NESO: Generates Only 15.6% of National Electricity Requirement is a net exporter of power. years, only a paltry average of homes, sometimes, due to As NERC updates list of meter providers A trend analysis of data 4,500MW was actually generated dilapidated infrastructure. generate about 15.6 per cent responsible for operating the released by the system operator every day. The data released by NESO Emmanuel Addeh in of the total projected national transmission system in a safe and compiled by THISDAY, To make matters worse, showed that the country needs daily requirement of 28.880 and reliable manner. indicated that despite the various the Transmission Company approximately 28.880MW, but The Nigeria Electricity System megawatts. The TCN network spreads financial interventions by the of Nigeria (TCN), which is is barely able to push 5,000MW Operator (NESO) has revealed NESO, a semi-autonomous to all parts of the country and federal government, mostly fully owned by the federal for use by homes and business that at its peak, Nigeria’s arm under the Transmission across the border to several through the Central Bank of government, is able to wheel concerns in the country. power sector was only able to Company of Nigeria (TCN) is neighbouring countries. Nigeria Nigeria (CBN) in the last seven the entire generation to Nigerian Continued on page 40

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TODAY'S WEATHER ABUJA MAIDUGURI ENUGU KANO PORT HARCOURT 25°C-33°C 31°C-31°C 25°C-28°C 27°C-33°C 24C-27°C 20°C-30°C PDP Caucus: NCC Misled House on e-Transfer of Results Udora Orizu in Abuja Commission (NCC) for alleged the officials lied under oath while Electoral Act 2010 (Amendment) the lawmakers on Friday. appeared before the lawmakers. perjury and deliberately misleading appearing before the House on Bill over the controversial Clause While INEC did not show Maska, however, answered The Peoples Democratic Party the House over the possibility of Friday to explain the possibility 52(2), Speaker of the House, Femi up, officials of the NCC led by all the questions asked by the (PDP) Caucus in the House electronic transmission of election of having results of elections Gbajabiamila, had called for the the Executive Commissioner lawmakers. of Representatives has called results. transmitted electronically from suspension of the exercise and (Stakeholder Management), In the statement titled ‘NCC for criminal investigation and Leader of the PDP Caucus, Hon. across Nigeria. summoned the NCC and the Adeleke Adewolu; Executive Lied to Nigerians on Electronic prosecution of officials of the Kingley Chinda, in a statement Following a stalemated Independent National Electoral Commissioner (Technical Services), Transmission of Votes and Should issued on Tuesday, alleged that consideration of the report on the Commission to appear and guide Ubale Maska, and two others Nigerian Communications Continued on page 40 Buhari: News of Downed Fighter Jet Devastating, But Relieved Pilot Survived Hails Dairo’s gallantry Bandits wanted me alive, says officer Deji Elumoye and Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja President yesterday said he was initially devastated by the news of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Alpha Jet, which was downed over the weekend by terrorist bandits in , but that the survival of the pilot, Flight Lieutenant Abayomi Dairo, who successfully ejected from the aircraft after it came under “intense ground fire” later Continued on page 40 Abdulsalami Urges Bandits, Kidnappers to Renounce Criminality... Page 5 YUSUPH BUHARI IS TALBAN DAURA DESIGNATE... L-R: Sabi'u Tunde, Special Assistant, Office of the President, Yusuf Buhari (Talban Daura designate) and President Muhammadu Buhari, shortly after the Eid Prayers in Daura …yesterday 2 WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY 3 4 WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY,  ͺ͹˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY 5

Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike NEWS Email [email protected], 08066066268 PRAYING AT EID-EL- KABIR... L-R: Alhaji Ibrahim Osho Adigun; Chief Razaq Akanni Okoya; Alhaji Tajudeen Okoya and Dr. Akanni Bashorun, during the 2021 Eid-el- kabir prayer held at Oluwanishola Estate, Victorial Island, Lagos...yesterday MUBO PETERS.

