OPEC: ’s Oil Sector Growth Declined by 19.8% in Q4 Cartel records lowest quota compliance in 12 months Emmanuel Addeh in data from the Organisation of Monthly Oil Market Report Product (GDP) grew by 0.1 return of economic activities. information services sectors. Petroleum Exporting Countries (MOMR), said the previous per cent year-on-year in Q4, “The non-oil sector “Other important Nigeria’s oil and gas industry (OPEC). month, it fell by 13.9 per cent, 2020, following a 3.6 per cent expanded 1.7 per cent, contributions came from growth declined by 19.8 per OPEC, in a country- although the non-oil sector contraction in Q3, 2020, which recovering from a 2.5 per the agricultural sector, which cent in the fourth quarter of by-country analysis of grew by 1.7 per cent. was the first positive quarterly cent decline in 3Q,2020, expanded by 3.4 per cent y-o-y 2020 compared with the same developments within its The report showed that growth in the last three mainly driven by growth in period in 2019, according to member countries in its latest Nigeria's real Gross Domestic quarters amid the gradual the telecommunications and Continued on page 8

FG Plans More Military Assets Deployment in South-east, South-south... Page 6

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TODAY'S WEATHER ABUJA MAIDUGURI ENUGU KANO LAGOS PORT HARCOURT 25°C-33°C 31°C-31°C 25°C-28°C 27°C-33°C 24C-27°C 20°C-30°C Bring Insecurity to an End Now, Sultan Urges Buhari, Governors President pleads for more understanding, says time needed to take delivery of weapons Vows to resist bandits’ threat to food security Deji Elumoye in Abuja for equipment procured, to fight agents of violence to The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji submission, to be delivered. Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called Abubakar in his Sallah on President Muhammadu message in Sokoto yesterday Buhari and state governors to said the security challenges address the security challenges had continued to remain a bedevilling the country. great concern to all. The Sultan spoke yesterday “We are calling on President as the president pleaded for and all more elite understanding on the state governors to, as a raging strife in the country, explaining that time is needed Continued on page 8 Restructuring Should Start from States, Say Lawan, Gbajabiamila Deji Elumoye in Abuja The duo, during an interaction with reporters in President of the Senate, Dr. Abuja, challenged governors Ahmad Lawan, and Speaker, to start the restructuring from House of Representatives, Hon. their states. , yesterday Besides the call for took on the 17 Southern restructuring, the Southern governors, who rose from a governors had also announced PUSHING FRONTIER OF AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT... meeting on Tuesday in Asaba, a ban on open grazing; canvassing, among others, Chairman, BUA Group/Founder ASR Africa, Mr. Abdul Samad Rabiu (left), and President of Ghana, Mr. Nana Akufo-Addo, restructuring of the country. Continued on page 8 during their discussion on African Economic Integration, AfCFTA, Development and Social Impact in Accra, Ghana…recently

CAN Urges Islamic Council to Caution Extremists against Violence...Page 5 2 FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 • THISDAY 3 4 FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY, ͹ͼ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY 5

Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike NEWS Email [email protected], 08066066268 CAN Urges Islamic Council to Caution Extremists against Violence Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja terrorism or identify with the perpetrators." The Christian Association of CAN said it recognised Nigeria (CAN) has urged the and appreciated the 'efforts' Nigerian Supreme Council being made by the police and for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) other security agencies towards to caution those it described ensuring peaceful celebrations. as extremists, who are not It said it would not relent well-grounded in the faith in promoting religious and whose actions are giving tolerance, peace and unity Islam a bad name. in collaboration with NSCIA. It also felicitated with the According to it, "We remain NSCIA and all Muslims as partners in peace-making. Let they celebrated this year's us continue working together Ramadan. for peace, unity and progress In a congratulatory message of the country yesterday by its General- "May God put His fears Secretary, Rev. Daramola into the hearts of our leaders Joseph, CAN prayed that to promptly do what is the aftermath of this year’s right, justly, and godly. We Ramadan would usher in also pray that those who peace and unity into the have compromised and are country. compromising the security in It said: "We are not unaware the country will have a change that your fasting was in of mind and those who refused obedience to the divine to change will be exposed and directive: ‘O you who have sanctioned by the Almighty believed, decreed upon you God Himself." is fasting as it was decreed The Chairman of CAN upon those before you that in , Rev. Adeolu you may become righteous’ Adeyemo, also urged Nigerians -- Surat Al-Baqarah 2:183. to have hope in God and not “May God answer all give up on issues bedevilling your godly prayers offered the country. throughout the month. In a message to Muslims in PRAYER FOR PEACE... "We appeal to the leadership the state, Adeyemo expressed Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero (left), and Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, during the Eid-el-Fitr prayers in of NSCIA to continue to advise the hope that the challenges Kano…yesterday and caution the extremists facing the country will soon who are not well-grounded be over. in the faith and whose wicked “Our dear Muslim Ummah, and ungodly actions are giving it is our sincere prayers that bad names to Islam. God will rescue all those in Okowa, Tambuwal, AbdulRazaq, el-Rufai, “It is trite to know that no the kidnappers’ den and the godly person will engage in shedding of young innocent the promotion of violence, blood will come to an end in kidnapping, banditry and Nigeria,” he stated. Urge Prayers against Security Challenges

John Shiklam in , He urged Muslims to grateful to Allah (SWT) for health guidelines prescribed Omon-Julius Onabu in extend the spiritual benefits his innumerable favours and to protect everyone from Malami: FG to Asaba and Hammed Shittu of Ramadan, which were pray that all those who lost COVID-19.’’ in Ilorin love, peace and justice, to their lives have attained the The statement appealed to Resuscitate Special Court their daily living "as through position of martyrs." all communities in Kaduna Governor, Dr. this, they will be contributing He added that the nation State to uphold peace and for Terrorism Suspects Ifeanyi Okowa; Sokoto to the development of the is passing through challenges harmony. State Governor, Hon. nation." such as insecurity and In his message, Alex Enumah in Abuja Boko Haram financiers, the ; as well Tambuwal also felicitated economic hardship and AbdulRazaq called for government has taken more as Governors Nasir el- with Nigerians and urged enjoined them to pray for tolerance, mutual love The Attorney-General of the measures to counter the twin Rufai of and them to pray against the country. and understanding among Federation and Minister of troubles of insurgency and AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq insecurity and COVID-19 Also, el-Rufai praised Nigerians to ensure Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami insecurity in the country. of have saluted pandemic. the spirit of sacrifice and peaceful co-existence and (SAN), has said that the "Very soon, the federal Muslims on the occasion of The governor, in a broadcast resilience displayed by development. federal government will soon government will, through the Eid-el-Fitr festival and yesterday, thanked the people Muslims in Kaduna State The governor, during an resuscitate special court for the Federal Ministry of called for prayers against of the state for their continued during the fasting period. interaction with reporters in the trial of terrorism suspects. Justice's Complex Case Group, security challenges. prayers and support for his In an Eid-el-Fitr message, Ilorin shortly after Eid-el- He reiterated the resuscitate and reinvigorate Okowa, in a statement administration. the governor congratulated Fitr prayers, said: "Nigeria commitment of the federal the existing special terrorism yesterday by his Chief He said: "Allow me to use Muslims on the successful is our fatherland. It is the government to end insurgency prosecution courts in the Press Secretary, Mr. Olisa this opportunity to thank completion of Ramadan and only country we can call and other forms of insecurity country in order bring to Ifeajika, in Asaba, the state you all for your continuous prayed that “Allah will bless our own. ravaging the country. book all those found guilty capital, urged Muslims and support and cooperation in the immense sacrifices that "On this day and always, Malami, in his Eid-el-Fitr so as to serve as deterrence Christians to intensify prayers running the affairs of our are being made.’’ I join patriots to rally our message to Muslims yesterday, to others," he added. to complement federal and dear state. Suffice it to say The governor, in a people behind the singular said the Buhari administration The minister also saluted states' governments’ efforts that it had been challenging statement by his Special agenda of mutual love, peace, is planning to resuscitate the the commitment of clerics in at ending insecurity. to all of us and the world Adviser on Media and unity and harmony". special court for the trial of enlightening their followers He charged Nigerians to at large as we battle with Communication, Mr. Muyiwa The governor emphasised terrorism suspects in order on various issues during the also pray for peace for the the COVID-19 pandemic and Adekeye, urged Muslims the need for the citizens to to checkmate the menace. months, and urged them to nation and to avert a possible its concomitant problems to keep hope alive and embrace one another for In a statement made maintain the tempo even third wave of COVID-19 that affected the world to celebrate Eid el-Fitr in peace to reign in the state available to journalists by beyond Ramadan. pandemic. economy. We remain ever compliance with public and the country. his media aide, Dr. Umar Gwandu, the minister urged Muslims to continue to be law-abiding, have Buhari Mourns Dogonyaro, Says He Was A Thoroughbred Soldier sober reflection and exhibit the lessons learnt during Deji Elumoye in Abuja condolence message by his He said the death of the thoroughbred soldier, who had come." Ramadan. spokesman, Malam Garba former ECOMOG Field professionally distinguished The president also extended According to him, Ramadan President Muhammadu Buhari Shehu, also described the Commander came as a himself in the course of his deepest condolences to the comes with numerous lessons, has mourned the former demise of Dogonyaro as great shock to him because military career, "laying down Government and people of including sincerity, honesty, General Officer Commanding "a great loss not only to the as a soldier, he knows what one's life for the country is on the passing commitment, sacrifice,(GOC) Maj. Gen. Joshua Nigerian military but also to it means to lose such an officer one of the greatest sacrifices of ‘‘this legendary General.’’ selflessness, introspection Dogonyaro (rtd), whom he the country because of his and a gentleman who gave any citizen can make to his He prayed to Almighty and empathy. described as a thoroughbred patriotic sacrifices in defence his best in the service of the country, General Dogonyaro’s God to bless the soul of the "In addition to the officer. of its unity and territorial country. incalculable contributions will departed and grant his family prosecution of 400 suspected The president, in a integrity." Buhari noted that as a be remembered for years to the fortitude to bear the loss. 6 FRIDAY, ͹ͼ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY NEWS FG Plans More Military Assets Deployment in South-east, South-south Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja revealed. the two zones had engaged the troop and security assets aimed at neutralising armed He explained: "If they say they The two regions, had, in attention of the National Security deployment in the two zones groups as a disincentive to have developed a strategy, it The federal government has recent weeks, come under attack Council at its series of meetings to restore order. further violence in the two is either government will seek concluded plans to deploy by armed groups, who killed held in Abuja and chaired by A similar deployment was regions. dialogue or they go all out, more military assets, including policemen as well as torched President Muhammadu Buhari. done in the two zones under He said: "It is not more than armed resolution or both. troops, intelligence personnel police stations and correctional At the last meeting last the former Chief of Army Staff, deploying the Army because "We are hoping that the new and the Nigerian Security and facilities in Abia, Ebonyi, Imo, Tuesday, the council had Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), the police formations are strategy will work. Whatever Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to Anambra, Enugu, Akwa Ibom given the security chiefs a fresh codenamed Operation Python overwhelmed. At the height strategy government adopts, the South-east and South-south, and Rivers States. ultimatum of three weeks to Dance in the South-east and of insurgency, police stations what we want is peace. THISDAY’s investigation has The security challenges in check the rising insecurity in Operation Crocodile Smile in in were guarded "The strategy should be one the country. the South-south and South-west. by soldiers. that brings solution because the The council also announced THISDAY gathered from "I don't see any other thing attacks are spreading. that a new security strategy to security sources that the than the military, including the “For the government to find Boko Haram Scare: Law contain violence in the two zones planned deployment is aimed navy, air force playing the lead a solution, they must identify would be devised. at neutralising armed groups role in internal security in the those behind the attacks. The Inspector-General of responsible for the killing of regions instead of the police. "Until you identify those School DG Insensitive, Police, Mr. Alkali Usman, who security agents and destruction "The idea is that when behind these attacks, I don't also addressed State House of security formations in the armed groups go and destroy think there is going to be any Says NBA Chairman correspondents after the meeting, two zones. security formations and there solution to it." declined to provide details about There have also been concerns is no response, they will be A civil society activist, who Eromosele Abiodun and Nume to the Attorney-General of the the new security strategy. that 11 years of insurgency emboldened to go to other places spoke anonymously, said a Ekeghe Federation (AGF), Abubakar Also, the IG, in a wireless and the recent upsurge of but when they are neutralised, security strategy that is hidden Malami, and the guarantees message with reference CB: mass kidnappings by bandits it will serve as a disincentive." from the public may not be a The Chairman of the Nigerian are given that security will be 0900/DTS/DOPS/VOL.47/812X, across the country and the Spokesman of the Nigerian workable strategy. Bar Association (NBA), Ikeja provided for students who will titled "Attack on policemen, killing of policemen by armed Army, Brig. Gen. Mohammed "We are here. If they start Branch, Mr. Bath Aguegbodo, write the exams in Bwari. snatching of rifles by IPOB" groups in the South-east and Yerima, declined to comment on killing and abducting people, has accused the Director-General “But the question on my mind warned police officers and South-south have combined the security arrangements for we will know. If they start of the Nigerian Law School, in the issue is security from personnel not to accompany their to stretch, significantly, the the two regions when contacted bombing people, we will know. Professor Isa Ciroma (SAN), of where? Just last week, we heard principals to Abia, Anambra, capacity of security forces to by THISDAY. “They have been going about being insensitive to the danger there were attempts in the Villa. Ebonyi, Abia, Enugu, Imo and contain non-state actors, who However, senior retired doing the same thing. Any students billed to write their The governor had Rivers States until the security have taken up arms against security personnel said the strategy that the government examination next week at the also said on two occasions that situation in the region improves. the state. security strategy for the two is hiding must be atrocious. Bwari campus of the school there were some communities in However, it was learnt A security source told regions might also be linked with "In any case, whatever the would be exposed to due to Niger State, which is less than that security authorities were THISDAY that the new security dialogue or a total, containment strategy will be the world is the scare of bandits' attacks. two hours from where the law finalising plans for a massive strategy for the two regions was package. watching," he said. He said the students should school is located, that has been be allowed to write the taken over by the Boko Haram examinations scheduled to people,” he said. start from Monday at other Aguegbodo added that the campuses due to the reported argument that JAMB is located security scare in the Bwari area. at Bwari and some other Aguegbodo stated this universities that are located there yesterday when he appeared on have not shut down does not ‘The Morning Show,’ a breakfast hold water. programme on ARISE NEWS According to him, the Channel, the broadcast arm of psychological state of the THISDAY Newspapers. students writing the exams He said: “I think it would must be considered. be out of insensitivity on the He said: “What would be part of the director-general the mind of students writing to continue to insist that the exams when they have fears exams would be taken. If you that they may be kidnapped? look at the Chibok issue, there “The essence of the exams was intelligence information to is to assess students as to their both the security agencies and preparedness on what they have the management of the school been taught. I do not see how that they were open to attack a fair assessment would be and they ignored it. I think it done when a student is writing is important for everybody to exams knowing fully well that apply pressure on the DG to the bandits are just about two see reasons.” hours away from them. The examination, he stated, “The unsettled mind would must not take place in the definitely reflect in the final Bwari, adding that there are result, which would not bring other campuses where security a fair assessment of what the concerns are not as serious as exams are meant to achieve DEEP BLUE… they are in Bwari. at the end of the day. If they L-R: Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief ; Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration “It is a bit sad looking at could take their lecture in their things the way it is panning various campuses, it would and Safety Agency, Dr. Bashir Jamoh; Executive Director, Finance and Administration, NIMASA, Mr. Chudi Offodile; out; the security of students be the necessary thing for the Commander, 631 Aircraft Maintenance Depot, Air Commodore John Laoye; and Commander, 301 Heavy Airlift Group, writing exams in Bwari government to look at it, that Air Commodore Patrick Obeya, during the receipt of one of the special mission aircraft under the Deep Blue Project in should be paramount. I have it is the safety of citizens first listened to comments credited before the exams. Lagos…yesterday NCDC Rallies Nigerians to Stop Indian COVID-19 Variant Eromosele Abiodun and Nume “The reason for concern strain (B1617 strain). collectively as a government assessment done at the NCDC The data gives us confidence Ekeghe is what are we doing as a “What government is doing and as a people," he added. Ihekweazu stated that the in the number we are sharing.” government and second as a is not enough to manage the He said the NCDC had been sequencing on how to determine The NCDC, he said, had The Director-General of the people - what are we doing? risk of the pandemic in Nigeria. working very hard to mitigate variant was a complex process, encouraged some testing centres Nigeria Centre for Disease “There is no point running We have to do our own and we the impact of the Indian strain. “and we have been developing to manage their human resources Control (NCDC), Dr. Chike around and attending weddings appeal to our citizens to do their He said: “That there is a new that capacity in the country. I and always keep some surge Ihekweazu, has called on and at super spreading events part. It is one thing for the media strain in the country in itself is can assure Nigerians that we capacity available. Nigerians to do more to curtail without masks and then to discuss the strain from India, not enough to make a decision. would be transparent as we He said the NCDC had also the spread of the Indian strain of worrying about the emergence but if the media ignores the mass We also look at the density of possibly can on the numbers, been working to ensure oxygen COVID-19 virus in the country. of a variant. We are advising gathering that is happening and travel from every country. We testing sequencing and whatever supply is more efficient. He appealed to them to lead Nigerians to do what they can having people appear without look at the strain circulating in we can at the appropriate time.” “There are certain aspects of by example by wearing face do while we at NCDC would masks where they should be other countries and we then According to him, the treatment and we have seen masks and decline invitation to continue doing our very best role models for the rest of the look at the risk assessment numbers of cases have reduced from India that oxygen supply is attend events where there would 24/7 every day.” citizenry to manage the risks, and a very carefully thought while testing has improved critical and we have to build up be mass gathering, which he He stated that it was we face collectively a huge risk. through the process within the significantly. our capacities on that too. So, in described as supper spreaders. important for state governors “I want Nigerians to look at center and based on this, we He stated: “We test 40,000 order to build resilient, we are The NCDC boss made the to ensure compliance with what is going on in a few other then advise the presidential people every single week and buying more than we need, we appeal during an interview COVID-19 guidelines, adding countries and not externalise it. steering committee on actions out of that, our test positivity know that some of those might on ARISE NEWS channel, the that “but we as citizens should We would do our best from our necessary to be taken.” ratio is about 1 per cent. So, be wasted if they are not used broadcast arm of THISDAY make sure we do our best. side, but let us not drop the Ihekweazu said the NCDC one in 100 people tested come by the time they have to be used Newspapers. We can only sustain the very ball on this. We managed to get had two weeks ago, advised out positive. So, we are fairly but it is better we do that and He added that the information fragile gains we have made if through a tricky situation last the government on a travel confident in the robustness of have the redundant capacity in on the variant being in Nigeria, we continue to work together.” year and now our numbers are restriction from three countries: our numbers. Also, the number that area like in oxygen than which is also in other 44 He said the federal low; let us not get complacent India Turkey and Brazil. of people with respiratory end up in a situation where countries is not in itself a reason government had taken steps and let us change the narrative He said the public health symptoms has reduced as the system is overwhelmed,“ for concern. to curb the spread of the Indian by doing what we can do action was taken based on the well as the number of calls. he stated explained. FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 • THISDAY 7 8 FRIDAY, ͹ͼ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY PAGE EIGHT Ohanaeze Ndigbo Urges Sanwo-Olu to Ignore IPOB Attack Rumour Says it’s a ploy to distract gov Ejiofor Alike General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Sanwo-Olu for the exemplary include IPOB, to attack ‘soft “The constant and periodic disaffection between Ndigbo Worldwide, Ambassador leadership he exhibited at spots’ in the state. dangerous insinuations, who live in Lagos and their The Ohanaeze Ndigbo has George Obiozor, said the the peak of the COVID-19 But responding to the rumour, gossips and callous host community which is advised the Governor of Lagos “dangerous rumour or pandemic that ravaged statement, Obiozor said the statements that Ndigbo in the second home of several State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, statement is aimed to cause Nigeria, especially in Lagos Igbo nation was renowned for Lagos or any part of Yoruba Ndigbo. to ignore the rumour that division, crises and conflict State, adding that the governor being agents of development land contemplate or instigate “The quick denial of this members of the Indigenous amongst us.” deserved commendation for and not destruction. violence in Lagos or any part rumour by members of IPOB People of Biafra (IPOB) are Obiozor in his address titled controlling and restricting the He added: “Today, the of Yoruba land; we wish to and Yoruba groups in Lagos plotting to attack the state. “Violence in any part of Lagos speed of the pandemic with leadership of Ohanaeze Ndigbo state clearly that anywhere and across the South-west was It described the speculation State is violence on all of us,” his quick response. Worldwide, in the company this dangerous rumour or a source of relief.” as a ploy to distract the said Ndigbo would not indulge Commissioner of of Igbo Elders and Leaders statement is emanating from is Obiozor also reiterated state governor and his in any act that would harm the Police, Mr. Hakeem Odumosu, in Lagos, are here to pay aimed to cause division, crises Ohanaeze Ndigbo's administration from providing harmonious peace and cordial during a security town hall you (Governor Sanwo-Olu) and conflict amongst us. support for the Lagos State good governance to all relationship between Igbo and meeting, attended by Sanwo- a solidarity visit and to further “We think that this rumour Government and the security residents of the state. Yoruba, especially in Lagos, Olu and other principal officials reassure you that Ndigbo are is intended to distract the agencies' patriotic efforts to Speaking yesterday in Lagos which he described as second in Lagos State on Monday, not violent in nature, neither Lagos State Government from keep everyone safe in the during a courtesy visit to home of many Ndigbo. had said there were alleged are we known for acts of its efforts to provide good state and throughout the Sanwo-Olu, the President- He also commended plans by some groups, which violence anywhere we live. governance for all and cause country. OPEC: NIGERIA’S OIL SECTOR GROWTH DECLINED BY 19.8% IN Q4 in 4Q, 2020. Meanwhile, the the COVID-19 pandemic Compliance among the to aggravate the Saudis and Also, oil prices dropped this week when reports oil sector dropped by 19.8 per that has also weakened the 10 participating OPEC other Mideast and African by almost three per cent from both OPEC and the cent y-o-y after a 13.9 per cent currency. countries, by contrast, was producers, which have hit yesterday and were set for International Energy Agency y-o-y contraction in 3Q, 2020,” Meanwhile, a surge in 123 per cent, thanks largely their targets in recent months the biggest percentage drop (IEA) reiterated the view that the report for May stated. oil output by Russia and to the Saudis’ additional which could create a tense since early April, after the global oil demand would It stated that in 2020, the Oman in April lowered voluntary reduction of one atmosphere during future restart of Colonial Pipeline, rebound strongly in the economy contracted 1.9 per the compliance rate to the million bpd in February- negotiations about opening eased some of the concerns second half of the year with cent y-o-y, following a 2.3 OPEC+ production cuts, April, which came on top the taps in the second half about petrol shortages in more economies reopening per cent y-o-y expansion in with the nine non-OPEC of its official OPEC+ cut of of the year. the U.S. East. and increased travel amid 2019, while inflation was still countries that participate 1.88 million bpd. Saudi Arabia is looking As of yesterday afternoon, higher vaccination rates. structurally high in the first in the cuts overproducing The average compliance to unwind its voluntary West Texas International The IEA's bullish outlook quarter of this year, with by 347,000 barrels per day, rate for the entire OPEC+ cut of one million bpd crude was falling by 2.94 per on demand, coupled with the annual inflation rate equating to a compliance group fell to 110 per cent in May-July, which will cent at $64.14 while Brent a similar view from OPEC jumping to 18.17 per cent rate of 85 per cent, the in April from a record high necessitate winning back Crude was down by 2.64 from Tuesday, sent oil prices in March 2021, the highest lowest level for the 12 of 113 per cent in March. market share that it ceded per cent at $67.49. to an eight-week high on rate since January 2017 amid months that the pact had The non-OPEC partners’ in Asia when the voluntary Oil prices snapped the Wednesday, almost hitting the continued impact of been in force. poor performance is certain cut was enacted in February. winning streak from earlier $70.

RESTRUCTURING SHOULD START FROM STATES, SAY LAWAN, GBAJABIAMILA demanded a national dialogue are requesting the federal complete and total way of regionalism. We are all come from us regardless of Gbajabiamila, on his part, to address thorny national government to do. ensuring that our systems at leaders and we are in this what levels of leadership we described those championing issues, and asked for key He added that leaders must the federal, state and even together. The solutions to are– whether at the federal the call for secession as appointments into federal come up with a holistic idea local government levels work our challenges must come level, state level, or even at misguided people who did establishments to reflect of how to make the system for the people. We must from us regardless of what the local government level. not mean well for the country. federal character. work. allow people to participate in level of government we “I also want to take this He said while there might Their decisions received He said: “I believe that as governance so that whoever are - whether at the federal, opportunity to say that we be genuine agitations, elected applause from the Southern leaders, especially those of us feels he has something to state or local government have diminished the local leaders and state governors Senators’ Forum, members of who are elected into office, offer to make Nigeria better level. I believe that Nigeria government system. I think should not be among the the House of Representatives (we) should not be at the does so freely without any is going to come out of these we can attribute the security restructuring advocates from the 17 southern states of forefront of calling for this let or hindrance.” challenges stronger.” issues to the absence of a without first replicating the the federation, the Pan Niger kind of thing because even While urging elected He called on Nigerians functional local government idea at the state level. Delta Forum (PANDEF) and if you are a governor, you leaders to shun regionalism, to support efforts at system. He, therefore, called for the Governor, are supposed to be working Lawan urged all stakeholders ensuring autonomy for local “I think the time has a national spirit of oneness, Dr. Samuel Ortom. hard in your state to ensure to rally behind President governments. come for us to take up the saying: “If truth be told, we But Lawan and that this restructuring you Muhammadu Buhari to He stated that the lack challenge and ensure that all have equal shares in the Gbajabiamila expressed are calling for at the federal tackle the nation's challenges. of autonomy by the local the local government system blame for what’s happening reservations about the level, you have done it in He said: “The president government councils functions. This is as we look today. Southern governors' advocacy, your state as well. is reaching out to all the potentially inhibits solutions for ways to curb the security “Whatever challenges we saying their charity should "What you may accuse stakeholders. And I believe as well as efforts by the challenge. have, we must all come begin from home. the federal government of, that as leaders, particularly federal and state governments “We must never neglect together to make sure that Lawan said the governors whatever it is; you may also those of us who were towards addressing the the local government system. we resolve these issues we’re should not be the ones be accused of the same thing elected at all levels of nation’s security challenges. We must go back to our local facing. We must imbibe that agitating for restructuring. in your state. government, we should According to him, “We are government system to ensure spirit of oneness, togetherness, He urged them to first, “So, we are supposed avoid partisanship. all leaders and we are in this they are autonomous and unity and love that would do in their states what they to ensure that we have a “We should avoid together; the solutions must functional." take us through this." BRING INSECURITY TO AN END NOW, SULTAN URGES BUHARI, GOVERNORS matter of urgency, bring to Sallah celebration. not create havoc against access He said: “With the resources long process,” the president Buhari, Aisha Step an end the insecurity across to farms and food production. and manpower available to stated. out Together First the country,” he said, adding: President Pleads for He assured Nigerians that us, we are working very hard. He appealed to Nigerians Time in Months “As our leaders, you should More Understanding the menace of bandits and We are hoping Nigerians will for more understanding of continue to remain resolute kidnappers will be addressed understand the problem. the current situation in the and more committed to your to ensure that the nation’s food Nigerians know at what country. For the first time in months, Buhari, however, called for Buhari yesterday stepped various responsibilities of more understanding by security is not threatened. stage we came in in 2015, Buhari said: “I expect protecting the society.” The president, who hoped what state we are today both Nigerians to be more out with his wife, Aisha, to Nigerians, especially the celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Fitr. The monarch cum spiritual elite, as his administration for a good rainy season on security and the economy understanding on the issues leader said the president and this year, said: “The law and we are doing our best.” involved, looking at the time Buhari shared many photos battles to end the siege on on social media where he and the governors should enhance the nation by non-state actors enforcement agencies are He commended the and available resources. their commitment toward the working hard to regain National Assembly for its For example, when we his wife were surrounded behind banditry, insurgency by their children and their restoration of the peaceful and kidnapping. confidence against bandits, support, saying: “The National came in, in the North-east, nature that the country was so that we can go back to the Assembly is cooperating very ask people in Adamawa spouses. He stated that the elite In some of the photos, long known for. should understand the military land. This is very important. well. Within the resources and Borno States, and the He called on Muslims to This is what the agencies are available, they are certainly South-south, in terms of Buhari was also seen with operation as it takes time for his grandchildren. pray more for their leaders to equipment procured to tackle busy doing right now. We giving us priority on our security. Without security, you cope with their responsibilities. want people to go back to (military) requests.” can’t do anything. Our big In a string of tweets, the insecurity to arrive in the president congratulated all He urged Muslims to country. the land so that we can get Buhari appealed to the elite surprise and disappointment continue to sustain the enough food for the country to show a better appreciation are what is happening in Muslims on the occasion of He expressed the readiness this year’s Eid festival and spirit of charity, generosity, of his administration to resist and even export.” of the problems facing the the North-west and we are hospitality and brotherhood Commenting on ongoing country. dealing with it." prayed that it will bring the threat by bandits to disrupt with it peace, safety, security, that Eid-el-Fitr symbolises. national food production in efforts by his administration “The elite should make Buhari and members of “Today is a great day for all to tackle the security crisis, the attempt to understand his family were joined for brotherhood and love amongst the coming growing season. others. of us to celebrate, show love, Speaking to newsmen Buhari drew attention to the military. If we order the Eid at the forecourt of support and relate with one the series of long meetings weapons and armoured the Presidential Villa by the He sought “unity and yesterday after observing solidarity among all citizens, another, as such we should the Eid prayer to end the held in recent weeks, chaired vehicles, it takes time for the President of the Senate, Dr. sustain the commitment for by him, saying part of the manufacturers (to produce Ahmed Lawan; the Speaker, Muslims and Christians,” Ramadan fast at the State adding that these virtues are our best desire,” he said. House, Abuja, the president resolutions reached at the them). It takes time to ship House of Representatives, The Sultan urged the meetings had been made them and when brought here Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, imperative “especially at a time pledged that his administration when our country is faced with residents of will use all available resources public by the National eventually, they are taken to cabinet members and the to strictly adhere to the Security Adviser, Maj. Gen. training institutions, train the heads of security and multiple challenges which are and manpower in dealing with surmountable only when we COVID-19 protocols and bandits to ensure that they did Babagana Monguno (rtd), trainers before sending them intelligence agencies. guidelines throughout the and the others kept secret. to the field. This is a very come together as one.” FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 • THISDAY 9

