FG Exceeding Borrowing Threshold for 2021, Says Ahmed Defends suspension of Twitter’s operations Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja admitted that the federal the fall in oil prices. to heighten, worsened by the economy. non-essential expenditures and government is exceeding In an interview with France an inadequate supply of She stated that the fiscal providing resources where they Minister of Finance, Budget its borrowing plan for 2021, 24, monitored by THISDAY foreign exchange, adding space remains tight now, are most needed like in the and National Planning, Mrs. blaming the development on yesterday, the minister said that the problems have a but the federal government Zainab Ahmed, yesterday the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation had continuedlot of multiplier effects on is re-planning, cutting down Continued on page 8

Central Bank Plans Digital Currency Launch by December... Page 6

Friday 11 June, 2021 Vol 26. No 9559. Price: N250

www.thisdaylive.com T RU N TH & REASO Buhari Approves More Personnel, Salary Increase for Police Force In ARISE NEWS exclusive interview, president orders security agencies to be ruthless (Lead story on page 8, full interview on pages 40, 41) 2 FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 • THISDAY 3 4 FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY, ͹͹˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY 5

Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike NEWS Email [email protected], 08066066268 Pompeo Tackles FG, Says 1,500 Christians Killed in 2021 Ejiofor Alike is snuffed out before it becomes He said he had personally the “Nigerian government declaring the brutal policies of these ongoing tragedies. What even worse.” met with Christian Nigerian was tolerating the systematic, the Chinese Communist Party is happening to Christians The immediate past United According to him, every leaders and heard their tragic ongoing, egregious violations toward Uyghur Muslims in in warrants serious States Secretary of State, Mr. single day in Nigeria, Christians stories of those who had been of the religious freedom of Xinjiang as genocidal. action. America has always Mike Pompeo, has said that are not allowed their right to persecuted because of their its people, allowing them to “Unfortunately, the tragedy stood as a beacon for freedom, no fewer than 1,500 Christians religious freedom, and are faith. suffer at the hands of radical in Nigeria persists,” he added. and we can only back up have been killed in Nigeria being murdered because of Pompeo stated that during Islamic terror.” Pompeo said the ACLJ was that responsibility if we take since the beginning of 2021, their faith in Jesus. the Trump administration took Pompeo said the designation actively engaged in the effort to seriously our obligation to while others are being held He said no society that the important first steps toward signaled to the Nigerian raise awareness of and demand stand up for the rights of hostage. denied its people the right dealing with this serious issue government that swift action action regarding the ongoing religious believers around the Pompeo, who is also to worship according to their in December 2020, when it on their part was needed to atrocities committed against world. American civil society a former Director of the beliefs, or that allowed that added Nigeria to the State end the persecution, or there Christians in Nigeria. and the American government Central Intelligence Agency, right to come under attack Department’s “Countries of would be further consequences The ACLJ, according to need to hold the Nigerian (CIA), in an article titled, without consequence could Particular Concern” (CPC) list. in the form of sanctions and him, has filed its 18th written government accountable for ‘The Persecution of Christians claim to be truly good. He said the work done by increased diplomatic pressure. submission and made critical its inaction in allowing terrorist in Nigeria Demands Our Pompeo said: “Where the ACLJ was informative for According to him, such oral interventions at the UN organisations like Boko Haram Attention,’ which was religious freedom is denied the State Department when a designation was part Human Rights Council to fester in their nation. published by the American or ignored, you can be sure it began to evaluate whether of the broader Trump regarding the plight of "If the problem is allowed Centre for Law and Justice that tyranny and oppression or not to designate Nigeria administration’s approach Christians in Nigeria. to persist, it will only spread (ACLJ) on Wednesday, accused are soon to follow. That is as a CPC. to take seriously violations He said: “I’m eager to and become worse throughout the federal government of why a foreign policy that takes He said the team at the State of religious freedom around engage in this work with them Africa and around the world. not doing enough to protect seriously the issue of ensuring Department recognised that the world, which also included as we seek to put a stop to The killing must end.” religious freedom. religious freedom around the He said the Nigerian world is critical to serving government had downplayed America’s interests. It is why the attacks on Christians, by the ongoing persecution and characterising them as conflicts martyrdom of Christians in between herders and farmers Nigeria demands our attention rather than as religiously and action.” motivated acts of terror. He said in 2018, 110 “At least 1,500 Christians schoolgirls were kidnapped have already been killed in by Boko Haram, and when a Nigeria during 2021, and even deal was sealed to free most more, have been kidnapped of the girls, only one was held and are either being held back, Leah Sharibu. hostage or trafficked. The “This unbelievably brave and attacks are brutal. Armed faithful girl refused to renounce radical Islamic groups arrive her faith as a Christian; and in a village during the night, for that reason, Boko Haram kill the men, rape and murder refused to release her and the women, and kidnap condemned her to slavery. the children. The Nigerian Three years later, she is still government thus far has being held as a slave by this sought to downplay the cowardly terrorist cell in attacks, characterising them North-east Nigeria,” he said. as conflicts between herders Pompeo described Sharibu’s and farmers rather than as story as tragic, infuriating, and religiously motivated acts of emblematic of a troubling trend terror,” he said. of Christian persecution in He urged the federal Nigeria. government to hold terrorists Citing Open Doors’ Country accountable for such Report, Pompeo said more characterisations. Christians were murdered for He stated that since “Nigeria their faith in Nigeria than in has the largest Christian any other country in the world. population of any African According to him, the SECURING ... country – over 80 million, number of Christians murdered L-R: Commissioner of Police, Command, Mr. Hakeem Odumosu; Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Assistant nearly half of its people – it in Nigeria increased by 60 per Inspector-General in-charge of Zone 2, Mr. Johnson Kokumo; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Inspector-General of is essential that this persecution cent in 2020. Police, Mr. Alkali Usman, during the donation of security equipment to the police by the governor in Lagos…yesterday NNPC Decries Rise in Smuggling of Petroleum Products Peter Uzoho Kyari, in a statement by movements of white products. declined to comment. of conduct procedures with accountability, published its the Group General Manager, THISDAY had reported Kyari also said at yesterday's consequence management. Audited Financial Statements The Nigerian National Group Public Affairs Division that the project was launched hearing that the corporation We have established regulatory for 2018 and 2019. We are going Petroleum Corporation of NNPC, Dr Kennie Obateru, separately in Abuja and Lagos was championing the fight compliant governance charter to publish that of 2020. (NNPC) yesterday raised the also said the corporation, in at the time and members of against corruption in the oil and transparency policy, this is "The AFS is the only alarm over the continuous collaboration with securitly the monitoring team were and gas industry by emplacing a mark of our compliance to document that tells how a rise in the smuggling of agencies, had reduced pipeline drawn from the NNPC, measures to curb graft across the anti-corruption strategy.” company does its transaction. petroleum products, despite vandalism to four per cent Department of Petroleum its various business portfolios Kyari stated that the We are happy that by the time the establishment of the nationwide. Resources (DPR), Petroleum and by enlisting as a partner corporation has automated the 2020 AFS will be published, ‘Operation White’ initiative In an effort to tackle the Equalisation Fund (PEF), company of the Extractive its business operations thereby Nigerians will see the dividends by the federal government smuggling of petroleum Petroleum Products Pricing Industries Transparency reducing opportunities for of our accountability. Mr. to check smuggling. products and end the Regulatory Authority (PPPRA) Initiative (EITI). discretion to the barest Chairman, no national oil The Group Managing attendant losses to the country, and the Department of State According to him, the minimum as part of measures company does what we are Director of NNPC, Mallam the Ministry of Petroleum Security (DSS). corporation, as part of its to promote an institutional doing today,” Kyari said. Mele Kyari, in a presentation Resources, in October 2019, The ministry mandated commitment to the war framework for entrenching The statement said the yesterday at the hearing of had established what it termed NNPC to drive the project. against corruption has set up the culture of transparency Senate commended the the Senate Committee on as "Operation White', with a But nearly two years after processes and structures that in its operations. NNPC for its efforts towards Anti-Corruption and Financial monitoring team drawn from the inauguration of Operation are irreversible, to ensure He added that the entrenching transparency and Crimes, in Abuja, said the five agencies of government. White, nothing has been heard transparency and accountability. corporation, on its own, has stamping out corruption from smuggling of petroleum Operation White, according about the initiative. He said: “We have created reported several infractions such its system. products had become a to the ministry, was a NNPC's alarm yesterday an anti-corruption desk in as products diversion and crude The Chairman of the Senate national challenge that must transparency initiative aimed raises the question as to NNPC that engages the oil theft to the police, the EFCC Committee on Anti-Corruption be addressed urgently to stem at tracking importation and whether the initiative is Economic and Financial Crimes and other investigating agencies and Financial Crimes, Senator the huge loss to the nation. distribution of petroleum actually working or had Commission (EFCC) and other of the federal government to Suleiman Abdu Kwari, said it The hearing was to assess products in and out of the collapsed after the launch. anti-corruption agencies on a stem corruption in the oil and was heartwarming to learn that the level of implementation of country to check smuggling THISDAY had made efforts regular basis. gas industry. the NNPC was making great the National Anti-Corruption and diversion of products and to get reactions from the NNPC, "The desk ensures that For the first time in 43 years, strides towards profitability and Strategy by government to stop economic loss to the DPR, and the PPPRA on the in all our operations, every NNPC, as a part of the evolving urged the corporation to sustain agencies and parastatals. nation arising from such illicit progress made so far but they staff complies to the code culture of transparency and the gains. 6 FRIDAY, ͹͹˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY NEWS CBN Plans Digital Currency Launch by December Obinna Chima Technology, CBN, Ms. Rakiya The planned launch is coming for the launch and by the end innovation, adding that the forex availability always and Mohammed, said yesterday, about six months after the CBN of the year, we should have the central bank has a “very clear anybody who wants to buy The Central Bank of Nigeria during a virtual media briefing at barred deposit money banks and digital currency.” roadmap on this and we are forex for BTA, PTA, medicals, (CBN) has unveiled plans to the end of a Bankers Committee all other financial institutions According to her, about 80 per about to move to the next stage students’ fees, and others should launch a digital currency before meeting that also held virtually from any virtual currency cent of central banks across the of a proof of consent after which be made to get them so that December. that the digital currency would transaction. world are presently exploring we would start a pilot.” Nigerians would not resort to The Director, Information be accessible to all Nigerians. The CBN, in a circular by the possibility of issuing the Also speaking at the media the parallel market,” she stated. its Director of Financial Policy central bank’s digital currency, briefing, the Managing Director/ She said the central bank and Regulation Department, Mr. saying that Nigeria cannot be CEO, Access Bank Plc, Herbert assured bankers that BDCs Kevin Amugo, said deposit left behind. Wigwe, said the central bank would continue to have their US Demands Reversal money banks and other financial Shedding more light on planned to introduce what he weekly allocations, and the institutions were being barred the implication of the digital termed local card scheme. banks would have additional of Twitter’s Suspension because payments and exchanges currency, Mohammed said: “You According to him, the allocations. using cryptocurrency were are aware that we have two initiative would ensure that “The essence is to ensure that untraceable and anonymous, forms of fiat money: The notes all card schemes are registered all the touchpoints where Nigeria Says action has no place in making them susceptible to and the coins. So, the central locally. needs legitimate forex are met. abuse by criminals, especially bank's digital currency is the “The whole idea is that if The whole idea is to ensure that democracy FG migrates to Koo, in money laundering and third form of fiat money. So, the card schemes are registered the pressure on forex rates is terrorism cases. this digital money is going to locally, payment would terminate reduced,” she said. Indian microblogging platform But Mohammed added that complement the cash and note locally and it would enhance the In his contribution, Chiemelie Ezeobi in Lagos and NBC to continue operating in just like everybody has access that we have. efficiency of the local payment Managing Director, Ecobank Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja the country. to cash, everyone would also “The central bank digital system. It will also minimise the Nigeria Limited, Mr. Patrick It also rolled out conditions have access to the central bank’s currency will just be as good amount of money that banks Akinwuntan, said: “As the The United States yesterday that Twitter must fulfill before digital currency. as you having cash in your and other institutions pay when economy is being powered to kicked against the suspension of the suspension of its operations She said: “Let me state pocket. So, if you are having you use foreign cards and help grow post-COVID-19, SMEs Twitter’s operations by the federal in Nigeria could be lifted, saying categorically that cryptocurrency the currency in your pocket, conserve foreign currency. continue to be of critical government and demanded an that the platform was suspended such as Bitcoin and the rest of you are as good as having cash “So, card schemes, local and relevance. If you look at the immediate reversal. because it provided an avenue for them are not under the control on your phone. international are advised to be growth recorded in our GDP, The suspension has forced the people threatening the corporate of the central bank; they are “Now, why did we need to registered locally. That way, the the non-oil sector, which is in federal government and some existence of Nigeria. purely private decisions that go into this? There are different overall efficiency of the local the agric space, the SME space, agencies of government to move Minister of Information and individuals make and are not cases that the central bank is payment system would be contributed significantly to that to Koo, an Indian microblogging Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, part of this arrangement. looking at. For instance, we have enhanced,” he said. growth. platform, to keep in touch with had on Wednesday accused “We have spent over two remittances, which is a huge His counterpart at Fidelity “And as part of diversifying the public. Twitter founder, Mr. Jack years studying this concept of market in Africa. We also know Bank Plc, Mrs. Nneka Onyeali- our economy and to create In a statement by the Dorsey, of helping to fund last central bank’s digital currency that in the last EFInA report, Ikpe, said the Bankers' employment as well as for spokesman of the US Department October’s #EndSARS protest and we have identified the risks. our target for this year was to Committee discussed how SMEs to be able to thrive post- of State, Ned Price, the Joe while allowing the leader of the And it is one of the reasons achieve 80 per cent financial the central bank would ensure COVID-19, there is a need to Biden administration expressed proscribed Indigenous People of why I said we are setting up inclusion. We are about 60 per availability of forex during continue to assure the availability concern about the plan to curb Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, a central governance structure cent and at the rate we are going, summer and the return of of forex to meet the needs of the freedom of expression of use the platform to call for the that would involve all industry it is unlikely we would meet students to schools in September. SMEs. All banks have been told Nigerians. killing of policemen. stakeholders to access all the this target. But the central bank “These are pressure points to ensure that all demand for According to the government, Alleging that Twitter failed to risks as we continue on this digital currency would accelerate normally for forex and it has forex are met and the central freedom of expression and access take down Kanu’s tweets despite journey. this target.” been observed that rates are bank reiterated its willingness to information, both online and repeated requests to do so, he “Very soon we would make She said it would support going up. The CBN said all the to support the functioning of offline, are foundational to listed conditions that must be an announcement on the date the cashless policy as well as banks must make sure there is SMEs.” prosperous and secure democratic met even if there is a discussion societies. with Twitter to include that it It stated: “Unduly restricting must now be registered in Nigeria the ability of Nigerians to report, as a business concern. gather, and disseminate opinions The federal government had and information has no place a suspended access to the site democracy. after Twitter removed a tweet “The United States condemns by Buhari, in which he was the ongoing suspension of Twitter alleged to have threatened a by the Nigerian government and section of the country, which subsequent threats to arrest and the microblogging site said went prosecute Nigerians who use against its community rules. Twitter. “The United States is FG Joins Koo, Indian likewise concerned that the Microblogging Nigerian National Broadcasting Commission ordered all television Platform and radio broadcasters to cease using Twitter. Meanwhile, barely a week after ‘‘We support Nigeria as it banning Twitter, the federal works towards unity peace and government has joined Koo, prosperity. As its partner, we call another platform built by India. on the government to respect It has already opened an its citizens' right to freedom of official account on the platform expression by reversing this with the handle @nigeriagov and suspension.” had above 10,000 followers as The federal government had of press time. in furtherance of the suspension, Also, some aides of the insisted that all Over The Top government have opened (OTT) platforms, such as accounts on the app. Facebook, WhatsApp, and According to reports, Koo Instagram, must register with was built after the Indian ERELU OF IRULAND... the Corporate Affairs Commission government's constant Former President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki (left), and his wife, Princess Toyin, during Toyin’s coronation as the Erelu disagreements with Twitter. (CAC) and be licensed by the Bobajiro of Iruland, the Oniru of Iruland, Oba Gbolahan Lawal in Oniru, Lagos State…yesterday Nigeria, Togo Others to Save $58bn from Transnational Power Project Project set for Q3,2023 completion date Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja that it will also involve infrastructure shall be handed Describing the project as a power sector of West Africa,” Zabori and Niamey and from the electrification of rural over to the utility companies of game changer that could shape he noted. Zabori to Malanville with five When completed, the ongoing communities located within a the participating countries on the energy landscape of the He said that despite COVID-19 associated processing stations to 330KV West African North-Core 5km radius on both sides of the completion, Mamman added. sub-region through effective interruption, the project has enable and strengthen electricity interconnection transmission line, and the implementation of He emphasised that the and efficient power trade, made considerable progress, exchanges between the countries line will save West African several environmental and social limited access to electricity the minister stated that it is stressing that the opening and concerned. countries about $58 billion mitigation measures. as well as the endemic considered as one of the priority evaluation of the bids for the He said that the project is in annual energy spending, According to him, it will electricity shortages constitute a projects in the infrastructure substations are planned to be being implemented according Minister of Power, Saleh further include, among bottleneck to the socio-economic programme of the WAPP, aimed completed by the end of July to the new model of institutional Mamman, has said. others, the implementation development of member states, at facilitating efficient energy 2021. framework for implementation Speaking at the first session of resettlement action plans stressing that two-thirds of sub- trade in the area. According to him, contract developed by the WAPP and of the joint ministerial steering to provide compensation for Saharan Africa, approximately “The World Bank estimates negotiations have already started the countries concerned. committee of the West African persons and communities 600 million people, is without that power trade within the while potential Engineering Despite some difficulties Power Pool (WAPP) in Abuja, affected by the project. access to electricity, despite the WAPP could lead to cost savings Procurement and Construction encountered, he said the Mamman stated that the project The project is jointly funded region’s natural resources. of $58.0 billion per year, enabling (EPC) contracting for the prequalification of construction would involve the construction by the African Development The lack of reliable and covered countries to benefit from transmission lines will be companies for transmission lines of approximately 875 km of Bank (AfDB), Agence Française affordable electricity, the minister more cost-effective hydro or completed in time for the start and substations; review of tender 330 kV and 24 km 225 kV de Développement (AFD), the said, significantly constrains gas-based imports. of construction by August 2021. documents for transmission lines transmission lines from Nigeria World Bank (WB) and the federal economic activity and growth “ I am fully confident that In his remarks, the Secretary and substations and launch to Togo, Niger Republic and government at a total cost of in the countries and affects the completion of this project, General of WAPP, Apollinaire of bidding documents for the Benin Republic with associated $568 million. disproportionally the poorest in the 3rd quarter of 2023, will Ki, noted that the transmission construction of transmission lines substations. The operation and segment of the population of come as a sustainable solution lines will stretch from Birnin and substations had already been The minister explained maintenance of the entire the sub-region. and major contributor to the Kebbi to Ouagadougou via completed. FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 • THISDAY 7 8 FRIDAY, ͹͹˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY PAGE EIGHT Sanwo-Olu Asks Security Agencies to Crush Criminals Donates hardware to the police Lagos State Government boosting the morale of the are not achieved. They seek to install the 2,000 surveillance the Lagos- Railway line and partnered with the dtate has tightened the noose on police, and enhance their to demoralise and destabilise cameras connected to fibre commissioned by the president government in its ongoing criminal elements, as Governor capacity to fight crime and the police and other law optic network. remained the most momentous battle to quell the upsurge Babajide Sanwo-Olu fortifies combat criminality. enforcement agents, but The governor vowed to any federal government has of crime and insecurity. It the armoury of the State Police Sanwo-Olu said the we will continue to boldly make Lagos inhospitable for made in the state. is my hope that this public- Command with new hardware investment in the security proclaim, ‘Not on our watch! criminals and traffic robbers, President Buhari praised private sector partnership will and gadgets. gadgets was timely, given the “Today, Lagos State charging the police not to spare Sanwo-Olu for the investment, be an example to others to One hundred and fifty units setback recorded in security Government is handing over anyone found wanting for saying the governor had demonstrate similar acts of of double cabin vehicles, 30 operations occasioned by brand new crime-fighting armed robbery, kidnapping, shown a true resilient spirit generosity and responsibility.” patrol saloon cars, four high- the coordinated violence equipment to the State Police cultism, and banditry. in the face of the massive The IG commended the capacity troop carriers and that followed the #EndSARS Command as our own way He said: “State government, destruction Lagos suffered Lagos State government for two anti-riot water cannon protests, last October. of assisting the Police Force in conjunction with the local last October. the gesture, describing Sanwo- vehicles are part of the crime- The State’s Police Command, to rebuild, after the violence government, has expended Buhari said the governor Olu as “a security-conscious” fighting equipment donated the governor said, suffered and massive destruction that enormous resources on the did not allow himself to be Governor. The police boss said to the police, yesterday, by losses in infrastructure and followed the #EndSARS crime-fighting equipment and deterred by the severe setback the donation was a game the Lagos Government to logistics, while the morale of protests last October. We other apparatus being handed instead had started to boldly changer in strengthening strengthen security responses the personnel dropped as a are determined to stabilise over today. I urge the police to rebuilding the confidence of security in the Southwest across the state. result of the impact. the security situation in do everything in their power residents and investors in the region. President Muhammadu Since then, the governor Lagos State, as our own to ensure that these assets state. Other gadgets donated by Buhari took inventory and pointed out that Lagos had contribution towards lasting are handled with care and a He also acknowledged the the Sanwo-Olu Government inaugurated the security felt the negative effects of national security.” sense of true ownership and ‘Rebuild Lagos’ initiative to the police include two equipment before Governor the loophole in security In addition to the supply responsibility, so that the gears kick-started to replace assets Armored Personnel Carriers Sanwo-Olu handed over the architecture, accounting for of hardware to the police and can last long and maximally torched by arsonists in the (APCs), 200 security patrol gears to the Inspector-General a rising wave of criminal other security agencies, Sanwo- deliver the intended outcome, wake of violence, describing bikes, 1,000 units of ballistic of Police (IG), Mr. Alkali activities by hoodlums Olu said Lagos Government which is sustained security in the move as “very laudable”. vests, 1,000 ballistic helmets, Usman, for the use of Lagos seeking to take advantage had been building capability Lagos.” He enjoined other state 1,000 handheld walkie Police Command. of the vulnerability. in cutting-edge security Sanwo-Olu used the governments to emulate talkies, office furniture, and The equipment and gadgets He said: “No society can technology in line with his occasion to, again, make Lagos’ “bold and proactive other ancillary resources. were procured through the survive without a motivated administration’s Security and a request for a “Special actions”. While in Lagos, President Lagos State Security Trust and well-equipped Police Governance pillar, which seeks Economic Status” for Lagos The president said: “Let Buhari, joined by Governor Fund (LSSTF) - an autonomous Force. Hoodlums and to transform the state into the in order to bolster the State’s me commend Lagos State for Sanwo-Olu also commissioned agency that partners the criminals know this, hence 21st century economy. capacity and efficiency in what it is doing in the areas the 156Km Lagos-Ibadan private sector and individuals the relentless attacks on The governor said the state managing critical infrastructure of reinforcement and support Standard Gauge Rail, and to provide vital support to police installations nationwide. government had started the servicing the national economy. for the security agencies in the Deep Blue Security Assets security agencies. It is our responsibility as phased rollout of security The governor thanked the state. I also commend all the Project to secure the nation’s Buhari said the equipment government to ensure that cameras across the metropolis, President for infrastructure private sector partners who Exclusive Economic Zone would go a long way in criminals’ nefarious aims stating that the objective was projects sited in Lagos, saying have risen up to the challenge (EEZ) and The Gulf of Guinea. BUHARI APPROVES MORE PERSONNEL, SALARY INCREASE FOR POLICE FORCE Our Correspondents North-west, same people, were lopsided as they did not earned. There are people who join APC,” he said. Republic. We want them to same culture, killing each reflect federal character, Buhari have been there for 10 to 15 Buhari added that the come through Nigeria. We He stated that the removal other, stealing each other’s said he could not be forced to years. When you join, you go controversial railway to the hope that they will send of service chiefs and the cattle, burning their villages. appoint unqualified people. through the programme and Niger Republic will be of through Maradi all their appointment of officers, who "As I said, we are going to He added: "You're saying you rise through the system." immense economic benefits exports, through Nigeria rather have been at the theatre of treat them in the language someone who has gone The president also to Nigeria. than through Benin Republic. operation and command the they understand. We have through military and police downplayed the concerns When completed, he said, “With the roads and the respect of fellow soldiers will given the military and the training all his life should over which region will produce Nigeria would benefit from railways working, those from ease the insecurity in the police power to be ruthless not be appointed to lead the his successor, saying his party, the import and export trades Maiduguri to Port Harcourt, country. and you watch it, in a few military or police department the All Progressives Congress of Niger Republic, which those from Kano to Lagos and He described the security weeks’ time there will be a he works with just because we (APC), has the final say on currently go through Benin so on, definitely, if you make situation in the North-east and difference- because we told must balance appointments? whether his successor will Republic. the infrastructure, road, rail, North-west as overwhelming. them, ‘if we keep people away What are you saying? The emerge from the South or “How many rail routes work, I can assure you that However, he said the from their farm, we are going system didn't restrict anyone the North. do you have? You have to Nigerians will keep themselves government was on top of to starve and the government from joining the military or According to him, the cultivate our neighbours. If you very busy and they will leave the situation, adding that cannot control the public.’ the police, and if you decided APC’s recently concluded don't, you will be in trouble. you alone. bandits are now being treated "If you allow hunger to not to join, we will not force membership registration is If you could recall, when I "But when the roads are not as criminals and are currently permeate the whole society, you, but you too will not force designed to rid the party of came on board, I had to go to working, the roads are virtually suffering heavy casualties but the government will be in us to bring someone who is godfathers and give members Chad, Niger, and Cameroon, crippled, people will have so are unwilling to admit it for trouble and we don’t want not qualified in training and across board a say in the party. which was what happened much time to harass you,” he fear of losing their recruitment to be in trouble. We are already experience when it comes to “We should allow the party with Boko Haram. If we were stated. constituency. in enough trouble. I can assure leadership of these institutions to decide. I have just told you not on good terms with the On how he will spend his He said: “Try and appreciate you that sooner than later you just because we want to that we have started from the three countries, Boko Haram time after his presidency in what the federal government will see the difference.” balance some appointments..." bottom-up and I gave the would have done worst things 2023, Buhari said he would has done. One, we have The president reiterated his On the appointment of acting chairman the end of to us than this. About Niger, retire to his farm. removed all the service chiefs commitment to go after the Chief of Army Staff, Maj. June to submit a report on the our border with Niger is about “I have never avoided and the Inspector-General of Indigenous People of Biafra Gen. Farouk Yahaya, Buhari convention we are going to 1,400 kilometres. On Niger, my farm. I still have got a Police; made new ones. We (IPOB) and the Eastern Security stated that he could not conduct and then arrange the I have to tell you this: the number of cattle. When I allowed them to go round and Network (ESN) by treating just pick anybody because general election, all elections Europeans in 1885 sat down leave, I will still, go to my see the problem. They have them in the language they of seniority, adding that he till 2023. We have started this with ruler and pencil and drew farm daily. I will try and been part of it all the time understand. appointed someone who has from the bottom up so that lines and I say I have first but now they are in charge He added: "I said it, and we been in the military, worked members of the party will feel cousins in Niger Republic. Continued on page 10 and we made sure that their will do it. My statement about and fought with the soldiers, they are involved in decision There are Kanuris, there are priority is to make sure they speaking the language (they and is well known to them. making. Nobody is just going Hausas, there are Fulanis in bring normalcy. They have to understand) is very simple. It He said: "When you look to sit in Lagos and tell them Niger Republic, just as there accept the responsibility of is meant for all criminals in at NNPC, military, the people what to do. This is what we are Yorubas in Republic of their offices and perform. We Nigeria. What it means for who have been there for 18 are arranging. Benin. You can't absolutely are working very hard on this the IPOB is that I will go after years or 10 years, trained in “Succession plan depends on cut them off. but we cannot give it much them through the military and Zaria, or . They the party. We are going to leave “But the rail, look at the publicity so that we can take police and rid them of their came through the ranks and that to the party. The party will plan, if you watch the plan and TOP GAINERS NGN NGN % the criminals unawares. criminal tendencies. I have no because they served under all sit and make a decision by the why we are constructing the LINKASSURE 0.05 0.60 9.0 “The problem in the North- regrets whatsoever....." the circumstances and they constituencies that they won railway. Niger has discovered PZ 0.40 6.00 7.1 east and the South-south we On allegation that his gradually rise to that status. and so on. So, those who want oil as you know and we don't understand them, but the appointments of service chiefs Those positions have to be to be president, they better want them to go through Benin MAYBAKER 0.20 4.20 5.0 CHAMSPLC 0.01 0.21 5.0 FG EXCEEDING BORROWING THRESHOLD FOR 2021, SAYS AHMED UNILEVER 0.60 12.70 4.9 health sector. that we shouldn't borrow government’s suspension of "not something that we vaccinate 70 per cent of its TOP LOSERS NGN % Ahmed described as more than 3 per cent of Gross Twitter’s operations, she said take lightly," and that the population by next year. disturbing a World Bank Domestic Product (GDP), now it won't affect Nigeria’s image, government had planned The country’s economy CWG 0.12 1.13 9.6 report, which put a large we are at about 4 per cent of as no foreign body should talks with the social media went into recession in 2020, CHIPLC 0.07 0.71 8.9 portion of Nigerians under GDP and that's a target that be allowed to cause war in company over the issue. largely due to a drop in oil ABCTRANS 0.03 0.37 7.5 the poverty line, saying it we are trying to work on and the country. The minister identified prices, but Ahmed hoped for was caused largely by the bring down,” she said. “You cannot shut out the accessing available doses as a strong upsurge in growth CORONATION 0.04 0.55 6.7 COVID-19 pandemic and On the revenue side, she president of a country and the biggest challenge facing by the end of the year. MBENEFITS 0.03 0.43 6.5 fall in oil prices. stated that the target is to not expect consequences,” the country's COVID-19 The government is planning HPE Nestle Nig Plc ₦1,420.00 However, she said the move revenue to GDP from the minister added. vaccination programme. to create jobs with massive economic sustainability the current 8 per cent to 15 She described the Nigeria has so far only new investment in public Volume: 158.366 million shares plan was targeting massive per cent, adding that the 8 suspension of Twitter as a received four million of the works and low-cost housing, Value: N2.24 billion recruitment, health insurance, per cent is low for the size of well-thought-out decision, 43 million vaccines it was she said, while the extra and a review of the poverty the Nigerian economy. saying it shouldn't affect the promised by the Covax spending would be funded Deals: 3,330 indices, to redress the setback Speaking on the ease of country's image in the eyes of programme, according to by increasing tax revenue As at yesterday 10/6/2021 COVID-19. doing business, against the international investors. the minister, who said the and improving tax collection “Our fiscal threshold was backdrop of the federal She said the move was government expected to process. See details on Page 39 FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 • THISDAY 9 10 FRIDAY, ͹͹˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY NEWS Obasanjo, Abdulsalami, Sultan, Ooni, Others Weigh Options to Tackle Insecurity To meet Buhari Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja resolved to seek audience Catholic Archdiocese, John Some of them who were communiqué later," he said. the communiqué." with President Muhammadu Cardinal Onaiyekan, who pressured to speak merely When asked when the However, the President Eminent Nigerians, including Buhari, to pass to him their with the sultan were the said the agenda was centred leaders will meet Buhari to of Nigeria Labour Congress former President Olusegun suggestions on how to tackle conveners of the meeting. around insecurity bedeviling further discuss the insecurity (NLC), Ayuba Wabba, was Obasanjo and former the challenges facing the Other prominent leaders the country. crisis, Ogbeh said it would more forthcoming on their military Head of State, Gen. nation. that attended the meeting A former Minister of be soon, but no exact date deliberations. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), The meeting, which was were a leader of the South- Agriculture and former was decided yet. He said: "It was a very met in Abuja yesterday to find convened under the auspices south, Chief Edwin Clark and Chairman of the Peoples Onaiyekan also said the fruitful meeting all geared solutions to the insecurity and of the Interfaith Initiative for Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Democratic Party (PDP), Chief meeting, among others, towards making sure that all distrust among the people Peace was also attended by Abubakar. Audu Ogbeh, told journalists looked into the issue of the challenges we are passing that's driving secessionist the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji At the end of the meeting, that the meeting discussed insecurity in the country. through are addressed. Issues agitations. Sa'ad Abubakar; Ooni of , the leaders left the venue things that will be for the When asked to give more of insecurity in the country Although details of the Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; without disclosing their goodness of the country. details on the proceedings was key on the agenda and it nine-hour meeting, held President of the Ohanaeze- resolutions. "We discussed things that at the meeting, Onaiyekan was a holistic discussion that behind closed doors in Ndigbo, Ambassador George They rebuffed entreaties are for the good of Nigeria. I said: "I am not authorised covered every aspect of the Abuja were not made public, Obiozor, and Emeritus from journalists to brief them am not permitted to speak on to talk. We discussed challenges we are currently THISDAY gathered that they Archbishop of the Abuja on their decisions. the outcome, you will get the everything and you will get facing."

