survivors to 139. Meantime, the Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, while condoling with General Overseer of the church, Prophet Temitope Joshua and members of the church, advised that staff and members of the church, should allow emergency workers could do their work. Fashola gave the advice when he visited the scene, yesterday. Prophet Joshua popularly called T. B Joshua, yesterday, played a footage of the collapsed building as allegedly captured by the Church’s Close Circuit Television, CCTV, camera to his congregation. The footage showed that the building, which served as a guest house where people with varying ailments from within and outside the country put up, caved in at exactly 12.44pm. This was shortly after an airplane which was captured while hovering round the church’s premises left. Joshua narrated how he left ‘prayer mountain’ where he ‘lives’ to return to the church, only to be alerted by a telephone call, in which the caller told him that a plane was hovering around the church’s premises. The structure was ini-

tially a two-storey building before it was converted to a five-storey edifice. Those who were trapped under the debris included foreigners, some kitchen staff and construction workers.

Fashola’s directs church members to vacate site Fashola, during his visit, yesterday, urged Joshua to prevail on members of the church allow government rescue workers a chance to do their job unhindered as they (members) were not trained to manage emergency situations. “What you need to understand now is that this place is now an accident scene and so all your staff must leave this place. We need to take control of this place and have people who have been trained to do this job to do so. “So, please ask all your staff to step down from this place until we finish. When we finish, if you have any person, whether an engineer or a medical person you want to be on the site with them, working with them to know what they are taking there, then it is easier; they can report to you and then report to me. “But, we can’t continue rescue operations with your men hanging around here. We understand this is an unfortunate incident, we under-

stand their sense of sympathy and compassion. But let them allow those who are trained to do the job to take over and do the job. It won’t make sense if they are getting in their way.” Joshua, later conducted the governor and his entourage round the site after an earlier brief, closed door meeting. Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has expressed wilingness to apply necessary sanction if investigation found any lapses on the part of the developer and owner of the building in line with state government policy on such matter. Special Adviser to Governor Babatunde Fashola on Information and Strategy, Alhaji Lateef Raji made the remarks while speaking with Vanguard on the development. It will be recalled that the state government had commenced investigation into the immediate and remote cause(s) of the collapsed building. The Lagos State Building and Control Agency, LASBCA, boss, Mrs Abimbola Animashaun, yesterday, maintained that the state government could not confirm a trace of any document stating that the building was approved. Animashaun, who led her team to the scene of the incident on Friday, said none of the church members could provide evidence of approval for the collapsed building. According to her: “We have been here chal-

We must avoid future avoidable disaster — Commissioner Commenting on the incident, the state Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr Olutoyin Ayinde, said the church authority was yet to present evidence of building approval. On the other buildings under construction within the premises, Ayinde said: “Like the collapsed building, the church has begun to add more floors to some existing buildings. The act is a dangerous development which must be checked before it results into another avoidable disaster “The church authority claimed they have a team of engineers overseeing ongoing building constructions in the church premises. They claimed they have approval for the building. We have told them to present their approval. So, we are still waiting for them to present it. On whether those building with additional floors will be sealed off by the government, he said: "We are waiting for the building approval which they claimed they have”.

I'm the target, God'll get back at them — Joshua Addressing his congregation during yesterday ’s service, Joshua said: “I know this is not the right time to talk. I will just say a little because I don’t want to interfere with the job of security personnel. "First, I received a call that there was a jet hovering around the mountain (the church) which I just left at very close range. Later, I was informed that the plane in question was flying dangerously low over a particular building within

the church premises. This is to tell you we have a stable terrain in this area. I have been in this community for the past 30 years and no building has ever collapsed here “I know you will ask me why Synagogue? Don’t forget the spiritual blessing that God has bestowed on us? A big head wears a large hat. They are trying to scare you from coming to this church. Don’t be scared, you are not the target, I am the target. I know my hour has not yet come. I have not yet finished my job. There is no compromise in what we do at all. I am going to leave this for you to judge. I want to assure you that our God will get back at them – the agents of Satan. “The reason I am showing you this is for you to know the God you are serving. God wants to reveal to you what He has been doing that you don’t know about. I know that faithless attendees may likely stop visiting this church”, he said. He, however, assured that effort was in top gear to rescue the remaining trapped victims, even as he described those who lost their lives in the tragic incident as people of faith who knew the God they served. At about 5pm, yesterday, rescue operation was still ongoing. Vanguard gathered that between the early hours of yesterday when rescue workers resumed operation at the scene and 9.43 am, 28 persons were rescued from the rubble. Six of them were reportedly rescued alive while 22 were brought out dead. At about 11.30am, the corpse of a woman was recovered. Barely three hours later, another body was reportedly removed from the debris.

Again, at 4.35pm, a female dead body was brought out by rescue workers. South West Spokes person of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, Ibrahim Farinloye said: “ As at now, 4.30pm, a total of 139 persons have been rescued alive while 44 are dead. 80 per cent of the rescued are women”.

The building collapsed in a second —Victim’s relation When Vanguard visited one of the male wards at the Isolo General Hospital, Isolo Local Government Area, four of the injured victims were on admission. Among the four was Hamisu Abdullahi from Kano State, who sustained head injury. Also speaking, Yusuf Abdullahi, who claimed to be Hamisu's brother explained: “On Friday when the building collapsed, we were unable to locate him, to know if he escaped or not. And the reason for that was because we had a chat before we both set out for work. “And on Saturday morning, after so much search, we were able to locate him here (Isolo General Hospital). “Hamisu is one of the labourers at the site. And he had been working at the site for months,” he added. On how it happened, Yusuf said: “He (Hamisu) could not say how the building collapsed. All he said was that the building collapsed some few minutes past 12:00 pm. And it caved in within a twinkle of an eye. And it didn’t give any sign of crack to alert the workers and the church members. “I am happy Hamisu is now in stable condition. I know some people died after the building collapsed,” Abdullahi said.

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Fake DSS officer remanded in prison By Gbenga Olarinoye

SOGBO — A 22year-old man, Aladegolu Victor, who was arraigned for allegedly parading himself as an officer of the police and Department of State Services, DSS, during the just concluded governorship election in Osun State,weekend failed to secure bail as Magistrate Olusola Aluko ordered his counsel, Mrs. Nnena Ngwu, to file formal application for his bail. The accused person, who was alleged to have posed as a DSS operative, was arrested in Ile-Ife. Aladegbolu, in company of others now at large, was alleged to have presented himself as a personnel of DSS at a polling unit in IleIfe City Hall area. The prosecutor, Mr Biodun Badiora, told the court that the case file of the accused person was just handed over to him by the police. He, however, urged the court to grant him adjournment to study the case file for proper prosecution. Magistrate Aluko, however, ordered that the accused be remanded in Ilesa prison custody. He subsequently adjourned the case till September 30, 2014 for hearing while the bail application would be considered on September 19, 2014.

Four die, one missing in Lagos boat mishap L

By Bose Adelaja

AGOS — BARELY a month after a speed boat capsized in Bayeku area of Ikorodu leaving many dead, another speed boat belonging to Oke’ra-Nla Boat Association in Ajah area of Lagos, weekend capsized leaving four persons dead while one is still missing at press time. The boat with 22 passengers was heading towards Bayeku from Oke-Ira. There were conflicting accounts of what led to the accident. While some attributed it to the boat

colliding with a log of wood, another account said it was caused by boisterous water waves. An eye witness who pleaded anonymity said the boat was hit from behind by another boat which was on top speed. Both were said to have been hit by water waves and could not help the situation as the one behind allegedly lost control and hit the illfated boat which then capsized. Seventeen persons were rescued while four bodies

were recovered while one was still missing at press time. The four bodies were said to be carpenters who went for jobs in Ajah and were returning to Agbowa area after a week. Some of the passengers were said to have refused to wear their life jackets for the fear of Ebola Virus Diseases, EVD. A local diver who does not want his name in print said the four bodies were found inside the damaged boat. "The boat operator was dumbfounded and could not

recollect the number of passengers in the boat. It was when we got to the jetty that we cross-checked the number and we went back only to find four bodies inside the boat," the diver said. When Vanguard got to the scene yesterday, the boat operator was said to be undergoing interrogation by the Police while officers of the affected company were said to have been invited by officials of Lagos State Waterways Agency, LASWA, for questioning.

Commercial sex worker bags 100 days imprisonment over $3,200 theft

BUJA— A Life Camp Senior magistrate's court, Abuja, last week sentenced a 23-year-old commercial sex worker, Rosemary Ebikeme, to 100 days imprisonment for stealing $3,200 belonging to her customer. The senior magistrate, Abdulahi Ilaleh, who convicted Rosemary after she pleaded guilty to a one-count charge, however, gave her an option of N5,000 fine. Ilaleh cautioned the convict to desist from the crime, saying that the sentence would serve as a deterrent to others. Prosecutor Ona Odigiri had told the court that on September 4 one Aleixandre Sachir of Tack Continental Estate, Life Camp, reported the matter to Life Camp Police Station. The prosecutor further told the court that the complainant met the convict in a cinema hall and took her to Waxride Hotel. He said the convict stole $3,200 (about N500,000) from the complainant on September 2 and eloped. Odigiri said that when the convict came back to complain on September 4, she was apprehended and handed over to the police. The convict, however, pleaded guilty to the charge and begged the court to temper justice with mercy.

She said: “Please have mercy on me; I am a student and I am only looking for money to pay my school fees. I stole the money to do

business so that I will stop selling my body for money. Please forgive me. “I stole the money from him, even though he paid me

N5,000 for my service, please have mercy in God’s name.” The prosecutor said the offence contravened Section 288 of the Penal Code Law.

A masquerade entertaining guests at the grand finale of Oranmiyan festival in Oyotown, Saturday. PHOTO: NAN

4 killed in Rivers cult war By Jimitota Onoyume & Davies Ihiemnachor

ORT HARCOURT — FOUR persons where feared dead yesterday in Ibaa

community, Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State as rampaging cultists took over the community, shooting sporadically.

Delta community vs oil firm: Police invite stakeholders

HE Delta State Police Command has invited stakeholders in the face-off between Chevron and leaders of Okoyitoro/ Makaraba oilfied, to the office of the Area Commander, Warri. Comrade Timi Oluba, a leader from Okoyitoro/ Makaraba oilfied, said the meeting being conveyed by the Area Commander, Warri, was to discuss the marginalisation of the communities by Chevron. Oluba said: "The meeting is holding on Wednesday at the office of the Area Commander. Chevron has been exploiting our oil without giving us portable drinking water, good health care facility, schools and electricity.” He, however, commended the Area Commander for conveying the meeting, adding that what they need is the development of their communities.

Community sources said the shooting started in the early hours and lasted for about five hours. At press time, Vanguard gathered that scores of residents had fled the community. Nobody could say what provoked the action of the cultists but some community folks said it could be a reprisal from the hoodlums. Meantime, when contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ahmed Muhamaad, confirmed the incident, saying security men had moved in to restore nomalcy. “The command is aware of the incident. Our men are already there while normalcy has since been restored. Three suspects are in Police custody in connection with the incident,” he said. A community source, who said he saw at least four corpses being conveyed in a Police patrol vehicle corroborated the position of the Police image maker that peace had returned to the area.

8 — Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Suntai shuns deputy at Abuja Airport ...Moves to reclaim office from Umar By Soni Daniel, Regional Editor, North

HE face-off b e t w e e n recuperating Governor Danbaba Suntai of Taraba State and his deputy, Garba Umar, rekindled yesterday, upon the return of the former to Nigeria from overseas treatment. Competent sources said that security men attached to Suntai blocked Umar from seeing his boss over claims that he had concluded plans to declare the governor incapacitated following the 2012 air crash that resulted in prolonged hospitalisation abroad. Vanguard learnt that although Umar had gone to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja around midnight on Saturday to welcome back his boss from his overseas treatment, security men attached to the governor, stopped him from seeing Suntai. Umar reportedly left the airport in frustration after many unfruitful attempts to meet with Suntai, who was ferried into the country by a chartered private aircraft just before midnight. On Sunday, the acting governor also made spirited efforts to meet with his boss but was also prevented from seeing him in a private guest house, where he is said to be resting. A close aide to the governor told Vanguard that Suntai was angry with Umar for attempting to declare him unfit to resume work by asking the House of Assembly to probe his state of health. The aide said, “Umar is complaining to those who care to listen that he is being prevented from seeing his boss but what he is passing through serves him right because he no longer enjoys the confidence of Suntai. “The governor is upset that Umar is goading the members of the House of Assembly to declare him unfit to work when in reality he has returned and is ready to resume work. C M Y K

BOKO HARAM: Air Force fighter jet missing in Adamawa By Kingsley Omonobi & Umar Yusuf

...Fate of two pilots unknown

HE Defence Headquarters has declared an Air Force Fighter Jet with two pilots missing in Adamawa State. A statement signed by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Chris Olukolade on the incident said, “An Alpha Jet (NAF 466) belonging to the Nigerian Air Force is missing around Adamawa State. The aircraft, with two pilots on board, left Yola at about 10:45 a.m. on 12 September 2014 on a routine operational mission and was expected back by 12:00 noon. Since then all efforts to establish contact with the aircraft have not yielded any positive result.

Pilots still missing Meanwhile, search and rescue effort is ongoing to establish contact with the crew”. There were fears that the fighter plane may have been shot down by Boko Haram terrorists using rocket propelled anti-aircraft guns. It was gathered that the plane was overflying Mubi, Michika, Bazza, Gulak, Madagali, Gwoza axis when it suddenly disappeared from the radar. Sources told Vanguard that the (AA) anti-aircraft guns used by the Boko Haram insurgents may have been used by the terrorists on the aircraft. There are strong indications however that the missing Fighter Jet may have been located in Lala in Gombi Local Government area of Adamawa state. Sources close to the Airforce base in Yola who confirmed this did not give further details. Meanwhile, Adamawa State Acting Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has sympathized with the Nigeria Airforce over the loss of one of its Fighter Jets which was confirmed to have crashed in the State while on a mission to flush out insurgents in some towns. The Acting governor ’s message was contained in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretar y, Comrade Solomon Kumangar. He, however, saluted the resilience of the Nigerian Military and the gains they are making in the war against the insurgents.

We are determined to reclaim all towns, says Military Meanwhile following recent

LECTURE: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr Seni Adetu (left); Dr Christopher Kolade (right) and his wife, Beatrice during the 2nd Annual Christopher Kolade Lecture on Business Integrity held at Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island on Thursday. successes recorded by troops of the Nigerian military over Boko Haram insurgents in several battle fronts and the positive feedback from Nigerians, the Defence headquarters has assured that troops will continue to march forward until all Nigerian communities were reclaimed. It will be recalled that Nigerian troops supported from the air by the Nigerian airforce fighter jets and helicopter gunships, have dealt heavy blows on the insurgents in battles at Kawuri, Bama, Bimtim, Michika, Gulak and Konduga. While noting that citizen’s acknowledgement of the efforts of the military was encouraging, DHQ said troops’ morale has been boosted by this in recent days. Several tweets posted on DHQ handle in this regard read, “We acknowledge our citizens’ increased goodwill recently. The troops are boosted by your support”.

No place for the feeble minded in the armed forces — Jonathan In a related development, against the backdrop of reported cases of soldiers deserting the army and abdicating responsibility in

the battle to dislodge Boko Haram from the North East, President Goodluck Jonathan has said there is no place for the feeble minded and heartless in the Nigerian armed forces. Speaking at the combined passing out parade of the 61 regular course and Short Service Course 42 Army Cadets in Kaduna weekend, Jonathan said traditionally, our military have always consisted of bold and brave officers. Towards sustaining this virtue, he directed the institution of a special programme to honour men and women of the armed forces who lose their lives in active service. He warned that on no account should the nation abandon its citizens who pay the supreme price while serving their fatherland. Maintaining that the officers and armed forces men were fighting so that the rest of the country can live in peace, he promised them that the nation will not abandon them. Jonathan’s words “On this special occasion, I am directing the Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs to institute a special programme to honour our men in uniform

who lose their lives in active service. “On no account must our country abandon those who serve loyally and pay the supreme price. This honour is to ensure that their memory and service live with us and our nation forever. “You are passing out at a critical moment for our country. Those of you who are fortunate enough to be deployed to areas of national challenge have a unique opportunity to distinguish yourselves in your chosen career. “A career in our armed forces is not the place for the heartless. Our men and women in uniform are bold and brave. They are our pride and our nation will continue to honour and appreciate those who stand strong in defence of our country. “This administration is committed to due process, equity, merit and the rule of law, because they are the cardinal pillars of a democratic society. “As members of our Armed Forces, your constitutional responsibilities are very broad but clearly defined. I urge you, therefore, to engage only in noble and rewarding actions that will enhance your professionalism and career prospects, as well as maintain and deepen the confidence that the Nigerian people repose in you.”

Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014 —9

Rivers: Presidency wants to install PDP gov through CP — AMAECHI By Dapo Akinrefon

OVERNOR Rotimi Amaechi of Rivers State yesterday accused the Presidency of directing the new Rivers Police Commissioner, Mr Dan Bature, to install a governor on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP in the state. Governor Amaechi’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr David Iyofor, in a statement, disclosed that there was a fresh sinister plot to allegedly throw Rivers State into “avoidable crisis.” The governor’s scribe said the recently-deployed Police boss was “instructed by the Presidency to use the former Rivers police commissioner, Joseph Mbu’s draconian style and tactics in causing crisis in Rivers State.” According to Iyofor “while it is easy for a few in the Presidency to dismiss these reports, we in Rivers State, with the benefit of hindsight and our collective recent bitter experience in the hands of former Police Commissioner Joseph Mbu, who was also reported to have a similar mandate, cannot.” The governor ’s spokesperson, however, said any move to install a stooge of the presidency will be resisted by people of the state. He said the “people of Rivers State will strongly and bravely resist any attempt by anyone or institutions, including The Presidency, to unconstitutionally install the preferred PDP aspirant as governor of the state, now or in the 2015 election. There is no provision in the Nigerian Constitution and laws for the installation of a preferred aspirant as governor of a state by the presidency. What our laws prescribe is a free and fair election that must be devoid of police and security forces coercion, harassment and intimidation of voters.” He further warned that such move, if allowed, portends danger to the state and nation, adding, “Rivers voters must be allowed to and will freely elect their governor in the 2015 elections.''

20 feared killed as Fulani herdsmen invade Taraba village By John Mkom

ALINGO—NO fewer than twenty persons have been feared dead and scores of others injured when Fulani herdsmen allegedly invaded Tunari village in Wukari Local Government of

Taraba State yesterday. The attackers were said to have stormed the village at 10 am and set houses ablaze while most residents were in church. Speaking to Vanguard on the crisis, the President of the Youth of Vision, Wukari, Mr Tsa-asen

L. Agbu said the invaders, who were over three hundred, attacked mainly the Jukun Christians, a situation which he said has compelled a lot of persons to relocate from the area. According to him “they are burning down houses and

DINNER: From left: Minister of Health, Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu; Managing Director, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Nnamdi Okonkwo and Chairman, May & Baker Nigeria Plc, Lt. Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd) at the 70th Anniversary Dinner of May & Baker Nigeria Plc, held at Muson Centre, Lagos. Photo by Kehinde Gbadamosi.

killing our Jukun Christian brothers. They slaughtered children and women like rams. As I am talking to you right now, over twenty people have been killed, with several others sustaining various degrees of injuries while several houses have been burnt.” Another eyewitness told Vanguard that “the attackers operated for several hours killing and burning down houses without any trace of security men to come to our rescue.” According to the eyewitness, “these people took us unawares, and I believe they came from the nearby Plateau State. I think the level of damage would have been worse but for the fact that many of our people have gone to church.” A pastor of one of the churches, said the death toll was “more than twenty” and that most of the victims were women and children who according to him “were attacked on their way to their various churches. The Police Public Relation Officer, PPRO, Joseph Kwaji, who confirmed the incident was however unable to provide the casualty figure saying authentic figures were yet to be made available to the command. According to him “Tunari village in Wukari Local Government was attacked this morning by the Fulani people, but our men have been drafted there to restore peace”.