Featuring FEMI KUTI

@ariseplay www.ariseplay.com 10 FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 ˾THISDAY NEWS Gunmen Set Ablaze another Police Station in Abia Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in attacked and razed Bende Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu left Bende took place. shot on the leg. of Bende Police Station, were Umuahia Police Station in Bende Local LGA headquarters after a The attack followed the According to him, the burnt down. Government Area of civic reception of a three- burning of the National Drug generator house and multi- The gunmen, who attacked Abia State Police Command on Wednesday night. time immediate past House Law Enforcement Agency purpose house of Bende Local the police station around 11pm has confirmed that over The attack came barely few of Representatives member (NDLEA) office at Amaekpu Government Area headquarters were also said to have released 100 unidentified gunmen hours after the state governor, who represented Bende federal by gunmen. were touched. all suspects who were detained constituency, Hon. Nnenna The spokesman of the The police spokesman further at the station. Ukeje. Abia State Police Command, disclosed that two vehicles and However, heavily armed The police station is situated Ogbonna Geoffrey, who three motorcycles, including a soldiers arrived in the area Northern House Minority few metres from the LGA field confirmed the attack, disclosed highlander vehicle belonging to to restore normalcy when the Caucus Backs Open Grazing where the occasion the reception that two police operatives were Divisional Police Officer (DPO) attackers had fled. Ban, Restructuring Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja It stated: “We, members of the minority from the north hereby The members of the Minority call on President Muhammadu Caucus from the North in the Buhari to heed the genuine House of Representatives have advice of governors from the declared their support for the South and immediately address Southern Governors’ resolution the nation to assuage frayed banning open grazing and nerves. calling for restructuring of “The president should also the country. put machinery in place for the The caucus called on President commencement of the process Muhammadu Buhari to heed of restructuring the nation and the genuine advice of governors initiate a legislation to end open from the South and immediately grazing, which has been at the address the nation to assuage centre of the lingering insecurity frayed nerves. across the nation” The caucus said it was happy The caucus noted that in that the Southern Governors order to regain the confidence had finally come to terms with of the majority of Nigerians, the the negative effects of open President must begin to redress grazing, which states in the his skewed appointments, which North Central and other parts had unfortunately divided the of the North have been battling nation along ethnic and religious with for decades. lines. In a statement issued It said, “We commend the yesterday and jointly signed governors for taking the bold by Hon. Amos Gwamna move to speak against open (Kaduna), Hon. Solomon grazing and other ills bedeviling Maren (Plateau), Hon. Rimande the nation. Benue State had HANDSHAKE ACROSS THE NIGER … Shawulu (Taraba),Hon. Mark the foresight and enacted a L-R: President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Prof. George Obiozor; , Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and Gbillah (Benue), Hon. Tajudeen law banning open grazing foremost entrepreneur, Dr. Pascal Dozie, during Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s courtesy visit to the Governor at Lagos House, Marina…yesterday Yusuf (Kogi) and Hon. Usman and was closely followed by Sokodabo (FCT), the caucus .” stressed that the decision of The caucus said it was Security Operatives Kill Two Unknown Gunmen, the governors was apt. unfortunate that both States have It added that the governors’ not received the desired support resolutions were the only from the federal government Recover Rifles in Imo solution to the worsening thereby creating room for Two unknown gunmen between the military and to rid the country of ravaging corpse. insecurity and general discontent some elements to undermine have been killed in a joint the unidentified gunmen at insecurity. “We have one corpse but among ethnic nationalities in the implementation of the operation carried out by the Ikenanzizi in Obowo Local “It was a joint operation they escaped with the other the country. law. , Air Force Government Area of the state. of the Army, Air Force and one and it has been deposited and the Police in , He disclosed that two rifles, Police; two unknown gunmen at the Federal Medical Centre the state Commissioner of five motorcycles, a Lexus jeep were killed in the process Owerri, morgue,” he said. He 200-Level Ondo Varsity Police in the state, CP Abutu and one 18- seater bus were and investigation is ongoing. called on residents of the state Yaro has said. recovered from the gunmen. He however said that the to remain calm and go about Yaro told journalists The commissioner further team could lay hands on only their lawful activities, adding Student Commits Suicide yesterday in Owerri, the said that the operation was one corpse as according to that security agencies had James Sowole in Akure She was rushed to the state capital, that the bandits carried out in line with him, the hoodlums were able the situation under “firm” University’s Health Centre were killed in a gun battle federal government’s resolve to escape with the second control. As Muslim faithful worldwide from where she was referred were celebrating Eid el-Fitri, the to other hospitals but she died students of Adekunle Ajasin this morning. EFCC Nabs Fake Operatives, Calls for Vigilance University, Akungba Akoko The spokesperson of the were in sorrowful mood as university, Victor Akinpelumi The Economic and Financial Mr. Ghali Ahmed, advised “They can also demand on an unsuspecting victim. a 200-level student of the confirmed the incident to Crimes Commission (EFCC) Nigerians to always report arrest warrant, as the “They however ran out of institution was said to have Channels Television. has arrested two suspects and any suspicious operation to the commission does not embark luck as the commission, acting committed suicide. He expressed sadness on a Mobile Police inspector for nearest office of the anti-graft on any operation without a on a tip-off, swooped on them. The 20-year-old Feranmi the incident, noting that the impersonating officials of the agency. warrant. The operations of “Items recovered from them Fasunle of the Department of reasons for her action remained commission and extorting “We need to be wary of the the commission are usually include the fake EFCC ID cards, Political Science was reported unknown but sources said it members of the public in antics of this gang of impostors in line with international best the jackets, the purported court to have taken a poisonous might be connected to a failed Lagos State. and to report any suspicious practices.” order touted to have emanated chemical which resulted in relationship. The agency has asked “operations” to the nearest The suspects – Pascal from Mushin Magistrate Court, her death. According to the World Nigerians to be vigilant and EFCC office,” he said. Chijioke and Sodiq Adekunle, a truckload of household According to a source from Health Organisation (WHO), demand proper identification The zonal head added, as well as the policeman – properties belonging to the the university community, the Nigeria has the highest suicidal from officers when confronted “Above all, we enjoin members Edwin Bassey – were arrested unsuspecting victim. deceased took the poison in rate among African countries with the possibility of arrest. of the public confronted with at the New Horizon Estate “The suspects have made her room and started gasping in 2016 with over 17,000 lives Addressing reporters the possibility of arrest, to in the Lekki area of the state useful statements and will for breath. lost to suicide. yesterday, the Zonal Head demand proper identification during an illegal operation to soon be arraigned in court,” of the Lagos EFCC Office, from arresting officers. serve a purported court order Ahmed explained. Kidnappers Demand N30m Four Persons Feared Killed by Customs Operatives in Oyo Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan Service (NCS) killed four people Customs officers startedtook to the streets protesting Ransom for Abducted with one other person injured. shooting indiscriminately after the killing of their kinsmen. The sallah celebration to mark THISDAY learnt that those intercepting smuggled goods Efforts made to get the the end of Ramadan in Iseyin killed were hit by bullets when coming through the borders reaction of the Public Relations Deeper Life Pastor in Oke Ogun area of , men of the NCS exchanged into the town. Officer (PRO), Oyo/Osun Gunmen who abducted State Police command, Tee-Leo yesterday turned into mourning gunfire with some people It was further learnt that Command, Mr. Kayode Wey, the Pastor of a Deeper Ikoro said the police were as stray bullets allegedly fired believed to be smugglers. following the death of those proved abortive as calls to his Christian Life Ministry, still in search of the pastor. by men of the Nigeria Customs It was gathered that the killed, youths in the town lines were not picked. Mayomi Ogedengbe in Irese Ogedengbe was kidnapped Community near Akure have on Monday in his church demanded a sum of N30 located in Irese, a community Kano Declares Today Work-free Day million as ransom. near Akure, Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. of the public holiday was in The governor, according to A family source disclosed capital. The announcement was made consideration of the fact that the statement, urged residents to Channels TV that the According to an eyewitness, The Governor of Kano State, by Kano State Commissioner for Wednesday, May 12, which in the state to use the occasion, abductors were insisting on the kidnappers came in with Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Information, Mr. Muhammad was part of the two-day Eid particularly during Jummah the payment of the ransom a black Corolla Sports Car has declared today, Friday, May Garba, in a statement he issued holiday declared by the federal service, to pray for peace to before he would be released. and took the pastor away 14, as work free day to enable yesterday. government, fell within the 30 continue to reign in the state The spokesperson of Ondo to an unknown destination. Muslim faithful continue with Garba said the extension days of Ramadan fasting period. and the country in general FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 • THISDAY 11 12 FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 • THISDAY 13 14 THISDAY • FRIDAY, MAY 14, 2021

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA COMMENT Email [email protected] OPEN LETTER TO PRESIDENT BUHARI Tola Adeniyi argues that President Buhari needs some rest

Dear President Buhari, Your ministers and other career politicians will rather die in office than to have current position terminated because your office is t is with great pain but with deep concern as a fellow human- their mainstay and breadwinner. All the powers and privileges they being and your age mate that I send you this private/public letter currently enjoy and parade are at your behest. If for any reason you in the hope that you would be allowed to read it. leave office today, they know their fish will be out of water. I am in pain because the country that Allah has placed on your And yet Nigeria is bleeding. Nigerians are wallowing in unprec- laps to nurture and protect has virtually slipped out of your hand edented poverty, want, unemployment, crass nepotism, arrogant and is heading to ruins and destruction. Every index that makes and condescending impunity, humongous corruption, humongous Ia country lay claim to development, survival, safety and security, unity debt, alarming insecurity, worrisome absence of safety, confusion and and understanding, and justice and equity has taken a flight under hopelessness. your watch. In the meantime, Nigerians everywhere are all crying out to you to You probably are not aware that the country called Nigeria is already rescue the ship of state whereas you yourself need to be rescued and up in flames. You may not be aware that you are being used by a rescued fast from the clique that holds you by the jugular. clique of very powerful, egocentric and extremely wicked people for My hope and prayer are that your bold, brilliant and beautiful wife their selfish purposes and invidious agenda. And because position at will summon courage to read this letter to you. Or at least one or two the top of the pyramid is usually lonely, lonesome, and inaccessible, of your children will let this letter reach you. They certainly are aware it has been very difficult for you to know and feel what is going on of your health challenges. They know that several of the do-gooders down-below. Those who are guarding the pyramid have made it who are allowed on rare occasions to see you for photo-ups hide the extremely difficult for well-meaning individuals to have access to you truth from the public. They must know too that those on such rare or avail you a second opinion on several issues of state and statecraft. occasions who are allowed to see you say unpalatable things behind Worse still, you are afflicted with serious health challenges as evident your back. in the video clips of your brief appearances. You know that you are In the name of Almighty Allah, the Most Benevolent, the Most not well and this is why you have had to be confined to hospital bed merciful, let people of good conscience, led by your wife and children abroad for weeks and months on several occasions. Some of your urgently release you from the world’s most guarded prison and take ailments may not even be clear to you. But there is no big deal about you back to Daura for needed rest and fresh air, or better still, take you being ill or having health challenges; most people, if not all, our age to Germany or the UK for critical medical attention and total rest. That suffer one major health challenge or the other. It is only our reaction is all you need at this stage of your life sir. and management of these challenges that differ from one individual to You have had a distinguished career as a soldier, officer, and the other. military head of state. Allah has been most kind and generous to you. You are, to put it bluntly, have been rendered a glorified but pitiable Please do not allow those who are embarking on ruinous path donate prisoner as a result of the aforementioned. Those who are using your unenviable epitaph to you. office for their own selfish advantage have taken full possession of you No nationality in this 21st century can subjugate about 300 other and have unfortunately blinded you to the realities on ground. Many NIGERIANS ARE WALLOWING IN nationalities in Nigeria. The once-upon-a-time Great Britain is sliding atrocious and brutish atrocities are routinely committed in your name to become ordinary England once Scotland and Wales regain their because they are fully aware that they would never be held accountable UNPRECEDENTED POVERTY, WANT, independence and Northern Ireland reunites with its southern kith and that the buck stops at your table. UNEMPLOYMENT, CRASS NEPOTISM, and kin. And Saudi Arabia, with all its petro-dollar and United States You have been literally handcuffed and manacled as a result of your ARROGANT AND CONDESCENDING IMPUNITY, awesome firepower, has not been able to subjugate tiny Yemen situation and the only option open to you is to cry out to be released HUMONGOUS CORRUPTION, HUMONGOUS Let the message sink. from the prison in which you are. Your entire personal staff cannot help DEBT, ALARMING INSECURITY, WORRISOME Ramadan Mubarak! you because they are afraid of the superior officers/officials who are With esteemed personal regards. wielding the awesome powers of state hijacked from you. Even state ABSENCE OF SAFETY, CONFUSION AND Akogun Adeniyi is a former Managing Director of Daily Times governors are often bullied in your name. HOPELESSNESS A TESTIMONIAL FROM ACCRA

President Buhari has not lived up to his promises, writes Tunde Olusunle

wesi Pratt Jnr, Managing Editor of country.” Six years down the line, however, Nigeria Pratt was not done. He continued: “Anthony Comparisons are regularly drawn between the Ghana’s The Insight Newspaper, is has so thoroughly underdeveloped itself that it has Blinken is not talking to the Nigerian Foreign Min- high-flying Nigeria military of the 1990s which, most probably little known to us in also been relegated in global sociopolitical reckoning. ister, he is talking to the President. It makes me sick. in collaboration with the militaries of sister West Nigeria. But last week, he spoke from That is why a virtual meeting with a senior govern- Quite apart from that, Blinken has been travelling all African countries, spearheaded the resolution of Accra where he is domiciled, and ment official who is neither the US President nor his over the world, meeting people and discussing US uprisings and civil wars in Liberia, Sierra Leone became an instant hit on the social deputy, was what the Nigerian leader was subjected foreign policy and so on. When it comes to Africa, he and Guinea, among others, as part of an Economic Kmedia. He may not be resident in Nigeria, but in to. And this issue is at the root of Pratt’s anger. says “no, I’m afraid of COVID-19, so we do a zoom Community of West African States Monitoring this age of globalisation and real-time information He is deeply miffed by the phenomenal disrespect call.” Proceeding, Pratt exclaims: “What rubbish. Is Group (ECOMOG). Those were the days when dissemination, Pratt is very well informed about accorded Africa by the US on this occasion and the Africa the epicentre of the pandemic? It’s not. His thoroughbred, toughened Nigerian Army Generals Nigeria’s sociopolitics, especially because of the acquiescence of African leaders in the denigration own country is topping the world in terms of the like Joshua Nimyel Dongonyaro; Samuel Victor Leo hallowed place Nigeria occupies, not just in West process. figures. So when it comes to Africa, he’s unable to Malu; Rufus Kupolati; Ishaya Bakut; John Mark Africa, but across the continent and beyond. Reminiscing on the recent diplomatic overtures travel to meet African leaders. Rather, he would have Inienger; Adetunji Olurin and others, burnished As guest on a current affairs programme on a of top government officials in the new regime of a zoom meeting with them. And they are happy. Nigeria’s image and respectability, internationally by Ghanaian television station recently, Pratt found the Democratic Party in the US, Pratt observed Unbelievable.” their sterling performance. himself dilating the recent virtual meeting between that Blinken, like his Principal Joe Biden, had gone Another issue which unsettles Pratt is the tacit The Nigerian military also stood up to be counted the United States Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, round the globe meeting world leaders, from one admission of failure of Buhari’s government in its in the crisis, as a component of a United Na- and two African leaders, Presidents Muhammadu continent to another. When it was the turn of Africa, six-year battle with insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, tions Operation in Somalia (UNOSOM I). Brigadier Buhari of Nigeria and Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya. however, Pratt noted that US authorities cited fears attacks on security infrastructure and random killings General Olagunsoye Oyinlola (as a lieutenant colonel It was an opportunity for Nigerians in particular of the COVID-19 menace as a deterrent to Blinken’s across the country, in his interaction with Blinken. then), was commander of the Nigerian contingent. to hear from a brother nation, impressions and physical journeying to the continent. This necessi- Buhari, arms up in the air in despair, at that virtual With the recent volte face from the Nigerian leader perspectives about where we have found ourselves. tated the setting up of a virtual engagement between meeting with Blinken, requested the relocation of the in the course of his engagement with Blinken, Pratt Buhari by the way, had previously met with the US Secretary of State, and Presidents Buhari and US Africa Command, USAFRICOM from its base believes Buhari should resign from office. His words: Anthony Blinken in the United States, when Kenyatta, respectively. at Kelly Barracks, Stuttgart, Germany to a proximal “Buhari should be leaving office. He has not fulfilled Blinken was Deputy Secretary of State in 2015, in the In the specific case of Nigeria, issues raised at location in Africa! his promise to the Nigerian people. In any case, if administration of President Barack Obama. Sonala the non-physical interaction between Blinken and An inconsolable Pratt notes that this particular Nigeria, a giant in Africa cannot deal with Boko Olumhense reminds us that “ironically, the issues Buhari included global economic recovery; the effort issue was of immense discomfiture for him. His Haram, and has to go and beg Anthony Blinken to that the two men “discussed” last week, are the very against COVID-19 and the effects of climate change words: “I felt so embarrassed, so disgraced, by the bring into Lagos and Abuja and other places, soldiers same that they covered in 2015 when Buhari was in the Sahel and Lake Chad region. A furiously Nigerian Head of State and the kinds of things he to fight Boko Haram, then what will other countries preparing for his first state visit to the US.” embarrassed Pratt could not conceal his anger and said. I am embarrassed by Buhari.” Pursuing his do, countries like Gambia and so on?” If the six-year span between Buhari’s first meeting indignation at the decision by the Nigerian and argument further, Pratt said: “Listen, when Buhari Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi, Senator representing with Blinken have only resulted in the regurgitation Kenyan leaders to subscribe to a virtual exchange was campaigning to replace , Osun East, has equally spoken along the same line. of the same issues discussed in 2021, Nigeria, simply between them and the US representative. Pratt noted: what did he say? What did he tell the people In a recent interview, Fadahunsi observed that Buhari put, has been rooted to one spot these six years, “African leaders appear to have lost their dignity. of Nigeria? He said he was a General, an astute has failed Nigeria in the critical areas of security without any motion or movement, by the incumbent And because they have lost their dignity, they are General. And that if he got power, he will be able to and economy. According to Fadahunsi, it has almost administration. being treated in a most shabby manner to their own stop the operations of Boko Haram.” become customary for the senate to begin its sittings, Olumhense also reminds us with deep nostalgia, applause.” Asking rhetorically, Pratt proceeded “Is that not by rising for a one-minute silence, in honour of about the grand and lavish reception accorded Continuing, Pratt said: “I’m embarrassed by this the promise he made? Now the same Buhari is innocent Nigerians killed by insurgents, bandits or Buhari at the White House on that visit, by an so-called meeting between the Presidents of Nigeria saying “Hey, I raise my hands, I can’t fight Boko kidnappers. obviously elated Obama, against the backdrop of his and Kenya with the US Secretary of State. It’s Haram, America come and fight Boko Haram Fadahunsi alluded to the interaction between the sterling credentials which had been sold to the global embarrassing. Since Joe Biden came to power, he has for us.” The festering inability of Nigeria in the legislature and the former military service chiefs community. been all over the world meeting his colleagues and containment of Boko Haram insurgency in the North who were cleared for ambassadorial appointments. Obama at that first encounter, acknowledged foreign ministers of smaller countries, countries that East of Nigeria; banditry, kidnapping, herdsmen’s He noted that the immediate past Chief of Army Buhari’s “reputation for integrity (and) to make sure don’t have the endowments of Nigeria. Nigeria is a menace, killings in the North West and the recurring Staff, Tukur Yusuf Buratai, observed that ongoing that he is bringing safety and security and peace to major country. It has a population in excess of 200 attacks on security infrastructure and personnel insurgency in the North East, may subsist for his country... and a very clear agenda with respect million, that is what Nigeria is. Nigeria exports two in the South East, have raised questions about the another two decades, if the proper strategies were to rooting out the corruption that too often has held million barrels of oil per day. I mean, Nigeria is a professional capability, preparedness and commit- not adopted. back the economic growth and prosperity of his major player in world affairs.” ment of Nigeria’s military to root out these evils. Dr Olusunle is a poet, journalist and scholar THISDAY • FRIDAY, MAY 14, 2021 15 EDITORIAL THE ATMOSPHERE OF CORRUPTION

The anti-graft crusade of the administration is falling to pieces

ast week, President Muhammadu foretold. Corruption is killing Nigeria and the country Buhari approved the suspension of is bleeding due to unwholesome practices in all facets the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) of the sectoral life of the nation. Managing Director, Ms Hadiza Bala-Usman over allegations of non- o be sure, some practical steps have been remittance of operating surpluses taken: Implementation of Treasury Single from 2016 to 2020 to the tune of over Account, Biometric Verification Number (BVN) a hundred billion. While there are and the Whistleblowing’ policy. But the fact also counter-allegations of impropriety against the Tremains that by 2019, Nigeria had dropped to 146 Ltransportation minister, Mr Chibuike , and by 2020 ranked 149 in the annual Transparency it is not lost on Nigerians that members of the ruling International (TI) Corruption Perceptions Index. The All Progressives Congress (APC) that came to power to TI ranks countries based on how experts and business ‘fight corruption’ are squealing on one another. In the executives perceive that country’s public sector. And it process, this administration is now buffeted by several is a composite index, combining 13 surveys and assess- scandals. ments of corruption, collected by a variety of reputable Last week, the Senate Committee on Finance chaired institutions. by a member of the ruling APC raised the alarm that We have at different times challenged the current some government-owned agencies have failed to remit administration that fighting corruption requires some over N2trn to the federation account from 2014 till date. underlying doctrines that will inform the battle plans The monumental scandal running into hundreds of bil- with the overall objective of carrying the people along. lions of naira in the Niger Delta Development Commis- But with a campaign that has no foundation in public sion (NDDC) that has been hijacked by the Minister of morality or ethical good governance beyond empty Niger Delta, on the pretext of ‘forensic propaganda, fighting corruption has been reduced to audit’ is still simmer- the arrest of some opposition politicians and telling A WAR AGAINST ing. The allegation by tales. Sadly, where leadership misdeeds anticipate no CORRUPTION THAT IS the National Security consequences, democratic governance can only abide GUIDED ONLY BY A BLANKET Adviser (NSA) against by rules made by autocrats and enforced by a rogue NOTION OF NAMING AND the retired Service THISDAY judiciary. SHAMING OPPOSITION Chiefs on the money EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI What this administration ignores is the link DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI AJAYI, DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN, POLITICIANS WILL voted for the purchase MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO between distortion of values and abuse of, or general of arms that could DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE disregard for, extant rules. Yet once rules are ignored, ULTIMATELY EXHAUST ITS CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI AMMUNITION AND RECORD not be traced has EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN all templates lose their validity, submitting to collusions EPHEMERAL SUCCESS been swept under MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE and arbitrary exercise of discretion that is nothing but the proverbial carpet. grand corruption that has become very pervasive in the The probe of the suspended Economic and Financial country, regardless of what officials are saying. Fighting Crimes Commission (EFCC) chairman, Ibrahim Magu THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED corruption in an environment such as ours must go EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA provided mere entertainment without any result. In all, GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, beyond the sensational arrest of some politicians to the so-called war against corruption by President Buhari ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI putting in place structures that will lead to trials and has been consumed by hypocrisy and duplicity. DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS BOLAJI ADEBIYI, PETER IWEGBU, convictions of those that are guilty without tarnishing ANTHONY OGEDENGBE Prior to his election in 2015, Buhari’s campaign slogan DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI the reputation of innocent citizens. was “if we don’t kill corruption, corruption will kill SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH As we have consistently argued, a war against ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS PATRICK EIMIUHI, SAHEED ADEYEMO Nigeria” and it resonated because a major pitfall of CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI corruption that is guided only by a blanket notion the then ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) was DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO of naming and shaming opposition politicians will corruption. Six years into his administration, Buhari’s HEAD, COMPUTER DEPARTMENT PATRICIA UBAKA-ADEKOYA ultimately exhaust its ammunition and record ephem- campaign mantra is gradually becoming a prophecy TO SEND EMAIL: first [email protected] eral success.

TO OUR READERS Letters to the Editor Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details [email protected] . We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (950- 1000 words). They should be sent to [email protected] along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer.

RE: SYLVA, ADDAX LICENCE AND FAIRY TALES A SUCKER FOR A TEST

am one of those that strongly condemned the Table attached). How can Sylva justify giving out four his week the students of Australia in years three, five, action of the minister of state for Petroleum producing assets to Kaztec Engineering/Salvic Petro- seven and nine are undertaking tests in Literacy and resources, Timipre Sylva on grounds stated below. leum Resources for free when Nigerian government is Numeracy and they don’t want to in many cases. One, the minister cannot arbitrarily revoke or in dire need of revenue and borrowing massively to One of the more unusual suggestions mentioned renew an Oil Prospecting or Mining License finance its budget? in the paper was giving the students a lollipop like OPL/OML. Two, the minister does not have Secondly, Timi Sylva set up a predetermined Inter when you get an injection. That was apparently the Idiscretionary power to award or allocate a revoked Ministerial Committee to inject government revenue Tbest suggestion for helping them to cope! OPL/OML3.The minister should put the interest of to the tune of $650 million in a fabrication yard. Even These tests conducted worldwide by P.I.S.A., actually only in the nation first above the interest of any individual or now government is looking for funds for health care, 80 countries, show that we are performing badly. The rationale company. Marginal fields allocation list approved by security, etc. He took to FEC for approval multibillion for the local tests are that they will provide helpful information the President is questionable. The contractor/operator dollar DPR Headquarters. All of the above are not for parents, teachers and educational experts but all the teachers signed a Joint Venture (JV) or Production Sharing reform agenda or in the Interest of the government. and parents actually get is a dot on a line that goes from below Contract (PSC) agreement with NNPC not DPR. DPR Finally successful companies in the marginal field expected result to above expected result. can only revoke or renew a JV or PSC agreement were not attached to the companies in the document The tests are done mid-year, by which time any competent on recommendation from NNPC. This process was sent to the President for approval. These made room teacher would already know their students and their abilities neglected by the minister. If for the above reason the for manipulation and fraud. If you pay money then and the results are not available till later in the year. NAPLAN license is revoked, the Blocks OPL/OML shall go you will be paired and allocated fields. I challenge the stands for National Assessment Program - Literacy and for competitive bidding to determine its true value. minister to publish the list as approved by the Presi- Numeracy but I often called them NAPALM tests because of the It’s economic sabotage to assign a block free without dent. From the above it’s obvious that the Minister of damage they cause to the students’ confidence. As this occurs competitive bids especially Oil and Gas Producing State, DPR Director were acting in their own personal annually, so does the usual reporting of concerns with the tests, Block. Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) interests. Their actions if implemented will deprive the concerns with the quality of teachers and the hope for improve- divested 45% of these Assets OML 29 $1.7billion, OML country billions of dollars in revenue. ment next year. 30 $1.29billion, recently OML17 $533Million. (See Manga Enwezoh, [email protected] Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia 16 FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 • THISDAY 17 WWW.ARISEPLAY.COM @ARISEPLAY

BUMPY ROAD TO LOVE

COMEDY; ROMANCE; COMEDY; ROMANCE; DRAMA; ROMANCE; DRAMA DRAMA; THRILLER; COMEDY; ROMANCE; COMEDY; ROMANCE;

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With This Ring is a passionate story about 3 single women and friends, who, at a wedding party on New Year’s Eve, make a vow to get married within a WITH THIS RING year or else marry the fall-back guy. Trista (Regina Hall), a careerdriven talent agent; Viviane (Jill Scott), a successful gossip columnist and Amaya (Eve Cooper), a struggling actress; all have high hopes and dreams but do they make it? Each of the 3 friends face their own set of challenges - Trista has not gotten over her commitment-phobic ex-boyfriend, Viviane is secretly in love with the father of her son, and Amaya is desperate to break up her boyfriend’s unhappy marriage so they can live happily ever after. TWO CAN PLAY THAT GAME In Two Can Play That Game, Shanté (Vivcia Fox) is a well-educated woman who feels that when it comes to men and their tricks, she knows them all. On the other end, Shante’s boyfriend Keith (Morris Chestnut), is being led by his friend Tony (Anthony Anderson), who thinks he knows all the tricks that women play. Let the battle begin!!