BUHARI APPROVES MORE PERSONNEL, SALARY INCREASE FOR POLICE FORCE keep myself busy. Between are arrested. The farmer is of Twitter in Nigeria, the is a nation on the path of poverty, unemployment, the now and then, I will keep invited to submit his claims. president deflected, saying Meanwhile, the president self-destruction.’’ downward spiral of Nigerian on convincing Nigerians The khadi or the judge will he would keep that to himself. yesterday disclosed that ‘‘As Commander-in-chief, currency and other untoward that I mean very well. I say pay this amount and if Asked if it was time for state he has directed National my primary responsibility signals." will make sure that the few you can’t the cattle is sold. police in the face of daunting Salaries, Incomes and Wages remains the security of the Ohanaeze, in a statement by identifiable problems that And if there is any benefit, security challenges facing the Commission (NSIWC) to carry country and the safety of all its National Publicity Secretary, we have, security, economy, you are given and people country, the president said out an upward review of citizens. Despite the many Chief Chiedozie Alex Ogbonnia fight against corruption, we were behaving themselves in the past the traditional salaries of policemen. challenges we are facing, I said both history and literature will continue to work on it, and in the grazing areas, they institutions were effective in The president also stated want Nigerians to rest assured had shown that the decision and as I said, visibly, we built dams, put windmills in tackling security. that 10,000 new personnel that we will secure this country. taken by a leader at a critical have made progress in the some places there were even He added that recently, are being recruited into ‘‘We will secure our juncture had a lasting effect North-east, we have made veterinary departments so that two South-west governors the force, declaring that no infrastructure, our highways, on society. progress in the South-south the herders are limited. Their visited him to complain about administration since 1999 our communities, and our It added: "President Buhari but I am overwhelmed route is known, their grazing herdsmen encroaching on was as committed as his forests, and we will secure the has a choice between dialogue almost in the North-west area is known. farmers’ land in their regions. administration in reforming lives of our people,’’ he said. on one hand and an avoidable and they are going to get “But I am telling you, this He said he told the and repositioning the Nigeria The President told members war against the Igbo on the it very soon,” he added. rushing to the centre (sic) governors that “you know Police Force and national of the Nigeria Police that as other. Again, history shows Asked what will be his so I asked for the gazette to these people more than I do, policing architecture. the government strives to that our thoughts are very legacy, he said: “I will like make sure that those who and you are democratically Buhari spoke yesterday in improve their welfare and infinitesimal to the immutable Nigerians to discuss it, I encroached on these cattle elected to protect your people. Lagos at the official launch capacity, the citizens equally law of the universe." hope they will be fair to routes and grazing areas will Don’t sit idly expecting me to of newly procured security had expectations from them. The statement said Ohanaeze me. I wouldn't like to say it be dispossessed in law and do everything, take action.” equipment, including hundreds ‘‘First let me commend the Ndigbo had followed with myself. I will like Nigerians try to bring some order back of patrol vans for the state Inspector-General of Police deep concern the security to try and spend time when into the cattle grazing.” Fighting Corruption security agencies by the and the entire Force for the sequence targeted at the we came, both the security He also condemned the in Democratic Setting Lagos State Government at recent efforts to restore peace to Igbo; namely: “The deliberate and the economy, where we reactions of the Parade Ground, Police troubled parts of the country. posting of Northern military were for the eight years I may Governor, Dr. Samuel Ortom, Difficult, Says Buhari College, Ikeja, Lagos. ‘‘I have charged the and police officers at the be around and try to look at who had accused him of Buhari also said that fighting ‘‘In 2019, I signed into law Inspector-General to leave no various strategic locations it, I hope Nigerians will be failing to take actions against corruption in a democratic the Act establishing the Nigeria stone unturned in rebuilding in the South-east, the special fair to me. This is all I need.” herdsmen because they are setting was a difficult task Police Trust Fund, the first in the morale of his officers National Security Council his Fulani kinsmen. to accomplish. the history of the Force, to and men, especially in the meeting, where major decisions Directs AGF to According to him, although According to him, the provide guaranteed funding to aftermath of the mindless were taken for the South-east Recover Land for he is a Fulani, Ortom is being war against corruption has support Police welfare, logistics violence associated with the and the South-south to the Herdsmen unfair to him. not been easy for him since and equipment. EndSARS protests, as well as utter exclusion of security He said he had told Ortom he became a democratically ‘‘In September 2020, I the recent spate of attacks on personnel from the South- On efforts by his that the herdsmen perpetrating elected president. assented to the Bill amending Police Stations in some parts east of Nigeria; the ominous administration to resolve the attacks were not Nigerians. He, however, added that his the Nigeria Police Act, which of the country,'' he said. launching of the Operation the crisis of open grazing, Buhari added that the Tivs, administration has succeeded was originally enacted in 1943. Restore Peace in the South-east which is the main driver which form the majority in in easing out corrupt public ‘‘This new Act, a vast President Has a and South-south, the Shoot-on- of farmer-herder conflict, Benue, and the Fulanis had officials without making noise improvement over the old Choice Between sight order by the Inspector Buhari said he had asked been engaged in cultural about it. one, among other things General of Police targeted conflicts for a long time. spells out the modalities War, Dialogue, Says at the Igbo youths, and the the Attorney-General of the Buhari stated that much Ohanaeze Federation and Minister of “The problem is trying to was achieved in the fight for the implementation of a shocking tweet where Mr. understand the culture of National Community Policing President stated that ‘those of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, against corruption when he Meanwhile, the pan to recover designated routes the cattle rearers. There is a was military head of state in Scheme in Nigeria. us in the fields for 30 months, cultural difference between ‘‘This new scheme will build Yoruba sociopolitical group, who went through the war, created during the First the early 80s, adding that “a lot Afenifere and the apex Igbo Republic for cattle movements. the Tivs and the Fulanis. So, of people were sent to prisons confidence within our local will treat them in the language the governor of Benue said I communities and make them sociopolitical organisation, they understand.” According to him, the land before I was also booted out.” Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in reacting will be recovered from persons am not disciplining the cattle Responding to the clamour active stakeholders in the safety According to Ohanaeze rearers because I am one of and security of their environs. to President Muhammadu Ndigbo, the agitation by who have converted cattle for devolution of powers, the Buhari’s statements during grazing routes to personal use. them. president lamented that the ‘‘We are currently recruiting IPOB became heightened due “I cannot say I am not one 10,000 new Police officers the interview, faulted his to the exclusion of the Igbo He said the grazing routes local government system position on some of the issues were designated in the First of them, but he is being very has been killed, adding that to reinforce our personnel in Buhari’s government, unfair to me and I told him capacity across the country. In he addressed. adding that the president has Republic when “Nigerians if the federal, state and local Afenifere described Buhari use to obey laws” but those that the Nigerian cattle rearer governments are operated as addition to this, I have directed not in any way hidden his was not carrying anything the National Salaries, Incomes as a person who has sheer disdain for those that failed routes had been converted. stipulated in the constitution, contempt for Nigerians and When asked if he agreed more than a stick sometimes the country won't be in a crisis and Wages Commission to to vote for him en-masse with a machete to cut some carry out an upward review of is an unrepentant tribalist. in 2015 and 2019 general with the AGF’s position that now. However, Ohanaeze the 17 Southern governors trees and feed his cattle but He said: "But the problem is Police salaries and benefits,’’ elections. those sophisticated ones move he said. Ndigbo urged him to embrace "Ohanaeze Ndigbo lacked powers to ban open the local government has been dialogue, because he has a grazing, Buhari said: “You with AK-47. virtually killed and this is not He reiterated his directive to has cautioned that the “So, from other areas, people security operatives to shoot- choice between dialogue and unprecedented lopsidedness want me to contradict my good for this country because war in the handling of the attorney-general? rush to Nigeria you know and those who became the local on-sight anyone found to be of the Nigerian government Fulanis from Mauritania and wielding AK-47 and other crisis in the South-east. in favour of the Fulani, to “What I did was ask him to government chairmen have The Ohanaeze Ndigbo asked go and dig the gazette of the Central Africa look the same. been compromised. If your assault weapons. the exclusion of other ethnic So, they feel they are the The President also vowed Buhari to use dialogue instead groups, especially in the First Republic when people local government is entitled of confrontations in tackling were obeying laws. There were Nigerian ones and I assure to receive N300 million and that his administration will act security architecture, will you that we are trying to firmly and decisively ‘‘against the challenge. rather exacerbate the internal cattle routes and grazing areas. later you are only given N100 The organisation lamented Cattle routes were for when resuscitate these cattle routes, million and the chairman will any and all persons fomenting security challenges in the grazing areas and make them or carrying out attacks on our that Nigeria has come to a country. History shows they (herdsmen) are moving keep quiet.....is that how we critical juncture "with the up country, north to south or accountable.” will continue?" Police Force and other security that leaders who espoused Buhari urged the state personnel.’’ present level of violence ethnocentric ideology, east to west, they had to go in Nigeria, armed robbery, through there. governors to also find a lasting Buhari warned that ‘‘a nation especially in Africa, had solution to the problem. More Personnel, that turns its Police personnel banditry, kidnappings, often created more problems “If you allow your cattle Salary Increase for unknown gunmen, herdsmen to stray into any farm, you On when his administration and infrastructure into targets than they intended to solve,” will restore the operations Police of violence and destruction menace, Boko Haram, mass Ohanaeze said. FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 • THISDAY 11 12 FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 • THISDAY 13 14 THISDAY • FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA COMMENT Email [email protected] THE MUHAMMADU BUHARI INTERVIEW The President has a good grasp of the issues afflicting the nation, writes Etim Etim

ven if it did not break any news, the 90-minute exclusive if infrastructure were so bad. He stated that previous administrations interview of President Buhari by Nigeria’s cable network, earned so much from oil, yet they did not build roads, rail and bridges, Arise News, did show that the Nigerian leader is not as so he had to borrow to fix these things. This was the exact same demented as Farooq Kperoqi would want us to believe. answer I gave in October 2018 when I appeared on the same Arise Consistently over the last five years, Prof Kperoqi, a teacher News morning show. I remember retorting back at the panel when in a US university and columnist in Nigerian Tribune, has they asked me why whether it was okay for the government to borrow Ebeen making the point in his articles that President Buhari is so men- so much: ‘If you travel around the country as I do, you’d notice how tally challenged that he could not hold a 10-minute discussion unaided. bad our roads are. What do you want the president to do? Fold his Many of my friends who work in the Villa have discountenanced arms and do nothing’? Successive administrations between 1999 and this assertion vehemently whenever I confronted them, but Kperoqi’s 2015 have failed to invest on infrastructure. Federal roads were in a unrelenting repetition of his claim has left me puzzled. The President’s terrible state of disrepair and no single rail line was constructed, yet the taciturnity, aloofness and near absence in the face of a national turmoil country earned billions of dollars from crude oil exports. I am sure that has not done much to dispel Kperoqi’s theory. But watching the the people who stole these resources and stashed them away are now interview this morning (Thursday, June 10, 2021), I came away with the the same people sponsoring violence and negative news against the impression that the Atlanta-based professor is guilty of blatant exaggera- country. They wouldn’t mind destroying the country, just because they tions on the president’s health. There’s no doubt that at 78, Buhari has have their “Plan B’’ to run outside the country if, God forbid, crisis obviously lost some of his acuity and alertness. Senescence has certainly erupts. set in, and this explains why some of his answers were not related to On open grazing of cattle, the president said: “Two South West the questions asked. But overall, he is fairly alert mentally and he has a governors came to me to report that cattle rearers were destroying good command of the issues bedeviling the nation. farms in their states; I asked them what happened to the grassroot The interview expectedly covered a wide range of issues: insecurity, security panels from traditional rulers to local governments who meet Twitter, restructuring and devolution of power, corruption, national regularly to identify the root of their problems and identify crooks debt, IPOB and the South East, appointment of army chief, the within their environment. Who destroyed this system? Go back and Buhari legacy, open grazing and where the next president will come fix it, give your people sense of belonging. I don’t like it when people from. These are some of the key topics that have seized our national campaign to become governors and people trusted them with their conversation in the last several years, and so most of the president’s votes and after winning, they can’t perform, they’re trying to push answers were quite predictable. On insecurity, the president says he responsibilities to others. ....We have three tiers of government, federal, was almost overwhelmed by the violence in the North Western region state and local. We have killed the local government totally. We will given that the people there are of homogenous culture, religion and send N300m as allocation to a local government, one governor will tradition. He however noted that the law enforcement agencies have ask the LG chairman to sign that he collected N300m but he will give risen to the challenge. “We closed the mines and drove away illegal him N100m and the chairman will keep quiet.....is that how we will miners from Zamfara State, and this has helped to reduce banditry continue?” This is vintage Buhari. Plain and blunt. The president is in the area’’, Buhari said. The president wondered why Igbos would essentially complaining about corruption among the governors and want to secede from Nigeria when they live and own massive property their inability to rise to their responsibilities. In my article in The all over the nation. On why the president has not considered any Guardian titled “Niger Delta and the search for peace”, I note that Igboman for appointment as a service chief, the president stated that many governors are so afraid of confronting criminals in their states, such positions require persons of immense experience, competence and yet they keep collecting huge sums as security votes. cognate track records. ‘’For the chief of army staff, for example, the Another interesting aspect of the interview was when the president person must be well known to the soldiers who are fighting in the field was asked what his legacy would be. “I will leave that for Nigerians to so that they would relate with him very well’’, the President said. This decide, but I hope that they will be fair to me. Nigerians should judge explains why the three army chiefs Buhari has so far appointed have me fairly, based on what we met when we came in and what we have been commanders in the theatre of war in the North East. This is the been able to do’’, the President said, noting that he will return to his same consideration that influences the appointment of military chiefs in farm when he leaves office. The huge security challenges which have the US, for example. In May 2015 when President Obama nominated enveloped the country have almost completely obliterated whatever Marine General Joseph Dunford to succeed Gen Martin Dempsey as achievements this administration has managed to record. The president the Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman, the President relied heavily on Gen risks being remembered as the peace-time leader under whom most Dunford’s track records. Gen Dunford had served as the Commander Nigerians died. In my article titled ‘’Buhari’s legacy; Osinbajo’s of American and Coalition Forces in Afghanistan in 2013 and 2014 burden’’ and published in The Guardian of February 5, 2021, I made and was just before his elevation, the Commandant of the US Marine ANOTHER INTERESTING ASPECT OF THE the point that after eight years, the whole of Buhari’s legacy would be Corps. Note that Afghanistan was the main theatre of war for the US INTERVIEW WAS WHEN THE PRESIDENT WAS defined, not by the rails and roads he’d built, but by how well and as at 2015. In fact Obama described Gen Dunford as one of the “most ASKED WHAT HIS LEGACY WOULD BE. ‘I WILL safe Nigerians had lived under him. Let me end by commending admired officers in our military’’, and someone whose decision-making LEAVE THAT FOR NIGERIANS TO DECIDE, Arise News, our own CNN, for consistently improving in its offerings he trusts. as the nation’s only international cable channel. The Morning Show I was particularly struck at President Buhari’s answer to the BUT I HOPE THAT THEY WILL BE FAIR TO has become the most popular of the breakfast shows on our TV. The question on our huge foreign debts. The Buhari administration has ME. NIGERIANS SHOULD JUDGE ME FAIRLY, interview team comprised Nduka Obaigbena (Chairman of Arise News borrowed billions of dollars from China and some multilateral agencies BASED ON WHAT WE MET WHEN WE CAME IN and Publisher of THISDAY Newspaper; Segun Adeniyi, Chairman of to fund infrastructure. The president said that he inherited decrepit AND WHAT WE HAVE BEEN ABLE TO DO’, THE THISDAY Editorial Board, Reuben Abati and Tundun Abiola). infrastructure and empty treasury, and the economy could not develop PRESIDENT SAID Etim is a Journalist ON THE TWITTER BAN The ban is a breach of fundamental human rights of expression, argues Adewale Kupoluyi he media have been awash with the part of the globe to another within seconds. That is of certain parts of the country at the disadvantage of professionals that should never fail to discharge federal government’s suspension of the beauty of social media. On the other hand, fake the majority while flagrant and continued outbursts their duties. Unfortunately, many people feel that the operations of Twitter in Nigeria. news, cybercrimes, intrusion into privacy; addiction, by some religious and political leaders are perceived the appointees seem to have compromised profes- Ordinarily, such a tough and sensitive and hate speech have been associated with this as a clear violation of mutual respect for others sional ethics all in a bid to satisfy their principals. decision is seriously generating mixed technology. However, no matter how we may look through the backing. It is for these reasons that This should not be. The Twitter ban could have feelings among the people going by the at it, the coming of social media has definitely been the nation is constantly engulfed in undue tension been averted had the aides done the needful by Tinfluence that Twitter wields within the social media a plus to humanity. Taking a look at the President’s and militarisation, sectarian crises, ethic violence, challenging the action in court. The suspension may world. The suspension, which was initially referred message that got him sanctioned, the retired youth restiveness, religious intolerance, and political eventually not make any difference for many social to as ‘indefinite’, was later tagged ‘temporary’ general had threatened to deal with separatist groups turmoil, and the call for restructuring, secession, media users because many of them had started regarding micro-blogging and social networking accused of violence, saying that “Many of those constitutional amendment, and a revisit to the migrating to other platforms, despite threats by the service in the country, citing the persistent use of misbehaving, today are too young to be aware of the national question. Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister the platform for activities capable of undermining destruction and loss of lives that occurred during the In view of the anxiety and tension brewing across of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN), who directed the nation’s corporate existence and other social Nigerian Civil War. Those of us in the fields for 30 the country, the tweet of Buhari can be described as the Department of Public Prosecution to prosecute media platforms, where misinformation and fake months, who went through the war, will treat them ill-timed and hence, the reason why his account was anyone that flaunts the ban by using Virtual Private news spread, culminating in the commencement of in the language they understand”. Ordinarily, one is suspended. The current administration cannot be Network (VPN). the process of licensing all Over-the-Top (OTT) and tempted to feel that Buhari was merely expressing exonerated from the many challenges facing the na- Those likely to feel the government’s brunt are social media operations. his opinion on how to prevent ‘trouble-makers’ from tion because of the way and manner that insecurity local employees and service providers that are Despite wide criticism by local and international causing mayhem in the country. This is not exactly has been handled and the failure to apprehend and mainly Nigerians and Nigerian companies since observers, government officials keep maintaining correct. However, there are a number of issues that prosecute culprits fanning the embers of discord Twitter itself is an international organisation, whose that the decision of Twitter to place an embargo need to be examined concerning the controversial in the country. Even the fight against corruption investment in the country cannot be taken to be on the account of President Muhammadu Buhari tweet. How did we get to this point where there is that forms a cardinal programme under the Buhari colossal enough to warrant crippling its operation was selective and unjustified, but the network had alarming insecurity in the land? Why are secession- administration has been tagged as selective and not with the ban. Taking a cursory look at the legal insisted that its action was right and in order. No ists’ agitations becoming louder by the day and well handled. What many Nigerians had expected dimension, the ban could be viewed as an attempt doubt, the advent of the New Media remains a boost across the country? What is prompting the various was an assurance from the president himself, not by to censor dissent voices and stifle the civic space, to information and communication technology, as ethnic and tribal affiliations to be fed up with staying his proxy that the fears and concerns of the people contrary to Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution that about 40 million Nigerians are said to have active together under the same umbrella or country? are adequately being addressed and not to come up provides for Fundamental Human Rights such as the Twitter accounts, according to NOI polls; a public The truth is that presently, Nigeria is more divided with volatile message that can create more problems freedom of expression, which includes the freedom opinion and research organisation while the network than ever before. Apart from the general insecurity in the polity. to hold opinions, receive and impart ideas and is also ranked as the sixth-most used social media and near-comatose economy, the distribution of Another issue of worry is the quality of com- information without interference. platform in the country. Today, information can national wealth remains highly uneven, appoint- munications being churned out. Without prejudice, Dr. Kupoluyi wrote from Federal University of promptly be sent and received from one remote ments into key political offices are skewed in favour presidential aides are meant to be seasoned Agriculture, Abeokuta, . THISDAY • FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021 15 EDITORIAL AVERTING COVID-19 THIRD WAVE

Nigerians should continue to wear their face masks and maintain social distancing

he federal government recently deaths across 36 states and the Federal Capital warned Nigerians against travel- Territory (FCT). But these relatively low figures ling to countries currently should not be taken for granted particularly experiencing the third wave of the with what is happening in India which recorded COVID-19 pandemic. The warn- the highest single-day spike of more than 6000 ing was predicated on the fact that deaths barely 24 hours ago. new infections from such places could worsen our fragile situation. ince the third wave of the pandemic The airlines were also told that they could be started, India had recorded 2.24 million Tfined as high as $3,500 for each passenger coming new COVID-19 cases with 16,257 deaths from these affected countries. To demonstrate in the first seven days. The surge has its seriousness, the federal government declared Soverwhelmed hospitals, morgues and cremato- 90 travellers who recently visited or arrived riums and has left families scrambling for scarce from India, Brazil and Turkey as potential health medicines and oxygen. Health experts in the hazards. country believed mass religious gatherings and According to the chairman of the Presidential political rallies were the major factors that led to Steering Committee on COVID-19, Boss Musta- this major health disaster. To say the least, Nigeria pha, these identified individuals failed to observe does not have what it takes to handle such major the newly instituted mandatory protocols recently health crisis. put in place against the spread of the virus, We therefore call on every Nigerian to sustain adding that the public declaration was necessary the precautions that have ensured the number in other to drive of infections did not outgrow our fragile health THE NUMBER OF DEATHS home the need for system. Religious clerics, traditional rulers and AND INFECTIONS IN THE Nigerians to take other stakeholders must lead the efforts for the LAST FEW WEEKS ACROSS extra care to avert continued adherence to protocols put in place THE COUNTRY IS ENOUGH the third wave of THISDAY by the Nigerian government. No time is more REMINDER THAT THE the scourge. Mus- EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI apt for the collective effort against COVID-19 DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI AJAYI, DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN, PANDEMIC IS STILL VERY tapha further stated MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO than now, especially since the National Primary MUCH POTENT that health officials DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI would not accept EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) COVID-19 PCR MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE and the Federal Ministry of Health have not done test results older than 72 hours upon passengers’ much to vaccinate the public. As of this week, less arrival in Nigeria. than two million people have been vaccinated in Apart from the named travellers who flouted THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED the country for the first dose, while only about the country’s COVID-19 protocols, many Nige- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA 100,000 Nigerians have taken the second jab in a GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, rians now hardly put on face masks or maintain ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI population of over 200 million people. social distancing. To many, the virus no longer DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS BOLAJI ADEBIYI, PETER IWEGBU, In the absence of an effective COVID-19 vac- ANTHONY OGEDENGBE causes serious harm to those infected. However, DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI cine distribution across board, what the country the number of deaths and infections in the last SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH has for now are the infectious disease protocols few weeks across the country is enough reminder ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI which must be adhered to pending when most CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI that the pandemic is still very much potent. DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO Nigerians are vaccinated. Under the prevailing As at the time of going to press, the country HEAD, COMPUTER DEPARTMENT PATRICIA UBAKA-ADEKOYA circumstance, prevention remains the most had recorded about 170,000 infections and 2,200 TO SEND EMAIL: first [email protected] plausible cure.

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. ENHANCING EFFECTIVE POLICING WITH INFRASTRUCTURAL SUPPORT

ith prevailing realities nationwide, any support to citizens, animals and properties. transfer to central database and empower criminal investigation officers the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) would certainly be The WAPIS programme provided the first batch of equipment, to cross reference criminal records of offenders. a great step in the right direction. Indeed, with the which included the deployment and installation of 20 workstation on Currently, modern-day criminal activities are sophisticated and those increasing anti-police manifestations by gunmen various law enforcement agencies sites, including Police, Immigra- involved are highly creative and educated based on their access to the and other protesters alone, the NPF would be tion, National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons information and communication technology tools. This has translated to greatly encouraged with any initiative that would (NAPTIP) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). evasion of arrest and loss of lives and properties in the country. helpW its operations. This was followed with three training sessions. Criminal activities no longer have boundaries, it involves many Hence, federal government’s recent adoption of the West African The centre will be the hub for the collation of information on criminal people from different background, languages, sex, colour and countries. Police Information System programme (WAPIS) of the Economic Com- proceeding from the various law enforcement agencies. The subsequent They are cooperating in groups across the world to defraud, monitor munity of West African States has been described as a very laudable analyzed information will be shared with relevant agencies and partners. and kill innocent citizens. step in providing required support to boost the capacity and capability It is remarkable that the federal government through its Ministries/ These realities, especially the sophistication of criminal activities and of the police personnel in the country. Departments/Agencies is making concerted efforts to actualize drive to promote e-government and digitization of the economy, must WAPIS is the West African Police Information System programme of stakeholders’ concern in the ICT sector and citizens’ demand for a have prompted federal government’s decision to put square pegs in the ECOWAS, funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented reliable database in the country. square holes by appointing astute and diligent administrator -Moham- by the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL). The obvious truth is that some critical government agencies like the mad Maigari Dingyadi - and information and communication expert The WAPIS Centre was inaugurated by the Minister of Police Affairs Police Force are not on the same level of speed with other agencies and driver of e-government in the country - Mr Tope Fashedemi -as at the Force Headquarters, Abuja on Wednesday, May 26, 2021, with in the implementation of digitalization and e-government that would Honourable Minister and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Police state-of-the-art biometric capturing equipment which will be capturing enable effective and efficient database in the country. Affairs respectively. information of suspects and convicted criminals and pooling such The Divisional Police stations in the country lack basic ICT infrastruc- This combination had elicited appropriate policy formulation and information in a centralized database. ture that would create enabling environment for accurate, real-time and implementation as well as confidence from partners, stakeholders and The inauguration was sequel to an earlier decision on Wednesday digitalize database that would capture detailed information of people, international organizations in the world. March 24, 2021when the federal government adopted the regulation of animals and properties within the police station environment. Currently, the ministry is working closely with partners, especially the WAPIS National Committee (WANACO) on the system, the data The process of writing a statement, generating a report for citizens China, to attract more infrastructure, investment, Information and collection and registration centre (DACORE). and the input of biodata and other official engagements in the police Communications Technology (ICT) and security equipment/training Significantly, the database is imperative for effective policing in stations are done manually, creating an avenue for extortion of citizens programme as well as foreign industries into the country to create more Nigeria and concerted efforts should be made by the federal govern- and stalling revenue generation for the government. employment opportunities, security and reduce poverty in the country. ment, state and local governments to drive the process through the Besides, most of the criminal records of offenders and properties all Bolaji O. Kazeem Head (Press and Public Relations Unit) digitalization of their systems to enable proper documentation of both over the country are not done electronically so as to enable seamless Ministry of Police Affairs, Abuja 16 THISDAY ˾FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG Email: [email protected] POLITICS 08114495324 SMS ONLY Dapo Abiodun’s Infrastructural Scorecard in Two Years Kunle Somorin, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State presents a glowing scorecard of the administration’s performance

gun State Governor, Prince ment in actualising its set goals. Dapo Abiodun, has practi- Over a year, specifically on September 9, cally left no one in doubt of his 2020, the committee formally presented its commitment to revamping the report to Abiodun at the Governor’s Office, state of infrastructure in the Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. In his remarks GatewayO State. This, perhaps, is evident in during the presentation, Mokuolu disclosed the zeal and sense of purpose with which that 114 contracts valued at more than several abandoned capital projects have N349. 376billion were awarded with total been pursued and new constructions payment of more than N130.735billion. undertaken by his administration. He added that a total amount for Unpaid Abiodun, who rode to power on the Certificate of Value for work done was more platform of All Progressives Congress than N20.741billion while revealing that (APC) following his victory in the March more than N218.380billion was needed to 9, 2019 governorship election in the state, complete the projects. marks the second year anniversary of his But Abiodun, while receiving the report, administration on Saturday, May 29, 2021. had reassured the people of the state The mid-term celebration, which also that his administration would not inflict coincides with the governor’s 61st birthday, unnecessary pain on them in the course is significant in many ways and friends, of executing projects. The governor, who political associates and well-wishers are commended members of the committee normally expected to roll out the drums. for sparing their time and experience for However, as it’s the usual practice in this the good of the state, reaffirmed that the his clime, such milestones present another administration would complete all projects striking opportunity to evaluate the gover- that would engender good governance and nor and critique his performance in office so impact meaningfully on the lives of the far. Indeed, it is the moment of stock-taking people. and rendering account of stewardship. Of Not allowing the shocking revelations in course, one of the areas where Abiodun the contracts and projects review report to would inevitably come under public reversed. Governor Abiodun charged its members to overwhelm or discourage him, Abiodun scrutiny is infrastructural development. On July 23, 2019, the state government ensure the mandate vested on them yielded progressed with robust determination to In virtually all states of the federation, announced the setting up of the Mokuolu- optimal results. The committee chairman, in address the problems posed by inadequate the dearth of infrastructures is a critical led committee. When he subsequently turn, assured that the panel would come up infrastructures. challenge that has impacted negatively inaugurated the committee on July 30, 2019, with a blueprint that would help govern- In consonance with his campaign on the lives of the people. The perennial promises, Abiodun revived the state road deplorable condition of roads, inefficient management agency, OGROMA. He transportation, epileptic electricity, housing reinvigorated the agency by following up deficit, water and sanitation problems as Taking the Legislature Back to the People with an enabling bill to the state House of well as poorly funded health and educa- Assembly and the Ogun State Public Works tional institutions are making both rural Mon-Charles Egbo, Print Media Aide to the Senate President Agency (OGPWA) was birthed. and urban areas quite unhabitable. writes that the clouded view of the public at the National In major towns and highways of the state, With a rapidly increasing population, various gangs of the OGPWA have swung Ogun State, which is the fastest growing Assembly has blocked a clear appreciation of many into action and carried out palliative works investment and commercial destination commendable strides of the present serving senators and rehabilitation of failed sections. In two in the country, has also grappled with this years, the agency has also handled some infrastructural decay before the advent of hen cham- Before becoming the senate president, significant road reconstructions to alleviate pioned a people-oriented Senator Ahmad Lawan had campaigned on Governor Abiodun. legislature, perhaps it made the mantra of taking the legislature back to the suffering of the people. But beyond Abiodun succeeded the immediate past meaning to only a few. But the people, towards a new Nigeria where that, different construction firms have also governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, who Wwhen the British prime minister, Boris active participation and inclusiveness in executed road projects spanning across the despite carrying out audacious road revolu- Johnson, echoed it six months later, it governance reign supreme. There was three senatorial districts of the state. tion - mainly concentrated in one section of resonated with many. While Lawan had even a template to integrate the House of From June 2019 till date, the Abiodun-led the state - left many uncompleted capital declared that, “in the laws we enact, in the Representatives and the state assemblies administration has constructed and recon- oversight and representations we under- in this regard. And quite pointedly, he projects at the end of his tenure and conse- take, the wellbeing of the Nigerian people proclaimed that under him, the senate structed roads spanning 270.88 kilometres. quently placing heavy debt and financial will always be our priority” and also that would not compromise its “institutional In addition, over 300km of roads have been burden on the successor administration. “an annual report titled, “Senate That independence” but “will however avoid rehabilitated across the state within the At least, 66 capital projects spread Works for the People, will be published”; unnecessary conflict”. Equally, he was period under review. Several others are at across the state, costing several billions of Johnson announced to the Britons that “we emphatic that “the 9th senate will make a different stages of completion. Moreover, Naira, were abandoned by the Amosun will work round the clock to repay your conscious effort to ensure a smoother rela- work is billed to commence soon on some trust and to deliver on your priorities with tionship with the presidency, by organizing government, according to the report of the a parliament that works for you”. By these periodic senate-presidency meetings to inherited projects, according to recent Contracts and Projects Review Committee statesmen simply, an ideal legislature must discuss issues of national importance”. He statement from the state Ministry of Works set up by the present administration. be about the people, providing solutions, never pretended about this course of action, and Infrastructure. The committee, chaired by President of and diligently committed to creating especially having stayed long enough in In Ogun Central Senatorial District, the the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), pathways for good governance. the legislature to understand the imports. Panseke-Adigbe Road, Lafenwa-Rounda- Engr. Adekunle Mokuolu, also revealed However, a fair assessment of the 9th These eventually earned him popular votes Ayetoro Road, MKO Abiola Stadium damning inconsistencies in the award, senate would require an appreciation of from his colleagues at the Senate leadership Road to Kuto Bridge, Adatan-Asero Road some underlying realities. contest, clearly devoid of external interfer- execution and administration of contracts Primarily, this senate is grappling with ences. and Mowe-Ofada Road are among the during the two-term tenure of the ex- a heavy burden of prejudice manifesting Other major thrusts of Lawan’s blueprint, major projects inherited by the incumbent governor. These inconsistencies included as public cooperation and support deficit. which incidentally were later adopted by governor. improper variation claims; deliberate This is because it inherited image and the senate, were to: “reposition the Senate In Ogun East, the Atan-Erunwon Road, indebtedness of government on haphazard reputational crises arising from the actions to carry out its constitutional duties of leg- -Ode Lemo Road, Ejirin-Oluwalog- multi-billion Naira projects; post-2015 and inaction of the past assemblies. islation, oversight and representation in an bon Road and Ikangba-Lagos Garage-Ilese Again, parliaments are corporately rated open and transparent manner; strengthen procurement infractions; and disregard for based on oversight duties and legislations, the internal operations and processes of the Road as some critical inherited projects Right of Way, relocation and compensation, but because of the state of the economy committees of the senate towards efficient while the Owode- Road and Odò among others. and level of infrastructural decay, which service delivery; take legislative actions Afa Bridge are projects left by the former Some of the abandoned projects inher- incidentally also preceded the 9th national to improve national economic conditions government in Ogun West. ited by the Abiodun-led administration assembly, the masses now judge legislators including public finance management and It is instructive that some of the foregoing included the Judicial Complex, Kobape; based on the number of projects executed national security architecture and to reduce projects have been completed and others and lives touched through direct economic poverty, unemployment and infrastructure 250-bed Specialist Hospital, Oke-Mosan; assistance. The public expects the national deficits; propose and implement a national still ongoing. This, indeed, is commendable Deputy Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan; assembly to usurp the duties of the execu- planning and annual budget process that because continuity of projects is unprec- Kuto flyover; NNPC - Kuto road expansion; tive to be seen as ‘performing’. fosters collaboration between the execu- edented in the annals of history of the state. Ajitadun-Adatan flyover, expansion of Then above all, Nigeria’s constitution does tive and legislative arms of government; Detracting from recent past experiences, Ilaro-Owode Road and Lafenwa-Rounda not offer the legislature sufficient strength to continue with legislative action to bring the governor has clearly shown he is not Road, among others. operate independently. It thus implies that to closure all outstanding legislation in office to personalise governance but to enforcing the universal principles of separa- including the electoral act and constitution Since assuming the leadership of the tion of powers in democratic governance amendments bills”. accommodate all and dispense patronage state, Abiodun has taken measures to ultimately leads to anarchy, given Nigeria’s across board. review some of the projects, contracts and peculiar constitution. decisions of his predecessor. Some of the Meanwhile, there are specific goals that NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the decisions, especially those taken at the the 9th senate set to accomplish. online edition on www.thisdaylive.com online edition on www.thisdaylive.com twilight of the last administration, were THISDAY ˾FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 17