Reps resume tomorrow, debate Jonathan’s $1 bn loan request, Ebola, others ...Education c'ttee to meet NMA, NUT, parents over EVD today By Emman Ovuakporie &

Levinus Nwabughiogu

BUJA—AFTER a 56-day break, members of the House of Representatives will tomorrow reconvene to debate the $1 billion request from President Goodluck Jonathan to combat Boko Haram and security problems in Nigeria. House Committee Chairman on rules and business, Rep Albert Sam-Tsokwa,PDP, Taraba, who revealed this yesterday stated that apart from the president’s loan request, the House would devote the whole of Tuesday to attend to matters of urgent national importance. Sam-Tsokwa stressed that while the lawmakers were on break, a lot of issues emerged that required their attention, hence the House would have to look into them immediately. The lawmaker said due to the renewed attacks by Boko Haram, the House would have to

expedite action on the request made by President Jonathan. “So many things happened during the break and these are matters of urgent national importance, which have to be critically and urgently attended to. So when we resume on Tuesday, we will devote the entire sitting debating on such issues”. On the request for a $1 billion to checkmate insurgency by President Jonathan, Tsokwa explained that “ with the happenings around us, the House will accelerate consideration of the matter. The matter was referred to relevant committees and we will be expecting their report immediately plenary commences on Tuesday. “ Other national issues that may be on the front burner at the resumed plenary of the House include the September 22 resumption date of schools, the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, leadership configuration of the minority parties, divestment of oil wells and the

state of investigation of the utilisation of the service wide votes, among others. Preparatory to the Tuesday resumption, the House committee on education will today meet with members of the Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, parents association and other stakeholders in the health and education sector to review the September 22, 2014 resumption date for private and public primary and secondary schools in the country. Following the change of resumption date from October 13 to September 22 by the federal ministry of education, the House leadership had last week mandated its committee on education to review the matter, considering the fact that the outbreak Ebola virus has not completely abated in the country. Chairman of the House Committee on Education, Aminu Suleiman said last week that the committee had set aside today to interface with relevant stakeholders in education and

health sectors so as to present an informed recommendation to the floor when the House reconvenes tomorrow. Vanguard recalls that the House had supported those calling for the postponement of schools’ resumption date. Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Rep Victor Ogene,APGA, Anambra who disclosed the position of the House in Abuja, said apprehension was still palpable among parents and guardians over Federal Government’s decision to change the earlier resumption date of October 13 to September 22. Ogene, had noted that the leadership of the House was concerned over the fresh protests by the public, especially parents and guardians, said the House tasked the committee to look into the matter urgently “in the overall interest of the pupils and students, parents and guardian and the general wellbeing of the entire country.” C M Y K

10—Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Lagos APC, PDP trade words over federal, state's debt profiles By Victor Ahiuma-Young & Dapo Akinrefon

AGOS State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, and its Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, counterpart, weekend traded words over both the Federal and Lagos State debt profiles. While the APC challenged the PDP led Federal Government to give Nigerians a detailed explanation on how it piled up N8.8 trillion for the country, the PDP demanded a probe into how the state government disbursed N160 billion loan meant to develop the state. APC in a statement by its Lagos State Publicity Secretary, Joe Igbokwe, commended Governor of the state, Babatunde Raji Fashola, on his detailed explanations about the status of the state’s debt profile, saying every Nigerian should be grateful to Fashola and the APC government in Lagos for utilizing the state’s resources to better the lives of Nigerians when the federal government had become abjectly derelict to its responsibilities. The party which contended that time has come for Nigerians to

demand from their leaders at the federal level what it did with the debt accumulated in recent times, said: “We salute Governor Fashola for his brilliant answer to what was obviously a blackmail from the PDP federal government that has been pilling debts for Nigerians at an alarming rate. Even with the huge accruals the PDP federal government is harnessing, it has once again, run Nigeria into a tricky debt trap after Nigeria’s controversial exit from the debt trap during the Obasanjo regime. It must interest Nigerians to know that while the publication was making an issue that a viable state like Lagos is owing N160 billion, it wanted to play down the fact that the Federal Government it works for has piled up Nigeria’s debt to N8.8 trillion. “Lagos has the fifth largest economy in Africa, catering for more than 21 million people and with such gigantic projects like the famous light rail project, the several independent power projects, the Eko Atlantic City, ambitious city roads, gigantic municipal water works, etc. Lagos has a reputation as a solid state that has met all its previous debt obligations. Lagos invests in

regenerative projects that have contributed not only to make the state productive and viable to all Nigerians but also the mainstay of the Nigerian economy. We challenge the federal government to do a detailed explanation of what it does with the huge debt it had piled up for Nigerians. We want them to let Nigerians know what it does with the 52 per cent it collects from the federation account each month while poverty, unemployment, infrastructural decay, insecurity, etc have all taken over the country.” Meanwhile, state chapter of PDP has demanded a probe into how the Lagos State government disbursed N160 billion loan meant to develop the state. The party also faulted Governor Fashola’s attempt to rationalise the use of the said loan saying the argument was “ weak, unsatisfactory and diversionary.” In a statement by its publicity secretary, Mr. Taofik Gani, the party recalled that the Debt Management Office, DMO, recently stated that the Lagos State Government owed N1b out of the total N3billion owed by all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

Governor Fashola had in a reaction during his inspection of the protracted light-rail project questioned the DMO’s motive behind the revelation, whilst also claiming to have spent the money on infrastructure such as the ongoing light-rail project. It said: “ we are again vindicated by the DMO revelation on the amount Lagos State is indebted to under Governor Fashola. We had said it many times that Governor Fashola has plunged the State into irreparable economic damage going by his monumental and unprecedented debt profile. The revelation of N160b debt is apart the other local and foreign loans and bonds running into more than N1trillion.” While calling for probe into the loan, the party said “it is our demand that the governor’s office must explain the details of this needless loan, whilst the EFCC probes the veracity. This is baffling especially considering the fact that the state is not enjoying commensurate development as it lacks in adequate and affordable services and infrastructure. It is indeed an afterthought for the governor to claim to have spent the loan on infrastructure. The major infrastructure is the lightrail project and which was presented as public-private Investment. What is, therefore, the amount contributed by the private investor who is eventually taking the concessionaire? This is another government stealing by proxy. No doubt the protracted project has been used as conduit to steal Lagos funds.”

From left: Chief Demola Seriki, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, Dr. Olalekan Bashorun, Provost Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, APC Leader, Femi Gbajabiamila and Muslim Folami during the presentation of N50m cheque by Sen. Remi Tinubu to Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education at the the 12th Edition of Lagos Central Senatorial District Town Hall Meeting hosted by the senator in Victoria Island, Lagos, yesterday. Photo: Biodun Ogunleye

Panel on vandalisation of BRT buses begins sitting By Olasunkanmi Akoni

HE Tribunal of Inquiry set up by the Lagos State Government to investigate the road traffic accident and subsequent arson and vandalization of Bus Rapid Transit, BRT, buses on Friday, July 4, 2014, will commence its inaugural public sitting today. Lagos Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ade Ipaye, who disclosed this, weekend, said the tribunal would commence public hearing from tomorrow, Tuesday, September 16 to 26, 2014 at

the Conference Room of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, (T Block) Alausa. Ipaye said the tribunal would, among other responsibilities, enquire into the causes and factors leading to the road traffic accident involving a soldier/ motorcyclist and a Bus Rapid Transit, BRT, bus as well as the subsequent events on Ikorodu Road on Friday, July 4, 2014, and also make appropriate recommendations to prevent future occurrence of incidents of such nature.

AMCON records N630bn loss in operations By Peter Egwuatu

SSET Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON, has recorded a loss of N630 billion in its operations according to the International Financial Reporting Standard, IFRS, statement for the year 2013. This represents an improvement of 10.3 per cent from the loss of N702.4 billion recorded in 2012. The financial highlights of the corporation as obtained from Afrinvest Research report posted, weekend, showed improvements in top line (turnover) despite its role as an intervention vehicle to absorb Non Performing Loans (NPLs) from banks and recapitalize weak banks. Specifically, gross earnings increased by 50.5 per cent Year on Year. The corporation’s top line grew by a significant 50.0 per cent from N182.7billion in 2012 to N274.9 billion in 2013. The improvement in top and bottom lines were both driven by 21.9 per cent increase in interest income to N181.3billion in 2013 from N148.7billion in 2012. Noninterest income also contributed to the growth in top line, increasing 15.9 per cent to N16.3billion in 2013 from N14.0billion in 2012. Interest expense came in at N556.8billion in 2013, 1.9 per cent higher than N546.3billiion sustained by the inclusion of financing cost, which constitutes 65.2 per cent of the total cost.

Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014— 11

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12 — Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Okotie-Eboh solicits support for Reyenieju's re-election

ARRI — CHAIRMAN of Warri Democratic Alliance, WA-DA, Mr. Emmanuel Okotie-Eboh, weekend, called on the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, delegates to vote Mr Daniel Reyenieju, House of Representatives member representing Warri federal constituency, to represent the party again in the next general elections. Okotie-Eboh said Reyenieju has done so much in the constituency in his short stay in the House, calling on the people of the constituency to emulate "our Ijaw neighbours, who are already planning the return of Mr. Nicholas Mutu for the fifth time.’’ He said the Ijaw had demonstrated that they have good politicians in their fold and "are copying the American and British systems, where a lawmaker can spend over 30 years in parliament. "My late father was in the parliament from 1954 to 1966 and if not for death, he would have one day ruled Nigeria. That is the importance of continuity. It is a pride to have the dean from your constituency."

Derivation: N-Delta won’t give up, says Uduaghan BY Emma Amaize

SABA—GOVERNOR Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, weekend, said the Niger Delta region will not give up its demand for increase in the 13 per cent derivation to oil states despite the stand-off at the just concluded national conference. Uduaghan, who stated this when he played host to a delegation of Urhobo leaders, who came to thank him for his role in the appointment of Dr. Stephen Oru as the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, said those opposed to their demand do not understand the developmental challenges of the region, which the current 13 per cent derivation could not address. He said: “We shall not give up asking for more for this region. Let me appeal to our brothers outside the Niger Delta that what we have presently is not near enough to address the challenges of development we have in the region.” On the current jostle for political positions, he appealed to politicians and political office holders in the state to eschew the attitude of grumbling but seek the interest of the state above personal interest. According to him, “there are

a lot of us who are always grumbling, sometimes we need to draw a line and first think of the system, what is in the interest of the state before our personal interest. “There are people who will say if I don’t get it, then I must destroy it. We are even seeing them on the field again for 2015; lots of them are in the race now for 2015. So, if God says it is not you, don’t destroy it, try to see how you can help to build.” Uduaghan commended the

delegation for coming to appreciate him for his contribution and support towards the appointment of the minister, saying: “Yes, I played my part, but I believe that this appointment was given to Dr. Oru by God and God should take the credit. “God used the President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, to listen to the cry of the Urhobo people, the cry of Delta people and cry of those who believe in loyalty, steadfastness and those who

believe in remaining where they should be even if it has not happened. And that is why we were able to get this appointment.” The state deputy governor, Prof. Amos Utuama, who led the delegation on behalf of Oru and the Urhobo nation, thanked the governor for his contribution and support for the Urhobo people Oru, on his part, assured that he will contribute his quota to the development of the region.

Edo PDP accuses Oshiomhole of globetrotting By Gabriel Enogholase

ENIN— CHAIRMAN of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Edo State, has accused Governor Adams Oshiomhole of expending N17.5 million on a private visit to Miami, United States, last month. The party called on Oshiomhole to stay at home and use taxpayers’ money accruing to the state to solve what it described as myriads of problems facing the state instead of junketing abroad when it suits him. The state party chairman, Chief Dan Orbih, spoke at Afuze and Sabongida-Ora, headquarters of Owan East and

West Local Government Areas of the state during rallies organised to welcome defectors from the All Progressives Congress, APC, including a former Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Mr Omo Ezomo, and Mr John Aimola, to the PDP. The party noted that the poor performance by the state government had created a disconnect between government and the people, adding that the PDP was certain of victory in next year’s general elections and the 2016 governorship election. Orbih said people were now asking if government still exists in the state, pointing out

that roads and the health sector in the state were in terrible conditions while there are no teachers in public schools. Also seaking at Afuze, a chieftain of PDP, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, said: “When Governor Oshiomhole said goodbye to poverty, we assumed he was talking about Edo people. Today, however, we now know that what he meant was goodbye to poverty for himself and not the Edo people.” Mr John Aimola, who said he had to resign his position as an Executive Director of Sports in the state, noted that he was only an executive director in name as “I had no file to treat, no office to work and no programme to initiate.”

SYNAGOGUE CHURCH BUILDING COLLAPSE

A victim being rescued from the debris. Photos: Lamidi Bamidele

Another rescued victim. C M Y K

Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State (right) and Pastor T. B. Joshua (left) during Fashola's visit to the scene of the collapsed building, yesterday.

A survivor being taken into an ambulance.

Scene of the collapsed building.

Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014—13

Rob Evans leads int'l models for BENJAMIN ADEKUNLE: Fashola Native and Vogue fashion week Amosun, Mimiko pay tributes BY Victor AhiumaYoung & Gbenga Ariyibi

By Jemi Ekunkunbor

OUR days to the kick off of the much publicised Native and Vogue Port Harcourt International Fashion Week, excitement greets the Nigerian fashion industry as British modelling sensation, Rob Evans, weekend, confirmed he was participating in the fashion festival. The 26-year-old well sought-after model, by designers and photographers, have plied his trade from Paris to New York and has adorned works of great brands such as Givenchy and Trussardi boosting his profile with an impressive collection of magazine editorial works. The boxer turned model, who stands at an enviable height of 6ft 3', will lead the pack of international models expected to grace the Native and Vogue runway when the curtain raises on Friday at the Garden City, Port Harcourt. Others expected at the show are Tanzanian born supermodel, Millen Magaese; Devyn Abdullah, winner of FACE and brand ambassador for Ultra and Nigerian born Adeola Ariyo who made history

LAGOS — THREE

South-West governors, Babatunde Fashola, Ibikunle Amosun and Olusegun Mimiko of Lagos, Ogun, and Ondo states respectively, yesterday said history had recorded Brigadier General Benjamin Adekunle, who died Saturday, well, saying posterity would never forget him. Similarly, Minister of State for Works, Prince Adedayo Adeyeye, has described the death his as a painful loss to the Yoruba nation in particular and Nigeria.

Nigeria has lost a true patriot — Fashola

Rob Evans as the first African Brand Ambassador for Cosmetic giant, Elizabeth Arden. They will be joined by other internationals and 80 home based models who will all bring their ‘A’ game to the show. Organised by the Rivers State government in partnership with Neo Mantra, Allure and Bunor Creazioni, the annual

event which enters its second season will create a platform for interactions for both local and international models as well as create an international platform for local models to express themselves and explore the possibilities that the Rivers State government is exploring with such platforms.

Jonathan lacks political will to fight insurgency —Kwankwaso By Simon Ebegbulem

ENIN CITY— GOVERNOR Rabiu Kwankwaso of Kano State has said that President Goodluck Jonathan lacks the political will to tackle the Boko Haram insurgency, adding that rather than fight the insecurity in the country “Mr President has perfected plans to witchhunt All Progressives Congress, APC, governors due to his presidential ambition.”

He described the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as “haven for criminals,” adding that it was as a result of the “misdirection, lack of focus” that made him leave the PDP for the APC. He said over four million people had been displaced as a result of the insurgency in North-East. He spoke on a live programme of a television station in Benin, Edo State, after he visited the 250 students of Kano State origin at the Igbinedion

University, where he also felicitated with Chief Gabriel Igbinedion on his 80th birthday celebration. He alleged that the “the President is busy beaming searchlight on opposition governors and APC leaders to accuse them of corruption just because he wants to become President for a second term while our children are dying in the North as insecurity and poverty have become the order of the day. "That is the plot of the PDP but if they try to intimidate the opposition, they will not like what they will get. “The issue of insecurity in this country and many other countries requires everybody from all the political parties, people from all walks of life to work together to ensure that extremists, insurgents and criminals are defeated in Nigeria and elsewhere."

Governor Fashola in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Hakeem Bello, said the late Army General would be remembered in the nation’s history for his commitment to the unity of Nigeria which led to his widely acknowledged exploits and bravery during the unfortunate 30-month civil war. “He rose and offered his service to keep Nigeria one when the nation was facing a serious challenge against her unity and stability. The legendary bravery and accomplishments of his command, the Third

Marine Commando, is well documented and will, for a long time, remain a reference point for patriotic service to the nation”, the Governor said. Expressing regrets that the war hero died at a period when Nigeria was facing other challenges relating to security, Governor Fashola said Nigeria needed men such as the Black Scorpion to rise to the present situation to battle the security challenges facing the country.

He was civil war hero —Amosun

Governor Amosun in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Wakama, said he was greatly saddened by the news of the death of the war veteran, describing him as a civil war hero. He said the incident happened at a time the wisdom and knowledge of the likes of General Adekunle was needed to curb the unfortunate acts of insurgents in the nation. “This is so sad. Black Scorpion, as he was fondly called, played a significant role in the unity and search for peace in our country as he fought gallantly in the Nigerian civil war, principally to preserve its sanctity as a leader the 3rd Marine Commando. History has recorded him

Alaafin accuses FG of marginalising S-West

By Ola Ajayi

BADAN — THE Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, weekend accused the Federal Government of marginalising South-West states in the distribution and sharing of political power and resources. Oba Adeyemi spoke during the closing ceremony of a week-long celebration of Oranyan festival, a progenitor of Yoruba in his palace. The monarch said it was unacceptable the way the zone had been sidelined despite invaluable role it had played in social, political and cultural life of the country. He said: “It would almost seem that the central government has decided to look away from Yorubaland in the allocation of resources and in political power sharing. This unfortunate situation of the Yoruba within the context of

the Nigerian state is no doubt disturbing, bearing in mind the enormous resources available in Yoruba world view to build the Nigerian nation. "In spite of our heroic contribution to the Nigerian nation, the Yoruba ethnic group is almost relegated to the background in the scheme of things in Nigeria.” The celebration of Oranyan has been a dingdong affair between Oyo town and the ancient IleIfe with the latter claiming to have exclusive rights to celebrate the deity. At the commencement of the third anniversary of the festival, Oyo monarch argued that it would be unthinkable for Ile-Ife to be laying claims to Oranyan when the dynasty of the deity remained in Oyo, insisting that there was no other city in Yoruba race where they had “Alaafin.”

well. His name cannot be easily forgotten in the history of modern day Nigeria,” the governor said.

Posterity 'll never forget him —Mimiko

On his part, Governor Mimiko described his death as the departure of a great soldier and a committed patriot. Mimiko in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Eni Akinsola, said posterity would always remember the late General as one of those who, through their patriotism and dedication to the service of their fatherland staked all to ensure that Nigeria remained one. He said “Death took him away at a time when this nation needs people like him to help provide workable solution to the present security challenge confronting our nation. “Posterity will never forget the late General for his contribution towards keeping this nation as one and paying the sacrifice for the unity we all enjoy today as a nation.”

FG should accord him his rightful place —Fasheun

On his part, founder of Oodua Peoples Congress, OPC, Dr. Fredrick Fasheun said: “I don’t know why Nigeria is losing its heroes lately. Adekunle is one of the heroes that we are not supposed to lose at this time of our life as a nation. It is sad. I hope the Federal Government will accord him his rightful place because he stood for this country.”

He was a patriot — Adeyeye

Prince Adeyeye Adeyeye, in his reaction said he was extremely saddened and pained by the news of his death, adding: “It can’t but be painful to have lost such a patriot and courageous soldier at this time when the country is contending with the Boko Haram insurgents."

14—Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Police arrest 4 for alleged assassination of ex-lawmaker By Chidi Nwokpara

WERRI—IMO State Police Command has arrested four persons over their alleged involvement in the assassination of a former member of Imo State House of Assembly, Mr. Kingsley Nkemka. The Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Mr. Andrew Enwerem, who confirmed the brutal killing of the Umunohaborn ex-lawmaker to newsmen in Owerri, also affirmed that the four suspects were currently being interrogated by the police to ascertain their level of culpability or innocence. “It is true that Kingsley Nkemka was assassinated last Tuesday. The police swung into action to unravel the mystery surrounding the heinous murder. “As I am talking with you now, four suspects are with the police undergoing interrogation,” the PPRO said. According to Mr. Enwerem, “the Command will stop at nothing to expose and prosecute those who killed the young man.” Late Nkemka, who was an aspirant for the Mbaitoli/Ikeduru

federal constituency on the platform of All Progressives Congress, APC, also served as one of the aides of the Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, Mr. Benjamin Uwajumogu. Meanwhile, angry reactions have started trailing the gruesome murder of Nkemka by suspected assassins. According to a statement of Uwajumogu’s media aide, Mr. Emeka Ahaneku, the deceased

had travelled to some of the electoral wards of his constituency in continuation of his meet-thepeople tour with party supporters to solicit support for his ambition. “He had a brief stop-over at a popular T-Junction at Ohaohia Mbieri, Mbaitoli local government area, to confer with one of his facilitators, who had earlier called him on phone around 8 or 9pm before the sad incident,” Ahaneku recounted wit grief.

Reacting also, Chief Maxwell Duru, who was speaker when Nkemka was a lawmaker, expressed shock over the murder of the former lawmaker. “I was shocked when I heard that he had been killed by yetto-be identified gunmen. Right now, I do not have personal details to know whether it was a case of assassination or not. “I am pleading with the law enforcement agencies to

2015: Igbo leaders give condition to support PDP in Lagos By Caleb Ayansina

BUJA—A coalition of Igbo leaders from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, has demanded the the deputy governorship slot in the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Lagos State as a precondition to support the People’s Democratic Party, PDP.. The coalition also added its voice to demand for

immediate removal of the chairman, Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Attairu Jega, over allocation of 30,000 new polling units across the country. The Igbo leaders, canvassing support for President Jonathan’s re-election,should he decide to recontest, also urged the federal government to protect the lives and properties of Igbo people throughout the federation, especially in the north, so as to guarantee electoral spread for President Goodluck Jonathan in

the 2015 presidential election. The coalition, under the auspices of ‘Goodluck Gaa Niru 2015’, stated this in a communique issued after it’s maiden national executive meeting in Abuja last weekend. Leader of the group, Kenneth Ibe-Kalu, who led other members of the group to read the communique, observed that President Jonathan secured the 25 per cent votes spread across the nation due to the massive presence of Igbo outside the South East.

Verification of FG projects begins in S'East, N'West By Chidi Nkwopara

W E R R I — BARRING any unforeseen circumstances, the Fiscal Responsibility Commission, FRC, will begin the physical verification of some selected Federal Government capital projects in the South East and North West geopolitical zones of the country today. Confirming this to Vanguard in Owerri yesterday, FRC Chairman, Prince Victor Muruako, disclosed that the total value of the projects to be verified in the two zones was N11.992 billion. “The capital projects to be verified in Imo State are sited in the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education, Owerri and the construction of river port at Oguta,” Muruako said.