ZEBRAHEAD tells of an interracial love affair in a Detroit high school. Zach (Michael Rapaport), a white Jewish boy, falls in love with his best friend's ZEBRAHEAD cousin, Nikki (N'Bushe Wright), an African-American teenager. Love, friendship and family politics collide in the movie Up North when a young rebellious heir Bassey (Banky Wellington), from a wealthy family is sent away to national service in northern Nigeria. For Emery Simms (Shemar Moore) his life takes a downward spin in Motives, when he betrays his beautiful wife Constance (Vivica A. Fox) for one night of passion with a stranger, he is convinced he can keep the fling a secret but someone is always watching. UP NORTH

These heart tugging, tear-jerking romantic movies carry deep life lessons! Stream our ever-expanding compilation of dramas that feature black talent defying stereotypes today. Visit the website, subscribe and choose from a wide range of movie options.

ARISEPLAY WEEKEND RECOMMENDATION MOTIVES WHEN LOVE HAPPENS & WHEN LOVE HAPPENS AGAIN

In When Love Happens, 28-year-old event planner Mo (Weruche Opia), feels the clock ticking on her chances of getting married. With friends getting engaged and being tasked to handle their wedding, she starts on-line dating. After lots of dates, she has a real chance at love. And then WHEN LOVE HAPPENS Love Happens Again when she must relocate to Los Angeles to plan an event for a billionaire. Separated from her fresh love, both Mo and her new boyfriend go against all odds to keep their love alive.

WHEN LOVE HAPPENS AGAIN

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For more information contact: [email protected] 18 THISDAY ˾FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG Email: [email protected] POLITICS 08114495324 SMS ONLY NIDCOM and the Dillemas of Our Diaspora Abiodun Adeniyi, a Mass Communication teacher at Baze University, Abuja, expresses concern that the Nigerian in Diaspora Commission might be moribund, after the tenure of its present charge, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa

t was interesting listening in, at a community are ready to return. Maybe recent symposium organized by the and maybe not. We can check: for a lot of Nigerian in Diaspora Commission them, the comfort of the distant location (NIDCOM). Entiitled ‘Mobilizing they are in, have to be replicated, if they Nigerians in the Diaspora for have to return. What are these comforts? INational Development’, the symposium Constant power supply, security of lives was supposedly another conversation and prosperity, good roads, good jobs, around exploring the potentials of the etc. This is about those doing well, and absent citizens. It was valuable, and not those still negotiating integration, consistent with the image of NIDCOM statutes, or economics. as one that is rich in ideas, but often How about the assumption that unfortunately weak in execution. This Nigeria is still a home for many of weakness is no fault of theirs, neverthe- them? There should be doubts on this. less, for some reasons. This is because home, in modern times, First is poor funding, and second be- has become increasingly subjective, cause of a subtly loud indifference for its with instantaneous technologies, and mandate. Third, is some suspected threat motivations for travelling and dwell- of a conflict of responsibility between it ing, and with the heightened sense of and the overarching Foreign Ministry, co-presence, regardless of distance. For leading to a real but unacknowledged many, they have constructed another tension. Fourth is the poor structural and home overtime, through marriages, facility support it presently has, plus a through encouraging and supporting disinterest in helping them out, or even and inviting family members, and home a concern for denying them of the little is no longer as missed. It is here-where they have, especially with the recent we are at; and not where we are from treatment they got from the penitent (due regards to Gilroy). The myth of fanatic, and Minister of Communication, home has been shattered. They have Dr. Isa Pantami. Fifth, is the hitherto demythologized it, as Robins and Akor inability to appreciate the full import describe it; and unhelped by the retro- of diasporic influence, aside from the gression, or lack of development in the short-term benefit of remittance. ‘home’ left behind. A proper map of the That said, NIDCOM actually also Nigerian Diaspora would help discern looks like an organization that might all these. be moribund, after its present charge, they can fit in, if not through physical integrations and much else? There is also a reason Indians cre- Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa. Reason being return but through remote knowledge Let’s see again: we also often assume ated structures for diasporic return that the evolution of the organization transfer, partnerships, corporations, that many members of the diasporic and integration. It is essentially about has substantially benefitted from the harnessing their possibilities and poten- predominant brand of the chairperson, tials. The Chinese have been smart about as a former television woman, a legisla- theirs, largely encouraging return, if to tor, with a focus on diaspora matters, Political Leaders Unite contribute to the late century rise of the before becoming a presidential adviser Asian Empire, even though nearly 200 on diaspora, besides her conscious or Chinese students can still be counted in unconscious glamour. Her progress in to Save Nigeria western universities, annually. This lot the public sphere has arguably been Businessman and presidential candidate in 2019.general election, do not pretend about being a diaspora synonymous with diaspora issues, (like ours are easily classed), but only making her a factor in the description of Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim has called on political leaders and other education migrants, returning soon after Nigeria diaspora. stakeholders to unite and save Nigeria from imminent collapse qualifications. The full effect of this on Add her passion, media initiative, the Chinese are still being consolidated. and a level of influence she covets, plus ore than ever before, now and unity so as to give hope to the Even continuing. is the time for political citizens who desperately need to her stimulus, and it would be tougher leaders in the country, be assured that their father land can Added to the above is the experience to deny the effect of her brand. Then irrespective of their still work for them. behind the easy integration of Austra- remember how institutions come and go, politicalM or ideological leanings, to The challenges confronting lians in Earl’s court, London; and the how they are rather revolving around put heads together in order to agree Nigeria are larger than any par- Germans in Argentina; aside from the individuals, and personalities instead of on a workable agenda to stabilize ticular party in government or in Hong- Kongers in Canada; the Indians growing a life of their own, plus the pres- our bleeding nation. In the past, we opposition, they are bigger than any in America; the Lebanese, Palestinians, have worked with Nigerian patri- group’s interest or ambition, they ent marginal attention the organization ots from sections of the country. require the goodwill of all patriots Indians and Chinese in Nigeria and in is receiving, then you are likely to feel for This effort to forge broad based to resolve, and our best collective West Africa; the Chinese in South–East the important organization in the post- alliances and understanding has wisdom as a people. Asia; the Greeks, the Mexicans, the Irish, Dabiri-Erewa years. The exception is if been the hallmark of our engage- On our own part we recommended and the Turks in America; the Pakistanis she probably becomes a foreign minister, ment in politics over the years. We a six point agenda as a pathway in Britain, and the Jews in Europe and vice-president, or a president; or just if demonstrated this with the Peoples to security and peace in our land. the Americas. Where can we say Nige- she sustains an effect, strong enough to Trust, the party on whose ticket Please permit me to restate them . rians are, besides an initial assumption we contested the 2019 Presidential Establish a Defence Co-operation continue supporting them after her time. election. Agreement (DCA) with a friendly that the Igbos once preferred the United And then this: I am imagining the poor More than any other Presidential nation to halt the enemy’s advance. States, while the Yorubas fancy the attention to the organization has resulted aspirant in that contest, we pains- Those who are fighting Nigeria are , and that the Hausa/ or is resulting into a suspected inability takingly went through a rigorous from all over the world, the enemy Fulani desire countries in the Middle to lead a comprehensive or a more cred- process of reconciliation with the is multinational in its composition. East? ible mapping of the supposed Nigerian Igbos, of course the Chairman of We must put our house in order What are the migrants or diasporic our party, Mr. Olisa Agbakoba by resolving internal wrangling Diaspora membership, in such a manner and my running mate, the late Dr. through dialogue, fairness, and citizens doing in all these places, assum- that skill sets will be identified, aside Arthur Nwankwo are eminent justice. ing they are genuinely settled? What separating the wheat from the chaff. Igbos. The Forum of Middle Belt We must have a broad-based cabi- statistics do we have regarding the In doing this mapping, it would have Leaders decided to back me after a net that can inspire hope, efficiency, present-day rush to Canada, the crave been possible to differentiate between thorough screening process. In the and national unity. for the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Nigerian migrants’ workers and educa- North-west, my ancestral heritage We must immediately create the the detours to China, including the was a big factor. Leveraging on the framework for states and local gov- tion sojourners from the real diasporic support of the Awolowo dynasty ernments to have their own police. traditional interest in popular traditional community-a membership supposedly really helped our campaign in the All states should have concurrent destinations like UK, the US, and other made up of citizens, largely settled and South-west. jurisdiction over mineral resources countries of the West? How about the prosperous in the distant countries, but Therefore, as always, I am once within their state and pay taxes to circular migrants, those literally living still respectful of Nigeria as inherited again reiterating my believe in a the federal purse. excellently between the borders, moving origin. united and indivisible Nigeria. We must decentralize electricity hither and thither, perhaps for business, Despite the ominous signs that are generation, transmission via local A proper map would also enable the everywhere, unfortunately many grid and distribution. This should sports, entertainment, or for investment identification of those merely remember- are still carrying on as if it is busi- be on the concurrent list. reasons? High-flying journalists Dele ing the country as an imaginary ancestral ness as usual, while it is not! Time is running out for orderly Momodu, Dele Olojede, Dapo Oloru- home, never to be returned to, never to The nation is on fire and we must resolution of the issues giving lead- nyomi, Dupe Ashama, businessman, be appreciated, but which the govern- put it out right now! Nigeria’s ership on a road-map for peace and Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, and our sport ment still takes for granted as members political leaders across political security at this critical time is the exports are examples here. of the Nigerian Diaspora. How about lines in government and out of least we owe our people who have government must urgently arrive suffered to much deprivation. knowing the celebrated professionals, at a consensus to secure the country Every leader must get up to be NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the predominating the media for their feasts, and return it to a path of peace counted. online edition on www.thisdaylive.com and doing a sectorial analysis of where THISDAY ˾FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 19

PERSPECTIVE Why Federal Government Must Address the Demands of Southern Governors The Return of the Trumpster and Kayode Ajulo, an Abuja-based constitutional lawyer agrees with the spirit and letter of the recent the Sacrificing of Liz Cheney communique issued by governors of Southern Chido Nwangwu, Publisher, USAfricaonline.com salutes Nigeria states after its meeting in Asaba the courage of Rep. Liz Cheney, recently removed by her t is incontrovertible that the com- colleagues from the Republican Party House leadership munique released at the meeting of for repeatedly condemning former President Donald the Southern governors at Asaba has trickled a lot of reactions from different Trump for his provocative lies which claim baselessly quartersI of the federation, particularly that the 2020 Unites States of America presidential from political pundits, legal minds and concerned members of the society. election was “stolen” I have carefully and pensively spectated the content of the said communique and ev- tlers colleagues that “If you want lead- eryone with a right thinking mind should ers who will enable and spread his commend the Southern governors who, destructive lies, I’m not your person; without prejudice to their various political you have plenty of others to choose divides, ideologies and idiosyncrasies have from. That will be their legacy…. But presented a common front to ensuring a I promise you this, after today, I will prompt and lasting amelioration to the be leading the fight to restore our spate of insecurity which has beleaguered party and our nation to conservative the country like cascading tumults. principles, to defeating socialism, to Snippet of the communique was hinged defending our republic, to making the basically on the following: GOP worthy again of being the party a. the imperative of banning open of Lincoln.” grazing of cattle across Southern Nigeria Consequently, under this arrangement, And, she warned that Trump’s and the need for the Federal Government the level of interaction between individual rhetorics and nonsense about “stolen to support “willing” states to develop ethnic groups, cultures, traditions, religions election” were threats to the demo- alternative and modern livestock manage- from different backgrounds has translated cratic culture of these United States, ment system; into ethnic and political misunderstand- damages the rule of law and short b. the imperative of a national dialogue ing, mistrust, dominations, conflicts and changes the citizens, diminishes the by the Federal Government to resolve crises as one may not be considerate with GOP brand, etc. Cheney was emphatic agitations on federal character; one another. As a result, there are fears, when she stated that: c. review of revenue allocation formula suspicions, intolerance, grieves and greed “Trump is seeking to unravel in favour of the sub-national governments domination among most communities in critical elements of our constitutional and creation of other institutions which the country and especially in the North t’s official- Liz Cheney structure that make democracy work legitimately advance our commitment to which has so many ethnic minorities. has been fired from House — confidence in the result of elections and practice of true federalism; The principle of ‘Federal Character’ Leadership and I was proud and the rule of law. No other Ameri- d. the need for the restructuring of the has been largely recognised by the 1999 to vote against her,” Rep. can president has ever done this. The Nigerian federation leading to the evolu- Constitution. Chapter Two of the Constitu- “ILance Gooden (Republican from Republican Party is at a turning point, tion of state police; tion is dedicated to fundamental objectives Texas), yelled, literally on Twitter. and Republicans must decide whether e. the need for greater coordination and and directive principles of state policy. Alongside a couple of right-wing we are going to choose truth and cooperation between federal and state With specific reference to section 14(1) hotheads and Trumpian junkies, a fidelity to the Constitution. In the im- governments in evolving strategies for (c) of the Constitution, the section provides majority of the House Republicans mediate wake of the violence of Jan. 6, dealing with the pandemic; that the participation by the people in their were giddy and enthusiastic in boot- almost all of us knew the gravity and f. the imperative of addressing the nation government shall be ensured in accordance ing out this Wednesday, May 12, 2021, the cause of what had just happened on the state of insecurity by Mr. President with the provisions of the Constitution. the truly conservative Republican — we had witnessed it firsthand. in order to restore the confidence of the Section 14(3) provides that: Congresswoman from Wyoming I am a conservative Republican, and people. “The composition of the government of from her leadership post. Her crime? the most conservative of conservative As a preliminary point, it is pertinent to the federation or any of its agencies and the She challenged the errant, divisive values is reverence for the rule of law. state that while it seems that the country conduct of its affairs shall be carried out and destructive lies and ways of the Each of us swears an oath before God has been pushed to the brink of a precipice in such a manner as to reflect the federal impeached former President, Donald to uphold our Constitution. The elec- by the trajectory of banditry, kidnapping character of Nigeria and the need to pro- J. Trump. toral college has spoken. More than and attempted treason, collegial efforts mote national unity, and also to command That one; Trump, the messy and 60 state and federal courts, including must be put in place to save the country national loyalty, thereby ensuring that there pugnacious god of the nativists and multiple Trump-appointed judges, from the dire quagmire which we have shall be no predominance of persons from violent groups and rings of conspiracy have rejected the former president’s found ourselves. a few states or from a few ethnic or other theorists who have captured the soul arguments, and refused to overturn What the Southern governors have sectional groups in that Government or in of the increasingly race-baiting politi- election results. That is the rule of law; assiduously displayed is a great milieu of any of its agencies. cal group who nominally gather under that is our constitutional system for nationalism. A fore-runner idea that what Varying sections such as Section 15 to the banner of the Republican. resolving claims of election fraud. has been happening in the country in the Section 24 give deference and credence to Liz, the 54-years old first daughter The question before us now is past few years is not an ethnic affair nor is the need for all-inclusiveness in the run- of the former Vice President Dick whether we will join Trump’s crusade it right to call it an inter-party face-off”. It ning of the government at the federal, state Cheney (under George W. Bush) has to delegitimize and undo the legal baffles the mind how persistently we fall and local government levels respectively. repeatedly condemned Trump for outcome of the 2020 election, with all prey to the divide-and-rule tactics! To be Thirdly, on the issue of the need to his toxic and false and provocative the consequences that might have. sure, we must admit that the actions and reflect true federalism, there is at present lies which claim baselessly that the I have worked overseas in nations utterances of some sections of the country widespread discontent with the country’s presidential election was “stolen” due where changes in leadership come have lent credence to this unfortunate trib- federal structure and arrangements. All the to (wait for it!) “massive voter fraud”. only with violence, where democracy alisation of issues in Nigeria. The “our-son, constitutional, political and judicial aspects Trump riled up the violent mob that takes hold only until the next violent our-own” syndrome, so prominent and of the federal system need to be openly set upon and attacked the U.S Capitol upheaval. America is exceptional agog in the Nigerian political landscape discussed. Issues such as revenue alloca- on January 6, 2021— with the core goal because our constitutional system has aided an increasing sectionalisation of tions from the Federation Account to the of interfering and interrupting the guards against that. At the heart of our national issues. three levels of government; the position of certification of Joe Biden’s electoral republic is a commitment to the peace- Let us be clear on a point: I believe the is- local government in the federal system. victory. The mob was assembled by ful transfer of power among political sue at hand is one of constitutionalism and Fourthly, on the issue of creation of state Trump and his cronies —Including his rivals in accordance with law.” rule of law not sectional or regional issues. police, there is a need for the creation of “lawyer” Rudy Guiliani who raised I believe that the fight ahead of the We must eliminate the blindness which still state police which makes it imperative the graeco-roman era “trial by com- 2022 mid-term elections and the 2024 obscures the truth of that position. that the 1999 Nigerian Constitution be bat”! as an option available for them presidential elections in the U.S will Firstly, on the issue of ban of open graz- amended to give states of the federation and the congressional representatives be very interesting. Will these grovel- ing, it is an open secret that the herdsmen- the leverage to create their own police for at the Hill. He said this, openly, a few ing, linguini-spine Republicans who farmers crisis in the Southern part is one better efficiency, faster results as this will blocks that crazy and shameful after- whenever Trump screamed “Jump!”, of the underlining issues of insecurity in lead to a tremendous improvement in state noon near the Capitol. they yelled back “how high”. It will Nigeria. Placing a ban on open grazing will security and in general national security. It She was a portrait in courage and be a showdown between the forces keep at bay the incessancy of the crisis. must be noted that Item 45 of the Exclusive principle on January 6 when the of democractic rights and multiracial Secondly, on the issue of integration, it Legislative List currently places Police Trump goon squads desecrated the empowerment against the followers suffices to note that Nigeria is a country and Security in the control of the Federal congressional dignity and grace of the of power-drunk thin-gods, loqua- with more than 250 ethnic groups and Government. temples of American democracy. cious, racially-polarizing and quasi- with an estimated population of about Liz, this Wednesday at the House autocratic movements filled with the 170,123,740, according to the 2006 census NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the shameful fix to oust the courageous ne-insurrectionists, nihilists and other which makes it by far to be the most online edition on www.thisdaylive.com congresswoman told her power hus- uniformed hustlers. populated country in the whole of Africa. 20 FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 •THISDAY THISDAY ˾ ͯͲ˜ͰͮͰͯ 21

Group Business Editor Obinna Chima Email [email protected] BUSINESSWORLD 08152447875 ͵˜ͰͮͰͯ MONEY MARKET REPO S & P INDEX S & P INDEX EXCHANGE RATE OBB ͯͲ˛͵ͳϱ CALL ͯͲ˛ͳͮϱ INDEX LEVEL ͳͮʹ˛Ͳͯϱ 1/4 TO DATE ̋ͷ˛ͱ͵ϱ ͱ͵ͷ˹ͯ ̩ OVERNIGHT ͯͳ˛Ͱͳϱ 1-MONTH ͯʹ˛ͳͮϱ 1-DAY ̋ͮ˛ͯͳϱ YEAR TO DATE -24.45ϱ ̩   3-MONTH ͯ͵˛ͳͮϱ MONTH-TO-DATE ̋ͯ˛ͯʹϱ

Quick Takes Air Peace Celebrates Eid-el-Fitri Air Peace delighted its customers with numerous in-flight gifts during this year’s Eid-El- Fitri celebration, just as it did during the Easter celebrations. The airline said the objective of the gesture was to put smiles on the faces of the customers for choosing Air Peace. Passengers stand a chance to win gifts such as Thermo water-flask, Food flasks, Diaries, Umbrellas, Notebook Bottle, Remote organisers and Free HMO (Health Maintenance Organisation) cards starting from Wednesday, May 12 and will run through the week. The campaign entails placement of gift cards in random seat pockets and during the flight and passengers were told to check the seat pockets in front of them to know if they have won a gift or not. Spokesperson of Air Peace, Stanley Olisa, reiterated the airline’s commitment to offering unparalleled flight experience while also expressing gratitude to all customers for their continued patronage. He added that the promo was an extension of the airline’s Random Acts of Love campaign which is geared at showing love to the customers for flying with the airline. Air Peace had initiated its Random Acts of Love scheme during Easter last month, to appreciate its teeming customers for their loyalty. PROMOTING MARITIME LAW L-R: Former President, Nigeria Maritime Law Association (NMLA), Mr. Louis Mbanefo; Chairman, Seaport Terminal Operators Green Africa to Commence Operations Upcoming domestic carrier, Green Africa has announced it would start Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Vicky Haastrup; newly elected President of NMLA, Mrs. Funke Agbor, and immediate past direct flight connections from the commercial hub of Lagos (LOS) President, Mr. Chidi Ilogu, at the inauguration of the new executives of the association in Lagos...recently into Akure (AKR), Ilorin (ILR), Abuja (ABV), Enugu (ENU), Owerri (QOW) and Port Harcourt (PHC) as its launch route network ahead of entry into service. The airline made this known when it unveiled its plans to commence flight operations from its Lagos base at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT), to the seven cities above after completion of its ongoing FG Moves to Control Low-flying Air Operator Certificate (AOC) process with the NCAA which, it said, is now in advanced stages. Green Africa said additional cities within Nigeria would be added as the airline scaled its operations, stating Aircraft in Nigeria’s Airspace that plans were already underway to establish two more operational bases outside Lagos to stimulate air travel and provide more options Chinedu Eze AVIATION of the aircraft. the country. The installation is to customers. This was confirmed by the being done right now in these The airline further stated that the route launch would facilitate increased In order to further secure The objective of the federal Managing Director of the areas and we are hoping that economic and trade activities within Nigeria. Nigeria’s airspace and be able government in completing the Nigerian Airspace Management the project will be completed Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Green Africa said, Babawande to identify every aircraft flying project is to enable air traffic Agency (NAMA), Captain Fola before the end of this year after Afolabi, “Starting with our launch route network, we are crafting a network in any part of the country, the controllers identify aircraft Akinkuotu, who told THISDAY we have acquired the site for plan that will afford more customers the opportunity to pursue their federal government has moved flying below the radar or that when completed the equip- installation,” Akinkuotu said. economic interest or simply spend more time with family and friends. to complete the Wider Area cannot be captured by the ment would capture all the He explained that acquiring “Our three key product offerings – gSaver, gClassicTM and gFlexTMwill Mulitlateration project, which is Total Radar Coverage of low flying aircraft that have the site involves dealing with afford customers the value of choice and flexibility.” Green Africa recently received its first aircraft with the second and aimed at identifying low flying Nigeria (TRACON). activated and correspondent third parties that must provide third aircraft expected to arrive soon. aircraft, which include single There are reports that indi- transponders in the airspace. support for the project. The airline said facilities and infrastructures are now in place to support engine equipment, helicopters cate that unauthorised aircraft He said the major objectives The sites are the locations commercial, flight, and airport operations. and others. may have been operating in of the project are to commu- where the equipment would Wide Area Multilateration Nigeria’s airspace below the nicate to these aircraft while be mounted and it is expected Qatar to Participate in Economic Forum (WAM) is a surveillance height that could be captured airborne and also to monitor that the sites would be fortified Qatar Airways will be one of the leading international companies attending technology that works by by the radar. movement of aircraft in the and protected. the upcoming St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), employing multiple small Although these reports airspace, which is part of THISDAY learnt that the scheduled to take place in St. Petersburg, Russia, from June 2nd to 5th. remote sensors throughout an have not been confirmed, but security checks. project would provide service Now in its 24th edition, SPIEF is one of the largest investment and area to compensate for terrain the federal government has “We are installing Wide to oil and gas flight services, economy-focused event of its kind in the world and will feature the State of Qatar as a guest country. Held under the patronage of the obstruction, which enables air intensified effort to complete Area Multilateration in the old helicopter shuttles and aircraft Russian President Mr. Vladimir Putin every year, SPIEF is organised traffic controllers to apply more the WAM project in order to eastern region (including South oil and gas crew movements in by Roscongress Foundation and convenes individuals from leading efficient separation standards have comprehensive identifica- South and South Eastern part of the Niger Delta area, where the Russian and international companies, political figures, and business for the aircraft operating in tion of every aircraft in the the country) and later we will mangrove and seaside terrain leaders from around the world. The State of Qatar’s honorary position the affected airspace. airspace no matter the height extend the project to all parts of need special attention. at the Forum as a guest country demonstrates the dedication and commitment of both countries to further cement their existing economic, cultural and tourism relations. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) is a hugely important Shippers Council Seeks FG’s Support global event, and economic development will be of paramount importance following the damage done by the pandemic. “Qatar Airways is proud to be among the key drivers of trade between to Build N15bn Resource Centre the State of Qatar and the Russian Federation, as demonstrated by our continuous commitment to the Russian market throughout the Eromosele Abiodun MARITIME first governor to visit the ment, tourism, and intellectual years. We are looking forward to welcoming guests and visitors to our NSC Office to discuss the development. exhibition stand, where they can experience our world-class products The Nigerian Shippers’ Council all times by the NSC. This zone, development of the Jos Dry He added that the centre and hospitality firsthand.” (NSC) has sought the support this state, this city deserves no Port. He is frank, patriotic and would have huge socio-eco- of the Federal Ministry of less than this. I am sure I will scientific. He believes in the nomic impacts on the state and Transportation to build an find support from the Federal strong economic pluralism of urged the Plateau government international maritime resource Ministry of Transportation, the his state. We sincerely hope to partner with the Council in centre in Jos estimated to cost Plateau State Government and that the Jos Dry Port will be actualising this project. “Nigerian airlines N15 billion. the private sector.” completed by the first quarter “You have my assurance The Executive Secretary of Bello, while welcoming of 2022,”he said. that the Federal Ministry of are trying to build NSC, Mr. Hassan Bello, dis- the private sector of Jos and He appreciated the Minister Transportation and its agencies their own aircraft closed this at the inauguration its environs, was quoted in of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi are here to partner with the of the council’s North-Central a statement to have said the Amaechi, for his sense of great state, Plateau, to achieve maintenance Coordinating office complex in office being inaugurated was spotting economic ventures its potential,”he said. facility. How are Jos, Plateau. built for them, dedicated to the and sticking to them, adding Amaechi said that the Federal The NSC boss said the upliftment of International trade, that the rail revolution would Ministry of Transportation they going to centre on completion would shipping and transportation. have a profound impact on through the NSC’s activities attract market include a five – star hotel, a He thanked the Governor of the economic ambition of the highlights the benefits of when there is shopping mall, a restaurant, Plateau State, Mr. Simon Lalong country. the maritime sector as the multi-purpose halls and a fully for his economic pursuit and The Minister of Transporta- best alternative for economic proliferation of automated conference centre for believing that the Jos Dry tion, Amaechi, in his response, diversification. maintenance with a capacity for 2,500 people. Port is an economic investment, said that the Maritime Resource He added that the transporta- According to the NSC boss, a catalyst for employment and Centre that the council was tion sector had the potential facilities?” “This project will be delivered an avenue to place the state promoting is a project with for employment, investment CEO of Belujane Konsult, through Public-Private Partner- on the global map of export. tremendous economic potential and growth of the nation’s Chris Aligbe ship and will be supported at “Governor Lalong is the for the state in terms of employ- international trade. 22 THISDAY ˾ ͯͲ˜ͰͮͰͯ