PERSPECTIVE Let’s Make the Official Status of Lagos Official Hon. Setonji David, Chairman, House Committee on Information, Strategy, Security Lagos State House Trump’s Twists and Nigeria’s of Assembly, supports his compelling argument for a special status for Lagos with indisputable facts Twitter Ban and figures Chido Nwangwu , Publisher, USAfricaonline.com he argument, to grant or not to is bemused by former American President Donald grant, could easily have arisen out of avoidable misconceptions. Does Trump’s support for the Nigerian government’s ban any state in Nigeria hold the key toT over 75 per cent of all manufacturing on Twitter operations in the country activities in the country? Or account for 70 per cent of Nigeria’s maritime trade? served him as the 26th US Secretary of If a cog is thrown in the wheel of Lagos’ Defense from January 2017 to January progress, could any state replace 55% 2019, reflected with profound disappoint- of all VAT revenue which accrues to the ment the Trump White House insensitive, Federation Account from Lagos out of 36 divisive and unworthy handling of the states? If tax revenue is important for the brutal, installment murder of another system to work, Lagos alone generates over non-confrontational Black man, George 82% of Companies Income Tax available to Floyd and made it clear: “Donald Trump the Nigeria. If her economy slumps, if for is the first president in my lifetime any reason half of the jobs in Lagos were who does not try to unite the American to disappear, is there an easy way Nigeria people—does not even pretend to try. can absorb the army of jobless citizens Instead, he tries to divide us.” that would be unleashed on the polity? If you think we’re talking about a Has Nigeria got the answer to any of these City” under an urban renewal programme flaming liberal, you’re wrong. General dilemmas that could easily be thrown up funded by the Indian government. The Mattis served his country’s elite corps for if Lagos were to become shackled by the other cities are political capitals. 44 years. starkly real threats to her development that If Nigeria did not move the political capi- Meanwhile, Facebook extended its are staring us all in the face? tal from Lagos to Abuja in 1999, the federal ban on the polarizing political and social I imagine any of you, dear compatriots, government, as before, would have contin- heavyweight until, at least, January 7, somewhere in Paris or Hague, at an Inter- ued to compliment the effort of the state in ust when you thought the man would 2023. Facebook retains the power to national Conference, listening to a speaker providing jobs, housing, and other infra- have learned a good thing or two from extend it. He has since dismissed presenting city profiles as he latched onto structural amenities to absolve the growth his divisive actions and spoken words Facebook’s decision as “an insult to Lagos: Lagos State’s GDP is bigger than the rate. But the capital moved. Should the of incitement — especially towards the record-setting 75 million people, rest of West Africa put together; if Lagos is a federal government’s social and infrastruc- Jthe end of his presidency, he insists on plus many others, who voted for us in country, it would be the 5th largest economy tural investment in Lagos have stopped? offering more bad example. the 2020 Rigged Presidential Election…. in Africa. I imagine you smiling and nod- Even the federal roads in Lagos, for not Only three days ago, from his palatial More countries should ban Twitter and ding your head proudly and muttering getting priority attention, have constituted residence in Florida, Donald J. Trump, Facebook for not allowing free and open loudly to a few people’s hearing, “Lagos, in an acute economic drain and waste on the former President of the United States who speech—all voices should be heard.” Nigeria. Lagos is in Nigeria.” After all, the fortune of the state’s development. A case also has the dubious place in history as Remarkably, while the world is going, flag on your desk, which everyone could in point was the utter neglect of the Apapa the first president to be impeached twice, irreversibly towards the direction of more see, was clearly of Nigeria. Lagos stood for Oworonshoki expressway, the lack of on Tuesday announced his support of open societies, Trump and his fellow Nigeria, for our pride as Nigerians, for our parking and loading lots for trucks serving the Nigerian government’s decision to travelers are focused on banning Twitter backbone as the largest economy in Africa. Nigeria’s two major ports, and the resultant “indefinitely” block and ban access to and other social media platforms. It is so Are we going to stand up for Lagos now? gridlock. Property value in Apapa crashed, Twitter. anachronistic! Meanwhile, Twitter has Lagos, God forbid, may soon slide into businesses relocated outside of Apapa and “Congratulations to the country of said “We are deeply concerned by the a difficult state of intractable decline, Nigeria to avoid being grounded, Goods Nigeria, who just banned Twitter because blocking of Twitter in Nigeria. Access to developmentally. While the average annual -imports and exports- and machinery they banned their President.” the free and #OpenInternet is an essential population growth in the developing world were delayed beyond pardonable spells And, as usual posting factually false and human right in modern society. We will is three per cent and Nigeria’s rate is 2.7 on this axis. Lagos suffered. And Nigeria’s misleading information online on an issue work to restore access for all those in per cent, Lagos has an annual population economy reeled from loss of port business happening before our eyes. We are all Nigeria who rely on Twitter to communi- growth of staggering eight per cent. With to neigbouring countries, lower capacity digital witnesses. cate and connect with the world.” a population realistically put at 24 million, utilization in industries, lower company First of all, it is important to note that I hope the security-challenged Buhari Lagos is among the top 10 of the world’s profits and foreign direct investment flight. Twitter did not ban the President of presidency and the Nigerian government fastest growing cities and urban areas. Let it be known that other countries have Nigeria from the social media giant’s do not get misled by Mr. Trump’s cynical There is an estimated influx of 10, 000 moved their political capital before but microblogging platform. Specifically, it “support” and jeremiad about Twitter and people; foreigners and Nigerians from other most managed the developmental fallout deleted a tweet by Nigeria’s leader and Facebook. states, into Lagos every single day. Lagos with fairness. A few countries have more former military dictator, Muhammadu Since when did Trump stop thinking has been a willing host to all. Now, Lagos than one capital. Some countries have a Buhari, for violating Twitter rules against, and characterizing Nigeria as part of groans under the weight of its gargantuan political capital, as well as a judicial capital posting and sharing tweets which reflect the African confederation of “s**t-hole” responsibility towards all whom she has and a legislative capital. Malaysia has Kuala “behavior” such as “Threaten violence countries? When he wants to fight Twitter offered a home. Lanpur as its official and royal capital and against an individual or a group of people; for his self interest? A population growth challenge like seat of national legislature, and Putrajaya as engage in the targeted harassment of Or, may be, just this period his Repub- Lagos’ needs to be met with building more administrative centre and seat of national someone, or incite other people to do so; lican minions are giddily enacting and roads, providing housing, providing more judiciary. The Netherland and nor promote violence against, threaten, or rushing legislations to undermine the resources for disposing solid waste, build- have their state functions spread likewise. harass other people on the basis of race, rights and access of African-American ing more schools, providing security and The Netherlands has Amstadam as De ethnicity, national origin, caste, sexual voters? health facilities. The then Governor of Lagos jure capital under the constitution of the orientation, gender, gender identity, Or may be.... State, Governor Tunde Fashola, as far back Netherlands and Hague the seat of govern- religious affiliation, age, disability, or as 2017, shouted hoarse that Lagos would ment and residence of the royal family serious disease.” require an investment of N6.14 trillion over South Africa has Pretoria as administrative Twitter suspended President Buhari’s the next 15 years to build and upgrade and executive capital, Cape Town as the account for 12 hours. Buhari warned on The Nigerian government infrastructural facilities in the state for her legislative capital and Bloemfontein as Tuesday June 1, that “Those of us in the do not get misled by Mr. teeming populace. Despite her commend- her Judicial capital. These are decent fields for 30 months, who went through able feat in IGR generation, Lagos is in efforts at making sure that the burden of the war, will treat them in the language Trump’s cynical “support” want of a helping hand from the rest of the development continued to be shared by they understand.” It was a targeted, country. Is it wise to fold our hands and just the respective federal governments. And chilling and deliberate reference to young and jeremiad about look, do nothing? indeed when General Muritala Mohammed activists and agitators, primarily, in the Twitter and Facebook. City Mayors Foundation, an international announced the proposed movement of the east central/south eastern part of Nigeria. think tank dedicated to urban affairs, in capital from Lagos to Abuja in 1976, he was On the other hand, Trump was hit with Since when did Trump 2011 recognised Lagos as among the aware of this moral and developmental a permanent ban from Twitter following world’s 10 fastest growing cities. Lagos imperative. He had promised that Lagos his litany of offensive, racially demeaning stop thinking and comes after Beeithai (China), Ghaziabad and three others –Enugu, Port Harcourt and posts, crude retweets and especially the (India), Sana’a (Yemen), Surat (India), Kabul Kaduna- would be turned into centres of physical, deadly exemplification of his characterizing Nigeria (Afghanistan), and Bamako (Mali). As of excellence to ensure developmental spread. incendiary remarks a few hours earlier as part of the African today, Lagos is the only one on this list with- Nigerian leaders today –the Senate- can which led up to the right-wing insurrec- out a constitutionally recognised special revisit this promise and start somewhere, tion and violent attacks of January 6, 2021 confederation of “s**t- status in terms of development attention. where the need is greatest, by recognizing at the US Capitol, a symbol of American China designated Beithai as a “Special and providing for Lagos’ Special Status. power, influence and democracy. hole” countries? When he Economic Zone and Marine Protected Let me remind you, on Wednesday June wants to fight Twitter for Area”, India designates Ghaziabad as “a NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the 3, 2020, James Norman Mattis, United national Capital Region” and Surat –a city online edition on www.thisdaylive.com States Marine Corps retired General, who his self interest? of six million people in 2016- as a “Smart 18 FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 •THISDAY THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 19

Group Business Editor Obinna Chima Email [email protected] BUSINESSWORLD 08024557078  Ͳ˜ͰͮͰͯ MONEY MARKET REPO S & P INDEX S & P INDEX EXCHANGE RATE OBB 15 % CALL 14.50 % INDEX LEVEL 515.94 % 1/4 TO DATE -7.67 % N410.75/1US DOLLAR* OVERNIGHT 15.25 % 1-MONTH 16 % 1-DAY 0.99 % YEAR TO DATE -23.03 % ̩   3-MONTH 17 % MONTH-TO-DATE -1.52 %

Quick Takes Air Cargo Up 12% in April The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced that global demand measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs), was up 12 per cent in April 2020, compared to April 2019, and 7.8 per cent compared to March 2021. The report indicated that seasonally adjusted demand was five per cent higher than the pre-crisis August 2018 peak. The strong performance was led by North American carriers contributing 7.5 percentage to the overall growth. Airlines in all other regions except for Latin America also supported the growth. Capacity remains 9.7 per cent below pre-COVID-19 levels (April 2019) due to the ongoing grounding of passenger aircraft. Airlines continued to use dedicated freighters to plug the lack of available belly capacity, it stated. “Underlying economic conditions and favourable supply chain dynamics remain supportive for air cargo: global trade rose 4.2 per cent in March; competitiveness against sea shipping has improved. “Air cargo rates have stabilized since reaching a peak in April 2020, while shipping container rates have remain relatively high in comparison. “Air cargo continues to be the good news story for the air transport sector. Demand is up 12 per cent on pre-crisis levels and yields are solid. Some regions are outperforming the global trend, most notably STAKEHOLDERS’ ENGAGEMENT carriers in North America, the Middle East and Africa. “Strong air cargo L-R: Executive Secretary/ CEO, Financial Reporting Council (FRC), Amb. Adamu Shuaibu; Chairman, Senate Committee on performance, however, is not universal. The recovery for carriers in Trade and Investment, Senator Fadahunsi, and former Acting Executive Secretary, FRC, Dr. Iheanyi Anyahara, after a visit to the the Latin American region, for example, is stalled,” said IATA’s Director Senator…recently General, Willie Walsh. Akwa Ibom to Host Tour Operators Akwa Ibom state has confirmed that it would host the fifth edition of the Nigerian Association of Tour Operators (NATOP) in Uyo, Akwa FG Moves to Blacklist Shipping Companies Ibom State capital. The state Commissioner of Tourism, Orman Esin, and his Information and Strategy counterpart Ini Ememobong, identified and eulogised over Tariff Hike the tourism offerings of Akwa Ibom at a joint press organised with the leadership of NATOP recently where the hosting was announced. Eromosele Abiodun MARITIME and Exports), Regulation 1997, It stated that, “In view “Akwa Ibom is the real deal. We have the options for all types of tourism Nigeria Shippers Council (Port of the above, any service in Nigeria. We have the biggest hotel property in West Africa, consistent The federal government has According to the NSC, “It Economic Regulator) October provider that unilaterally growth over the years. announced that it will not has come to the notice of the 2015 and Nigeria Shippers increases its charges/rates will “We knew that bringing Naija7Wonders group to our state in December accept any further increase Nigerian Shippers Council that Council (Port Economic) be blacklisted and sanctioned for the Christmas Village will bring us the attention we needed. Now we in tariff at the nation’s seaports. some terminal operators and Regulations 2015.” accordingly. have secured the AGM of the strongest promoters of Tourism in Nigeria. In a yet to be published shipping companies have The NSC added that any “Port users are advised to “We are your partners and will grow tourism together. The Governor circular obtained by THIS- published notices of proposed such charges needs to be ignore any such unauthorised has a vision of a modern state and has deliberately engineered the development of industries and improved on the existing infrastructure. DAY, titled, “Public Notice increase in tariff. subjected to analysis with increase in charges. Note that Today Ibom Air is celebrated all over the nation as a standard of excellence.” to Terminal Operators, Ship- “The NSC is not aware of justification to ensure such henceforth the Nigeria Shippers The Information and Strategy Commissioner Comrade Ememobong ping Companies and Other any upward review in charges increase reflects the present Council will only deal with in his speech highlighted the strong points of Akwa Ibom State. Regulated Service Providers in to accommodate certain eco- economic realities, “and the regulated service providers on “Cuisine, infrastructure, scenery, people and buildings are the hallmarks the Port Sector,” the Nigerian nomic trends in the country. charges must be directly related individual basis to enhance of Akwa Ibom State. We are a very secure place not by accident but by Shippers Council (NSC) said “However, any such review to quality of service.” service delivery at the ports.” the determination, focus and will of the state government. The Governor it will not accept any tariff must be negotiated and ap- “It is pertinent to note that This is coming as freight is an industrialist and the state will benefit from energizing the tourism increase that will put more proved by the NSC in line certain service providers are forwarding associations at the stakeholders to come and enjoy the synergy of our facilities. Akwa burden on shippers and with the provisions of the already negotiating with the Ports and Terminal Multipur- Ibom is your best choice for Tourism in Nigeria,” he said. consumers. Nigeria Shippers Council Nigeria Shippers Council in pose Limited (PTML) Terminal, Earlier in her speech the President of NATOP, Hajia Bilkisu Abdul thanked the State for choosing to host the AGM. It warned that any service Act CAP N133 Law of the line with established guidelines Tin Can Island Port Complex, provider that unilaterally Federation (LPN) 2004 and and the Nigeria Shippers Lagos, have expressed support Qatar Participates at Russian Economic Forum increases its charges/rates its subsidiary regulations: Council will also not unneces- for the review of handling Qatar Airways said it participated at the St. Petersburg International would be blacklisted and Nigeria Shippers Council (Local sarily delay the process and charges at the terminal by Economic Forum (SPIEF) that was held under the patronage of the sanctioned accordingly. Shipping Charges on Imports approval,” it added. 50 per cent. Russian President, Mr. Vladimir Putin and attended by key opinion leaders from around the world. Qatar Airways stated that it impressed participants with its product and hospitality and signed several agreements with key Russian companies. During the forum, Mr. Akbar Al Baker also met with Mr. Alexander Beglov, Airlines Record Low Patronage over Insecurity Governor of St. Petersburg, and Mr. Maxim Sokolov, Vice-Governor of St. Petersburg, to discuss opportunities to further expand the bilateral Chinedu Eze AVIATION dropped. We used to do N16, 500, although industry relations between the State of Qatar and the Russian Federation in something like 90 per cent load pundits said such fare is not terms of Tourism and Air Transport. Airlines have confirmed that load factor in its flights to factor and some days we see sustainable. But the move by As part of its commitment to the Russian market, the airline signed passenger traffic has reduced Enugu, Owerri and Port 80 per cent load factor in a day. the airline was said to have several MOU agreements with significant Russian-based entities in the last four weeks. Harcourt. “Sometimes people buy ignited price war. including, Volga-Dnepr and Pulkovo Airport. This, they attributed to the The airlines said they might tickets but they couldn’t “Even now, there is a kind The signing ceremonies were conducted with Mr. Alexey Isaikin, Board growing insecurity in different be stepping into low season, travel for reasons I don’t of price war. There are some of Directors of Volga-Dnepr, and Mr. Leonid Sergeev, CEO of Pulkovo parts of the country. but because many travellers know. Maybe they don’t want prices you know that will never Airport respectively. Those who spoke to THIS- have shunned road transport, to travel for fear of one thing or even be able to buy you fuel, Qatar Airways said it exhibited its patented award-winning Business DAY insisted that high airfares Class product, the Qsuite, featuring the industry’s first-ever double it is expected that air transport the other. So, passenger traffic but people are going to push bed in Business Class. could be a factor, but insecurity should sustain high patronage has dropped. out such prices and it is just was also identified as major even during this season. “Also, I believe that by the a matter of time, it will affect reason. They noted that even at A senior executive in one of time all our places come in, the airlines. the peak of high cost of tickets the major domestic carriers told including the brand new ones, “The Nigerian Civil Avia- in May and April, passenger THISDAY that passenger traffic we will be having many planes tion Authority (NCAA) will “Aero Aircraft traffic was still high. has dropped even as airlines flying in this country. It is going not allow you to cut corners Maintenance THISDAY learnt that some are bringing in more airplanes to be a struggle for the few and it is only a stupid airline Organisation (AMO) airlines that resumed flights from checks overseas, while passengers and few airports. that will go and cut corners allows us to handle total to some destinations in the new aircraft acquired by one “Some of the airports do not because it is more expensive repair with certified north had to withdraw, while of the airlines have continued have night flying facilities and if to cut corners in aviation than maintenance facility the south-east airports, which to be delivered. we deploy over 30 planes here to do the right thing. So the where commercial used to be lucrative routes The official argued that with plus new airlines deploying price war has started because and private aircraft after Lagos and Abuja have such reduction in passenger and the old airlines deploying, of so many airlines and fewer maintenance can be recorded reduction in passenger traffic there could be a glut we are all going to struggle passengers out there,” the completed” movement. as more aircraft return to for the few passengers,” the official said. Head of Communications, the country, adding that this official said. More capacity to be provided Managing Director/CEO Aero Dana Air, Kingsley Ezenwa, would lead to stiff competition Recently one of the new car- means more airlines with more Contractors, told THISDAY that there is in airfares. riers, Green Africa announced aircraft have come to provide Captain Abdullahi Mahmood slight reduction in the airline’s “Passenger traffic hasthat it would sell tickets at services for air travelers. 20 THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ BUSINESSWORLD INTERVIEW Onyema: Nigerian Pilots Deliver Greater Service to Airlines than Expatriates The Chairman/CEO of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, in this interview says indigenous pilots spend longer time serving airlines than expatriates. Onyema also explained why he increased the salary of the airline’s workforce recently. Chinedu Eze brings the excerpts:

y way of comparison, do you a lot of people are cashing in on that to think the indigenous personnel dent my image and my reputation. But the in aviation in Nigeria are do- question is, when they ask questions about ing well and do you prefer an what I am doing with Air Peace or where I expatriate especially in technical am getting the money, why didn’t they ask Bareas to Nigerian personnel? questions about where I got the money I Aviation is the same worldwide. There is was using in 2004 to be going to the Niger no Nigerian aviation or another aviation in Delta creeks and be training and transforming England. It is the same rules and regulations militants? Taking them to South Africa, with that govern aviation worldwide. And aviation my own funds, before Shell and other oil is not something you do out of sentiments. companies started to patronise me. Where The truth is that if the Nigerian personnel did I get that money then? I am motivated want to do something, he gets it done. We by the love I have for the country and to are very, very resilient. I will rather work put smile on the face of people. It is not with Nigerians because it will cost me less. only when you amass billions that you can I don’t have to pay a hotel accommodation help others. The little you have you can for him. I don’t have to give him tickets put it out there for the service of humanity. every two months to go home. I don’t have No one goes to the grave with his wallet. I to worry about what happens with incessant am not going to go to my grave with the rotations. He gives me 11 months in the size of my bank account. That has been year and takes his one month leave. Some my philosophy my whole life. And because of the expatriates in some places do six people cannot comprehend that philosophy, months, one month on, one month off. So in they now try to ascribe all manner of things a year, they work for six months and earn to it. But let them think back that right from the salary of 12 months. In some places, my youthful days, I have been like this. they do two months on, eight weeks off; Right from secondary school, I was sharing that is like two months on, it is the same my provisions given to me by my parents thing. So, most times they give you less with the less privileged ones around me. So, than what you bargained for because they it has continued like that and that is what have to go home. So sometimes the best gives me joy. It gives me joy to touch other you could get out of them is maybe eight people’s lives irrespective of their status. months in 12 months. While the Nigerian I love humanity irrespective of your race, worker will stay here 11 months for you creed, tribe, religion, gender, name it. I don’t and go take his one month leave. So for discriminate. So they should save their breath. every business person and for the sake of It is not that Air Peace has a lot of money, economics, I prefer the Nigerian worker. but what we are making; I don’t divert it However, we should not kid ourselves. Onyema to anything else. I put it back to the airline There are some technical areas, we still need and I keep on believing God. It is just God foreigners who have been there, who must joke about people’s lives by being forced increase their wages, ranging from 10 per that is doing most things for us and we have been well tested to help us. There is to take just anybody. You cannot just make cent, to 100 percent. Some people got 100 keep on putting it back to the staff. nothing wrong there. The world of aviation anybody a captain overnight. per cent increase, some others 80 per cent, The banks have been very, very helpful does not really say this is from here, or like that, depending on where the person to us, believing in us. Let people don’t this is from there, it is about the technical In these hard times when corporate level is. So that is what we did. We are bother themselves about me. Let them know-how, especially in engineering. We organisations in the aviation industry not doing it for show; we are doing it bother themselves about their nation and still need to put our acts together. Nigerian are thinking about how to survive and because we believe that is best way to put how they could contribute in building it. I engineers are very good and when they right size you recently increased the salary smiles on the faces of the workers. This have played my part and I am very proud want to be good, they are good. However, of your workers, what motivated you? is because every Nigerian working takes of what I am doing for my country. the world has become a global village. For My motivation comes from God Almighty. care of about five to 10 other persons, no the Nigerian personnel my advice is that I have told Nigerians and the world at large matter his salary. And we are talking about The salary increase will certainly you perfect yourself in your field instead of that I created Air Peace because of the love insecurity today, which is exacerbated by motivate your workers, but before this putting money first. So, we need to balance of my country, just to create jobs. I went lack of jobs; so creating jobs should not be increase, were you satisfied with the it. But in balancing, I challenge the Nigerian into airline business because it creates a left for government alone. workers’ output? workforce to be up to speed. They have to lot of jobs. So I am actualising my dream So it is my belief that every citizen must I cannot sit down here and say that I am bend down and get the knowledge, acquaint of empowering my fellow citizens. So, my contribute to the well-being of the country. 100 per cent happy with the work ethic of themselves with new skills. We have fantastic own interest is to touch lives, not to line This is my own idea in the face of the current everybody. There are some people in the Nigerian engineers but their number is not my pocket. It is not as if we are making challenges we are facing as a country. I system that are doing their best; but there enough. When we brought BCT Aviation profit in our operations, but I said it in decided to do this so that I put hope back are some others that will need to be pushed of UK to be maintaining our Boeing 737s 2014, during launch that I am looking in the people and in our staff. You could before they do anything. But that cannot when we started in 2014, one year down forward to a Nigerian airline through Air see their joy when they learnt about the stop me from doing my own beat. I must the line, they brought a very young chap; Peace that will one day declare profit and increase; they ran amok with joy. Those live up to my own obligations. My own he should be about 22 years then and we share it among staff. I am looking forward who can should give our fellow citizens obligation to them is to make sure their were not happy that they brought that kind to a Nigerian airline where the workers in the hope to believe in our country. So, I welfare is improved. I will do mine then; of person here. He cut his engineering teeth generations to come will be able to say my call on everybody both in government if anybody fails to do what he is expected in Nigeria. But do you know that within one great, great grandfather worked in Air Peace, and the private sector, whatever you can to do, then we will show the person the year, this guy became something else. He my grandfather worked in Air Peace, my do, do. At this point in time Air Peace is way out. But first of all, you must tell became so good that he was everywhere. own father worked in Air Peace, here I am still recruiting people. If I am doing this yourself, you have done that which you He worked round the clock, learning the working for Air Peace. So it is the legacy business because I want to make money, are supposed to do. We have even over job and before you knew it, he became a that matters to me. So, I want to make there is no money in aviation. I won’t do done ours, and that is why you see them certified engineer. Before you knew it, he people just work not for the sake of working, some of the things I am doing. I do it for excitedly running amok. And they couldn’t became marketable worldwide that even BCT but to earn their livelihood in a respectable love of my country; I am doing it for the believe what they are seeing. What I did lost him. They lost him to the Presidency of way from where they are doing the work. love of humanity. That is my motivation. was reinforcing their hope. I believe in the one of the countries abroad. He was about So, I looked at the hardship around and hope that the future will be better. So, let’s 22 years, meanwhile he met some Nigerians everything, and I decided whatever little What comes to people’s mind now is prepare for the future now. who were already answering engineer and we have, let’s push it back to the staff. where you are getting this money from Yes, we have forgiven some of our pilots he overtook them. So these are issues that Operation is very difficult now, we have if you are not making money from the who left. They also helped in building Air we have. And we have to be careful about about almost 20 planes stranded abroad, airlines? Peace in the past. But when the time came expatriate quota and the local content when depleting our capacity to do what we know Yes, a lot of people will talk and I have for loyalty some of them were not loyal. They it gets to aviation. For example, Nigerian how best. Before COVID-19, we were doing become an object of blackmail in the country. did not believe in what we showed to them pilot community is one of the best in the about 120 flights daily; now we are doing A lot of people try to blackmail me, especially after the lockdown was lifted. But they have world. Nigerian pilots have gotten it so about 40 to 45; yet I decided to recall every since that American case. Some will come seen now that we didn’t disappoint them. right; they could fly for anybody in the staff. Not only recalling every staff four to you and say we will do this, publish So we left our doors open for them. And world. They are good. However, they are months ago, I restated them to pre-COVID this against you if you don’t bring money, we have forgiven them, they are coming not enough. So when they say there are a lot salaries. And now I decided that we should we will do this. I have really suffered. And back, a lot of them will come back into the of pilots in Nigeria that are not employed, fold. Air Peace is where they actually belong they may be referring to pilots who have even though they are in other places now; just graduated from training school and who their heart and soul are still with Air Peace. have 200 hours from flying school. You can Nigerian pilot community is one of the best in They are coming back not because of the hardly have a captain that is unemployed. money per se, but because some of them We are talking about Captains here, not the world. Nigerian pilots have gotten it so right; have realized that there was no reason for those young ones that just passed out of what happened to have happened. The school. They are not enough. We should not they could fly for anybody in the world airline has been very truthful to them. THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 21

   

‘Why Poor Air Connectivity in Africa May Persist’

important than prestige,” he said. Mendis acknowledged that airfares in Africa are relatively high, which discourages high passenger traffic and attributed it to the high cost of operation and taxes. “A big reason why airfares in Africa are high is that the infrastructure doesn’t permit utility of the assets as much as it does elsewhere. “Whether it is security concerns or lack of lighting, etc.; most airlines have only a 12-hour window from sunrise to sunset in which they can reasonably fly most of their aircraft and as a result the cost of owning the aircraft can only be spread over 50-75 per cent of the amount of hours that you can run that same aircraft in Europe or North America. “When you add to that the general cost of basic utilities and logistics in Africa (example, Sean-Mendis backup generators due to poor electricity, the need to truck fuel from refineries instead Chinedu Eze of pipelines connecting airports, etc.) then these costs add up and make things more When the Single African Air Transport Market expensive,” he said. (SAATM) was launched in January 2018, it Mendis noted that despite the Yamoussoukro was enthusiastically embraced as the key that Decision, SAATM and other initiatives, many would unlock air travel in Africa. African states have signed up to the letter, but Although 33 countries in the continent are not to the principle of liberalisation because signatories to the project, industry observ- they want to take advantage of the benefits of ers are not optimistic that many countries in these single markets, but without reciprocity. Africa would open their airspace for a single “SAATM is not a buffet - states can’t just air market in the continent. help themselves to the juicy meat, and leave the Commercial aviation expert and former stale rice for their counterparts. State subsidies Chief Operating Officer, African World Airlines are the most blatant form of anti-competitive (AWA), Sean Mendis who spoke to THISDAY activity and protectionism seen in African on air connectivity in the continent, identified aviation today. many impediments that would frustrate the “Too many African governments continue success of SAATM. to skew the market by throwing funds at atro- He noted that currently most airlines in ciously run failed entities with bad business Africa, especially in the West, Central and cases, thus crowding out private sector players South Africa exist precariously because of and discouraging investment and innovation,” many factors. These , include the inability Mendis observed. to access funds. He confirmed that the charges throughout So, without strong and efficient airlines, these the region are high, which he attributed to carriers would not be able to maximise the the availability and cost of utility. benefits of the single sky offered by SAATM, He added that the radar system or run- he said. way construction or air traffic control tower “The lack of access to local capital on reason- infrastructure costs basically the same to able terms means that most African airlines are run whether there are five flights/day or funded by entities that lack expertise in aviation 500 flights/day, suggesting that when the and often have different or even conflicting region is able to increase the volume of flight priorities for their investments (e.g. govern- operations, it can now spread these costs over ments, multi-industry conglomerates, high a larger base and then reduce the cost paid net worth individuals, etc.). “This variable per operation. focus is a big reason why so many African “Then you see the huge subsidies that some airlines fail within their first five years,” he said. countries are giving their national airlines. Even Mendis noted that African governments tend in the ECOWAS region Air got 68m to view air transport as a luxury and hence a Euro subsidy last year, Air Cote D’Ivoire got soft target for increased taxation, high user 120 million Euro over five years Rwandair is fees, and subsidies to failing national carriers, getting over 150 million Euro per year; noting that their focus should instead be on Airways needs nearly $500 million liberalisation and infrastructure development got $90 million with just five or six planes and to encourage investment from the more agile lost $28 million in their first year!” private sector. Mendis disclosed. “Growth in African air travel demand will He said establishment of more national come from the bottom end of the market; carriers in the continent would reinforce primarily newly empowered middle class the ant-competition already existing in the who have increased disposable income. The continent, as government owned airlines, ill- prototypical modern African consumer is managed would enjoy more concessions and young, globalised, and comfortable with other incentives that would not be extended e-commerce. to privately owned carriers, thus setting up “They identify with safety, reliability, and unequal competitive environment. affordability (in that order) as brand values from their preferred carriers. Airlines that can create a legitimate alternative to inefficient ground transport will be the ones who are A big reason why successful. airfares in Africa “Too many African airlines experience early success and become greedy, resulting are high is that in unrealistic expansion plans that eventu- ally lead to failure. Success must stop being the infrastructure defined as running half-empty widebodies to London, Dubai, or Paris. doesn’t permit utility “There will always be a niche to partner with larger international carriers for the ‘last-mile of the assets as much delivery’ within a home region at the early stages of growth. Profitability must be more as it does elsewhere 22 THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ BUSINESSWORLD MARITIME Whither e-Customs Project? Eromosele Abiodun writes that as predicted by stakeholders, the $3.1 billion e-Customs projects appear to have hit the brick wall with the delay in the formal signing of the agreement by parties involved

ate 2019, the federal government approved the engagement of a Motion against Deal consortium of four firms to enter The House of Representatives was also against into a 20-year concession arrangement the project. Chairman of House Committee on with the Nigeria Customs Service Public Petitions, Hon. Jerry Alagbaoso had on (NCS)L and the Infrastructure Concession October 10, 2019, moved a motion that the Regulatory Commission (ICRC) for a Customs deal be investigated modernisation project and establishment of Specifically, he said: “There are some foreign digital and paperless Customs administration. companies who are very eager to sponsor, On September 2, 2020, the Federal Executive finance and provide technical services to what Council (FEC), presided over by President they call the modernisation of Customs, without Muhammadu Buhari, ratified the NCS recourse to the National Assembly. My motion modernisation scheme estimated to cost about is the need to investigate the curious concession $3.1billion. proposed arrangement between the consortium Stakeholders in the industry had kicked Bionica Technologies West Africa Limited, who against the project on the grounds that the are the sponsors; Bergan Security Consultants existing Customs automation platforms could and Supplies, who are co-sponsors, African be upgraded to fit the purpose, rather than Finance Corporation, who are lead financiers wasting a whopping $3.1b on a new project, and Huawei, Nigeria Customs Service and which will start from scratch. Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission Since the ratification of the project by the (ICRC) for customs modernisation project. FEC, there has not been any meaningful “The House is aware that various customs development about its commencement date, modernisation projects in the past. For example, or acquisition of necessary facilities that would in the 90s, the United Nations Conference on aid operations. Trade and Development (UNCTAD) paid for The presidential initiative on the NCS mod- the installation of ASYCUDA++ and training ernisation or “E-Customs Project” requires the of customs officers for three years. establishment of a digital/paperless customs Ali “The House is also aware that the federal gov- administration. The government then approved ernment agreed to engage former pre-shipment the engagement of the consortium composed of smart and emerging technologies to enhance The President, National Council of Manag- companies for valuation and classification of of Bionica Technologies West Africa, Bergan the statutory function of the organisation in ing Directors of Nigerian Licenced Customs goods, hence some service providers namely Security Consultants & Suppliers, Africa Finance the area of revenue generation. Agents (NCMDLCA), Lucky Amiwero, said Webbfontaine, Cotecna, SGS and Globalscan Cooperation and Huawei to establish a project She revealed that the project would be government should always consult experts in were engaged for that purpose. This contract special purpose vehicle to enter into a 20-year financed through Public-Private Partnership the industry before taking such critical action. was to last for seven years, from 2005 to 2012 concession arrangement with NCS and ICRC. (PPP), for a concessionary period of 20 years. He also bemoaned the introduction of a digital when the service providers handed over to However, the move generated a lot of “So, Council has ratified Mr. President’s system, at the expense of existing ones, which Nigeria Customs Service. By 2011, one could say controversy with stakeholders alleging that approval for the PPP concession for a 20-year equally cost the nation millions of naira. the positive effects of this included competent due process was jettisoned. According to them, period to Messers e-Customs HC Project Limited, According to him, “This is just a clear waste and committed workforce for Nigeria Customs the selection of this the consortium was not as a concessionaire for the delivery of Customs of resources because we have an existing e- Service, personnel understanding of the new advertised and no tender was issued for the modernisation project. platform (which means electronically supplied process and benefits to stakeholders.” selection of the best companies. “This is a project that will not have an im- information). That is what they (Customs) are He added, “It resulted to collection of proper Some industry analysts also questioned why mediate cost to the government, the investors using at the moment, and they can upgrade revenue due, elimination of corruption and the government made the move when the are providing all of the financings and this it if it is not up to date. If the license is giving other benefits. The House notes that with these NCS appears to have unlocked the hidden revenue will be deployed in three phases, problems, they can review the whole thing put in place, there exist a one-stop shop which advantage in adopting trade facilitation fol- and they will look over the investment in and make it to suit their expectations. allows all trade transactions to be conducted lowing the Service’s modernisation introduced the concessionary period of 20 years. “By the provision of the agreement between through a single system domiciled with the in December 2013. “The key point is that it is not costing the Webb Fontain, and the Federal Government customs. For example, all other government This modernisation, they believe, gave birth Federal Government anything, the $3.1 billion represented by the Ministry of Finance, they are agencies like NAFDAC, SON and the rest to the introduction of the Nigeria Customs being proposed will be sourced by the sponsors supposed to have transferred the platform back have dissolved into a single platform with Information System (NICIS) in 2014, and and the partners,” she said. to Customs because it is a Customs property. the Nigeria Customs Service. by 2017, the NCS had migrated to NICIS She further said the project would enable What they are using now is e-platform and “In 2011 there was an illegal concession II, a further improvement on their system. the complete automation of the NCS processes they can upgrade it as they deem fit.” between the Federal Ministry of Finance and a Interestingly, through NICIS II, customs has and procedures using the application and Conversely, a finance expert partnering with company with inadequate capital base called generated massive revenue for the country. This information technology in all aspects. the Bionica-led consortium, Ben Okoye said Single Window System and Technologies, is aside being able to have integrated other According to her, the PPP group approved with the new project, the government would signed in secrecy during the government government agencies, such as the National for the project is led by Messers Y Technologies be able to free up resources, which could be transition period and this responsible house Agency for Food, Drug Administration and with four other members. channeled to other areas, activities and projects. of representatives had a public hearing and Control (NAFDAC); Standards organisation of She added, “The Bionica Technologies West “This will in turn support and build the local stopped it to save Nigeria billions of Naira Nigeria (SON); National Drug Law Enforcement Africa Limited, Bargain Securities and Sup- economy of the host communities, through Vide the votes of Wednesday, 13 July 2011, Agency (NDLEA), among others. plies Nigeria Limited are lead sponsor and direct or indirect participation of small and the house. In 2017 another move for customs With the implementation of NICIS II, co-sponsor. We also have The Africa Finance medium-sized companies by affording them the modernisation was made by the Technical importers, clearing agents and some customs Corporation (AFC) as the lead financier, and opportunity to serve as service providers. It will Committee on the Comprehensive Import freight forwarders, were showering the Service Huawei Technology as a technical service also improve the quality of service delivery of Supervision Scheme, purported to be acting with commendations. According to them, the provider.” the NCS as a result of the effective infrastructure on behalf of the Federal Government called NCS had built a robust system especially since Although the minister said the Customs that is in place, and restore consumer confidence Adani Systems Nigeria Limited to modernise, 2017 when it introduced the NICIS II which currently has some of its functions and du- in NCS officials and processes,” he added. maintain, develop the scanning of goods in is centered around a paperless custom, and ties automated, adding: “This is end-to-end On his part, a leader of the National As- the country in line with the pre shipment accommodates various organisation CBN, automation of all of Nigeria’s Customs Service sociation of Government Approved Freight inspection act for a period of 25 years. FMF, SON, NAFDAC, NIACOM Insurance processes and it’s going to bring huge value Forwarders (NAGAFF), who did not want his “Again the attention of Controller General Certificate, NAQS, NSA and FIRS, com- to the country. name in print, said the introduction of e-Customs of Nigeria Customs Service was drawn to this mercial banks and more than 3000 private “So, this investment of $3.1 billion is broken was a duplication of electronic technologies and the concession was stopped. Curious that sector companies (Importers, Shipping lines, down into capital investment of $1.2 billion, that have been promoted by the same Customs in September 2019, another concession, which Airlines, Clearing agents). which will be done in three phases over 36 over the years. will last for twenty years( that is the subject Contrary to stakeholders’ opinion, facilita- months by these investors, and $1.1 billion “We don’t understand what Customs is matter now) is being suggested to Nigeria tors of the project believe it would improve is our projection of the operational cost over doing. They are just deceiving the importing Customs Service, Infrastructure Concession Customs’ clearance efficiency in facilitating the 20-year period of the implementation of public. They already have the National Inte- Regulatory Commission, Federal Ministry trade, stimulating end-user satisfaction, and this project. grated Customs Information System – NICIS of Finance, Federal Ministry of Budget and fostering mutually beneficial relationships “This project has the potential to yield up to II. They started with ASYCUDA 2.7, which Planning, Federal Ministry of Justice and this between consumers and the Customs. $176 billion of revenue and the consortia that means Automated System for Customs Data. agreement is for pro-rata sharing of one percent When implemented, the e-Customs project are providing this investment are going to be We had not completed that process before Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme would encompass, among other things, the paid overtime according to the schedule that they took us to ASYCUDA 3.0., from there, and a $300m investment.” deployment of e-Customs Production Applica- is negotiated for their investments including to ASYCUDA World. Now, we have NICIS “Worried that billions of Naira will be frit- tions, including e-Clearance, e-Port System, Risk their profits and cost. 1, and later NICIS 2. We don’t even know tered away from the account of the one percent Control Centre (RCC), Logistics Management “So, this is the best possible way for Nigeria where one starts, and where it ends. That has Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme System (LMS), Electric Cargo Tracking System to roll out important capital projects using been the problem. They are just confusing the with the Central Bank of Nigeria, regarding (ECTS), Intelligent Gate (i -Gate) and Mobile funds from the private sector, and providing stakeholders. the cost of this latest customs modernisation Enforcement (ME). service for the use of the Nigerian people and “They should just stop these ideas; they are by different parties involved. Further worried the government,” she said. just confusing the importing public. This is a that there is no difference in substance, scope FG’s Position mere strategy to embezzle the government’s and structure between the failed concession The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Stakeholders Disagree money. Let them come out and tell us what attempts of 2011, 2017 and 2019. There is already Planning, Zainab Ahmed, had while appraising Meanwhile, stakeholders in the industry are value the e-Customs will add to our operations. a national single window platform in the Nigeria the project said it has the potential to yield worried that the automation drive, as laudable What we know is that the entire logistic chain Customs Service and officers of the service up to $176 billion in revenue for the country. as it sounds, is a smart way of concessioning is facing a lot of problems, and until we deploy are performing beyond expectations, collecting She said the main objective of the project the Customs, through private business interests. technology to the fullest in the entire cargo duties in billions of naira on daily basis. The was to completely automate every aspect of They also described it as another white clearance process and documentation, we may fact that it failed in 2011, 2017, there is no Customs business and institutionalise the use elephant project and a drainpipe not get it right in this country,” he said. way it cannot fail in 2019, “Alagbaoso said. THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 23