Abdulsalami Urges Bandits, Kidnappers to Renounce Criminality Laleye Dipo in Minna Abdulsalami, after spoke to journalists after the agencies so that they would back to the nation. and security agencies to achieve congratulating Muslims on prayers, harped on the need restore normalcy to troubled A former governor of the state, maximum result. A former military Head of the celebration, charged them for peace and unity among all areas of the country. Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, Aliyu implored leaders at all State, General Abdulsalami to continue to remain peaceful Nigerians. Bello noted that most parts while exchanging views with levels to come up with deliberate Abubakar (rtd) has urged bandits, and orderly as well as assist He called on Nigerians to of Nigeria were bedevilled by journalists after the prayers, also policies targeted at reducing the kidnappers and other criminals one another. pray fervently for peace and insecurity, but was optimistic advised Nigerians to support current hardship facing many terrorising the country to renounce Governor Bello, who also especially for the security that God would bring peace and collaborate with government Nigerians. all forms of criminality. The former military leader and the Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello yesterday Analysts Explain Eight Years of Zero paid the traditional Sallah homage to another former military President, General Ibrahim Commercial Airlines’ Accident in Nigeria Badamasi Babangida (rtd) at NCAA, which implements those (SMS) has also contributed (NAMA), which established the his Hilltop residence in Minna, in improving safety in airline Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria Niger State. Hail regulator, operators recommendations. So, possible well as efficient activities of the accidents are averted with operation in Nigeria. (TRACON), the improvement of The duo drove directly from the Chinedu Eze Mbanuzuo noted that the communication in the airspace and Eid- prayer ground to the former Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority the implementation of AIB-N recommendations. training of engineers and the Instrument Landing System (ILS). military president’s residence after Aviation experts have identified (NCAA) and that of AIB-N. “This is why it is important introduction of Flight Crew “Operators have imbibed factors responsible for the longest He explained that NCAA had observing the two rakkat prayer. that the two agencies are working Resource Management, which safety culture. There is improved period in the history of air oversight function of regulating Journalists were however not together. And that is why we empowered personnel to voice out oversight function by NCAA, transport in Nigeria without the operations of airlines, while allowed access into Babangida’s have independent AIB-N so their fears and recommendations, which ensures that airlines any record of accident involving AIB-N investigated serious residence during the visit. that it would be free to carry out have helped to improve safety strictly follow the rules and this commercial airliners. incidents and made safety Babangida was not at the Eid investigations and come up with in the airspace. has improved tremendously and They, however, hailed the recommendations to the regulatory prayer ground for the Eid-el-Kabir safety recommendations. “The issues that have led airlines now acquire modern federal government and operators authority thatimplemented those two rakkat prayer, which could “Also, airlines have come to to improved safety in Nigeria aircraft, which have improved in the industry over efforts to recommendations and why have necessitated the visit. But realise the huge cost of having air transport are complex. But systems and there is also ensure that the positive record Nigeria’s civil aviation industry no reason was adduced to his an accident so they have also I think education and training improvement in infrastructure was sustained. had enjoyed the longest period absence at the prayer. imbibed the safety culture and have contributed to that. There with the establishment of The last accident recorded of zero accident so far. The visit by the duo lasted ensure that they operate safety is better training and regulation TRACON, Voice Ominidirectional by any commercial airline in Olateru also noted that accidents and also abide by the standard and operators have become more Radio Range (VOR), which has barely one hour after which both the country was the Associated don’t just happen, saying they set by the regulatory authority, conscious of air safety with the improved communication in the leaders retired to their homes for Aviation Flight 361, a domestic build up over time, “but because which oversights their activities,” introduction of SMS. airspace and the installation of a continuation of the celebration. charter flight from the Murtala AIB-N carries out investigations Olateru said. “There is also improved training Instrument Landing System (ILS). Abdulsalami, while speaking Muhammed International Airport, and makes recommendation to In his opinion, the Accountable of engineers and the introduction “Also, the establishment of to journalists after the prayer Lagos, whichoccurred on October NCAA, which implements those Manager and Chief Operating of Crew Resource Management, Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul appealed to "miscreants" in the 3, 2013, in which 16 persons on recommendations, the possibility Officer of Dana Air, Obi which had led to the training of (MRO) by Aero Contractors has country to have a rethink and board died, while four persons of an accident is nipped in the Mbanuzuo, told THISDAY people on how to speak up and helped because technical issues repent for peace and stability to survived. bud.” that education, better training take action. developed by aircraft like snags reign in Nigeria. Commenting on factors He, however, added: “When and efficient regulation have “Overall, training has been are taken care of in that facility He also prayed to Allah to responsible for the eight years it comes to safety matters you contributed in improving air safety much better. We actually operate instead of leaving it until the touch the hearts of criminal zero-accident record, the credit it to NCAA and AIB-N. in Nigeria, noting that operators in a more hostile environment, time the aircraft will go for major elements so that they would Commissioner/CEO of Accident NCAA has oversight responsibility have become more conscious but training and management of checks. So, when there is technical Investigation Bureau Nigeria and AIB-N investigates serious denounce banditry, kidnapping about safety and the introduction the airlines have been top notch. problem they take it to Aero and cattle rustling and all forms of (AIB-N), Akin Olateru, attributed incidents and accidents and makes recommendation to of Safety Management System So, people speak out about issues get it repaired. criminalities. it to improvement in air safety as before they explode and in that “Then, we have to acknowledge way, problems are averted.” that the Boeing 737 Classic is a To the Senior Executive of the more reliable aircraft and the Electoral Act:: Group Writes US, Demands Visa Ban on 80 Senators upcoming airline, NG Eagle, main operational aircraft among contempt for the Nigerian and creates a massive refugee The group therefore Captain Ado Sanusi, operators Nigerian airlines. They have Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja People. crisis in the world. commended a few progressive have imbibed safety culture and contributed in the improvement It therefore called on "In the meantime, we have opposition legislators in the regarded it as top priority. He also of safety,because they are more A group, Democracy Vanguard President Muhammadu attached names of all those Senate and the House of hailed the NCAA which ensured reliable aircraft,” Sanusi said. of Nigeria in Diaspora (DVND) Buhari to withhold assent legislators who played one role Representatives led by Senator that airlines strictly follow laid out A senior official in the has written a letter to the United on any Electoral Act bill that or the other in the suppression Ehinanya Abaribe and Ndidi regulation in its safety oversight, Aerodrome Engineering States of America through its failed to incorporate electronic and undermining democracy Elumelu respectively who stood adding that such regulation has Department in NCAA told Nigerian Ambassador Mary voting, order of elections to in Nigeria for a visa ban. Their for Nigeria when the occasion improved tremendously. THISDAY that there is increased Beth Leonard, demanding a start with Governorship and family members shall not be demanded. Further, he identified the oversight by the agency. visa ban on all the senators State Assemblies and then spared of the impending visa It noted that those who passage of new regulation by The spokesman of NCAA, who voted against the electronic Presidential and National ban as well. exempted themselves from the the National Assembly, which Sam Adurogboye, attributed transmission of election results Assemblies. "This noble intention was chambers without a valid reason has aided the improvement of the success recorded in the past in Nigeria. It stated: "We call on the United vehemently and vigorously are equally reprimanded and oversight function of NCAA, eight years to strict enforcement of The group in a statement States, the United Kingdom, the challenged by some legislators condemned, adding that while the predilection of airlines to compliance to safety regulations, issued Tuesday by its President, European Union, Canada, African from a particular zone and those who were conspicuously acquire more modern aircraft operators’ adherence to rules of Timothy Sule, described the Union and all ally countries to political party. These unpatriotic absent are no better than those and the improvement of the game, training and retraining action as shameful, disdainful, take urgent actions to nip this elements eventually succeeded who shot the amendment down airport infrastructure, especially, of personnel on both sides and and completely reprehensible, brewing conflagration in the bud in throwing out such a noble with their selfish and insensitive navigational aids by the Nigerian increased surveillance and saying it smacks of a clear before it consumes the nation intention into the abyss." agenda. Airspace Management Agency inspections. 6 WEDNESDAY,  ͺ͹˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY NEWS ABIODUN HOSTS IMAMS... L-R: Wakeel Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and , representing the Chief Imam of Egbaland, Sheik Iskil Lawal; Chief Imam of Ijebuland, Sheik Mufutau Ayanbadejo; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Shuaib Salis; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Chief Imam of Yewaland and President, League of Imams & Alfas, Sikirulai Babalola and the Chief Imam of Remoland, Imam Abdulkadir Junaid shortly after lunch to mark Eid-el-Kabir at the Governor's country home, Iperu, Ogun State... yesterday Buhari: NYSC Has Created More Opportunities to Unite Nigerians Charges security agencies to step up efforts to secure country while playing host scheme was well thought-out The President, in the mood time in office, and God's this to journalists at his Daura Deji Elumoye in Abuja to youth corpers, and expressed to unite the country through of the festive season, gave the providence in decision making residence after the Eid-el- his deep attachment to the NYSC understanding. corps members two cows from that would move the country Kabir prayers, stated that the President Muhammadu Buhari scheme and impact so far, saying “I feel very strongly about the his farm, 20 bags of rice and forward. Presidential Economic Advisory has said the National Youth it broadens the horizon of citizens, NYSC and I am wishing you one million naira. On security, the president Council had notified him that Service Corps (NYSC) has created opens up opportunities and all the very best. I assure you Earlier, the Corps Liason in yet another release by only a small percentage of the more opportunities to unite enhances understanding of that you will be much better as Officer, Umaru Babayo, thanked Shehu, mandated security land in the country had been Nigerians since its establishment cultural differences. Nigerians after your experience,” the President for all the efforts outfits to be more relentless used for farming, directing in 1973 than any other initiative. The president said he had he added. and sacrifices to restore peace in maintaining peace in the security outfits to work more This is as the president, on consistently commended former President Buhari urged the in the country, and the policies country, and ensuring a better with communities to create a Tuesday, called on the nation's Head of State, General Yakubu youth corps members to make to diversify the economy, with and harmonious relationship more friendly environment for security agencies to step up their Gowon for the initiative, which the most out of the opportunity agriculture as the main driver. with communities so that they farmers. efforts to adequately secure the had created more opportunities of travelling around the country, He said the Emir of Daura, could glean intelligence. At the prayer ground, earlier, country, surprised that only 2.5 for uniting the country. especially, in understanding Alhaji Faruk Umar Faruk, had According to him, the the Emir of Daura, Faruk Umar per cent of the arable lands in His words: "Every time I meet different climates, cultures, shown a lot of kindness and security situation had improved Faruk, called on citizens to be Nigeria was being cultivated at with former Head of State, Gen. languages and views on life. warmth to corps members as considerably over time in the more supportive of the President the moment. Yakubu Gowon, like recently, "Some of you have come from well in his domain, appreciating North East and South-south, so that he could actualise his Buhari, in a release by his I still commend him for the Port Harcourt, Lagos and Calabar the community for always and efforts were being made in vision of improving security and spokesman, Garba Shehu, spoke initiative of the NYSC. The NYSC and you can now feel the heat supporting them. North Central and North West, boosting the economy. in his country home, Daura, is spectacular in many ways." of Daura and how close it is to Babayo assured the president assuring them that more would He said: “Since the President The President said the NYSC the desert". of their prayers for a successful be done to fish out those that came into power, we have seen had been troubling the peace some positive changes in the of the nation and citizens. country. May God continue to President Buhari also urged strengthen the President with Presidency: PDP Not in Position to Win 2023 Elections more Nigerians to embrace good health and courage to Deji Elumoye in Abuja State, that Nigerians know too ’’The President enjoys President matters a lot for the farming, saying he was surprised bring peace to the country. God well than to allow another party unshakable support not only ruling party and Nigerians in to hear that only 2.5 per cent will not allow Nigeria to see in his hometown but also across general. Again he constitutes a The Presidency Tuesday ruled take over in 2023. of arable lands in the country shame. God has been keeping According to him: "We believe the country and it is enough for political obstacle they cannot was being cultivated. the country and he will keep out the possibility of the the opposition to admit that the dismantle come 2023." opposition Peoples Democratic the PDP and other opposition The President, who mentioned the country.” parties are nursing false hopes Party (PDP) winning the 2023 of taking power comes 2023. presidential election in the The masses will never abandon country. President Buhari’s leadership and It has, therefore, urged the COAS Praises Borno Gov for Motivating Troops the APC. I assure you that in The Army Chief during a with the Chief of Air Staff, Air party to forget about the 2023, the masses will be waiting Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri our morale, including also all the forthcoming 2023 polls because homage to the governor for Marshal Oladayo Amao, said, support you have been providing for the President to show the the Eid-el-Kabir festival at the “From your (Zulum’s) visits the masses adores President way in courtesy of what he has The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), to our operations and activities. Muhammadu Buhari and will Lt. Gen. Farouk Yahaya, has Government House, Maiduguri, to troops on the ground many “We can only thank and been building for the country said his host was always paying times, even to several isolated not abandon him. in terms of infrastructure and commended efforts of the appreciate His Excellency, the The Senior Special Assistant Governor, Professor regular visits to the frontlines, and probably not too secure executive governor of Borno wellbeing of young people in interacting with troops and environments, you have always to President on Media and the country. Nobody will take Babagana Zulum in motivating State for all the support that he Publicity, Garba Shehu, told troops engaging terrorist groups boosting their morales. been there. Every time you have has been providing for us in the risk by inviting another party Yahaya, who was in company gone, it has gingered and boosted newsmen in Daura, Katsina to come and take over in 2023. in the Northeast. operation Hadin Kai and even before when it was operation Lafiya Dole and all along.” Responding, Zulum thanked the service chiefs and their troops 28 Boko Haram, ISWAP Members, Families Surrender in Borno for their sacrifices. He said he hadnoted continued improvement Operation Hadin Kai commander charges troops to dominate insurgents in the relationship between the sustained interdiction. in Lawanti and Gongolun ongoing clearance operations. insurgency. military and the civilian authorities, Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja It said the terrorists and their Communities of Jere Local and charged them to maintain He tasked them to be more while urging the military to remain families were taken in at the Government area of Borno State. the tempo and ensure that the resilient and steadfast in the in close collaboration with the state The Nigerian Army has said 28 outskirts of Aza and Bula Daloye During preliminary terrorists were smoked out of conduct of their operations, noting government in order to defeat fleeing members of Boko Haram villages in Bama Local Government investigations, the suspects their enclaves. that as border towns between and the Islamic State for West Area of Borno State by troops of confessed to have been working as Meanwhile, Musa, who Nigeria and Niger Republics, the decade long insurgency in African Province (ISWAP) as well the battalion on fighting patrol at informants for the terrorists, whom charged troops in the theatre the locations were strategic and the northeast. as their families had surrendered to Miyanti and Darajamel. they provide with information of operations to dominate their must therefore be dominated by Speaker of Borno State House troops of 151 Task Force Battalion "The arrested suspects on troops' movements, locations, areas of responsibility against the troops. of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, under 21 Special Brigade in Borno comprised of 11 adult male deployments, strength, calibre of terrorists gave the charge during He assured the troops of the who spoke on behalf of the State. terrorists, five adult females weapons and other activities. his visit to troops of Sector 3 in determination of the Chief of Army legislators, assured the military of The development comes as and 12 children. The troops also They also admitted to supplying an effort to appraise ongoing Staff to ensure all requisite logistics support and cooperative working the Theatre Commander (TC) recovered 27 rounds of 7.62 mm terrorists with basic logistics for operational activities as well as and support for a successful relationship with the governor, Joint Task Force North East (special) ammunition, three AK their daily survival, ranging from motivate troops of 68 Battalion conduct of the ongoing counter towards attainment of lofty goals. Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), 47 rifle magazines and a black Petroleum Oil and Lubricant and 5 Brigade deployed in the insurgency war were provided. Major General Christopher Musa, fragmental Jacket from the (POL), drugs, mosquito nets, frontlines at Mallan Fatori and The commander further advised However, on behalf of the state charged troops in the theatre of suspects," the statement stated, kolanuts, recharge cards and Damasak respectively. the troops to remain focused, executive council, Borno’s Attorney operations to dominate their adding that the suspected terrorists food stuff. The visit was in continuation of disciplined and conduct themselves General and Commissioner areas of responsibility against were undergoing preliminary The suspects disclosed that they his familiarisation and operational professionally. forJustice, Barrister Kaka-Shehu Boko Haram and Islamic State investigations. were remunerated by the terrorists tour of troops' deployment at the He also visited and Lawan, assured the people of West Africa Province terrorists In a separate operation on July with proceeds made from selling frontlines in the North-east theatre. commiserated with wounded-in- commitment to Zulum’s vision. (ISWAP) in order to ensure total 17, 2021, troops of 7 Division dismantled old motorcycle parts Musa, who was briefed on the action troops, who were receiving Secretary of Borno Elders return of normalcy and peace to Garrison in conjunction with to dealers in order to fund their operational engagements, logistics medical attention. Forum, Dr. Bulama Mali Gubio, the northeast. Civilian Joint Task Force, acting purchases. and challenges of the battalion by Musa was accompanied on the also assured the governor of the An army statement said the on credible intelligence tracked and According to the statement, the Commanding Officer, Lt Col. visit by Commander, Sector 3, terrorists, who were fleeing intense arrested Boko Haram informants the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Victor Ashinze, appreciated the Brigadier General Godwin Mutkut support from elders in Borno’s aerial and artillery bombardment and logistics suppliers, during Faruk Yahaya, commended the troops for their selfless sacrifices and other principal staff officers match towards full restoration surrendered to troops after a cordon and search operation proactiveness of the troops in the in the fight against terrorism and from the theatre headquarters. of peace. WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY 7 8 WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY 9 10 WEDNESDAY,  ͺ͹˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY NEWS