    BAGAIA to Develop Integrated Flight Data Analysis for States Stories by Chinedu Eze called on the Guinea CAA to sioner in response stated that deepen the country’s member- only logistics would be handled The Banjul Accord Accident ship of BAGAIA by meeting their by the state of occurrence since investigation Agency (BAGAIA) obligations to the regional body, they are contributing their quota As Marriot Hotel Opens is planning to develop a $1.5 especially with regards to clearing as enshrined in the Agreement. million integration of Flight their outstanding subscription. He went further to say that in Lagos Data Analysis Capability for The Guinean Civil Aviation there were so many values to tap member states. Authority Director General, Mr. or gain from BAGAIA activities It is expected to provide Mamady Kaba, while welcoming with offerings of trainings and each state with a core analysis the BAGAIA Commissioner to assistance in ICAO Universal capability with Nigeria’s Accident Conakry, promised that indepen- Safety Oversight Audit Pro- Investigation Bureau (AIB-N) dent Investigation Agency would gramme (USOAP) activities and existing Flight Data Recorder be established in few months collaboration with other states and Cockpit Voice Recorder to come, being that the Act is as the case may be. (FDR/CVR) Safety lab as the in the final stage to see to it On the proposal for Flight central hub for expert technical come to fruition. Data Analysis Capability for support. He also said Guinea would member states as highlighted in BAGAIA Commissioner, clear its outstanding once the the commissioner’s presentation, Charles Irikefe Erhueh, made Act was signed into law. the proposal once it reached frui- this known recently, when he “That the papers for the tion would provide each State was a guest of the Guinean creation of the AIG was created with a core Flight Data Analysis Civil Aviation Authority in 3 years ago and they are looking capability with the world-class Conakry where he discussed forward for it assent into law” Nigerian AIB existing FDR/CVR the importance of the regional that they are willing to clear of Safety lab as the central hub for aircraft accident investigative the outstanding when the Act is expert technical support. body and steps taken to keep signed into law with the measure The BAGAIA Commissioner it thriving. they will put in place,” he added. in his remarks thanked the DG Erhueh also pointed out The BAGAIA Commissioner and his cabinet for the warm the importance of establishing was happy and assured the reception received since his an independent Investigation commitment of BAGAIA to arrival. body separate from Civil member states in ensuring that He also visited the Air Navi- Marriott hotel Aviation Authority in Guinea the country is up to speed as gation Agency of Guinea and to investigate aircraft accidents aviation is global. had brief meeting the Director Chinedu Eze the materials and equipment that were used expressing optimism that Guinea They further deliberated on General Mr. Soumah Ahmed in order to serve our clients the best. As a would show interest just as issues involving who pays for Tidiane with the deputy Hadja Multi-billion naira Marriot Hotel, Ikeja Lagos, man that has travelled all over the world and Sierra Leone and others have Investigation when it is delegated Oumou Diallo where he was would be opened next Wednesday to provide experienced first-hand hospitality at its peak, done. The commissioner also to BAGAIA, and the commis- welcome. unique hospitality service to Nigerians and our Chairman, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, decided to others who yearn for luxury, efficient service, build this hotel in Nigeria in order to promote good taste and entertainment. the hospitality and tourism industry in Lagos The new hotel, which has redefined the and provide opportunities to further improve Emirates to Participate in Arabian skyline of Ikeja GRA adds grace and aesthetics the economy,” he added. to the beauty of Joel Ogunnaike Street and The hotel, built on 11 floors, has various Travel Market environs and boasts to be the best Marriot modern facilities like exclusive crew lounge, Hotel in Africa. VIP lounges, 1,000-capacity ballroom, execu- Emirates will be showcasing they get back to the skies. with 6-way adjustable headrests, The hotel which operates under Mack Folly tive meeting rooms, 400-capacity car park, its premium economy seats for The highly-anticipated calf rests and footrests. Limited, a subsidiary of Skyway Group is 206 standard rooms, 44 suites (including three the first time at Arabian Travel Emirates premium economy Customers will also find located about 15 minutes to the Murtala presidential ones), well-equipped gym and Market 2021 (ATM). seat will be on display for other details including easily Muhammed International Airport and is continental restaurants, among others. The region’s leading travel visitors to experience. The seat accessible in-seat charging built as aviation hub of the group, which The General Manager, Lagos Marriot and tourism exhibition will run boasts of an abundant pitch of points, a wide dining table and is into aviation, maritime, oil and gas and Hotel, Rudi Janse Van Resnburg said the from 16th to 19th May, and up to 40-inches, and visitors side cocktail table, as well as hospitality services. nine meeting rooms occupies about 14,864 will be the first in-person travel trying out Emirates’ premium a storage area. The hotel has inimitable structural design sq ft of total meeting space. industry event to take place economy seat will also notice its Emirates will also show- that stands out from other hospitality facilities He said the hotel maintains Marriot global since the onset of the pandemic. generous width of 19.5 inches case its Boeing 777-300ER in Lagos state and it targets to provide the standard, tinged with African and Nigerian The Emirates stand will offer and ability to recline into a game-changer First Class aviation industry special services, which signatures, adding that in addition to many travel industry visitors from comfortable cradle position fully enclosed private suites includes hosting airlines’ crew and provid- restaurants, it also has outdoor restaurant over 60 countries a chance to with ample room to stretch exhibit, Boeing 777 Business ing secure and easy movement to and from with Nigerian style where guests can go and experience the airline’s product out. The seats are covered in Class seat, the newly refreshed the airport. get their suya, roasted fish and chicken and and recently introduced service cream-coloured anti-stain leather A380 OnBoard lounge, along The hotel is arguably the best in terms of where guests will experience Nigerian cuisine. enhancements across every with automobile inspired stitch- with other iconic products lounges, restaurants, conference centres, “The hotel carries African and Nigerian feel cabin class onboard its iconic ing details and a wood panel such the First Class Shower high-class rooms and guest satisfaction. to maintain our heritage. So it is international A380 aircraft, and is a reminder finishing similar to business Spa and the latest version of Managing Director of Mac Folly Limited, hotel with African and Nigerian influences. of the elevated onboard experi- class, all designed to provide the game-changer Economy Chike Ogeah, during a media briefing dis- It has different lounges and places where ences in store for travellers once optimal comfort and support Class seats. closed that it took the Skyway Group about guests can stay out of their rooms and still six years to complete the project, adding that maintain their privacy and also a ball room it was built in accordance to the high standard that can host 1000 people,” Resnburg said. of the Marriot legacy with attention paid to He said the desire to offer premium hos- Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom Partners every minute detail to give the facility its pitality services to the Lagos market was uniqueness. responsible for the huge investment in the Ibom Air “The hotel cost about N400-N450 billion hotel. and took about six years to complete. Every “Every client of Lagos Marriott Hotel is set The Govern- neighbour to Bayelsa in so business principle of, “starting utility and equipment in the hotel is unique. for an unimaginable premium experience like ment has opened partnership many ways over the years, small to grow big,” by going Materials imported to build this hotel came never before. We assure them of world-class discussions with its Akwa which must be reciprocated for a 50-Seater aircraft in its to about 700 containers and it took relatively hospitality, super customer satisfaction and Ibom counterpart on the use “in the spirit of give and take”. present deal with Ibom Air to less time because Skyway is into Maritime. royalty treatment. Frequent travelers who of the new domestic carrier, He expressed optimism that promote socioeconomic activities “We worked with Marriot to build the hotel have points using the Marriott hotel franchise Ibom Air to start commercial the partnership deal would in the state. and they inspected everything that was put globally can also redeem their points here in flight operations at the Bayelsa soon be sealed for the airline Ewhrudjakpo, who likened into the facility to ensure that it meets their Nigeria too. We have an in-club system for International Airport. to commence flights to and efforts for acquiring the high, global standards. What we have here is our premium members located on the first Speaking as the leader of a from Bayelsa, Lagos and Abuja, operational licence to Nelson classic luxury, the Marriot style and this is the floor of the hotel. high-powered delegation from describing the two routes as Mandela’s “Long walk to first kind of structure in sub-Sahara Africa. “The unique selling propositions of this Bayelsa at a meeting in Uyo, the highest in traffic for the Freedom”, however, added “We want to use the hotel as aviation hub hotel are the various amazing products we the capital, people of the state. that government, had plans to and bring in all the airlines. This is why we offer our clients which are non-existent in the the Deputy Governor, Senator The Deputy Governor as- do business with other airlines located the hotel very close to the airport. country’s hospitality industry. The security Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, noted sured Bayelsans and members in the near future. So we are bringing aviation and hospitality of our guests is very paramount to us and that the choice of Ibom Air of the public of the present “Basically, we are here to together,” Ogeah said. that’s why every door and window in the was informed by proximity administration’s commitment to discuss how we can have He applauded the Group Executive Vice facility is bombproof. Our pricing is also very and good bilateral relations ensure smooth operations at the mutually beneficial partnership Chairman, SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi commensurate with the quality that we offer.” between the two states. state airport, which is adjudged with your airline, IbomAir. And for bankrolling the multi-billion Naira invest- Rensburg further noted that the hotel, which Ewhrudjakpo, in a statement to be one of the best in the our target is on any of your ment, adding that his vision of a premium is in the classic premium category on the by his Senior Special Assistant country by the Nigerian Civil aircraft that has the capacity hospitality business in Lagos has manifested Marriott quality ranking, will be managed on Media, Mr. Doubara Atasi, Aviation Authority (NCAA). of about 50 seaters because we through the new hotel. by the franchise owner, Marriott Hotel, for explained that Akwa Ibom has According to him, the state don’t want to start too big,” “We took our time to tastefully select all quality assurance purposes. proved itself as a dependable government was applying the he said. THISDAY ˾ ͯͲ˜ͰͮͰͯ 23 BUSINESSWORLD ANALYSIS Hope Rising for Leasing Company The Ministry of Aviation recently notified the industry that the federal government’s plan to establish aircraft leasing company is still in progress. Chinedu Eze writes that the initiative will significantly improve capacity of Nigerian airlines and could bring down airfares.

he Minister of Aviation, Senator be a problem anymore because the lessors Hadi Sirika recently announced would like to know who they are giving their that the federal government has aircraft so they usually engage the services progressed in its plan to establish of referrals but in Nigeria this will not be aircraft leasing company and make difficult. Your bank knows you; the leasing itT easier for Nigerian carriers and others in company will be able to identify you. So West Africa to lease aircraft. Government you eliminate the distrust on whom you are said the leasing company would provide dealing with. opportunities for Nigerian and African “Do you know that in the past Nigerian airlines in order to boost fleet size; allevi- companies register companies in the countries ate the problems of aircraft leasing and the where they hope to lease aircraft from and attendant high insurance premium charges. use those companies to lease the aircraft; just The Ministry of Aviation said the aircraft to overcome the problem of identity? So this leasing company has been structured as a hurdle will be scaled when a local leasing joint venture between the government and company I established,” he said. the private sector, adding that its business Akpan also stated that such leasing company objectives would be to initially lease aircraft would enhance the leasing of engines, other from international lessors and subsequently aircraft parts, even handling equipment, sub-lease to African airlines and in the future remarking that Nigerian handling companies acquire and own its aircraft. liaise with foreign partners in order to lease “Government is considering providing heavy-duty equipment, but now it would be financial guarantee and ensuring fiscal easier for such Nigerian handling companies. incentives to facilitate the success of the “Another benefit is that it will be easier for leasing company,” the Ministry said. the leasing company with government backing Government also said it is at advanced to access foreign exchange than by individual stage in the procurement phase and that companies. This will be a big advantage. In a preferred partner has been selected and addition to that local companies can interact negotiations would soon commence, adding easily. A lot of bottlenecks will be eliminated that the next move would be to commence and negotiations will be done at the level negotiations with the preferred bidder. of knowledge,” he said.

Difficulty in Aircraft Leasing Reinforcing Cape Town Convention Before now it has been very difficult for In addition to establishing a leasing company, Nigerian carriers to lease aircraft because the former CEO of Aero Contractors, Captain of trust issues between the lessors and the Ado Sanusi, suggested that government should Nigerian carriers. This has forced Nigerian also reinforce the Cape Town Convention, airlines to buy and own their aircraft at a which would assure the leasing companies huge cost and this is also why many Nigerian that whenever there was a default on leasing operators acquire older equipment because aircraft by airline operators it would step in it is what they could afford; except now that to recover the aircraft. Air Peace has blazed the trail by acquiring He said government must have to inform new aircraft. the judiciary about the Cape Town Convention But in his early public statement when it signed and why courts should not stop he took over as the Director General of the the recovery of aircraft by the lessor after a Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) last Sirika default, noting that once there is a default, year, Captain Musa Nuhu, had promised that the lessor must recover his aircraft and the the agency would smoothen the process of and could now lease aircraft to Nigerian this protocol in Nigeria,” Akpan explained. issue should be resolved afterwards. aircraft leasing and also bring down insurance airlines without stringent measures that He said the major problem was that the Industry experts said leasing is the easiest premium on that score. described Nigeria as risky environment, lessors refused to lend to Nigerian operators way commercial airlines acquire aircraft in He said Nigerian airlines might soon which ups the insurance premium and after series of failure of some airlines to abide other parts of the world and major airlines, begin to lease aircraft without high insur- leasing rates. by tenets of agreements signed when they including well-known mega carriers, operate ance premium and rigid, outrageous leasing “If we continue to intervene for a longtime, leased the aircraft. largely leased aircraft. rates, as the federal government had stepped it is going to make it easier for Nigerian Some airlines in Nigeria had gone to court in to rebuild relationship between airlines operators to lease equipment, be it aircraft, when the NCAA attempted to help lessors Current Challenges and lessors. engine or whatever, it will also come at a recover their aircraft. Former Director General of the Nigerian Nuhu confirmed that after series of default competitive global rate rather than adding The Cape Town Convention on International Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and current on leasing agreements by some Nigerian premium because Nigeria is considered a Interests in Mobile Equipment, or Cape Town Rector, International Aviation College, Ilorin, carriers, lessors had stopped giving out their high risk market. These are part of the things Treaty is an international treaty intended to Benedict Adeyileka, highlighted challenges aircraft to operators despite the fact that we are doing,” Nuhu said. standardise transactions involving movable currently faced by domestic airlines in leasing Nigeria is signatory to Cape Town Convention, property. aircraft. which enables airlines of member countries Root of Distrust The treaty creates international standards Adeyileka, stressed that getting forex to lease aircraft at low rates. However, aviation economist and the for registration of contracts of sale (including remains a challenge for the airlines, disclosing The inability to lease aircraft has led to a Managing Director, Flight and Logistics dedicated registration agencies), security that while waiting to obtain dollars for the reduction in the number of operating aircraft Solutions, Amos Akpan, told THISDAY that interests (liens), leases and conditional sales payment the leasing window may elapse, before the COVID-19 lockdown and heightened that there was negative perception about the contracts, and various legal remedies for as other airlines may also be leasing aircraft the cost of airfares, as number of operating country in the global business transactions, default in financing agreements, including from the lessor. aircraft was not meeting the demand of noting that transactions with Nigerians carry repossession and the effect of particular “If you have your naira to lease aircraft, the passengers, forcing airlines to cancel and a high possibility of fraud and corruption. states’ bankruptcy laws. regulator and your bank will be the problem. delay flights, besides the exorbitant airfares. “This false propaganda makes those leasing The treaty came into force on 1 April 2004, They will be the stumbling block because of Nuhu had said the agency would guarantee aircraft to Nigerian airlines install unnecessary, and has been ratified by 57 parties. The Aircraft the scarcity of dollars. Another problem you lessors that it would protect their equipment difficult clauses which are not found in their Protocol (which applies specifically to aircraft will face is the exchange rate. The exchange leased to Nigerian carriers and with the new lease agreements with airlines from other and aircraft engines) took effect on 1 March rate is very high that you must have a lot assurance, lessors could now give out their countries. The situation is tilted against the 2006 when it was ratified by eight countries: of money in naira to earn the dollars that aircraft to Nigerian operators at relatively Nigerian to the extent that when the lessor Ethiopia, Ireland, Malaysia, Nigeria, Oman, will enable you to lease,” he said. lower rates. is in default, he gets away with it because of Panama, Pakistan, and the United States. Adeyileka pointed out that another major “We will work with Nigerian airlines that the preconception that the Nigerian should challenge was the leasing conditions, which lease aircraft and if there is any disagreement be in default. Benefits of Proposed FG’s Leasing is stringent for Nigerian carriers because we will intervene and resolve the issues “The Cape Town Convention addressed Company Nigeria is designated as high country risk. without having serious negative consequences this anomaly. The convention stipulates that Akpan told THISDAY there would be invalu- “You may even have the money but the on the Nigerian aviation market. all aircraft lease agreements be registered able benefits if government in collaboration lessor will not allow you to bring the aircraft “Of recent there was an airline in Northern with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) with the private sector establishes aircraft to Nigeria. Even if he allows you, he will Ireland that has issues with an operator in of the contracting states. leasing company. He said there would no slam high returns to it that you won’t be Nigeria over leased engines, we stepped in, “It further stipulates in case of default by more be those stringent conditions give to able to pay. When you look at what you intervened and we were able to resolve it the lessee in the agreement, the CAA shall Nigerian airlines by international lessors. He could be generating with the aircraft, you and the engines were returned to the lessor. grant permission to the lessor to fly out added that this would remove the hassles will find out that you won’t be able to raise “Honestly, from that singular act I got a lot her aircraft to a destination of her choice. in identifying the applicant because enough the leasing cost. of positive responses from the international Simply put, if the lessor applies to NCAA, information would be available about the “Then, another issue is that when you lease community. People are more relaxed to do she shall be granted permission by NCAA potential lessee; so the lessor would no more the aircraft, NCAA has its own stringent business with Nigerian airlines, knowing that to ferry out her aircraft. depend on referrals. conditions that you must face. The officials if their equipment got stuck in Nigeria; they “There have been instances that NCAA “Having a leasing company locally will will do pre-inspection of the aircraft and on are able to get their equipment back with successfully implemented the Cape Town have immense benefits for Nigerian carriers. arrival of the aircraft they will carry out post the help of the regulatory body,” he said. Convention protocol. Also, there are instances One, we won’t be exposed to lessors overseas arrival inspection in which the inspector can ask The Director General had said it would where the Nigerian courts have barred the with their stringent conditions, which are you for anything about the aircraft, including rebuild the confidence lessors have in Nigeria NCAA and the Lessor from implementing difficult to meet. The idea of identity will not manufacturing documents,” Adeyileka said. 24 THISDAY ˾ ͯͲ˜ͰͮͰͯ BUSINESSWORLD MARITIME Of Piracy and Nigeria’s Deep Blue Project Eromosele Abiodun writes that the International Maritime Bureau report describing Nigeria as most volatile in the Gulf of Guinea, accounting for half of the 38 piracy incidences seems to have made a mockery of the $195 million Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection Infrastructure, also called the Deep Blue Project

ast week, the International Maritime but are constrained to remain silent due to Bureau (IMB) once again described political pleasures. Nigerian waters as most volatile in Sources at the Navy, who pleaded anonymity the Gulf of Guinea, accounting for said the vessels been hired by the minister half of the 38 piracy incidences are in deplorable state and not sea worthy. reportedL in first quarter (Q1) of 2021 in the Some stakeholders are of the opinion that Gulf of Guinea. the $195 million contract breached procurement The bureau made this known in its Q1 2021 process adding that there was no open tender report for the period between January and before it was awarded. March. It said pirates had often raided ships “If so which other company bided with the in Nigeria to kidnap crews for ransom around Israeli firm? Did the minister just muscle his the water regions. way through by bypassing lay down procedure? IMB urged vessels to take additional security These are questions begging for answers, “said measures, adding that several attacks have a top player in the industry. gone unreported. Recently, the former chief of naval staff, Rear According to the IMB, “Nigeria (Lagos-Apapa, Admiral Dele Ezeoba, said the $195 million Off Bayelsa-Brass, and Bonny Island-Port maritime security contract entered into by Harcourt): Pirates/robbers are often well the federal government and an Israeli firm, armed and violent and have attacked, hijacked, Messrs HLSI Security Systems and Technologies robbed ships and kidnapped crews along far would fail. from the coast rivers, anchorages ports, and Ezeoba, who also frowned at the govern- surrounding waters. ment’s stance of contracting maritime security “Incidents have also been reported up to about contract to a security firm, said the government 200 nautical miles from the coast. Generally, all should instead provide adequate funding for waters in or off Nigeria remain highly risky. the Nigerian navy. Vessels are advised to be vigilant as many He said: “I feel pained because having been incidents may also have gone unreported; an active participant in all these matters, it kidnapping for ransom remains the biggest becomes disheartening to note that we are still risk for crews. Vessels are advised to take in a country where people play to the gallery. additional measures in these high-risk waters. Amaechi We have a constitutional mandate that anything In the past, tankers were also hijacked and that has to do with maritime security is the part cargo stolen (gas oil).” items, and escaped with 13-kidnapped crew. alleged that the Deep Blue Project has become sole responsibility of the Nigerian navy and IMB in the report added that 38 incidents “The tanker was left drifting with limited a drain pipe calling on Predident Muhammadu the country owe us as a constituent people of piracy and armed robbery against ships and unqualified navigational and engine Buhari to probe the project. a responsibility to fund the Nigerian navy were reported between January and March. crew onboard. A nearby merchant vessel later In a memo to the Federal Executive Council adequately to discharge its responsibilities It noted that the Golf of Guinea suffered the helped the tanker to sail to a safe port. The 13 (FEC) dated July 22, 2020, Amaechi had asked but instead, they go through the backdoor highest attacks within the period under review. kidnapped crewmembers were released safely for the government’s approval for the renewal to create some façade and instead of funding Countries located around the Gulf of Guinea one month after,” IMB said. of lease of fast intervention security vessels for the lead agency that should create the initiative include: Nigeria, Benin, Ghana, Togo, Sao a period of one year, claiming the $195 million to do the needful, they do the more you look, Tome and Principe, Democratic Republic of Failed Project already approved for the same purpose has the less we see.” Congo, Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, It is sad to know that Nigeria has invested been put on hold due to COVID-19. Ezeoba also stated that with Falcon Eye, there and Angola. massively in maritime security assets to tackle The memo reads in part: “The purpose of wouldn’t have been any reasons to contract “The Gulf of Guinea accounted for nearly the menace with any tangible result. At the this memorandum is to seek the consideration security of the nation’s waterway to a foreign half (43 per cent) of all reported piracy incidents height of piracy and criminality in Nigerian of the FEC for the extension of the contract security firm. in Q1 of 2021.Thirty-eight incidents of piracy waters in 2017, the federal government embraced for the lease of 6 no. units of fast intervention and armed robbery against ships were reported the Deep Blue project initiated by the Minister security vessels (FISV) on the same terms and Admission of Failure to the IMB Piracy Reporting Centre in the of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi. conditions as earlier approved by the FEC in Meanwhile, in a startling revelation last year, period of 2021, compared with 47 incidents Since then, the government has invested 2018 in favour of the following six no. service the Director General of The Nigerian Maritime in Q1 2020. hundreds of millions of dollars supervised by provider: Pearl HPW Limited, Thamson Energy Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), “The Q1 2021 figures are broken down as 33 the minister and the reward for the investment services Limited, Fairway Offshore Limited, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, expressed worry over the vessels boarded, two attempted attacks, two has been increased piracy and criminality. Aquashiled Oil & Marine Services Limited XPO activities of the Somali pirates on Nigerian vessels fired upon and one vessel hijacked. To this day, the $195 million maritime security Marine services Limited and Peace Marine and waters, while reiterating the determination to Violence against crews continues with 40 crew contract approved for the same purpose by Energy Limited. curb criminal attacks in the nation’s waters kidnapped, two each threatened and taken the government in 2017 is yet to be executed “Council is invited to recall that at its and the Gulf of Guinea. hostage and one killed.” by the same minister. EC(2018)40 meeting held on Wednesday, 5 He said the pirates often navigated Also, in January last year Nigeria was rated The federal government had in 2017 approved December 2018, it considered and granted through Nigeria’s maritime boundaries, and number one in pirates attack in the Gulf of a $195 million maritime security contract with approval for the renewal of the contract for the sometimes came through the land borders, Guinea by the International Maritime bureau an Israeli firm, HLS International Limited under lease of six (6) fast intervention security vessels adding that the recently-established, Maritime (IMB). the Integrated National Security and Waterways for a period of one year, at the reviewed daily Intelligence Unit, to help nip sea crimes in The IMB revealed a 40 per cent increase in Protection Infrastructure, also called the Deep rate of $10,500 per vessel-making a total sum the bud through the identification of early the number of kidnappings reported in the Blue Project. of $22.995, 000.00 on an annual basis which is warning signs, had revealed a relationship Gulf of Guinea in the first nine months of The contract was in line with efforts to curb equivalent to N7,013,475, 000.00, at the exchange between crimes in the Nigerian maritime 2020, compared with the same period in 2019. increasing criminal activities such as piracy, sea rate of $1.00 to N305.00, inclusive of all taxes.” domain and the Somali pirates. The report showed that the pirates armed robbery, kidnapping, oil theft, illegal bunkering, But stakeholders in the maritime industry are He said: “We discovered a correlation between with guns and knives had abducted bigger smuggling and illegal trafficking in drugs and querying the motive behind the latest develop- crimes in our waters and the activities of the groups of seafarers off the West African coast. persons within the Gulf of Guinea, especially ment when the same minister told the world Somali pirates. They have a means of navigating The IMB said there had been 132 attacks Nigeria. in February this year he has received some of from the coast of Somalia to Nigeria, through reported since the beginning of 2020, up Under the initiative, the government was the equipment for the Deep Blue Project and the waters of our West African neighbors. from 119 incidents in the same period of supposed to have commenced the deployment that 80 per cent of the equipment will arrive In some cases, they enter through the land the previous year. of security assets first week of January 2019 to Nigeria few weeks after. borders and commission boats to carry out It added: “Of the 85 seafarers kidnapped curb maritime criminality. Since then, several Stakeholders in the maritime sector are worried their activities.” from their vessels and held for ransom, 80 dates have been announced by Amaechi without that the hundreds of millions of Dollars spent He said Nigeria had developed an action were taken in the Gulf of Guinea, in 14 anything to show for the federal government’s by the minister in hiring fast moving vessels plan to monitor the progress of its National attacks reported off Nigeria, Benin, Gabon, investment. over the years is enough to acquire better and Maritime Security Strategy, saying, “Our goal is Equatorial Guinea, and Ghana. By the end of To the trepidation of all stakeholders and sophisticated brand new vessels for the country. to achieve a sustainable end to criminal attacks the third quarter (Q3), seafarers reported 134 in a move that negates the anti-corruption Also, they are worried that despite the in our territorial waters.” cases of assault, injury, and threats, including posture of the president Muhammadu Buhari multi-million dollars spent in hiring vessels, Jamoh said the Nigerian government placed 85 crewmembers being kidnapped, and 31 administration and waste of scare foreign insecurity in Nigeria’s waters is at all-time high. a high premium on the safety and security of held hostage onboard their ships. A total of exchange, Amaechi again last year wrote to shipping on its waters and the Gulf of Guinea. 112 vessels were boarded, and six were fired the federal government seeking a whopping Unhappy Security Agencies To confront the menace of maritime crimi- upon, while 12 reported attempted attacks.” $22.99 million to hire fast intervention vessels THISDAY learnt that top brass at the Nigerian nality head-on, he said: “Nigeria has made IMB warned that pirate gangs in the area are to check insecurity in Nigeria’s waters. Pundits Navy are very unhappy with the development huge investments in the establishment of a well organised and targeting all vessel types comprehensive maritime security infrastructure. over a wide range. The Integrated National Security and Waterways It added that the furthest attack from shore Protection Infrastructure also called the Deep also involved the most crew kidnapped from Nigeria has made huge investments in the establishment Blue Project, is designed to secure our waters, a single vessel in 2020. of a comprehensive maritime security infrastructure. The up to the Gulf of Guinea. “On 17 July 2020, eight pirates armed with “The project is nearing completion, with machine guns boarded a product tanker under- Integrated National Security and Waterways Protection more than 80 per cent of the assets, comprising way around 196 nautical miles southwest of Infrastructure also called the Deep Blue Project, is designed Special Mission Vessels, Fast Intervention Boats, Bayelsa, Nigeria. They held all 19 crewmembers Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, and Armoured hostage, stole the ship’s documents and valuable to secure our waters, up to the Gulf of Guinea Vehicles, already in the country.” THISDAY ˾ ͯͲ˜ͰͮͰͯ 25