MEMORIAL THANKSGIVING SERVICE AND FORMAL LAUNCH OF OLUSEGUN AGAGU FOUNDATION IN HONOUR OF THE FORMER GOVERNOR OF ONDO STATE IN IBADAN. Photos by Dare Fasube.

Chief (Mrs) Olufunke Agagu, widow of the late Agagu and Mr Feyi From left; Minister of Power, Prof Chinedu Nebo; Minister of Communication Agagu, son. Technology, Dr. (Mrs) Omobola Johnson and Senator Kunlere Boluwaji.

From left; Mr Ife Oyedele; Mr Akin Ajayi and Mr Gbenga Adefaye, GM Publication and Editor-in-Chief, Vanguard newspapers. C M Y K

Otunba Gbenga Daniel and Orangun of Oke Ila, Oba Adedokun.

Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014— 15

16 — Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014 DURING the 2014 emblem launching for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day activities, President Goodluck Jonathan requested the military authorities to submit a programme for enhanced welfare of retired armed forces personnel. Perhaps in response to this, the Per manent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, Alhaji Aliyu Ismaila, represented at the inauguration of the Remembrance Day National Planning Committee by Alhaji Babayo Shehu, unveiled a proposal for a housing project for retired members of the armed forces and families of fallen heroes. Though the programme is still on the drawing board, we are firmly in support of it. We encourage the Ministry to assist the Federal Government in creating such housing and other welfare packages that reflect the best models available anywhere. Housing is not just shelter to a typical African. It is more of a psychological symbol of achievement in the African man. The late African nationalist, Dr. Nelson Mandela, once declared that a man is not complete until he acquires his own house. In no part of Africa does this hold true more than

Housing F or For Ser vice V et erans Service Vet eterans Nigeria. It is befitting for any man or woman who embraces service in the armed forces to be rest assured that he or she will be rewarded with appropriate shelter for opting to lay down his or her life to protect our country and its citizens. It will spur them to greater service when they know that either in retirement or in the unfortunate situation of loss of life they or their families will not lack in decent shelter of their own. We must always reassure our armed forces and police personnel, who are there for us, that we appreciate their sacrifices and will never

toy with their welfare within available resources. We believe it is possible to create a special relevance for the engineers, architects and other construction professionals in the armed forces to show their expertise through research and implemen-tation of cost-effective housing projects. It will not only serve the needs of officers and men of the armed forces, it will also help in reducing the overwhelming housing deficits that the society at large suffers. A programme of keeping the construction professionals fully engaged will also serve as incentives for them and enable them to earn extra, dignified income. The upsurge of insurgency around the world, and here in Nigeria in particular, demands that we make service in our armed forces more rewarding and fulfilling than what the insurgents have to offer to miscreants who enlist to fight against us. The federal government must not only take up this challenge, it must also make it a showpiece that leaves no one in doubt about our appreciation for the sacrifices of our men and women under arms.

OPINION The excellent, special and the Nigerian factor By Tochukwu Ezukanma

NE of my recent articles, “The problem with the striking doctors”, elicited a number of responses from my readers. Some of them called me on the phone, some sent text messages and others sent e-mails. They were almost evenly divided between those who thought the article was apropos and those who thought it was impertinent, and even, senseless. One of them, most likely, a medical doctor, was evidently angered by the article; he was quite caustic in his text message. He wrote, “Whoever you are and to whichever paramedical profession you belong, till your death, unless, of course, you go to medical school (which I doubt much if at all your, obviously, dull brain can help you out) you will never earn the respect or the prestigious status of a House Officer. I do not know what a House Officer is but it must be one of the designations or titles of medical doctors. Deviating from my policy of not responding to rejoinders , I sent a text message thus: “I am not into any of the paramedical professions. My degrees are in Urban & Regional planning. Every element of freedom comes with a corresponding responsibility. So, the doctors’ respect and prestigious status should be associated with decency and elevated morals and ethics (on the part of the doctors). Lamentably, Nigerian doctors (sometimes) behave like brutes and sadists”.

Yes, every element of freedom, authority, power, prestige, etc is attended with a corresponding responsibility. But due to the Nigerian factor – lawlessness and its ancillaries: might is right, desiring glory without achievement, expecting harvest without plough, etc – we relish prestige, power and authority but abdicate their attendant responsibilities and obligations. So, instead of being humbled by the added obligations and demands of our eminent positions, we see our lofty status as license to further our selfish interests, abuse the system and exploit others. The Excellencies and the Honourables are the select few, elected to lead, and are, therefore, entrusted with the fate – life or death, happiness or tragedy, prosperity or poverty – of millions of people. As they are excellent and honorable, they should transcend societal vices, and the mediocrity and pedestrianism of convention life. They should be disciplined and content, and thus, not readily susceptible to the lures and sirens of life; and consequently, incorruptible and financially honest. They are also expected to be honourable enough to resign their offices when, for any reason, they fail to live up to the excellence demanded by their exalted offices or breech the public trust reposed in their offices. For example, in South Korean, the prime minister, Chung Hong-won, resigned over the government's dishonourable handling of a ferry sinking that has left more than 300 people dead or missing.

In Nigeria, the power elite fastidiously cling to sanctimonious titles, like the Excellency and the Honourable, while in words and deeds, they remain the mediocre and the dishonourable. At the total disregard of those who elected them to office and whom they supposedly serve, they exercise their powers in advancing narrow and selfish interests, exploiting the system and economically strangulating the masses. They waste public funds and maintain extravagant and luxurious lifestyles that will flabbergast even the powerful, rich and famous of the wealthiest countries in the world. They misconstrue their immunity for impunity. And thus, expect to do anything (and actually, do anything) and get away with it, because they are neither subject to the law nor beholden to the people. In the churches, the revered gentlemen, with the veneration and prestige of their offices, hold sway. Supposedly called (by God) and anointed, they pretend to be all knowing and flawless. But then, they, generally, fail to live up to the enormous responsibilities of their offices. To reinforce their powers and control over their members and to dispossess them of their money, they lie and twist the Word of God. Deliberately oblivious of the desperate, gateless poverty that dominates the lives of the generality of their members, they build their financial empire and maintain an awe-inspiring life style of magnificent mansions, fleet of luxury cars, private jets and the indulgence of other avaricious fancies. So, instead of leading people to the Truth, they lead them farther

away from the Truth. Not surprisingly, the more religious the Nigerian society becomes, the more it is full of hate, cruelty, lawlessness and violence. In spite of our excessive religiosity, is the Nigerian society, including the churches, not suffused with wickedness, selfishness and immorality? Like the excellent, honourable and revered, the special – the princes and princesses of the health professionals – that is, the Nigerian medical doctors, hardly live up to the demands and expectations of their lofty professional status. Paradoxically, although sworn to the Hippocratic Oath and with a leading role in an industry that is premised on compassion, kindness, altruism, etc, some Nigerian medical doctors, in their conduct, display mindboggling cold-heartedness, degradation of man and contempt for human lives. They are many substantiated stories detailing their cruelty, sadism and contemptuous indifference to human lives. In addition, engrossed by the get rich quick mentality of the Nigerian society, they jettison professional standards, and sometimes, break the law for quick money. There have been cases and allegations of downright criminality amongst the doctors. Like the Nigerian political and spiritual power elites and other Nigerians in positions of power and influence, it behooves the Nigerian medical doctors to not just revel in the prestige and glory of their profession but to also rise to the high morals and ethics demanded of their esteemed profession. *Mr. Ezukanma, a commentator on national issues, wrote from Lagos.

SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Mixed grill for businesses as Ebola impacts economy zOnline shops record increased patronage zAviation, hotels impacted negatively zLife goes on at social joints BY YINKA KOLAWOLE, LAWANI MIKAIRU, FRANKLIN ALLI, MICHAEL EBOH, PRINCEWILL EKWUJURU & JONAH NWOKPOKU

he incidence of the Ebola virus disease (EVD) brought into Nigeria on July 25 by the late Liberian-American, Patrick Sawyer, has elicited different reactions from operators on its possible impact on business activities in the country. Investigations carried out by

Financial Vanguard revealed that while some sectors have reported downturns in business as a result of the EVD incidence, others have recorded significant upsurge in patronage while there are some cases of business as usual. Online shopping up significantly Findings of the investigations show that, as a result of the EVD scourge, frequent shoppers have turned to online shopping for their groceries, clothing and sanitary items. Online retailer, Jumia.com said it has recorded a tremendous increase in online shopping patronage since the

incidence of EVD in Nigeria. According to Jumia, within weeks of the incidence, it has noticed a major increase in online demand for products like sanitary and protective products such as hand wash, hand sanitisers, bleaches, contraceptives, etc. “Everyone is out to protect him or herself and prevent the spread around their environment. Jumia has recorded about 50 per cent increase in number of new customers, not only for sanitary products which have sold more than 5,000 in the past few weeks. More new customers have signed up and started buying all products from Jumia with

triple increase in traffic from major cities in Nigeria,” it said. Speaking on the increase, Managing Director of Jumia Nigeria, Jeremy Doutte, said: “We have seen a massive increase in number of new customers on our website and it is encouraging to see people are taking the awareness of EVD in Nigeria seriously with less exposure to public places. Jumia has also seen an increase in company’s growth from an average of 15 per cent to over 40 per cent monthly growth average. The markets have less people and for us, we are out to satisfy our customers because it reduces the stress of going through traffic in major cities, also

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MEETING: Head of Service, Dr. Danladi Kifasi (r), listening to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Mr. Mohammed Dikko (2nd l) while the Commandant-General, National Security & Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Dr. Ade Abolurin (l); DG, National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP), Dr. Umar Bindir (2nd r); DG, NAFDAC, Dr. Paul Orhii (3rd l) and others during a meeting between the Presidency and government's revenue-generating agencies at the State House, Abuja. Photo by Abayomi Adeshida C M Y K

18 — Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Cover Story

Why people fail in their business

Mixed grill for businesses as Ebola impacts economy having to worry about direct contact to reduce the spread of the EVD.” Also, another online retailer, Kaymu, said since the report of EVD in Lagos, it has recorded a sharp rise in purchase of sanitary products by Lagosians. The retailer said this can be attributed to the prompt actions taken by the authorities to educate the general public about the severity of the virus and the continuous coverage of the situation by local and foreign media. Kaymu said online search for hand sanitisers on its platform has increased by 130 per cent in the past week and sales of hand washes and lotions have also increased significantly. Managing Director of Kaymu Nigeria, Evangeline Wiles, said: “It is very encouraging to see that the general public, especially Lagosians, are taking the news of this outbreak seriously. L agosians and Nigerians in general are advised to take the precautionary measures communicated by health officials, such as frequently washing hands, to ensure the virus is contained and possibly eradicated.” Another online retailer, Konga, said in addition to the steady increase in patronage, it has also recorded significant increase in sales of sanitary products. Speaking to Financial Vanguard, Konga’s Head of Marketing, Gabriel GabUmoden, said: “The Eboladriven products like hand sanitisers have seen an increase in patronage in our online shops. Also, most sellers in the marketplace are also importing these sanitary products and looking to sell them online because of the increase in demand.” Online foreign hotel bookings suffer cancellation A check on other online related businesses like hotel bookings also revealed that while travels within the C M Y K

country have not been affected; online hotel bookers have seen cancellations in foreign bookings. Speaking on the impact, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Hotels.ng, Mark Essien, said the EVD incidence has not had any significant impact on their turnover, especially in relation to Nigerian travellers, but noted that they have seen some cancellation of foreign hotel bookings as a result of the Ebola scourge. “From our earnings, it has not made any significant difference but we have begun to see several cancellations. But these cancellations are mainly from our foreign bookings. They send emails requesting the cancellation of their bookings because of Ebola. If not for Ebola, I am sure we would have recorded more bookings but it still has not affected our turnover in terms of total volume because we are focused on Nigerian travellers. This is completely unlike what obtains in countries like Kenya where the tourists do not want to visit the country again because of the situation there. But in Nigeria, it is the foreign

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With regards to the impact of Ebola on online businesses, it depends on the industry the business operates in; eventhough there has been a lot of expected panic resulting from the spread of Ebola in Nigeria, some businesses have actually seen a boom in their transactions

related businesses that would be affected. It has definitely not helped us because we would have recorded more bookings if not for the Ebola,” he stated. Also speaking, another hotel booker, Jovago.com, said: “With regards to the impact of Ebola on online businesses, it depends on the industry the business operates in. Even though there has been a lot of expected panic resulting from the spread of Ebola in Nigeria, some businesses have actually seen a boom in their transactions. An example is e-commerce, because people have become more wary of going to busy shopping malls or markets in a bid to limit human contacts — more people have now resorted to making purchases of groceries, cosmetics, clothes and such online.” Speaking to Financial Vanguard, Jovago’s Head, Marketing and PR, Chinelo Ngene, said: “The travel industry is another sector that has remained largely unaffected by the scourge. The truth is that people have to travel despite the situation, and so long as people protect themselves by washing hands regularly and restricting bodily contact, there should be nothing to fear. At Jovago.com, because we make it easy for people to book hotels online, it has been business as usual as people have continued to book hotels within Nigeria. There has been a lag with foreigners coming into Nigeria but again, our primary market is actually Nigerians,” she stated. Lull in cross-border transactions Nigeria, which this year surpassed South Africa as the continent’s largest economy, has been credited for effectively containing the impact of the Ebola epidemic, which at this point appears confined to two cities, Lagos and Port Harcourt. However, there seems to be

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tarting your own business can yield amazing rewards but at the same time, it’s a pretty big risk. One of the biggest reasons why people fail is that they enter into a business and do not have profitable market. They may like what they are doing but they are not making money. One of the keys is to do something you are passionate about, but if you can’t monetize it, then it is not a line of business you may want to go into. It is necessary to carry out research before you build up a business. At one time or another, we have all fantasized about creating our own business and being successful entrepreneurs. It is exciting to consider the possibilities but then, fear creeps in. We have all heard stories about people who started their own business full of hope and faith, only to fail miserably while losing some good hard earned cash. Let us take a look at some of the underlying causes that are not always discussed. You might be surprised to hear that the lack of money is not the main reason for failure; there are several reasons why people fail in business: The “copy cat” factor: Many people go into business or make a business choice because they also think they can be successful in it. Many people fail because of this reason. You have to put into consideration that what works for “Mr. A” may not be applicable to “Mr. B” and it is better to go along with your own idea and instinct instead of trying to be like someone else. This is wrong. Lack of discipline and consistency: Most people get the idea that they can make millions by simply starting their own business. Developing the discipline and consistency necessary to be successful in any endeavour is part of what makes success so sweet. There are not many accidental success stories. It takes tremendous discipline to be successful in anything including a business. It is like getting in shape or going to college. You will not make it through college if you only study one day in each semester. Once you know what is required daily, learn to discipline yourself and be consistent. Amazingly, consistency and discipline not

only elevate you to higher levels of success, they also make your work so much easier! Lack of personal growth: Most people have it backwards. They think that one becomes a millionaire and then starts thinking like one. But it is the other way round. Before you can be successful, you have to think like a successful person. Your thoughts, words, and your imagination will affect whether you succeed or fail. Personal development of your attitude and communication skills is a must. It is hard work and it takes discipline. You will have a hard time succeeding without protecting and working on your attitude. This is especially true after some failures. This is a learned skill. It is also applicable in business. Lack of direction/plan: Most people that start a business have little or no idea how to succeed. Therefore, it

PROMO DRAW: From left, Head, Lagos Office, Consumer Protection Council, Tam Tamunokonbia, Executive Director, Shared Services, Fidelity Bank Plc, Chijioke Ugochukwu, Regional Bank Head, Victoria Island Regional Bank, Emeka Obiagwu, Head, Enforcement and Compliance, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Joy Okuna and Head, Regulation and Monitoring, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Daniel Onyemenam at the Fidelity Bank Save4 Scholarship Savings Promo Draw in Lagos.

One of the keys is to do something you are passionate about, but if you can’t monetize it, then it is not a line of business you may want to go into

is extremely inportant to find a consultant who has the time and experience to guide you through the maze, step by step. Be sure this person will actually have (or make) the time for you. Sit down with hem and create a plan of attack, set realistic goals and then learn everything you can to help you succeed in your business choice. Wrong Expectations: People are being sold the idea that all you need to do is get into business and the money starts rolling in without doing anything. Sometimes it is the person’s fault because they only hear what they want to hear or they think they know better. Bottom line, building a successful business is not a 60-yard dash but a marathon.

Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014 — 19

On June 27, 2011, we stated that creating additional state is not economical because it will increase the cost of governance in the country without any increase in the revenue base of the nation. Unfortunately, the just-concluded National Conference has recommended the creation of additional 18 states. This will bring the number of states in the country to 54. Just last week, the Senate President said he is committed to seeing through state creation. Here is what I said then.

David Mark, no to state creation; it's not economical into account the ability of these states to sustain their existence. Of the 36 states in the country, only Lagos, Rivers and perhaps Kano states, can through internally-generated revenue pay their bills. Others have to wait for the monthly federal allocation for them to pay their bills. The internally-generated revenue of the existing states in the country cannot even pay the monthly wage bill of teachers in the various states. Some local governments are known to have generated not more than one million naira in a year. In the face of this, the Senate President is quoted as saying that more states will be created in the life of the seventh National Assembly. Senate President, David Mark, was quoted last week to have said that the National Assembly remained committed to amending the 1999 Constitution to give room for the creation of more states in Nigeria. Senator Mark, who gave the assurance in his home town, Oturkpo, maintained that state creation was a certainty because the National Assembly was confident that the creation of more states would enhance development and bring government closer to the people. It will appear that the Senate President is oblivious of the cry of Nigerians against the high cost of governance in the country that has robbed the people of the much needed

When on May 27 1967, General Yakubu Gowon announced the 12-state structure for Nigeria, it was to solve a perceived political problem threatening the continued existence of Nigeria as a single entity. It was a political solution to the threat of secession. Gowon was humble enough to point out the economic consequences the nation was faced with if the action was not taken. He had said: “The consequence of these illegal sets has been the increasing deterioration of the Nigerian economy. “It has also led to increasing loss of foreign confidence in the ability of Nigerians to resolve the present problems. This has been reflected in the stoppage of the inflow of much badly needed additional foreign investment, it has put a brake on economic development so essential to the well-being of the common man and the ordinary citizen whose only desire is for peace and stability to carry on his daily work. “The main obstacle to future stability in this country is the present structural imbalance in the Nigerian federation. This is why the item in the Political and Administrative Programme adopted by the Supreme Military Council last month is the creation of states as a basis for stability.” The much desired unity, economic development and inflow of foreign investment have continued to elude the country several decades after the first shot at state creation. Ever since then, the politics of state creation has not taken

As these states are established, a new Revenue Allocation Commission consisting of international experts will be appointed to recommend an equitable formula for revenue allocation taking into account the desires of the states

funds for development. Creation of more states will further raise the already high cost of governance in the country. When new states are created, the membership of the National Assembly will increase by the proportion of the increase in the number of states. Each additional member of the National Assembly will bring additional cost to the nation.

By CBN Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi’s revelation recently, the National Assembly spends 25 per cent of the overhead cost of running the Federal Government. When more states are created, the National Assembly overhead will jump to 30 or 40 per cent of total overhead. This certainly is not economical for the nation. Each of the states to be created will become a new cost centre to the federation account. The newly created states will need fresh civil service of their own, a legislature, governor, aides to the governor, commissioners, local governments etc. All these are new cost centres to the federation. At the moment, both the federal and state governments spend close to 70 per cent of their annual budgets on salaries and cost of running the government. There is little or nothing left for infrastructure and other social services. The result is the high level of underdevelopment in the country. As at last week, existing state governments are crying out aloud that they cannot pay the N18,000 minimum wage approved for civil servants by the Federal Government. They thus call for a new revenue allocation that will allocate more resources from the federation account to them. The big issue is: Why are Nigerian politicians not

talking of how to develop more revenue channels to increase available resources for distribution but just how to share what is available by accident of nature? Revenue allocation became contentious the very day General Gowon set in motion the machinery for state creation. In his May 27, 1967 speech he said: “As these states are established, a new Revenue Allocation Commission consisting of international experts will be appointed to recommend an equitable formula for revenue allocation taking into account the desires of the states.” As new states are created, new revenue allocation formula is evolved. The irony is that as more states are created, the share of the states from the federation account diminishes. Because politicians feel the big purse is always there to grab from, they continue in the agitation for state creation to placate the undiscerning citizenry, knowing full well that these states are not viable. Nigeria does not need additional states. Creating unviable states will create more economic problems for the nation. In fact, Nigeria should be thinking of consolidating the existing states by collapsing them into the present six geopolitical zones. This will allow for a true federalism to emerge as each zone will have to develop its internal resources to empower and develop the area in their jurisdiction, not the creation of additional states that will be perpetual liability.

Cover Story

Mixed grill for businesses as Ebola impacts economy Continues from page 18

Adamu, an electronics dealer in Nigeria.

a lull in inter-border trade with Nigeria as a result of EVD. A Nigerian Customs official told a foreign news portal that revenue from import duties of used vehicles has declined drastically. Part of the reason is that increased surveillance for the disease at land borders — including quarantines for those with high fevers — has slowed trade and potential customers to a trickle, the official, who declined to be identified because he wasn’t authorised to speak to the media, said. This is not limited to cars. “Many of my customers from neighbouring countries have stopped coming. When I try to reach out to them on the phone, they complain of stringent Ebola screening measures,” said Yusuf

Aviation sector feels the pinch The EVD incidence in Nigeria has led to a drop in patronage in the aviation sector in the country. Several airlines including Arik Air, Asky, British Airways and Emirates have since suspended flight operations to and from the Ebola affected countries. Arik Air, for instance, suspended operations to countries like Sierra-Leone and Liberia, resulting in huge financial loss to the airline. Captain Ado Sanusi, Deputy Managing Director and Head of Flight Operations of Arik Air, recently said the cancellation of flight operations to some West African countries by the airline has had negative economic impact on the airline and the affected countries.