UGWUANYI CELEBRATES EID-EL- KABIR WITH MUSLIMS... Governor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (3rd left); Hon. Cornelius Nnaji (left); State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Augustine Nnamani (2nd left); Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Chijioke Edeoga (right); Chairman, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, Jacob Abonyi (2nd left); and Alhaji Sani Friday Nnaji, when the governor celebrated Eid-el-Kabir with the Muslim Community in the council area...yesterday. Oil Price Edges Up to $69pb after Slumping to Eight-week Low the fossil fuels industry, the court’s decision could upset its Shell to appeal carbon emission restriction ruling programme towards the 2050 date. monthly. its pre-pandemic levels, the new yesterday confirmed that it will faster than its current plans. "We agree urgent action is Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja Monday’s decline had also strain could hit demand for oil. appeal a Dutch court ruling The Anglo-Dutch company needed and we will accelerate followed the agreement reached by Goldman Sachs said the OPEC+ ordering the energy company also said it would seek to ramp our transition to net zero. Brent, Nigeria’s oil price benchmark the Organisation of the Petroleum deal to boost oil supply supports to accelerate its carbon emission up its energy transition strategy But we will appeal because steadied at $69.14 yesterday after a Exporting Countries and allies its view on oil prices and expects reduction target. in the wake of the ruling. a court judgment, against a coronavirus-driven fall on Monday (OPEC+) to increase oil production modest “upside” to its $80 per Shell had previously said it Shell Chief Executive, Ben single company is not effective. that saw prices tumble to an eight- by 400,000 barrels per day starting barrel summer Brent price forecast would appeal the May 26 ruling van Beurden said in a statement What is needed are clear, week low of $68.62 per barrel. from August 2021. and a $5 upside to its $75 per ordering it to reduce greenhouse yesterday that although the ambitious policies that will drive The commodity’s upward Although the OPEC+ deal was barrel forecast in 2022. gas emissions by 45 per cent by company had already put plans fundamental change across the trajectory was reversed with the expected to see prices rise again to Meanwhile, Royal Dutch Shell 2030 from 2019 levels, significantly in place to cut its exposure to whole energy system,” he said. latest virus waves demonstrating the uneven nature of the economic recovery, with the American Bank, Goldman Sachs, saying the delta variant may curb global oil Senator Arise: Lawmakers' Rejection of Electronic Vote Transmission Self-serving demand by one million barrels Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja position taken by lawmakers transmission, and positedthat about delivering the dividends adding that sending encrypted a day for a couple of months. from the South-west did not since there was already electronic of democracy to the people of information will need reliable But the fall from a multi-year A chieftain of the All align with the general view of voting in place, the next best this country. third generation technology. high of $77 may not all be bad Progressives Congress (APC) the people of the region, adding thing would have been to take “We have made some “In the circumstances, if we news for Nigeria, which recently and former senator, Ayo Arise, that whatever they did was to a step further by transmitting tremendous progress over the 're looking to send reliable data expressed its discomfort over the has described the decision by perpetuate themselves in power results electronically. years, I don't know why this at high speed with very minimal rising price of the commodity, the National Assembly to through rigging. “If it's not done now, it will suddenly became a problem. latency, it is best based on the explaining that as a resource- reject electronic transmission “Nobody has approached still have to be done sometime Anyhow you look at it, we have third generation than the second dependent country, it’s not in its of election results as troubling me about the policy behind the in the future, because it's the best to move forward from point A generation. interest for prices to rise above its and self-serving. way our senators voted. But it’s for us. We have to start thinking to point B, and the progress of “If you require information at Arise, who spoke when he deeply troubling, because it's about our country, about the this nation is paramount,” he high speed, with minimal latency comfort zone. not unique to APC, but I was Group Managing Director of appeared on the Arise News future of this nation and reduce maintained. and a very high reliability, Television, noted that it was not hoping that my party would selfish thoughts that one has to In a separate interview on recommendation will be to do the Nigerian National Petroleum look more into the future than Corporation (NNPC), Mallam Mele too late for the parliamentarians be in office and must be able the news channels, Chairman use a 3G network. In terms of to reconsider their stance and what looks like an attempt at to have control, to manipulate , Association of Licensed availability of service, yes we do Kyari, recently raised the alarm self-perpetuation in office or a what the results will be at the Telecommunications Operators have point of presence across over the rising oil price, saying it incorporate the use of electronic transmission of results in the deference to self security. end of the day,” he stated. of Nigeria (ALTON), Gbenga the country. was bad for nations like Nigeria “I believe that this sits clearly According to him, if there Adebayo, said depending on “Under the circumstances of since buyers of the country’s crude legislation before sending it to the president in the interest of with the National Assembly was no intention to manipulate, the level of data protection this conversation, I am not sure will either resort to buying less or members. For me, why it's then the electronic transmission required, additional security may that what they are talking about start the search for alternatives. the country. The ex-lawmaker, who troubling is because this would of results would not have been be needed if Nigeria decides is text only. If it's text only, I Kyari had put the oil price continue. If another party comes rejected at this point in time in to embrace electronic election don't see a problem. But if you band with which Nigeria will be hails from Ekiti, noted that he expected the APC to act to power, they will also want the country. result transmission. say they have to deliver election comfortable with at between $50 to to preserve this type of policy “It's not about ourselves, He explained that while the results and send photographic $60, even as Nigeria’s gains from differently, having always trumpeted progressivism as the that would put some shadow it's about our future. What is first generation of technology information, video clips, you increasing international prices of on transparency,” he said. good, and what everybody supports voice only, the 2G will require 3G,” he said. the product have also been wiped party’s slogan, arguing also that it was obvious that the clause Arise explained that in should be thinking first, is delivers voice and text messages Adebayo stated that while 2G out by payment of petrol subsidy Nigeria, rigging takes place about Nigeria. So, I don't while the third generation was present in all the areas of which recently hit N120 billion was rejected for selfish reasons. He maintained that the in the process of results think it's about ourselves. It's delivers voice, data and video, coverage, 3G was not, explaining that half of coverage throughout the country was 3G, while the other half was not, because the platform woulddefine what kind Fayemi, Senators Rejoice with Akeredolu at 65 of security and safety the nation should deploy. Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti as a students’union activist, legal patriotic Nigerian,who is very Ekiti Central Senatorial District, in for selfless service delivery and "We have enough firewalls to luminary, advocate of good passionate about one united, a statement on Tuesday, stated that uncompromising stature on protect the national network and Governor and Chairman governance and currently as peaceful and progressive Nigeria. the Ondo populace won't forget issues that affect your people. to protect citizens. But again, of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum governor, who was leaving no A compassionate leader, who is the indelible marks already made To this extent, you have carved there's no system that has 100 (NGF), Dr. Kayode Fayemi and stone unturned in the quest for ever concerned about the welfare by the Ondo Governor in the last a niche for yourself as a strong per cent security. Hackers are of his people. We wish him many five years of his administration and unsuppressable voice in both traders in it and they are also the Chairman, Southern Senators the betterment of and very smart at what they do, but Forum, Senator Opeyemi its people. more useful and productive years that has brought positive impacts regional and national politics. these are things that are done Bamidele, have congratulated the He described Akeredolu as a in service to God and humanity. in all facets of governance. "Most exhilarating and on a continuous basis. Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin dogged fighter, a strong voice in “I, on behalf of my wife, Bisi, "I rejoice with you today on distinguishable was how you at “You can't come to a point Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN) on his the fight against injustice and a the government and good people behalf of all the 51 Senators the most trying periods provided where you say you have built 65th birthday. man who never shied away from of Ekiti State, celebrate Governor from the South on your 65th leadership that has made you a enough firewalls and then you Fayemi in a congratulatory speaking the truth regardless of Akeredolu on his birthday and birthday. You have really shown darling of many Patriots across go and rest. It's something we message signed by his whose ox is gored. pray that God gives him long life and displayed uncommon party lines. You are indeed a leader need to continue to build on a Chief Press Secretary, Yinka He prayed God to give the and good health,” Fayemi added. phenomenon as Ondo State with inextinguishable passion. daily basis. So far, we have not Oyebode, described Akeredolu governor long life and good health Also, Bamidele described Governor, Chairman of the "We pray that God imbues you had any case of hacking into as a courageous, reliable, and in order to continue serving the Akeredolu as a worthy leader Southwest Governors' Forum and with more wisdom and vitality to our national network and that compassionate leader. people more. with unparalleled qualities for the Chairman of the Southern be able to contribute more services speaks to the integrity of what we have put in place. But to The Governor stated that "Governor Akeredolu has good governance and service to Governors' Forum. to your fatherland upon which say that it can't happen in the Akeredolu had spent a larger spent his entire life in the humanity. "You have really exhibited that Nigerians have known you to be future, I can't say it will never part of his life serving the people service of his people. He is a Bamidele, who is representing you are one leader with penchant an exemplar and a role model." happen,” he opined. WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY 11 12 WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY 13 14 THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 2021