    NDDC’s Ondo Transmission Station Project Reaches 85% Completion James Sowole in Akure government areas of Ondo 85 per cent of the job.” State, had been without electricity Akwa promised that the Work has reached 85 per cent supply for more than 12 years. NDDC would assist the contrac- completion for the 132/33kv The NDDC Chief Executive tor to tackle the challenges of transmission sub-station be- Officer said he was excited that sourcing foreign exchange for ing constructed by the Niger the Commission was construct- the procurement of some of the Delta Development Commission ing a power station in the equipment that needed to be (NDDC) in Okitipupa area of oil-producing area of Ondo imported, stating: “We will be a Ondo State. State, noting that both President bit practical to address the issue The transmission station on Muhammadu Buhari and the of getting foreign exchange for completion, would provide Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, the importation of some of the supply power to over 2,000 Senator Godswill Akpabio equipment. We will authorize the communities spread across were interested in seeing to Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, to five local government areas of the completion of the project. debit our dollar account, so that Ondo South Senatorial Districts He said: “What I have seen we don’t have issue of foreign of Ondo State. here is massive. I didn’t want exchange short falls. The Interim Administrator to stay in the office and send “This project is very important of the NDDC, Mr. Efiong directors to inspect the project. because it will serve five local Akwa, disclosed this during When the contractor presented government areas in the oil an inspection tour of the an update on the project to us, I production belt of Ondo state. project site in company of insisted on coming to see things When you provide light to a the Governor of Ondo State, for myself. From what is on people, you have provided Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, and ground here, this is a massive life. So we are committed to the Minister of State, Ministry electricity project and a lot of providing life to the people. of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator money have been sunk in here. In his remarks, Governor Omotayo Alasoadura, as well “We have gotten to a point Akeredolu praised the NDDC as the Chairman of the House of no return. For this project, and the Interim Administrator of Representatives Committee I can tell you that there is no for making efforts to release the on NDDC, Hon. Olubunmi retreat, no surrender. We have necessary funds that would Tunji-Ojo. to complete this project and put facilitate the completion of The five Ilaje, Eseodo, it to use as soon as possible. As the project. Okitipupa, Irele and Odigbo it is now, we have done about GPHA Commends NPA, INTELS Facilities at Onne Port Stories by Eromosele Abiodun He said there are other opera- The Port Manager, who said tors in the oil and gas sector, he has visited ports in Ghana, Officials of Ghana Ports and which include West African commended them for the visit, Harbors Authority (GPHA) have Ventures (WAV), INDORAMA, and wished them well. He assured commended the Nigerian Ports Dangote among others. them that they will get better Authority (NPA) and Intels Lo- He remarked that Intels insight when they arrive Intels gistics Services for the impressive contributes positively to the Terminal on facility tour. facilities at their terminals at the development of the maritime In his response, Afadzi, thanked Federal Ocean Terminal (FOT) activities in the country. NPA for the honour accorded and Federal Lighter Terminal He noted that they enter into them, adding that Nigeria is (FLT) in Onne . concession agreement for 25 years Ghana’s big brother and have The delegation, which was led with the company, which allows a lot they share in common. by Director of Port of Tekoradi, them to develop the facility, and “We are here because Nigeria Ghana, Captain Ebenezer Afadzi, operate same, though with options is our big brother. We need help gave the commendation during to review the agreement at the from Nigeria to grow our maritime a one-day visit, to Onne Port. end of 25 years. and shipping sector. And we are Addressing the delegation, Dantsoho said that Nigeria here to learn a lot from your port Onne Port Manager, Dr. Abubakar Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), and to see things for ourselves in Dantsoho, said Onne Port is big at Bonny constitutes another Onne Port”, Capt. Afadzi said. He and accommodates four major huge revenue earner for NPA added that their coming is to learn ‘Terminal Operators’, who are and Federal Government (FG). what has made Onne Port thick. He also concessionaires. “Onne Port is the most modern requested to get more clarifications The concessionaires, he said, port in Nigeria. Intels came in on the operations of service boats are: Intels Logistics Services, 1988, while other concessionaire and container vessels and how Brawal Oil Services, West African came in from the year 2006, “he they help NPA to generate more Container Terminal and ICTNL. added. revenue. NIMASA, Army Collaborate on Training for Journalists The Nigerian Maritime and the Armed Forces, es- not endanger the country.” Administration and Safety pecially the Nigerian Army, Jamoh restated the plan by Agency (NIMASA) and the Ni- which plays a leading role NIMASA to set up a media gerian Army have announced in the Integrated National academy for the training and a plan to cooperate on the Security and Waterways retraining of professionals that training of journalists and Protection Infrastructure (the report the maritime industry. other public communication Deep Blue Project), domiciled He said the Agency’s Public practitioners in the country’s at the Agency. Relations Unit would interface security sector. He said: “We have a very with NASPRI to come up This was the highpoint of cordial relationship with the with a robust curriculum a meeting in Lagos between Armed Forces. Both establish- and information sharing the management of NIMASA, ments are working towards method that would serve led by the Director General, the same goal of national NIMASA and the Army in Dr. Bashir Jamoh, and a team security and development. the implementation of their from the Nigerian Army The Nigerian Army is a stra- respective mandates. School of Public Relations and tegic partner in our search Yusuf, earlier in the meeting, Information (NASPRI), led by for maritime security; it plays commended the warm relation- the Acting Commandant, Col. a critical role in the Deep ship between the Nigerian Aliyu Yusuf, at the agency’s Blue Project. We are happy Army and NIMASA, saying headquarters. to work with you in the dis- he looks forward to more The Nigerian Army delega- semination of information partnership between the two tion said the courtesy call was on national security issues. establishments. He said NASPRI to explore areas for further We have a responsibility to had trained many maritime collaboration with NIMASA. manage security information journalists, members of the Jamoh stressed the cordial in ways that would engender Armed Forces, and others relationship between NIMASA confidence in the polity – and involved in security reporting. 26 FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 •THISDAY NEWS METRO WEEKLY MAGAZINE THISLIFE THIS ART WEEKEND ENTERTAINMENT

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi [email protected] WEEKEND 07010510430

Austin Adigwe: Passion to Change the World through Music 28 THISDAY ˾ ͯͲ˜ͰͮͰͯ COVER Austin Adigwe: Passion to Change the World through Music Austin Adigwe is not one to do things in half measures. As a manager with a new generation bank and part-time lecturer with the Lagos State Polytechnic, Isolo, his one true passion, however, is changing the world through music. The third child of the late Mr. and Mrs. Michael Adigwe, from Idumu-Osume Quarters of Ubulu-Uku, in Aniocha-South Local Government Area of Delta State, the award-winning musician started his musical career at a very tender age. Intentionally tailoring his music to bring hope and spread love, he has continuously appealed to youths to shun violence, noting that all the vices prevalent in Nigeria are consequences of sustained absence of love for one another. In this interview, Adigwe, who came into limelight with his debut album in November 2019, spoke on the journey so far, as well as other issues. Chiemelie Ezeobi reports

ow did you start your and sea, mountains and valleys, wet and dry churches or crusades? music career? seasons? The God that created us tall and short, Yes, I have been receiving invitations and Passion for music reso- fat and slim, black and white, male and female, performing in different gatherings of worship- nates in my childhood and etc? Is it not the same God that created different pers in church programmes, concerts and teenage memories, coloured languages from where we derive our identities, weddings. with membership of various which translate to culture? It is senseless that we No, I don’t charge to minister the gospel culturalH dance groups, church choir and college go to war because of our God-given diversity. of Christ to worshippers. However, some brass band. I began playing instruments like Are we not telling God by our actions that the churches do offer their token to help offset the the clarinet/tuba at age 14, drums at age 16 breath we take is a huge mistake on his part? logistics of bringing my team (band members) and the keyboard at 20. I hear all sort of solutions opined by supposed for ministrations. In 2013, the inspiration to transform thoughts experts in various endeavors of life. Like use to songs began to manifest significantly and technology, buy more weapons, hire more How did Nigerians welcome your music? I could communicate with songs. Then came police and army, without addressing the root The feedbacks from my listeners are over- the bigger challenge of how best to channel cause of the crisis. These are positions that whelming and a major source of inspiration the newfound energy. By 2016, I had started aggravate, rather than ameliorate. We need to to do more. using my situation and immediate environment talk, listen, persuade and enforce. Whoever to compose inspirational songs with perfect is aggrieved needs to be heard with an open What are you doing to make sure that characterisation in gospel music. Convinced mind for peace, love and harmony to return to your music gets to millions of people across that nothing was too much to give back to God our beloved country. There is a saying that the the globe? for life and his provisions, I created a sinking person whose home is peaceful is the one that My songs air on over 15 TV stations, more fund, managed by my wife, to support the sees and forgives. We must stop fighting God than 50 radio stations, on free download in initial take-off in the years ahead. in the name of fighting our diversity. Nobody more than 40 major gospel sites, on all digital So, when, in 2019, I decided to start recording, Adigwe chose how, where and when he/she was born stores, in 2,000 copies of complementary CDs, I had a pool of over 30 songs, each speaking to a nor his/her first language. If God distributed us in more than 500 Alaba mixtapes, on DJAN specific aspect of life with biblical reasonings to Silent Heroes Award is truly coveted and on the surface of the earth without our consent Lagos playlist for Radio and Street DJs, on inspire, support and encourage oneness. I had priceless to my high sense of motivation and and input, how naïve we are trying to alter the Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. to search online for music producers and God immensely integral to the giant strides I see works of God. I have fans that follow my music from Kenya, ordered my footsteps to my prolific producer in my music career today. It is the platform of I have released two songs in response to the Uganda, Ghana and other English-speaking Duktor Sett. That is my story. unsung heroes and recognises the contributions hate crisis in the world and Nigeria in particular. countries in Africa. of ordinary Nigerians who toil daily to make These songs appeal to our conscience to drop How do you combine music with lecturing life better for others. Unlike the other awards all forms of detestation and embrace love, for How many hits do you have to your credit and other occupations? we see on display that celebrate the mighty, the a happier and better world. They are titled and which one do you regard as your best? First is the undisputable grace of the Almighty connected, the rich and famous; Nigeria Silent “A Great God” and “Love in Crisis,” on free I have singles that are building up to the God in every of my endeavours. Secondly, with Heroes Awards targets good-spirited people download, just google Austin Adigwe or visit first album. These singles include “My Praise”, good time management and discipline; so much who are impacting lives positively with little the official download site for all Austin Adigwe’s “Chioma”, “Jesus Never Fails”, “Nonso”, “We can be achieved within a short time. You see, or no societal recognition nor connection to songs at allbaze.com. You can stream the videos Adore You”, “Love in Crisis”, “A Great God”, it is not how long but how effective you are in the powerful. on my YouTube channel, Augustine Adigwe, “You Alone Can Heal”, “In You Alone I Trust”, turning prospects to opportunities and then A Nigerian that was impacted by one of and be richly blessed by the ministrations. “A Call to Love” and “The Risen God”. to results. If you see time as a resource, you my songs, “Jesus Never Fails,” contacted the So, love is your only passport to salvation. I do not have any favorite, as they speak would optimise it but if you see time as a mere organisers of the Nigeria Silent Heroes Awards 1 Corinthians 13:1-3 says, “If I speak in the to different circumstances of life. My mood prompt for different activities, you would abuse with my nomination, so I was contacted and tongues of men or of angels, but do not have determines my preferred song at every given and misuse it. informed that someone nominated me based love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging time. “My Praise” inspires the culture of While no one can claim 100 per cent profi- on my song for the awards and the nomination cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can gratitude to God. “Chioma” is a multilin- ciency in time management, there are some skills would be confirmed if the song passes through fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and gual thanksgiving song. “Jesus Never Fails” that help one improve his/her optimisation scrutiny. A few weeks later, I was contacted if I have a faith that can move mountains, but restores hope and faith in God. “Nonso” is level. I could combine my jobs because of my that the entry was successful and that I was do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I another powerful praise song. “We Adore unwavering passion for them and the ability an awardee. So I return all the glory to God. possess to the poor and give over my body You” supports the act of total submission to to discover their interdependence and inter- to hardship that I may boast, but do not have God, while “Love in Crisis” speaks to the relatedness. This ensures that one job feeds What is your message to Nigeria during love, I gain nothing.” need to love one another. “A Great God” is off the others in such perfect harmony that is this period of trial with banditary, kidnap- a prayer for self and country Nigeria. As for mutually beneficial to the different goals and ping, killings and terrorism. Perhaps, you What is your message to Nigerian youths “You Alone Can Heal”, it is the perfect song bottom lines. would do some songs for Nigeria? who seem to have lost hope and taken to that supports every healing process, “In You We are on a journey that is exploding before all sorts of criminal activities? Alone I Trust” is an affirmation of faith. “A Call In so short a time, your music has made our eyes without the prescription of the real Tough times should make us better people. to Love” speaks to the essence of humanity, impact around the globe, what is the magic? solution in sight, even though we all know the Joseph was put in charge of the entire land of and “The Risen God” encapsulates Christ’s God is universal, no doubt about that. So, consequences of our generational disdain for Egypt because, in his most grievous trails, he did passion for our salvation at the cost of his life. when you commit your resources (time and one another along religious and ethnic divides. not resort to crime but remained steadfast with materials) to his service genuinely, he becomes Our problem as a country is multifaceted but all the right virtues that pleased God. Difficulty What of your educational qualifications, your ultimate promoter. My songs are mak- from the same root, which is complete absence is not and will never be a justification for any do you plan on going further? ing impact because they carry his grace, of genuine love for one another as instructed crime, as most victims of the these crimes are My highest level of education for now is an message, teachings, inspiration, and by all the holy books and teachings. You can also victims of the same failed system. M.Sc in Economics from University of Lagos, incentive to love as Christ commanded give these social vices different names such Yes, I must acknowledge that things are ex- Akoka. Yes, I am working towards my P.hD us. I am always conscious of my lyrics as corruption, banditry, kidnapping, killing tremely difficult for us, the youths, no support in Economics as well. to ensure that the messages are received and terrorism, they are all direct consequences system for creative minds, lack of care for the and interpreted as intended. Every song of sustained absence of love for one another. wellbeing of the youth, unending harassment, On the home front, does your family of mine has lyrics that depict the letters Let me take you to Proverbs 10:12, “Hatred etc. However, the solution to these problems is support your music career? and spirit of the Holy Bible to create congru- stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs.” not crime. Even in these difficult times, we can Yes, I am happily married and my entire ence between what God desires of us and the So, clearly, any generation that elects to hate apply our creative minds towards providing household supports my vision of musical contents of my music. instead of to love already knows the verdict of solutions where we find gaps to make legitimate evangelism. Other important factors are originality of their choices. We cannot claim to love God that income. my songs, simplicity, absence of conflict with we have never seen and yet hate one another What are your social media handles and established teachings of Christ and intensity (1 John 4:20). How do you see the future of gospel how can people support you? of promotion. You can clearly see the growing wrong and music in Nigeria? People can support by following me on misleading diagnosis of our problems as a The Nigerian gospel industry is growing Instagram, @austin.adigwe, You have won some awards and nomina- people, much of which we attribute to our astronomically because the message of Christ Twitter, @ausglo, Facebook, Austin Adigwe, tions, including the coveted Silent Heroes diversity (religion and ethnicity). Can we not is food for the soul and the path to salvation. and YouTube, Augustine Adigwe. You can Initiative Award,” which is not a tea party, see clearly that our God is a God of diversity? also have me minister at your church events how did it happen? The God that made the night and day? Land Do you charge when you perform for to bless lives. THISDAY ˾ ͯͲ˜ͰͮͰͯ 29 NEWS Sober Reflections as CCC Marks 40th Anniversary amidst National Uncertainties Stories by Mary Nnah

It was a mixed feeling of L-R: Rector, RECTEM, Dr. Stella Mofunanya; RECTEM Chairman Governing sober reflections and thanks- Council, Pastor Funso Odesola; Pastor Samuel Olaniyan and Assistant giving to God Almighty for His sustenance as members Pastor RCCG Region 1, Dele Jayeoba, at the event of the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC), Covenant Cathedral, Amuo-Odofin, ‘Shun Cultism, Hooliganism, Corruption’, Lagos, gathered recently to mark the 40th anniversary of the church amidst uncertain- RETECM Rector Charges Youths ties in the nation. Conscious of the fact that young people have been found Speaking during the oc- to be involved in and also used by unscrupulous elements casion the Parish’s Patron, in the society to commit various disastrous acts in the nation Most Senior Evangelist Soye especially recently, Rector, Redeemer’s College of Technology Oluremi Oniagba, Oniagba and Management (RECTEM), Dr. (Mrs.) Stella Mofunanya, who was quick to comment has appealed to young people to shun cultism, hooliganism, on state of the nation as regard corruption and other forms of social vices. insecurity, kidnapping and She made this appeal during the college’s third matricula- banditry being witnessed tion ceremony which took place, last Friday at the Redemption in the nation in recent times, Women Leader, Prophet Temitope Adeuti; Parish Patron, Most Senior Evangelist Soye Oluremi Oniagba and Camp, . averred that the problem with Chairman, Church Management Committee, Honorary Senior Evangelist Nosa Giwa-Osagie at the event While stressing that RECTEM has zero tolerance for cultism, Nigeria is the leaders and hooliganism, corruption and other forms of social menace, had nothing to do with the will get according to what he take on the state of the na- what we have achieved, the Mofunanya advised that, “It is integral that you continually ordinary man on the street. sow, what you sow is what tion, Chairman, Church shortcoming and the falloff. remember that the distance between today’s ceremony and “The problem is our leaders, you reap”. Management Committee, “We are going to remember your convocation seems far but in reality it is close. they are the ones dividing us He said, however, that Honorary Senior Evangelist what has transformed for the “It is very important that as champions, you conclude this for political purposes”, Oni- the role of every church is to Nosa Giwa-Osagie, said, “This past 40 years and it’s always journey in triumph and success. To achieve this, you need to be agba said noting that “what is preach peace, noting, “we do is not the Nigeria I know in good to have record of the regular in attendance at lectures, serious with your continuous happening in Nigeria is that not only preach peace here the 50s and 60s. past and future.” assessment, shun deviant behaviours and other vices and resist people who wanted power; but we also put it in action in “After the civil war, when Women Leader of the the temptation to commit examination malpractices and fraud”. those used to taking Nigerian everything we do. We run a I was growing up, I had the church, Prophetess Temitope money no longer have access totally detribalised church. We opportunity to move around Adeuti, said the anniversary to it; the people who said they have all tribes here and there the country with my uncle occasioned a special thanks- are going to take us and sav- is no discrimination amongst because he was a civil servant. giving to God for what He has Boma Akpore, New York- age us, they are doing worse us”, he noted. When we were in Abeokuta done for every parishioner. than the people they took over Giving a historic tale of we were treated as Yorubas, “We are celebrating because based Nigerian Actor Plans from, so what is happening development of the church when we moved to PH we we are hopeful that this is is like they say when two since its inception 40 years were treated as Rivers people, another beginning of greater elephant fight, it’s the grass ago and the achievements it when we were at Enugu, the and better things that would Big for Nollywood that suffers. has made so far, Oniagba said same thing, Kaduna the same happen in the life of every New York-based Nigerian model “The masses are suffering the journey has indeed been thing. parishioner. We are thanking turned actor, Boma Akpore, has big and being killed because of a glorious one even though “ But now, that kind of God for bringing us this far plans for the Nigerian movie industry, the deeds of our leaders. So it came with numerous chal- love has withered away and and for where He is taking as he recently revealed plans to return let the average man on the lenges. the spirit of greed and bad us, to His glory.” home soon to invest in Nollywood. street know that this is not “The movement has not leadership has taken over the Adeuti revealed further Akpore, who is so excited about a war between Yoruba and been all rosy from where we whole system.” that the church has a good coming back home to be part of the Igbo, or between Igbo and started to where we are today Speaking on the signifi- record of the women depart- country’s ever flourishing film industry, Hausa or between Hausa and but our strength has been the cance of the church’s 40th ment, noting that the impact ventured into acting after an injury cut Yoruba it is the leaders that are grace of the Most High that has anniversary, Giwa-Osagie, of women on the church has short his professional football career, manipulating us. I believe in accompanied us”, he noted. said, “After many years been tremendous right from just before signing to play against the Boma Akpore God’s own time, everybody Collaborating Oniagba’s we have to take a record of the onset. team. “I’m presently working on three films I plan to submit to film festivals in December and next year. These are stories that are very near and dear to my heart. Adegunwa Anticipates More Grammy as Rite Food Backs Nigeria Idol “ This is the next step for me, to start creating work and Mr. Seleem Adegunwa, showing my fans and audience how creative I can be. I’m Adegunwa said however very excited for what the future brings”, he noted recently. Managing Director of Rite that for the best to be discov- Foods Limited, Nigeria’s Akpore, a New York Film Academy alumni, also recently ered, young artists have to joined the cast of Hollywood’s first all-Black Egyptian Film leading food and beverage be given the necessary push. company, has predicted that ‘Protector of the Gods.’ “There must be a propel- Originally from Lagos, Nigeria, now residing in New York the country will win more ling platform which we Grammy Awards in the years City, having lived in 20 countries across three continents, Akpore believe the Nigerian Idol has built strong support for his crafts. to come because the country provides. For us at Rite Food is littered with great talents in Coming from modelling, Akpore represented Nigeria in Limited, we are committed to Mr. Imperial Universe contest in 2016, winning Best Body music , comedy and spoken the Nigerianess of positive words. and second runner-up overall. energy , talents in music, He steered away from modelling and went on to play semi- Speaking with content creative art and ideapreneur- drivers and journalists re- pro football in Europe, and turned to acting after an injury ship that will earn Nigeria hindered his professional football career, just before signing cently in Lagos, Adegunwa the international accolades”, explained that his company to play pro in Scotland. he said . Since then, he has found solace in the movie industry hav- is in support of the ongoing At the events, many of the sensational music talents ing begun his acting career with a big break on NBC’s crime L-R: Bigi Media Idol Judge, Obi Asika with Entertainment Editor of Ni- participants tried their talent thriller, ‘The Blacklist.’ He also featured in episode 616 of the show the Nigeria Idol be- in the first Bigi media Idol cause it will bring out the gerian Tribune Newspapers, Rotimi Ige, winner of the grand prize of critically acclaimed show. where the sum of N250,000 His modelling career has also taken him through pageantries best of many talents across N250,000.00; Bigi Media Idol Judge, DJ Sose and Brand Manager, Rite was given to the best singer, the country. Foods Limited, Boluwatife Adedugbe at the event with the likes of New York Fashion Week, Nike, Adidas, Dior, N150,000 was given to the Chase Bank, American Express amongst others. He added that the gesture second position and the third is also to express his com- creative industry generally. diately put the country on position got N100,009. Seven pany’s commitment to talent other participants went home discovery in music through According to him, the the global honour roll, is a recent Grammy by Nigeria validation of the many talents with the sum of N50,000 as the Nigeria idol and secondly consolation prizes. PFN Consoles Adeboye to express interest in the Burna Boy which imme- that abound across in Nigeria Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), has described as tragic the demise of Pastor Dare Adeboye, the son of Pastor Enoch Adeboye, of the Redeemed Christian Church of God The Lord’s Chosen Commiserates with Adeboye over Son’s Death (RCCG). In the PFN’s condolence message issued by its National The General Overseer of “We understand how dif- the fact that a good soldier “For if we believe that Jesus Publicity Secretary, Bishop Emmah Gospel Isong, the body The Lord’s Chosen Charis- ficult it is to bear the loss of a in the army of the Lord, of died and rose again, even lamented that the news of the death of the son of the Redeemed matic Revival Movement loved one but we want you which we are among the so them also which sleep in Church’s General Overseer, was shocking. Pastor Lazaus Muoka on to take consolation in the conscripted, is no longer Jesus will God bring with “Our heartfelt condolences to baba and mama Adeboye, behalf of the Lord’s Chosen fact that there is life after physically with us in him” (1 Thes. 4: 14)’. This and the entire members of the RCCG worldwide.May the ministry has expressed his death and God being with spreading the gospel of our should be enough for our Lord uphold them,” the fellowship prayed. most sincere sympathy to the you, the fortitude to bear Lord Jesus Christ, but we consolation.” The PFN further prayed that God would give the family G .O of RCCG Pastor Enoch the pain is assured” Muoka are consoled with the fact “May the joy of the and the church, the fortitude to bear the loss. A. Adeboye and the entire stated in a release made that we shall meet again Lord be your strength “The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria under the able members of the RCCG over available to THISDAY. to part no more.” and comfort all of you leadership of His Eminence, Bishop, Dr. Wale Oke,deeply the passing away of Pastor Pastor Muoka posited “In his exhortation to all during this difficult mourned Pastor Dare Adeboye’s departure at such a tender Dare Adeboye, a son and further that “all true be- believers, Apostle Paul as- time in Jesus name”, he age of 42,” he added. co-worker in God’s Vineyard. lievers felt the pain given serts to the Thessalonians, added. 30 THISDAY ˾ ͯͲ˜ͰͮͰͯ

MUSIC SHOWBIZ E-TRENDS …Your weekly entertainment delight NOLLYWOOD Appraising Lagos State Interventions in Entertainment Sector Vanessa Obioha looks at the various interventions of the Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in the entertainment space as he marks two years in office

Entertainment is one of the key pillars of the Nollywood, Lagos is also a hotspot for musicians. Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s A great number of the country’s famous musicians economic agenda T.H.E.M.E.S. During his either started their musical journey or are based election campaign two years ago, the governor in the state. pledged to improve the creative industry which No doubt, the music industry stands to gain it said contributes seven per cent to the GDP, from the state’s 3000 Metropolitan fibre optics while acknowledging that Lagos is the capital that will ensure internet and data availability in of Nollywood. the state, as music revenue in the past few years In a detailed document at the time, the present is generated from streaming and mobile services. administration listed some of its plans for the Since the beginning of the new millennium, sector which included collaboration with local technology is a great enabler of the music industry. and foreign experts and institutions to establish Apart from distribution, it enables content creation, world-class training institutions for all relevant talent scouting and management. Take, for instance, skills and expertise required to improve the creative singer D’banj’s CREAM platform that encouragesp arts industry; seek the support of the private people to sell creative content. sector to develop well-distributed purpose-built The subscription-based platform helps to scout entertainment spaces around Lagos for music, for talents who are then mentored to become artists. plays, cinematic viewing and events over the next The government can initiate similar incentives four years; and provide tax incentives, rebates for record labels or successful artists with good and waivers on filming permits and streamline business acumen. It should extend its grants to tax and approval processes. the music industry as innovation-driven music A consistent message of the administration is enterprises are proven to help attract investments that it is going to build an entertainment village in the state. for the creative industry. This village, it said, will Since it is already in partnership with Google have access to the needs of the trade so that it and Facebook to build Yaba Tech Hub, there can contribute to the state’s GDP. should be incentives for the music industry to tap Given the unprecedented COVID-19 pan- into such partnerships. It should also collaborate demic that derailed some of the projects of this with all key stakeholders that significantly help administration, it is necessary to look at the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu in developing effective regulatory and business various interventions of the government in the environments that allow music to thrive in the entertainment sector as the second anniversary Another collaboration of similar hue is the and support struggling filmmakers with grants city. There are numerous examples of how music of its tenure approaches. partnership with Del-York Academy, run by Linus made available by the government to get their helps cities grow. Therefore, the government So far, Sanwo-Olu has been able to fulfil his Idahosa. The Lagos State government sponsored film to a completion stage as well as distribution should not renege on its promise to build an promise to collaborate with local and foreign experts 1500 talents for online training with the academy to either cinemas or digital platforms. entertainment village in Lagos. This village may and institutions to establish world-class training where they will hone their skills in the art and “If we can support them, they can employ a become a cultural hub for the state and help institutions for all relevant skills and expertise business of filmmaking. The selected trainees are lot of people. It is one of the places where we can Lagos become a global music city in Africa. required to improve the creative arts industry. expected at the end of the day to make creative create employment for a lot of our citizens,” said As Sanwo-Olu has clearly noted, it is better to This year, it opened the Lagos Ebony Academy, projects that will add value to the film industry. Sanwo-Olu in a recent media briefing. build the future now. a partnership with EbonyLife, the film and media Recently, Sanwo-Olu set up a nine-member However, the administration has not clearly “You build an infrastructure so that people company of media mogul Mo Abudu. The academy committee to manage its film production empower- spelt out how it is helping the music industry coming behind will see what you have done for is to train film producers, editors and all other ment scheme. Headed by veteran actor Richard which also makes up the entertainment industry. them. If you fail to do so, they will build a more professionals involved in the filmmaking process. Mofe-Damijo, the committee is to help identify Its attention is focused on Nollywood. But like expensive model in the future.”