Sanusi, however, said he cannot put figures to Arik’s loss as a result of the cancellation of flights. “We are losing revenue because of daily flights. We have about four flights to Liberia and about three flights to Freetown (Sierra Leone) and we were connecting Ghana with Freetown. We were also connecting Ghana with Monrovia and Banjul, so there are a lot of economic activities that are going on within West Africa, which now is not being done. Of course, there will be economic loss there as movement will be restricted,” he said. Sanusi also said the cancellation of flights to the affected countries has further shrunk the economies of the affected countries. “You are talking about the airport, the

catering, handling companies, the airlines, oil marketers that are supplying Jet A1 to them. It will affect the entire economy of that sub-sector. We will see a reduction in the countries that are affected,” he added. An official of another airline who pleaded anonymity said patronage of airports in the country, particularly in states where the EVD has been confirmed, has reduced by about 50 per cent and citizens were becoming apprehensive whenever they visit any airport. The official further said that foreigners were skeptical about visiting Nigeria, a development that had “severely dragged down the revenues of many carriers.” According to a recent report, many airline bookings in the

hospitality and tourism sectors in Lagos State, Nigeria’s commercial capital, had been cancelled by in-bound travellers due to the Ebola scare. “This is not surprising since India and Greece have openly advised their citizens to avoid non-essential travels to Nigeria and other Ebola-

affected countries. It is estimated that restaurant visits

in Lagos have already declined by 50 per cent,” the report stated. It further said air transport was 0.09 per cent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product in the first quarter and the second most used means of transport after road. “We expect revenues in the aviation sector to plunge downwards, which will affect both the airlines and the support industries, including

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20 — Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

National ID Card Interview

New national ID card is a smart, multipurpose card L

ast week Chris Oyemena, the Director General of the National Identity Management Commission was in Lagos to brief senior editors of major newspapers in the country of the progress made in the drive for Nigerian to hold a new national identity card. He said the new ID card is a smart card that will promote financial inclusion in the country among other uses. Excerpts What is the major difference between the old and this new national ID card? The major difference or one single difference is that this one is a smart card, is an intelligent card, let me use that word, but the previous one is not a smart card, is a 2D barcode and whilst the previous one was based on cards as an ends in itself, this new card is just one of the component of a broader scheme that enables you to affirm your identity. One challenge about National ID cards is the question of non Nigerians smuggle into holding the card, how are you ensuring that only those identified as Nigerians will get this new national ID card. There is obvious reasons why this is a daunting challenge because around us, aside from the sea, is all neighbouring countries that their GDP and standard of life is something that they will always want to claim to be Nigerians. Even in football they did it and do not forget is a fellow Nigerian that helped that footballer that is alleged to hold a Nigerian passport and yet he is not a Nigerian. The point is that this challenge will always be there and is real. What we done in view of the fact that we have our borders the way they are? I do not need to explain that to you, you know. What we have done is to use what is reasonably available in such a manner as not to discourage enrolment, we use traditional rulers, when they introduce, we use birth certificates, we use combination of your declaration of age, certificate of indigeneship, letter from a senior citizen, international passport, drivers licence to confirm your claims that you are a Nigerian. C M Y K

Even if you do not have any of these, it is important to note that our people, particularly those in those areas where border towns are not too far off, we try to understand the way you speak, we know some of the addresses and some of the claims you fill out are some of the things that the enrolment officers have been trained because even aside from Federal character, the fact that in catchments area we have recruited people that can help us bring some of these knowledge, skills and understanding into play in the enrolment process. There are certain questions that are asked when they see your name, there are certain questions that are asked when they hear your voice and therefore it is possible for you to question in a polite manner and any one they are not satisfied with, the enrolment centre supervisor then takes it over. In every enrolment centre there is an immigration officer to confirm whether you are a Nigerian or not. It is not that we cannot register non Nigerians but there are conditions for registering them; they must be legal residence and their document issued by Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and they are on ground to confirm that yes, this is issued by us. The important thing in all of these is that it is not our responsibility to confirm citizenship but it is our responsibility to establish identity, even if it is the identity of a non Nigerian, so that all the benefits especially security, you can take advantage of the data base to do it because non Nigerians also commit crimes. What is the update on the President directive that there should be harmonization of biometrics data in Nigeria? Part of the update is what we have done and I have discussed, which is that we have fibre connections to 14 of them that we consider critical in terms of meeting the threshold of identity data that is considered significant to warrant the fibre connections, others are web service. On the cards that we are distributing there are outlets that address the issue of harmonisation with these institutions, about eight of them. Thirdly, we are now in the process of taking each component of their own process and saying this should be tweaked this way and it will

become part of our process, this should be discontinued because this process is enough, so that requires painstaking processes and we have different committees of between three and five for each of them. Periodically the harmonisation and integration implementation committee meets to monitor how work is going, before we did all of that, the card, the fibre connection, and this scripting that we are talking about, we sat down at several meeting and agreed on the business rule, agreed on a uniform demographic standard and uniform standard that is now being implemented. It is through these four approaches that the integration will take off. For some people it will take off earlier and for others it will take off much later, it is in that sense that, for instance, the bank verification number capture, will not continue that way, they are going to stop what they are doing, adjust it to fit what we are doing before they continue. What measures have you put in place to encourage other banks to buy in into the project? As I speak, 13 banks have signed agreement with us, all of them have agreement, some have submitted, some haven’t. All of them have indicated

BY OMOH GABRIEL

On the cards that we are distributing there are outlets that address the issue of harmonisation with these institutions, about eight of them

interest we have accepted their interest. Central Bank by a letter specifically said to us, please encourage and ensure that all payment platforms and all deposit money banks are given the opportunity to participate and as I speak at least 10 have

Chris Oyemena

executed their agreement and like I said, we have decided that in doing the pilot, lets not take so many banks, take one, so when you have understood the process very well and done it very well, you can then replicate. Are you under any form of pressure from other payment platform like Visa? Well you could see it from this way, if local payment platforms feel that Master card is a foreign company and complain, it must be in the sequence because the pilot project is being done with Master card, but not that they are not part of this scheme. Don’t you think it is better to bring this thing nearer the people by creating more centre especially in Lagos? In Lagos, Onotsha and Anambra State, we have that increasing challenge, but before now our problem was that we did not have enough people coming out, so we currently are handling it. Let us not forget the fact that data collection as a part of the names value chain was actually

suppose to have been a private sector supported thing, it was concession out. The concessionaires have not performed thus far and what you see is government’s intervention which has enable us to prove even to those who committed to lend and reneged that the project is real, it does happen and we can do it. So what we are doing now is to ensure that these pockets of increasing turnout can be quickly addressed. Who are the concessionaires? We have Charms Consultant Limited, One Secure Cards Limited. How much would have been invested in that project? Is a concession, and you know in a concession there is usually a period of time revenue projection, cost projection and typically you expect that oat will be taken along. What has happened is that the economic recession affected the initial projections and it hasn’t really been possible to reorganise and rejig the figures and in the main time government then

Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 21

National ID Card Interview that is registered and known for doing that kind of business which is equated to cash evacuation is engaged to help us move the cards because the security is of utmost important to us. When it then gets to our card collection centre, there is an activation officer, when you come with your transaction slip and show your name, (the slip contains your name and other information) they will look for your own envelop, sealed and give it to you and require you to open it, take it out, turn the back and sign and then you will be required to activate the card there and then. That

The card is being treated the way ATM cards are treated. In fact more than that, because the requirement is that transportation is under very secure environment

activation has three reasons: to ensure that it is properly personalised; make it usable within the verification infrastructure and third which is optional, is for you to activate the EMV, the payment outlet and then you go with the card.

intervened to help answer some of the questions that lenders began to ask in the face of the impact of the economic recession and this was some years ago. I hope that our expectation is that now that the card has been launched, and they are seeing the turn out because the turnout is now beginning to seem as if we did not plan and we planned, in fact we brought forward the card issuance as a way of jump starting turnout, so we expected this turnout and it appears as if the way we plan to deal with it is now not as fast as the response by people. When will the distribution start? The card distribution has started in Abuja and we will take it to the various states because we have activation centre in each enrolment centre. The card is being treated the way ATM cards are treated. In fact more than that, because the requirement is that transportation is under very secure environment. When it is coming into the country there is a transportation pin, so if you steal the card you can not use it without the transportation pin. When we finish the personalization, it is securely kept within our facility which is certified for that. When we then want to move it to various locations, a company

The CBN regulated bank verification is on, can you expanciate on it because is in conflict with what you are doing, is like you and the CBN are competing, what have you agreed with CBN? CBN is the financial authority in Nigeria, NIMC is the national identity authority in Nigeria, two clear mandates, what is being worked out now is with the CBN project, is how the data that they are collecting will be submitted to the National Identity Management Commission in the contest of harmonization. How their data collection will ensure that the biometrics is submitted to the only institution that has that responsibility and how we will then give them the unique identification number with which they can then organize their data base of bank account holders. There is no mistake about that, the CBN or banks have no authority whatsoever to keep biometric data and so what they are doing, Mr. President has been very unequivocal about it, discontinue what you are doing, find a way of modifying it and keying into the NIMC infrastructure because it has been clearly stated the primary data base responsibility statutory and constitutional is the NIMC, there are no two ways about it. Charms is actually the one driving the biometric project for the banks and I think it is based

on the premise of that investment they were suppose to make, am wondering is it an after thought or? Charms Consultant Limited was appointed a partner for three reasons in the National Identity Management System; collect data, issue cards and conduct identity verification services. This has not progressed as expected, I have explained that, the bank verification number project is a baby of the CBN under the auspices of Bankers committee and I know it was a contract awarded to Demalog of Germany. I understand that they have Charms Plc not Charms Consortium as their partner and that they are involved in the process. They are two different things, Charms Consortium Limited is known to NIMC as a partner of NIMC and Charms Plc is known to CBN as a partner of Demalog, I do not know the relationship. In view of Mr. Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s directive, BVN as it is stated will adjust their biometric data when it comes to NIMC, but we keep demographic data as we give them the means they will use it to do what they want to do, they have no responsibility for verification using biometric, they have no responsibility for keeping biometrics and that is very clear. How are you addressing the issue of apathy to the project? There are three things to it, the gentle man who says he does not know anything about the card, I know he has some reservations, secondly, we knew about this apathy and we have addressed it to the point where when people enrolled they said I have enrolled but am looking for my card. So we have sufficiently driven home the fact that the number is your identity, and we know also that people want the card. We saw that the turnout was not encouraging, we did a small survey and we came to the conclusion that if we fast track, if we bring forward card issuance, that it will help to address the apathy and now you personally said to me that there is always a large turnout, when that place was opened, the turn out was a sorry tale. The turnout am talking about are those at home, who feel free Excuse me sir, those at home are the majority of Nigeria and they are the residue because they hold the remnant of any apathy or enthusiasm, they are the ones whose actions help define every other thing. When you get home as a working parent and your wife is a housewife doing nothing, and you say how you are and she says fine, the tendency is to recount any experience that she had whilst you were not around. If it were to be an experience at our enrolment centre that was good, it will help you in shaping opinion when you go out because is an important home truth that was recounted for you. For us, if we are able to take care of the rural dwellers, the urban dwellers that are at home, we will take the rest, the rest are the people whom we have already addressed within the first enrolment centres in capitals and so every effort should be made to take it down.

22 — Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Banking & Finance

First Bank’s business model has repositioned it for growth zSays Adeduntan, CFO, First Bank charged each time you make withdrawal from another bank's ATM. So somebody needed to be compensated for that. But the fundamental thing is that when you withdraw from the ATMs belonging to your own bank, it is actually free and when you withdraw up to a certain limit even from other banks’ ATMs, it is also free. So what the CBN has done is not to reverse as claimed but most importantly, to prevent abuses. People just go in frequently to take N500, and N500. etc, there is a cost of service and to maintain the machine also costs money. So, really the fundamental message that I would like to covey is that the usage of ATM remains essentially free when you use the ATM of your own bank. And even when you are in location where the nearest ATM is not the one from your own bank, it is still free up to a certain number of times. So I think that is the most important thing. So, what has been the impact on your bank in terms of withdrawal by customers since the introduction of the ATM charge? It is very early days. As you probably know, First Bank is truly the leader as far as ATM is concern. We actually own about 25 per cent of the ATM machines in the entire network. Truly speaking, for our own customers, they are able to access our machines at virtually all the critical locations and we were very strategic when we positioned our ATMs from the word go such that in most cases, we expect our customers to have an ATM relatively close to wherever it is to withdraw cash. Let me also highlight that in addition to ATM, this

r. Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan is the Executive Director/ Chief Financial Officer, First Bank Nigeria Limited. He was appointed to the Board in 2014 as Chief Financial Officer. Before this appointment, he was a Director and the pioneer Chief Financial Officer of Africa Finance Corporation. He has served as Senior VicePresident & Chief Financial Officer of Citibank Nigeria Limited and was previously a Senior Manager in the Financial Services Group of KPMG Professional Services where he managed high profile assurance, financial and risk advisory engagements. In this interview, he speaks on issues affecting the banking sector as well as activities of the bank. Excerpts: What is your bank doing in terms of increased regulatory headwinds? The first critical point I would like to make is the fact that regulation is a key component of banking all over the world. The ability of financial institutions to survive and to survive very well depends significantly on the ability to manage regulatory issues, regulatory pronouncement and be able to ramp their business strategy around exploiting such regulatory pronouncement and challenges. So in our own case, it is true that there has been significant regulatory headwinds over the past three months, we have responded by tinkering with our business model and we have repositioned our business in such a way and manner that enables us to continue to grow despite all those regulatory challenges. One of those regulatory pronouncements by the CBN is the introduction of ATM charges, what is your take on this? First and foremost, let me explain to you that withdrawal by customers from the ATMs owned by their banks continues to be free. That key point is very important. If you are a customer of First Bank, you can come and make withdrawals from our ATMs as many times as possible and there will be no charge. But where the challenges set in is when they go to other banks’ ATMs to make withdrawal, then they will be charged. But even then, it is only when they withdraw more than three times that they will be charged. The way it works is that your bank gets

Part of the strategic objective of the new Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, is to ensure that over a period of time, the interest rate regime in the economy goes down

zDr. Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan, Executive Director/ Chief Financial Officer, FirstBank

By PETER EGWUATU

We are fully working with the central bank to promote this particular agenda because it makes the economy more efficient and effective

bank in line with modern trend has also embarked on providing alternative channels to most of our customers. We have online banking, mobile banking that enables people to sit in the comfort of their homes, shops or offices and execute transactions. Again, in line with development of technology, people also need not physically visit either the bank’s branch or ATM for them to carry out banking transactions. This is fully in line with the cashless policy of the CBN and as the largest financial institution in Nigeria, we are fully working with the CBN to promote this particular agenda because it makes the economy more efficient and effective. Afrinvest recently launched a banking report which shows that First Bank has high assets base and with a high exposure to oil and gas and telecommunications,

what is the bank doing to ensure that what happened in the past that led to crash in the banking system does not repeat? First Bank is a bank that is managed very prudently. We do have a very strong governance structure, starting with our Board of Directors, which has very strong and knowledgeable people. We also have a strong executive management team under the leadership of our group managing director. What that does is that we have the platform and we have the knowledge and the technical base to be able to embark on those kinds of lending that we have embarked upon. We do have a very robust credit risk management system and framework. We have our credit strategy, we also do have a proactive credit risk management policy that limits our

exposure by business sector, by geography, by products and by customers. What all these policies and framework do is that they essentially cap our exposure within sectors, within sub-sectors and to certain categories of obligors. What I am saying in essence is that even though we are the largest bank in Nigeria, those exposures that you are seeing have been prudently determined, evaluated and they all fall within our internal benchmarks for those sectors. It is also very important to highlight the fact that a bank cannot exist in a vacuum. The balance sheet of a bank would be a reflection of the opportunities that are available in domestic economy. So, for example, you should be surprised if you suddenly see First Bank lending into sector that is non-existent in Nigeria; suddenly, you have 5 per cent exposure to Diamond and Diamond is not something that is existing in the country. But if you look at all the sectors you have mentioned according to the report, they are critical sectors of the economy. Oil and gas is the back bone of our country, Telecomms in the last 10 to 12 years has become one of the most dominant sectors of the economy and one of the sectors that has demonstrated potential growth opportunity that is possible in this economy if we continue to pursue the kind of transformation agenda that the current government has been pursuing. The same thing with the manufacturing sector. The success story of Nigeria is the reemergence of the middle class and for the middle class, the most important thing is that they have the disposable income and because they have the disposable income, they also need to have goods and services. What are we manufacturing? Cement, fast good consumer goods and because of the critical mass, looking at the population of the country, that is why manufacturing would continue to be a key sector and as the leading bank in Nigeria, we can’t but continue to lend to the manufacturing sector because that is part of the bedrock of the economy.

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Banking & Finance By BABAJIDE KOMOLAFE

he Managing Director of IEIAnchor Pension Managers, Solomon Okoli has assured shareholders that the company has overcome its teething problems and is now positioned for sustainable growth and profitability. Consequently, Okoli told the shareholders at the company's first annual general meeting in Abuja last week that at the moment, the company has extended operations to 30 states of the federation, servicing over 75,000 customers and managing a couple of states’ staff pension. Already, shareholders of the company have voted to increase the company’s share capital from N2.222 billion to N3 billion in a move to accommodate increasing strategic partners’ interests that could help expand the business further. The company, within eight years grew shareholders’ funds more than eight folds from N150 million in 2005 to N1.240 billion in 2013, stressing that expansion efforts so far have repositioned the company for better performance even as the half year results have shown. The chief executive said that the long-term plan of the company is to be among tier one PFAs inNigeria, with the threshold of a minimum of N100 billion in assets under management. He explained that the cost of expansion had eaten into the company’s revenue and consequently, profit and was confident of the company’s outlook.

CBN reschedules MPC meeting

AGM: From left, Olufemi Onoru, Company Secretary, IEI Anchor Pension Managers Limited, Senator Jonathan Zwingina, Chairman and Solomon Nwora Okoli, MD/CEO during the annual general meeting and presentation of financial statement for the year 2012/2013 in Abuja.

IEI-Anchor Pension targets N3bn share capital …Foresees higher performance in 2014 “Our expansion may not be profitable immediately, but as we scale up over time, we will get through this and we are already seeing this in 2014. We are already seeing a lot of improvements. “We are seeing some of the locations that we opened last year being more profitable now. We are expanding our customer base, and the contribution level is beginning to yield and adding to the bottom line,” Okoli stated.

According to him, part of the expansion strategies is to raise the company’s share capital to N3 billion in order to be positioned for possible acquisition moves. “People outside are beginning to see the opportunities out there and they are getting interested in what we are doing and want to come in to be part of us. If we do not increase our share capital, cannot accommodate such people to be part of the company. So we want to have the flexibility and use the capital

E-payment has improved Onne ports operations — MUNIR, PORT MANAGER BY GODFREY BIVBERE

ort Manager of Onne Port, Umar Munir, has said that the introduction of e-payment by the authority’s management has helped in improving operations at the ports. Disclosing this in his office, Umar said that the introduction of e-payment has helped to reduce cargo clearing time as well as ship turn around time at the port. He pointed out that in the past, importers and their agents had to return to the port after making payment for confirmation. He explained that NPA still

had to contact the banks to ensure that payment was actually made, thereby causing delay in both cargo and ship dwell time. He stressed that it is only then that the authority can issue receipt for the payment. Umar explained that a command and control center recently set up at the head office had made information about ship position at the various ports across the country known. He noted that the center can effectively monitor and control any form of delay at the berths in any port. This, he noted, has resulted in much improvement on vessel and cargo traffic which

means improvement in revenue that comes in and improvement in turnaround of vessels. He said that the capacity utilisation of the port has hit 85 per cent with near completion of phase 4 infrastructural development. He pointed out the contract for phase 4B has also been signed by the Federal Government with Intels Nigeria Limited. He disclosed that they talk directly with their customers and potential ones to come directly to them, particularly those in the oil and gas sector, bearing in mind that this port is designated oil and gas free zone that specializes in handling oil and gas-related businesses.

to expand the business,” he said of the company’s new share capital. “The other thing is to give room for the strategic acquisition. For some of the acquisitions, it is not everybody that want to partner with you can just take cash and walk away. They may also want to part of the owners, therefore, they need that room to also give them a stake. “The other thing is that if Pension Commission requires PFAs to increase capital, we have the flexibility to adapt faster than those that will start the process when it happens, so we want to be prepared. “Finally, for our employees, we want to give some of them a sense of ownership as part of our reward system, which includes the option to be part of the company,” Okoli added. Silas Jonathan Zwingina chairman of the company said despite decline in revenue in 2013, a modest profit-after-tax of N12.8 million was recorded, however, lower than the N54 million in 2012, assuring that the company was on track for third consecutive year of profitability.

he Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, has disclosed that its Monetary Policy Committee, CMC for September has been rescheduled. According to a statement signed by Ibrahim Muazu, Director, Corporate Communications, CBN, the 240th meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee earlier scheduled to hold on September 22 and 23, 2014, is now to hold on Thursday, September 18 and Friday, September 19, 2014. He stated that the apex bank regrets any inconveniences that the change of date might cause any stakeholder concerned. According to Muazu: “All critical stakeholders are to take note of the change in dates and adjust their calendar. Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Nigeria wishes to apologies for the inconveniences that may be caused by the change of date.”