BUSINESSWORLD NEWS NDPHC, Eko Disco to Boost NIWA, Police Move to Enhance Power Supply to , Agbara Security of Cargo In order to improve electricity ration between NDPHC and ensure dispatch of its stranded Eromosele Abiodun of cargo shipments from Lagos to the South East of the country.” supply around the Ibeju-Lekki Eko Disco will complement power generation capacity and to Onitsha River Port in a bid to Moghalu thanked the IGP area in Lagos and Agbara the current policies of the state explore innovative ways to The Managing Director of the decongest the Ports in Lagos State. for the cooperation the force Industrial area in Ogun State, government in economic and unlock investment in infra- Nigerian Inland Waterways According to Moghalu, “the had been rendering to NIWA the Niger Delta Power Hold- infrastructure development. structure for improved supply Authority (NIWA), Dr. George purpose of our visit is to seek Inland Police Command, and ing Company (NDPHC) and The NDPHC and Eko Disco to customers.” Moghalu, has appealed for the for collaboration and cooperation also appealed for more coopera- Eko Electricity Distribution committed to work together to In turn, the MD of Eko cooperation of the Nigeria Police of the police force to build a tion in some areas of challenges Company Plc (Eko Disco) have deliver safe, reliable and steady Disco, Engr. Adeoye Fadeyibi in securing cargo transportation synergy in our inland waterways the Authority is facing such as; signed a bilateral agreement supply of power to customers said the partnership aligns from Lagos to Onitsha via the operations, most importantly lack of gun boats, accouterment for the sale of up to 300MW in the areas of collaboration. with the efforts of the Eko waterways. now that we are about to com- and anti-riot equipment. of power from NDPHC’s “The project will be Disco to bridge the metering Moghalu made the appeal mence the second phase of the He called on the IGP to help power plants to customers structured to remove the gap and improve the quality of when he paid a working visit test-run of shipping cargoes from vacate some police officials il- in these areas within Eko commercial and technical electricity supply to customers. to the Inspector General of the Lagos to Onitsha.” legally occupying some of the Disco’s franchise areas. inefficiencies in the Nigerian He appreciated customers Police (IGP), Usman Alkali Baba, The NIWA boss added, organisation’s premises which The Lagos State Governor, electricity market and will for their continued support for at the force’s headquarters in “NIWA is a federal agency by law is under NIWA’s right Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who mobilise significant capital the Company in its quest to Abuja. saddled with the responsibility of of way at Onitsha Area Office; hosted the signing of the agree- investment in transmission/ continue to empower the qual- The visit, he stated, was part regulating and developing activi- so that the authority can make ment for the projects in Lagos, distribution infrastructure ity of lives of all stakeholders. of the protective measures taken ties on the Inland waterways of better use of the place. recently, was quoted in a and metering technology,” “The agreement signed by NIWA in order to have a the nation with a headquarter He congratulated Baba statement to have commended the statement added. between NDPHC and Eko seamless exercise in the shipment in Lokoja, . over his appointment by the the initiative by NDPHC and In his remarks, the NDPHC Disco is only the latest mile- of cargoes from Lagos Ports to “We have 22 area offices across President, and wished him a Eko Disco, saying, he, “will Managing Director/CEO, Mr. stone in NDPHC’s innovative Onitsha River Port. the nation and waterways links successful tenure. monitor the implementation Chiedu Ugbo, stated that the and ambitious programme Moghalu sought for the col- across 28 states in the federation. Responding, Alkali Baba of the agreement.” challenges in the industry to tackle the industry-wide laboration and corporation of Statistics have shown that about thanked the MD of NIWA and The governor expressed inspired NDPHC to, “source challenges in the Nigerian the police in providing adequate sixty percent of cargoes coming his management team for the confidence that the collabo- alternative means to sell and power sector.” security for the second test-run into Nigerian Ports are destined visit. 24 THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ

BUSINESSWORLD ANALYSIS Now that Elumelu Has Ventured into Insurance Sector Obinna Chima writes on the entrance of Heirs Insurance Limited and Heirs Life Assurance Limited’s into Nigeria’s insurance sector he paradox of the Nigerian insurance simplifying our customers’ lives. Our mission market is such that both pessimists is simple: make insurance accessible. and optimists have valid arguments. “Our goal is to transform customer service: The pessimists view the insurance cutting waiting time in claims processing industry as one with a long history and purchase to bare minutes — across all Tof underperformance, an Industry relegated to touchpoints, including mobile devices. At Heirs the background in a financial services sector Insurance, we want to give our customers that has produced more prosperous industries what they have so often lacked – high quality such as banking and pensions. insurance, at an affordable price – and with Optimists on the other hand argue that an insurer that is on their side.” Nigeria remains a largely underdeveloped On his part, the MD/CEO, Heirs Life, Niyi insurance market that can become a new Onifade, said: “Our goal is to integrate life frontier for growth, according to a report by insurance products into people’s daily lives Lagos-based pan-African credit rating agency, to create financial inclusion and bring quality Agusto & Co. financial services to the many, not just the few. Interestingly, it noted that both sides of the “This way, we empower people to live more divide would often refer to Nigeria’s meagre confidently and achieve their dreams, whilst one per cent insurance penetration rate, which securing the future of their loved ones. Heirs indicates that only about three million Nigerians is all about giving our clients financial security. out a population of more than 200 million As people build wealth, we want them to have any form of insurance whatsoever. know that they have a partner in Heirs Life, “At the root of these failings are age-old providing financial support throughout their challenges of poor regulatory enforcement, weak life.” corporate governance and risk management framework and general inefficiencies within Expectations the Industry. Sanwo-Olu, who commended Elumelu, said “The greatest of these inefficiencies would coming out of the pandemic, there was need possibly be the dearth of innovation. The level for increased collaboration with the private of product innovation in the insurance industry sector. pales in comparison to the banking industry He said: “We need to encourage the private which has adopted several simple technologi- sector because they are the real engines of cal driven solutions that are being replicated growth; we need to acknowledge that no matter across the globe today, such as SMS based how well the government does, we certainly and online transaction notifications as well Elumelu cannot employ everybody that needs to be as USSD based funds transfer mechanisms,” employed and the private sector are the ones the report added. that insurance-to-GDP improves. In most other business of development up to our govern- that can create opportunities for our businesses That was why cheers greeted the entrance economies, insurance companies own banks. ments, donor countries and philanthropic and they are the ones that can grow the GDP. of Heirs Insurance Limited and Heirs Life “Finally, I want to say that we are coming with organisations alone,” Elumelu said, adding “Heirs Insurance and Heirs Life are bringing Assurance Limited’s into Nigeria’s insurance a strong track record, not just on governance, that, “the private sector must be involved in freshness and new beginning to the sector and sector as the doors of both companies were last but on business success and business turn the business of development.” they have said to us that they are going to week officially opened for business in Lagos. around and most importantly, wealth creation Africa is one of the fastest-growing continents be simple, they are going to use technology The ceremony also saw the unveiling of the for all. in the world. The continent growth profile to drive insurance and that it is going to be Heirs Towers, a new edifice by Heirs Holdings. “We believe that prosperity should be is among other things, driven by its rapidly affordable. The event had in attendance, the Governor democratised; success for us will not only expanding consumer markets as well as its “I am convinced that Heirs Life and Heirs of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; the be felt by the shareholders, but would be felt private sector. Insurance would certainly change the insurance Commissioner for Insurance, Mr. Sunday by everybody, including our communities as Nevertheless, Africa’s share of world trade landscape. With the array of men on the board Thomas; Chairman of Heirs Holdings and we strive to eradicate poverty.” remains low with a very small fraction of and management team, it is clear to me that Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Indeed, Elumelu believes that empowering global foreign direct investment flows. you will bring your wealth of experience to Mr. Tony Elumelu; bank chief executives as African entrepreneurs in the continent would The promoter of Africapitalism strongly drive this company and take this sector to well as other business executives. be essential for the continent’s development. believe that African youths, if given the required greater heights.” Heirs Holdings which is promoted by Africa’s He introduced the phrase ‘Africapitalism,’ support can compete with their peers in the Thomas, also commended Elumelu over entrepreneur and philanthropist, Elumelu, is a an approach to business that creates wealth global market. his decision to play in the insurance sector as family owned investment company spanning and in which philanthropy can be used to This is also expected to lift the continent out well as his decision to contribute to building the financial services, power, oil and gas, real create value. of its present economic predicament and help the insurance sector. estate and hospitality and healthcare. Africapitalism is also an economic phi- reposition the continent after this pandemic. “The timing of this launch could not have Its operations are rooted in the economic losophy that embodies the private sector’s “I am a bit concerned about the challenges that been more auspicious in view of the fact philosophy of Africapitalism which proposes commitment to the economic transformation stare us in the face and we must do something that NAICOM has been rolling out various private sector-led long-term investment in of Africa through investments that generate now or it will be very challenging. The major developmental initiatives aimed at deepening Africa by Africans. both economic prosperity and social wealth. thing is unemployment. It is a major challenge insurance penetration in the country. With the In his opening remarks at the unveiling The founder of the TEF argues that Africa’s in Africa,” he added. capitalisation of these companies (Heirs Life ceremony, Elumelu who is the Chairman of renaissance lies in the confluence of the right He also noted that a survey had shown and Heirs Insurance), I have no doubt that Heirs Insurance, thanked the National Insurance business and political action and insists that that the continent requires about 200 million the Nigerian insurance market is poised to Commission (NAICOM) for granting operating job creation for the youth, inclusive growth, jobs, a gap the TEF has been striving to fill. write big ticket risks. licences to both organisations. and gender diversity are priority areas for “So if we succeed in creating the enabling “We want to minimise outflows and conserve He pledged to deepen insurance penetration Africa’s development agenda as well as to environment, SMEs would do well. If we foreign exchange for national development. Let in the country as well as change the insurance achieve peace and stability in the continent. succeed in providing access to electricity as me quickly state that the commission expects landscape. He has consistently advocated that Africa’s we are doing, SMEs will do well. that the affairs of these companies would be He said: “Let me say that the journey that private sector can and must play a leading “If we succeed in bridging access to finance conducted in consonance with extant insurance started seven years ago has finally materialised. role in the continent’s development. to SMEs, they will do well and as they do sector corporate governance guidelines and It is good when our policymakers, regulators This concept, as enunciated by its increasingly well, there would be a direct correlation with other directives. and public sector leaders begin to understand expanding literature, includes: emphasising creating wealth for Africa. So to us, the future “The independence of the board and its that for us to eradicate poverty, both the private entrepreneurship that will unlock the powers is good, but we need to do something about committees, including ensuring adequate and public sector must work together.” of individuals to create and grow their business unemployment,” he added. disclosures and transparency are required of According to him, by approving the licences ideas into successful companies; long-term This thinking is expected to be the guiding these companies. Let me state here that the for both companies, the regulator has helped investment, and especially in strategic sectors; principles of the new insurance companies. commission is now more determined to ensure to create more jobs in the country and improve conducting investments and business activity professionalism and high ethical standards to the country’s tax revenue. in a manner that delivers financial returns Pledging Superior Services protect the integrity of the Nigerian insurance He stated that over the years, Nigerians to shareholders as well as economic and The Acting MD/CEO, Heirs Insurance, Dr. industry,” Thomas added. have been yearning for insurance companies social benefit to stakeholders; and facilitating Adaobi Nwakuche, has promised that her Therefore, judging from the antecedents of its that will offer excellence and superior services, intra-regional commerce and trade through organisation would through innovation and Chairman, it is expected that the new insurance which would be digitally-driven. the development of national and cross-border technology, change the face of the insurance companies would contribute towards efforts to He added: “These are what Heirs Insurance physical infrastructure, and the harmonisation sector. deepen insurance penetration in the country. and Heirs Life Assurance would bring to of policies and practices, among many others. She said: “We are delivering insurance that It is believed that opportunities abound for our people. I want to say to you (Thomas) “Africapitalism means we cannot leave the is easy to understand, quick and reliable, retail insurance penetration in the country as our regulator, we have a track record of which Heirs Life and Heirs Insurance must governance, best tradition of compliance and leverage on the brand strength and network making sure that you (Thomas) looking back of its promoters to tap into. even when you retired, you will be very proud We believe that prosperity should be democratised; The companies must also develop attractive that you signed off these licences for these success for us will not only be felt by the insurance packages for all segment of the society two companies. in order to beat competition as well as to find “To the general public, we believe that shareholders, but would be felt by everybody, its way to the top of the industry. our economy is the biggest in Africa, yet In addition, they must embrace discipline, insurance-to-Gross Domestic Product (GDP) including our communities as we strive to eradicate corporate governance and industry best practices is insignificant. We need to work with the so as to maintain the trust of customers and regulator and other stakeholders to make sure poverty all other stakeholders. NEWS METRO WEEKLY MAGAZINE THISLIFE THIS ART WEEKEND ENTERTAINMENT

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi [email protected] WEEKEND 07010510430 TONI KAN@50

The Golden Age of a Wordsmith 26 THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ COVER TONI KAN@50 :The Golden Age of a Wordsmith

Born Anthony Kan Onwordi, the award-winning writer popularly known by his pen name, Toni Kan, is one of the most formidable wordsmiths to have transversed the world of journalism, public relations and literature. A Master’s degree holder in English Literature from the University of Lagos, he became a magazine editor at 26 and left journalism to pursue a career in communications and public relations. He has also worked in the banking, telecommunications, and publishing industries. Toni Kan is the author of six books, including the story collection ‘Nights of the Creaking Bed,’ edited The Sunday Sun Revue, a literary supplement and recently co-edited ‘Who’s Who in Yoruba Pantheon.’ He has received many accolades, including the Ken Saro Wiwa NNDC Prize and a writing fellowship from the Heinrich Böll Foundation. As he clocks 50 today, he shares some exciting as well as bittersweet moments of his golden years in an interview with Yinka Olatunbosun

et me start by saying my or just starting out. I left for the bank in my know someone who knows someone who can first encounter with you early 30s to work in communications and it make it happen. That is why my friends call was with your writing- then was easy because by then many of my peers me “The Mayor of Lagos”. The Financial Times you had a column at Hints were becoming editors so I did not have to even described me as “The Lagos Panglosian”. Magazine. You have conve- speak too much grammar to get heard. Today, So, you could say I am in love with this small niently carved a niche for as co-owner of a PR firm, I am dealing with but big and confounding city and that love Lyourself as a very bold writer, unafraid those same peers, many of whom now own affair reflects in my almost compulsive need to explore sexuality which was almost their own online publications. It is still easy to to capture slices of it in my writing as often like a taboo at that time. How did you deal with them. God has been good. as I can. manage to do that? Did you receive any backlash when you started? Once, at TEDtalks, you spoke about the You have co-written several books with I started writing for Hints as a 21 year old influence of your mother in your career as Peju Akande. How does it feel like to have undergraduate. I was young, brash and unafraid. a child and how you overcame stuttering. a collaborator like her and what are some My mantra was “Wetin dem go do me?” and I What do you miss most about your mom? of the things that had made your collabora- even anchored a column called “Shit n Stuff”. My mother died on October 16, 2020 after tive projects succeed despite individual It is funny though how everyone talks about a long battle with Alzheimer’s and it is the differences? Hints and my name crops up. I did not start biggest loss of my life because she was my first Peju Akande and I were classmates at the Hints neither did I introduce risqué stories. love. My mother made me the man I am today University of Jos. Her mother introduced us Hints Magazine was already nine years old while my father gave me the gift of books that over 30 years ago, so our friendship and love for or so, when I joined. I guess my name keeps made me the writer I am. each other goes back a long way. That friendship popping up because I did a good job of it. I I have talked about coming to Lagos with a has now become a business partnership and was hired by Kayode Ajala and Reuben Abati. stutter and realizing that in a city where things it is one of mutual respect. Partnerships are Many people do not remember or realise that happen at dizzying speed, I could not afford to hard and I can tell you sad personal stories but Reuben Abati worked at Hints. Yes. I had won stutter. So, my mother set to praying and that because there is friendship and mutual respect, an award organised by the British Council Toni Kan stutter disappeared. It sounds funny but if you we make it work. We co-own six thriving busi- and my prize was some money and summer are in PR where you have to give two minute nesses and have at the last count co-written school at the University of Edinburgh. It was before THISDAY came and changed the game. elevator pitches to busy executives, a stutter and ghost written 10 books with three more a competition for Nigerian undergraduates I was earning a good salary. I had an official can be an impediment. I miss her everyday; her on the way. I couldn’t have wished for a better and I came second in Nigeria. car and housing allowance. My salary may physical and spiritual beauty, her sense of style, partner. not seem like much now but back then it was her kindness and generosity, her cleanliness While I was getting ready to go to Eng- a lot for a journalist and I didn’t even realise and her loving heart. I could go on and on. How does it feel to be 50? land, my good friend and roommate Ralph it until year 2000 or so. An editor friend of Well, I don’t really know what it feels like. I Bruce introduced me to the duo. They took mine had just left his paper and wanted me What other factors contributed to the still use my glasses and have my usual backache a liking to me and said: “When you come to take over his position. When I asked how person you are today? which I have had since 23. I went for my annual back, come and write for us.” much it paid, he said N19,000. I was shocked Those who know me know that I always check-up in May and doctors said everything Hints Magazine published anonymous stories because my salary was almost four times that. like to talk about the kindness of friends checked out right but I should make some which they called “true life stories.” I recall He graduated from Jos almost 10 years before and strangers. My friend Ralph Bruce and lifestyle changes. So, I am taking my exercising that I was writing six of those every month as me and was a title editor. I sent someone else his family, especially his mother, Ma Reggie, more seriously and jogging five kilometers a an undergraduate. I wrote good stories that to meet him and take the job. have had a huge impact in my life. They day and cutting down on alcohol. I am also resonated and that was the beginning. There showed me love when I needed it and took learning to rest more and not get stressed. If was really no backlash except for young girls Online journalism seems to give owners me into their home when I needed a roof you are 50 in this Nigeria and you don’t have caught reading the magazine. Many people of traditional media a run for their money. over my head. My father’s huge library high blood pressure, you are among the lucky remember the risqué and sexy stories but I also How can these media owners rise to the introduced me to books and writing and few. I am thankful to God. did tear jerkers. It is funny though because, as occasion in terms of news content and helped turn my love of books and reading I said, the stories I wrote alongside others like speedy delivery of news? into a love for writing and a career. Today, What kind of Nigeria did you expect Grace Orji, David Njoku, Chim Newton, Terh Many traditional media owners came late with over 20 books to my name, I cannot to see at 50? Agbedeh, Stella Dimoko Korkus, Chidinma to the game and were left flatfooted by the speak of myself as a writer without thanking Not this one, my sister. I wake up and I go Awa Agwu, Peter Okwoche, Terh Agbedeh emergence and growth of online publishing and acknowledging my father. to bed anxious. The insecurity is crazy. On were anonymous yet everyone assumes I wrote but today, especially in the past five years and my last trip home, I spent almost N100,000 on all of it. I guess it shows that I did a good job more so in the last one year with COVID-19 You have always wanted to write about transport over a few days because I couldn’t especially with my column while at Hints. decimating newspapers and their pages, there Lagos and you did in several books. Why travel with my car. I had every opportunity to is now scant difference between traditional do you have such passion for Lagos? move abroad when many of my friends did What difference can you draw between (printed) and online because almost all newspa- I was 10 when I first came to Lagos on but I wanted to stay here and make something the environment for writers in Nigeria pers now have online versions which are doing holiday and it blew my mind. I was staying of myself. I have but it’s so hard to enjoy life when you started and how it is right now? very well too. So, the boundaries are blurring. with an uncle in Dopemu and hours after I and your hard work in a fraught environment It has changed a lot. Now, young writers I don’t think traditional media owners should arrived Lagos my curiosity had drawn me like this. I pray for Nigeria every day. have a lot of options from blogs to websites be rushing to compete because the truth is outside and right by our fence was a dead body and social media; from television to radio and many discerning readers prefer and trust the with people walking past it like it was a piece You are quite a private person. Tell us all sorts. These are options that can provide an traditional media more. And I speak with some of garbage. That had a profound effect on me a bit more about your family. avenue to readership and fame for good writers, confidence because my partner, Peju Akande coming as I had from Bendel State where people I am separated from my wife and going if you will. We didn’t have those back then. And and I, came into the game in 2014 when we were more communal. Then I remember visiting through a divorce. I am saying this publicly back then very few publications were available launched sabinews.com which we sold in a Bar Beach and running mad just seeing the for the first time because I am 50 and wetin to pay a young 21-year old undergraduate. groundbreaking deal in 2018. So, the landscape waves and what seemed like a million people go happen? As I turn 50, I realise that this is Things have changed a whole lot. has changed dramatically but I don’t believe frolicking. In fact, I have just finished a book the biggest failure of my life and it hurts daily newspapers (printed edition) will disappear of poems memorialising Bar Beach. but some things just have to end. I have three Looking back to your journalism days, completely even though they are being given My parents moved to Lagos in ‘92 and we biological children and many adopted. I live for many would argue that the condition of a tough time. have lived here ever since. My state of mind my family. I am from Ibusa in . I have service was better at your time. Would back then was “anxiety” but I learnt to navigate two degrees in literature from the Universities you agree to that? Would you say that journalism prepared the city as a journalist and today I stalk it as if I of Jos and Lagos. I also own a media training I don’t know for sure but I had a good time you for PR practice? own it. There are very few people and places I school. I don’t know anyone who works and at Hints until I didn’t anymore. I was probably Yes. It did. I was Editor of Hints at 26. Back don’t know in Lagos and if you want anything plays as hard as I do. I am just kidding. That’s one of the highest paid editors in Nigeria then, then, many of my age mates were reporters done here or you want to meet someone I the private me, in a nutshell. THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 27  Mazi Sam Azoka Onyechi Becomes Nigeria Meets Uganda, as Bishop Adebayo OGTAN New President The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Inspection and Tests Ni- Babalola’s Son Marries Heartthrob geria Limited, Mazi Sam Azoka Onyechi, was recently installed Stories by Mary Nnah When the church ceremony was over, the sanctified new new president of the Oil and couple led their guests in a long Gas Trainers Association of Samuel Oluwasegun Ba- convoy, to the glittering, well Nigeria (OGTAN) during the balola, penultimate Saturday, decorated hall of The Coliseum, association’s annual conference wore his heart on his sleeves an upscale popular event and lecture series held in Lagos. for his equally young lovely centre in Lekki. The wedding Onyechi took over from Dr. bride, Sylvia Anjolaoluwa as Mayowa Afe who had proudly OGTAN outgoing president, Dr. reception, just like the church Mayowa Afe, decorating the newly he tied the nuptial knot at the ceremony, had everything announced that he had gone be- Flaming Sword Ministries in order. And because of the yond the target of the 10-point installed president, Mazi Sam Azo- aka Chapel of the Overtakers, COVID-19 restrictions, the agenda he set for himself four ka Onyechi during the event Lafiaji, Obalende, Lagos. number of guests that attended years ago when he took over Handsomely dressed, his was equally restricted. But that the mantle of leaders from the then president. sparkling white and black co- didn’t reduce the happiness or Over the years, OGTAN has been blessed with great lour combination stood him out the beauty of the celebration. leadership starting from the pioneer president and current and got him admiration from It was a day for dance and chairman of board, Prof Mike Onyekonwu to the energetic all the guests at his wedding. Nigeria meets Uganda… couple flanked by groom’s parents, Bishop and the gorgeously dressed guests outgoing president, Afe, all of whom have worked tirelessly He waited patiently with his Mrs. Adebayo Babalola during the event were not in a hurry to go, they to bring OGTAN to where it is today. friends, the groomsmen, in their waited to see who danced most Onyechi during his acceptance speech said, “As part of our stylish suits, for his bride to ar- But why Uganda? That’s flowed unto the couple from all as the Nigerian culture and the take-off target, in addition to completing all other projects rive the serene white painted where Samuel Oluwasegun Ba- directions as one minister Ugandan culture blended easily of the last exco, of which we were largely part of, we will be and decorated auditorium of balola’s bride hails from. They after the other gave their at the wedding reception. hosting several OGTAN lectures series designed to announce the church. had met outside Nigeria, during prayers and blessings. The families, the parent’s OGTAN member companies and the numerous industry and And when Sylvia arrived, she his sojourn abroad. And guess Love confessed, rings dance was glamorously co- academic relevant training that should change the industry in her glittering wedding gown what, they were so into each exchanged, Mr and Mrs. lourful. The dance steps were and nation but which hitherto have been growing old in the and her array of bridesmaids, other that Sylvia introduced Samuel Oluwasegun Baba- pleasant for many to see. Who portfolios of our members seeking platforms under which all daintily dressed in pink him to all the beautiful things lola emerged as the newest danced more than the other? they will be advertised and use to impact lives.” satin dress, of different styles, of Uganda. Now Babalola eats couple in town. It was a Bishop Adebayo Babalola or He stressed further that of equally high importance to his all the way from Uganda, they most of the delicious dishes that day for songs of praise and the wife? Who won during the administration was the certification of OGTAN secretariat and came with joy and infectious Uganda has to offer and now dances. And the dance for dance session between the two management to ISO 9001:2015 and follow up of accreditation smiles that set the pace for the he knows all by their names! the new couple, started families? The Asio family from of her series to relevant international standards with a view ceremony of the day, and the With so many top Ministers of right there in the church Uganda or the Babalola family to improving her value addition to the industry. joy of celebration that was God inside the church for the oc- where the groom’s father, from Nigeria? During its annual conference OGTAN conferred on fie of its witnessed throughout the day. casion, the blessings of the day is the presiding Bishop. members the fellowship award of OGTAN as well as honoured the Minister of state for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Ham Beauty Fair Makes Its Debut, as Esther Marlin Sylva with the “The Gas Decade Personality Award”. Biade is Unveiled Brand Ambassador Fifth Chukker, Intershelter Triumph at Access Lagos is about to witness one what we have in store.” Bank-UNICEF Charity Polo Tournament of the biggest beauty fairs in With about 100 exhibitor First stage of the prestigious 2021 UNICEF Charity Shield Nigeria and also a great cause spaces and an estimated 10,000 polo tourney climaxed on high with triumphs for Fifth Chuk- that will add unspeakable attendees, the organisers as- ker and Intershelter teams as the international charity event value to the beauty sector – sure participants that the fair enters its final stages penultimate Tuesday, with nine team The Makeup, and Skincare will follow laid down COVID jostling for honours. (HAMS) Beauty Fair. event protocols for the two Home fans favourites, fifth Chukkers handed a thumping Organised by TOUV con- days. Attendees should expect 11-7 defeat over hard fighting Jos Malcomines, to clinch the cepts, the maiden edition of to see some already registered glittering Access Bank Cup, just Intershelter secured a closed the HAMS fair will hold from international brands as well 6-4 victory for their first UNICEF Cup title. August to 8, 2021 at the outer as some leading local Nigerian Both finals that were decided before a capacity crowd at ballroom of the prestigious brands that will be unveiling the foremost Kangimi Resort in Kaduna saw Fifth Chukker Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria new products, technologies, scoring three quick goals in the opening chukka and go all the Island, Lagos. and special packages. way for another Access Bank Cup title. The fair which promises to be L-R: Fair Convener, Oge Obiefuna; HAMS Beauty Fair Spokesperson, Es- Spokesperson for the HAMS The grand finale stage of the international that has raised a world class event, will feature Beauty Fair, Esther Biade said, ther Biade and Communication Partner, Oma Areh at the event over 100 million in funds to support UNICEF projects for stakeholders from Nigeria’s “As someone who is commit- vulnerable children and the HIV/AIDS pandemic in Kaduna beauty landscape including the beauty fair, founder, TOUV brands in the same space, she ted to the beauty industry, I State and its environs, promises to be more exciting as nine skincare brands, hair brands, Global Concepts and HAMS noted “the beauty industry in am proud be a spokesperson equally match teams vie for honours. cosmetics, and perfume brands fair convener, Oge Obiefuna, Nigeria and indeed Africa is a for a worthy project like The Three teams, including many times champions, Access Bank amongst others. said, “I had a burning desire billion-dollar industry, HAMS HAMS Beauty Fair which will team, last year finalist, Malcomines and Barbedos jostling for This was made known at a to bring people together to intends to bring all these play- help showcase beauty brands the event biggest prize, the Charity Shield, while six ambitious press conference which held celebrate beauty and throw ers together directly to meet and in Nigeria.” teams would lock in a trench war for the Usman Dantata Cup. recently in Lagos where Esther more light on the industry.” interact with their consumers. “If you are a beauty brand in Highlight of the opening stage of the annual charity event ‘Biade, a reality TV star, beauty Expressing her excitement “We were pleasantly over- hair, cosmetics, perfumes and this year, was undoubtedly the Children Day celebration with brand ambassador and actress over her ability to bring to- whelmed with all the positive makeup, the HAMS Beauty the First Lady of Kaduna State, Hajia Aisha Ummi el-Rufai as was also unveiled as brand’s gether a collection of some of feedback we received in the Fair is the space to show the Mother of the Day. spokesperson. the best global beauty brands preliminary stages, and we your world-class products” Speaking on the idea behind as well as world class local cannot wait to show everyone she added. Nollywood Superstar, Chioma Akpota Suzuki by CFAO Launches Micro SUV, Unveils New SLDA Technology Endorses Mouka Royal Mattress Nollywood celebrity, Chioma Akpotha, recently gave the CFAO Motors, the distributor brand’s activities since 2019, first-class rating to the latest product launch by Nigeria’s of Suzuki vehicles in Nigeria Diouf said, “We came into the leading brand of mattresses, Mouka. and 30 other African coun- Nigerian market with a clear In a testimonial video, she was short of words to describe tries, last Friday unveiled the plan to make Japanese cars, what it feels like sleeping on Royal by Mouka. S-Presso micro SUV, a first of more accessible to Nigerians. According to her, waking up is difficult as she doesn’t its kind in Nigeria. “Amidst the challenges want to leave the warm embrace of her Royal mattress. The event tagged ‘Suzuki is caused by the pandemic, The screen-idol also said sleeping on her Royal helps Back’ was also an opportunity we have continued to im- her wake up energised and full of bounce. This, she says, for the company to launch its prove our value proposition is a far cry from her experience on her old mattress, which latest technological advance- to our customers with the made her wake up tired and cranky. ment, the Smart Link Display expansion of our aftersales “It is the most comfortable mattress ever,” she noted Audio (SLDA). service network across the while encouraging consumers to experience the product In attendance at the Suzuki country, while bringing more first hand to understand what she is talking about. - Victoria Island showroom General Manager, CFAO Equipment, Laurent Friederich; Managing Direc- Nigerian banks on board “Come and sleep on this mattress and give me your comments. It is simply amazing; it is the best. I don’t even was top CFAO representatives; tor/ Country Delegate CFAO Nigeria, Mr. Thomas Pelletier; CFAO Motors as partners for our Vehicle Chairman, CFAO Nigeria Plc, Financing scheme.” know how to describe it to you; you need to experience Mr. Gbenga Oyebode; Manag- - Suzuki, Mrs. Aissatou Diouf; Chairman, CFAO Nigeria Plc, Mr. Gbenga “We have just unveiled it yourself.” ing Director/ Country Delegate Oyebode; Managing Director, Assene Laborex, Regis Tromeur; Finance the S-Presso model, the first Speaking about the product, the Senior Brand and In- CFAO Nigeria, Mr. Thomas Director, CFAO Nigeria Plc, Hélène Paridisi at the ‘Suzuki Is Back’ Launch micro SUV in Nigeria which novation Manager, Mouka, Akeem Audu, said it is the Pelletier; and General Manager, Event will be sold for as low as true description of luxury at its finest. CFAO Motors - Suzuki, Mrs. N5.5 million. Indeed, Suzuki He pointed out that with a10-year warranty; the pillow- on the car display screen, place Suzuki brand ambassador, top layer delicately contours your body, providing relief Aissatou Diouf, customers and who is known for his desert is quickly becoming Naija’s industry stakeholders. phone calls, use navigation, ‘Way of life’ she added. to all pressure points. The lush Pama fabric covering the and play music easily among expeditions in Suzuki cars, was mattress adjusts to the body temperature, keeping it cool As a follow-up to the brand’s officially introduced to guests The Suzuki models available re-introduction in 2019, the other interesting features. This in Nigeria are city cars: S-presso, all through the night. technology is available in the at the event in a documentary Audu added that the mattress core is built with tempered ‘Suzuki is back’ event was a capturing the story behind his Alto, Dzire, Swift, Baleno, Ciaz, platform to showcase its latest Dzire, Ciaz, Vitara, Baleno, and Ertiga. The Off-Road Ve- and knotted Bonnell spring coils that ensure every part of Ertiga and Swift models. Suzuki choice. your body gets the right support it needs. upgrade, the SLDA which en- Speaking on some of the hicles/Sports Utility Vehicles ables the driver to mirror phone Dr. Newton Jibunoh, the new (SUVs) are Jimny and Vitara. 28 THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ