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA COMMENT Email [email protected] JUSTICE FOR MURDERED IGBO TRADERS The killer soldiers must be brought to book, writes Sonnie Ekwowusi ast week, precisely on 13th July, 2021, some Nigerian sol- diers in a shameless display of military barbarism, swooped unarmed civilians. Prior to the murder last week, the traders did not on the defenceless Igbo spare parts dealers at the popular insult the soldiers. They did not refuse to replace the alleged fake car Ladipo Market, Mushin, Lagos and shot five Igbo traders engine as demanded by the soldiers. No altercation or quarrel between there dead on the unfancied allegation that they (soldiers) the soldiers and traders prior to the murder. So, why open fire on bought a fake car engine from one of the traders at the unarmed and defenceless traders without any provocation? But even Lmarket a year ago and had come to the market to have it replaced. if the traders insulted the soldiers or refused to replace the alleged fake While the soldiers were mowing down the traders they were spontane- car engine still the soldiers were not justified in opening fire on the ously and intermittently shouting, “now that you want to go as Biafrans traders. In all civilized societies, all manner of disagreements are settled we will kill you before you go”. Eye-witnesses corroborating accounts through due process of the law. Recourse to violence, self-help or any unanimously affirmed that as soon the visibly angry and trigger-happy form of brutality or extra judicial means in settling personal quarrels or soldiers arrived at the ever-busy Ladipo Market, they jumped out of disputes is not only an invitation to mayhem or breach of public peace, their vehicle and started complaining aloud that the engine which they but evidence that we are still occupying the lowest rung of the ladder bought from the market a year ago was a fake engine and therefore of human civilization. Whatever allegations the killer soldiers levelled needed to be replaced. The next thing they did to the rude shock of against the traders should have been resolved through due process. everybody at the market at that material time was to open fire on the More importantly, why the “Biafra” profiling? Why fan the ember defenceless traders and killed five of them on the spot, including the of secession and in the process kill innocent traders? At the risk of PRO of the Ladipo Market fondly known and addressed by his trader repetition, everything in Nigeria has fallen apart under this Buhari colleagues as “scatter”. No provocation prompted the murder. government. A few days ago the American Congress lampooned Addressing the visibly befuddled traders and sympathizers who had President Buhari for enthroning what it dubbed the Fulani ethno- gathered shortly after the dastardly murder, a spokesman of the traders religious supremacy in Nigeria. Let me repeat this here once more, we was heard lamenting in tears, “Please, all who are on Social Media, or, have come to a point of no return in Nigeria. Why should a group of wherever you are, all over the world, hear me. This is Ladipo, Mushin, soldiers storm a market and open fire on innocent defenceless civilians Lagos, where the Igbo traders sell motor spare parts. The soldiers came whom they contemptuously label “Biafrians”? You will recall that a here on the allegation that the engine they bought from one of us last few months ago the Chair of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT) year should be replaced, and then, before we knew it, they started Danladi Umar (when will this man be sacked?) was caught fighting shooting sporadically at us saying that now that we want Biafra we in public under the pretext that the small boys whom he was fighting shall go to Biafra with our own blood. We have wronged nobody…we against were “Biafrans”. Can you see how low we have sunk? A judge are just ordinary traders peacefully carrying out our lawful trade inside descending so low to be fighting small boys whom he branded as the market when the soldiers descended on us and started killing us. “Biafrans” in public for that matter. Therefore it is high time Nigerians We are not in government. They are in government and we said they came together and agreed on concrete terms on how to live together as should keep the government but that notwithstanding they have come one people under one nation. It is either we restructure or we perish. here today in search of us to kill us for nothing…we have wronged Old things must pass away. We need a born-again Nigeria. As I was nobody. Now the battle line is drawn; in a short time we will meet the saying here a few Wednesdays ago, “it is obvious that the Nigerian soldiers in the battle ground.” people are looking for an opportunity to discuss how they want to live This is one murder too many. It is a despicable murder that cries to together as a people in one country. Call that opportunity anything; the high heaven for justice. The Ladipo Market murder is not the first of fact remains that the Nigerian people are looking for an opportunity its kind. The Nigerian soldiers under the watch of President Buhari or a forum to express their views about the goings on in the country. have consistently been killing unarmed innocent civilians and Buhari Whether we like it or not, this meeting of minds of the people of does nothing to curtail the carnage let alone stop it entirely. Therefore Nigeria shall come to pass one day. It is not possible to force people beyond condemnation, this murder should be avenged with justice. with pent-up grouses about the injustices meted out against them to Look, allow me tell you one truth which you may find interesting. No live together without giving them an outlet or opportunity to express peace without justice because peace grows in the crannies of justice. their anger and views. Those who think otherwise are gravely mistaken. Fiat justicia ruat As regards the Igbo traders gruesomely murdered, the authorities coelom. Justice being taken away, said St. Augustine, all are nothing must quickly wade into this matter and immediately order the arrest but open robberies. This is why Justice Chukwudifu Oputa (of the of the killer soldiers and bring them to justice. Maintaining ominous blessed memory) once stated, “Injustice breeds intolerance, violence and silence on the murder or a denial of it or distortion of it will likely social disorder in the same way justice brings along with it the blessings engender reprisal killings leading to more spilling of blood. No matter of peace and mutual understanding. There will be no peace in a society the hatred spewed out against the Igbos, the rules forbid murdering where justice is denied or defeated. Where there is wrong it is only defenceless and harmless traders who were peacefully doing their justice that can right the wrong and thus restore the balance”. IT IS HIGH TIME NIGERIANS CAME TOGETHER business in the market. If we claim that we are practising Presidential Oputa was right. You cannot hypocritically be going about and AND AGREED ON CONCRETE TERMS ON HOW democracy then we must allow the rule of law to reign supreme. preaching “One Nigeria” when you are always killing the same people TO LIVE TOGETHER AS ONE PEOPLE UNDER Under the rule of law, the judiciary occupies a unique place as a and marginalizing the same people. It is nauseating that the Nigerian bastion of justice. Such regard for the rule of law, in contrast to the rule soldiers who should be killing Boko Haram insurgents, bandits, ONE NATION. IT IS EITHER WE RESTRUCTURE of force, is the bedrock upon which our country ought to lay claim to gunmen, hired assassins and kidnappers are turning round and killing OR WE PERISH civilisation. SOUND SULTAN EXITS MOTHERLAND AS BUSHMEAT HUNTS THE HUNTER Oludayo Tade pays tribute to Olanrewaju Fasasi, a musician who spoke truth to power