Sterling Bank customers access quick cash through Facebook, Twitter

terling Bank has again set a standard in online transactions with the disbursement of quick cash to over 2,000 online customers under the Social Lender scheme. The scheme was launched by the bank two months ago and the bank has received over 3,000 applications out of which 2000 have been processed. Social Lender, a first in Nigeria, is a peer-to-peer lending solution using Twitter and Facebook social media channels as they play a significant role in influencing decision-making among young Nigerians. The scheme is open to all Sterling Bank Account holders with provisions made for nonaccount holders to apply through the Sterling Bank Mobile Money application. Speaking on how Social Lender works, the bank’s Group Head, Strategy & Communications, Mr. Shina Atilola explained that users who make requests via the Social Lender website are rated by the algorithm that calculates their social reputation. C M Y K

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Corporate Finance By PETER EGWUATU & NKIRUKA NNOROM

DN Meyer restructures for profitability By WILLIAM JIMOH

he Board of DN Meyer Plc has expressed readiness to scale up efforts at restructuring operations in the company in a bid to give a better return to its shareholders in the 2014 financial year. The company, which attained a positive turnover of N1.59 billion in 2013 as against N1.549 billion in 2012, recorded a profit-beforetaxation of N168.97 million compared with N86.73 million in the previous year. The chairman, Sir Remi Omotosho, who disclosed this while addressing nd shareholders at the 42 Annual General Meeting, AGM, in Lagos, said the company was able to record profit in turnover during the year under review in spite of insufficient working capital available for its operations because of tough jobs done by its managers in repositioning and restructuring its operations. His word, “The most difficult challenge of the company was inadequate working capital; the board could not raise capital in view of a subsisting court order restricting it from injecting funds following an application by Accounting and Information Management Services, ACIMS limited. We therefore relied on internally generated income with emphasis on cost reduction strategy throughout the year.

FG appoints Fidelity Bank boss into MSME council

he Federal Government has appointed the Managing Director/CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc., Nnamdi Okonkwo on the Technical Implementation Committee of the National Council on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The Council, which was inaugurated last Thursday by President Goodluck Jonathan was charged with the task of developing a value chain intervention strategy for SMEs in the country and also solve the difficulties being encountered by small businesses in their strive to source finance. The National Council on MSMEs, is chaired by the Vice-President, Namadi Sambo while the Technical Implementation Committee of the Council is chaired by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investments, Dr. Olusegun Aganga. C M Y K

he Securities and E x c h a n g e Commission, SEC has said that the deadline for recapitalisation of capital market operators remains December 31, 2014, just as it vowed to maintain zero tolerance for market infractions. The Commission also lamented the low level of literacy about capital market activities which has resulted to insignificant contribution of capital market to Gross Domestic Product, GDP. While addressing financial reporters after the Capital Market Committee, CMC third quarter meeting in Lagos, Director-General of SEC, Ms. Arunma Oteh, said: “The Commission has not changed the rcapitalisation deadline given to respective capital market operators. The December 31, 2014 deadline is still on course. But we are happy that many of the institutions are responding and taking various options available to recapitalise. “These options may be in form of bringing new funds, merger etc. But from the briefings they have had with us, we hope they will be able to meet the deadline. What I want you to know is that we have not

OPENING - From left: Group Managing Director, Dr Alex Otti; Deputy Managing Director (Retail Banking), Uzoma Dozie; Deputy MD (Risk Management), Caroline Anyanwu all of Diamond Bank Plc; Group Managing Director, Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, Stella Okoli; and Chairman/CEO, Shell Petroleum Development Corporation, Mutiu Sunmonu at the Grand Opening of Diamond Bank, Ajose Adeogun branch in Lagos.

SEC insists on Dec 31 deadline for market operators to recapitalise zMaintains zero tolerance for infractions changed our decision on recapitalisation. It is true that change is difficult to make, but it will be better if these firms recapitalise in line with global practice.” While commenting on possible crisis in the banking sector, she stated that the

Nigerian banking sector remains solid and there was no need for any panic. “Though, I have not read the report concerning possible banking crisis, but in my own opinion, the confidence in the banking sector is in order despite any report on banks’

Dangote Cement pulls highest transaction on NSE since 1960 By NKIRUKA NNOROM

angote Cement Plc has recorded the highest single transaction on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, NSE, since the inception of the market in 1960. According to available statistics, a total of 243.54 million ordinary shares of the company valued at N48.708 billion were crossed at N200 per share. The transaction, last week, marked the second consecutive time the company has recorded the highest trade in the market within the year, the first being on July 25, 2014 when 56.5 million units of the company ’s shares worth N12.17 billion were executed by Meristem Securities Limited. According to the NSE, the transaction, which was an ‘Off-Market Trade’, represents 1.43 per cent of total number of shares in

issue, and is now the largest single trade on the Nigerian Stock Exchange since inception. This significant trade between the seller, Dangote Industries Limited and the buyer, Investment Corporation of Dubai was executed by Meristem Securities Limited, the NSE said in a statement. The Head, Investor Relation, Dangote Group Plc, had said earlier in the week that arrangement has been finalised for Investment Corp of Dubai, ICD, the state fund that holds stakes in some of the emirate’s top firms, to buy a $300 million stake in the company. Meanwhile, a similar transaction was carried out in the company twice in 2013 on th June 10 and October 7 with 255.61 million ordinary shares worth N45.75 billion and 51.1 million units worth N9.3 billion executed within the period respectively. Other companies that have experienced huge trade on a

single day since 1997 include Ashaka Cement Plc, which had its 1.3 billion ordinary shares executed by Chapel Hill Denham Mgt. Ltd on September 9, 2014. On September 4, Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, ETI, recorded the highest single transaction in the market, accounting for 1.77 billion units of trade valued at N35.37 billion; Dangote Flour achieved the same feat on October 4, 2012 with 3.17 billion ordinary shares valued at N30.09 billion, while Union Bank of Nigeria, UBN, recorded the achievement twice in 2012 when 4.32 billion ordinary shares of the bank valued at N15.83 billion and 1.66 billion units worth N9.30 billion were executed by Chapel Hill Denham Mgt. Ltd. In October 27, 2011, Mansard Insurance Plc emerged the highest single traded equity in the market with 6.77 billion units valued at N11.91 billion.

exposure. We had far reaching reforms in the banking sector starting in 2009 and the financial services regulators were very much committed and they ensured that banks met all the regulatory requirements, including minimum capital requirement and some that did not meet it either merged or were bridged by Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, NDIC and this resulted in the establishment of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, AMCON that took over all of the bad debts of some of these institutions and also provided recapitalisation to zero to some of those institutions. “These far reaching reforms have been studied by some other jurisdictions and there is nothing in my mind that suggests we should be concerned in terms of the conditions of the banking sector,” Oteh said. On facility given to the power sector, Oteh said, “I think this is a credit decisions, and one of the areas that the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN has focused on is on enhancing the quality of credit decisions that are being made. I have no reason in my mind to doubt the credit decisions taken. Both the past governor of CBN and present governor are all committed to risk management. I think our banking sector is world class.”

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Homes & Housing Finance

10,000 mortgages: 66,402 applications approved for pre-qualification By YINKA KOLAWOLE

he Federal Government has approved 66,402 applications received from Nigerians under the affordable housing mortgage refinance scheme for prequalification. The application process for the 10,000 mortgages which only targeted first time home owners was opened on August 4, 2014 by the Federal Government and closed on September 5. Recall that the scheme under was launched by the Federal Government, in Abuja, on July 31 to help alleviate constraints to rapid housing development in the country. The launching

kicked off the prequalification of people for an initial 10,000 mortgages to be provided by lenders. The scheme is designed to enable Nigerians who meet specific eligibility requirements to be registered for the first 10,000 mortgages for houses valued at between N2 million and N20 million to be paid over a period of up to 20 years. Giving an update on the outcome of the first batch of the federal government guaranteed mortgage scheme last week in Abuja, Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi OkonjoIweala, said that 66,402 people have so far subscribed to the scheme and added that government plans to accommodate every application to meet the aspiration of Nigerians. She noted that 51 percent of the 66,402 applicants have expressed interest in owning homes in Abuja while 18 percent preferred Lagos. “32 percent wanted two bedroom flats and a small percentage applied for one

bedroom flats and one bedroom self-contained flats. 96 percent of all applicants are currently living in rented accommodation and 51per cent of all applicants want to live in Abuja and 18 per cent in Lagos. This shows that almost 70 per cent of applicants want to live in the two main urban areas,” she said. Okonjo-Iweala said 96 percent of the applicants currently living in rented apartments. “As of Friday, September 5, 2014, we had received 66,402 valid applications – with more still calling. That is more than six times over subscription to our initial 10,000 pilot. We are extremely pleased with this outcome. The applications were spread across the 36 states including the FCT. Sixty-three per cent of applicants were male, with 37 per cent female. Eighty-nine per cent of applications applied for themselves – that is in their own name, even our women. Only 11 per cent were joint applications, that is, husband and wife,” she said.

The minster assured that the selection process will be transparent, adding that all the 66,402 valid applications would be given to the 17 mortgage and four commercial banks that are members of the NMRC lending banks for prequalification and invite applicants that meet the criteria for discussion between now and the next eight weeks. She said names of successful applicants would be made public through the media. “There is enough funding to back this project, which is why we created the Nigeria Mortgage Refinancing Company (NMRC). As long as the banking institutions and primary mortgage banks (PMBs) meet the guidelines, there will be money to back this.

IGR: Benue lawmaker advocates property law enforcement

former Speaker, Benue State House of Assembly, Mr David Iorhemba, has called on the state government to commence the implementation of laws on property taxes to boost the state’s revenue generation. Iorhemba told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Makurdi that the implementation of the laws would expand the revenue base of the state. He decried the low level of revenue being generated from existing sources, saying it made the government to rely heavily on funds from the federation account for project execution. According to him, the state was losing huge revenue from non-payment of property taxes, considering the quantum of personal property scattered all over the state. “Most people don’t pay ground rents on their houses and individuals own so many houses scattered all over the state. In Makurdi town alone, if the government were to strictly enforce payment on ground rents it will realise so much revenue,” he noted. Iorhemba said if he becomes the state’s governor, he would take an inventory of all houses and enforce payment on ground rents.

UK housing market flattens •One of Lagos HOMS housing projects

Group blames under-funding, interference for FHA’s inefficiency BY FAVOUR NNABUGWU

he Senior Staff Association of Communications, Transport and Corporations, SSACTAC, an arm of the Trade Union Congress, TUC, has blamed the low perfomance of the Federal Housing Authority, FHA, on inadequate funding and government interference in the oprations of the agency. President General of SSACTAC, Comrade Muhammad Yinusa and General Secretary, Comrade Chile Ekeke, made the accusation in a statement at the end of the Association’s National Executive Council

meeting held recently in Abuja. They claimed that since 2006 when FHA was commercialised, it has failed to fulfill its mandate of making houses available to Nigerians because it has not been allowed to be run professionally by politicians. The group asserted that the major problems of FHA were inadequate funding and government interference in the running of the outfit. “SSACTAC is in support of full commercialisation of Federal Housing Authority as against corporatisation. NEC also called on federal government to recapitalise FHA to perform its functions in accordance with its enabling act as enshrined in

the new National Housing Policy of 2012. “The provision of affordable housing is one of the major concerns of any government due to the fact that apart from food, shelter is the most important human need. In Nigeria, the low income and no-income class find it difficult to own their own house due to reasons such as high cost of housing unit, poor mortgage and even the poor salary they receive which cannot afford to get them decent houses. Government at different times has brought out housing scheme to enable people in such category own their own homes. FHA was created for the sole purpose

of making affordable housing accessible to all Nigerians. The agency has the vision to be the leading provider of housing and facilitator of access to sustainable housing solutions in Nigeria and to become a model government agency. However because of poor funding, the agency has not been able to deliver on its mandate. The prices of its housing units especially in the FCT have skyrocketted beyond the reach of the low and no income earners. This was linked to the fact that the agency lacks access to adequate funding and had to increase the prices of its unit in order to break even,” the group stated.

he housing market across the UK has reached a “plateau”, according to a survey of chartered surveyors. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) said the number of house sales agreed in August fell for the first time in two years. Surveyors also expect prices to rise more rapidly outside London than in it. The biggest increases are expected in Northern Ireland, The East Midlands and Scotland. RICS said price momentum in London had started to “soften”, as flats and houses had become more unaffordable. “In some areas the recovery has only recently taken hold and affordability is rather less stretched. Significantly, members now expect price gains over the next year to be faster outside of the capital, than in it,” said Simon Rubinsohn, RICS chief economist. C M Y K

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Missing $49.8b and missing organs in the Nigerian economy –3

awyers, as a whole, constitute a pain in the wrong end of the body. As necessary evils, they are more evil than necessary. Priding themselves as “learned” people, all they do is to make laws so complicated as to turn the law into an ass. No other profession, known to man calls its products “an ass.” That should tell us something about the practitioners of the trade. Perhaps, Shakespeare was mostly right. From time immemorial, lawyers have cast a not so glorious image for themselves. On that same page of VBQ, Sir William Gilbert, 1836-1911, had warned us that, “And whether you’re an honest man or whether you are a thief depends on whose solicitor has given me my brief.” In plain language, Never Believe What A Lawyer Says Until You Know Who Is His Client. Predictably, they wade into a lot of matters, armed with their biases, induced by who is paying them to argue. They will fight tooth and nail to free a mass murderer

or someone who embezzled all the money in his state – if the fee is right. Conscience is the first thing that takes flight once they enter the court room. “Winning”, for them, “is everything.” Of all types of practitioners of this morbid profession, the worst are political lawyers. Those are the ones who are actively involved in politics and who are primed to do what they do worst – use words to deceive the unwary and subvert the process of making intelligent choices among candidates and political parties. The most surprising thing about this profession, and the way it is practised, especially by political lawyers, is that it actually prides itself on being based on certain principles – which are supposed to be sacrosanct, but which political lawyers abandon at the least possible chance. One of them is “allegation is no proof of guilt”, and its corollary, “he

who asserts must prove.” Even a level 100 law student is supposed to have mastered those principles. Generally, true professionalism in every field demands that every professional must adhere to the basic creeds of the profession – at all times. No exceptions are allowed. What has this got to do with

“The first thing we do, let’s kill all the lawyers”, William Shakespeare, 1564-1616. (VANGUARD BOOK OF QUOTATIONS, VBQ, p 123).

them, formerly in the opposition party, APC, now back in the bosom of the PDP, no longer ask for the “missing money.” Now that they have crossed carpet, they have seen the money!!! You can now see what Sir Gilbert means. Instead of asking Sanusi to prove his allegations or holding the Ministers innocent – until proved guilty as alleged by the

The most surprising thing about

this profession, and the way it is practiced, especially by political lawyers, is that it actually prides itself on being based on certain principles – which are supposed to be sacrosanct

the “missing $49.8 billion”, you might be wondering? Plenty, as you will soon discover. Among those who swallowed, hook, line and sinker, the former CBN Governor’s original story about “missing $49.8 billion”, and, who proceeded to demand for the resignations of the Ministers of Petroleum and Finance, were lawyers. Two of

former CBN Governor – they rushed to their Facebook and Twitter pages and let loose barrages of condemnation. Where was the professionalism? Learned people are supposed to be people with brains; so where was the demonstration of brains – especially when it turned out that Sanusi LIED about $49.8 billion missing? Last week, it was pointed out that the new Emir of Kano,

when invited by the Senate, ended up by saying that the money “not remitted” could be US$20 billion, or US$12 billion or even US$10.8 billion. In short, the man who started the hysteria and unleashed the lynch mob was not even sure how much, if any money was missing. At that point, personal and professional ethics demanded that all those who have leveled accusations against the President, and the Ministers should publicly apologise to them and turn their venom on the rumour monger. Most of them, shamelessly kept quiet. That was bad enough; and it cannot, in any country or age, be regarded as demonstration of brains by individuals – learned or otherwise. The real wonder of this episode manifested itself in the publication by the National Publicity Secretary of the APC– a lawyer. In an advertorial, he told Nigerians and the world the opportunity costs of alleged US$20 billion. Apart from the fact that he did not explain how he came about how many housing units, schools, kilometers of road, which could be procured for the amount, the entire advertorial was predicated on the assumption that US$20 billion was missing – long after the author of the rumour had self-disclaimed the hoax.

Cover Story

Mixed grill for businesses as Ebola impacts economy handling companies, oil marketers, catering service provider, duty-free shops, etc,” it added. OPS urges caution The Organised Private Sector (OPS), comprising MAN, NACCIMA, NECA, NASME and NASSI, said EVD is impacting the sector negatively, but urges caution in reporting the outbreak. Alhaji Badar u Abubakar, National President, Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), said that the Ebola incidence has affected businesses in Nigeria and is depriving the country of Foreign Direct Investment which has significantly slowed down the economy at large. “The Ebola virus has really deprived us of so much; most of the people coming into Nigeria to do one business or the other have stopped coming because of the fear of the virus. Initially, airlines were being affected, tourism and hospitality were on the decline, people ran their daily affairs with fear. The Federal Government was on top of the security challenge which for a while now has been affecting businesses and the economy at large, and now, they are also fighting to curb this Ebola virus. The truth is that there is urgent need to curb this virus C M Y K

and it is a collective effort, both from the government and the citizens because we cannot afford to lose lives and businesses. “We commend the Federal Government for taking practical steps to contain the spread of the virus in the country. We believe that the virus could be effectively contained if all measures are frontally implemented. However, we have observed that with the outbreak of the virus, the tempo of business has been slowed down in the country and with significant impact on the economy, especially in the tourism and hospitality sector,” he said. On its part, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), said there should be discretion in information management, advising that care should be taken not to escalate the Ebola crisis beyond the reality of its occurrence. Alhaji Remi Bello, LCCI President, said: “The Ebola hype has created a disproportionate panic, anxiety and scare, projecting the country as endemic Ebola zone. Ebola is alien to our environment and therefore a momentary phenomenon. There is currently the risk of international isolation, stigmatisation and unwarranted discriminatory practices against the

citizens traveling outside our shores. This has grave consequences for the economy and the citizens. We commend the progress made so far in the containment strategies. We remain optimistic that the disease will be fully controlled sooner than later.” Oil and gas shipping feeling the impact Operators in the oil and gas sector have lamented the negative effect of the Ebola Vir us Disease on their operations in Nigeria and other affected countries. Specifically, Bourbon SA, which runs supply and crew ships for the offshore energy industry, swung to a first-half loss, saying its operations in Nigeria have been affected

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The Federal Government was on top of the security challenge which for a while now has been affecting businesses and the economy at large, and now, they are also fighting to curb this Ebola virus

by the Ebola outbreak. According to the company, the loss was 4.8 million euros ($6.3 million), compared with a 14.4 million euro profit a year earlier. Christian Lefevre, Chief Executive Officer, Bourbon, said the company ’s sales, which rose 8.9 per cent, are expected to be at the lower end of a full-year growth forecast of between eight per cent and 10 per cent. “The mobility of our vessels coming from Nigeria has been restricted by some countries. Vessels coming from Nigeria cannot go directly to Cameroon or Ivory Coast. While Bourbon has stopped sending vessels to Nigeria for maintenance, there have not been any significant disruptions to the company’s operations,” he said. On its part, Maersk Line said it will continue to call at ports in countries in West Africa affected by the deadly Ebola virus, although it said it has suspended shore leave as well as crew change in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea and Nigeria. Spokesperson for Maersk said: “We have been following the situation for some time and sent out our first advisory to vessels calling at West African ports. We have subsequently sent out several updates - to crews and landbased personnel - outlining additional health measures as per the WHO

recommendations. We have also suspended shore leave as well as crew change in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea as well as in Nigeria.” Business as usual at social joints Financial Vanguard investigations further revealed that it is business as usual in several drinking joints around Lagos, as the joints were filled with people catching fun not minding the EVD outbreak. Mr. Damian Orji, Manager of De-Rock Restaurant, located along the LagosBadagry Expressway, said consumers are trooping in as usual, but what the restaurant has done is to also provide sanitisers in line with health officials’ advice. He suggested that local officials should monitor drinking joints to ensure that restaurants within their locality provide sanitisers for customers as a measure to forestall the outbreak of EVD. In the same vein, Mr. Johnson Ogwu of Rest Room Restaurant, along Iyana Iba– Isheri Road, corroborated the statement of the first respondent, saying that the outbreak of the EVD has not slowed down business for bar owners. He also supported government’s position that sanitisers be made available at strategic positions in restaurants to forestall the spread of the virus.