First Moments of Nigeria Baby Drama Will Connect with Couples Struggling Who Will be Saved Knockouts Stage with Conception, Says Graham-Douglas on Nigerian Idol this The Knockouts stage of the third Actress and art promoter Bikiya Weekend? season of The Voice Nigeria kicked Graham-Douglas believes that couples off last week with talents. battling with conception will easily The singer did not only launch the next connect with her character in the new stage of the music competition but also Africa Magic TV drama series ‘Baby dazzled with her looks which dominated Drama’. Graham-Douglas played Esosa conversations on social media platforms. Essien, a woman who has been trying Team Yemi Alade From the make-up to the costume, Yemi to conceive since being married for looked ravishing as she guided her team Tim Ayo as the only talents who didn’t seven years. She and her husband members on their vocal strength. make it. (Oscar Essien) have had their hopes The artists performed individually Tomorrow’s episode airing on Africa dashed after trying everything from Nigerian Idol Top 11. in front of the coaches and other team Magic channels on DStv and GOtv, will IVF to alternative medicine. After weeks of intense competition, the members with the hopes of getting a see Team Falz knock it out on The Voice “Trying for a child in marriage is top 11 contestants finally had their first vote from their coaches or a steal from Nigeria stage. Fans can also catch up on very difficult for the couple,” she said live performance last week. They were other coaches. For her team — Vanilla, episodes on Sunday on AIT, Wazobia in a brief chat. “I have had people selected from a pool of 3,000 hopefuls Loven, Ewaoluwa, Toeseen, Tim Ayo TV and Wazobia Max, and Views very close to me struggle with this, who auditioned for the singing reality and Kitay — only three advanced Channel as well as The Voice Nigeria and it takes a toll on them and their competition. to the Battles. Vanilla, also known YouTube channel. Beyond the wow relationships. I believe couples will Bikiya Graham-Douglas With the theme ‘African Legends’, as the powerhouse of the team, was moments on TV, First Bank Nigeria is connect with ‘Baby Drama’ and Esosa the contestants showed their vocal the first to clinch a spot in the Battles also creating exciting moments for fans as she is telling their story. They will Known for her roles in movies, plays, prowess on stage to get a vote from after performing Sia’s ‘Titanium’. She on their social media pages with First understand her desperation and will and TV shows such as ‘Battleground’ the audience who will now determine would later be joined by Kitay, the last Bank Moments. Fans are asked trivia also empathize with her. Hopefully, and ‘Shuga’, Graham-Douglas revealed their fates. From Akunna’s rendition of performer of the night. questions and if answered correctly our society can be more supportive of that the most interesting thing about her Angelique Kidjo’s ‘Wombo Lombo’ to Toeseen’s rendition of ‘What Now’ by are rewarded. For instance, for last families struggling with conception.” character ‘is that she is full of surprises Beyonce’s performance of ‘Agolo’ by Rihanna opened the show but didn’t save week’s episode, fans were asked the The romantic drama series centres and will do things you don’t see her Kidjo too. her from going to the Danger Zone, a song Vanilla performed. The bank said on the lives of five women - Iye, Kese, doing. She is also a very compassionate This week’s episode will reveal who place where artists with low-performance it is committed to investing in music Amara, Esosa and Oni - from different woman, not a pushover. I can relate to has been saved or not from the show. rate are sent before finally knowing their talents in the country and The Voice walks of life, as they deal with the her qualities.” The voting lines closed on Wednesday fates. However, she would later be saved Nigeria is one of its ways it is fulfilling reality of how a baby or lack of one ‘Baby Drama’ airs every Wednesday night. Fans can relive the live performances by Yemi, leaving Loven, Ewaoluwa and that pledge. will affect their futures forever. night on Africa Magic Showcase. on DStv Channel 198 and GOtv Channel 29. THISDAY ˾ ͯͲ˜ͰͮͰͯ ͱͯ  Miss Abia Beauty Pageant Receives Star Prize from Organisers Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo the beauty pageant was in con- would be allowed to hold. sonance with the mandate of He said the Miss Abia 2021 When Gee Concepts Mod- the ministry to build, develop pageant was free and fair, elling Company successfully and empower the Abia youth. noting that the eligibility organised the Miss Abia Beauty “So, we can’t bring out Abia criterion, which stipulated Pageant 2021 on April 11, not a youths to what won’t benefit that contestants must have few regarded it as one of those them. The company registered lived in Abia for at least two shows that glitter and fade. with the Ministry of Youth De- years, irrespective of where But the government of Abia velopment, we brought state she hails from, was strictly State, which authorised and col- government officials to identify applied. laborated with the company to with the (pageant). The modelling company stage the pageant in Umuahia “Government was fully boss said the car presented looked beyond the glitz. involved because we saw to Miss Abia 2021 was fully The government said that it that what he(Gees Concept insured and with a clause recognised beauty pageants as MD) was doing was real. What that the car won’t be moved a form of youth empowerment the company did is a kind of out of Abia State until after given the prizes that come with empowerment, just like the a year. such shows. winner was given a car, there He further stated that the The star prize of the pageant, was consolation prices,” he branding on the car would Permanent Secretary, Minstry of Youths and Sports Development, Mr Friday Ikpeoha(in white); Miss Abia 2021, a car, was last Friday presented added. Chikaodi Agidi (center); and CEO, GEES Concept Modeling company, Mr. Felix Onuiri, handing over the car to remain for a year after which to the winner of Miss Abia Ikpeoha, who commended Miss Abia “the car totally becomes the 2021, Chikaodi Agidi, a stu- the company for sincerity in property of the model”. dent of Abia State University redeeming the prizes to the Managing Director of Gees ties of fake modelling compa- up a taskforce that would moni- In turn, Abia beauty queen, Uturu(ABSU). pageant winners, pledged that Concept Modelling Company, nies that had in the past come tor the modelling companies to Miss Chikaodi Agidi, said she Handing over the car keys to “the ministry and Abia State Mr. Felix Onuiri, noted that it up with fraudulent pageants checkmate the fraudulent ones. would devote the period of her Miss Abia 2021, the Permanent government will continue to was a difficult task convincing had made the girls to lose faith He advocated that whoever reign to visit secondary schools Secretary, Ministry of Youth partner the company in doing the girls that the pageant was in participating in pageants. intends to organise a pageant and educate students on how and Sports Development, Chief more programmes that will for real. Onuiri therefore called on should be made to bring out to resist sexual harassment and Friday Ikpeoha, explained that benefit the youth and the state”. According to him, the activi- Abia State government to set the prizes first before the show other forms of abuse.

Schneider Electric Unveils Cost-efficient, Ultra-smart Features on APC UPS

Stories by Chiamaka with lightning or utility prob- television, security camera, and critical mission equipment like which both the Line Interactive Ozulumba lems, can travel along utility home automation systems. medical equipment, servers, Smart UPS and Online UPS and data lines damaging elec- Unlike the Back-UPS, the and storage devices. “This come with, and the Smart Determined to ensure that tronic devices and destroying Line Interactive APC Easy UPS time around, we are starting Slots that allow for network power is provided at constant, valuable data. It can also and Smart UPS is a business from the entry-level. We are management card to be used acceptable voltage, current, and degrade the performance of power UPS. It is designed for increasing the capacity, giving on the USP, the UPS attends to frequency, APC by Schneider electronics and shorten their critical application such as serv- more power and voltage range, the specific individual needs Electric has added new features lifespan. ers, Automated Teller Machine adding features for customers of a customer at every point to three of its existing Uninter- But with APC Back-UPS, (ATM) --- company’s ATM. to interact with the UPS, and in time. rupted Power Supply (UPS), to Line Interactive UPS, and In other words, it is for criti- helping them to be able to get On the lifespan of the UPS, Mr. Oluwaseun Oloyede, Channel enrich customers’ experience. Sales Manager - APC by Schneider On-Line UPS, electronics, and cal business devices. It comes value for their money. Oloyede said that it is designed Interrupted power supply is Electric , West Africa devices are protected. in series, which include Easy “Our UPS comes with two to last for a minimum of six a common problem in Nigeria. According to the Schneider UPS SMV, Smart UPS SMC, years warranty standard, but to eight years, adding that Also, common are power surge, to several minutes; and spikes Electric Channels Sales Man- SMT, and SMX. this time around, they get value depending on the usage, the which is a temporary increase which is a dramatic increase in ager, Oluwaseun Oloyede, the Similarly, APC Easy UPS much more for money, more battery is supposed to last for in voltage on a power line, usu- voltage lasting less than three APC Back-UPS is applicable SRV and Smart UPS SRT/ power at a cheaper price,” close to three to five years. ally 10 per cent to 35 per cent nanoseconds. for a home environment, espe- SRTG Online series are Oloyede said. However, if it runs down in two above normal voltage and can Surges, short-term increases cially for basic appliances like designed for a harsh power He further explained that years, the company will give last between a few milliseconds in voltage levels associated personal computer, projector, environment, especially on a with the Switch Outlet Group, the customer a replacement. Coronation Asset Management Releases its Report on Mutual Fund

Coronation Asset Manage- what happens when an investor sons between funds that exist in industry requires several more full-fledged investmentnon-discretionary), advisory ment has released its report on seeks comparative information developed markets, compari- years of growth to reach the services across various asset services as well as fund admin- ‘Comparing Mutual Funds – on Mutual Funds, and takes the sons that can be found on the Naira 12.3 trillion total size classes to the entire spectrum istration and trustee services Apples and Oranges’. example of Naira-denominated Morningstar and Financial of Nigeria’s Pension Funds”. of investors: major institutions, offered through its subsidiary, This new report addresses Fixed Income funds. The results Times websites. Harmonisation of its reporting smaller niche institutions & Coronation Trustees Limited. developments in Nigeria’s fast- are surprising. “In our view, Nigeria’s may be a difficult task, mak- corporates, public sector family In recognition of its product growing Mutual Fund industry The data reported by these diverse measures stand in ing the effort now will lead offices, cooperatives and high innovation and sound corpo- where the total assets under funds is very diverse, with dif- the way of the development to Mutual Funds becoming a net-worth individuals. rate governance practices, Cor- management grew by 50 per ferent accounting methods used of the industry” says Guy significant force in Nigeria’s The firm’s services include onation Asset Management was cent to Naira 1.57 trillion last to arrive at very different unit Czartoryski, Head of Corona- financial infrastructure. fund solutions (money market awarded the Fastest Growing year. In the report, the Corona- price performance data. tion Research. “Although it Coronation Research is a fund, fixed income fund and Fund Management Company tion Research team, headed by This means that investors is growing rapidly, we believe division of Coronation Asset balanced fund), portfolio man- in Nigeria at the 2020 Global Guy Czartoryski, examined lack the kind of easy compari- that Nigeria’s Mutual Fund Management which offers agement (discretionary and Banking & Finance Awards. The Africa Soft Power Series to Hold Sessions on Africa’s Creative Industries The 2021 Africa Soft Power On Tuesday Siba Mtongana, and Wikimedia Foundation’s creativity. CEO Yinka Folawiyo Group Soft power series is doing an Series officially launched last Culinary phenomenon, Multi- Khanyi Mpumlwana will join On Thursday, the remark- and influencers from ESPN excellent job curating conver- week, with speakers includ- award-winning celebrity a separate panel on presenting able Nontando Mposo, and the BBC, and SuperS- sations about cultural influence ing Ambassador Rama Yade chef, Author & Founder, The positive African narratives, Editor-In-Chief, GLAMOUR, ports, former NFL and NBA in Africa.” (Director, Atlantic Council’s Siba Co.; Marc Kwesi Farell, moderated by Rachel Hislop; Africa’s leading women players will take the centre Susan Chapman-Hughes, Africa Center and Former Founder & CEO, Ten To One Editor-in-Chief, Okayplayer magazine and Leyla Hus- stage on sports. Fmr, EVP/GM, Global Digital French Minister of State for Hu- Rum & previously youngest and OkayAfrica. sein OBE, Social Activist and On Saturday, the focus will Capabilities, AMEX added man Rights), Mona Eltahawy VP at Starbucks and others on On Wednesday, Susan Co-founder, Safe Spaces for be on the music industry with “building connections be- (Award-winning Journalist, ‘Stirring The Pot: The Globali- Chapman-Hughes (Ex EVP, Black Women will feature in a snazzy session on ‘Black is tween Africa and the global Author, and Commentator sation of African Cuisine And AMEX), Tenu Awoonor of sessions on the business of King: Of Culture & Rhythm’. black community are criti- &International Lecturer), The Stories Within The Fla- Blu Penguin, and thought beauty. Moky Makura, Executive cal for the diaspora to be on and more. This week, the vours’, while Thebe Ikalafeng, leaders from PayPal, MTN, On Friday, Victor Williams, Director, Africa No Filter said: the cutting edge of digital series continues with nind award-winning Founder & FSDH Holdings, Lori and CEO, NBA Africa; Goabaone “We need to have these im- transformation and will phenomenal sessions taking Group CEO, Brand Leadership Nairametrics will speak on Taylor, CEO, Botswana portant conversations about ensure competitiveness and place between Tuesday, May Group, Moky Makura, Execu- the intersections between Football Association; Tunde the things that underpin the connection for generations 11 to Saturday, May 25. tive Director, Africa No Filter finance, technology and Folawiyo, Sports Investor & things that matter. The Africa to come.” 32 THISDAY ˾ ͯͲ˜ͰͮͰͯ

ART WEEKEND…For pure art enthusiasts Shadare at 50: Salute to a Jazz Custodian New Horror Series ‘The Mystic The CEO of Inspiro Productions and Convener, Lagos International Jazz Festival, River’ Debuts on Netflix Ayoola Shadare marks his golden years today with a virtual edition of the festival Yinka Olatunbosun is traditional, most of the issues raised and blissful moments of reminiscences. Yinka Olatunbosun reports in the series have contemporary rel- evance. The Canadian-based producer The 26-episode horror series titled has consistently positioned himself e is a cock- ‘The Mystic River’ hits Netflix today. as a socially committed film maker tail of jazz Shot in Ijebu Ode, the series tells a whose cinematography is in itself a gut-wrenching story of a young visual catalyst for societal change. The and Jesus. couple who newly relocated to remote Ayoola story in this edge-of-the-seat horror is village. Unknown to them, the village a metaphor on the Nigerian state and Shadare has an abominable cultural practice how its under-development shares is an un- of sacrificing pregnant women to the the semblance of a people making apologetic gods for prosperity. The intrigue of barbarism a way of life. ‘The Mystic lover of intuition, discovery and helplessness River’ is also a visual commentary constitute the conflict of this dramatic jazz music, having been weaned on the poor state of Nigeria’s public adventure on screen. health sector. Hon a rich variety of jazz music from At the press screening of the series, his father’s collection. With about “There are some things we don’t held last weekend at Terra Kulture, like in our country today and we can 30 years in the sphere of media and Victoria Island, Lagos, the producer, stand up and do something about entertainment marketing, he bears Roger Ofime described the series as it just like the doctor stood up to a magic touch to both indoor and a story of good and evil. fight tradition. We don’t have to “I want to be able to tell African outdoor events. ‘No one does the leave everything to the government. stories. I want to be able to tell I believe that standing up, saying sound better than Inspiro,’ says his stories that have some impact, that friend and associate, Nseobong Okon- something or making a change will will provoke people to think, to do go a long way,’’ he said. Starring Ekong with whom the idea of LIJF something, to change something. leading actors such as Jide Kosoko, was conceived. Even at that, he keeps That’s the niche I’m trying to carve Dele Odule, Joke Muyiwa, each his faith in God at a high voltage. for myself,’’ he said. episode is wrapped in suspense. This is why his 50-year journey so far Although the setting of the drama had been exciting, though eventful. “I know that my best is still yet to come so we will do more. Like I said, we are not retiring. The idea for LIJF was brought up in 2005 and it has always been traditionally held in April which is Jazz Appreciation Ayoola Shadare month climaxing international Jazz quite smoothly,’’ Shadare said, whilst he said. day which is April 30. We couldn’t reflecting on the challenges of the 2021 In his view, the jazz scene in Nigeria organize it in 2020; it was meant to LIJF festival. “We had booked venues has developed rapidly in the last two happen. Cape Town was chosen as and studios, scheduled time for the decades although, there is still room jazz capital for 2020 but the pandemic acts to perform. Except for hitches for improvement. Shadare also thinks had them cancel it but we don’t want with the timing and finance, things that concerts will not be the same. to allow another year to go by without have been so far so good. And I want “I think what we will have will be holding ours,’’ he said. to point out that even the support a combination both hybrid and live Over the years, Shadare had for the LIJF has been good. We are for obvious reasons. That is the new replicated the LIJF experience in backed by a committee of friends who norm,’’ he added. other parts of Nigeria pioneering support us and make this happen The LIJF physical stages were often jazz concerts including the Bayelsa by their contributions in one way or named after music legends. And if he International Jazz Festival. With another to allow this virtual edition to was to bring any artists to the stage, Naijazz, he hoped to promote the happen. I am also using this medium he has at least three favourites namely Nigerian brand of jazz music and to thank Shaddie at 50 Committee of Dr. Victor Olaiya—the ‘evil’ genius attract even popular music artists to Friends who we requested that they of highlife, Bob Marley and Hugh the jazz stage. show support for the virtual edition Masekela. Due to the global experience that of the festival.” Right from his childhood, he has the festival personifies, Shadare has Apart from jazz music, Shadare is been an optimist. He is always will- already been thinking of how to reach also very passionate about Nigeria ing to take chances and risks while global audience long before the pan- and her untapped resources in the maintaining a good attitude despite demic struck. But the continuous ban creative industry. At 50, the kind of any setback. When asked what he on large gatherings had propelled Nigeria that he desires is one where the would miss about childhood, he that plan into action with a 2-day citizens can reach their full potential. simply answered, ‘The simplicity pre-recorded jazz festival that kicks “Nigeria is always on my mind. of things.’ off today and ends tomorrow, May 15. The older I get, the more I worry “Modern life is so complex now “Virtual show is what we had even about Nigeria meeting its potential. and energy sapping but life is to be been planning to do long before the I dream for a Nigeria that works. much simpler, easier if there is more pandemic. But the pandemic moved One that cares for its citizens, har- co-operation. But right now, it seems a lot of people online. We are also nesses the potentials- both natural like everything is competition and adapting to that. That does not mean and human resources and realise its daggers drawn but life goes on.’’ Inaugural National Arts in Health that in years to come, it won’t still full potential. I want to see a Nigeria Shadare remains charming at 50 and happen as a live event. It will happen where the citizens fear God and oper- yes, still very single. He revealed the Conference Holds in Lagos as a hybrid event which gives it more ate justice and equity. The creative secret behind being happily single. opportunities and possibilities,’’ he and cultural industries and all the “If you are not happy being single Yinka Olatunbosun being,’’ the convener said. Designed said. allied industries are big businesses and you go into marriage looking as a bi-annual event, this edition will The headliners this year include are abroad and things are beginning for happiness, then it is going to be be a hybrid experience with online The Afro-indie band Afrosonics, Ro- to open up. There are royalties. One problematic. I am happily single. I The maiden edition of the National and on-site participants. forofo jazz (from Paris) and Afrojazz of the biggest challenges in our en- am fulfilled. But I look forward to Arts in Health Conference is set to The keynote address for the confer- band, Mike Aremu (UK), Nthabiseng tertainment industry is that there is falling in love with someone, getting hold in Lagos from May 24 till May ence will be delivered by the Lagos Motaung, Phebean, Bright Gain, Tosin no structure. There is copyright issue, married and sharing my life. I believe 30. Convened by Kunle Adewale, the State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Alao, New Revelations, Ekundayo piracy. We don’t know the amount of in traditional family values but I think founder of Arts in Medicine Projects Akin Abayomi on May 26. The event Dbass, DJ Jimbo, Kwitee, Adeh, and billions if not trillions of naira that is you need to be happy before going in Nigeria, the conference will be held will kick-off with opening remarks more. No fewer than 20 acts slated to being lost. Government should try and into the marriage, have a purpose, in partnership with health and art by the United State Consul-General, perform and out of these are four DJs. understand how the industry works drive, know the reason why you are institutions as well as faith-based Claire Pierangelo with a goodwill mes- “This year, the pre-recordings went put in policies and invest in same,’’ doing what you are doing.’’ organizations. sage from the Minister of Health, Dr. Created to strengthen institutional Osagie Ehanire. ties and bridge the gap between the The conference is organized in Fellowships for Writers, Poets Kicks off this May arts and health sector, the conference partnership with Lagos State will feature 21 events including paper Ministry of Health, Sickle Cell presentations, talk sessions, master Foundation Nigeria, Centre for Yinka Olatunbosun fellowship which begins on May Efe Paul Azino and Sadiq Dzukogi. classes, short film screenings, com- 18 is created to invoke the power of The Creative Director for Creative Contemporary Arts, Lagos, US munity project presentations, art Mission Nigeria, RCCG Freedom storytelling to shift perceptions and Africa, Efe Paul Azino observed: exhibitions and the commissioning Bada Murya, a six-month digital preach accountability. A total of 15 “There is a strong tradition of liter- Court, Federal Neuro-Psychiatric fellowship for writers and poets of the first Arts and Health innovation Hospital, African Artists’ Founda- fellows had been selected from 438 ary, cultural and artistic production hub in Africa. from the Northern region is set to entries. The class will be facilitated by from the North and we are happy to tion, Gabi William Alzheimer’s connect Northern conversations to “It is going to be a gathering of Foundation, Asido Foundation, the award-winning writer and journal- contribute to it,’’ he said. The partici- students, professionals, cultural or- a global audience in a way that chal- ist, Abubakar Adamu Ibrahim. Other pants will produce an anthology and Suicide Research and Prevention lenges stereotypes and empowers a ganizations, healthcare institutions, Initiative (SUPRIN), Association of facilitators include Wana Udobang, be given a special showcase at the community members and stakehold- new generation of storytellers. The Aisha Osori, Dike Chukwumerije, Lagos International Poetry Festival. Public Health Physicians of Nigeria ers in the health and community well- amongst others. THISDAY ˾ ͯͲ˜ͰͮͰͯ 33

METRO …Your city life in print Reward for Loyalty Emplacing value on the spirit of giving back, the United Bank for Africa Plc has continuously reiterated its commitment to its numerous loyal partners- the customers. Recently, the Pan African financial institution rewarded 10 of its loyal custom- ers with a total sum of N10 million in the quarterly draws of the ongoing savings promo, Chiemelie Ezeobi reports

ymbiotic relationships are often key in sustaining commitment between two or more people. For the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, its symbiotic relationship with its customers is sacrosanct. SInfact, one of their key derivatives is passion for overall development and success of its customers. This they have constantly shown over the years through several economic empowerment programmes, essentially giving back to the customers who have entrusted their money to the bank. By placing value on their customers, the bank has shown its commitment to its partners, thereby helping them attain their goals and dreams, particularly at a difficult and trying economic time as this. Putting action to words, the Pan African financial institution recently rewarded 10 of its loyal customers with a total sum of N10million in the quarterly draws of the ongoing UBA Savings Promo.

Reward for Loyalty This promo, which is held every quarter, is intended to appreciate loyal customers of the bank, who have stayed with the bank over the years, and offers fresh op- portunities for potential and intending customers to join the growing number of UBA millionaires who have in the past benefitted from several Promo. Group Managing Director UBA, Kennedy Uzoka This unique promo intends to appreciate loyal customers of the bank, who have time opportunity. You never can tell, the next big millionaire “Congratulations to all the winners, I stayed with the bank over the years, and could be you,” Aneke said. am glad to be a part of this; UBA is always will also offer fresh opportunities for po- 2021 Promo transparent in their promos and we can tential and intending customers to join Prior to the 2021 promo, UBA’s Head, Draw fully attest to this. It is important that the growing number of UBA millionaires Personal Banking, Ogechi Altraide, said This year, the virtual and transparent the bank is also actively encouraging the who have in the past benefitted from the that without a doubt, UBA’s passion for electronic draw which was held last week savings culture. Again, I say congratula- ongoing Promo. the growth and overall success of its cus- Friday, was transmitted live via zoom and tions,” she said. tomers cannot be overemphasised, adding the Facebook platform in strict compliance Requisite for Qualification that this has consistently been proven in with social distancing rules as directed by Current Winners To qualify for the promo, new and exist- numerous ways. She explained that the the Federal and Lagos State governments. The winners who cut across all the zones ing customers of the bank are expected to bank has consistently invested in cutting UBA’s Head Personal Banking, Osita Ede, of the country are Emeka Onyemauche; make a one-time deposit of at least N30,000 edge technology to improve its service who addressed participants just before Ezeigbokwe Oluebube Purity; Omoniyi before each draw date. Savings account delivery and its overall aim of delighting the draws, said there is no better time A Jaiyeola; Olawale Omotayo Idowu; holders eligible for this draw include customers. to give back and delight customers than Zaharadeen Yandaki Umar; Aliyu Yaro Target, Bumper, Next Gen, Savings, Teens She said, “With customer-centric promos this challenging economic period where Bakari; Samuel Enan Esua; Joseph Eze; & Kiddies. like the UBA Savings Promo, we have cre- people need all the support, they can get Deborah Folusho Adebayo and Lucia Apart from the savings promo which ated an ever increasing list of millionaires to make life more meaningful. Chinyere Adim. is held every three months, the bank also who continue to join the UBA customer He said, “As a bank, UBA has been re- When contacted via their mobile phone, has the UBA Bumper Promo which is held millionaire club. For this edition of the warding customers, we have been doing the winners expressed their gratitude to monthly, where the first three winning promo, we decided to pick the month of this for several years now; from the Wise the bank as they said the winnings will customers are rewarded with N2million, May, which is the month that workers Savers Promo, Bumper Draws, and now go a long way in meeting their pressing rent for a year at N1.2m and N500,000; are celebrated across the world for their this. We have been doing this to touch lives needs especially in these trying times. with 20 others winning N100,000 each as efforts at contributing to the growth of and to show appreciation to our custom- One of the winners, Samuel Enan Esan, consolation prices. the economy. We know that this promo ers to tell them we are grateful for their who was delighted at the news that he will put lasting smiles on the faces of our business. This is also an opportunity to just won N10million was full of praises. Past Winners customers and will also assure them that reward them for their loyalty to the bank.” “Thank you UBA,” he stated. Some past winners who cut across all UBA truly values them’” Altraide said. Ede, who stressed that the promo is a way Aliyu Yaro Bakari, who was extremely regions of the country and have previously UBA’s Head, SME Banking, Sampson of encouraging savings in a bid towards excited at the news, said, “Oh I am very benefitted from the promo include; Nnadu- Aneke, spoke of UBA’s continuous commit- promoting financial inclusion, as statistics happy, UBA is the best, you are the best, mije, Ebube Dawn; Onwochei Christiana ment to give back to its customers especially show that a lot of Nigerians are still largely thank you very much,” he remarked when Okwukwe; Eze Mathias Nnaji; Christian during these challenging economic periods, under-banked, added he learnt he was also one of the beneficiaries N Orie; Uka, Okwudiri; Okata Stephen where people need all the support they can “our key objective is to encourage our of N1million. Uche; Okafor Onyinye Esther; Nwanekezi get to make life more meaningful. customers to save regularly. We are here United Bank for Africa Plc is a leading Chimezie Jude; Ayomide V Yahaya and “With this in mind we decided to priori- to support them and encourage them to Pan-African financial institution, offer- Olanegan, Oyetunde Keji. tise them in as we always do at UBA, by save and ultimately grow as well, because ing banking services to more than twenty Others are Emmanuel Onu Chidozie; giving them plenty to cheer about and that we are aware that they are invaluable to million customers, across 1,000 business Mohammed Fatima; Aminu, Mustapha; is the reason for the Promo. I have been all that we do”. offices and customer touch points, in 20 James Nanre; Pahinti Albert; Emmanuel privileged to visit some of the customers A representative of the National Regu- African countries. With presence in New O Adeniji; Jaki Movihinze Mercy; Saminu who won in January, and we were more latory Commission, Peace Ibadie, who York, London and Paris, UBA is connect- Muritala Mohammed; Ezeh Raphael Ub- than fulfilled to see happiness and gratitude witnessed the draws, congratulated the ing people and businesses across Africa alla; Uchenna Iheji. Already the winners on the faces of the lucky ones when their 10 winners and commended the bank for through retail, commercial and corporate have claimed their cash prizes and are cash prizes were presented to them. That its efforts at rewarding loyal customers banking, innovative cross-border payments currently spreading the news so others feeling is special. So I enjoin those who especially in the tough economic and and remittances, trade finance and ancillary can take advantage of this once in a life are yet to join the winning team, to do so. business environment. banking services. 34 THISDAY ˾ ͯͲ˜ͰͮͰͯ