MUSIC SHOWBIZ E-TRENDS …Your weekly entertainment delight NOLLYWOOD There is No Killing the Twitter Hashtag Vanessa Obioha writes that the recent Twitter ban by the federal government will likely disconnect fans from their favourite celebrities but the hashtags which have become an emblem of Twitter may defy the ban

ntroduced to us by American blogger Chris mainly designed for images and videos, thereby power and sustained their brands. Perhaps, they Messina, the Twitter hashtag — represent- promoting vanities. may want to encourage fans to migrate to another ed by the octothorpe or the hash sign — is Most Twitter users in Nigeria also find the platform to stay connected. Fans who feel close an essential part of communication and site a source of entertainment. As a medium of to their idols on the platform will be frustrated disseminating information on the social self-expression, people find it easy to express their by the ban.Music artists who often use Twitter to media site. Want to start a movement? thoughts although there are downsides to this. drive streams will be particularly hit. A common Use the hashtag (#MeTooMovement). Albeit, some find amusement in reading people’s culture practised by musicians is to tease fans with Want to start a protest? The hashtag is reactions or thoughts on a topic irrespective of snippets of their work before release. That way, your microphone (#EndSARS). Have a new song/ their stance. they whet fans’ appetite before the premiere. That IEP/album? Spread the news with a hashtag. What Apart from the hashtags, the Twitter ban, spontaneity to intimate fans on their latest work about a film premiere or a fashion show? Use a if fully obeyed — some users access the site may be lost with the Twitter suspension. hashtag. Want to have a trending topic on Twitter? through VPN — will affect celebrities with huge Also, with the hashtags, an artiste can drive Just use a hashtag. followership. It is no secret that most individuals fans to stream or download his music on different The value of the hashtag in spreading informa- gained popularity on the microblogging site. Social streaming platforms. This does not only increase tion, driving traffic and increasing engagement With the recent Twitter ban by the federal networking sites like Twitter, Instagram birthed the number of streams but help in popularising cannot be overemphasized. The level horizontal government, one wonders what will be the fate the ‘influencer celebrity’ — a group of persons the song. strokes and right-tilting vertical strokes symbol of Twitter hashtags in Nigeria. who may or may not have adequate knowledge However, Nigerians are defying the ban with is particularly a weapon for fans of celebrities To be sure, hashtags are used on other social on a particular product or service but possess an their hashtags. One of them at the time of filing and TV shows on Twitter. For instance, fans of media platforms but Twitter seems to have it influencing power over his/her audience that can this report is #KeepItOn. The hashtag is a sort of housemates of Big Brother Naija reality TV show ingrained in its DNA. It is one platform where the lead to purchase or patronage. These individuals solidarity pledge to organisations and institutions have used the tool to mobilise others to vote for symbol has helped to index topics and keywords. are often patronised by organisations based on who are challenging the ban and keen on using their preferred housemates and even after the Moreover, most social media users find Twitter their social media following. the social media platform despite the threat by the show. Fans of music artists have also used the easy to navigate. With hashtags, it is easier to find For famous persons in the art and entertainment country’s Attorney-General Abubakar Malami to tool to spotlight the dominance of their music a topic, join a conversation and get information. sphere with a good number of followers, the ban prosecute anyone using the medium. idol in the industry. A good example is Wizkid’s The conciseness of tweets is another advantage of will mean losing those followers as the medium Perhaps, the hashtags will continue to live another fans popularly known as Wizkid FC. Twitter, unlike other social networking sites that are was one of the avenues they amplified their star day in Nigeria. It’s Not Yet Over for Nigeria Evicted Talents

The Voice Nigeria intro- completed his dapper look hit ‘Ladies and Gentlemen’. the evicted talents: Nuel, duced a new element to the with a leopard skin draped Their performance is one Peace, Tamara and Ayomikun, third season but before we across his shoulder and a of the most-talked-about were given another chance to dive into that, a quick recap fitted cap. battles of episode 11. remain in the show. Through of episode 11. Together, they performed While Team Falz went all the new Viewers Save, fans of You may be forgiven if you Beyonce’s ‘Already’ featur- groovy, Team Waje took a the show can vote to return are still relishing Team Falz’s ing Ghanaian reggae and mellow route with Eazzie any of the talents to the live performance on the Battles. dancehall artiste Shatta and Nuel performing show. By visiting the website His talents took their acts to Wale, and the Jamaican- Ed Sheeran’s ‘Perfect’. of the music competition, fans another level, shining in their American music trio, Major Ayomikun and Inioluwa are entitled to one vote per vocals and stage moves. Lazer. known for their soul voices day to keep their favourite Kicking off the Battles, Shining in their vocals, were challenged to perform talents on the show. Voting Peace and Dapo waltzed into the duo gave the judges an upbeat song ‘Nobody’ closes today. the stage, dripping royalty. some heat with their energy. by DJ Neptune featuring Also, First Bank Nigeria is Their costumes were a nod However, the talents that Joeboy. still giving away prizes to to the ‘Coming to America’ got the coaches on their At the end of the show, fans who correctly answer sequel which was released feet were Naomi Mac and only four talents (two from trivia questions posted on early this year, a fact Coach Tamara. The two young each team) made it to the their social media platforms. Darey pointed out while re- ladies nicknamed ‘Lamba live shows. They are Dapo Tomorrow’s episode will marking on their performance Girls’ outshone others not and Naomi Mac for Team see Team Darey and Team Tamara and Naomi Mac stole the show last weekend for the night. Peace donned only with their vocals but Falz; Inioluwa and Eazzie battle it out on a glittering sequined gown with their creativity, charm Strutting to the stage bare- moved uniformly to the beat for Team Waje. stage. Will their talents bring with high slits while Dapo and energetic moves. footed, they grooved and of the catchy Reekado Banks In a surprising twist, more heat to the stage?

Young Music Producer P.Priime Spreads His Wings TJ Hays Tackles Nigeria’s You may have marvelled at his limited to being a beatmaker. I do a lot Problems in New Visuals creativity on songs by Olamide, Teni, more than that; I write, sing, direct live and Zlatan, but despite the accolades, music and many other things. Besides, Lagos and Warri-based singer TJ Hays the young Nigerian music production being a beatmaker is me bringing the recently released the visuals of ‘Madoo’, a sensation, Peace Oredope, popularly dreams of an artist to life and I’d like song that plumbs the various challenges known as P.Priime is not resting on his for them to do the same to me.” facing the country. From insecurity to oars. The last child in a family of seven, To showcase his range, he revealed police brutality, the singer highlighted P.Priime attended Nuga Paul Schools, plans to release an EP. He explained, the disposition of ordinary citizens to Oke-Afa, Isolo and was raised in the “I am thinking of releasing my own the overwhelming problems. Ejigbo area of Lagos. He grew up in a P.Priime music. It’s more expressive because In recent times, the country has been music inclined family where everyone there’s a limit to things you can do on daunted by different conundrums with was a chorister. From an early age, he as one of the youngest to ever achieve other people’s songs.” insecurity being the most horrifying picked up rudimentary skills of playing that milestone on the Nigerian music Regarding his age, the artiste said: challenge. But according to the singer, TJ Hays music about five instruments such as landscape. “Age means nothing to me. If any- the masses are still flexing because they accompanied by dancers. The suffering piano, drumset, guitar, saxophone and Some of his credits include ‘Like thing, I feel privileged and I feel like can afford to drink away their problems. state of Nigerians was also captured in trumpet. This exposure was the right I Do’ off Fireboy’s magnum opus, the universe has put me on a pedestal “Money no get enemy” is the ultimate the video. pivot that he needed to blossom into ‘Laughter, Tears, Goosebumps’, ‘Gelato’ and as a result of that, I’m the voice for message of the song which can be TJ Hays is not new to the music scene. one of Nigeria’s most sought-after by DJ Cuppy, ‘Egungun’ by Zlatan and the next generation. I’m well-brought-up likened to the popular adage ‘Water Over the years, he’s released songs and record producers. At the young age veteran indigenous singer Obesere. He and very disciplined which makes it no get enemy’ by the afrobeat legend performed at international shows. Born of 18, the Ogun State-born talent has bagged credit for producing seven out quite easy for me. I am very much in Fela Anikulapo-Kuti Ayikimi Oghenetejiri, he started his music amassed enviable production credits of 12 songs in Olamide’s latest album, touch with older people whom I have Sampling afrobeat, the visuals directed career as a live band musician in Delta that dwarfs his age. From behind his ‘Carpe Diem.’ around me. Their rich counsel help to by Edesiri Adese shows TJ Hays in State Warri, where he comes from. His music console, he goes into the books He disclosed, “I don’t want to be keep me in check.” different sets, sometimes shirtless and other songs include ‘Ayeme’ and ‘Ebiere’. THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 29  SME.NG Set to Launch Ebi Marketplace to Empower Female Entrepreneurs Chiamaka Ozulumba tem to thrive. will also feature a Nigerian and the App will be available Commenting on the women SME directory with for download on Play Store SME.NG is set to launch purpose of the Ebi Market sector and location tags to and Apple Store. an e-market platform with Platform, the Managing Di- expand the reach of products Successful sign-ups would the aim of empowering rector, SME.NG, Ms. Thelma and services across Nigeria officially become vendors on women-owned businesses Ekiyor, said, “This year, due and beyond. the platform and can access with economic opportuni- to the impact of the global The Ebi Marketplace will all the benefits on the Ebi ties, business sustainability pandemic, COVID-19, we be all inclusive and will offer Market Platform.Connect and improving resilience to have deemed it pertinent to a one-stop shop information with Ebi Market on social the negative effects of the empower Nigerian female- portal of opportunities for media @ebimarketplace on pandemic and the economic owned businesses to help women entrepreneurs. Instagram and Twitter. downturn. them thrive. The platform will provide SME.NG was established The platform which is set “With SME.NG at the women entrepreneurs and to bridge the gaps in to launch in August will helm of providing Nigerian their customers with a women’s access to finance help overcome the barri- Female Entrepreneurs the unique and seamless on- through “gender lens invest- ers female entrepreneurs opportunity to grow their line trading and shopping ing”. currently face in Nigeria, businesses through financial experience. It also includes It is an impact investment as digital solutions offer a services, trading opportu- features that will help drive platform that invests in new and scalable pathway nities, advisory services, sales and boost revenues for Nigerian SMEs to realize to not just solve the issues mentorship and networking women-owned businesses, measurable environmental, of access to finance but will and so much more, we will as well as provide other social, and financial returns. generate market linkages for continue to provide female resources that will enable The platform’s approach to female entrepreneurs. entrepreneurs with entre- women-owned businesses SME financing is through a In addition to its all- preneurial opportunities to to thrive. “blended financing” model, women’s She Works Here create wealth and support To join the Ebi Market which leverages private accelerator and the Ebi Fund their livelihood.” Platform, interested female capital, public sector invest- targeted at women entrepre- The Ebi Marketplace entrepreneurs can register ments and philanthropic giv- Thelma Ekiyor neurs in Nigeria, SME.NG platform will be Nigeria’s to be vendors on www.ebi- ing. SME.NG has two funds is providing this e-market and financial inclusion for has sought to empower and first all-women’s e-market marketplace.com. The Ebi for women and operates an solution to give access to female-owned businesses. improve the livelihoods of platform which is safe and marketplace will officially all women accelerator, “She finance, access to markets Since its launch, SME.NG women in the SME ecosys- user-friendly. The platform go live on the 1st of August Works Here”. Jobberman Nigeria Launches New Way to Recruit for Employers Love Idoko’s Foundation Nigeria’s leading job place- match their job description the feedback from all our custom- selection. Employers get this Partners Nestle to Empower ments platform has today best in only 10 working days. ers and improved our product and more for only N75,000. announced the launch of For employers, hiring the by incorporating artificial intel- Isaac Oni, Product Lead, NYSC Members its new and improved Best right talent for their job roles ligence to ensure that employ- Jobberman Nigeria stated Match product which helps remains a major challenge. While ers get a shortlist of “qualified” “The new Best Match is de- The Executive Director of Ac- employers find the best match finding good candidates through and “tested” candidates who signed to make work easier tivate Success Int’l Foundation for their roles in ten working numerous recruitment methods match their job description for employers by providing (ASIF), Mrs. Love Idoko-Uloko days. This announcement is might not be hard, finding the the best and spend less time advanced technology to screen, has once again reignited her part of its campaign tagged, best talent, both in culture and in the hiring process” With test, and rank only the most annual Youth Entrepreneur- #ANewWaytoMatch. in skill-set, can be excruciating. Best Match, employers get qualified for open roles listed ship and Empowerment Pro- The new and improved Best Speaking on the campaign, CEO additional benefits such as a on the platform. As leaders in gramme’ (YEEP) for National Match product is an automated Jobberman Nigeria, Ms. Rolake complimentary assessment the industry, we are working Youth Service Corps (NYSC) candidate matching system Rosiji stated “With over a decade worth N32,000, increased vis- hard to give employers the members. that saves employers time in the recruitment industry, we ibility and reach by matching best recruitment journey by This year’s event held in and effort by screening, testing, understand the challenge of the job roles to both qualified matching them with only the Abuja, Lagos and Ogun States and ranking the high volume finding the best fit for a job role passive and active jobseekers, best that’s right for them” simultaneously on May 25, Idoko of candidates received for an in any company. transparency by providing Over the next four weeks, 2021. application, matching them “ That is why we are pleased real-time information, with Jobberman is looking to partner The line-up of speakers at the Dakolo who was a cynosure of with the best fit, faster. to reintroduce our Best Match a fully interactive view of all with new and existing employ- different centers include Mrs. all eyes briefly performed few With this product, employers product. As an innovative applicants, and an automated ers, introducing them to the Love Idoko-Uloko; popular of his hit songs to the admira- get a shortlist of 10 “qualified” and technologically driven report which is a detailed new way to match through musician, Timi Dakolo; cel- tion of everyone before going and “tested’’ candidates who company, we have taken the summary of the Best Match Best Match. ebrated Comedian, Real Warri ahead to admonish the youths. Pikin; Actor, Uti Nwachukwu He shared with them the and Arik Air’s Head of Central importance of comparative Ikeja Electric Restates Commitment to Quality Education and West Africa, Mr. Sylvester advantage while another ȊDistributes free educational materials to mark Children’s Day Egogo. Also in attendance notable guest speaker, Warri was a high powered delega- Pikin shared her inspiring and Nigeria’s leading Electricity anywhere they find themselves. tion from Nestle Nigeria PLC touching true life story with the Distribution Company, Ikeja She discouraged any form which include Mr. Bamidele audience. They both encour- Electric (IE), has restated its sup- of activity near power lines Aina (Brand Manager Noth- aged the Corps members to live port for quality education with and also advised parents not Central); Mr. Ayodele Ayeokere life meaningfully and never to the donation of educational to carry out any trading activi- (Factory Manager, Abaji); Mr. give up on their dreams. materials to Agidingbi Primary ties near electrical installations, Rasheed Sowunmi (Quality As- The Nestle Team officials Schools, Ikeja, Lagos, as part especially near transformers surance Manager, Abaji); and in their speeches expressed of activities to mark this year’s and under high tension power Mr. Sylvester Odunlami (Sales the desire of the company to Children’s Day. lines, to avoid electrocution. Operations Manager- North work with the NYSC and Corps The company stated that it is Some of the beneficiaries with Ikeja Electric Staff She assured the children and Central), among others. members in acquiring skills and in line with its commitment to parents of excellent service The Executive Director of being self-reliant. They prom- support efforts in promoting “We understand that qual- commended Ikeja Electric for delivery across the network ASIF in her opening remarks ised to train those interested in quality primary education and ity primary education is the distributing the educational coverage areas of Ikeja Electric. at the Abuja center highlighted the skills acquisition. also contribute to the growth of bedrock for building leaders items to their pupils, as this The pupils, after receiving the the foundation’s various pro- The event had in attendance educational sector in Nigeria, of tomorrow, so it becomes will encourage them in their educational materials, thanked grammes targeted at inspiring the Batch A Stream II Corp through its Corporate Social pertinent that we lend our studies. the DisCO, saying “God bless and empowering young members, staff of the NYSC Responsibility initiatives. support to growth and qual- “We are extremely delighted Ikeja Electric”. people. She also mentioned including the State Coordina- Speaking during presenta- ity educational development and grateful to Ikeja Electric The event was also attended the foundation’s partnership tor, Camp Director, the Camp tion of the items which included of these children. for coming to celebrate this by Afolabi Adeola, Education with Nestle and highlighted Commandant, members of the books, writing materials and “As a socially responsible year’s Children’s Day with Officer, Ikeja Local Government how Corp members can benefit NYSC Camp Management school bags, the company’s corporate organisation, we will our school,” she said. Education Authority, Oluyemi from it. Team and the Director North Chief Finance Officer, Ol- continue to engender opportu- During the interactive ses- Ayanga, Business Manager, “Currently, we have a part- Central, Mrs. Loto Bolade ubunmi Olukoju, explained nities and support platform that sion in the school, the pupils Ikeja Business Unit, Adebimpe nership with Nestle Nigeria to Omolayo. that IE came to identify with will prepare children to excel were educated on how to use Akintola, Brand, Events and train interested Corps members In 2019, ASIF gave out Agidingbi Primary School, in their academic pursuits,” electricity safely to avoid electri- PCSR Coordinator, Ayeni in food processing and packag- startup grants of N200, 000 each as a way of giving back to the she said. cal hazards. Olukoju urged the Akinola, Community and Me- ing. Afterwards, grants will be to young entrepreneurs under society, in appreciation of their In her response, the elated pupils to abide by all the safety dia Relations Manager, all from presented to some of you after its Youth Entrepreneurship and contribution to the progress the Head Teacher of Agidingbi tips at all times while enjoying Ikeja Electric and some Ikeja completing the training”. Empowerment Programme company. Primary School, Ehirim Edith, electricity at home, school and Electric’s employee volunteers. Award winning artiste, Timi (YEEP). 30 THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ

ART WEEKEND…For pure art enthusiasts Fadun’s Literary Window into History, Universal ThemesMoers Festival 2021 In the book, ‘Thoughts of Babatunde Fadun,’ the author makes a case for the integration of the Awori towns of Otta, Igbesa and Ado-Odo into Lagos, student loan schemes, review of the constitution while wading in on global issues. Yinka Olatunbosun writes

hief Babatunde Fadun’s book as the first ethnic settlers in Lagos. The writer Babatunde Fadun delves into history titled ‘Thoughts of Babatunde to trace their imprint and examine where Fadun’ is essentially a col- other Awori communities should be part lection of his commentaries of Lagos state. Before the intertribal war that had previously been broke out in 1794, the Aworis migrated publishedC in leading national newspapers to Lagos metropolis arriving at Ogudu, since 1973. The author who hails from Ojuwoye (now Mushin), Ebute Metta. It was said that the Awori and Egbado Igbesa had worked at the defunct National often met at Iddo Wharf for the purpose Bank of Nigeria for six years during which of marketing. he studied journalism by correspondence Next, the author examines the history at the School of Journalism, Hermitage, books on Lagos written by various authors England. After his stint at the University such as Prince John. B Losi’s ‘The History of of Lagos where he studied Economics, Lagos,’ another one titled ‘History of Nigeria’ he worked for 10 years at the Marketing from a former Colonial Governor of Nigeria, Sir Alan Burns and ‘The Case for Lagos State’ Department of NNPC and would later join written by the first executive Governor of La- politics in 1997. gos state, Lateef Jakande. For the author, the A foundation member of PDP in Ogun argument for the inclusion of Otta, Igbesa and state and an experienced insurance practi- Ado-Odo in Lagos is informed by the prospect tioner, his varied professional experience of experiencing infrastructural development reflected on his informed commentaries in that would lead to better quality of life. the book. The articles are multi-dimensional In another piece, the writer explains focusing on politics, economics and histori- why locally manufactured goods are cal trajectories of Nigeria. Chief Fadun’s expensive, tapping from the wealth of writings, both national and universal, are knowledge of some industry experts. fact-oriented. With its foreword written In addition to these newspaper com- by the human rights lawyer, Femi Falana mentaries, the author adds some paper SAN, the tone is set for a patriotic sojourn presentation to the collection. For in- through a maze of events that necessitated stance, the paper titled ‘Memorandum the original commentaries. to the panel on the review of the Nigerian In the book, the reader takes a walk through Capital Market headed by Denis Odife,’ the some aspects of history, a page at a time. author identifies some of the inherent problems Beginning with the argument around the in the Nigerian Capital Market, proffering territorial stretch of Lagos into its border solutions. towns with Ogun state, Chief Fadun in- Book Cover As observed by Falana SAN, the book is a tegrates his insight as a native of one of ‘priceless compendium, an important read such communities and a dogged student that appeared to be closer to Lagos that of Otta, Igbesa and Ado-Odo. The Aworis, at last for those who are curious to connect of history. There are many communities Ogun state. These include the Awori towns though a small ethnic group, are considered with Nigeria’s past, present and future.’ outside Lagos that fall under Ogun state Twitter Ban: Ehikhamenor Alludes to Maya Angelou’s Poem with Painting Duro Ikujenyo Pays had been used by Nigerians Tribute to Rolling Chinelo A. Iwenofu for self-expression, business, potent tool for young Nigerians To answer the question Dollar in Docu-film, citizen journalism and crime to demand for accountability. posed by Ehikhamenor, the In the painting, the bird’s beak viewer is required to do some Many thought it was simple fighting initiatives; news Concert gathering and dissemination, is fastened with a padlock that soul-searching to find truth- yet powerful. A painting of the bears the Nigeria’s national ful answers using thought- Yinka Olatunbosun iconic blue bird that is the logo entertainment, propaganda and agitation for citizen’s colours in the flag order, that provoking questions such as: of the micro-blogging site Twit- is green-white-green. No Could there be a connection A documentary to show ter has arrested the attention rights and justice. Hence, the global outrage that ensued doubt, the painting with its between the social reality of the diversity of Lagos cul- of art lovers and the general title alludes to the poem by the average Nigerian and tural scene will hold next public on the social media plat- after the announcement was government announced the overwhelming- from the dip- Maya Angelou ‘Caged Bird’ the high voltage of anger week Friday, June 18 at the forms. A masterpiece from one which is loaded with themes expressed on twitter? If there Alliance Francaise, Otunba of Nigeria’s most innovative suspension of Twitter on the lomatic community to labour premise that the app owners unions and yes, artists. of racial oppression, freedom are adequate job opportuni- Mike Adenuga Centre, Ikoyi, contemporary artists, Victor versus captivity and happiness ties for Nigerians in Nigeria, Lagos. Ehikhamenor, the painting is allowed its platform to be used This is why Ehikhamenor’s “for activities that are capable ‘Do You Know Why The Caged versus sorrow. With the poem, would there be spare time to The documentary titled titled ‘Do You Know Why The Maya Angelou appropriated use the platform to trend for ‘fusion of culture’ pays Caged Bird Sings?’ of undermining Nigeria’s Bird Sings?’ speaks volumes corporate existence.’’ about the underlying issues birds as metaphor to convey trending’s sake by needlessly tribute to late Pa Fatai The background to the the frustration and suffering bullying a politician? Or fan- Rolling Dollar, a pioneer- painting is quite interesting. Before the suspension was that made Twitter the most announced, the Twitter app of the oppressed. ning the embers of war? ing palm wine music On Friday June 4, the Nigerian artist who contributed to the ‘agidigbo’ fame. The documentary was shot by 50th Post-Humous Birthday: Honouring Tupac’s Political Legacy in Hip-Hop Angelbert Theuretzbecher, glorifying drugs and the thug negro/Pull the trigger kill a an Austrian national who makers and documentarians, life. Every good student history nigga he’s a hero/Give the died in a fatal crash enroute Yinka Olatunbosun especially rap artists who are knows that the blacks didn’t crack to the kids who the hell Ijebu-Ode. Ikujenyo noted keen on lyricism. Rappers like invent crack but the influx of cares/One less hungry mouth that he and other crew One of the most influential Nas, Lauryn Hill, Common, crack into black neighborhoods on the welfare.’’ members sustained vary- voices in hip-hop history, Kendrick Lamar, Childish in America changed hip-hop With the death of Tupac and ing degrees of injury. The Tupac Shakur would have Gambino honed their politi- forever. Crack became the means the controversial murder of his Afro-jazz musician and the been 50 years old on June 16 cal lyricism on the template to an end- the infamous antidote rival, Notorious B.I.G, it became Afrobeat legend Fela’s this year if his life had not been inadvertently created by the to poverty. Drugs birthed gangs; clear that hip-hop could use former pianist, Duro Iku- cut short by the bullet in Las likes of Tupac. Tupac was gangs dominated hoods. A some slow-mo. More than jenyo who conceptualized Vegas on September 13, 1996. a visionary whose music rapper gets beaten or shot for a decade later, the rap game the documentary, will also Tupac, who is famous for his Tupac Shakur captured the temperament something he rapped about that became less vicious-veering perform that same evening music activism against inequal- of the black neighborhood. insulted the other gang. Hip-hop into a different form called in a concert that is designed ity, rapped about violence, Prophets. Long before Tupac, Take a look at the scenario he got messy afterwards. Tupac’s ‘trap.’ Then came the voice to unveil his sixth album drugs and thug life, poverty, there was a slew of socially- painted casually in his classic, post-humous release, “Changes’’ spitting brutal conversation titled ‘Divine Fusion’. humanity and other issues that conscious artists such as ‘Dear Mama’ where demysti- is an existential-themed rap song on race. His name is Joyner The Lagos-based musi- may have contributed to the Grandmaster Flash and the fies the thug life in the lines: I with every day subject matters Lucas. His song “I’m not cian, along with his band, battered image of a person of Furious Five, Kurtis Blow, hang around with the thugs/ of hunger, crime and the unholy racist,’’ heavily criticized for the Age of Aquarius will colour in his society and indeed and others. And even though they sold indoctrination of under-aged reinforcing stereotypes was perform on July 18 and will the entire world. Hip-hop as a Long after his death, his drugs/ They showed the children into drug peddling. in itself ‘a double-platinum’ feature Ayinke Martins, a genre has roots in the militant music is still a subject of intel- young brother love.’ Perhaps, “My stomach hurts so I’m honour for the legacy of con- Nigerian-British Renowned spoken-word groups such as lectual discourse and reference for the duality of the meanings lookin’ for a purse to snatch/ scious rap laid by Tupac and Queen of Jazz as a guest The Last Poets and The Watts material for reviewers, film of his songs, he was blamed for Cops give a damn about a his contemporaries. performer. THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ ͱͯ  Dimbo Atiya: Celebrating Northern Culture in a Contemporary Way Dumbo Atiya, a Jos-based content producer, is one of the remarkable storytellers celebrating northern culture in a contemporary way on the small screen. Vanessa Obioha reports on how GOtv have his content a wider reach

ontent production was never in the works for Dimbo Atiya, a popu- lar content producer. The earliest encounter he had with the film industry was when his mother was cast in a role in a TV production of Nigerian TelevisionC Authority (NTA) in Jos, Plateau State. Even now, as he recalled the moment, he can hardly place the exact year he had the experience. In his recollection, he was just a young boy who enjoyed going to the studio with his mother, an English Language graduate. His mother’s imaginative mind and stories also fascinated him such that he marvelled at the way she used family members as characters in her stories. “It was fascinating to read those stories with names of my uncles, aunts and relatives as characters,” he enthused. The fascination, however, was not mag- netic enough to pull him into the film world. For most of his high school days, he spent wandering, unsure of what career path to take. What would finally do the magic was the intervention of a family friend who persuaded his mother to send him to the Nigerian Institute of Journalism in Jos. Reluctantly, he enrolled in the institute but by the time he attended a radio production class taught by Mallam Auwal, he knew he had creative juice flowing in his veins. “He had such a creative mind that I knew instantly I was going to return the following day.” Not only did Dimbo return to the class, but he went on to attend the film school in Jos although he didn’t complete the academic year. He would later work with Mo Abudu, attend New York Film Academy and was partially convinced that he would become a director, but after much deliberation, he stuck with content production. Today, Dimbo is renowned for producing content that portrays northern culture in a different light. He explained that because he grew up in Jos, Plateau State which most Atiya people assumed is his state of origin (he is from Nasarawa State), he is familiar and exposed to northern nuances. Jos, according up my mind to become the ‘King of the The television drama series gained tuning in daily to watch a daily show. That to him, is home to many northerners and North’ with that kind of storytelling.” popularity for its riveting storyline and is, 240 episodes of ‘Halita’. We were par- as such he is well acquainted with many When pitching ‘Halita’, one of his popu- characters, particularly its eponymous ticularly excited when it began airing on from the core part of the region. lar TV series on Africa Magic channels on character Halita, a 19-year-old village girl Africa Magic Family which is available on “Moreover, growing up, filmmakers like GOtv, the content producer applied the forced to move to the city and work as a GOtv. It’s not premium so we were excited Peter Igho from NTA had a way of mixing same method, urging the network to capture maid in the powerful Zamani household. that ordinary Nigerians can also watch it. the northern culture with contemporary the story in a northern setting. It worked. The show finale aired in September 2020. Most of our fans that watched ‘Halita’ were characters in stories like ‘Behind the Clouds’. ‘Halita’ featured actors like Sophia Alakija, probably from the GOtv family. “ So when I found my footing in the industry, Mofe Duncan, Chisom Gabriella and the He explained further: “When the second it was very convenient that I was biased late Matt Alkali. season premiered, it wasn’t originally on to things I was exposed to.” He admitted that he never envisaged the GOtv and some people protested that Most films and TV shows about north- success of the show because it was the first decision and even migrated to the DStv erners are often stereotyped, according to Most of my content is daily show he and his team worked on. platform. That showed us that our fans him, so he was keen on telling stories that “Ninety-five per cent of the cast were were mainly on the GOtv platform.” are contemporary and also appeal to the family-oriented because new faces on television. The crew were Atiya also disclosed that the popularity elites in that region. I have been influenced mostly young people who were graduates of the show was so overwhelming that the The northern culture, he said, has a strong by the family culture of from Jos. We were all newbies, we had no cast members get a lofty ovation wherever textural appeal. the north. It’s something expectations but were keen on doing the they go. “There is something very brilliant and job and doing it well. We started feeling “The GOtv platform has done an amazing deep about the northern culture. First of that is not too common we were doing something when we got job in projecting our content more than as all, the language. There is something very in the mainstream. Some feedback from the social media handles far as we can imagine.” fluid and poetic about the language,” he of these nuances that are from the Africa Magic channels. ‘Halita’ had He argued that there are so many stories gushed. peculiar to the northern the highest fanbase on Facebook. When the to tell as long as the content producer knows The appeal also includes their family show ended, people were really heartbroken what the audience wants. However, the values which Dimbo explores in his sto- region are not exploited in and the fans, till today, sent their wishful most interesting thing for him is that there rytelling. the mainstream media so thoughts for another season.” are platforms like GOtv interested in these “Most of my content is family-oriented I thought it was a unique “The production value was done differ- stories. because I have been influenced by the family ently to give it a unique look. The opening “GOtv has subscription-based viewers culture of the north. It’s something that is way to stand out in the song done by Bez became an anthem. We that they have to feed every day. And as not too common in the mainstream. Some industry. It was something became confident when we started gaining such, needs content. It can be commissioned of these nuances that are peculiar to the fresh and new and I made ground with the audience,” he added. or licensed. Such platforms help content northern region are not exploited in the up my mind to become the For Dimbo, working with Africa Magic producers to share their stories. So it is mainstream media so I thought it was a channels which are on GOtv is a massive a good time for content producers in the unique way to stand out in the industry. It ‘King of the North’ with opportunity for him. country because many stories are waiting was something fresh and new and I made that kind of storytelling “We are talking about millions of people to be told,” he stated. 32 THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ