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Aviation Interview

You will soon start flight operations, having just secured your AOC. How do you intend to cope with the challenge of multiple charges by aviation agencies that operators have been contending with over the years? Government and the people of Nigeria should start asking questions: Why do Nigerian airlines go extinct? Airlines go into extinction very easily in Nigeria. And there are so many factors. Above all, the current administration should be commended for giving the airports a facelift. Credit must also go to government for the waiver on import duties and charges it granted domestic airlines for their aircraft and spare parts. That has assisted airlines to save huge sums of money that would now be deployed into maintenance of their aircraft. But, a lot more could be done by government to assist domestic operators. Government should not only support start-up airlines, but the existing carriers because airport and air navigation charges are too many; five per cent to this agency, five per cent to the other. The bulk of the revenue accruing from ticket sales goes back to aviation agencies as payment for charges. Under this kind of arrangement, no airline can break even, let alone run profitably or recover their operating costs. If the airlines cannot recover their costs, that means they are incurring losses and ultimately they close shop. The negative side of an airline closing up is that there will be job losses which

Barrister Allen Onyema

Multiple charges killing domestic airlines — Air Peace boss, Allen Onyema z Dismisses insinuations of President Jonathan funding his airlines

ir Peace is a new entrant into the nation’s aviation industry, having only last Monday got its Air Operator’s Certificate, AOC, from the regulatory agency, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA. Coming at a time some existing airlines in the country are closing shops due to harsh operating environment, chairman of the airlines, Barrister Allen Onyema, said Air Peace would get it right where others failed by adopting the right model for scheduled operations. He, however, appealed to the Federal Government to prevail on aviation agencies to cut down on the multiple charges imposed on operators, saying that was partly responsible for the high mortality rate of airlines in Nigeria. He also dismissed insinuations that he was fronting for the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan. In this inter view, Onyema spoke on these and other issues in the sector. Excerpts:

We are prepared for those who are poised to malign our reputation in print or any permanent form; very soon, they will make my day in court

give rise to insecurity. I am calling on President Goodluck Jonathan to direct aviation agencies to reduce airport and other air navigation charges for domestic carriers to enable them keep their business afloat. The current administration has done well for aviation, but government should remove the double and high airport charges that have become prohibitive. If an airline is paying out over 10 to 15 per cent of its revenue as airport charges, where will the operator get money for aircraft insurance and maintenance, aviation fuel and other issues it must attend to? Where will the airline get money to pay its overhead costs? So, the prohibitive charges should be far away, they belong to the past. What is your reaction to insinuations that Air Peace is

being funded by some people in government, including President Goodluck Jonathan and his Special Adviser on NigerDelta Matters and Chairman of Presidential Amnesty Programme, Kingsley Kuku ? These insinuations are unfounded. Neither President Goodluck Jonathan nor members of his cabinet or my friend, Hon. Kingsley Kuku, has anything to do with the funding of Air Peace. The insinuations in the public domain are unfortunate and misleading. It is being peddled by people who either have political scores to settle or undertone to massage or operators who are afraid of our entrance into the aviation sector. I get very angry when people throw up such insinuations that even Mr Timi Alaibe or anybody they know is my friend that is in

or was in government is giving me funds to run an airline. They even throw up names of people I have never met before. They even mention the name of the President’s wife, Mrs Patience Jonathan. I have never met her. I have also never met President Jonathan in person. I am very sure people doing all these are doing it for political reasons. I am sure too that some competitors are scared of Air Peace, so they could do anything to bring me down. We are prepared for those who are poised to malign our reputation in print or any permanent form; very soon, they will make my day in court. How are your banks reacting to this allegation on your source of funding? The banks are there to explain to the world the source of funding for Air Peace. The record will speak for me. The banks have my details on the business I undertake and the cash flow accruing from them to start an airline. I am involved in many businesses having to do with conflict resolution with the major oil and gas companies, in community engagement with firms such as Shell Petroleum Development Company. Shell for instance was bankrolling me in

millions of naira before the amnesty programme started in 2009. Shell has done a huge job by sponsoring me to train youths, militants and elders of impacted communities in the NigerDelta. That was a huge window of funds for me before the amnesty programme started. It was the involvement of Shell in the amnesty programme that gave rise to what people in the region are enjoying today. Chevron also engaged me to be part of the training for youths in the region and paid me a lot of money. It is my firm, FEHN that handles the community outreach programme for all the oil and gas companies in the Niger-Delta. So, the millions of naira made in 2004 till date in my conflict resolution business with the oil and gas companies is sufficient to invest in the aviation industry. Besides, I have other businesses. So, Air Peace is owned 100 per cent by me. If I were fronting for anybody, will such a person allow me, my wife and children to become directors and members of the board of the airline? It does not happen anywhere. It is not true that I am a front. Don’t such people have brothers and sisters to use as directors in the airline? Who will allow you to become owner of his business? So, people spreading such malicious information are vicious. I think I deserve an award in this country for my many selfless contributions in pursuing peace, my integrity is intact. I am not a politician and I am not planning to be one. I own Air Peace 100 per cent with my children and other members of my family. Our seven aircraft are named after my wife, children, my father, my late mother and other family members. If anybody was providing funding for the airline would they allow me to do this? The answer is definitely no. How do you feel with the issuance of air operators’ certificate to Air Peace by NCAA? First , I want to thank God for this achievement. It came after one and a half years of hard work and diligence, working with the NCAA team. I feel on top of the world, I cannot even express the joy. But, it is the beginning to another step in delivering a world class airline that will change the face of air travel in Nigeria. We will not rest on our oars; we will continue to work hard to ensure that the aircraft hit the skies flying. Our plans are huge, but we will take them step by step. C M Y K

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Men in Business with CHIOMA GABRIEL

I started my business with N200 —KAYODE AROWELE zSlept in an uncompleted building to survive

f you live in Lagos or visit Lagos frequently, you might have heard or visited Paradise Hotel and Bars or tested its fresh fish pepper soup popularly known as ‘point and kill’. Ambassador Sunday Kayode Arowele, is the CEO of Paradise Hotels and bars. In this interview, the Ondo state born UN Ambassador for Peace ; and also a Universal Peace Foundation ambassador talked about starting from nowhere to becoming a business guru; his humble beginnings and the challenges he encountered while trying to build his multimillion naira hotel business. Excerpts:

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Ambassador Sunday Kayode Arowele house and I told him I was not. He asked if I did not have a family and I told him that I have but they told me that I should go back to the village which I did not want to do. He told me that some people informed him that someone had cleared all the bushes surrounding the house, that it seemed the person wanted to take over the property and that was why he came. He also said that he didn’t think I could do that but he took a precautionary measure and gave me a receipt as a tenant living in the house. I did not pay any rent for the receipt and he even gave me money

How did you start? Mine is a long story of suffering and you may not appreciate it if I don’t tell my story from the beginning. I was not born a millionaire or with a silver spoon. It’s a long way for me to get to where I am today. For starters, I am a native of Owoh in Ondo state. I did my primary and secondary school in Owoh. I attended Methodist Primary School Owoh, while my secondary education was at Imade college in Owoh. After my School Certificate, I came to Lagos to stay with my elder brothers but they told me that I should have written to notify them before coming to stay with them, that I couldn’t just wake up and decide to come and visit someone. By then, I have made up my mind to stay in Lagos. This happened in 1983 and I told myself that going back to the village would be a very big shame for me since I had told them in the village that I was going to Lagos to stay. I moved out of my brother ’s house and became a labourer to be able to feed myself while still searching for job. I had no money to get an accommodation and had to stay in an uncompleted building while I worked to survive. I used old planks to make a bed to sleep at night and in the day time, I went about searching for jobs. While I was staying in the uncompleted building, some people went and told the landlord that it appeared someone had taken over his house. This was after I cleared the bush surrounding the house. So, one afternoon, the landlord of the building drove into the house in a Volkswagen. When he came down, he asked who I was and I told him my name. He asked where I came from which I told him. He asked if I was not scared of staying in that

for feeding saying that, he has been spending money to clear the bush but, I had done that free for him. He encouraged me to be doing that and also promised to help me secure a job in any nearby company. Meanwhile, I planted many things in the house to support my feeding.

because of the leaking roof, the water would spoil my garri which made feeding very difficult at the period. Sometimes, I had to cover myself with polythene to be able to go outside to find what to eat. Some of the people staying in the area at that time took time to study me. They found out that I was not a thief, that in the morning I would go out to hustle for food and come back in the night. So, when some people said that they should send me out of the area, some other landlords disagreed. They said, ‘why must we send him away? He was not a thief but only hustled to make ends meet; in the morning, he would go around to look for work’. Some suggested that they should find a way to get me a job since I have never been arrested for any crime in the area. Were you able to get a job eventually? Yes. I got job in one company then as a clerical staff. The American who owned the company liked my punctuality to work and asked me to come and live with him in GRA Ikeja. I started living with him and he was providing me with some money for my upkeep. I lived with him until the end of my job with them and I now asked myself, what else should I do, bearing in mind that I have always loved trading right from childhood. I decided to gather some money and started trading on garri. I would travel to Benin and bring garri down to Lagos. I was supplying it to some market women around. I did that for some time before I decided to go further with the business. That was how I started traveling to some neighboring countries like, Benin Republic, Togo and some other African countries to supply them the garri. And on returning to Lagos, I would buy under wears for ladies from these countries to sell in Nigeria. I didn’t have

I told myself that going back to the village would be a very big shame for me since I had told them in the village that I was going to Lagos to stay. I moved out of my brother’s house and became a labourer to be able to feed myself while still searching for job

While I was there, I found it very difficult to buy cooking pots. So, my first cooking pot was an old Bourvita tin which I washed. I used to cook four times in a month. I depended fully on ‘smoking’ garri at that time. At times when it rained,

a store then. They used to come and buy in my apartment then. I later went into property business, that is, selling and buying of estates and property. I went for the training to know the ethics of

the business. When I knew I was competent enough to do it , I established my own as SKYPOWER PROPERTIES . When people knew I was very honest in the job, I started having a lot of customers. After that, when I was opportuned to get a land of my own, I started using it as a car wash. But I soon realised that all the land in the area where I bought the land was in dispute until the sellers assured us that the land belonged to them, that we should not worry or panic. We eventually won the dispute at the high court, the appeal court and the supreme before they gave us our land back. During that period, I had financial setback. When they finally released the land, I had no money to develop it. I had used all I had to purchase the land so, there was no money with me then. We spent the rest of the money on the land dispute. I never had any intention to run a bar or hotel business. There was a time I had only N200 and my wife said that I should give her the money to buy nylon. When I gave her the money, she bought nylon and started selling ice blocks. We had a deep freezer at home. She did that for three months. L ater, I started selling drinks on that land with little or no seat for customers to sit on. The first drinks I bought were a crate of beer and a crate of soft drinks. But when people kept coming and demanding that we add other things to the beer and soft drinks, we decided to do that. We started first with a bar where I was the bar man while my wife was in the kitchen preparing fresh fish pepper soup for customers. We popularised the fresh fish pepper-soup called ‘point and kill’ and when we saw that customers were too many, we employed workers. So, I started with a bar before going fully into hotel business. How much did you use to start the bar business then? I cannot really say the exact amount. All I know was that I brought my deep freezer which I was using in the house and I gave my wife N200 for nylon which we used in selling ice block for three months. It was from the money we realized from selling the ice blocks that I purchased one carton of Gulder which we sold then. That was how we started. When the customers started coming, all these people who are selling cigarettes gave me umbrella which I used then as a shade for my customers.

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40 — Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014 Email:lesleba@lesleba.com, lesleba@gmail.com Blog page:www.lesleba.com/blog2 Website: www.lesleba.com Tel:0805 220 1997

Greed and N65 ATM levy In another story titled “Customers withdraw N168bn from other banks’ ATM monthly,” the Punch edition of 9/9/2014, noted that ATM transactions by customers using third party banks “rose from 33.4m in January 2013 to 66.8m in December 2013”; this development, according to the report compelled CBN, after consultation with the Bankers’ Committee on Ebanking to re-introduce the N65 ATM fee. Ironically, an ATM service charge of N100 was earlier abolished by Lamido Sanusi to encourage customers to readily embrace the CBN’s cashless project. In the above event, it seems odd therefore, that a fresh levy, whatsoever the value, should be re-introduced after the cashless project has been extended nationwide and has become increasingly adopted by more customers! Consequently, some customers see the reintroduction as a premeditated trap with an unexpected punitive charge for the mass adoption of CBN’s cashless policy. Indeed, since the commencement of the new levy on September 1st, there are replete media reports of an overwhelming rejection of the new ATM charge by customers; Organized Labour as well as Students’ Associations are all unanimous in their call for the immediate abolition of what they consider to be a betrayal of trust. On the other hand, the Bankers’ Committee on EBanking has explained that the rising volume of third party bank ATM usage “had put a substantial cost burden on the Deposit money banks; this development apparently led to CBN collaboration with the Bankers’ Committee to re-

introduce the ATM fee”. Nonetheless, CBN’s policy somersault, barely 2 years after abolishing the initial N100 ATM charge raises the question as to how the Apex bank failed to anticipate the obvious collateral of increased usage and faster depreciation of ATM infrastructure when the cashless project ultimately became successfully established nationwide after the initial pilot promotion in few selected states? It is equally worrisome that, inspite of their bountiful and exceptional profit performances, the CBN has expressed concern that the increasing cost “of maintenance of ATM infrastructure, may force

he Financial Punch of Monday 8 th September, 2014, carried a story titled “12 banks earn N1.4tn in six months”; the report explained that the published trading results showed that 12 banks made a combined after tax profit of N223bn between January and June 2014. Apparently, this profit figure was about 15% lower than the N262bn profit for the same period in 2013; nonetheless, the declared profit is spectacularly almost 16% of gross earnings. Instructively, however, inspite of their role as the real drivers of inclusive economic growth, the trading results of industrial and commercial conglomerates cannot boast of this same degree of success; for example, for the 12 months ending June 2014, Guinness Nig. Plc’s after tax profit is a meager N9.6bn or 8.7% of gross earnings, (i.e. about 50% less than the ratio of the six months after tax surplus of the 12 commercial banks). Evidently, the banks are not content with their comparatively bounteous profits; consequently, they succeeded in encouraging Godwin Emefiele, the current CBN Governor and former Managing Director of one of Nigeria’s largest banks to reintroduce a N65 ATM service charge on the 4th of every third party bank withdrawal by all customers nationwide. The CBN has defended its apparent icing on the cake for banks by alleging that customers have abused the frequency of withdrawals from ATMs since the cashless project was introduced on a pilot basis in 2012 by Lamido Sanusi, the former CBN Governor.

earlier alleged that over a third of total banking operation costs were derived from cash handling activities, which also accounted for a third of all banking personnel and all letable floor space. Nigerians were encouraged to believe that the expected savings from the cashless policy would improve bank customer service and usher reduced charges for transactions; the former CBN Governor also suggested that interest rates would fall and banks would increase credit availability to the small and medium enterprises so as to facilitate inclusive rapid economic growth. Regrettably, these expectations remain clearly

Indeed, the CBN has every right to promote sustainability of its policies by identifying with the perceived plight of banks, however, some customers may see the CBN as insensitive to the station of the poor while the banks may also appear to be ungrateful.

banks to reject transactions coming from their customers at other banks’ ATMs” with severe consequences for “the operability of the already institutionalised payments system.” Indeed, the CBN has every right to promote sustainability of its policies by identifying with the perceived plight of banks, however, some customers may see the CBN as insensitive to the station of the poor while the banks may also appear to be ungrateful. Indeed, in its campaign for massive public adoption of the ‘cashlite’ policy, the CBN had

unfilled, besides, the adoption of the ‘cashless’ policy has caused tremendous anguish to many Nigerians, while the attendant incidence and extent of fraud may not have also significantly reduced. So the question is, where did the benefit of all the touted savings from reduced cash handling in banks go? Worse still, inspite of an apparent acute surplus cash in the system, the real sector and SMEs are yet to feel the impact of reasonably priced single digit interest rates; alarmingly, while the banks pay zero percent for

government deposits, and less than 10% for private deposits, their cost of funds to the real sector still exceeds 20%, while our National treasury continues to subsidise banks by borrowing money it intends to keep idle from the same banks with double digit costs! Besides, the plethora of other banking charges, such as COT, alert notices, manager’s cheques, renewal of transaction cards, etc, etc. remain abiding sources of easy pickings for the banks. Furthermore, Nigerians may feel done in, that inspite of their immense profitability, the same banks that Nigerians salvaged from collapse with both our internal reserves as well as heavy debt accumulations should still want a pound of flesh with the re-introduction of the new ATM charge. Indeed a recent report released to the media by Afrinvest disclosed that almost N5tn deployed by the CBN and Asset Management Corporation for salvaging the banks toxic debts in 2008/9 had raised the Apex Bank’s liabilities from N2.1tn to N6tn by 2013; furthermore, the report also disclosed “that this development had made over 40% of CBN’s asset portfolio unmarketable.” (See pg 29, Punch Newspapers of 10/9/ 2014) Well, so what? Some might say, after all, the banks are now ‘safe’ and depositors’ moneys are also safe, what does it matter, if future generations continue to pay back these oppressive debts which our generation gleefully incurred to save and sustain our buccaneering and exceptionally successful banking cartels? What does it matter if the banks remain affluent even when the large majority of Nigerians wallow in poverty? Save the Naira, Save Nigerians.

Business & Economy

Access Bank plans N70 bn rights issue By PETER EGWUATU, with agency report

HERE are indications that Access Bank Plc is planning to raise its capital by way of rights issue. Reuters reported that Access Bank has been meeting with domestic investors over the past week to gauge interest in a possible rights issue of 6070 billion naira ($369-$431 million) by the fourth quarter, a fund manager and a banking source with knowledge of the roadshow, had said. Access Bank , which raised

a $400 million in Eurobond in June, wants to bolster its core capital, the fund manager who attended the meetings in Lagos told Reuters, declining to be named. Access Bank was also discussing with investors in Abuja. An official from Access Bank declined to comment. Banks in Africa’s biggest economy have been boosting their capital levels in recent months, as the industry this year adopts new international capital requirements. Chief Executive Herbert Wigwe told an analysts’ conference call last week while

presenting the bank’s half-year results that he anticipated banks would need to raise more capital as a result of the new regulations. A source at Access Bank said the bank was meeting with stakeholders and would determine the amount of the fundraising after the meetings. Adesoji Solanke, banking analyst at Renaissance Capital, expects First Bank, which recently raised a Eurobond, to follow with plans for extra capital as well as United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Skye Bank.

Omoh Gabriel Babajide Komolafe Clara Nwachukwu Peter Egwuatu Yinka Kolawole Favour Nnabugwu Godwin Oritse Godfrey Bivbere Michael Eboh Franklin Alli Ebele Orakpo Ifeyinwa Obi Rosemary Onuoha

Group Business Editor Deputy Business Editor Energy Editor Asst. Business Editor Snr Bus. Correspondent Insurance Correspondent Maritime Correspondent Maritime Correspondent Energy Reporter Industry/Agric. Reporter Energy Reporter Maritime Reporter Insurance Reporter

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Osun: NBA to discipline erring lawyers By Innocent Anaba

HE Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, has threatened disciplinary action against some lawyers that allegedly fought at the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC office in Oshogbo, Osun State. NBA President, Mr. Augustine Alegeh, SAN, in a statement, said “My attention has been drawn to a news clip on television station showing persons alleged to be lawyers engaged in a brawl at INEC office, Oshogbo, Osun State. 'The conduct is shameful, despicable and amounts to gross professional misconduct. It is conduct unexpected and unbecoming of any lawyer. However, it has not been confirmed that the said persons are indeed lawyers especially as their conduct is not conduct expected or associated with lawyers. “Consequently, I have requested our third vice president, to immediately investigate and confirm if indeed they are lawyers before close of business on September 12, 2014. In the event that it is confirmed that they are lawyers, the NBA will immediately

commence disciplinary proceedings against them. The long standing good

reputation and name of NBA should not be tarnished by any person.”

Oyo gov settles fire victims By Ola Ajayi

OVERNOR Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State, weekend, gave traders of Aleshinloye Market, Ibadan, whose shops were gutted by fire recently N10m to reduce their losses. Speaking while presenting the cheques to the traders, the governor said the gesture was in fulfillment of his promise to assist the affected traders to cushion effects of the losses they suffered during the inferno. He commended the traders for their immense contributions to the socioeconomic development of the state, noting that his administration would not relent in its efforts at ensuring improved living condition of the people of the state. The governor said his administration had earmarked N300 million as loans to assist traders in the state, while markets had been provided for the traders who were removed

from the streets. While calling on politicians to desist from campaigns of calumny, politics of deceit, character assassination and violence, Ajimobi urged the traders to continue to support the urban renewal programme of his administration and to continue to sustain the existing peace in the state, reminding them that meaningful development could only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace. The Caretaker Chairman of Ibadan South-West Local Government, Mr. Taoheed Adeleke, in his address, said that the second phase of the market for relocation of the affected traders would soon be completed. Each trader was presented with a cheque of N50,000. In their separate remarks, some of the beneficiaries, including Mr. Friday Eze, Mrs. Abimbola Ajayi as well as the Chairman of the Market, Alhaji Fatai Amubikaun, commended Governor Ajimobi for the gesture.