orn on November 27, 1976 Olanrewaju educated bandits cum terrorists and their kidnapping have travelled abroad to remember motherland. He steal common patrimony while the masses lack Fasasi popularly known as Sound Sultan comrades have become major factors driving policies reminds them not to forget the investment of those electricity and water among other social amenities. (SS) died on July 11, 2021 after succumb- in President Muhammadu Buhari’s Nigeria. The they left behind who contributed to their emigration. While the roads are bad, SS fumes that the parasitic ing to throat cancer in United States of idiocy of successive handlers of Nigeria is shaking Olanrewaju calls on immigrants to return home if leadership fly in the sky. Flying in this sense also America. He left the world at a time the country’s faulty foundation. In this tribute piece, they are facing difficulty abroad because ‘ajo o da shows how far they are from the realities on ground. that Nigeria is experiencing one of his I use three of SS songs which interrogate personal bi ile, no matter where u go make you try come To this iconic musician, despite suffering neglect Bpredicted outcomes of callous leadership. Sound troubles and social problems in Nigeria. back area oooo’. In this song, SS showed how and hunger, the children of the masses maintained Sultan is a social crusader who deploys his songs In his hit song, Mathematics, SS in the year 2000 group support facilitates transnational migration their sanity until the time they decided to catch to interrogate societal problems of migration, poor depicted Nigeria as Jagbajantis facing problems but like Nigeria’s politicians who forgets electoral their hunters and fight back against the system that leadership, corruption, problem of accountability, capable of consuming it. He argues that just as promises once they get to office, these migrants brought out the beast in them. Hear Sound Sultan injustices and their consequences on individuals and BODMAS (Bracket of Division, Multiplication, forget their benefactors who sold properties to send in Bushmeat: “see one day bushmeat go catch the Nigeria. Death is a social fact which every mortal Addition and Subtraction) was put forward to solve them to obodo oyinbo. SS documents marriage-for- hunter, one day bushmeat go catch the hunter… must experience but our contributions (to social mathematical problems, BODMAS can also be used green-card tragedy which makes women promised see them flying for dem aeroplane, on top all the order or disorder) will outlive us and either locate us by sensitive leaders to solve Nigeria’s problems. marriage by their boyfriends who travelled get jilted pains my people dey maintain, I don tire to dey in the trash can of irrelevance or elevate us among As a trained sociologist, I am not oblivious of the while these boyfriends end up marrying citizens explain, pikin wey never chop sef dey complain, social engineers who used their talents to fight for difficultly in being objective in human affairs. This as a strategy to obtain citizenship/stay. Apparently water and light na yawa, yawa, everywhere just justice, peace, and social progress. Olanrewaju Omo is why the display of clannish affinity through body seeing that as betrayal of trust, SS says ‘Hilary wey dark no power, the only pawa wey dem get na aim Fasasi may have joined his ancestors but his songs language, policy formulation and implementation u been promise to marry, still de wait, o boy she dem dey take dey oppress ooooo, what could be will continue to speak about the monstrous problems of the ‘converted democrat’ is tearing the country don tarry….you marry oyinbo for another nation, the answer, it could have been we don’t matter to which face motherland as he loves to call Nigeria. apart. SS says, ‘Oyinbo say, na BODMAS we use mago mago get dough…now you oyinbo wife them because dem chop your money, my money Through his works, he diagnosed Nigeria’s go use take solve mathematics, oya carry biro’. don know, next thing u know, she don go report every other person money, e ba mi ki gbe Ole… problems and proffered solutions to them but such Brotherhood, Objectivity, Democracy, Modification, u…..I wish say, I fit reach you anywhere you dey Ole…Ole….Barawo! dem dem na aim my pipu sabi, interventions do not matter to callous leadership Accountability and Solidarity are suggested eeeee’. dem dem everything na padi padi, everybody must structure. The hunters (parasitic leadership) failed solutions to Nigeria’s problems. Pretentious oneness, In his collaborative work with Tuface Idia in the know somebody to grow oooo….e bami kigbe Ole!” to heed SS’s philosophic submission that a day will ethnicised governance, and regional solidarity have song, Bushmeat, SS metaphorically frames Nigerian The State of affairs in Nigeria is one in which come when the bushmeat will turn around to catch become the order of the day while favouritism, leaders as the hunter and the children of the masses bushmeat in the form of bandits, terrorists, ethnic the hunters. Today, Sound Sultan leaves motherland modified autocracy, ‘shrouded’ accountability and who are denied quality education, the almajirai kids militia, kidnappers are hunting their hunters and not at the time the bushmeat (uncared for children of fostered discord have become the norm. who are children of the poor but dubiously pushed sparing of those who voted irresponsible leadership. the masses pushed to the margins of the society The problem of insecurity has made many to the streets while the children of the rich don’t To the bushmeat, the hunters are both those who by their callous political, religious and parasitic Nigerians to continue to explore opportunities do such practice, the unemployed children of the hold the levers of power and those who sustain their elite) is hunting their hunters. It is now crystal clear abroad and government is rallying them for poor and those who are victims of corruption of terror reigns through voting and those who sold that the crumbling sky is not one man’s problem remittances. This brain drain gained momentum the privileged few as the bushmeat. He envisions their future for temporal gratification in the form of as fear of insecurity covers the land and criminals during military misadventure over Nigeria. In his a time when the bushmeat will turn back at their stomach infrastructure. have partitioned and restructured the country along Classic, Motherland, SS showed his undying love tormentors and begin to hunt them. He observes Dr Tade, a sociologist sent this piece via criminal enclaves. Indeed, the insignificant and un- for Nigeria’s development. He advised those who that Nigeria is run by cliques and cabals who [email protected] THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 2021 15 EDITORIAL THE CAC AND EASE OF DOING BUSINESS