 Anambra Immigration Comptroller Decorates ACI Nsofor Chiemelie Ezeobi

The Comptroller of Immi- gration (CIS), AD Eche, recently decorated Lady Uche Felicia Nsofor, with the rank of Assistant Comptroller of Immigration (ACI). Prior to her promotion and subsequent decoration on May 27 , Nsofor was a Chief Superintendent of Immigration (CSI). At the decoration, she was proudly sup- ported by her husband, Hon Engr Humphrey Nsofor, KSC and her daughter, Barrister Ekene. ACI Nsofor hails from the renowned Ezeo- gidi Okoli Family of Umuekwe, Orsumoghu in Ihiala Local Government Area (LGA), Anamabra State. At a point when it wasn’t fashionable for the girl-child to be enrolled into school, her father, Late Jacob Okoli and mother, Mrs. Margaret Okoli, ensured her enrolment, thus setting her off the trajectory of her career today. In her formative years, she attended Girls Secondary School, Amichi, in Anambra State and afterwards proceeded to University where she bagged a degree in Assistant Comptroller of Immigration, Uche Felicia Nsofor being decorated by Anambra State Comptroller, AD Eche; and her husband, Hon Humphrey Nsofor, KSC Guidance and Counselling. She is married to Hon. H.C Nsofor, a former Assembly and former Special Adviser on Anambra State. maka and Chukwudum (the twins); Ekene, Majority Leader in Anambra State House of Legislative Matters to former Governor of She is blessed with five children, Chia- Chigozirim and Nnaemeka. Rotary Club of Lagos Celebrates 60th Anniversary with Fanfare Chiamaka Ozulumba Group Chief Executive, FCMB Group Plc and Chief Phillip Asiodu, diplomat and The Rotary Club of Lagos in District former Petroleum Minister. 9110 rolled out the drums to celebrate its “There were also other distinguished 60th anniversary with a gala dinner which Rotary leaders in attendance including held as a hybrid event at Oriental Hotel, Past District Governors Adeniji Raji, Dr Victoria, Lagos. Kamoru Omotosho, Dr Deinde Shoga, According to Chair, Public Image Com- Richard Giwa-Osagie and his spouse, Toyin mittee & Chair, 60th Anniversary Media and Kola Sodipo and spouse, Adenike. & Communications Sub-Committee, “The incoming District Governor, Remi Rotary Club of Lagos, Ehi Braimah, the Bello, FCA and the District Governor Nomi- highpoints of the ceremony included the nee, Omotunde Lawson, also graced the launch of the Club’s Coffee Table Book, a occasion. memorabilia showcasing the rich heritage “Bill Egnatoff was a virtual participant of the club, which was reviewed by Prof and joined from Canada. Egnatoff, who was Doyin Salami, Chairman of the Economic with his spouse Joan during the ceremony, Advisory Council. is a retired Professor of Computer Science Past District Governor, Dr. Tunji Funso at Kingston University in Ontario, Canada. who was voted as one of Time Magazine’s He witnessed the charter ceremony of the 100 Most Influential Persons 2020, was Rotary Club of Lagos in 1961. His father, the guest speaker. late J.G. Egnatoff, chartered the club. He noted that as Rotarians, “we cannot “Also online were Peter Urselmann, stop doing good in the world and affirmed President of the Rotary Club of Oberhaussen that though Nigeria has kicked the wild Antony-Huette in Germany. The German polio virus out, we all have to be eternally L-R: Larry Agose, chair of the Anniversary Committee; Ann Adeyeri, spouse of Dare Adeyeri; 60th President Club is the initiator of the WATER FOR vigilant to keep polio at zero.” of the Club, Dare Adeyeri; Dr Bisi Onasanya, former GMD/CEO of First Bank/Chairman of the occasion and his LIFE project at Coke Town in Local In his remarks, District Governor Bola wife, Helen at the unveiling of the Rotary Club of Lagos Coffee Table Book (Memorabilia) to mark the Club’s Government Area in Ogun State which 60th anniversary during the gala dinner in Lagos, recently Oyebade noted that the Rotary Club of will cost over US$80,000. Lagos is the oldest club in the district with given to eminent Nigerians in different cat- Nwuneli were given honorary awards for “The project is a collaboration of three 26 charter members in 1961. egories such as the ambassadors awards for their services to humanity. partners consisting of the Rotary Club of He praised members of the club for their members of the club that chartered other “As the second Rotary Club to be charted Oberhaussen Antony-Huette, Rotary Club steadfastness and commitment to the ideals Rotary Clubs. in Nigeria on May 30, 1961, after the Ro- of Lagos and Adesuwa Foundation based of Rotary. Dare Adeyeri, the 60th president “In the distinguished awards category, tary Club of Kano, the high profile gala in Germany which was founded by Jennifer of the club, expressed immense joy for the Past President Kunle Ogunbayo and PAG attracted dignitaries which included Dr Westholt. opportunity to serve humanity. He said Hairat Balogun were the recipients while Bisi Onasanya, Founder/Chairman of The “Members of the Rotary Club of Lagos the club executed over 40 projects at over Chief Phillip Asiodu, Elder Felix Ohiwerei, Address Homes and former Group Man- and Rotarians from other clubs including N50million since July last year. Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Otunba M.O. Balogun, aging Director/CEO, First Bank Nigeria Rotaractors, friends and guests of Rotary According to Braimah, “awards were also Chief Mrs Onikepo Akande and Mrs Ndidi Limited and his wife, Helen; Ladi Balogun, were also attended the gala dinner.” Okwuosa Promises One Million Jobs for Youths A governorship aspirant created thousands of op- available to him as the state for the youth. Anambra aged the entry of foreign in the state. under the platform of All portunities for motivated governor will enable him to lacks the favourable climate investment into the state. He opined that his ad- Progressives Congress youths to build careers, create over one million jobs to host labour-intensive Most SMEs struggle to stay ministration would strive (APC) in Anambra State, develop new skills and in Anambra for the people. industries”. afloat due to the inability to provide a stable and af- Hon Azuka Okwuosa has engage in favourable com- “My plan cuts across According to him, this of the government to create fordable power supply to promised to create over a petition while earning an all sectors of the economy, problem is one of his gov- sustainable structures that reduce the overhead costs million jobs for youths if honest living.” containing practical steps to ernment’s priorities after would facilitate business for businesses, establish a elected. His establishments which secure productive partner- his election in November. growth”. film village to encourage the According to him, he has cut across the oil and gas, ships with industry experts “The state’s infrastruc- Speaking on his blueprint, growing movie industry and already created over cover ICT, and agricultural in- both in the private and tural deficiency and in- the governorship aspirant many other initiatives. 20,000 jobs for Nigerian dustries have hosted over public sectors. security have influenced says he intends to intensify He stressed that his gov- youths in his 30 years as 20,000 skilled and unskilled He further highlighted the flight of large business efforts to create jobs through ernment will also disburse career engineer. labourers. “Anambra as a state has been enterprises to other parts agricultural development grants and acquisition funds He said, “my entrepre- Okwuosa, further empha- deficient in the purposeful of the country. and incentivising multina- to encourage innovative and neurial ventures have sised that the resources made creation of worthwhile jobs “It has also discour- tional companies to domicile entrepreneurial indigenes. THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 33

METRO …Your city life in print Hammed Tajudeen: Improving Lives in Ojomu Communities For Hammed Tajudeen, a community youth leader from Ojomu Royal Communities in Eti-Osa Local Government Area of Lagos State, one does not need to be a political office holder before embarking on poverty alleviation schemes, Chiamaka Ozulumba reports

Tajudeen Some of empowerment scheme donations

ost people think leadership Hammed Ajiran did not just appear from gift, sewing machines,hair dryers, hair today will advance the goal of the Lagos is about being in charge. sky, he has seen the good, the bad and the straighteners, ironing tables, pressing irons State government in the transportation Most people think leader- ugly. According to him, “I was born in and other saloon and tailoring equipment. sector which the governor, Sanwo-olu is ship is about having all Ojomu Royal Communities, My parents As an astute lover of quality grassroots working seriously to improve.” “Mthe answers and being the most intelligent were very poor, it was so difficult for us to education, Tajudeen also carried out Pastor Ibukun Akintoye, who is one person or the most qualified person in the room. feed and live. It was so tough for us, so I outreaches to schools in the Eti-Osa area; of the beneficiaries of Hammed Taju- The irony is that it is the complete opposite. did many odd jobs to survive. I was once a where he gifted them with school buses and deen empowerment scheme said “I Leadership is about empowering others to bus conductor here in Lagos. I hawked on other educational materials to smooth sail can’t even express my excitement over achieve things they did not think possible. the streets, and I did welding job and other the vision of the leaders of tomorrow. the gift. This is so great. Mr. Hammed Leadership is about pointing in the direction, manual labour jobs to survive and support Speaking during the event, Lagos Com- is God sent to us all. He is bringing articulating a vision of the world that does my family.” missioner for Home Affairs, Mr. Olanrewa- many out of poverty. Those people not yet exist. Then asking help from others As someone who tasted and knew how ju Elegushi, disclosed that empowerment that got commercial vehicles will have to insure that vision happens.” -Simon Sinek poverty or hunger can lead to depression, such as this is very key to the society and a good source of income. May God For Hammed Tajudeen, a community since his breakthrough, he decided to go must be encouraged because people are bless him.” youth leader from Ojomu Royal Communi- into poverty alleviation schemes to help empowered there will be less crimes, and Akintoye, who was lucky to get car ties in Eti-Osa Local Government Area reduce poverty in his community and the the economy will grow. at the Hammed empowerment scheme, of Lagos State, one does not need to be a beyond. According to him, “I am overwhelmed noted that it was because of the leadership political office holder before embarking Friday, May 21, 2021, was day to be re- by the gesture of Mr. Hammed, what he did roles he has been playing in the community, on poverty alleviation schemes or pro- membered as people of Ojomu Royal Com- today is something that is extraordinary for not because there is any special thing he has grammes to put smiles on the faces of your munities and other communities in Eti-Osa an individual who is not even a politician been doing for the philanthropist, adding community people. Local Government Area were empowered to handle, his passion to help people is so that there is always a reward for any good Tajudeen who is popularly known as with not less than 25 cars, N15,000,000 cash huge. The commercial vehicles given out deed either by God or man”. MAJORWAVES Named Local Content Magazine of the Year Majorwaves Energy Report (MER), an achievement, OGTAN Has decided to energy magazine was recently awarded confer the Best Local Content Magazine the Best Local Content Magazine of the Award for the Year 2020.” Year 2020. Recipients of other categories of the MER is published by Majorwaves Com- OGTAN Awards are the Minister of state munications, a media, public relations, for Petroleum Resources, H.E Timipre training and research firm co-founded by Sylva, who bagged “the Gas Decade 2017 Mandela Washington Fellow, Mar- Personality” award, alongside the Director garet Nongo-Okojokwu and her husband, General of the Department of Petroleum Jerome Onoja Okojokwu-Idu in 2018. Resources, Engr. Sarki Auwalu, who won The award was given in recognition of “the Oil & Gas Innovative” award, and a the magazine’s significant coverage and host of others. reportage of local content, sustainability, Margaret and Jerome are both alumni infrastructure and events in the Nigerian of the prestigious Pan Atlantic University Oil and Gas industry and across the where they studied Advanced Writing and African continent. Reporting Skills (AWAReS). It was conferred by the Oil and Gas .While she is presently studying L-R: BOT Chairman OGTAN, Dr Mayowa Afe; Editor - MER, Margaret Nongo-Okojokwu; and Managing Editor - Trainers Association of Nigeria (OGTAN) MER, Jerome Onoja Okojokwu-Idu Integrated Media Communications at the 2021 AGM and Lecture series during for a Masters’ degree at the University the Outstanding Media Award ceremony letter signed by the association’s president noted unanimously with great pleasure of Nebraska-Lincoln, Jerome is a 2002 of the association which held April, 2021 Dr Mayowa Afe, which reads in part: “We your significant efforts in coverage of all Associate member of the Nigerian Institute at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria are pleased to inform you that the National Local Content activities and events in the of Public Relations (NIPR) and holds a Island, Lagos. Executive Council of the Oil and Gas country. Masters’ degree in Environmental Man- OGTAN conveyed the message in a Trainers Association of Nigeria, (OGTAN) “In recognition of this outstanding agement from the University of Lagos. 34 THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜2021 BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE CBN Denies Plan to Nationalise Unity Bank Obinna Chima Non- Performing Loans (NPL) per cent to N206.2 billion in 2020 ratio that breach prudential from N106.9 billion in 2019. The Central Bank of Nigeria standards. The bank’s total assets rose by (CBN) yesterday described However, analysts note that just 67.90 per cent when compared as “fake news,” a media last month, the CBN’s Monetary with N293.05 billion achieved in report that it was considering Policy Committee ( MPC) noted the comparative period of 2019. nationalising Unity Bank Plc. in the communiqué it issued at Also, the lender posted gross CBN’s spokesman, Osita the end of its meeting that the earnings of N42.71 billion Nwanisobi, in a statement banking industry is in good health compared with N44.59 billion advised customers and other According to the communique: recorded in the comparative stakeholders of the bank to “the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) period of 2019. Its customer disregard the report, describing and the Liquidity Ratio (LR) both deposit portfolio grew by 34.4 it as the handiwork of mischief remained above their prudential per cent to N356.62 billion in makers. limits at 15.8 and 38.9 per cent, 2020, up from N257.69 billion He said: “The report is fake respectively. The Non-Performing posted in the corresponding news. There is iota of truth in it.” Loans (NPLs) at 5.89 per cent in period of 2019. He added that the public April 2021, showed progressive Profit after tax stood at N2.09 should disregard such news. improvement compared with 6.6 billion, while profit before tax The report had claimed that per cent in April 2020.” was N2.22 billion during the year the apex bank’s target examina- Unity Bank’s audited full year under review. Its net operating tion of Unity Bank showed that 2020 results showed improved income rose to N25.46 billion from the Tier 2 lender is in ,”grave performance in key parameters. N23.21 billion in the correspond- financial condition”, with Capital For instance, the Bank’s gross ing period of 2019, representing Adequacy Ratio (CAR) and loans portfolio increased by 92.9 a 9.71 per cent increase. BEDC Wants Structures Violating Power Lines’ RoW Demolished MARKET INDICATORS

The BEDC Electricity Plc The company also affirmed following up with the discon- MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) (BEDC) has urged relevant its readiness to partner with the nection of supply would serve state ministries for Lands, four state governments under its as a deterrent to others. JANUARY 2021 Surveys, Environment and franchise, namely: Delta, Edo, He added that deployment Money Supply (M3) 38,779,455.43 Public Utilities to identify, mark Ekiti and Ondo, and appealed to of social media platforms, use and demolish illegal structures/ them to ensure that all relevant of print and electronic media to -- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors 1,039,129.55 shops/buildings that violate laws in respect of the RoW of create widespread public safety Money Supply (M2) 37,740,325.88 the Right of Way (RoW) of power lines are activated by their awareness against trading or power lines in public interest. law enforcement agents to tackle building illegal structures under -- Quasi Money 21,779,302.69 BEDC Safety Manager, Mr. the menace. power lines could also be helpful. -- Narrow Money (M1) 15,961,023.19 Gilbert Nweke, was quoted in “In line with NEMSA directive, Speaking on measures to curb a statement to have stated this customers that violate the right vandalism of power infrastructure, ---- Currency Outside Banks 2,364,871.13 recently in Benin, of way of power lines can be Nweke called for the arrest and while presenting a paper on: disconnected while distribution prosecution of all vandals and ---- Demand Deposits 13,596,152.06 “Violation of Right of Way of companies should not extend those who receive stolen items Net Foreign Assets (NFA) 7,414,275.50 Power Lines and Vandalism electricity supply to prospective from them. of Power Infrastructure” at customers whose buildings/ He advised that vandals Net Domestic Assets(NDA) 31,365,179.93 the World Environment Day structures/businesses violate the of cable and other electrical -- Net Domestic Credit (NDC) 42,916,586.63 organised by Independent Radio right of way of power lines,” accessories arrested by the and Television (ITV), Benin, in Nweke said. According to him, Police should be paraded on ---- Credit to Government (Net) 12,304,773.44 partnership with Frontline Energy issuing letters of notifications television and other means of 0.00 and Environmental Consultancy of violation of RoW of power communications to also serve ---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA Services (FEECS). lines to identified defaulters and as a deterrent to others. ---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA) 0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS) 30,611,813.19 Ibadan Road: Contractor Highlights Cost of --Other Assets Net 3,892,112.74 Oyo Govt’s Refusal to Write Continuity Letter Reserve Money (Base Money 13,264,585.14 Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan ment must pay the liability to sum in case of such termination. --Currency in Circulation 2,831,167.19 avoid being dragged before a Haastrup said the terms were --Banks Reserves 10,433,417.96 ˾ÙßÜÍÏ̋ The construction firm handling London arbitration court. clearly stated in the contract --Special Intervention Reserves 317,234.17 the Ibadan Circular road, ENL The former deputy signed by both parties in 2017, Consortium Limited, has kicked governor laid the blame for the insisting that his firm would against the termination of the delay in delivering on the road remain on site until the sum Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) contract by Governor Seyi at the door step of the is paid. Month March 2018 Makinde. government, disclosing that all the The contract was for a 32-ki- Inter-Bank Call Rate 15.16 He alleged that the refusal of appeals made to the Makinde-led lometre road starting near the the state government to write the administration to write a letter of First Technical University on the Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) letter of continuity to its foreign continuity to the foreign lender Lagos-Ibadan expressway and lender would cost the state N10.6 funding the contract fell on deaf terminating at Badeku village Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) 14.00 billion as compensation to it. ears. According to him, the letter on the Ibadan-Ife expressway. Treasury Bill Rate 11.84 Makinde had terminated the was to assure the foreign lender The road was designed as a contract which was awarded to that the new administration which bypass for travellers from Lagos Savings Deposit Rate 4.07 the firm in 2017, for an alleged came into office in 2019, was fully passing through Ibadan to other delay in delivering the road. in support of the project despite parts of the country through 1 Month Deposit Rate 8.82 But the Chairman of the the change of government, stating Ibadan-Ife Road. firm, Prince Adesuyi Haastrup, that the liability incurred by the It was awarded by the late 3 Months Deposit Rate 9.72 while speaking with journalists government include N3.9 billion governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi 6 Months Deposit Rate 10.93 in Ibadan, put the total liability already expended on the project for a sum of N67 billion on a to the state government at N10.6 and N6.7 billion penalty being Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) 12 Months Deposit Rate 10.21 billion, warning that the govern- 10 per cent of the total contract basis for 25 years. Prime Lending rate 17.35 Chivita Launches ‘Chivita Active Zest’ Maximum Lending Rate 31.55 CHI Limited has unveiled nourishment. for optimum bone health, making ˾ÙØÏÞËÜãÙÖÓÍãËÞÏ̋ͯͱϱ Chivita Active Zest, a new “Chivita Active Zest comes in a it a smart choice to get the right OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE sub-brand under the Chivita premium 330ml Can format, and dose of essential vitamins and ˜ͷ ͰͮͰͯ Active franchise. it is made from a mix of citrus minerals for a healthy active life Vienna, Austria, 10 June 2021--The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at The company stated that fruits with all-natural ingredients, on the go,” a statement from the $71.19 a barrel on Wednesday, compared with $69.81 the previous day, according to OPEC the launch intends to disrupt no artificial preservatives, and company explained. Secretariat calculations. the mid-pack segment of the flavours. The new Chivita Active Zest The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan juice category by fulfilling the “Additionally, Chivita Active 330ml Can exudes confidence growing consumer demand for Zest is fortified with vitamin C and style, and appeals to the Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light a healthy on-the-go beverage for immunity support, is a good youth, providing satisfaction (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), to support their active lifestyle source of vitamin B1 and D3 for and refreshment away from Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and without compromising on great faster body metabolism. Chivita home in line with changing Merey (Venezuela). SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna taste, convenience, and enhanced Active Zest also contains calcium lifestyle trends. FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 • THISDAY 35 36 THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜2021 BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE CBN Denies Plan to Nationalise Unity Bank Obinna Chima Non- Performing Loans (NPL) per cent to N206.2 billion in 2020 ratio that breach prudential from N106.9 billion in 2019. The Central Bank of Nigeria standards. The bank’s total assets rose by (CBN) yesterday described However, analysts note that just 67.90 per cent when compared as “fake news,” a media last month, the CBN’s Monetary with N293.05 billion achieved in report that it was considering Policy Committee ( MPC) noted the comparative period of 2019. nationalising Unity Bank Plc. in the communiqué it issued at Also, the lender posted gross CBN’s spokesman, Osita the end of its meeting that the earnings of N42.71 billion Nwanisobi, in a statement banking industry is in good health compared with N44.59 billion advised customers and other According to the communique: recorded in the comparative stakeholders of the bank to “the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) period of 2019. Its customer disregard the report, describing and the Liquidity Ratio (LR) both deposit portfolio grew by 34.4 it as the handiwork of mischief remained above their prudential per cent to N356.62 billion in makers. limits at 15.8 and 38.9 per cent, 2020, up from N257.69 billion He said: “The report is fake respectively. The Non-Performing posted in the corresponding news. There is iota of truth in it.” Loans (NPLs) at 5.89 per cent in period of 2019. He added that the public April 2021, showed progressive Profit after tax stood at N2.09 should disregard such news. improvement compared with 6.6 billion, while profit before tax The report had claimed that per cent in April 2020.” was N2.22 billion during the year the apex bank’s target examina- Unity Bank’s audited full year under review. Its net operating tion of Unity Bank showed that 2020 results showed improved income rose to N25.46 billion from the Tier 2 lender is in ,”grave performance in key parameters. N23.21 billion in the correspond- financial condition”, with Capital For instance, the Bank’s gross ing period of 2019, representing Adequacy Ratio (CAR) and loans portfolio increased by 92.9 a 9.71 per cent increase. BEDC Wants Structures Violating Power Lines’ RoW Demolished MARKET INDICATORS

The BEDC Electricity Plc The company also affirmed following up with the discon- MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) (BEDC) has urged relevant its readiness to partner with the nection of supply would serve state ministries for Lands, four state governments under its as a deterrent to others. JANUARY 2021 Surveys, Environment and franchise, namely: Delta, Edo, He added that deployment Money Supply (M3) 38,779,455.43 Public Utilities to identify, mark Ekiti and Ondo, and appealed to of social media platforms, use and demolish illegal structures/ them to ensure that all relevant of print and electronic media to -- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors 1,039,129.55 shops/buildings that violate laws in respect of the RoW of create widespread public safety Money Supply (M2) 37,740,325.88 the Right of Way (RoW) of power lines are activated by their awareness against trading or power lines in public interest. law enforcement agents to tackle building illegal structures under -- Quasi Money 21,779,302.69 BEDC Safety Manager, Mr. the menace. power lines could also be helpful. -- Narrow Money (M1) 15,961,023.19 Gilbert Nweke, was quoted in “In line with NEMSA directive, Speaking on measures to curb a statement to have stated this customers that violate the right vandalism of power infrastructure, ---- Currency Outside Banks 2,364,871.13 recently in Benin, Edo State of way of power lines can be Nweke called for the arrest and while presenting a paper on: disconnected while distribution prosecution of all vandals and ---- Demand Deposits 13,596,152.06 “Violation of Right of Way of companies should not extend those who receive stolen items Net Foreign Assets (NFA) 7,414,275.50 Power Lines and Vandalism electricity supply to prospective from them. of Power Infrastructure” at customers whose buildings/ He advised that vandals Net Domestic Assets(NDA) 31,365,179.93 the World Environment Day structures/businesses violate the of cable and other electrical -- Net Domestic Credit (NDC) 42,916,586.63 organised by Independent Radio right of way of power lines,” accessories arrested by the and Television (ITV), Benin, in Nweke said. According to him, Police should be paraded on ---- Credit to Government (Net) 12,304,773.44 partnership with Frontline Energy issuing letters of notifications television and other means of 0.00 and Environmental Consultancy of violation of RoW of power communications to also serve ---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA Services (FEECS). lines to identified defaulters and as a deterrent to others. ---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA) 0.00

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS) 30,611,813.19 Ibadan Road: Contractor Highlights Cost of --Other Assets Net 3,892,112.74 Oyo Govt’s Refusal to Write Continuity Letter Reserve Money (Base Money 13,264,585.14 Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan ment must pay the liability to sum in case of such termination. --Currency in Circulation 2,831,167.19 avoid being dragged before a Haastrup said the terms were --Banks Reserves 10,433,417.96 ˾ÙßÜÍÏ̋ The construction firm handling London arbitration court. clearly stated in the contract --Special Intervention Reserves 317,234.17 the Ibadan Circular road, ENL The former Osun State deputy signed by both parties in 2017, Consortium Limited, has kicked governor laid the blame for the insisting that his firm would against the termination of the delay in delivering on the road remain on site until the sum Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) contract by Governor Seyi at the door step of the Oyo State is paid. Month March 2018 Makinde. government, disclosing that all the The contract was for a 32-ki- Inter-Bank Call Rate 15.16 He alleged that the refusal of appeals made to the Makinde-led lometre road starting near the the state government to write the administration to write a letter of First Technical University on the Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) letter of continuity to its foreign continuity to the foreign lender Lagos-Ibadan expressway and lender would cost the state N10.6 funding the contract fell on deaf terminating at Badeku village Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) 14.00 billion as compensation to it. ears. According to him, the letter on the Ibadan-Ife expressway. Treasury Bill Rate 11.84 Makinde had terminated the was to assure the foreign lender The road was designed as a contract which was awarded to that the new administration which bypass for travellers from Lagos Savings Deposit Rate 4.07 the firm in 2017, for an alleged came into office in 2019, was fully passing through Ibadan to other delay in delivering the road. in support of the project despite parts of the country through 1 Month Deposit Rate 8.82 But the Chairman of the the change of government, stating Ibadan-Ife Road. firm, Prince Adesuyi Haastrup, that the liability incurred by the It was awarded by the late 3 Months Deposit Rate 9.72 while speaking with journalists government include N3.9 billion governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi 6 Months Deposit Rate 10.93 in Ibadan, put the total liability already expended on the project for a sum of N67 billion on a to the state government at N10.6 and N6.7 billion penalty being Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) 12 Months Deposit Rate 10.21 billion, warning that the govern- 10 per cent of the total contract basis for 25 years. Prime Lending rate 17.35 Chivita Launches ‘Chivita Active Zest’ Maximum Lending Rate 31.55 CHI Limited has unveiled nourishment. for optimum bone health, making ˾ÙØÏÞËÜãÙÖÓÍãËÞÏ̋ͯͱϱ Chivita Active Zest, a new “Chivita Active Zest comes in a it a smart choice to get the right OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE sub-brand under the Chivita premium 330ml Can format, and dose of essential vitamins and ˜ͷ ͰͮͰͯ Active franchise. it is made from a mix of citrus minerals for a healthy active life Vienna, Austria, 10 June 2021--The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at The company stated that fruits with all-natural ingredients, on the go,” a statement from the $71.19 a barrel on Wednesday, compared with $69.81 the previous day, according to OPEC the launch intends to disrupt no artificial preservatives, and company explained. Secretariat calculations. the mid-pack segment of the flavours. The new Chivita Active Zest The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan juice category by fulfilling the “Additionally, Chivita Active 330ml Can exudes confidence growing consumer demand for Zest is fortified with vitamin C and style, and appeals to the Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light a healthy on-the-go beverage for immunity support, is a good youth, providing satisfaction (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), to support their active lifestyle source of vitamin B1 and D3 for and refreshment away from Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and without compromising on great faster body metabolism. Chivita home in line with changing Merey (Venezuela). SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna taste, convenience, and enhanced Active Zest also contains calcium lifestyle trends. THISDAY ˾  ͯͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 37

   Conoil Posts N1.44bn Profit, to Pay Shareholders N1.04bn Dividend Goddy Egene 2020, compared with N139.758 was significantly reduced from cent in PBT and PAT for the first million to N436 million, while services especially in the areas billion in 2019. N1.113 billion to N705 million. quarter (Q1) ended March 31, administrative expenses declined of marketing and growing the Shareholders of Conoil Plc are to Cost of sales printed at Conoil Plc, therefore ended 2021. Market analysts said this is from N1.628 billion to N1.285 bottom-line. receive a dividend of N1.04 billion N107.657 billion as against 2020 with a profit before tax an indication of higher returns billion. According to Adenuga, the for the year ended December N126.319 billion, making the (PBT) of N2.143 billion, lower than for shareholders at the end of As a result, PBT jumped by company had set an ambitious 31, 2020. The dividend, which company to end the year with N2.832 billion, while profit after the year if the performance 62.8 per cent from N382.915 growth strategy for the next five translates to 150 kobo per share lower gross profit of N9.818 billion tax (PAT) stood at N1.44 billion is sustained in the remaining million in 2020 to N623.428 years, driven by innovation and was recommended following the as against N13.439 billion in 2019. as against N1.972 billion in 2019. quarters. million, just as PAT rose by same market penetration. release of the audited results of Distribution expenses stood Hence, the board recommended Specifically, Conoil posted a margin from N260.382 million to He assured the shareholders the petroleum products marketing at N2.072 billion, down from a dividend of N1.04 billion or revenue of N33.091 billion in 2021, N423.931 million in 2021. that the company would con- firm. N3.074 billion the previous year, 150 kobo per share. compared with N38.144 billion The Chairman of Conoil Plc, solidate on its achievements to Details of the results showed just as administrative reduced Already, the company has recorded in the corresponding Mike Adenuga (Jr.) had promised deliver a strong and sustainable that the company recorded a from N6.603 billion to N5.182 started 2021 on a positive note, period of 2020.The firm reduced the shareholders of better execu- performance that enhance juicy revenue of N117.470 billion in billion, while net finance cost posting an increase of 62.8 per its distribution cost from N538 tion of value-added products and returns on their investment. PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED AS OF 10/06/2021

MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED PRICE TRADED ( N ) PRICE TRADED ( N ) 38 FRIDAY, JUNE 4, 2021 ˾THISDAY MARKET NEWS

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an ETF are bought by investors. Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. investment vehicle that allows both small and Bid Price: The price at which Investors Investors with similar objectives buy units of the large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total that willl generate their desired return. investments. The assets are divided into shares that return an investor would have earned on An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. his investment. Money Market Funds report of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, Yield while others report Year- to-date Total bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, GUIDE TO DATA: Return. etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 09- NAV: Is value per share of the real estate shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the Jun-2021, unless otherwise stated. assets held by a REIT on a specific date. DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Equity Fund 155.09 156.63 -4.13% Nigeria Entertainment Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 4.11% GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Nigeria International Debt Fund 304.05 304.05 -23.78% Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 Afrinvest Dollar Fund 111.42 111.42 -0.43% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD [email protected] GDL Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 ACAP Canary Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Income Funds N/A N/A N/A Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.39% AIICO CAPITAL LTD [email protected] Vantage Balanced Fund 2.81 2.88 22.68% Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 4.50% AIICO Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 149.67 150.11 -3.70% AIICO Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Vantage Equity Income Fund (VEIF) - June Year End 1.25 1.29 32.03% Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End 1.09 1.09 6.68% ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] [email protected] LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fi[email protected] Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 3.20% Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.38 1.40 1.39% Anchoria Equity Fund 130.53 131.98 -1.87% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,145.92 1,145.92 3.73% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.06 1.06 -20.04% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 19.22 19.80 5.96% Meristem Equity Market Fund 10.89 10.93 3.93% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 418.33 430.95 4.49% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 6.55% ARM Ethical Fund 37.80 38.94 12.15% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.08 1.09 -11.25% Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 ARM Fixed Income Fund 0.96 0.96 -14.60% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 4.65% PACAM Balanced Fund 1.66 1.69 7.16% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED [email protected] PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.39 12.46 2.20% Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 3.71% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Equity Fund 1.59 1.61 0.73% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 104.55 104.55 2.79% PACAM EuroBond Fund 111.02 112.64 0.97% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED [email protected] SCM CAPITAL LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 130.75 131.40 3.52% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.07% SCM Capital Frontier Fund 128.83 131.80 8.81% CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED [email protected] SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD [email protected] Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 1.95 1.95 -21.60% SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.01 1.01 3.21% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.02 2.06 -21.18% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com ; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 3,162.44 3,187.83 -1.66% CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 230.15 230.15 2.36% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.19 1.21 1.69% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 301.85 301.85 2.44% Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 221.20 223.95 1.23% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.70% Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 10,465.59 10,597.17 -0.35% Paramount Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.26 1.26 2.44% Women's Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 113.98 113.98 2.61% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund 101.39 101.39 Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.55% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 117.13 117.90 United Capital Balanced Fund 1.36 1.38 -0.47% Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 N/A N/A United Capital Bond Fund 1.95 1.95 2.87% Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 106.74 106.74 United Capital Equity Fund 0.93 0.95 7.47% CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT [email protected] United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 8.20% Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 United Capital Eurobond Fund 120.93 120.93 3.28% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.05 1.07 -2.68% Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 3.83% United capital Sukuk Fund 1.05 1.05 5.24% Coronation Balanced Fund 1.19 1.20 -0.83% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD [email protected] Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.37 1.37 -13.79% Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Zenith Equity Fund 12.28 12.39 3.53% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Ethical Fund 13.65 13.77 11.71% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 3.10% Zenith Income Fund 24.10 24.10 0.53% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 2.70% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 5.78% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,161.51 1,170.22 -2.97% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] REITS Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS REIT 123.83 2.56% FBN Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Union Homes REIT 51.43 -1.85% FBN Balanced Fund 186.87 188.06 -0.43% EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS FBN Halal Fund 109.81 109.81 6.76% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.30% Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund 12.81 12.91 -3.06%

SIAML Pension ETF 40 125.09 125.09 2.75% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 125.39 125.39 3.42% Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund 98.63 100.42 -0.77% FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 156.96 159.09 3.82% MERGROWTH ETF 17.13 17.23 FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] MERVALUE ETF 17.44 17.54 Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 3.38% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Debt Fund 3.95 3.95 2.07% Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund 3.69 3.73 -2.39% Legacy Equity Fund 1.57 1.60 3.08% Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund 5.61 5.69 -1.34% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.16 1.16 2.17% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund 17.14 17.24 4.82% Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Vetiva Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 3.84% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund 19.42 19.62 -5.33% Coral Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund 161.54 163.54 -26.21% Coral Income Fund N/A N/A N/A INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn Coral Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund 107.52 13.11% The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only. FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 • THISDAY 39 40 FRIDAY, ͹͹˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY INTERVIEW