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RESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan’s sizzling political romance with Alhaji Nmodu Sheriff (alias SAS), the widely acknowledged godfather of the Boko Haram Islamic insurgency group, has confounded even some of his diehard sympathisers. Let me tell you a little bit about Sheriff. You will recall that this man, who governed Borno State for eight years between 2003 and 2011, was a strong pillar of the defunct All Nigerian People’s Party (ANPP), which later dissolved into the current main opposition party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). He was in the Senate between 1999 and 2003, where he represented Borno Central on the platform of the ANPP. By 2003, he decided to run for governor. He not only defeated the incumbent ANPP governor of the state, Alhaji Mala Kachalla at the party’s primaries (a feat yet to be repeated anywhere in Nigeria since 1999) he also beat the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the governorship election, Alhaji Kashim Ibrahim Imam. A couple of other things you need to know about Sheriff’s political sagacity in the North eastern frontier of Nigerian politics, include that when he was about

SAS as presidential consor consortt and Senator Ahmed Yerima of Zamfara State that the ANPP survived even after General Muhammadu Buhari abandoned it to form his own Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). Now, perhaps you will begin to understand why President Jonathan considers SAS a valuable political asset when he parted ways with the APC (of which was a prestigious founding father) and joined the PDP? Perhaps you can see why that abominable gesture of opening the Maiduguri International Airport, earlier shut down for security reasons, just to give

SAS is one of those terribly parochial-minded northern politicians who do not care about other Nigerians who are not northerners or Muslims, even though they badly need their assistance to attain national objectives

to leave power after eight years, he decided to put his political bellboy, Alhaji Modu Fanami Gubio, in his place. Gubio had already emerged as the governorship candidate of the ANPP before he was shot dead by the Boko Haram boys. Sheriff brought Alhaji Kassim Shettima as replacement and successfully installed him as governor. It will also interest you to know that under Sheriff’s watch, Borno was the only state in the entire federation that refused to give President Goodluck Jonathan 25 per cent during the 2011 presidential election. Sheriff’s political influence has firmly kept Borno and Yobe in the kitty of the opposition APP/ANPP/APC since 1999, even when other northern states (like Kano) were either with the PDP or slipped in and out of PDP. It was thanks to him

SAS a red carpet welcome to the umbrella party took place? This same airport was slammed in the face pilgrims who wanted to fly from there to the hajj. Mind you, what bothers me and any other person who knows the maverick nature of politicians is not that he moved from APC to PDP and was given a red carpet reception. I am not perturbed by the hypocritical noise APC and its sympathisers have been making about SAS being a Boko Haram sponsor who must be crucified along with a gallant combatant general of the Nigerian Army, Azubuike Ihejirika, who was laughably accused by Australian mercenary, Davis. SAS was a founder of APC, and has always been fingered as the father of Boko Haram. The party and its supporters protected him

By Hamisu Abubakar

F there is one northern governor that can be said to have been people-oriented and who has left his people in a situation better than he met them, that governor must be Alhaji Sule Lamido of Jigawa State. Before Lamido stepped in the saddle in 2011, Jigawa State was reeling from the throes of prebandal and retrogressive governance of the former governor, Saminu Turaki. Under Turaki, Jigawa was, perhaps, one of the worst administered states with all the indices of poverty and backwardness. Its governor had no clues on human capital development nor was he interested in any urban renewal so much so that Dutse, the capital city, remained an ancient abode. Today, Dutse and its surrounding environs and, indeed, all around Jigawa have become impressively transformed. Dutse can now be said in all fairness to be wearing the look of a state capital – from the antiquated scenery it used to be. There is admirable improvement on roadwork in the state thus making life a little much easier for the people. Jigawa now has a befitting Secretariat, a state university, an airport and a general upgrade of infrastructure in the state. What is even more commendable is the huge investments that Governor Lamido is making in the welfare of the ordinary people. The governor has taken education as a priority of his government and is improving access to, and quality of education by building modern schools and training teachers more effectively. The development that is going on in Jigawa State depicts what is possible with a committed and visionary leadership. Maybe Sule Lamido does not know that the whole nation has taken notice of the eye-catching performance he is posting in his state. If he had known, he probably would not be engaging in any self-destruct dance steps. Yes, Lamido is about to self-destruct. Or how else can anybody describe his latest moves against the decision of his party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)? Recently, the Northwest Caucus of the ruling PDP met in Kaduna and passed a vote

while he helped to weld the coalition that became the APC together. But now that he has left for the ruling party, he has become a horned demon. My main worry about this fellow is that he is an influential and dangerous politician. He is not an exemplary leader. In fact, it is his type of political leaders that have destroyed the North and infected the entire nation with Ebola-grade political volatility. SAS is one of those terribly parochial-minded northern politicians who do not care about other Nigerians who are not northerners or Muslims, even though they badly need their assistance to attain national objectives. In December 2006, the ANPP launched its presidential campaign in Enugu, capital of the former Eastern Region. Sheriff was a very visible and loud performer on that occasion. But he could not pronounce the name of the vice presidential candidate of his party, Chief Edwin Ume-Ezeoke. He kept on calling him: “Eze Umoke”! And he punctuated everything said by speaker after speaker with the Muslim chant: “Alhamdulillahi!” I wondered to myself: this man is shouting Islamic slogans in the capital of the Christian East. Of course, the people there are liberal and wouldn’t mind. But what if the picture were turned the other way round and the event was in Kano or Maiduguri, and a southern Christian punctuated every statement made by speakers with: “Thank you, Jesus!”? Nobody will even try it because if religious riots break out shortly after, he would be blamed for “inciting” it. He might not even come out of the arena alive. Leaders like Sheriff have thousands of willing al majiri’s ready to ensure that. What manner of man

are you if you come to my house and dish rubbish to me which you will never take? Therefore, it did not come as a surprise to me when, three years later on, the Boko Haram phenom burst to the surface like a monstrous carbuncle on SAS’s nose. Candidates from Sheriff’s Borno and Yobe are often admitted to federal unity schools even when they score zero, just to have intakes from there! Boko Haram members were youth rendered poor, destitute, uneducated and unemployed by bad leaders like Sheriff but recruited and armed by them to terrorise their political enemies and sustain them in power. What other magic did it take for Sheriff to defeat a sitting governor at guber primaries? Sheriff created a ministry in charge of (Muslim) religious affairs and funnelled state funds to Boko Haram, a group he was known as its trustee in Saudi “charity” quarters. Did you ever believe there were indigenous Christians in Borno before the Chibok girls were abducted? Clearly, Sheriff has a bad reputation, though he may be a powerful politician. The state security agencies have questioned him several times, both when he was in the APC and since he crossed over to the PDP. For some reasons that appear queer to the public, he has not been put in the dock, let alone being convicted. But the reputation sticks to him like white on rice. The president should have kept his distance from him, at least publicly, even if behind the scene the party receives him into their fold. Political parties are like churches. They don’t reject new members, but they can exercise caution on known criminals and expel them when they refuse to change. That should have been the attitude of the president to SAS. Taking him on his entourage to Chad, as reported, was the height of insensitivity to public opinion and the pains of those who have lost their loved ones, communities and livelihood to Boko Haram. It was a naked affront to Nigerians. No president should allow his political interests to override the sensibility of Nigerians. Show me your friend, and I will tell you who you are. It is unfortunate that the horde of advisers and assistants being fed with public resources cannot tell him when political handshake goes beyond the elbow. They are all more interested in being retained after 2015.

OPINION Before Lamido endangers a promising career of confidence in the President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan and his Vice President, Namadi Sambo, and subsequently endorsed them for a second term in office in 2015. Since the leaders of the Northwest PDP made their position on 2015 clear, Governor Lamido who was not in the meeting but was ably represented by his deputy, Alhaji Ahmed Mahmud, has been kicking and bellyaching about the endorsement of Jonathan by the people of his region. In what is clearly the voice of Jacob and the hand of Esau, Governor Lamido is using the Jigawa State Chapter of the PDP to fight his own little battles. According to news reports, the Jigawa PDP has dissociated itself from the communique read by the Northwest leadership of the PDP in Kaduna. And in a comical turnaround, Lamido’s deputy who cowardly lost his voice at the Kaduna meeting has returned to Dutse only to regain the same and is now waxing an incoherent song of how the Jigawa PDP is not a party to the decision to endorse President Jonathan for a second term in office. “We are not part of the decision; we didn’t know the content of the communique read after (Sunday) PDP Northwest zonal meeting at Kaduna; the government (of Jigawa) and the people remain loyal to the party and the Federal Republic of Nigeria; we are still members and remained loyal to the party and country,” the deputy governor had declared to pressmen. The tonality of the press statement suggests a man talking with a gun pointed to his head. Poor Mahmud! Well, Governor Lamido has not masked his ambition to run for the presidency and if truth be said, he is probably one of the few candidates from the North that would be acceptable down South. Lamido unlike Atiku Abubakar, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Bukola Saraki and General Muhammadu Buhari, stands a great chance of nicking the presidency by national appeal rather than vying as a candidate of the North. But that would be after the deserved second term for President Jonathan. And to achieve this,

Lamido needs to get some things right. First, the governor must maintain his reputation as a loyal party man and a leader that can be trusted. When some politicians with inordinate ambition to supplant Goodluck Jonathan rebelled against the PDP, Lamido was one of the governors who refused to defect to the opposition party with them and he gained for himself an admirable respect for being a loyal party man. As a loyal party man, Governor Lamido must align himself with the crystallizing support of the PDP for the second term of President Jonathan in 2015. By continuing to put himself forward for the position of president under the PDP umbrella for 2015, Governor Lamido is only confirming the belief in some quarters that his heart has been with his colleagues who had joined the opposition party, APC, sometime ago. Second, Governor Lamido needs to realise that he is too experienced a politician and leader of men to be reduced to a pawn in another person’s chessboard. There have been glaring insinuations that Governor Lamido is being used by a godfather to advance his own politics and vendetta against President Jonathan. According to this line of thought, Lamido has nothing against President Jonathan but finds it difficult to go against the wishes of his very powerful godfather. The danger in this puppet politics for Governor Lamido is that the nation may find it difficult to take him seriously again when the right time comes. And the right time will surely come! Governor Lamido is not known to play clannish politics. Lamido appears to have remained forthright in his politics by sticking with the people. If the Jigawa governor has forgotten, Nigerians have been watching his politics and taking note. They are also watching him now about to throw everything away in a hurry either for inordinate ambition, bad timing or puppeteering! *Mr. Abubakar, political analyst, wrote from Kaduna.

—47 Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014—

HE imbroglio that engulfed the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) after the national team’s poor outing at the last World Cup appears to be assuming an embarrassing dimension that should no longer be allowed to continue. Before now, there have been litigations, court injunctions, dissolution of the federation board, suspension by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) and the ouster of Alhaji Aminu Maigari as the NFF President. Rather than taking stock, learning from our performance and planning ahead, our football administrators are busy engrossing in power tussle while little attention is being accorded sound football administration in the country. The crisis in the Glass House, which started some years ago with the removal of Alhaji Sani LuluAbdullahi from office after the 2010 World Cup, brought in the regime under Maigari, who was in the saddle for four years that was mired by so much acrimony. Going by FIFA rules, NFF is meant to be autonomous, independent and free of government’s control. The plight of NFF worsened with the election of Chris Giwa as its new helmsman. While the Maigari-led congress dissolved the executive and electoral committees and fixed September for elections into the next board, another congress, allegedly backed by the government voted and elected Giwa as the NFF President, an election already rubber-stamped by the Ministry

of Sports. FIFA has insisted that it would not recognise any person or organ that is not elected in furtherance to the NFF statutes (As contained in Article 17 of FIFA statutes). No doubt, this decision by the Nigerian government has pitched its tenth against FIFA, which has warned that the nation will be sanctioned if the Giwa’s faction does not vacate the office, as other notable football stakeholders such as the Nigeria Referees Association (NRA), Association of Professional Footballers of Nigeria (APFON), club owners, coaches among others, have also decried the infighting that has turned into a national embarrassment. The Guild of Sports Editors, the umbrella body for sports editors recently met to review recent happenings and equally expressed the need to salvage the situation without further delay. The NFF crisis has taken much toll on our volatile football administration as virtually all the tiers of the league are being suspended at a critical period when our national team, the Super Eagles, is expected to begin its title defence against Congo in the next year’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in the next few days. Currently, the nation’s football league comprising the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) also known as the Glo Premier League, the Nigeria Nation Wide League (NNWL), the Nigeria Women's League and the Nigeria National League (NNL), have also suspended their activities indefinitely as a result of

referees’ boycott. From the unfolding events, one can say that NFF is unarguably the architect of its own misfortune.

or instance, it would be recalled that an Abuja High Court had stopped the election that brought Maigari and his team into the board four years ago but Maigari, rather than obey the law, decided to hide under the threat of FIFA ban, ignored the court ruling and went ahead with the election. Again, a Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi also nullified the elections conducted into the NFF elective offices. Inspite of this, the Maigari-led NFF board brushed aside all the court rulings and refused to vacate or appealed against them. Apart from the disrespect for the

Burntu: Story of a transformation By Ekanpou Enewaridideke

VIL forest embodies frighteningly bizarre connotations. Evil forest is usually given to strangers to claim and inhabit on the conviction that it will consume them and rubblish their arrogance. This is the conviction upon which the Umuofians gave the white missionaries the evil forest to occupy in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart. No one was willing to hazard any prospect of burgeoning seeds from the evil forest measurable in progress in human terms. But in a bizarre blend of foolishness and arrogance Hon. Funkekeme Solomon (the Hon. Commissioner for Works, Delta state) dared the evil forest to the bewilderment of doubting Thomasses. Is he a Commissioner of foolishness and arrogance? Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan sought the seat of governor of Delta state in 2007. The Uduaghan project 2007 was allegorically associated with an evil forest, the projectcarrier a senseless, arrogant, traitorous, directionless, selfish, maniacal, uncircumcised baboon precipitously headed for either the infuriated furnace or the treeless measureless OCEAN, or better still the Bermuda triangle where Solomon would have disappeared unmourned. While Solomon inspirationally sang Uduaghan’s songs as a political vocalist, some people merely turned supplicants for his memorialdeprived retirement from the surface of the earth – though politically. Yet, with foolish and arrogant perseverance reminiscent of the days of Senator J.E. Manager who toiled to enthrone Chief James Ibori, he turned the evil forest into paradise, nay a land of pilgrimage for

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even those who were hitherto invincible apostles of disparagement and sabotage. An evil forest thus turned a mustard seed by Solomon’s magic wand of arrogance. In Burntu Local Government, as much in other parts of Delta state, Solomon devotedly engaged the task to actualise Uduaghan’s governorship dream though even within the PDP some persons now turned unsolicited town-criers for the anointed would-be governor of Delta state, played anti-party politics to dislodge Uduaghan. The evil forest did not consume him; he survived the evil forest just like High Chief Government Ekpemupolo who conquered the evil forest and won the liberation war, and Senator J.E. Manager who devotedly cleared the governorship space for Ibori in 1999. It is therefore natural for Solomon to claim the dividends of bulldozing the evil forest just as Tompolo be allowed harvest of his liberation struggle and Manager the benefits/accruals of his politics of PERFORMANCE. Surprisingly, some political infidels, Atosulas, mudskippers are shamelessly working for their views, positions, idiosyncrasies, ideologies, stands, wishes, demands, etc, to be recognized and placed above the man once demonized as deathcarrier, suicide bomber and maniacal political strategist in the politics of Burutu. Political prostitutes must leave the evil forest for Solomon to bestride because there will always be another evil forest. Or do you want to dare the merciless cannibalistic evil spirits that inhabit the evil forest who would not pardon a deliberate stray political prostitute? Even in the biblical days, the apostles were the solid dependable bridge to Jesus Christ. In the days of Chief James Ibori, Manager (the three legged enigma) was the bridge to

By Adewale Kupoluyi

Mess in the Glass house

From what we have been seeing so far, we can safely say that those involved in football administration in Nigeria have no real interest in developing the game. This could be due to the 'free' money that comes from the government that makes the NFF secretariat the toast of politicians

courts, the Maigari-led NFF board had been bogged-down by one crisis or another going from the alleged missing dollars inside an aircraft, high-level corruption, match-fixing and strained relationship among board members, who were said to have illegally constituted a the League Management Company (LMC), to run the Nigeria Professional League. The Ministry of Sports, under Dr. Tammy Danagogo, appears to be incapable of overseeing the operations of NFF effectively. Rather, it has deployed overbearing and divide-and-rule tactics that have been counterproductive. While the Maigari group is enjoying the goodwill of FIFA, the Chris Giwa team on the other hand has the backing of the Nigerian government. It is expected that with the series and grievous allegations leveled against the body, the ministry should have demanded accountability from the NFF. But whenever this happens, the impression that is given is that FIFA would sanction the nation because of government intervention. Up till now, the inferno at the NFF secretariat in Abuja is yet to be investigated, especially in the face of information that the fire extinguishers at the secretariat expired since 2012 without any attempt to replace them. The ongoing stalemate is nothing but a clear manifestation of the absence of the genuine passion for service by those that are benefitting from the humongous situation and would rather prefer that the status quo ante be maintained. As a way forward, Nigeria should put in place, a sound football

In Burntu Local Government, as much in other parts of Delta state, Solomon devotedly engaged the task to actualise Uduaghan’s governorship dream

Ibori. Visually, the Bomadi bridge is the symbolic representation of this bridge. Today Solomon is the bridge to Uduaghan in Burntu politics apart from Chief EK Clark who is the god of all; and symbolically, the ongoing Ayakoromo bridge represents this link. However, in the Ibori days, some political mudskippers, infidels, prostitutes enviously moved to dislodge Senator Manager but they ended up disastrously in the political permutation that emerged. Now the same forces are politically at Solomon for the sole purpose of dislodgement because vindictive and envious dislodgement has became their pathological pastime.

ow that Dr. Uduaghan is the governor of Delta state, Solomon is unarguably the bridge to him in Burntu politics. Age does not come, neither do educational achievements and wealth. The coupon for this bridge-status is the clearing of the evil forest. Not even a generational family name counts in this matter because Jesus had no generational family name before he became great. What of Zik of African, Awolowo, MKO Abiola and others? Were they launched into fame and leadership positions by their generational

administration where those saddled with such responsibility would consider national interest foremost; instead of leaving the game to a few vested interests that appear to be after their private pockets. From what we have been seeing so far, we can safely say that those involved in football administration in Nigeria have no real interest in developing the game. This could be due to the 'free' money that comes from the government that makes the NFF secretariat the toast of politicians. Unfortunately, we have failed to tap the immense opportunity in the football business for national development in the sense that it has the tendency to be the only sport that is capable of self-funding and revenue generation in Nigeria and elsewhere. If the government stays away from football in terms of full control - because it has been proven that government cannot run football administration effectively - it is possible that the right calibre of people that can move in and drive the game forward. What FIFA wants now is a shift in date that would allow for more time to conduct free and fair elections. Therefore, the election that brought Giwa into office should be revisited as directed by FIFA and democracy should be allowed to take its full course in the bid to choosing experienced and selfless leaders for NFF. We cannot afford to be banned again by FIFA. This should be the ultimate concern of our football administrators. They should stop throwing stones in the Glass House! *Mr. Kupoluyi, wrote from Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

family names? The politics of Solomon is admirable: it is admirable because it is ideologically driven. He is unrepentant, fearless, firm and consistent like Senator J.E. Manager in positions taken; and he has a handful of followers who have been visibly empowered. His politics of empowerment is exemplified by the glorious living conditions of Godwin Edumogiren and Georgina Eva. For those political OLUS now at Solomon, always burrowing into the earth for havoc-creation, beat your chest and tell us those you have visibly empowered and your development projects. For politics of empowerment, Hon. Mutu Nicholas of Bomadi/patani constituency, Senator J.E. Manager of Delta state and the evilforest-bulldozer (Solomon) are verifiable exemplifications. Politically, Solomon should be dislodged only by those whose empowerment and evil forest credentials outweigh his. The local Government election is now hovering over the sky in Delta state but the so-called political prostitutes are still fast asleep. Solomon has today personalized the Burutu Council chairmanship struggle of Chief Clark Ebikeme through the aggregation/deployment of resources. Perhaps, after Chief Clark Ebikeme’s victory, the so-called political prostitutes would feature with their irrational outburst that Solomon should not have a voice in the government of the Council. At that time derogatory epithets would be thrust upon Solomon to dislodge him politically. The season political traducers thrive in the distortion of known realities is over because even Governor Uduaghan is perfectly at home with their antics. The Ebola of political prostitutes has been conquered; so the SOLOMONS can now fall sleep with their two eyes closed. Mr. Enewaridideke, a commentator on national issues, wrote from Warri, Delta State. C M Y K

48—Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

2015: INEC’s additional polling

units suspicious — Ayo Adebanjo •Wants confab report implemented before 2015 polls •Says Boko Haram has declared war CHIEF Ayo Adebanjo is an elder statesman and Chieftain of the PanYoruba socio-political Organisation, Afenifere. Adebanjo, who was a delegate at the just concluded National Conference, comments on the confab and why the report should be implemented before the 2015 general elections. He also speaks on the growing level of insecurity and faults the additional polling units proposed by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and other sundry issues. Excerpts: By Dapo Akinrefon

HAT are your concerns over the growing Boko Haram insurgency in some northern states of the country? My concern is the concern of any patriotic Nigerian. I really feel embarrassed that insurgency can overwhelm our own land. We can only pray that

ago, but there has been no difference. The insurgents seem to be gaining grounds more and more. So, if you say we are weak as a nation, what about the powers that came to help us? But some have alleged that the Federal Government is instigating the crisis in an attempt to win the 2015 elections? How can a reasonable person talk like that? How can a reasonable person make such allegations? How can killing your own people win an election? That can only be the permutation of the opponent, which is very unreasonable. By killing your subjects and destroying their houses, is that a way to win an election? Let them use another propaganda that is very cheap. Boko Haram war This is another war of unity. The people supporting Boko Haram are separatists. So, anybody who wishes this country to be one must support the President to find the solution and not ganging up to say go and bring back our girls. He has the army, he equipped them, you said the equipment is not enough, he is buying more to fight them. You cannot say there is something he ought to do that he has not done. That is the

Let us start on a new scale, conduct the elections and make the new constitution operative from May 30, 2015. If it will warrant the elections being shifted, why not? That is my own view

the worst will not happen. With your concern, how can the activities of the sect be curtailed? I am not a security man, those who are in charge should know better. Even when foreign powers said they were going to help us, I do not see evidence of that. All the powers of this world said they were going to help us, about two or three months

reality of the situation. I am not a PDP man, but that is reality on ground. I don’t want to look like there are no sensible people in the country. We must not play politics with the lives of the people because the country must exist first before you can rule. That is why left to me, there must be promulgation of this confab recommendation before the elections. The recommendation consolidated

•Adebanjo the country. If you are now going to have an election on the old constitution, when are we going to have the recommendations? Let us start on a new scale, conduct the elections and make the new constitution operative from May 30, 2015. If it will warrant the elections being shifted, why not? That is my own view. It is been over 150 days and the abducted Chibok girls have not been released, in your view, what is the way out? Anybody who feels there is a better way of releasing the girls should have suggested it. I do not see how I can blame the government. I am of the view that the government is doing its best those who think otherwise should say what the

government ought to do. More so, we are fighting invisible people. I do not want us to judge unreasonably all because we want to oppose the government. I don’t know where the government could be blamed.