POLSCOPE áÓÞÒÎÎãÎÓàáÜÓ ÏÎÎã˛ÙÎÓàáÜÓ̶ÞÒÓÝÎËãÖÓàÏ˛ÍÙט͸΀͸ͽͻ͸;΁ͻͽ; Arms, Arms Everywhere, But Canticles…. More Women for Lawmaking? think the national lawmakers None to Protect us deserve a special commenda- tion for always rising to the o much has been said occasion of public expectation. about the insecurity in Nigeria. Everybody, IReally? These same lawmakers in including those in the the 9th Assembly?. So, what have hitherto strong-walled they done to deserve this special Aso Rock Villa, are commendation? all now on the edge. As they say, if fire I am surprised you are asking can burn the tortoise with the iron this. You mean you didn’t hear of coat,S how much more the hen with the great resolution they recently a feathery gown. These dare devil passed concerning the need to have criminals, be they bandits, kidnappers, more women in the National As- armed robbers, or terrorists, would sembly? be jelly-fished fellows without the arms they wield. Naaaaa, it was not a resolution. It Put differently, if we are able to was just a Bill presented by the Deputy control the influx of arms, more than Chief Whip of the House of Repre- half of the problem would have been sentatives, Hon Nkeiruka Onyejocha, solved. Arms and ammunition are the and 85 other lawmakers; the motion oxygen of violence and.; war. merely passed through the second So, the question is : how is it that reading. It has the third reading to these arms—light or sophisticated, contend with before it becomes a law, Femi Gbajabiamila find their ways into Nigeria without after a concurrence by the senate. But stress or hitch? I can tell you that the motion appears the face of the dwindling economy? It is easy to talk about porous bor- popular among the lawmakers. I think Do you know that the lawmakers ders. It is even easier to talk about the sponsors f the motion did a lot presently consume over 37 % of the illegal routes. But hey, where are of lobbying before the presentation. national budget to the detriment the immigration personnel that are Ogbeni of many other critical sectors? And supposed to man the borders? How So, by your own affirmation, it is you are supporting the creation of come they allow, knowingly or out a motion that enjoys great support. more senatorial districts and federal of negligence, these caché of arms So it is to be expected that going constituencies across the country? Are into the country, whilst yet claiming through the third reading won’t you alright? to be on duty? be such a herculean task. That is It beggars belief to claim that these why I think the lawmakers must Look, I am very alright. All we are avalanche of arms being used to wreak be commended for thinking ahead. asking is that the Beijing Declara- havoc in the country are either all local They have argued that given tion should be respected. How do weapons or all smuggled in through the huge population of women you explain that out of 109 sena- illegal routes. in Nigeria (47 percent ) the 4.4% tors, only eight are women, and that Is it therefore safe to believe that representation at the National As- out of 360 House of Reps members, these immigration personnel are sembly is dismal and unacceptable. only 13 are women, whereas they conniving with these terror agents They bemoan the fact that out of even vote more in number during to flood the nation with arms? 109 senators, only eight are women. elections? Not long ago, there was a story And that out of 360 House of Reps about bandits using camels to ferry members, only 13 are women. So, if they have more voting popula- arms into the country, as they strap Therefore, the representation tion at elections, let them use that sup- arms on the body of these camels, level of women at the National port base to elect their fellow women. covering the arms up with other Assembly should be deliberately They don’t have to have separate and harmless luggage. But despite this shored up by altering some sec- exclusive seat either in the senate or intelligence report, we have never tions of the 1999 constitution, as House of Reps. Let them go out there been told of any arrest of arms-laden amended, by creating additional and contest and strive to be elected. camels in the country. senatorial districts in every state You mean in the face of the daunt- In May 2017, the Nigerian Customs of the federation, plus the FCT, ing problems facing the country, the intercepted a 20-feet container at the just as two additional federal concern of some chauvinists is how to Lagos port, loaded with 440 arms constituencies should be created swell the rank of the parliament with and ammunition of different sizes in each of the state plus the FCT, more gele-tying women? and caliber. across the country and that both Four months later, in September of IG of Police, Usman Baba the extra senatorial seat and two Are you implying that it is Okay the same year, another 1,100 pump additional seats (per state and the for the men to keep lording over sophisticated than the ones of our the police.. women in the National Assembly? action guns concealed in container policemen. Again, who owns the bullets? FCT) at the House of Reps, be oc- from Turkey was intercepted at Mile cupied exclusively by women. That Do you realise the roles they play Even when there is a presidential Where were they taking them to? in National development? Do you 2, Lagos. That particular consignment directive criminalizing bearing it by And for what purpose? The Anam- way, women shall have minimum had negotiated its way out of the of 37 senators in the senate and know they are better managers of unauthorized persons, nobody has bra governorship election is just six scarce resources? ports, but still got caught on its way ever been shot at because he/she is months away. The driver of the truck 74 women in the House of Reps. to a warehouse. Four years down bearing AK 47, despite the presiden- was arrested while the conductor the line, Nigerians were never told That is the general framework of Please leave out the issue of man- tial order to that effect. So, is there a escaped. aging scarce resources. We have not who the importers of those arms are, conspiracy to protect such persons? Nearly one week after, the public the Bill. It still has a long way to go neither do they know what eventu- to become a law. forgotten the case of Patricia Etteh, Already, the Akwa-Ibom State has not been updated on the matter. former Speaker of the House of Reps. ally happened to those arms or their governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, in Yet, this is a zone where violence importers. Were they (importers) ever The lawmakers do not need to The nation is currently contending with a video that went viral, this week, and attack on police stations and the case of the suspended Managing arrested and prosecuted? Were the has lamented how the police com- correctional facilities have continued waste any time in passing such arms destroyed? Were they added into a Bill. We indeed need more Director of the Nigerian Ports Author- missioner in the state has ordered the unabated. Is it any wonder that the ity (NPA), Hadiza Bala Usman on the the armoury of the Nigerian military? release of 18 AK47-bearing persons rave of attacks in the South East has women in the parliament. With Were they released to their importers? more women, there will be less issue of under-remittance of NPA funds arrested by vigilante men in the state. continued unchecked? to the federal till. Many a times, it is argued that the The 18 persons were said to have fake Obviously, it is an attempt to arrest friction and throwing of chairs announcement of such interception or boxing of themselves. Indeed, army uniforms and the rifles, yet the the ugly development that the federal Don’t drag in extra-territorial of arms get to the public’s ears only police ordered that they be released. government recently established more women will make the tone when there is a failure in “settlement” in the parliament more reconcil- matters here. It is a democracy. How is this explained? the National Centre for the Control The people want more women in between the importers and Customs Little wonder that former Head of Small Arms and Light Weapons iatory than combative. We need personnel. more women. And don’t forget the parliament. If it goes through of State, Gen Abdusalami Abubakar (NCCSALW). the process, so be it. And there is Yes, the argument has been rife recently disclosed that about six It is hoped that this agency will be that their soft appeal to national about Nigeria becoming the pre- issues always have great effects. nothing you can do about it from million illegal arms are floating in able to not only halt the influx of illegal the sideline. ferred destination of all the arms Nigeria. How did those arms get arms into the country, but also work Who knows with more women and light weapons from Libya, DRC in the parliament, this spate of into Nigeria? assiduously hard to recover most of I am a stakeholder. Tell these women and Sudan, where wars have been Stories have been making the the illegal arms in the country. violence threatening the country, fought or still being fought. But it is would be a thing of the past when not to be in a hurry. Once upon a time, rounds of how certain helicopters Needless to say that the large caché it was just Franca Afegbua as a female worrisome that despite the fortifica- have been dropping arms, ammuni- of arms in the hands of unauthorized they activate their motherly mode tion of the land borders, illegal arms in appealing to those bandits and lawmaker in the country. Today, they tion and even food items in some persons is a precursor to war. Those are about 21 female lawmakers in both and ammunition still flow into the forests, for bandits and other violent who doubt this should ask Somalia Boko Haram terrorists. We really country unhindered, thus putting need more women, and we don’t chambers. It is growing. They should criminals. Nobody has been able to and Sudan. Many people like Prof Pat not be faster than their shadows. a big and multiple question marks assuredly verify the claims. But it Utomi believe that another civil war care if it will cost us addition N7.8 on the efficiency and patriotism of billion to service them annually. But talking seriously, how many may not be impossible. Although has already started in the country, of the women have you heard being the men and women in the Nigerian denied, a former Head of State has what with the scale of killings and After all, is it not better to spend Immigration Service whose duty it that money on our women and legislatively aggressive in canvassing also been linked to the ownership of violence ravaging every part of the a position that is of greater benefit to is to police our borders. one of such helicopters. country. achieve peace than expend more And that explains why today, AK47, than thrice that amount, and yet majority of Nigerians? Don’t you know Just last Sunday, people going to To save the nation from the im- that many of them are bench warmers? a high caliber rifle, is now such a com- church ran into a truck which fell in minent unrest and conflagration, the get no respite? mon weaponry in the country, as if it Or did you not hear the other day, Onitsha and spilled all of its content NCCSALW should get cracking by how a female senator rebuked a fellow is a kitchen knife or even catapult. Just on the road. The content happened to raking in most of the illegal arms in You are talking rubbish. You mean everywhere, you hear and see AK 47. we should knowingly undertake to senator for bemoaning the security be live bullets. Reports say it took a circulation. Unless and until that is situation in the country, asking the Otherwise young and feeble fellows hired tipper three trips before it could done, our skies will continue to be spend another N7.8 billion to service get lionized and can take a whole the narrow interest of selfish women colleague if he was a PDP member? Are clear the bullets off the road, amidst lit with the sparks of illegal bullets those the myopic sentiments that will community captive, just because they guided protection by the army and as we sleep with just an eye closed. in the name of gender balancing, in have arms, most times even more encourage more female representation? FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 • THISDAY 35 36 FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 ˾THISDAY NEWSEXTRA FG Clueless on Economic Revival, Says Bauchi Gov Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi blame game and look for a nepotism by the Buhari led- “If you are not fair and of federal offices, even in the cows and small gods who way forward. administration, added there is no equitable in your administration, local governments. cannot be touched in Buhari’s Bauchi State Governor Bala “I think the federal government fairness and equitable allocation in your management, if there is “If you don’t practise fairness government but if you are Mohammed has accused the All has lost any idea to grow the of appointments across the six nepotism where only one section at the top then you cannot get it not fair and equitable in your Progressives Congress (APC)-led economy. What they are best geopolitical zones. is given positions in government, at the lower table and people will government, If there is nepotism federal government of lacking known for is the blame game. The governor also stated that what the southern governors begin to think of self-actualisation, where only one section is giving ideas on how to address the They are not even fighting the the Southern governors were said smacked of some aspects of self-determination and so on and positions in your government, various economic challenges corruption they claimed to be right in some aspects of their truth where some people were it will reflect negatively. Unless then there will be problems. bedeviling the nation. fighting” resolutions reached at their Asaba given too much attention to the we ensure fairness and equity “There is an iota of truth in Speaking yesterday to “There’s more corruption; meeting on Tuesday, adding that detriment of the other side. in the leadership of the country what the southern governors journalists at the Government perceptions are built that there are only one section of the country “What we know in this as we cannot grow the economy,” said on some sections being House, Bauchi, shortly after sacred cows; there are tin gods was being given positions in a federalist; there is always a he asserted. highly favoured at the detriment performing the Eid prayers to in this country who cannot be government. balance in terms of appointment He said: ”There are sacred of others. mark the Sallah celebration, touched,” Mohammed declared. the governor said the federal Mohammed, who blamed government should stop the the nation’s backwardness on Nigeria Showing Signs of Failed State, Ozekhome Laments Says no need for fresh national dialogue David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka country, but we do not need another dialogue.” A Senior Advocate of Nigeria He was the keynote speaker (SAN), Chief Mike Ozekhome, at the 25th law week of the yesterday stated that Nigeria is Awka branch of the Nigeria Bar showing all signs of a failed state. Association (NBA), Anambra Ozekhome also faulted the State, where he spoke on the call by 17 southern governors topic: ‘Legal profession in a for a constitutional conference, lawless society: Rediscovering saying the call for a new law as a tool for social change’. conference was unnecessary, The senior lawyer, who especially considering that decried the near state of anarchy A NEW INNOVATION … the recommendation of the in the country, lamented that L-R: Member, Photo Journalists Association of Nigeria (PJAN), Website Committee, Mr. Sunday Adedeji; Chairman, PJAN, Lagos Chapter, one held in 2014 had not been there are already signs that implemented. Nigeria was sliding into a failed Mr. Kola Olasupo; CEO, Webtek, Masters Innovation, Mr. Victor Adeshile; and member of the Website Committee, Mr. Kehinde Shonola, He said: “I was at the 2014 state, regretting that President during the signing ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Pjan and Webtek Innovation to build Pjan website National Conference headed by Muhammadu Buhari was in Lagos...recently late Justice Idris Kutigi, and the nowhere to be found in all the over 200 recommendations we troubles in the country. made at that conference was The legal expert said: “Let me South-east Youths Urge FG to De-proscribe IPOB yet to be touched. tell you, one of the ingredients David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka court, leading to its proscription. communique signed by leaders increasing state of insecurity, “The conference consisted of a failed state is when non- But in an emergency meeting of various youth organisations, and the overall development of 492 Nigerians drawn from state actors like bandits and Youths of the South-east held in Awka, , including Ohanaeze Ndigbo of the Igbo nation, it is hereby all strata, and the report has kidnappers challenge the state zone of Nigeria have called yesterday, the young South-east Youth, National Youth Council resolved as follows: ‘The never been touched by this security. With bandits just two on the federal government stakeholders said there was of Nigeria (South-east), Nigerian heightened insecurity in the government, even with a 10 hours away from Abuja, the to immediately de-proscribe need to return peace in the Youth Congress (South-east), South-east region, which has foot pole. So, when I heard the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Indigenous People of Biafra region, stating that part of National Association of Nigerian resulted in the loss of lives of 17 southern governors talking that is the greatest ingredient of (IPOB). the steps towards peace would Students (NANS) among others, our people, security agents and about another conference... I a failed state, and that is where IPOB, a group championing be to de-proscribe IPOB and which was made available to property, is highly regretted, knew they mean well for the we are today. the independence of a sovereign release any of its members held THISDAY in Awka yesterday. as we deeply commiserate state if Biafra, was in 2017 in prison. It said: “Having considered with the families of the NEMA Hands over designated a terrorist group by a This stance was contained in a the state of the nation, the bereaved. Relief Materials to 24,925 Ortom: Anyone against Southern Govs’ Open Grazing Households in Niger Ban Has Hidden Agenda George Okoh in Makurdi Diocese of Makurdi. appreciation to the Church next academic session, adding Says 14 LGAs in need of support The governor said that and Muslims in Benue that children must be trained Governor Samuel Ortom of his southern counterparts State as well as residents and supported to inculcate Kasim Sumaina in Abuja in Abuja, yesterday by the Benue State yesterday said had chosen the right path for being supportive of his reading in them, even as he Head of Media and Public any Nigerian opposed to the to address insecurity. administration just as he described communication as The National Emergency Relations of the agency, Mr. Southern Governors’ decision He maintained that Nigeria acknowledged the good key in the society. Management Agency (NEMA) Manzo Ezekiel, explained that banning open grazing of cattle remains a great country with reportage of government On his part, the Catholic yesterday hinted that it has a joint assessment recently has a hidden agenda. huge potentials and should, policies and programmes Bishop of Makurdi Diocese, commenced direct distribution conducted by staff of NEMA Ortom made the remark ordinarily, have no business by the Directorate of Social Most Reverend Wilfred Anagbe, of relief materials to 24,925 and Niger State Emergency at Holy Ghost Parish with poverty if only there were Communication, Catholic said that social communication household of displaced Management Agency showed Hall in Makurdi while guaranteed security for lives Diocese of Makurdi. was meant to uplift humanity persons affected by banditry that the displaced persons are delivering his speech on the and property and the people The governor also disclosed and the society, emphasising in Niger State. in stable condition. occasion of ‘Media Week and are allowed to remain stable his administration’s plans that it remains a positive aspect This is even as it revealed According to him, “It Communications Day 2021’, in their localities. to commence teaching of of reality of life and not the that 14 local government was on this basis that the organised by the Catholic Ortom expressed vernacular in schools in the other way round. areas of the state affected presidential approval was by banditry are currently obtained and the requisite in need of food and support. materials comprised of 5,412 The Director-General of bags (10kg) of rice, 5,412 bags India Kicks against ‘Indian Variant’ Tag on Strain of COVID-19 NEMA, AVM Muhammadu (10kg) of beans, 500 kegs of Michael Olugbode in Abuja heading: “WHO has not Organisation (WHO) classifying on its 32 page document.” Muhammed (rtd), flagged off vegetable oil, 500 cartons of associated the term ‘Indian B.1.617 as variant of global “In fact, the word ‘Indian’ has the relief distribution in Kuta, seasoning cubes and 500 bags The Indian Government has Variant’ with B.1.617, now concern. not been used in its report on the headquarters of Shiroro of iodized salt were delivered taken exception to the description classified as Variant of Concern,” “Some of the reports have the matter. Local Government Area of to them.” of one of the COVID-19 variants said that to name one of its termed the B.1.617 variant of It described India’s recovery the state. He further explained as “the Indian variant.” variants as Indian would be the COVID-19 as an ‘Indian rate of 83.26 per cent and 177 The NEMA DG, who was that the materials would A statement issued on wrong. Variant.’ “This is to clariify that million vaccinations are among represented by the Head of be distributed directly to Wednesday by the Press The statement reads: “Several WHO has not associated the the highest while the country’s Minna Operations Office, the affected persons in Information Bureau of the media reports have covered term “Indian Variant” with the mortality rate of 1.09 per cent is Hajiya Zainab Ahmad Saidu, the IDP camps and host Government of India with the news of World Health B.1.617 variant of the COVID-19 among the lowest in the world. while sympathises with the communities by NEMA affected persons, stated that staff in collaboration with the relief materials approved officials of the state emergency FG Urges Israel, Palestine to Live in Peace by President Muhammadu management agency. Micheal Olugbode in Abuja In a statement issued Ferdinand Nwonye, read: “The to see reason and de-escalate Buhari were delivered to Muhammad noted that the yesterday by the Ministry of Federal Ministry of Foreign the hostilities. “The federal compliment the efforts of the beneficiary LGAs include The federal government has Foreign Affairs, the federal Affairs wishes to state that the government further urges the state government and others, Rafi, Shiroro, Bosso, Munya, called on Israel and the Palestine government also urged the Federal Government of Nigeria two parties to remain committed to provide succor over their Paikoro, Mariga, Kontagora, to guarantee the rights of their two parties to de-escalate the is watching with great concern to the two-state solution and, situation. Magama, Mashegu, Wushishi, citizens to live in peace and hostilities. the unfolding developments in the meantime, guarantee the Muhammad in a statement Rijau, Borgu, Lapai and end the hostilities between the The statement signed by the with Israel and the State of rights of all citizens to live in made available to journalists Lavun. two countries. spokesman of the ministry, Mr. Palestine and urges both parties peace and dignity.” FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 ˾THISDAY 37 24 HOURS... 24 HOURS... World Bank: Foreign Sponsors Driving Major Projects in Nigeria gas to locations around the According to the report, in 2020 stood at $45.7billion a 52 per cent decline from Dike Onwuamaeze important role in developing world,” it stated. investment commitments across 252 projects, marking 2019 levels. sizable infrastructure projects A new report by the World in Nigeria.” Bank has indicated that The report identified the the execution of major Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano infrastructural projects in pipeline project as one the Nigeria was being driven four natural gas projects in by foreign sponsors. some countries with $6.9billion The report titled ‘Private in investment commitments participation in infrastructure in 2020. 2020 annual report,’ noted that The Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano a sizable 2020 PPI investment pipeline is being developed commitments in Nigeria were by the Nigerian National mainly due to a big-ticket Petroleum Corporation natural gas pipeline projects. (NNPC) to transport natural “Nigeria has managed gas from southern Nigeria to to report PPI investment central Nigeria. commitments for five “The $2.8billion pipeline consecutive years since 2015. project represents phase one Sizable 2020 PPI investment of the 1,300-kilometer Trans- commitments in Nigeria were Nigerian Gas Pipeline project, mainly due to a big-ticket which is being developed as natural gas pipeline project. part of Nigeria’s Gas Master “The $2.6billion pipeline will Plan to utilise the country’s IN PURSUIT OF COMMON INTEREST… transport up to 3,500 million surplus gas resources for L-R: , Governor, Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; and Ogun State Governor, cubic feet of gas a day from power generation as well as Prince Dapo Abiodun, during the Southern Nigeria Governors’ Forum meeting in Asaba… recently various gas gathering projects for consumption by domestic in southern Nigeria. customers,” it stated. “Projects with foreign “The pipelines will provide PANDEF, Igbo Youths Differ on IG’s Withdrawal of sponsors, especially from a faster, more economical China, have played an means of delivering natural Police Personnel Escorting VIPs The apex socio-cultural the decision, saying it would carry people with arms to protect Republic of Nigeria, to allow organisation of the Niger expose their leaders to harm. you. Sometimes, you observe states to operate State and Local Omo-Agege Canvasses Delta region, the Pan Niger The National Chairman of that somebody doesn’t move government police. Delta Forum (PANDEF) and PANDEF, Senator Emmanuel with an escort before, but once On its part, COSEYL the Coalition of South East Ebok-Essien who spoke yesterday you are elected or appointed, condemned the recent directive Strict Observance of Youth Leaders, (COSEYL) have in Uyo explained that it was suddenly you start going with by the police authorities. expressed opposing views on wrong in the first place for the Police. Why must we go Speaking to journalists in the recent directive by police representatives of the people with the police? Owerri, Imo State capital, the COVID-19 Protocols authorities withdrawing all to be going with police escorts. “For me, a representative coalition leader, Mr. Goodluck Deji Elumoye in Abuja fasting and adherence to holy police escorts to Senators, House His words, “In the first place of the people should not be Ibem who faulted the directive injunctions. of Representatives members, I never subscribe for the police scared of the people he or she said the zone at this point in The Deputy President of the According to the senator, “I Speakers and other political escorting VIPs or anybody. is representing. Representatives time needed security the most. Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, has felicitate with all Muslims across office holders in the South-east. I never supported the idea. of the people should be free He argued that the directive canvassed for strict observance of the country as they celebrate this Which PANDF has backed the And it is not right. If you are with the people that they are was a calculated attempt to COVID-19 protocols as Muslim year’s Eid-el-Fitri which was suspension of police personnel representing the people, and you representing.” expose the political office faithful celebrate Eid el Fitri in begun by the holy Prophet of from escorting VIPs, in the South- are acceptable by the people, The PANDEF Chair holders in South-east to harms the country. Islam. It is a special day to express east, and some South-south states, you should be free with the advocated the amendment of and attacks by hoodlums and Omo-Agege in his Sallah gratitude to the Almighty God the Igbo youths have condemned people. “You don’t need to the Constitution of the Federal unknown gunmen. message yesterday emphasised for all that we are and all that the need for careful observance of we have. COVID-19 protocols, noting that “The lessons of this period, Unknown Persons Vandalise Newly Constructed while Nigeria has been relatively including the virtues that safe thus far, the world is yet to the holy month of Ramadan Itakpe-Warri Rail Tracks overcome the pandemic. emphasises are worth being Kasim Sumaina in Abuja the track. perpetrated the act on the Warri- NRC Northern District Engineer, He stressed that even with the sustained towards making our In a viral video circulating Itakpe standard gauge line around Mr. Haruna Sabo, had recently conclusion of Ramadan fasting, country and indeed the world Barely five days after the Nigerian online, the vandals used saw-like KM 30 Adogo, section told the News Agency of Nigeria Nigeria and the world need a a better place. Railway Corporation (NRC), object to cut through the rail line of the rail. (NAN), in Zaria that two persons continuation of the self-control, “I, therefore, call on all our announced the arrest of two to a point where the pieces could The NRC boss, while confirming suspected of vandalising rail tracks godliness and generosity towards Muslim brothers and sisters across persons suspected of vandalising be carted away, thereby exposing the incident, said the train was along the Kaduna-Zaria rail line one another. Nigeria to continue to reflect on rail tracks along the Kaduna-Zaria passengers to danger still being operated as there was had been arrested. While felicitating with Nigerian how their spiritual lives and rail line, the corporation has raised The Managing Director/CEO, an alternative. He had also stated that the Muslims as they celebrate Eid-el cultivation of human virtues can the alarm over the vandalism of the NRC, Mr. Fidet Okhiria, According to him, “the incident corporation had deployed patrol Fitri, Omo-Agege commended contribute more towards fostering the newly fixed Itakpe-Warri rail confirmed the development to happened two days ago. teams along the rail line following them for their passionate peace, unity and progress in our line by yet-to-be identified persons, journalists yesterday “But we are still in operation the repeated vandalism of the rail observance of the Ramadan dear country.” who cut off several sections of Okhiria stated that vandals because we have an alternative” tracks. TCN Restores Power Supply Those Beating Drums of War, Not Patriotic, Says Kogi Gov after Nationwide Blackout Ibrahim Oyewale in Lokoja el fitr prayers, signifying the as a country lies in being united to preach peace and unity. We end of Ramadan at the Lokoja and not allowing ethnic, religion must realise that those beating Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja to electricity consumers Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Township Stadium yesterday, and political party affiliations drums of war today are not nationwide,” she stated last Bello, has described those beating adding that Nigerians must divide it. patriotic .We must remain The Transmission Company night. drums of war in Nigeria as unite to save the country from According to him, “Today, patriotic and resilient. of Nigeria (TCN) yesterday The country’s electricity unpatriotic elements, stressing disintegration. we are witnessing worsening “Many things may not be said that it had completed grid had suffered another that there is no other country The governor, therefore, insecurity in the land; lack of working as expected, but let the restoration of power to the system collapse on Wednesday, for them to live in than Nigeria. appealed to Nigerians to remain cohesion and seeming disunity everything start perfectly national grid after a nationwide throwing Nigerians into Bello stated this while fielding united, and continued to pray among our people. I want to from our homes. How are system collapse on Wednesday. darkness and leaving businesses questions from journalists against the current challenges urge everyone to remember that we ensuring we can improve A brief statement by the to hook on to alternative shortly after he observed the facing the country, noting that we have only one country. We our lots .We must respect General Manager, Public Affairs electricity sources. two Rakat congregational Eid Nigeria’s greater achievements must unite and come together authorities. of the government-controlled Nigeria’s erratic power entity, Mrs. Ndidi Mbah, noted grid, along with the resulting that normalcy had returned after precarious energy supply, is said the incident. to be a key issue hindering Ilorin Emir Urges Nigerians to Adopt Measures against COVID-19 “TCN restored bulk power growth in the continent’s largest Hammed Shittu in Ilorin Gambari stated this yesterday Muhammad Bashir Soliu. “The society had gone far to all the 330kV transmission economy. while delivering his Sallah According to the emir, “We enough to prevent leashing stations across the entire grid Operators have said that a The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, message to Muslim faithful give thanks to Almighty Allah violent reactions on any matter by 5.54pm yesterday. The “spinning reserve”, the amount Kwara State Council of Chiefs, shortly after he observed the once again for granting us the that ought to have been settled Kainji - Birnin Kebbi line of unused capacity in online Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, two Rakat prayers marking grace to observe the Ramadan amicably. however tripped on a fault energy assets which can has urged Nigerians to always the end of the 2021 Ramadan fasting successfully.” “The fasting has come and but was restored. compensate for power shortages adopt preventive measures fasting on the Ilorin Central Eid He added: “Religious gone. All restraints exhibited while “TCN’s 330kV substations or frequency drops within a and protocols of the COVID-19 praying ground. misunderstandings in the state it lasted should continue, and feed 132kV substations, through given period of time, holds pandemic in order to check the The prayer was led by the should be addressed by the two the end of fasting should not be which distribution companies the solution to the occasional third wave of deadly virus. Chief Imam of Ilorin, Alhaji main religious leaders. the end of personal discipline.” off-take electricity they deliver collapses. 38 FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 ˾THISDAY 24 HOURS... Mimiko Backs Southern Govs’ WORLD OF ISLAM Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email [email protected] Open Grazing Ban, Restructuring James Sowole in Akure of the National Assembly have (sub-national government weighed in. It’s all a reflection control). A former governor of Ondo of the realisation of the fact that “There surely cannot be May the Spirit of State, Dr. , the nation may be perching at any disagreement amongst has expressed his support to the precipice, and of the urgent the governors on the issue of the resolutions arrived at by need to pull her back. devolution of resources from southern governors after a “The next step is for the the centre. As a matter of fact, meeting held in Asaba, the southern governors to meet the present revenue allocation Ramadan Remain Delta State capital on Tuesday. with their northern counterparts formula has long been statutorily In a statement issued to iron out what may just be due for review. New sources of By: Sadullah Khan/IslamiCity Islam depends on how the ummah practically yesterday, Mimiko urged the minor areas of difference in revenue will surely be needed engages the world. Other people see Islam southern governors to meet with substance and timelines. for state policing, and to address We usher in Eid-ul-Fitr by saying farewell to through the Muslims, and if Muslims fail the their northern counterparts to “There cannot be any ongoing security challenges in the blessed month of Ramadan and reflect world then Islam would seem to have failed. on how our devotions through Ramadaan Our Qualitative Contribution resolve the areas of differences reasonable arguments against the states. have effectively impacted on our attitudes, We often feel a sense of ascendency primarily and save the country from its decentralisation of policing Mimiko advised all the our relationships, our bodies, our hearts, our because Islam (in some areas of the world) is current predicament. to ensure the emergence of stakeholders to act on the minds and our souls. the fastest growing religion. But it has never “It is also salutary that compact and efficient sub- Nigeria issue when it was As Muslims, we are well aware that Islam really been about numbers, it has rather always members of the Southern Caucus national forces under state time to do so. has always been a comprehensive and an been about ihsaan (goodness) and itqaan all-embracing movement. It has at the head (excellence). of its program spiritual development, sincere It is not what quantitative numerical position devotion, observance of divine guidelines, we occupy, it is what qualitative contribution Benin Disco Provides Meters for sustaining a wholesome environment, reform we make. It is about bringing hope to those of human society and empowering of human people or situations that may seem helpless. beings. An essential component of the mission Prophet Muhammad advised; “Allah disdains 25% of Targeted Customers of all prophets has thus been reinstituting of hopelessness. It is incumbent upon you to take Benin Electricity Distribution in Bands A, B and C, as the The communiqué listed the the natural balance and the implementation of a hopeful stand with an intelligent resolve.” Company Plc (BEDC) has initial focus to curtail energy challenges being confronted social justice [Qur’an 57:25]. We are inheritors [Abu Dawud] installed more than 25 per cent theft and meter bypass while by BEDC during the NNMP of that prophetic movement; a movement that, Nothing affirms our humanity more than of the 90,870 meters targeted for the company has also began installation process to include of necessity, has to be relevant. our capacity to empathize. It is this frame customers under the first phase community metering where meter tampering, rejection of Relevance of Faith dependant on Practical of heart that enables us to feel the agony of of the National Mass Metering transformers of over 600 meters by some customers, Action the pains experienced by others, and to treat Programme (NNMP) expected communities have been metered aggressive and violent customer We need to realize that the relevance of others as we would like to be treated, and to to be completed in the next three so far,” the communiqué said. behaviour and extortion of some Islam is not determined by the importance do our best to make the world a better place; months. The communiqué, while customers by some unscrupulous we as the “faithful” assign to our faith, but one good deed at a time. Faith and religion can The company disclosed this noting growing joint efforts agents for meter installation and rather how our all-embracing faith responds only truly manifest as leading positive forces in a communiqué issued at the by communities in combating procurement. to the realities of our times. if we as people of faith realize the need for the Relevance is not measured by teaching the spiritualization of our being, the moralization of end of a Town Hall meeting electricity theft in the BEDC The communique noted shahaadah (testimony of faith) to a starving our consciousness, empathy in our attitude, and on “Facilitating metering and coverage areas, added that assurances by the BEDC to person, or merely praying for those who are goodness in our conduct. Wise ones have said Combating Electricity Theft in metering under NNMP is free customers that corrupt members impoverished or simply by cutting off the hands that faith is not manifested by mere wishing; BEDC states” organised recently and customers do not have to of staff would be punished and of the thief. Relevance is rather determined by rather it is rooted in the purity of heart and by the Stakeholders Democracy pay. urged electricity customers the desire to feed the hungry at the time of verified by beneficial action. Network (SDN) for critical It warned that BEDC and approached by its agents for need, alleviating the suffering of those in pain May the empathic spirit of Ramadan endure stakeholders in the electricity industry stakeholders could the purpose of extortion to utilise at the time of hurt and the general commitment in all of us. sector in Benin City, the Edo sue and be sued on accounts the company’s whistle blowing to remove the need to steal. The relevance of Eid Mubarak! State capital. of electricity theft and consumer channels to report such corrupt According to the communiqué, rights violation. acts and electricity theft. BEDC plans to eliminate “The Federal Competition estimated billing for unmetered and Consumer Protection customers in its four franchise Commission (FCCPC) is Southern Govs’ Eid al-Fitr: An states of Delta, Edo, Ekiti and carrying out electricity consumer Ondo over a period of six education and interfacing months as part of the NNMP. between customers and Discos Summit: VON DG Introspective Celebration “BEDC is now installing for complaints resolution,” the meters on the pole for customers communique said. Appeals for Caution By: Sadullah Khan/IslamiCity character. This leads to a degree of moral, ethical and spiritual elevation towards piety. The one CHANGE OF NAME CHANGE OF NAME Chuks Okocha in Abuja We are bidding al-wida/farewell to the blessed who has truly benefited from Ramadan is the month of Ramadan, the month of the Qur’an, one whose condition after Ramadan becomes I formally known and address as I formerly known and addressed The Director-General of the the month of siyam/fasting, the month of better than it was before Ramadan. MISS OLUWASEUN AYOMIPO as FATIMA SANUSI FARI now Voice of Nigeria (VON), Osita qiyam/night prayers, the month of ghufran/ ARIYIBI, now wish to be known wish to be known and addressed forgiveness, the month of ihsan/goodness and and address as MRS OLUWA- Okechukwu, has called on Renewed Commitment as FATIMA MUSA AHMED. All Nigerians to look beyond the month of karam/generosity. We bid farewell SEUN AYOMIPO HAASTRUP. All former documents remain valid. to the month that hosts Layla-tul-Qadr/Night We should emerge from the month of Ramadan former documents remain valid. the frenzy of restructuring as The general public should please canvassed by the Southern of Power, a month that harbors Yawm-al Furqan with hopefully a better personality and a The general public should please take note. (The Day of Criterion occasioned by the Battle stronger character, confident of our ability take note. Governors Summit in Asaba, Delta State. of Badr). We bid sentimental farewell to a to subordinate our desires to our will, our I formally known and address as I formerly known and addressed shahrun mubarak, a hallowed month indeed. emotions to our intellect; our lower self to MISS EKPENYONG KEZIAH as JOSHUA TAIWO OLANIYI now Okechukwu, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), In bidding farewell to Ramadan, we are the higher self. Ramadan has filled our lives YEMISI , now wish to be known wish to be known and addressed faced with three question. Are we also with blessings, awakened our slumbering and address as MRS ODIAKA warned that conceding more bidding farewell to all the good deeds we as ADESUNLOYE JOSHUA powers to the governors would conscience and hopefully purified our souls. KEZIAH YEMISI. All former doc- TAIWO. All former documents did in Ramadan? Will we maintain the key We have abstained from the three uments remain valid. The gen- put the country’s democracy in practices of patience, humility, compassion, remain valid. The general public grave danger. fundamentals of life; food, drink (necessary eral public should please take should please take note. solidarity and generosity throughout the year? for daily survival) and from intimacy (which note. In a statement issued in Abuja As Ramadan departs, will we let the spirit of facilitates the perpetuation of the human race). yesterday, the VON boss advised I formally known and address as This is to notify the general pub- Ramadan leave us as well? We have done this unquestioningly from lic that I, EMMANUEL MOSES Nigerians to tread carefully, and dawn to dusk for one whole month. Now ANYIKE BEAUTY CHINOTU, not to see the socio-economic now wish to be known and ad- SUNDAY. Henceforth, wishes Reflection of a Spiritual the auspicious day of ‘Eid al-Fitr approaches; to be known and addressed as and security challenges facing dress as ERHIMU BEAUTY Wayfarer every conscientious soul should be ready to NWUNA MOSES SUNDAY. All the country as a reason to give face the year that lies ahead with renewed zeal, CHINOTU. All former documents documents bearing all names more powers to the governors, unwavering will, devoted fervor, enthusiastic remain valid. The general public Let each one of us open a page from the book remain valid. The general public “who are already mismanaging of our individual muhasabah/self-examination dedication, higher vision; accompanied by an should please take note. should please take note. their powers as Emperors.” and reflect as to what was achieved through enhanced spirit of universal goodwill. Be ever I formally known and address as I formally known and address as According to him, “Giving this month. What benefits were derived, which cognizant of the fact that next Ramadan may SHITTU GBEMISOLA ABIODUN, MISS. UNUO-TARA VERA AKH- more powers to state governors behaviors were adjusted, what good practices or may not come; even if it does, we may or IDENOR, now wish to be known will by omission or commission have been adopted, which bad habits have may not be around. now wish to be known and address create Frankenstein monsters as ABUTU GBEMISILA ABIODUN. and address as MISS. UNUOTARA been relinquished; and how did the prayers VERA-OSASERE OSAROBO-IDA- which will put our democracy and fasting of Ramadan influence our attitudes Mindful Celebration All former documents remain valid. HOSA. All former documents remain in harm’s way.” and perspectives; how has it improved our The general public should please valid. The general public should He recalled that President relationships; with Allah, families, friends and Islam teaches us how to celebrate through ‘Eid; take note. please take note. Muhammadu Buhari in 2018 neighbors; how did it affect our bodies, our a celebration incorporating worship that brings I formally known and address as I formally known and address as endorsed the amendment of hearts, minds and souls? Muslims together in harmony, remembering We have been spiritual wayfarers/as-sa’ihan Allah’s bounties and celebrating His glory JEGEDE ADEFUNKE TAIWO, MISS EJELUA SALOME, now the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on the transcendent journey towards the and magnificence. `Eid is an opportunity to now wish to be known and ad- wish to be known and address as MRS AKAJIOFOR SALOME granting financial autonomy attainment of piety. Where did that journey take multiply good deeds, bringing delight and dress as MRS ADEFUNKE to the state judiciary and state us? Have we become better human beings; more pleasure to the hearts of families and friends; EZEKIEL. All former documents OKWUCHUKWU. All former docu- ments remain valid. The general legislatures, as foundation for considerate, more caring, more compassionate? without forgetting the less privileged. We do remain valid. The general public Have we journeyed from self-centeredness to not start our ‘Eid festivity until sadaqatul fitr/ public should please take. real restructuring, “but painfully, should please take note. two years down the line, the social consciousness, from self-righteousness charity of ‘Eid has been paid; thus remembering to righteousness? Where did we start and how the poor and downtrodden even before we I formally known and address as I formally known and address as governors have refused to implement it.” far have we journeyed; if at all. start our celebration. FLORA, ADA NNENNA, UMU- MISS OGBOLU UCHE JOSE- We have fasted in pursuance of taqwa, which is Let the day of ‘Eid al-Fitr be an opportunity KORO, now wish to be known and PHINE, now wish to be known and Okechukwu maintained that the continuous process of character development to purge ourselves from grudges and suspicion, address as FLORA ADA, NNENNA address as MRS OKONJI UCHE Nigerians cannot expect good coupled with Allah-consciousness. It entails an occasion for eliminating rancor and hatred; UMUKORO. All former documents JOSEPHINE. All former docu- governance when the governors purification of the self from the evils of bad a time of renewed kindness to dear ones, a ments remain valid. The general acting as ‘Emperors’ had locked intention, deceit, hypocrisy, egoism, cowardice, time for fostering love among Muslims and remain valid. The general public up all democratic institutions should please take note. public should please take. conceit, prejudice. It becomes manifested in compassion for humanity. in the state. positive attitude, good behavior and lovable ‘Eid Mubarak! FRIDAY MAY 14, 2021 ˾THISDAY 39