Security Agents Have My Orders to be Ruthless with Bandits, Criminals, Says Buhari of unemployment and a lot of youth are looking for basically what to eat not even President Muhammadu Buhari fielded questions to talk about accommodation and others. The level of poverty is almost unimaginable on a wide-range of national issues from a team of and so this is our problem. But those who are really keeping in touch with what we are doing know the difference between journalists from ARISE NEWS Channel. The excerpts: the time we came in and now. And the people of North-east and South-south are in the system, whenever we have correct the best judges of the performance of this On rising insecurity administration. Corruption is very difficult under this system intelligence that someone is not being very When we came in, we closed the borders and even under the military system as I accountable, we would ease him out but we do not give it too much publicity. But I Spread of insecurity from North-east to with Benin Republic, Niger Republic. We have experienced both occasions. When North-west stopped smuggling and we asked Nigerians to I arrested people and put them in cages assure that those who are responsible and grow what they would eat and eat what they and said they were guilty until they prove are holding position know better that we do not tolerate corruption. I have had series of meetings with the whole would grow. So, the culture of importation themselves innocent and put investigation security operators - all the service chiefs and of rice and other foodstuffs, we stopped it. panels in most of the geopolitical zones for Implications of Death of Boko Haram Leader the Inspector-General of Police (IG). The ones We made fertiliser available and we are very people who have held positions such as that succeeded them had been part of the impressed with the reactions of Nigerians governors, ministers, head of parastatals system and we had series of meeting with because they went back to the farms. And and urge that people don’t get that position The problem of the North-east is very difficult. The present governor is working them, which usually last more than two we made sure our neighbours, especially in until they declare their assets. But when hours. Firstly, I allow them to go round and Niger, because of some, who would order they were faced with a bank statement and very hard and taking a lot of risks and I asked him if these Boko Haram fighters are see the position on the ground; they make food from Niger for the Nigerian market and their assets, which they could not explain, changes in their command. And we told the Nigerien government cooperated with their assets were taken away from them. our people; Nigerians or people coming from outside, he said it is our people. We tell them that we want confidence to be rebuilt us; we defended ourselves and Nigerian But unfortunately, eventually, I myself was and for people to go back to their land so did not regret it. arrested and detained and they were given them that you cannot kill innocent people back what they had looted. I assure you, and say ‘God is great' and it has worked War against corruption that despite the problem we are having very well but I think we have a problem Continued on page 41 FRIDAY, ͹͹˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY 41 INTERVIEW SECURITY AGENTS HAVE MY ORDERS TO BE RUTHLESS WITH BANDITS, CRIMINALS, SAYS BUHARI

that we wouldn’t have food problem and and if you can’t, the cattle are sold and Try and appreciate what efforts the federal the plan and why we are constructing the I think that is being done. We are giving the funds given to the farmer and people government has done. We have moved all railway. Niger has discovered oil as you it less publicity because we don’t want to were behaving themselves. And in the the service chiefs and brought in new ones know and we don't want them to go through make them aware that we are taking them grazing areas, they built earth dams, put and we have allowed them to go round and the Benin Republic. We want them to come head-on. But those who are in the field windmills and in some cases, they even had see the problem. They have been part of it through Nigeria. We hope that they will send know. There have been a lot of insecurity veterinary departments so that the herders all these times but now they are in charge through Maradi all their exports, through and we have stopped mining in Zamfara were limited. Their routes are known, their and we have made sure that their priorities Nigeria rather than through Benin. State, we expel the foreigners and we are grazing area is known and if there is any are to make sure they uphold normalcy. With the roads and the railways working, talking to the government; although he is problem, the locality would know. Those They are working very hard on this and those from Maiduguri to Port Harcourt, those not in the federal government’s party we who have encroached on these cattle routes they cannot give it enough publicity because from Kano to Lagos and so on, definitely, have to secure Zamfara, Sokoto, Kaduna and grazing areas would be dispossessed we don’t want to give warning to the real if you make the infrastructure, road, rail, and so on. and try to bring some order back. criminals. The ones in North-east we know work, I can assure you that Nigerians will But the important thing is the question The problem is trying to understand and the ones in South-south we know but keep themselves very busy and they will of local security operators. We have police the culture of the cattle rearers. There is the problem is North-west. The same people leave you alone. But when the roads are not in every town and I have been talking to cultural disunity between the Tiv’s and with the same culture are killing each other, working, the roads are virtually crippled; the police and trying to push them. They the Fulani’s and so the governor of Benue stealing each other’s cattle, burning their people will have so much time to harass you. don’t wear a uniform and use their rifle State said I am not disciplining the cattle villages and that is why we have said we to intimidate people but to make sure, if rearers enough because I am one of them. want to treat them in the language they Plan after retirement in 2021 necessary, to use it to bring security. In the I cannot say that I am not one of them, would understand. We have given the police North-east, you know what is happening but, but he is being unfair to me and I told and the military the power to be ruthless. Thank you very much for thinking that I in the South-south, I too was overwhelmed him that a Nigerian cattle rearer would You watch it; in a few months’ time, it am okay. I have never avoided my farm. I with what is happening but we are treating not carry anything more than a stick or would be different. We have told them if still have a number of cattle. When I leave, them as criminals now. There are a lot of in some cases a machete to cut some trees you keep people away from their farm, we I will still go to my farm daily. I will try casualties. and give it to the cattle to eat. But those are going to starve. And the government and keep myself busy. Between now and sophisticated ones are going with AK-47; cannot control the public because if you then, I will keep on convincing Nigerians Reaction to clamour for state police so, from all the Sahel areas, people rush to allow hunger to reign in the whole society, that I mean very well, I will make sure that Nigeria and they think they are Nigerians. the government would be in trouble. We the few identifiable problems that we have, I have been reading it in the newspapers and I can assure you that we are trying to are already in enough trouble and we have security, economy, fight against corruption, those of us who are old enough to know the resuscitate these cattle routes, grazing warned them and sooner than later, you we will continue to work on it and as I old era of Nigeria Police and so on, know areas and make them accountable. And would see the difference. said, visibly, we have made progress in the that at that time, the traditional institutions then this problem about taxes is the problem North-east, we have made progress in the were very effective in each community. I of accountability. When taxes where being South-east, IPOB and Twitter controversy South-south but I am overwhelmed almost would give you an example; recently, two paid, people were behaving themselves but in the North-west and they are going to governors from the South-west came to tell now without taxation, people are doing That IPOB is just like a dot in a circle, if get it very soon me that the cattle rearers in some of the whatever they like. they want to exist, they would not have forests there have killed their farmers while access to anywhere. And the way they are Legacy they were eating all their crops and told Reaction to clamour for devolution of Powers spread all over the country, having businesses them that ‘you campaigned to be elected and having properties, I think IPOB doesn’t I will like Nigerians to discuss it, I hope and you are elected; so, go back and sort If the three tiers of government, the federal, know what they are talking about. In any they will be fair to me. I wouldn't like to out yourself.’ There is a system where there state and local governments are being case, we said we would talk to them in say it myself. I will like Nigerians to try is security at every level from the local followed properly, we wouldn’t have all the language they would understand; we and spend time when we came, both the government to state and it consists of the these social problems. But the problem is would organise the police and military to security and the economy, where we were traditional leaders in that area who have that the local governments have been actually pursue them and that is what we can do for the eight years I may be around and been there for generations; so, they know all killed and that is not good for this country. and we would do it. try to look at it. I hope Nigerians will be the crooks in their locality - then the police Those who became the local government fair to me. This is all I need. and then those who come whether they are chairmen have been compromised. If your What about Twitter? cattle rearers or traders. They would meet local government, which is supposed to Massage on 6th Anniversary either monthly or quarterly and discuss the receive N300 million and you are given That I would keep to myself. security and if it is above them, they would only N100 million, it is not fair. Yes, under the system, Nigerians will say pass it on. So, I told all the governors to I think this question of accountability is On Nigeria – Niger Republic rail line what they want to say. They are all republics. go back and go to the old system so that very important. The schooling and education They don't even talk of the resources; how they would have intelligence to know what sector is suffering so much. For example, How many rail routes do you have? We we can engage ourselves, how we are going is happening in their constituency. They in my generation, I spent nine years in have to cultivate our neighbours. If you to share what we have invested when we just can’t go around winning elections and boarding school and the teachers then treated don't, you will be in trouble. If you could are together; how are we going to share then sit down and think someone would us as they would treat their own children recall, when I came on board, I had to go it out to ourselves, how are we going to do their job for them. and if you do well, you would be brought to Chad, Niger and Cameroon, which was be fair to ourselves and try and see our before the classroom and praised. But if you what happened with Boko Haram. If we young population. Reaction to open grazing ban misbehave, they would flog you in front were not on good terms with the three If we cut ourselves into pieces, can we win of the class; so, you would have to behave countries, Boko Haram would have done the confidence of investors, real investors You want me to contradict my attorney- yourself. But now, one of the chancellors worst things to us than this. to come in and provide employment, build general (he laughs). What I did was ask in Ogun State said that when he went to About Niger, our border with Niger is factories, produce goods and services and earn them to go and dig the gazette of the First his alma mater, he couldn’t differentiate about 1,400 kilometres. In Niger, I have to from taxation and employment? I don't like Republic when people were obeying laws. between the teacher and the children there. tell you this: the Europeans in 1885 sat down the way Nigerian elite is allowing ignorant There are cattle routes and grazing areas. The teachers used to take students as their with ruler and pencil and drew lines and or careless people to talk all over the place. They were moving upcountry from north to children and they had all the time for them I say I have first cousins in Niger. There We have so much to learn and so much to south or from east to west and they have to but over time, the standard has virtually are Kanuris, there are Hausas and there are guard together than to disorganise people's go through there. If you allow your cattle collapsed. Fulanis in the Niger Republic just as there way of thinking that if you become a republic, to stray into any farmer’s farm, you are are Yorubas in the Republic of Benin. You things will be alright. Look and see how arrested. The farmers are invited to submit Impact of bandits’ attacks can't absolutely cut them off. long it took us between 1960 and now, how their claims and the outcome is to pay But the rail, look at the plan, if you watch we came about; we have consolidated it. 42 FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 ˾THISDAY NEWSEXTRA Buhari: Railway will Reposition Ports for Export, Import Businesses FG secures 10 convictions for maritime crimes Deji Elumoye, Kasim Sumaina Metta, Lagos, with a declaration in June, 2019. that can transform industrial now be transported by rail ongoing railway infrastructure in Abuja and Sunday Okobi in that connection through rail will Buhari described the project and economic activities in the directly from the Apapa Port projects, embarked on the Lagos reposition Nigerian ports as the ‘‘as another milestone in the country. quayside straight to the Inland completion of the outstanding choice for import and export drive of this administration to On the benefits of the Container Depot located in segment of the Lagos-Kano President Muhammadu businesses. revitalise the railway system and Lagos-Ibadan corridor as well Ibadan from where it can be railway, which is Ibadan-Kano. Buhari yesterday inaugurated Buhari also said Nigeria had establish it as a choice mode of as other on-going railway distributed to other parts of ‘‘The Lagos-Kano railway the commercial operations of secured 10 convictions for various transportation for both passengers projects nationwide, Buhari said: the country. project, when complete will the $1.5 billion Lagos-Ibadan maritime offences since he signed and freight.’’ “This vital line establishes an ‘‘In clear recognition of the link the Kano-Maradi line at railway project at the Mobolaji into law the Suppression of Piracy He pledged that his end-to-end logistic supply chain challenges posed to our economic Kano and a rail link from the Johnson Railway Station, Ebute and other Maritime Offences Act administration would continue in railway transport within its growth by absence of strong and Nigeria southern ports of Lagos to prioritise the railway system short corridor, Lagos – Ibadan, as effective infrastructure, we have to Maradi in Niger Republic will PDP: APC-led Govt as a transportation backbone goods to the hinterland would in the rail sector, further to other be achieved. Appropriating Our Executed Projects Chuks Okocha in Abuja instead of addressing issues and providing direction for The Peoples Democratic Party the nation, “President Buhari (PDP) yesterday said that the exposed his cluelessness, paucity President Muhammadu Buhari’s of ideas for development while administration has appropriated making very provocative the projects it executed while comments that could embolden in government. terrorists as well as serve as Reacting to Buhari’s recipe for further division and National Publicity Secretary, violence in the country.” Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan said On the issue of infrastructure, the main opposition party PDP said it was ludicrous to it was dismayed that “while that Buhari can disingenuously millions of Nigerians eagerly seek to subtract the deliverables expected President Buhari to achieved by past PDP use the interview to address administration from his so-called PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT … salient issues confronting our achievement on infrastructure. L-R: Director, Technical Programmes, Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), Dr. Joseph Onoja; General Manager/ Head of Sustainability, nation, Mr. President bungled The PDP argued that Dangote Cement Plc, Eunice Sampson; Head, Community Affairs and Environment, Dangote Cement Plc, Mr. Tukur Lawal; Director General, the opportunity by being evasive President Olusegun Obasanjo, Nigerian Conservation Foundation, Dr. Muhtari Aminu-Kano, and the Group Chief Human Resources Officer, Dangote Industries Limited, and dodgy while attempting to who was elected on the platform Nglan Niat, during the commemoration of the World Environment Day at the Lekki Conservation Centre, Lekki, Lagos...yesterday lay claims to projects done by of the PDP, introduced a 25- year PDP administrations.” national development plan upon According to the PDP, assumption of office in 1999. Okowa: Why Southern Govs Called for National Dialogue Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi agitations in the interest of because when people sit the country not to stifle the Gowon: NYSC Has Contributed Okowa, yesterday, said that unity of the country. together to dialogue with voice of the oppressed, but Southern Governors’ Forum’s According to him, there are themselves, they are able urged them to close ranks and call for a national dialogue too many things going on to speak their inner minds, build a consensus to ensure More to National Devt than was to discuss various issues now in this country but it’s they are able to find ways of that peace pervaded the nooks and challenges currently of voices that tend to create a resolving. and crannies of the country. Other Organisations confronting the country. challenge for us and we need “So, we truly believe that “For those of us in the Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole to consider the idea of a trust Speaking when he received voices that will unite us as in the communication process governance space, we also in Abuja fund being championed by the National Coordinator and Nigerians. there must be a space for need to continue to hear the the Director-General NYSC, members of the Chartered The governor, however, people to air their views and people and to give room for Former Head of State and Brig. Gen Shuaibu Ibrahim, Institute of Information and said that “in seeking for that we also advise that there is people to air their opinions founder of the National Youth to improve the scheme. Strategy Management (CIISM) unity, if we have voices that still a lot of room to talk; so, on national issues. Service Corps (NYSC), General According to him, “The led by Dr Mustapha Olayinka, are getting strong because of our people should not take “We believe that if there is a Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has stated NYSC has contributed to at Government House, Asaba, one reason or the other, we up arms instead of talking national dialogue, obviously it that the NYSC has contributed national development more Okowa noted that there were need to be able to listen to with their voices. will help to reduce the tension to national development more than any other organisation many agitations for secession them. “We believe that in taking that we have today as a nation. than any other organisation in in the country. The authorities due to perceived injustice in “We need to be able to up arms, we are not doing “There is no doubt that the country. should consider setting up a the polity. accommodate those voices any good to Nigeria and we we are stronger together as He stated this yesterday trust fund for the scheme. He explained that proposed and that is why the Southern are not doing any good to a nation and everything that during the formal unveiling “I thank all the stakeholders national dialogue would Governors’ Forum actually did our individual communities.” is possible to keep us together of nine books on NYSC and who have made this scheme discuss and resolve the call for a national dialogue He called on leaders across as a nation, the better for us. the maiden NYSC film in a success, and I thank those Abuja to commemorate the who have documented all 48th anniversary of the scheme. the achievements of the Ondo Doctors Commence Warning Strike Gowon, while speaking scheme and this will promote James Sowole in had failed to pay their salary Arohunmolase, and Dr. Richard non-harmonisation of doctors’ virtually, advised both the the understanding of its arrears for some months, and Obe, respectively. grade level in Civil federal and state governments operations.” Citing poor welfare, including also failed to resolve the issue According to the letter some Service as approved by Mr. non-payment of their salaries of exodus of doctors and other the grounds for the industrial Governor, which is contained by the state government, health workers, among other action include “non-payment in the letter written to Nigerian Insecurity: El-Rufai Tasks DSS doctors in Ondo State under issues. of salaries arrears being owed Medical Association (NMA), the auspices of the National The association stated health workers in Ondo State Ondo State in March, 2021.” on Intelligence Gathering Association of Government this in a letter “Notice of (January, 2017, March, April and Other grounds are, General Medical and Dental Withdrawal of Service,’’ to May 2021), gross under-staffing “percentage payment of salaries John Shiklam in Kaduna and counter-intelligence, Practitioners (NAGGMDP), the state governor, Mr. Rotimi of government hospitals, to health workers, non-payment the DSS has a vital role to have embarked on a two-week Akeredolu. following mass exodus of of third tranche of COVID-19 The Governor of Kaduna play in providing the reliable warning strike. The letter was signed by the doctors and other health allowance, non- implementation State, Mr. Nasir El-Rufai, has information needed by the Specifically, the doctors State Chairman and Secretary workers from the state, non- of Group Life Insurance for declared that the Department police and armed forces and alleged that the government of the NAGGMDP, Dr. Roland regular payment of salaries and all Health workers.” of State Services (DSS), has a other security agencies for the vital role to play in providing total defeat of these dangerous reliable information needed insurgents. by the police, the Armed “This is an urgent priority Buhari Salutes 9th N’Assembly on Second Anniversary Forces and other security in the face of the looming Deji Elumoye in Abuja Adesina, said he believed the vision, courage and patriotism President, Dr. Ahmad Lawan agencies for the total defeat of food crisis that we face if legislative arm has brought of the Assembly, noting, with and the Speaker of the House bandits, insurgents and other our farmers do not go to The federal government has dignity and honour to the appreciation, the understanding of Representatives, Hon. Femi criminal elements terrorising the farms. felicitated with the leadership country, and looked forward and maturity of the lawmakers Gbajabiamila, congratulating the country. “The rains are here, and members of the Ninth to more years of harmonious in speedily processing bills that them for using their wealth El-Rufai stated this but farmers in various National Assembly on their working relationship, with focus directly impact the welfare of of experience, wisdom and yesterday when he declared communities are unable to second anniversary, extolling their on improving the livelihood of Nigerians, courageously finding knowledge to ensure a peaceful open the quarterly meeting go to their farms; that is when sense of duty and diligence in citizens, and creating an enabling common grounds to move the working relationship among of the Directors of the State they are lucky not to have fled handling issues relating to the environment for a prosperous country forward, and passionately lawmakers, between both Commands of the DSS in the their remote villages under development of the country. nation where both the young carrying out their oversight chambers, the Judiciary and the North West in Kaduna. pressure and attacks from President Muhammadu Buhari, and old can fully realise their functions with justice and fairness. Executive, by always focusing He said: “As the lead agency the criminals. This cannot in a statement issued yesterday dreams. The President presented on the larger picture of nation for domestic intelligence be allowed to continue.” by his Media Adviser, Mr. Femi President Buhari saluted the his goodwill to the Senate building FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 ˾THISDAY 43 NEWSEXTRA Catholic Bishops Insist on Restoring Nigeria to Secular State Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Amendment, which was and freedom (either alone or in belief in worship, teaching, as entirely composed, is contradictions entrenched signed by the President of community with others, and in practice and observance.’ evidently inflicted with inherent the operation of diverse legal The Leadership of the Catholic CBCN and the Archbishop public or in private) to manifest “Contrary to the above fundamental contradictions. systems and regimes in the one Church in Nigeria (CCN), of Benin City, His Lordship and propagate his religion or provisions, the 1999 Constitution, These inherent fundamental nation that is Nigeria.” under the auspices of the Augustine Akabueze, said there Catholic Bishops Conference is an inherent contradictions in of Nigeria (CBCN), has asked the present constitution that had the National Assembly to not augured well for the unity expunge all sections of the and progress of the country. Nigerian constitution that Akabueze listed Sections made references to Sharia or 260 to 264, Sections 265 to 269, any other discriminatory or Sections 275 to 279, as well divisive law. as Sections 280 to 284 of the The CCN said that there must 1999 Constitution as some of be an end to the practically the examples of contradictions established status that Islam in the legislations that needed enjoyed in the constitution in to be corrected. order to maintain the peace He said that Section 10 of and unity of the nation. the 1999 Constitution provided “We note in this regard that that “the Government of the while Islam is mentioned very Federation or of a State shall many times in the constitution, not adopt any religion as State there is not a single mention Religion. And that Section 38 of of Christianity or any other the 1999 Constitution, among religion in the constitution. This other things, provides that should be redressed,” it said. ‘every person shall be entitled to In a position paper submitted freedom of thought, conscience to the National Assembly and religion, including freedom Commitee on Constitutional to change his religion or belief, WITH DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS… L-R: Governor, Mr. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; his wife, Ambassador Olufolake Abdulrazaq; British Deputy High Commissioner, Ms. Gill Atkinson; and Country Director, Royal Commonwealth Society of Nigeria (RCS), Mr. Olaseni Blackson; during Telecoms Workers to a dinner in honour of the British High Commission and the RCS delegation to the state, at Government House, …recently Commence Three-day Ebonyi Not Part of Secession Agitation, Says Umahi Benjamin Nworie in Abakaliki any form of violent agitation to people of . We prefer state. We’ll confront anybody or Warning Strike prevail in any part of the state. a united one Nigeria of equality herder or criminal with AK-47 Ebonyi State Governor, Chief The governor noted that any of rights, equal opportunities, rifle. Protect yourself in all every Sunday Ehigiator abolished all over the world. David Umahi, yesterday stated agitation by group of persons or justice, fairness and equity. nook and cranny of the state. “We have made series of efforts that the people of the state are region must follow due process. “As a state, we have vowed “Form your vigilante, and if The Private Telecommunications in the past, including but not not interested in any secession He called on the Ebonyi not to allow any form of violent they write you that they are and Communications Senior limited to escalating the issues agitation, as they prefer a united people to protect themselves agitation; any agitation must coming, tell them to come. We Staff Association of Nigeria to the Honourable Minister Nigeria. by forming vigilance groups follow due process; we prefer are not afraid. We have also (PTECSSAN), has planned a of Labour and Employment, Umahi, who stated this at across the state, as the state one Nigeria and not secession. resolved to employ 5,000 civil three-day warning strike to the Honourable Minister of an enlarged Security Council would confront any criminal Any alleged injustice must be servants between now and protest what it described as the Communications and Digital and stakeholders’ meeting or herder coming into the state complied and given to leaders of December, and empower 3,000 “Precarious Working Conditions Economy and the House at the Christian Ecumenical with AK-47 rifles. the zone who will in turn send Ebonyi people. This meeting will and Gross Disregard for Laws Committee on Communications, Centre in Abakaliki, the state According to Umahi, “We same to the National Assembly. be heard once every month. We and Institutions of Nigeria by yet, these employers believe capital, maintained that the state have agreed that we are not “We have heard of rumours of will do everything possible to Employers in Telecommunications they are bigger than the nation government would not allow interested in any secession as a herdsmen planning to attack the protect our people.” and Communications Sector.” and would not respect our A signed statement by the institutions.” President of the PTECSSAN, The association also listed some Police Arrest Nine Suspects over Attack on Uzodimma’s Home Mr. Opeyemi Tomori, which of “the anti-labour practices in Imo State Police Command Police spokesman, SP Bala Elkana. of IPOB/ESN, and made useful “However, two out of the nine was made available to the sector” and lamented the yesterday said it has arrested nine It partly read; “On the 8/6/21 statements to the Police as regards arrested in the hideout, Chinedu THISDAY yesterday, revealed breach of freedom of association suspects in connection with the at about 1630 hrs, Tactical teams to the recent attacks on Police Nwakaire, aka One Door, 48 years that the industrial action would and right of the members by attack on the country home of of the Command through diligent stations as well as the residence old Uzoamaka Ugoanyanwu, commence by 12 midnight of their employees as well as the the Governor Hope Uzodimma. and painstaking investigations, of Governor Hope Uzodinma. their native doctor, 40 years old, Tuesday, June 16, and expected “victimisation of union members Also, the command disclosed stormed Ukwuorji, Mbaitoli Local “He further led operatives of were identified to be part of the to last for three days. and poor and discriminatory that it has arrested suspected native Government area, along Onitsha the Command to the IPOB/ESN hoodlums that attacked the private The statement reads: “This remuneration.” doctor who prepared charms for road, and arrested one Ezeugo camp a bush close to Njaba River; residence of Gov. Hope Uzodimma strike has become inevitable Other issues highlighted by fighters of Eastern Security Network Ordu, male and 65-year- old nine persons were arrested at the and also some Police stations as because of growing precarious the PTECSSAN were increasing (ESN). native of Ubachima, Omuma, criminal hideout while planning well; they confessed to the crime, working conditions in the sector spate of precarious work, 24 This disclosure was made Oru West LGA. another attack; assorted charms and also stated their roles during and gross disregard for our laws hours working conditions, lack through a statement by the state “He confessed to be a member were recovered from them. the operations. and its institutions. of hazard allowance, disregard “This is the 21st Century; for occupational health and safety workers in the sector are still and “gross disregard for the laws being treated like slaves even and institutions of government House Passes Bill Seeking to Ban Bankers from Operating Foreign Account though slavery has long been in Nigeria.” Udora Orizu in Abuja Act, Cap. B1 Laws of the the intendment of the Act, reflect their earnings, and Federation of Nigeria, 2004 among others, is to make to discourage them from The House of Representatives to reflect the prevailing provisions for the declaration engaging in corrupt practices. 2023 Presidency: Rescue Us, at the plenary yesterday situation in the country, of assets by employees of He also said the passed for a second reading and for Related Matters’, is banks operating in Nigeria, amendment being sought a bill seeking an amendment sponsored by Hon. Abiola and to empower the president would also ensure that the Northern Youths Tell Saraki, PDP to the Bank Employees Shina Peller (APC, Oyo). to extend its application to process of asset declaration for Chuks Okocha in Abuja action, because this government Declaration of Asset Act to The bill, among others, also other categories of persons. Customs officers is made less has failed us. We are regretting ban bank employees from seeks to remove the Secretary According to him, the cumbersome, as they would A coalition of northern youth our actions, and we are tired. owning foreign accounts. to the Government of the policy behind the Act was no longer be required to groups in the 19 northern states There is no security and food The proposed legislation Federation (SGF) as custodian aimed at monitoring the declare their assets to the SGF, has called on former Senate in the country, and that is why entitled: ‘A Bill for an Act to of declaration forms. activities of bank employees but to the Code of Conduct President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, we are here. We have come to Amend the Bank Employees, Leading the debate on its and Customs officers to Bureau (CCB) as contained in and the Peoples Democratic the PDP for rescue in 2023.” Etc. (Declaration of Asset) general principles, Peller said ensure that their life style the 1999 Constitution. Party (PDP) to come to the He said going by the present rescue of Nigeria by 2023. challenges Nigeria, the country The youth groups under the is in need of a leader like Saraki aegis of ‘Saraki is Coming’ made with quality leadership character Adebayo: New Trade Policy to Reflect Global Reality the appeal during a peaceful to rescue it James Emejo in Abuja lamented the absence of a ‘colossus’ that should be respected Muhammadu Buhari had directed protest at the PDP National According to the coalition trade policy for the country, a when compared with other that the celebration be year-long Secretariat in Abuja yesterday. leader, “As the Senate leader, The Minister of Industry, Trade and development which they linked to regional economies, particularly to last till September, considering The President of the group, he evinced the capacity to Investment, Mr. Niyi Adebayo, the increasing cases of dumping , following recent comments the “significance of the age in our Umar Kazaure, while speaking connect with all levels of yesterday said a new trade policy of substandard products and other that the economy of the latter may journey to nationhood.” during the protest, apologised to government and levers of power to reflect the current realities in adverse trade practices by foreign have edged out the former in As a result, the minister said Saraki on behalf of the youths in a compelling, compassionate the global economy would be countries. recent times. an inter-ministerial ownership for not heeding his advice to and credible manner, and in this unveiled by the end of the year. However, Adebayo at a press The minister, however, said sub-committee on the anniversary vote for the PDP in the 2019 challenging time the country He said the document which conference on the Nigeria at 60 preparations had commenced had outlined a series of activities general election. finds itself, we should go for the was currently being updated celebration, pointed out that the towards the continuation of the aimed at drawing attention to According to him, “In 2019, most credible, most believable would soon be submitted to proposed blueprint would be Nigeria @60 celebration. those attributes that the country is Saraki warned us to vote PDP, and most authentic person, who the Federal Executive Council “one that would be applauded Although the country turned endowed with and which needed but we did want anti-party, but has the genuine interest of the (FEC) for approval. by Nigerians.” 60 on October 1, 2020, Adebayo to be harnessed for the common now we are regretting our people at heart.” Analysts have severally He also described Nigeria as a explained that President good of all. 44 FRIDAYJUNE 11, 2021 ˾THISDAY 24 HOURS... 24 HOURS... NBA President, Lafia Emir, Others to Monitor Govs’ Compliance with JUSUN Agreement Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja on the suspended JUSUN strike and Shari’a Courts Judges in Malami, has expressed hopes the implementation of the Malami stated this in a through his email newsletter Zamfara State, the Attorney that with the presentation of Executive Order 10 for the statement issued by his Special The President of the Nigerian to members yesterday. General of the Federation and vehicles, the state and federal financial autonomy of the Assistant on Media and Public Bar Association (NBA), Mr. According to the newsletter Minister of Justice, Abubakar government will work towards state legislature and judiciary. Relations, Dr. Umar Gwandu. Olumide Akpata; the Emir sighted by THISDAY, Bage was of Lafia, a retired Justice of named the chairman of the the Supreme Court, Justice five-man committee. Sidi Bage; the President of The NJC had in a the National Industrial Court statement by its Director of (NIC), Justice Benedict Kanyip; Information, Soji Oye, on the Chief Judge of , Wednesday said it had set Justice Onuoha Ogwe; and Dr up a five-man monitoring Muiz Banire (SAN) are the committee to ensure that members and chairman of the state governors do not the committee set up by the renege on their obligations National Judicial Council (NJC) under the MoA. to monitor the implementation In the email, Akpata said: of Memorandum of Action “The move by the NJC is to (MoA) signed between the ensure that the governors do Nigeria Governors Forum not renege from their financial (NGF) and the Judiciary Staff and ancillary commitments, Union of Nigeria (JUSUN) on which influenced JUSUN’s the financial autonomy for the decision to suspend the strike,” judiciary. he said in the mail. Akpata disclosed the In a speech delivered identities of the committee yesterday at the presentation of members in an update report official vehicles to Magistrate WAR AGAINST CRIMINALS… L-R: Deputy Governor of , Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo; Governor Douye Diri; and the state Commissioner for Police, Mike Okoli, during the presentation of operational vehicles to security agencies in the state at the Government Again, Suspected House, Yenagoa…yesterday Herdsmen Kill 11 Farmers in Benue CDS Meets Top Military Officers over George Okoh in Makurdi laid ambush for some villagers who were going to the farm Planned Retirement of Generals Suspected herdsmen have this morning, knowing full ambushed farmers in Benue well that many of the villagers Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja of their junior, Major General balance. directed that all their course State and killed 11 of them would be going to farm after Farouk Yahaya, as the Chief THISDAY had reported that mates in the Navy and the Air in some communities in two the downpour. In line with THISDAY’s of Army Staff (COAS). the CDS would meet with Force would also be eased out local government areas of the “They hid in the bush and exclusive report, the Chief of No fewer than 29 major the affected officers yesterday While some of the generals state. allowed many of them to Defence Staff (CDS), General generals were said to be senior to fashion out how best to would go to the National The armed herders were go and then ran after them, Lucky Irabor, yesterday met to Yahaya who is a member handle their case. Institute of Policy and said to have attacked Anyom macheted them. As am talking with senior military officers, of Regular Course 37. Irabor had directed the Strategic Studies (NIPSS), community of Mbatyula to you now, we have been able who are members of the With Yahaya as the army officers to proceed on courses Kuru, near Jos, others council ward in Katsina-Ala to recover five corpses and Regular Course 36 over their chief, the fate of his senior of their choice for one year. would go to other elite on Wednesday, while some the youths are searching for fate following the appointment continued to hang on the He was also said to have institutes. herdsmen also invaded Zongo- others who are still missing.” Akiki village in Mbalagh The second attack at Anyom council ward in Makurdi community of Mbatyula NEXIM Bank Opens Window for Youth, Women Exporters in Kebbi Local Government Area. council ward in Katsina-Ala Ismail Adebayo in Birnin Kebbi of Nigerians were below 25 Birnin Kebbi, the state capital. Bank of Nigeria, whose One of the locals in Makurdi was said to have occurred years, while over 50 per cent He added that the decision mandate is to diversify the LGA said that the suspected Wednesday afternoon. The Managing Director of belong to the female gender and to also launch the scheme in external sector of the Nigerian herdsmen stormed Zongo- According to the media aide Nigerian Export Import Bank as such, these segments of the Kebbi was informed by the economy towards increased Akiki community in the early to the chairman of Katsina (NEXIM), Mr. Abba Bello, has population can, therefore, not strong enthusiasm shown by jobs creation and foreign hours of Thursday where they Ala LGA, Tertsea Benga, six given reasons why Kebbi State be ignored by an interventionist youths in the state, under the exchange earnings from the killed five persons. persons were reportedly killed. became the first state where agency like NEXIM “ hence auspices of the Kebbi Youth non-oil export sector, observed The Chairman of Makurdi Addressing journalists on the women And Youth Export our decision to establish the Connect Initiative and in also, the unfolding dynamics LGA, Hon. Anthony Dyegeh, the incident, Benga said the Development Facility (WAYEF) Women and Youth Export recognition of the wide array of of the Nigerian economic who confirmed the killing of attackers invaded the victims’ was launched after the Federal Facility (WAYEF) as a deliberate exportable products, including environment and the need for the persons, said the youths farmlands with their cows. Capital Territory, Abuja. and targeted funding scheme groundnuts, Cotton, Onions, specific policy intervention to were still searching for the He further disclosed that According to Bello, the to address the needs of these which are available in the state promote economic and social missing persons. the herders killed the farmers United Nations Population vulnerable groups. and could be harnessed by inclusion of key segments of Dyegeh said, “The Fulani they met on the farm and projection for Nigeria in 2020 The Managing Director women and youths. the population, in particular took away some women indicated that about 62 per cent disclosed this yesterday in NEXIM as the Trade Policy the women and youth. CHANGE OF NAME while the whereabouts of others remained unknown. I formally known and address Benue State Police Ondo Govt, PDP Clash over N2bn Governor’s Lodge as OGBU UGOCHUKWU EM- Command’s spokesperson, James Sowole in Akure misplaced priority in view of claimed structural defects in the He argued that it would MANUEL, now wish to be known Catherine Anene, said she unpaid workers’ salaries. Governor’s Lodge that was built be cost effective to build a and address as NWABUEZE UGO- did not have details of the The Ondo State Chapter of the But the state government by his immediate predecessor, new lodge than to correct the CHUKWU EMMANUEL. All former incidents. Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) in a statement issued by the Dr. Olusegun Mimiko. defect in the one built by the documents remain valid. The gen- and the Ondo State Government Commissioner for Information Akeredolu laid the foundation immediate past administration. eral public should please take note. CHANGE OF NAME (ONSG), clashed yesterday over and Orientation, Mr. Donald for the building of a befitting But the PDP chairman I formally known and address as I, formerly known and addressed the government’s decision to Ojogo, described the PDD’s new Governor’s Lodge last said it was unexpected for IBRAHIM MONSURAT BISOLA, as MISS ANWARA ALPHONSIA build a new Governor’s Lodge. position as a demonstration week and clarified that the a government that has a CHIDINMA now wishes to be known The PDP, at a news conference of ignorance. project became imperative backlog of unpaid salaries now wish to be known and address addressed by its State Chairman, Adams challenged the because of the structural defect for workers to embark on the as MRS YUSUF MONSURAT BI- and addressed as MRS. ONYEG- BULA HENRIETTA CHIDINMA. Hon. Fatai Adams, described Governor, Mr. Oluwarotimi in the lodge built by Mimiko’s proposed Governor’s Lodge SOLA. All former documents remain All former documents remain valid. the proposed project as a Akeredolu, to make public the administration. at N2 billion. valid. The general public should Coventry University and the gen- please take note. eral public to please take note. I formally known and address as I formally known and address as NSCDC to Establish Rapid Response Squad in All States TAKAI ABBA NAHUNGU, now OBELEZIKE JOY ONYEDIKA, Michael Olugbode in Abuja NSCDC as part of the efforts to reposed on the corps by the down on all bad elements in your wish to be known and address now wish to be known and ad- rejig the activities of the organisation Commander in Chief, President area of assignment and avoid any as ABBA ALHAJI KAWU. All dress as OFFIA JOY ONYEDIKA. The Commandant-General of the and enhance the capabilities of Muhammadu Buhari and the tribal, religious and ethnic sentiment All former documents remain valid. Nigeria Security and Civil Defence officers and men in the states. Nigerian citizens must be sustained to justify your posting and prove former documents remain valid. Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Audi, He said it has become imperative and improved upon. your competence.” The general public should please The general public should please has ordered the immediate set-up to replicate the creation of the He charged the state He urged the commandants take note. take note. of Rapid Response Squad (RRS) RRS in every state command commandants to beef up security to ensure that the RRS would I formally known and address I formally known and address in all the state commands of the to respond to all forms of crime in their respective states to forestall adhere to all Standard Operating as AU USMAN MUHAMMED, as ADAORA LUCYMARY EME- corps. and criminalities in real and any breakdown of law and Procedures (SOPs) in line with now wish to be known and ad- JULU, now wish to be known and Audi gave the matching order quick time and ensure prompt order before, during and after international best practices and to dress as USMAN A. DATTI. All address as ADAORA LUCYMARY on Thursday during an orientation and timely intervention in times the Democracy Day celebration. rejuvenate the intelligence gathering former documents remain valid. IKE-OKAFOR. All former docu- programme organised for the of emergencies, disasters and Audi said: “Power is not a gift capabilities in order to address the unforeseen security breaches. but a responsibility and to whom security challenges peculiar to their The general public should please ments remain valid. The general newly promoted commandants The NSCDC boss also public should please take note. and serving state commandants much is given much is expected. area of assignment and the nation take note. at the national headquarters of the maintained that the confidence You must be determined to clamp in general. FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 ˾THISDAY 45 24 HOURS... 24 HOURS... House Urges FG, Niger Govt to Rescue 136 Abducted Students Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Rafi Local Government Area to curb escalating insecurity Haram elements in the state. infrastructure and property; the fear of being attacked. of the state. across Niger State. He recalled that there was a carting away food stuffs, Abdulahi stressed that the The House of Representatives The House also called on The resolution of the House mass abduction of about 136 rustling cattle and other domestic aftermath is the aggravation has called on the federal the National Security Adviser followed the adoption of a children from Mallam Salihu animals, and instilling fear in of food insecurity and threats government to maintain (NSA), Service Chiefs, Inspector motion moved at the plenary Tanko Islamic School in Tegina the minds of people across the to the peaceful co-existence and constant collaboration with General of Police and other yesterday by Hon. Saidu recently. state and country. socio-economic stability of the the Niger State Government security agencies to re-jig Abdullahi. The lawmaker lamented that The lawmaker said the country. to secure the immediate release security architecture with a Moving the motion, Abdulahi two weeks after the abduction, huge investments of this He added that recently, a of the 136 students abducted view to putting in place effective said for the past few months, the children are still in captivity. administration in the agriculture prince from Kontagora Emirate from Islamic School in Tegina, strategies and counter-measures Niger State has been making Abdulahi decried that the sector across the state have been and others were killed, while critical headlines in the news bandits have been gruesomely practically frustrated, as the about five people were abducted due to the worsening activities torturing and killing innocent farmers can no longer cultivate from Batati in Lavun LGA in ZLP: NEF’s Statement on Attacks of bandits, kidnappers and Boko lives; destroying critical their farms as a direct result of the state. in South-east Exaggerated to Deny Igbo 2023 Presidency Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja journalists yesterday in Abuja, noted that the legitimate agitation The Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) for an equitable and fair society has lamented that the attacks in Nigeria and the anger against allegedly carried out by the marginalisation against the Igbo Indigenous People of Biafra people can never be resolved (IPOB) in the South-east region through violence. was exaggerated by the Northern Nwanyanwu noted that the Elders’ Forum (NEF) just to deny Igbo cannot cut their noses the Igbo people the presidency to spite their faces, saying in 2023. it would be embarrassing, The NEF had recently frowned counterproductive and at the alleged attacks carried out primitive to do that. by IPOB in the region, stressing He stated: “The utterances of that Nigerians are paying the supposed prominent Nigerians price of failure of two sets of in high places, including leaders, as it added that at the misguided leaders of pseudo national level, “the administration organizsations purporting to appears to have lost the capacity speak for the North, have to halt the gradual descent of ceased every opportunity to CONGRATULATIONS… the country into anarchy, while exaggerate the direction of L-R: Comptroller of the Lagos State Command of Nigeria Immigration Service (NlS), Bauchi Aliyu ; newly promoted officer, Chief political leaders in the South-east the attack in the Southeast, Superintendent Immigration Udeme Ndifreke; and her husband, Mr. Nathan Ndifreke, during her decoration in lkeja, Lagos…yesterday region appear to have submitted and follow up such deliberate to violence and terror of IPOB incitement to threaten death and ESN.” and genocide on Igbo people However, the National all over the country. This I Didn’t Resign, Says Imo Deputy Gov Chairman ZLP, Chief Dan is being intensified as we Imo Deputy Governor Prof. “My attention has been drawn “This story has no iota Distinguished Senator Hope Nwanyanwu, in a chat with approach 2023. Placid Njoku has denied reports to the fake news circulating in of truth in it but is a mere Uzodimma, Executive Governor he has resigned, dismissing them the social media purporting that figment of the imaginations of Imo State and indeed with as baseless. the Deputy Governor of Imo of those working against the every member of the state FG Employs 4,452 Monitors Njoku, in a statement by his State, His Excellency Prof Placid Government and people of executive Council, including Chief Press Secretary, Ozioma Njoku has resigned. Imo state members of the state legislature.” for NSIP Ukwuoma, insisted the reports “While it remains our practice “The Imo State Deputy He enjoined Imo people to Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja She said the SIMIS application have no iota of truth, attributing to ignore such baseless stories, Governor, His Excellency disregard such unfounded would provide a real-time them to those who had been the need to put the truth out Prof. Placid Njoku enjoys a rumours and continue The federal government has update on the government working to distabilise the state to concerned imo citizens has robust working relationship supporting the peace and offered engagement letters National Home-Grown School The statement reads partly: necessitated this rebuttal. with his boss, His Excellency, development of the State. and tablets to 4, 452 trained Feeding Programme and others. independent monitors of the Farouq said out the 5,000 National Social Investment independent monitors identified Tension as Protesting Youths Lay Siege to Conoil Platform in Delta Programme (NSIP). and shortlisted for the training, Sylvester Idowu in Warri for easy management of Forum, Monday Agbeyi, who Uwakeno, Omadino, Ewekwara, The Minister of Humanitarian which was flagged off on relationship with the oil company, led the protesters, told journalists Jaluwa Efueye, Aka Osolo and Affairs, Disaster Management February 4, 2021, 4452 were Palpable tension yesterday were angry over non recognition that Conoil should vacate the Obodo are saying, with this and Social Development, Sadiya trained across the country. enveloped Obodo community in of the leadership put in place area for allegedly disrespecting protest, we are tired of the Umar Farouq, at the unveiling According to her, “The first Warri South Local Government since January 8, 2021, in spite constituted authorities in the state. disrespectful disposition of of the Social Investment batch of the training was carried Area of Delta State, as hundreds of letters written by the Olu of He said: “Today marks Conoil Producing Limited for Management Information System out from February 17, 2021, to of protesting youths laid siege Warri palace as well as that of the expiration of a 14-day constituted authorities, and of (SIMIS) application to monitor February 27, 2021 in the 36 states on Conoil oilfield in the area Delta State Government to Conoil ultimatum given to Conoil course left with no other option programmes under the NSIP and the FCT. Mop-up training over alleged neglect by the oil Producing Limited. Producing Limited to respect the than to issue quit notice to the yesterday, said the monitors was organised and carried out company. Some of the placards carried proclamations made by the seven company.” would be paid N30, 000 monthly zonally from March 25, 2021, THISDAY learnt that the by the youths read: ‘We want landlord communities, the palace Explaining further, Agbeyi as a stipend after meeting 80 to April 1, 2021, to provide all quick intervention of security recognition of Monday Agbeyi- of Olu of Warri and the Delta maintained that they had no per cent of their deliverables the independent monitors that men stationed at the company led Executive’; ‘Conoil is dividing State Government to recognise other issues with the oil company monthly to be eligible for their missed the initial training with prevented the oilfield from being our leaders to cheat us’; ‘Conoil and commence dealings with the other than to respect the positions stipend. the opportunity to train. shut down by the angry youths. is denying us of our rights’; ‘We Agbeyi-led executive of OML of the people, Olu of Warri Palace It was learnt that the youths will shut down Conoil operations 150 Communities Consultative and the Delta State Government, from seven host communities soon’, among others. forum or should vacate our land. and deal with the new executive, Stop Bloodletting, South-east under the Auspices of OML 150 Chairman of OML 150 “The seven landlord or quit operations on their Women Group Cries Out Consultative Forum, established Communities Consultative communities namely: Ifiekporo, land. Oluchi Chibuzor group, Onyeka Onwenu, said: Bagudu: Communities Need to Do More to Fight Banditry “Something dreadful is happening Deji Elumoye in Abuja advised that rather than being operandi. needs of security agencies. Igbo women in the South-east in our states, and we demands in a hurry always, communities “Sometimes, they get risk The government will never the immediate intervention of region under the auspices of should realise that security reports in places that 500 be able to provide enough. Credible Igbo Women Initiative the president.” The recent bandits’ attacks on personnel are also human people are coming to attack Much is being done. But it (CIWI) yesterday urged President She urged the government to some parts of Kebbi State have Muhammadu Buhari, and ensure there is peace and stability provoked reaction from the state beings who require support and maybe the local Divisional will never be enough for other state actors in the region in the region as enshrined in the Governor, Atiku Bagudu, who especially by way of passing Police Officer (DPO) can communities, and I’m sure to intervene in the massive constitution. emphasised on the need for information. only mobilise 20 policemen. that in all communities, there bloodletting in their region. Owenu said: “Please Mr. communities to do more to He said: “We call for vigilance Already, that confronts him are people who can support According to them, the call was President stop the killings in assist security agencies, who and support for security with a challenge. So, they the police.” necessary because of the alarming our states, as we can no longer are also having some challenges, agencies. Security agencies are need truthful information. They Commenting on his meeting level of insecurity in the region endure burying our children. We in routing out criminal elements doing a great job but they are need synergy with vigilance with the president, Bagudu said: and the country in general, which want peace and progress in the in their domains. also human beings. They need groups and community support “I met with President Buhari has resulted in lives being wasted region. Speaking with journalist a lot of community support for so that they can continue to to brief him, among others, on on a daily basis. “The federal government is after meeting separately with information and understanding respond more appropriately. some security issues relating to Speaking at a conference obliged to protect all the people of President Muhammadu Buhari because sometimes, we are all Also, sometimes they need my state, because about two held in Lagos yesterday on Nigeria, including the lgbo, who and his Chief of Staff, Prof in a hurry when we are facing support with logistics. weeks ago, there was a boat the theme: ‘Enough of this are currently under heavy armed Ibrahim Gambari, at the State challenges. But the security “Communities hardly incident that claimed many Killing’, the spokesperson of the attack by air and land daily.” House, Abuja, the governor agencies also have modus reflect on all the logistic lives. 46 FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 ˾THISDAY