Criticism of government For anybody to sound reasonable to me, in the criticism of the government, the person should say what government should have done and has not done, that would have given us a better situation. How do you see the ultimatum given to President Jonathan by northern elders to secure the release of the Chibok by the end of October

2014 or forget about contesting in 2015? That is their view but is that the view of the rest of the country! How rational is that? Is it the man (Jonathan) that kept them away? All of them, including those demonstrating the #bringbackourgirls, have not addressed those Boko Haram insurgents who took the girls away. Or are they saying it was Jonathan who took the girls away? Why do we play politics over something that is not real? Was it Jonathan that took them away? When he said he was negotiating, he said who will he negotiate with? An Australian negotiator, Dr Steven Davis, alleged that

Continues on page 49

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will is the consciousness to satisfy the people. The conference did something that is very queer and very rare. We passed 600 resolutions with consensus, we did force any resolution through anybody. If you disagree, we argue with you and that is the beauty if that conference. So, whether he has the political or not, the product of that conference will compel him to do wish of the people particularly if he is the president of the people. What informed the decision of Afenifere to kick against the creation of additional polling units by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC? This matter of polling units is a matter of common sense. I listened to Jega trying to defend the additional polling units. He did not say where there is overcrowding of voters, he has improved it by two. He just went by ratio of the polling booth, so much to North and so little to the South. There was no principle. What is the rationale for what he has done? That is the question we are asking. Do you suspect a foul play? Of course. It is an easy way to rig and that is why I say the polling units must be related to the number of voters you believe will be in that area.

Continues from page 48 former governor of Borno State and former Chief of Army Staff were sponsors of the Boko Haram sect. What is your take on that? It is for the government to work on those tips, except he could say that it was the government that organised it. He is only telling us those who are involved. That again needs to be investigated. You cannot rule out the possibility of somebody trying to divide you from inside, when you are accusing people who are privy to the attack, it is a very grievous allegation and it has to be taken with a lot of caution. Despite the initial fears that the national conference would not succeed, it eventually ended as planned. What were your initial fears while the exercise lasted? My concern was that the decisions should be implemented. Don’t forget that at that conference, there were those of us who believed in it, who agitated for it, who pressurized Jonathan to do it against his own will. Don’t forget that he once dismissed the idea. This is why I now regard him as a listening President. You see, we all agreed that there is something wrong with this country, both government and opposition. We have all agreed that it is a queer federation, all the parameters of federalism are sidelined and we called it a federation.

Meaning of the confab So, those of us who believed in a peaceful coexistence now said we are not going to fight this thing out but we must sit down and discuss these problems and discuss the solutions. That is the meaning of the confab. Was there any time that the delegates were influenced during the conference? In what form? Influenced to do what? Don’t forget that people like me went to that conference because we had a view about how this country should be. We went there that this country must be truly

Voting population

2015: INEC’s additional polling units suspicious — Ayo Adebanjo the report... (Cuts in) I am very optimistic. I have no reason to doubt the President now. It is the

We are only talking of a referendum to give it the legitimacy of the people and so, whatever we can do to get that one, is the way out

federal except those who went there without any purpose. We went there to keep the country united in a way that everybody will be acceptable. One of the problems associated with this kind of conference is implementation. How optimistic are you that

opponents and those who do not believe in it that said the conference will lead to disintegration. Some people are just pessimistic. What we are now saying is that the ball is in the President’s court and I believe, having had the courage to summon the

conference, he will implement the report. When we submitted the report, he said the ball is now in the court of the elected representatives to see to the implementation. Those of us who have faith in the President, should pressurize him to implement the confab in the interest of the country. Having said this, should the report be sent to the National Assembly or subjected to a referendum? My own view has always been that they are all technical. The question of the constitution is a political matter, not legal and not technical. If we all

believe that the recommendations if the conference is good, whatever we need to implement it, we must do it. We are only talking of a referendum to give it the legitimacy of the people and so, whatever we can do to get that one, is the way out. All we are saying is that we want a constitution which we can honestly say is the wish of the people. There is nothing special about the referendum other than to endorse what the confab has done. Do you think the President has the political will to implement the report? What will create the political

Jega has said that the population is not the voting population, insisting that it is the registered voters that will go and vote. With this, do you have faith that INEC, under Jega, to conduct a free, credible and transparent election in 2015? For the first time, I have doubts about Jega over the additional polling units. He did a thing that he cannot back up with facts and figures. That is where he disappointed me. Do you share the view of those who say that Nigeria will disintegrate as a result of the current security challenges? If the leadership takes the right course why should the country disintegrate? There is no reason for it. Infact, that was the fear of those who did not want the confab because they said if we go to the confab, it will lead to disintegration. If we are going to follow sentiments, I am one of those who does not believe in the creation of more states because we will be creating states that will not be powerful. But that is the wish of the people because this is the government of the people, by the people and for the people. That is why we say we are not going to have the unity of the country on what a section of the country wants. C M Y K

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52 — Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Vanguard CLASSIFIED EYEMIENOKPE—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Eyemienokpe Eseoghene, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Ugwu Eseoghene Oriyovwe. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

OKWUDIKE—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Okwudike Roseline Ebele, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Okotete Roseline Ebele. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

AMU—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Amu Jessica Olohigbe, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Uwabor Jessica Olohigbe. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ASAKPI—I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Asakpi Temi Susan, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Aghoghophia Temi Susan. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

ODJOJI —I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Regina Oberhiri Odjoji, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Regina Oberhiri Agbroko. All former documents remain valid. General public please take note.

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EMUROHWAREHOR— I, formerly known and addressed as Miss Emurohwarehor Marvellous Igho, now wish to be known and addressed as Mrs. Marvellous Igho Prince Gbodoko. All former documents remain valid. Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro, NYSC and general public please take note.

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VANGUARD'S LAGOS OFFICE YOU CAN B O O K Y O U R A D V E RT S AT OU R L A G O S I S L A N D O F FI C E : VA N G U A R D M E D I A L I M I T E D (LAGOS OFFICE) K I O S K 4 8 , E A S T PAV I L I O N TBS, LAGOS.

Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014 — 53

Gabon shock Eaglets 2-1 A G

OLDEN Eaglets, were beaten 21 by Gabon yesterday in their final round first leg 2015 African U-17 qualifier at the Stade Augustin Monedan de Sibang in Libreville. Victor Osimhen gave the Golden Eaglets an early fourth minute goal while the home side levelled up

through Moubouhy th Ngouba in the 26 minute and Maomikolo Boundembi scored the winner in the 80th minute that saw Osimhen getting a ‘questionable’ red card from Central African Republic referee, Jean Marc Ganamandji in the 70th minute.

Obafemi Continues from BP Eagles recall. “I said at the start of the season if I was doing well for Seattle and scoring goals, I’d have a chance with Nigeria,” he told BBC Sport. “But firstly, I want to play regularly here and try to help Seattle Sounders win a trophy. “It’s the coach’s decision to invite players but if I can get a recall

to the national team, I’ll be honoured. I just need to continue my form here in the United States, give my all to this club and let other things happen naturally. “I love my country and I always want Nigeria to do well with me in the squad or not. “If I get another chance, great, and if not, I can only wish my country all the best.”

“The boys gave their best under the circumstances that we found ourselves especially the difficult travelling arrangement which caused fatigue especially in the second half,” explained Coach Emmanuel Amuneke. “But with all sense of responsibility, the officiating of this match was poor but we have to put this behind us and focus on the second leg.

S part of efforts to ensure that the Super Eagles come out victorious in their next two matches in the ongoing 2015 African Cup of Nations qualifier against Sudan, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has said that it is making arrangements to see that Coach Stephen Keshi signs his contract before the tie coming up in October. NFF general secretary Musa Amadu who confirmed this in Abuja also rubbished insinuations in certain

Man U Continues from BP the red of United. All three impressed, but it was the contribution of Di Maria which perhaps deserves the greatest praise. The Argentine gave United fans a glimpse of his potential in the drab

0-0 draw at Burnley two weeks ago, but on his home debut he was simply irresistible. The £59.7million (Dh356.6m) signing stretched the away defence with a series of brilliant passes and he had a hand in all four goals.

Keshi may sign contract before Sudan clash — NFF will sign a new contract. quarters that the coach may not be given a new contract due to the team’s poor outing against Congo and South Africa. “I cannot see how the coach’s contract will affect the performance of the team. “I have no doubt that he

“I know that it is critically important that the coach signs his contract to secure his future and know exactly what is due to him. I am sure we will be able to sort out those things before the next two games against Sudan,” Amadu assured.

Mayweather Continues from BP slow-motion replays – was Mayweather’s assertion afterwards that he is prepared to negotiate a fight with Manny Pacquiao. “I’m going to talk to my team and, if the Pacquiao [fight] presents itself, let’s make it happen,” he said. He did not say if the Filipino would be his next opponent, in May 2015,

but it is at least looking more likely than at any time in the past five years. That leaves Amir Khan, who arrived in Las Vegas in the late afternoon after overcoming visa problems – apparently with the help of David Cameron – again wondering if he will get the fight Mayweather first promised him last December.

54 —Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Vanguard, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014 — 55

Costa is deadly — Mourinho

•Costa

HELSEA boss Jose Mourinho admits that even he did not expect new signing Diego Costa to start the season as strongly as he has. “Seven goals is a surprise. Nobody expects one player to score seven goals in four matches, and they’re not penalties, it’s from free play.. To score seven goals is obviously a fantastic record. He is deadly”

Patrick Okpomo house

T the last Delta State Challenge Cup, I had the privilege of being honoured by the Delta State FA as a contributor to the development of football in Nigeria. It was while I was there , that I heard about plans to immortalize Patrick Okpomo through the naming of the planned Delta State Football Secretariat after him. Like every thing Nigerian, I decided not to get excited, preferring to “siddon look.” On Thursday September 11, I counted myself privileged to be part of a project that is a rarity in our climes. When I came back from Zambia three weeks ago as a member of the CAF Inspection team to the five countries bidding to host the CAF Nations Cup in 2019 and 2021, I wrote about the need to get our state football associations functioning. I decried a situation where State FA’S were subservient to football clubs and the LMC paid State FAs N5000 to “organize” matches and chairmen and State FA members only surfaced on match days to watch matches and disappeared. In my column published in the Vanguard of July 26 2014, I wrote in part: “…….Perhaps more fundamental to this whole drama is the development of the game in Nigeria. In an earlier charge against the Maigari administration, funding of grassroot football was said to be neglected. State football chairmen should bow their heads in shame. I can count on the fingers of one hand, chairmen who even understand what football management is all about, who are conversant with the rules and regulations governing the sport. “In Congo DR, I came across one of our chairmen who was made the leader of delegation of a Nigerian team. He cut a sorry sight as he knew nothing of the rules and regulations of the CAF Confederation Cup. For him, the primary thing was the travelling, the hotel suite, the car and the state box seat reserved for the leader of delegation. “Perhaps I am expecting too much. Back home, how many of them know about the rules and regulations of the various leagues, the Federation Cup……..how many of them have attracted sponsorship to their state football programs outside the Governor’s Cup that they expect funding to come from Government house? Football must strive from the states……” When I arrived Asaba, someone drew my attention to that piece and challenged me to apologise. When I was given the opportunity to make a remark, I said my article said “…..I could count on the fingers of one hand….” On Thursday, Mr Pinnick Melvin Amaju and his colleagues in Delta FA stood up to be counted among the very few that have justified the mandate of their people. The Okpomo Football House, as they will not be tired to tell you, is a hundred percent private sector driven initiative even in a state where

Governor Uduaghan has given sports personal and maximum attention to the advantage of youths and Nigeria

Governor Uduaghan has given sports personal and maximum attention to the advantage of youths and Nigeria. I can therefore imagine the joy of the Nigerian football community, when Amaju signified interest at the Presidency of the Nigeria Football Federation. Given the quality of invitees that graced the occasion, led by the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye and the President of the Nigeria Football Association Alhaji Aminu Maigari, his First Vice President Mike Umeh, five NFF Executive Committee members and over 13 State FA Chairmen, you may be tempted to dismiss the timing of the opening of the Okpomo House by Amaju Melvin Pinnick as a political ploy aimed at boosting his presidential ambition. That assumption may however not be very fair to a young man who over the years, before he even dreamt of taking his savvy to the national level, has been a shining example of an amiable and goal getting football administrator, one who will forever be grateful to those who put him through the mill, men like Patrick Okpomo, Eddington Kuejubola, Solomon Ogba and Dere Otubu, to mention a few. Delta State FA under Amaju has an enviable and unmatchable record when it comes to capacity-building for its staff and officials, youth football development and above all a private sponsorship initiative that is exemplary. Presently, Delta FA has over 23 companies sponsoring its various youth and development

programmes including such top-notch companies like Zenith, Ecobank, Skye, FCMB and Main Street banks. Others are Staco, Arco, Tomba Resources, Ulo Consultants, Senforce Insurance, Dav Notch Nigeria Limited, Brownhill Investments, Veltrop Limited……. Before I sound like a Public Relations Consultant for Delta FA, how can one ignore the fact that the over N200m used to erect the magnificent state of the art edifice in honour of Nigeria’s foremost football administrator Patrick Okpomo was sourced hundred percent from the private sector, with Zenith Bank throwing in the Lion share of N80m. I said in Asaba that FIFA nad CAF will be glad to hear about this and other projects that are a prototype of their football for hope programmes, corporate social responsibility, Football as a means of social development, one that leaves a positive impression long after we have gone, financially sustainable. I will not forget that Thursday belonged to Patrick Okpomo. I travelled with his loving wife Mary from Lagos and it brought back memories of our glorious days at CAF…..Nations Cup 2000, when CAF openly wondered why Nigeria was not fielding him for Executive Committee position, to that day ten years ago when on his sick bed he declined a FIFA appointment and his wife exclaimed “ …For him to turn down an opportunity to go and serve football then he is truly ill…..” . He died. On Thursday, he loomed larger than life, resurrected by a befitting monument that will outlive us, one that will continue to tell the story of his greatness, even as his wife in tears recalled the N m debt owed him by “ the country he served meritoriously till death…..” and thanked Pinnick Amaju and Delta FA for this “very rare honour”.

NTIERO DEAD?

should be forgiven for refusing to say anything on the death of coach Ntiero Effiom, one of the greatest Women football coaches in Nigeria. In Asaba, chairman of the Cross River State FA Oswald Otuake said “ he died”. And I said “ just like that” he said “ just like that” Still waiting to hear on the death of a man who in July, told me he still had a lot to offer women football in the country and wanted my cooperation to realize that dream.

BURIED

INCE this is the first time I am writing since the burial of my junior brother George, I seize this opportunity to reach all those I have not been able to, thanking them sincerely for their support and prayers to me and my grieving family. God has been our comforter. See you next week.

Bet9ja to open operation base in the East, South-South Bet9ja was launched UOYED by the have our agent at their betterment of the society people that were jobless B huge success of its beck and call. We realize .We have built a based on their ;passion, last year with the aim of reputation of delivering we have taken our rewarding people operations in the South West zone which has seen it emerge as the number one sports betting company after only a year of operation, Bet9ja has concluded plans to increase its operational base in the East and the south south region. According to the chief Executive Officer of the company Ayo Ojuroye, “we plan to continually increase our operations in the nook and crannies of the country. Hence, we have concluded plans to open more offices in the east and the south south part of the country. We also hope to employ more agents across the country so that our customers can

the strategic importance of the region to our business and we want to empower a lot of people as well. With the response we get on a daily basis, we have to expand our operations by employing more agents in states like Abia, Anambra, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, Cross Rivers, Rivers, Imo, Enugu, and Delta states.” Ojuroye further disclosed that in less than a year of doing business in the country, Bet9ja has made remarkable impact as the number one sports betting company in the country “We have operated our business on integrity, transparency and commitment to the

on our promises. We have made millionaires of

business to new heights and it can only get better”

through their passion for sports.

GOLF......From left, Mike Ikpoki, CEO MTN, Boni Obieze, CEO, Ringo Telecommunications and Teju Ogunwomoju, MD, Servus Telecommunications at the MTN World Golfers Nigerian Championship at the Ibom Golf Course, Uyo on Saturday. C M Y K

VANGUARD, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Mayweather retains title O

N an another bizarre night among many in this crazy sport, Floyd Mayweather boxed his

way to a 47th straight victory with one good hand over the last four rounds after complaining that

Man U hit QPR 4 - 0

ANCHESTER United’s stellar squad yesterday trounced Queens Park Rangers to hand Louis van Gaal his first win as manager. Angel Di Maria, Ander Herrera, Wayne Rooney and Juan Mata all got on the scoresheet as Van Gaal’s team hammered Harry Redknapp’s shellshocked side 4-0 at Old Trafford. Van Gaal gave Radamel Falcao a second-half debut off the bench while Daley Blind and Marcos Rojo made their first starts in

Continues on Page 53

RESULTS EPL Man U 4 QPR 0 SERIE A Sampdoria 2 Torino 0 Cagliari 1 Atalanta 2 Fiorentina 0 Genoa 0 Inter 7 Sassuolo 0 Lazio 3 Cesena 0 Napoli 0 Chievo Verona 1 LA LIGA Vallenaco 2 Elche 3 Valencia 3 Espanyol 1 BUNDESLIGA Frankfurt 0 Augsburg 1 Hannover 2 Hamburg 0 LIGUE I Lille 2 Nantes 0

Marcos Maidana bit his left, a call with which nearly everyone in the arena but the Argentinian and his camp agreed. More significant than the validity of the claim, however – and it looked incriminating on several

Continues on Page 53

•Floyd Mayweather’s left makes a clean contact with Marcos Maidana’s face as the American takes control of the contest

Obafemi offers to help Keshi’s Eagles W

ITH Super Eagles strikers struggling to find their range in front of goal for Nigeria in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying race, Seattle Sounders striker Obafemi Martins has

said he hopes his form in Major League Soccer (MLS) will earn him a Nigeria recall. Martins again struck in Sounders’s 3-2 home victory over Real Salt Lake on Friday night for his 13th goal of the

season, and also boasts an impressive nine assists. The 29-year-old wants to help the club to the MLS title and is hopeful a successful campaign can earn him a Super Continues on Page 53

•Obafemi

QUICK CROSSWORD

TODAY'S

PUZZLE

YESTER DAY'S YESTERDAY'S

ANSWERS

ACROSS 2 Exterior (5) 7 Crease (4) 8 Bumpy (6) 9 Dullard (5) 11 Beaker (3) 13 Point (3) 15 Exclude (4) 16 Untruth (3) 18 Unfasten (4) 19 Hermit (7) 20 Amphibian (4) 22 Discharge (4) 23 Cyclone (7) 25 Rush (4) 27 Fasten (3) 28 Leg-joint (4) 30 Insane (3) 31 Finish (3) 33 Material (5) 36 Discussion (6) 37 Responsibility (4) 38 Bet (5)

DOWN 1 Market-place (5) 2 Unusual (3) 3 Can (3) 4 Regret (3) 5 Married (3) 6 Foul (5) 10 Fashionable (4) 11 Ratify (7) 12 Flew (7) 13 Flower (7) 14 Dappled (7) 16 Inclined (5) 17 Escape (5) 18 Employ (3) 21 Deity (3) 24 Light (4) 26 Keen (5) 29 Follow (5) 32 Tank (3) 33 Novel (3) 34 Heave (3) 35 And not (3)

YESTERDAY'S SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 3, Hotel 9, Helped 10, Airmen 11, Wince 12, Eros 15, Undo 17, Retinue 20, Din 21, Sapid 23, Even 25, Trip 26, Deter 28, Cur 30, Respite 33, Real 35, Eden 36, Poker 38, Pigeon 39, Solace 40, Tense.

DOWN: 1, Sheer 2, Allot 3, Hew 4, Odious 5, Each 6, Lie 7, Amend 8, Union 13, Revenue 14, Sited 16, Dispute 18, Eager 19, Wit 22, Drape 24, New 27, Recess 28, Crypt 29, Range 31, Ideal 32, Enter 34, Lone 36, Pot 37, Roe.

How to Play Sudoku

lace a number (1-9) in each blank cell. (No line can have two of the same number). Each row (nine lines from left to right), column, (also nine lines from top to bottom) and 3 X 3 block within a bold block (nine blocks) contains number from 1 through 9. This means that no number can appear twice in any block, column or row. No mathematics is involved – no adding, subtraction, division or multiplication, just plain logic and your imagination.

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