The Commission should live up to its responsibilities

he Corporate Affairs Commission electronically so that anybody can deal with us from (CAC), Abuja is not living up to pub- everywhere.” lic expectations despite the measures introduced by the new Companies n practice, online company registration is still a and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) mirage. Even some basic things work epileptically 2020. The essence of CAMA is to at best. For one, the CAC Server is for most time enhance the ease of doing business down and dysfunctional. This also applies to in Nigeria as it provides a framework Ithe commission’s portal. Besides, about 50 per cent for reforming identified onerous legal, regulatory, of company information on the portal is incorrect. Tand administrative bottlenecks. Ironically, the CAC Indeed, confusion seems to reign at the CAC, going is still a big obstacle to doing business effectively and by the endless customers’ complaints lodged at the efficiently in the country. Searches for availability complaint’s unit, and which the commission does of company names which ordinarily should not last not bother to acknowledge any longer. It is becoming more than a few hours at the CAC now last about four apparent that the commission is finding it increasingly months. Meanwhile, customers applying for certified difficult to cope with its daily activities. Things got true copies of documents at the commission can so bad last year that some lawyers in Abuja staged a hardly get them within a reasonable time. peaceful protest in front of the CAC Headquarters to On several occasions, the CAC had announced to press home their dissatisfaction with the services of the public that company registration in Nigeria could the commission. be expeditiously done online and that the certificate Under the guise of exercising its statutory powers, of such registered company could be printed online in the CAC is now undermining the integrity of the one’s office. Besides judiciary and disobeying court orders. The Balogun THE CAC IS NOT JUST ANY saving time, some in- Business Association recently instituted several law- OTHER INSTITUTION, formal costs incurred THISDAY suits in court against the Commission. Rather than IT IS STATUTORILY THE in the interaction EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU wait for the determination of the suits as required DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA CUSTODIAN OF CORPORATE with government MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO by law, the CAC resorted to self-help by cancelling ACTIVITIES IN NIGERIA. IT officials including DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU their certificate of registration and even went further transportation, CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI to impose new officers on the association. That a CANNOT AFFORD TO ACT IN EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN A MANNER THAT CREATES unofficial tips and MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI statutory body such as the CAC which is a party to a THE IMPRESSION THAT IT IS unnecessary delays THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE lawsuit can act in such manner is symptomatic of the ABOVE THE LAW would be eliminated. lawlessness that defines this season in Nigeria. All this enhances The CAC is not just any other institution, it is statu- transparency. “We THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED torily the custodian of corporate activities in Nigeria. are coming up with the use of technology so that our EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA For that reason, the Commission cannot afford to act GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, customers do not have to come here, while companies ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI in a manner that creates the impression that it is above can do their transactions from anywhere,” said CAC’s DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, the law. Besides, a dysfunctional and corruption-laden ANTHONY OGED ENGBE Registrar-General and Chief Executive Officer Garba DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI CAC is a big threat to economic prosperity in Nigeria. Abubakar, more than a year ago. “This is the way the SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH We therefore urge the Commission to adorn the world is operating; you don’t see customers around ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI breastplate of integrity, efficiency, competence, and CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI any CAC anywhere in the world. We are working DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO transparency in the discharge of its duties. That is the hard to have a very robust solution that will allow TO SEND EMAIL: first [email protected] only way it can earn the confidence of both the local us to render services to our numerous customers and international stakeholders.