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email [email protected] FRIDAYSPORTS 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY NPFL: Akwa Utd Back at the Top, MFM FC Hold Abia Warriors Femi Solaja of the hosts team. Charles Atshimene was a fixture that was played state’s representatives in the a state preliminaries in The victory catapulted the two-goal hero for the Thursday morning following 2021 AITEO Cup. view of the NFF Monday The Nigeria Professional Akwa United back to the home side with Ubong Wednesday’s heavy rain. This resolution was reached 14th June 2021 deadline Football League’s Match-day top of the NPFL table, in Friday reducing the tally for both sides remained where in a meeting between Club day for submission of state 26 between place of Kano Pillars who the visitors before Chijioke they were before the match - Owners and the State’s representatives. Akwa United FC and lost 0-2 in Port Harcourt 24 Akuneto restores Akwa MFM 10th and Abia Warriors Football Association The Akwa Ibom State Heartland ended 3-1 in favour hours earlier. United’s two-goal lead. 13th. Wednesday morning in Uyo. Football Association will Earlier, MFM FC failed Meanwhile, clubs in Akwa The club owners based therefore submit Akwa to break the defence of Ibom State have unanimously their decision on the limited United FC as the state’s ‘World Athletics, CAA, AFN, visiting Abia Warriors in chosen Akwa United as the time available to prosecute sole representative. Agree on Kebbi Elections’ The Athletics Federation of shall convene the Congress, Nigeria (AFN) under the while Article 19.1 of the 2019 leadership of Engr Ibrahim edition states: The President Shehu Gusau has announced of the AFN shall convene all that any election planned for Congress Meetings. Abuja will be null and voided Hence, any congress not in line with the agreement convened by the President will between the World Athletics, be termed illegal and decisions the Confederation of African taken therein will be null, void Athletics (CAA) and the AFN and of no consequence. statement stressed. “Furthermore, it is on record According to the AFN that the July 1, 2020 ruling by President, Engr Ibrahim His Lordship, Hon. Justice A. I. Shehu Gusau, the claim that Chikere, in suit number FHC/ World Athletics rejected the ABJ/CS/113/2020 between amended Constitution of the Hon. Engr. Ibrahim Shehu AFN was false, malicious with Gusau, Ph.D (Plaintiff) and the sole intention of scuttling Hon. Minister of Youth & the roadmap for the 2021 AFN Sports Development, Federal elections slated for Kebbi State. Ministry of Youth & Sports “The claim by these Development, Prince Adisa other people that the World A. Beyioku and Mr Olamide Athletics has rejected the George (Defendants) gave amended constitution is false an order of perpetual and intended to deceive the injunction restraining the delegates and the Athletics Defendants from taking Rafael Nadal (left) in epic battle with Novak Djokovic in the semi final of the French Open 2021...today family. any or further actions/steps “It is in recognition and that undermine the powers acceptance of the amended of the plaintiff under the Constitution that the world Constitution of the AFN Nadal, Djokovic in Epic Battle for French body reflected and still has as the President, including Mr Siminialayi Young Pepple the powers to convene the as the Director General of the Congress of the AFN. Open Final Ticket AFN, with Engr. Gusau as After the reconciliatory Novak Djokovic and Rafael edge over Djokovic on clay There is plenty at stake on In the quarterfinals, he President,” the AFN statement meeting held in Abuja, Nadal clash for the 58th time with a 19-7 career lead and Friday as the two rivals close dropped the third set against announced. the Minister of Youth today on the same court where 7-1 in Paris. in on Sunday’s final. Matteo Berrettini. Gusau termed the purported and Sports, Sunday Dare they first met 15 years ago Djokovic hasn’t beaten Nadal Djokovic can win a 19th With the exception of Congress slated for Abuja as thanked the CAA for their with a place in the French on the surface since Rome in Slam and become the first a second-set blip in the a meeting of friends because prompt response to the Open final at stake. 2016. man since Rod Laver in 1969 quarterfinals against Diego according to Article 6.1.2 of resolutions of the AFN crisis It is tennis’s greatest modern He can, however, boast being to win all four Slams twice. Schwartzman, Nadal has the 2017 AFN Constitution, in a letter dated April 30, rivalry between two men who one of only two men to have Victory for Nadal would reached his 14th semifinal only the President of the AFN 2021. have harvested 38 Grand Slam defeated Nadal in Paris, in the give him a record-setting 21st relatively unscathed. titles between them and 72 quarterfinals in 2015. major, breaking the tie with Despite his clay court Masters. “It’s a well-anticipated Roger Federer. stranglehold on Djokovic, Over 200 Kids for U-17 Djokovic has spent more semifinal and here we are,” “The vibes are different Nadal isn’t getting too far weeks at world No 1 than said Djokovic of a rivalry walking on the court with ahead of himself. any other player while 13-time which started on Court him,” added Djokovic. “But “It is a semifinal, not a final. Kenny Taekwondo French Open winner Nadal Philippe Chatrier in 2006. that’s why our rivalry has been That’s a big difference,” he Over 200 enthusiastic kids present state in Nigera. has not been out of the top “We had some battles over historic.” said. drawn from over 20 schools Salawu added that he 10 in 16 years. the years on this court.” It’s been a topsy-turvy The latest chapter of and 17 clubs across the state will not rest until more Nadal will start Friday’s Nadal defeated 2016 tournament for Djokovic. Djokovic v Nadal has stormed the Indoor Sports of the likes of Emmanuel semifinal as favourite, buoyed champion Djokovic in After racing through the overshadowed Friday’s other Hall of the National Stadium Peters, Chika Chukwumerijes by his record of 105 wins and straight sets in last year’s first three rounds, he had to semifinal between Greek fifth in Surrulere, Lagos for the and Margaret Binga are just two losses in his Roland final, the Serb’s third loss in come back from two sets down seed Stefanos Tsitsipas and Kenny Taekwondo Academy discovered in Nigeria’s Garros career. the championship match in to defeat Italian 19-year-old sixth-seeded Alexander Zverev U-17 Championships which taekwondo. The 35-year-old also has the Paris to the Spaniard. Lorenzo Musetti. of Germany. held last weekend. Medals and certificates D’ Young Taekwondo were awarded to all the Academy, Kenny Martial children that excelled at Art Academy, Panama the championship. . Super Eagles Supporters Club Set for Inauguration Taekwondo Academy, St Chairman of Lagos State Rita School, Ovie Brune Taekwondo Association, Foundation and Goodness Mr Jimmy Ogunowo who of Grand Patron in Minna School were among some of was at the event alongside Laleye Dipo in Minna based philanthropist, Alhaji members has also begun philanthropists to partner us the schools and clubs that the matron, Tayo Popoola, Yakubu Abubakar as its e-membership drive in the to enable our club achieve featured at the one- day commended Mr Salawu Niger State chapter of the patrons. 25 local government areas this loudable object,” stressed championship. for spreading the gospel of Super Eagles Supporters Chairman of the Supporters of the state. the state’s supporters boss. Proprietor of Kenny taekwondo at the grassroots Club has appointed the Club, Alhaji Mohammed The Chairman who Mohammed insisted that Taekwondo Academy, Mr. and promised that his state’s Governor, Alhaji Mohammed, who disclosed doubles as the Northern there was no faction within Kehinde Salawu, thanked association will continue Abubakar Sani Bello, as this to sportswriters in Coordinator of the Super the Supporters Club in Niger God for the successful to provide logistics and it’s Grand Patron. Minna yesterday said the Eagles Supporters Club State. stagging of this year’s event technical support when The Supporters Club also inauguration and award said all the activities of He however pleaded with which is the 10th edition. necessary to all it’s affiliate Salawu described it as a members. appointed Dr Mohammed presentation to the patrons the organisation are geared Dr Rafiu Ladipo whom he huge success unlike the 9th He urged all clubs Mohammed former and footballers that have towards the World Cup described as the ‘Father of edition which was almost practicing in the Chairman of the Niger distinguished themselves elimination series and next Supporters Club in Nigeria’ marred by the Coronavirus state to forward their Tornadoes Football Club and made Niger State proud year’s Africa Cup of Nations to assist in reconciling all pandemic. programme of activities of Minna Management has been slated for the 5th of football competitions, adding the football supporters clubs He owed the consistency to the Secretariat of the Committee, Speaker of Octoberthis year in Minna. that “we want to attend these in the country so that “we in stagging the annual event Lagos State Taekwondo the Niger State House of Mohammed said the competitions to cheer the will all come under one to God and his desire to see Association without further Assembly Alhaji Abdullahi Supporters Club with Super Eagles to victory”. umbrella for effectiveness taekwondo grow beyond it’s delay. Bawa Wuse and a Minna- a population of 250 “We therefore want more coordination. FRIDAY JUNE 11, 2021 ˾THISDAY 47 FridaySports EURO 2020...EURO 2020...EURO 2020... UEFA Demands Ukraine Make Changes to ‘Political’ Jersey UEFA has demanded that was “clearly political in Resolution “recognises “on its own (it) may be Kremlin-backed leader between the two countries. Ukraine make changes to nature”. the territorial borders as considered as a generic during the Maidan Russia annexed Crimea their jersey for Euro 2020 On Tuesday, Russia had broadly depicted by the and non-political phrase demonstrations seven and supported Russian- starting today by removing sent a letter of complaint design”. of general national years ago. speaking insurgents in a “political” slogan that to UEFA over the yellow The slogan “Glory significance”. The revolt was Ukraine’s east. The conflict sparked protests from jersey which also features to Ukraine” was also That chant was used by condemned by Moscow has claimed the lives of Russia on the front the outline of approved by UEFA as protesters who ousted a and sparked a crisis in ties more than 13, 000 people. European football’s Ukraine including Crimea, governing body UEFA which was annexed by said the message “Glory to Russia in 2014. our Heroes”, a rallying cry But UEFA said the map during the 2014 anti-Russia would not need to be protests in Ukraine that is changed because a United featured inside the shirt, Nations General Assembly Euro 2020 Tournament Kicks off Live on DStv, GOtv DStv and GOtv subscribers of attention in Group B, can look forward to major but there are concerns for international football as the Red Devils as Kevin De UEFA Euro 2020 kicks Bruyne is suffering a facial off today. The European injury and Eden Hazard continental tournament has hardly played for Real will run from 11 June to Madrid this past season. 11 July 2021. Belgium is scheduled to The Euro tournaments face Russia on Saturday begins with the group 12 June at 8pm. stage matches, which will Denmark is a capable if Referees to officiate the Euro 2020 tournament at training ahead of tonight’s opening ceremony...yesterday all air on the SuperSport somewhat limited team, dedicated Euro 2020 while Finland are the channel, SuperSport fairytale story of the group. EURO2020 (DStv channel Their match is scheduled PSG Target Barca’s Dembele 203 and GOtv channel 32). earlier on Saturday at 5pm. Paris Saint-Germain have Barcelona, who want to The group A fixtures sees The Netherlands are expressed an interest in know Dembele’s decision the clash between Turkey the ‘big dogs’ of Group signing Barcelona winger as soon as possible so they and Italy today, 11 June C, and they will be facing Ousmane Dembele, who can try and sell him before at 8pm. Ukraine on Sunday 13 has entered the final year his value really starts to Italy will be the team June at 8pm. Earlier in the of his contract. fall. to watch in Group A and evening, Austria will meet Talks over a new deal It’s also not going to do Turkey will be their main with North Macedonia at for Dembele have dragged much to help the frosty threat, with the Eurasian 5pm. This will be North on for months but are relationship between team’s brilliant veteran, Macedonia’s first major expected to step up in a the two clubs, which Burak Yilmaz, who recently international tournament. meeting next week, which stems from Neymar’s fired Lille to a surprise Austria and Ukraine are was scheduled after the world record move from Ligue 1 triumph. set to battle for the group’s Frenchman confessed he Barcelona to PSG in 2017 Wales and Switzerland runner-up spot. is not in any rush to extend. and was not helped by the are not to be Group D features the Barcelona have made Ousmane Dembele is on the radar of PSG French side’s late swoop to underestimated either, tournament’s favourite, it clear that they want sign Georginio Wijnaldum Dembele to sign a new deal, his deal. want to try and encourage on a free transfer this as they are scheduled England, who will face However, according to Dembele to reject a new summer. to meet on Saturday 12 Croatia on Sunday 13 but they are also prepared to sell him this summer Marca, there are now some contract and also refuse a Barcelona thought they June at 2pm. The Dragons June at 2pm. England will if he continues to stall as fears that may happen as move away this summer, had tied up a deal for famously got to the semi- play all of their matches club officials don’t want PSG have reached out to allowing him to walk away Wijnaldum, only for PSG finals of the last European at Wembley Stadium to lose a player who cost the winger to express an for free and return to his to offer him nearly double Championship, while the in London and look to almost £140m four years interest in signing him on homeland in 2022. the wages on offer at Camp Swiss are an efficient and take full advantage of a ago for free at the end of a free transfer next summer. That plan is obviously Nou to lure him over to experienced outfit that will squad which includes the It seems as though PSG not going to sit well with France instead. win no style points but likes of Harry Kane, Phil will be extremely tough Foden, Jadon Sancho and to beat. Marcus Rashford. World Opuama Blames Jigawa’s Defence for Draw with Wikki Belgium and their Cup runner-up, Croatia, ‘Golden Generation’ of will represent the Three Abdul Raheem going through a difficult lived up to expectation as Manu Garba volleyed home players will be the centre Lions’ biggest threat. time. “It was not the result the two sides made efforts a pass from the right wing Jigawa Golden Stars’ we expected but we accept it from the kick-off to pick beating Paul Godwin in inconsistent home form in good faith. We conceded all the points. While the Jigawa goal. continued on Wednesday the equalising goal due to Badaru Boys were trying For Wikki Tourists Coach, CAS Reduces Ajax as they were held to a loss of concentration. We to control the midfield, the Baba Jibrin, it was a good score draw by visiting are facing a difficult time Yankari Boys resorted to result which made him Keeper Onana’s Ban Wikki Tourists in a and we have a few worries long range shots, two of happy, saying he is going Ajax Amsterdam goalkeeper long ban for the player from Nigeria Professional in the midfield”, he told which were on target. back to Bauchi to prepare Andre Onana’s year-long all football activities. FootballbLeagye (NPFL) www.npfl.ng Though Wikki brought for their next home match ban by European soccer’s A panel of CAS arbitrators Match-day 26 tie at the “The defence is costing in Idris Guda and Sale against FC IfeanyiUbah. governing body UEFA for in charge of the matter Ahmadu Bello Stadium in me lots of goals. This is not Mohammed few minutes “I’m happy that we violating doping rules has partially upheld the player’s Kaduna.It certainly was a the type of goal we should into the second half, it was picked up a point here. been reduced to nine months appeal and reduced his result that Coach Gilbert be conceding. When you Jigawa Stars that made hay. We would go back home, after an appeal, the Court of ban that commenced on 4 Opuana never wished for are playing to win and you First, Mohammed Gidado’s work hard to prepare for Arbitration for Sport (CAS) February, meaning he will especially against a Wikki have scored the next thing shot was smothered by IfeanyiUbah. said in a statement yesterday. now be eligible to play from side that have struggled to do is to defend the goal Wikki’ keeper, Ibrahim “This is my fourth match Traces of the banned 3 November. lately. but our defence failed to Pius, then Abdullahi Lala here but I’m very sure we substance Furosemide were Onana had said the Opuama though laid do that. We will continue made a pullout which Saidu will end the season in a found in the Cameroon violation was the result of the blames on the team’s to work on the team ahead Abdullahi nodded home. better position. We lacked international’s urine during a mistake, as he accidentally defense as well as what he of our next match against The lead didn’t last long the scoring ability because an out-of-competition test took a medicine meant for called bad moments. Pillars.” as 12 minutes later, the we create lots of chances on 30 October, Ajax said in his girlfriend on the morning Speaking after the match, The Northern derby, as Yankari Boys equalised but we have failed to score February, leading to a year- of 30 October. Opuana said the team is the two teams share borders, when striker and captain, many of them.”

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COVID-19 Tests & Vaccinations “Unduly restricting the ability of Nigerians to report, gather, and TEXT‘COVID’ TO58123 disseminate opinions and information has no place in a democracy. 26years Freedom of expression and access to information both online and offl ine are foundational to prosperous and secure democratic societies” This service is provided in association with accredited service providers – US condemning the federal government for suspending Twitt er. AKINOSUNTOKUN DIALOGUE WITH NIGERIA [email protected] The Return to Igangan have been asked to speak to Seriki Fulani were torched and burnt down. for war as hobby. Short of the philosophy you all on the topic Nigerian He was declared persona non grata and of turning the other cheek it is diffi cult to Unity and Nation Building. banished from the community along with see what options are left for the oppressed Under normal circumstances his proteges and sundry fi eld operatives. confronted with the perennial menace of a that would have been considered There was bound to be a reprisal attack murderous bully. In all of this, there is the “Ian easy task to undertake. However, given and the surprise was that when it came, psychological injury to the victims. They that the circumstances in our times can no it caught both the Igboho guerilla army are liable to wonder if it is conceivable that longer be considered normal in the light of the and the regular security forces pants down. a group of Yoruba marauders would have level of violence, criminality and divisiveness More shocking was the disproportionate the audacity to besiege Azare or Daura the which is now our daily experience, the scale of the violence, in magnitude and way the criminal Fulani militia are running undertaking becomes a challenge and a sheer savagery, reminiscent of the Fulani rampant over . dilemma. There was a time that some of militia campaign of terror and pacifi cation In what is fast degenerating to an unbroken our leaders especially in the military era in the Middle Belt region. Obadiah Mailafi a chain of violence and terror, it is near would glibly tell us that Nigerian unity is sounded the early warning system. inevitable that in one form or another, a non-negotiable. Most people in the present About a week ago, the Oyo State Amotekun Yoruba response to this reprisal attack on situation we fi nd ourselves will consider Commander, Kunle Togun, similarly raised Igangan is on the way especially if, typically, such an affi rmation not only hollow but the alarm (that the worst is yet to come) no one is called to account. The continuous clearly now as uninformed and ignorant. that was more remarkable for its potential radicalisation and escalation of the cycle This situation would not have arisen fi ve, ten to obfuscate and misdirect. There was an of violence raises the question of how all or twenty years ago. So what went wrong inherent exculpation of domestic Nigerian this harvest of ill-wind will end. President and why?”- Professor Anya. O. Anya component in his obsessive attribution of Buhari has announced his preferred option Whatever becomes of the spiralling inter- all that is going awry in the South-west to in a revealing tweet and it is straight out ethnic (mutually assured destruction) cycle Igboho non-Nigerians. “The foreign Fulani herdsmen from the civil war conquistador playbook. of violence in Nigeria, Igangan, Ibarapa in response captured the imagination of the have invaded South-west. There is nowhere “Many of those misbehaving today are Oyo State, will be remembered as a turning Yoruba community and ignited a spirit of in the South-west that they are not. They too young to be aware of the destruction point. Symbolically, Igangan has always been militant nationalism. In the circumstance, are there. “They are the Okada riders. They and loss of lives that occurred during the associated with critical phases of Yoruba the Igboho embodied rebellion was a direct are the ones using wheelbarrows to sell Nigerian Civil War. Those of us in the fi elds history. Those familiar with this history will consequence of this connivance (running carrots and other things. I said they are for 30 months, who went through the war, recall that at the institution of the Aare Ona the gamut of wilful neglect and covert foot soldiers. They said they have come will treat them in Kakanfo in the sixteenth century, the fi rst complicity) of a compromised Nigerian in to take the inheritance given to them by the language they understand,”. First, the title holder of the unique institution was security establishment.The Alaafi n of Oyo Allah and that is Nigerian land, particularly fact that the social media tech giant, Twitter, Kokoro Igangan. The warlord was said recently lamented the futility of seeking the South-west. So, they will still strike. I am deems it fi t to delete this tweet and cite it as to hail from Iwoye but my gut feeling is law and order intervention of the Nigerian not just screaming aloud. So, everybody ‘abusive behaviour’ towards the Igbo, tells that the coincidence of his name with the police into crimes involving the fulani who has to be ready”. The question then arises, a familiar story of Buhari. It corroborates ancient town of Igangan was not accidental. appeared to enjoy a licence to impunity is the Seriki Fulani of Igangan a foreigner? his well documented penchant for violent The appointment was reserved for the best and would sooner be spared of any penalty Are his accomplices including the notorious verbiage. You will recall such bloody minded acclaimed warlord of the day and could regardless the severity of the crime at issue. Wakili from Mali and Niger? To the contrary, threats as the ‘dog and the baboon will be appointed from any part of the empire. It was a fraught situation that brought to the many of those caught have identifi ed and soak in blood’. ‘I can die for the cause of ‘It is a title akin to a fi eld marshal, and fore the legitimate imperative of recourse have been identifi ed as Fulani with deep Islam if necessary. We are ready to fi ght is conferred upon the greatest soldier and to self-help and self-defence. roots in Nigeria including, for that matter, another civil war’. For those at the pinnacle tactician of the day. After installation, the General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma had the Yoruba society (especially Ilorin) dating of the federal alliance power structure that Kakanfo leaves Oyo, the Alaafi n’s city for his captured the moment a few years ago: “The back generations. prevailed in the war, resort to this ‘might own domain; it is forbidden that the Kakanfo armed forces are not neutral. They collude Adding to the confusion is the enactment is right’ precedent is always a irresistible and the Alaafi n live together in the same with the armed bandits that kill people, kill (of the precedent of Moses and the Israelites) temptation. The perennial utility of the threat town. In addition, the Kakanfo is required to Nigerians. They facilitate their movement. who were given to renouncing their liberation to ‘national unity’ has come in handy as wage war against any peoples and territories They cover them...If you are depending on at the encounter of any diffi culties in their a blank cheque on which any pretext for at the behest of the Alaafi n, and is expected the armed forces to stop the killings, you journey to freedom. And so, with the savage scapegoating a convenient victim and target to win, or return a corpse’. Like so many will die one by one,” he said. reprisal attack on Igangan has come the can be requested. Those who like Buhari are cultural innovations, the institution was a “The ethnic cleansing must stop in Taraba criticism and strictures blaming Igboho given to hacking back to the civil war and testimony to the sophistication of the Oyo State. It must stop in all the , for initiating the rebellion to begin with. national unity in this proprietorial manner Empire. And, ironically, when the empire otherwise Somalia will be a child’s play. In the affectation of wisdom and sobriety should be asked what are the lessons Nigeria was going to unravel, the Kakanfo (in the I ask everyone of you to be at alert and and beyond the specifi c instance of Igangan, should learn from this defi ning tragedy. person of Afonja) proved to be its nemesis. defend your country, defend your territory, there have been remonstrations from those That any evil is justifi ed in the self-serving In a manner of speaking and given the defend your state. You have nowhere else who identify with the status quo that pursuit of the distorted notion of national rapid political retrogression of Nigeria back to go,” he further added. coming to terms with cohabitation in hell unity as an end unto itself? Shouldn’t we be into its precolonial ethno national elements, Taking the cue in Igangan, the compound can be a better option than the uncertain told that prior to the declaration of Biafra the Yoruba appears to be reliving this history and properties (including several luxury promise of heaven. As if anyone has secession, another group of Nigerians were especially in the aspect of securing the realm vehicles) of the suspected godfather of the cultivated belligerence and bellicosity as openly contemplating Araba and the other against external aggression. It is what has Fulani kidnap-for-ransom-consortium, the second nature and goes around looking verbalised the intention to follow suit if given rise to warlordism encapsulated in Biafra becomes a reality? I have always held the Sunday Igboho phenomenon. And we the opinion that (on the template of equity now talk more of charms than bullets as and justice) if the Igbo should be blamed, an instrument of prosecuting local wars. If Nigeria is ever to transcend this it can only be for not being in a position to In the contemporary experience of the savage actualise its justifi ed aspiration. At the end humiliation to which the Yoruba have been balance of terror predicate, it would of the day what made the difference was subjected right in their regional homestead, not the moral imperative of sustaining a there is not much that is exceptional about desirable and worthy national unity but that Igangan. What is exceptional was the long have to learn that the road to enduring a protagonist was in a position to enforce imagined retributory response mounted by its will and the other was not. If Nigeria a counter Yoruba militia spearheaded by national unity does not go through the is ever to transcend this balance of terror Igboho. Hitherto pummelled and stupefi ed predicate, it would have to learn that the into inaction and self-pity and endlessly barrel of the gun and the imposition of road to enduring national unity does not betrayed by a conniving (by omission or go through the barrel of the gun and the commission) Nigerian security forces, the unrestrained regional hegemony imposition of unrestrained regional hegemony. 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. 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