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email [email protected] FRIDAYSPORTS 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY FA CUP FINAL Rodgers Charges Iheanacho, Ndidi, Others to Make Leicester History Tomorrow Super Eagles duo of Kelechi become the first Leicester the Thai-owned club. Rodgers said yesterday. these games.” good and we’ll see what the Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi side to win the FA Cup on A crowd of 21 000 will be “We have watched it (the Rodgers, whose side is also reaction is after that and make look set to join legion of Saturday after four previous at Wembley, with Chelsea and cup final) all through our lives. on track to qualify for next the final decision tomorrow former and present Nigerian defeats in the final. Leicester allocated 6 250 tickets To be able to lead Leicester season’s Champions League, (Friday). football star players to have Leicester face Champions each as part of a pilot to test out for the first time in 50-odd is hoping experienced central “It’s just a discussion won the prestigious English League finalists Chelsea in the return of big crowds to years will be a real privilege defender Jonny Evans will be between myself and Jonny. FA Cup when Leicester City English football’s premier venues during the coronavirus for me. fit to face Chelsea after missing You always have to speak play FC Chelsea in the final of cup competition – the first pandemic. “These weeks you always two games with a heel injury. to the players and Jonny is the competition tomorrow at time the Foxes have reached “We have earned the right have to stay calm. This is a “We’re giving him another a warrior. the Porto Stadium in Portugal. the showpiece occasion since to be in the final and we will game where you can create day,” said Rodgers. “He has “If there is any way he can On record, Daniel Amokachi, 1969. arrive with an opportunity an incredible legacy, you progressed really well in the play – even if he is not 100 per Nwankwo Kanu and John Several players, including to make our own history,” write your own stories in last 24 hours. He looked very cent – he will be out there.” Mikel Obi are former Super talisman Jamie Vardy, remain Eagles players that have from the team that produced won the cup before with one of the biggest shocks in Everton, Arsenal and Chelsea English football history by Nigeria’s Female Rowing Team Departs for Switzerland respectively and history beacon winning the Premier League Nigeria’s female rowing team General of the Rowing, female finals of the rowing event. Development, Mr Sunday Dare on the duo to do same with in 2016. arrived Lucerne, Switzerland Canoeing and Sailing Federation, The the Swiss Embassy issued for ensuring that the team Foxes. But many of the current on Wednesday to participate Bunmi Oluode, “The team made the visa Wednesday afternoon, travelled against all odds. Team’s Manager, Brendan crop were not in that side in the final qualifier for the up of two athletes and one to enable them departed with The final rowing Olympic Rodgers, yesterday said and Rodgers said they now Regatta event of the 2020 Tokyo coach departed for Lucerne, Turkish airline.” qualifiers will take place in his players can “create an had the possibility of making Olympics. Switzerland on Wednesday She commended the Lucerne, Switzerland from incredible legacy” if they their own slice of history for According to the Secretary night to participate in the Minister of Youth and Sports 12th to 17th May. Team Nigeria Kisarazu Gerrard Extols ’s Makeshift Role in Rangers Win Femi Solaja with agency report from home and the pitch is happened today.” Lions was the 24-year-old’s Camp to Open July 3rd a leveler and conditions are After featuring for 85 30th Premiership game of the changing, you have got to minutes, he was substituted 2020-21 campaign with seven The Federal Ministry of Youth the Olympics proper. Rangers manager is in awe of Joe find your steel first. for , whereas, his goals to his credit. and Sports Development has Nigeria will present about “If you get your steel, that compatriot Aribo is expected to be unveiled a comprehensive 80 athletes in 10 Sports at Aribo’s inspiring performance at left-back in Wednesday’s allows you to get comfortable and South Africa’s Bongani in action for Rangers when plan for Team Nigeria the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. and then you trust your good Zungu were ruled out owing they take on Aberdeen in their towards a podium success Wrestling, Judo, Taekwondo, 3-0 away defeat of Livingston. In the absence of Borna players to go and win you to injury issues. last game of the season on at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics . Table Tennis, Badminton, the game, and that is what The game against the Saturday. According to the roadmap Male and Female Basketball Barisic, the No. 10 was drafted released by the Permanent are some of the events Nigeria to play a defensive role against Secretary of the Federal has qualified. David Martindale’s men. Ministry of Youth and sports Others include; Track Even at that, he excelled Development Mr Nebeolisa and Field, Weightlifting and as he perfectly linked up Anako, The final stage of local Rowing, Canoeing and Sailing. with Jack Simpson, Connor camping will take place from Nigeria decided to narrow Goldson, and May 15th and July 6th in down her participation to help the Gers keep a clean Bayelsa, Abuja, Lagos and to sports where she has slate. Port Harcourt. Track and competitive advantage in As a result of that, the Liverpool legend reserved Field National Olympics winning medals. special praise for Aribo, while Trials takes place June Minister of Youth and labelling him his ‘man-of-the- 17- 19th, African Athletics Sports Development, Mr match’. Championship from June Sunday Dare has repeatedly “What can I say about Joe 22- 26th, 2021. maintained that Team Aribo? Gerrard was quoted The last phase of the Nigeria will improve on her by the Rangers website. camping will be in Kisarazu performance of the last two “I tell you what I’ll say from July 3 and 23rd when Olympics, where she won about him - good players the 1st batch of athletes will only two bronze in Football can play football, and top enter the Games Village for and Track and Field. players can play anywhere on the football pitch and a manager can ask a player to Youngster Kuti Eager to do a role. “Good players can do some Dominate NTTF National and can’t do some, but Joe Aribo is a top player, so whatever I ask him to do, Championships he goes out and gives it his Twelve-year-old Mathew Kuti in Abuja and he will be on duty best shot. has been in fine form after at the national tournament from “He is my ‘Man of the claiming two titles at Aso Cup May 18to 22. Match’ tonight just because Tournament in Abuja and with “It promises to be exciting, when you think about it, he the kick-off of the 2021 NTTF particularly playing in Lagos in is a number 10 and he is just National Championships, the front of my fans. I must also admit so comfortable at left-back and Ayangburen High School student that it is not going to be an easy cruised it and breezed it. believes he has the wherewithal task for me because I know most “That left-back performance to extend his dominance at the of the players are on the lookout is as good as we have seen tournament. for me after my performance in in my three years that I have Kuti claimed the U-13 and Abuja. I am always ready because been here. U-15 titles at the 14th Aso Cup I am not only playing to win but “So well done to him for I am hoping to get a national parking his ego and doing a call-up with my performance,” fantastic job for his teammates the Ikorodu-based player said. - well done.” Kuti who will be listed by Lagos Gerrard also talked about State for the five-day tournament the freedom his players played said he would relax as he has with against Livingston: been training ahead in order to “I think that comes with raise his game. confidence and belief and time. “When I returned from Abuja, I “We have been working did not relax as my coach insisted ever so hard to build this that I must continue training because the champion is always team and we have tried to under pressure to retain his status build it on style, of course, and I know all eyes will be on as our fans demand that and me and I am also ready to prove they want to be entertained, myself in front of the national but we have also got to find Young Mathew Kuti...ready for handlers,” the National Youth steel as well. Lagos Open Games bronze medallist added. “When you come away T RU N Friday May 14, 2021 TH & REASO Price: N250 MISSILE Book Your Bauchi Gov to FG COVID-19 Tests & Vaccinations “I think the FG has lost any idea to grow the economy. What TEXT‘COVID’ TO58123 they are best known for is the blame game. They are not even fi ghting the corruption they claimed to be fi ghting” – Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, att acking the federal government’s

This service is provided in association with accredited service providers inability to address the economic challenges bedeviling Nigeria. AKINOSUNTOKUN DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA [email protected] What is the Exit Strategy? n a recent characteristic demonstration of of terror power politics fostered by the 1966 Buhari was coming to offi ce with a monumental miscue and confusion within the presidency, counter coup, there was logic to his zero sum grouse and sense of injustice against the North. (which sounded more like a confession style of military dictatorship. I refer you to the And as president, he wasted no time and spared of helplessness in articulating a plausible role he played in the blood soaked counter no concern in making the point that he had exit strategy for the Muhammadu Buhari coup of 1966; the July 1975, the 1983 and the come to govern in the near exclusive interest Ipresidency), Vice President 1985 coups detat. Under the institutional norm of a constituency he deemed has been denied unloaded on the Nigerian elite for keeping and tradition of the professional military rather its privileged entitlement. The point to note is mute and fi ddling while Nigeria literally burns. than the political military Nigerian version, that the president is more the demagogue and He lamented: “If the political elite do not speak Abacha would never have attained to the less the genuine Islamic missioner. There is the up, if we don’t see anything wrong in what is offi cers corps. It took a few minutes in the element of the instrumentalist view of religion going on, if we allow it to continue to slide, we company of his American and Russian chief to his politics which panders to ethno religious will endanger ourselves and endanger the future of Army counterparts for them to arrive at sentiments only as an instrument of political of our country. I know that every confl ict is a this conclusion. mobilisation. And in this ploy, he has succeeded result of elite failure, the elite failure to speak In hindsight, one of the prior signifi cant beyond measure but inevitably, the anticlimax up and tell the truth to their communities, that’s red alerts given by candidate Muhammadu has set in and he now has to contend with the the cause of every one of these civil confl icts. Buhari as to the kind of president he would raging fi re of the smoke he ceaselessly stoked; So, I would urge that we speak up. I would be was his legitimisation of Abacha - that the pent up mindless revolt of the famished urge that we stand for something. Sometimes “Abacha did not steal any money” and kept society underclass politicised with religious it’s dangerous to stand for something. But the on repeating this insult even as his government politics. They have become the falcon that no greater danger of course, is to keep quiet.” was lapping up the reparation of hundreds of longer heeds the falconer. He was echoing the Yoruba admonition that million of dollars Abacha loot stashed away in There is also the complementary instance of ‘agba kii wa nilu, ki ori omo tuntun wo (It Buhari the secretive vaults of European banks. This what started as a social media creation but soon is incumbent upon elders to speak out when mindset explains the president’s impervious attained to probable cause- given unfolding things are going wrong) to band together to foster a military take over disposition to the humongous corruption being corroborating evidence. A weird utility of social Osinbajo had hardly fi nished delivering his of government and do their consultations over perpetrated right under his nose. If he could will media dysfunction in Nigeria is how it has homily before his plea was rudely controverted open telephone lines and conspicuous physical himself to believe that Abacha did not steal any become predictive of the Nigerian penchant of by the presidency on whose behalf, he labours interactions? For that matter, the president was money why would he care and act against the reality imitating fi ction. This instance - of reality in vain. Aiming to cow into silence the leading kept informed of this “coup” effort right from furious and nation wrecking theft to which the imitating fi ction was the account credited to a lights of the same national elite the presidency the get go to which he detailed a high ranking Nigerian public till has been subjected since 2015? Nuhu Ribadu (DSP)- not the Nuhu Ribadu we took recourse to the Abacha playbook and offi cial of the presidency as liaison offi cer. Where is the logic in appointing the Director know as retired AIG. The claim was made that roadmap. A phantom coup plot in the Tragically, Nigeria has trodden this path of Finance to the probity-challenged Managing in anticipation of President Goodluck Jonathan making was quickly invented as the sword before and this development would have struck Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority as steamrolling his way to spurious victory in of Damocles against an emergent national a sense of de javu for the convener. Under acting managing director upon the latter’s the 2015 presidential election “2,000 Fulani consensus on the way forward. According the military dictatorship of late General Sani suspension? How would this chief executive fi ghters were brought in from Mali, Senegal, to the blustering spokesman, Femi Adesina Abacha, the contrivance and orchestration of have stolen any money without the complicity Niger Republic, Chad, Libya to name but “The Department of State Services (DSS), on phantom coups became the choice weapon for of her exchequer? Given the unprecedented a few. Further 4,000 fi ghters were stationed Sunday alerted on sinister moves by misguided silencing opposition and terrorising the nation. nepotism and tribalism in appointments to the in Niger and Chad on standby.” to unleash elements to wreak havoc on the government, This Abacha regime trademark bespeaks a so-called lucrative MDAs, what is the body terror and render Nigeria ungovernable. It then sovereignty and corporate existence of the primitive and callous mindset and signifi es the language being remitted to these appointees transpired that Jonathan refrained from acting country. Championed by some disgruntled absence of a legitimate and nationally plausible other than taking a cue from the see no evil, to this expectation and conceded victory to his religious and past political leaders, the intention exit strategy. It is a syndrome of a loss of grip hear no evil disposition of the president towards opponent- thus creating the headache of what is to eventually throw the country into a and initiative on legitimate governance by the the Abacha precedent. What a self-fulfi lling to do with the recruited Fulani insurgents. In tailspin, which would compel a forceful and incumbent power. It is not an excuse but at prophet President Buhari has become in his dire the circumstance, the employers chose to look undemocratic change of leadership. Further least Abacha neither seek nor obtain the consent premonition that corruption will kill Nigeria the other way and abandoned the mercenaries unimpeachable evidence shows that these of Nigerians to become president and owes if Nigeria does not kill corruption. to their fate-who then morphed into a Fulani disruptive elements are now recruiting the no constitutional obligation to account for his Other signifi cant companion warnings which army of occupation in sundry Nigerian locations. leadership of some ethnic groups and politicians deeds and misdeeds. He bludgeoned and shot Nigerians ignored to their utmost peril bears The rest, as they say, is history. around the country, with the intention of his way to power and held the rest of us to repetition “I will continue to show openly and Without a consensual and corrective response convening some sort of conference, where a ransom. The critical albatross on his neck was inside me the total commitment to the Sharia to all these nation demolition challenges, it vote of no confi dence would be passed on the that his intervention was a preemptive coup movement all over Nigeria”. “The declaration of is in hope rather than expectation that there President, thus throwing the land into further against a popularly elected president and the state of emergency in the three Northern states will be a presidential election come 2023. At turmoil. Nigerians have opted for democratic reintroduction of civil democratic rule. Being to fi ght Boko Haram is an injustice against the the moment, I’m unable to see the conducive rule, and the only acceptable way to change a of little enlightened inhibition, groomed and North”. In the light of these brazen pseudo atmosphere that will guarantee the realisation of democratically elected government is through grounded in the ideological school of the balance religious parochial outbursts, it is clear that this objective. Reinforcing the political quagmire elections, which hold at prescribed times in is the independent variable of economic the country. Any other way is patently illegal determinism. The prevailing regime of dire and even treasonable. Of course, such would economic straits is negatively universalising and attract the necessary consequences”. will exacerbate rather than mitigate the political I don’t know for certain those the presidency Without a consensual and corrective crisis-thus creating a perfect storm scenario. I had in mind when it bellowed this typically was therefore taken aback at the level of political vacuous allegation but I’m privy to efforts response to all these nation demolition incompetence that precluded this government being made by eminent Nigerians to hold a from seeing the utility in collaborating rather than conference on the state of the nation with a view challenges, it is in hope rather than demonising the coming together of status quo to generating and forwarding a constitutional stalwarts to help fashion a plausible exit strategy. review bill to the national assembly. Pray, how expectation that there will be a To be sure there is really no viable alternative does following the stipulated democratic to the option of restoration of federalism aka procedure for seeking constitutional amendment presidential election come 2023. At the constitutional restructuring. And I can put it amount to plotting coup? Is it really plausible no better than the grieving General Overseer for the likes of General Yakubu Gowon, former moment, I’m unable to see the conducive of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, President , Sultan Sa’ad the highly respected Pastor Enoch Adeboye Abubakar, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, atmosphere that will guarantee the (please accept my condolences sir) when he General , Cardinal Onaiyekan, posed the equation as restructuring or break Professor Wole Soyinka, Professor Anya O Anya, realisation of this objective. Reinforcing up. It will take the affl iction of a virulent Obi of Onitsha, Dr Edmund Dakoru, Chief Afe variant of political obtuseness for anyone to Babalola and prominent sociopolitical groups the political quagmire is the independent believe otherwise- the kind that purports to including Afenifere, Northern Elders’ Forum, reduce the Nigerian crisis to the depredations PANDEF, Ohanaeze and the Middle Belt Forum variable of economic determinism of climate change! Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja . All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, Lagos. EMAIL: [email protected], [email protected]. TELEPHONE Lagos: 0802 2924721-2, 08022924485. Abuja: Tel: 08155555292, 08155555929 24/7 ADVERTISING HOT LINES: 0811 181 3085 0811 181 3086, 0811 181 3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811 181 3089, 0811 181 3090. ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: [email protected]