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ANAMBRA GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION AND INEC’S HIDE AND SEEK

he Independent National Electoral Commission uploaded Soludo’s nomination and received stamped copy July 2, declaring an APGA candidate in the face of conflicting judge- (INEC), is about to reverse to the atrocious days 2021. INEC ought to have published it not later than 9th of July.” ments bothers on enlightened self-interest. The two scenarios are when Maurice Iwu told Nigerians that the environ- So what was INEC waiting for after the deadline for nomina- substantially of the same import, just different on the surface. ment for free and fair elections did not exist. tion of candidates on July 9, 2021? Defeaning silence has been the But INEC’s somersaults came out forcefully in its recognition The list of political parties candidates for the answer from our responsive INEC ever since. of Andy Ubah as duly nominated candidate of the APC. The November 6, 2021 governorship Interestingly, the same INEC through its Publicity and Voter scandal surrounding APC’s primaries, publicly corroborated by 12 Telection released by INEC on Friday, July 16, 2021 after contradic- Education office had in one breath tried to fault APGA on of the governorship aspirants and leader of the party in the State, tory declarations and time - buying shuffling on some issues, give the processes of its primaries and at the same time endorsed Senator , is unknown to INEC. To make matters more worrying indications that manipulation of election processes is the party’s compliance with the legal requirements as well as interesting, the Commission’s Chief Press Secretary is reported in afoot. outcome of its primaries. The Nation of June 30, 2021 as saying that its report on primaries The Mahmood Yakubu - led INEC position on the state of The listing of Hon Chuma Umeoji, a man who bought his of political parties is not for public consumption! A roundly the nominations of the APGA, PDP and APC does not make nomination form from the Oye leadership of APGA, was screened denounced APC primaries report is strictly for internal use but common sense. It only makes sense on the slippery playground of and disqualified by the same leadership as the governorship APGA’s pre - primaries process can be made available to whoever hidden agenda. candidate of APGA must rank as one of INEC’s audacious requests it in record time! Consider the swift response of INEC to the said enquiry by maneuvers in the Anambra governorship process. The electoral What the INEC has succeeded with its pick and choose a mere observer, Omas & Partners legal firm, on APGA’s ad body’s plea of court order for the action, rather than exonerate it administration of the Anambra governorship process is to portray hoc delegates congress and contrast it with the inaction on the of vested interest, actually intensifies the impression of partisan- the Commission as compromised. It has awakened Ndi Anambra rights of a participant in the election process, namely, APGA. ship on its part. Why was INEC silent on the other court orders to be on the alert. INEC’s secretary had fired a response with despatch on June on the same matter? Why did it single out the pro - Umeoji order Someone should tell the critical players at INEC that Anambra 18 to the curious letter of Omas & Partners dated June 16, 2021. for obedience? Why has it been unable up till now to put forward State has come a long way in her democratic and development But the same efficient INEC could neither move hands or legs to the grounds that made the High Court pronounce- journey. The last two attempts at seizing the state’s governorship publish the particulars of Professor Chukwuma Soludo as APGA ment superior to those of the federal and Anambra State High with sleight of hand in 2003 and 2007 crashed with ignominy. governorship candidate in compliance with the Electoral Act. Courts which mandated it to accept Soludo as the governorship Ndi Anambra are poised for a continuation of the developmental APGA national chairman, Victor Oye in an open letter on July candidate of APGA? strides of the administration in the next democratic 16, 2021 tasked the Commission in clear terms: “The Act requires INEC’s inconsistencies are all too evident in the contradiction dispensation. They are prepared for a long walk to secure their the Commission to publish the particulars of candidates no later of its position on PDP’s case and that of APGA. Leaving the gains. than seven days from date of receipt of the nomination. APGA PDP column blank on the basis of withholding court order while IfeanyiChukwu Afuba, [email protected] 16 WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY 17 18 WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY 19 20 THISDAY ˾WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG Email [email protected] MIDWEEKPOLITICS 08114495324 SMS ONLY Ekiti 2022 Guber and the Zoning Conundrum Victor Ogunje writes that the impending 2022 governorship election in Ekiti State has created so much tension, heat, attraction and attention with agitations for zoning of the ticket to the Southern Senatorial District

Fayemi Biodun Olujimi Ojo Oni

he agitation is not peculiar to a only the Northern and Central sections at of Representatives, Hons Femi Bamisile and as a battle of her life and a task that must be party. It cuts across major parties. the expense of the Southern part. Yemi Adaramodu, Senator Gbenga Aluko, achieved at all costs. In actual fact, she has As it is resonating in the ruling Sharing the same viewpoint, Mr. Kayode the Commissioner for Public Utilities, Hon. not only be fighting this in PDP where she All Progressives Congress (APC), Olubunmi Ojo, an engineer, said, “In Nigeria Bamidele Faparusi, all of APC stock and former belongs, the female Senator has also been so also is it reverberating audibly today, we are probably the most homogeneous Deputy Governor, Kolapo Eleka of the PDP ringing it rhetorically that the APC too must Tin the opposition Peoples Democratic Party state whereby we speak almost the same lan- are interested in the race hasn’t signposted hearken to that clarion call that it is either (PDP). The agitations are becoming deafening guage, from Ikere to Otun, almost the same any assurance or given a ray of hope for the South this time or no one. and creating serious abatross for the major dialect. So we’re kind of homogeneous as a South, as the game gathers steam and traction. Olujimi considered it a serious lopsidedness political parties and political figures. state. And as a result of that we don’t normally The only lifeline for the zone in APC has been for the Central and North to consolidate their Without sounding exaggerative, it could be zone. Historically, if you look at it from 1999 the rumour that Governor Kayode Fayemi grips on the governorship seat at the expense put aptly that it forms the major issue causing to 2018 which was the last election we had, had assured some monarchs in the zone that of the South with wide range of politicians . a serious fix in the two major parties in the everybody contesting from all zones. So you he would look their way this time. Though, Tracing the educational and political history state. They are becoming confused on daily can check that fact. And based on that, I don’t Fayemi has never believed in sectional politics, of the state, Olujimi said the first Professor basis that jettisoning such agitations regarded think there’s going to be any difference in but the pressure over zoning might make of Economics in Ekiti, Prof. Sam Aluko, was as way of ensuring equality in the system 2022. What we want or project right now him waver this time. from Gbonyin council area in Ekiti South. could spell doom for the polity. is actually who is the best person that can The presence of Fayemi’s friend, ally and Olujimi added that the only governor Since the advent of democracy in 1999 , help us improve the viability of our state by one of the eggheads of his administration, produced by Ekiti under the Old Ondo no one from the six local governments of bringing in investment, helping our schools, Prof. Mobolaji Aluko in the South, might also State, Evang. Bamidele Olumilua, was also the Southern enclave namely: Ekiti East, education; bringing in all the programmes help the situation. Rumour has it that Fayemi from Ikere in the South. The Senator opined Gbonyin, Ikere, Emure, Ise/Orun and Ekiti that will benefit the people, putting pipe-borne has a soft spot for Aluko and he may end up that the people were abashed how a district Southwest, has tasted that seat. This has been water in people’s homes homes, all over the being one of the anointeds for the plum seat. with such intimidating credentials could be agitating the minds of politicians and critical state. To tap into the God given resources that Putting it in the right perspective, the so degraded and despised in Ekiti politics. stakeholders, which makes it a serious issue we have. So to me, that is more important chances have become so bleak for the South She said the rhythm must change in 2022. prior to this election. than where you come from. I’m not saying in the PDP owing to the foray of the popular “I don’t think we should sit back and allow The politicians from that southern part, that the southern people don’t have great Segun Oni into the race and the fact that former the South to be subjugated just like that. This professionals, traditional rulers, are making people, we have great people in the south. Governor Fayose has anointed his protege, is not about parties, but about justice and fair serious case for the South in 2022. By simple But the way Ekiti is structured, everybody’s Hon. Bisi Kolawole from Efon Local govern- play. As I am canvassing zoning in the PDP, so arithmetic, it will be 23 years that the state going to go to the polls and the people will ment in the Central Senatorial District. also I am advising the ruling party to follow has been savouring democratic rule and the choose who they want, no matter where the With these intriguing games evolving in suit. We must play politics of morality here. South has not got a fair share. Everything has person is coming from. The person might be PDP, it will be an herculean task and miracle “Politics to me is not dirty, it is we the play- always favoured the Central and the North Mrs Oloro, Dr. Fayemi’s elder sister. If she is for the party to cede the ticket to the South, ers that are playing dirty games. We need to where the likes of Governor Kayode Fayemi, the best, so be it. I believe Ekiti electorates are except an ebullient personality like Senator be reasonable and allow someone from the Segun Oni, Ayodele Fayose and Niyi Adebayo extremely sophisticated and they’re going to Olujimi shows interest in the game to challenge South to take a shot. came from. choose who they want irrespective of where the heavyweights. “I am not seeing this fight as a personal In actual fact, the Southern people were they come from.” Also from the PDP flank, a renowned former one, it is collective. Politics doesn’t make one feeling alienated and tension has begun to The fact that heavyweight politicians from bank chief, Mr. Kayode Adaramodu from lacks conscience. Those saying zoning has no mount on this zoning palaver. It has gone the North like Segun Oni, Wale Aribisala and Ilawe Ekiti Southwest local government, has root in Ekiti politics were not being fair and beyond a mere factor , it has become a real others from the Central like Secretary to the joined the race . As finaciallly robust as he is, sincere . It is a real issue we need to settle this issue of monumental proportion as far as State Government, Hon. Biodun Oyebanji, he is considered a greenhorn and minnow time and I won’t sit back in the struggle to governorship is concerned in Ekiti. the Chief of Staff, Hon. Biodun Omoleye and who can’t tango with either Oni or Fayose liberate my people this time.” Leading the Pro-zoning pack, is the PDP the Attorney General and Commissioner for as far as PDP politics is concerned. Though, Olujimi has not indicated interest Senator representing Ekiti South in the Senate, Justice, Mr. Wale Fapohunda, are covertly Periscoping Olujimi’s political influence, in the governorship seat, but it was reliably Mrs Biodun Olujimi. In the countdown to interested and angling for the ticket has also who is the most vociferous zoning advocate, gathered that pressure has started mounting the 2018 election, she was loud and dogged been a threat to the chances of the zone in one would decipher that she is an old horse on her to throw her hat into the ring . in her quest that someone from the South both APC and the PDP. the two parties are with vast political experience and someone Without mincing words, the former Minority should get the PDP ticket. in a state of lull and couldn’t say precisely with full grasp of Ekiti politics. Apart from Leader is very influential in Ekiti politics. That was the basis for which she formed for now how the pendulum will oscillate that, she has the financial war chest and muster Even the current governor, Kayode Fayemi a strong coalition with the former Minister regarding this issue. admirers across party lines. has high regards for her political wizardry. of Works, Senator Dayo Adeyeye to wage The fact that two members of the House In Olujimi’s wisdom, she sees this fight She remains a figure that can match Fayose the war. This must have accounted for why and Oni in all departments of the game in Fayose, who had earlier showed preference PDP primary. for his former Works Commissioner and Ado During the countdown to the 2018 governor- Ekiti born politician, Kayode Oso, quickly ship poll, the Senator showed interest in the recanted and backed his then Deputy, Prof. The zoning duel has not also been left to Olujimi alone governorship race of the PDP. Due to fierce Kolapo Eleka , who is from Ikere Ekiti for to fight. A group christened Ekiti South Agenda, has horsetrading and resoluteness to defeat the that election. then Fayose’s candidate, Prof. Olusola Eleka It is not out of place to aver that the APC called for an end to the continuous marginalisation in the primary, she stepped down for Senator too has not rested on this matter. Though, Dayo Adeyeye. The outcome of the game, some strong forces like the APC Southwest of the Ekiti South Senatorial District in the Political where Fayose, a sitting governor narrowly won Caretaker Publicity Secretary, Hon Karounwi the primary for his deputy substantiated the Oladapo, had made nonsense of the zoning equations of the state. Speaking at a Summit facilitated fact that Olujimi command’s respect in PDP. brouhaha. By his own permutations, he opined by Ekiti Elders Forum held on Thursday, 10th day of June, With the ways thing are in Ekiti today, that Ekiti is predominantly homogenous in Senator Olujimi is now a darling of all parties language, customs and way of life and that 2021, in Ado Ekiti, the group’s Coordinator, Ayodele in Ekiti. Due to her seeming irreconcilable politics shouldn’t be allowed to divide the differences with Fayose, some APC bigwigs state. Oguntuase, said it was wrong for the district with the have been reaching out to her to defect to As crafty as Karounwi’s analysis seems to be, second highest voting strength have tactically been the ruling. the likes of Olujimi and other like- minds didn’t see anything reasonable in his self-conceited schemed out of relevance in the polity of particularly NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the analysis. They believe that Ekiti’s political online edition on www.thisdaylive.com power shouldn’t be blindedly arrogated to producing a sitting governor in Ekiti State THISDAY ˾WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 21 POLITICS Imo House of Assembly in GOVERNANCE IN PHOTOS Another Abysmal Outing has recorded another spate of shootings, but this time from the shameful show of ineptitude by the leadership of the Imo State House of Assembly, writes Amby Uneze

From left: Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; Oba of Lagos, HRM Rilwan Akiolu; and Deputy Governor. Dr. Obafemi Hamzat after the Eid el-Kabir prayer at the Dodan Barracks Eid Prayer Ground, Ikoyi, Lagos

Uzodinma Okorocha

lbert Einstein in one of his clas- to escape when he suddenly announced the sic quotes said “The measure suspension of the six legislators. of intelligence is the ability to During the shooting, the speaker was change.” And because what hurriedly bundled out of the premises by is constant in life is change, his personal aides. therefore,A society and its institutions need A source from the Assembly chamber to change in order to progress and achieve confided to newsmen that the speaker had growth and success. However, it has been at the commencement of the day’s proceed- difficult since 2011 to have a firm House ings unilaterally announced the suspension of Assembly in Imo State without having of those legislators without giving reasons a strong attachment to the executive arm; for such action. hence it has been regarded as a rubber stamp It was also gathered that the action of the Cross section of passengers boarding the free train provided by Government for the 2021 Eid-el- legislature. speaker infuriated other members including Kabir celebration, at the Iddo Terminal of the Nigeria Railway Corporation, Lagos State to travel to Osun State When an institution such as the Imo State some of those suspended which generated House of Assembly remains adamant to cur- uproar and shouting in the chambers that rent realities and development, its success led to the shooting by security personnel and growth lies beneath the ladder. attached to the speaker. Constitutionally, the three arms of govern- In the same vein, the member represent- ment: legislature, executive and judiciary are ing Ideato North state constituency, Arthur independent of each other. While the main Egwim was removed as the Chief Whip of function of the legislature is to checkmate the the Assembly and replaced with Obinna excesses of the executive in form of carrying Okwarra of Nkwerre state constituency. out oversight functions; checks and balances, In the legislative process, there ought to that of the judiciary remains the interpretation be an internal mechanism of investigating of the law, and the executive executes the a legislator accused of unparliamentary policies. On this note, there ought to be the misconduct and if such a member is found required synergy in order to streamline the guilty would of course face the gavel for democratic process and provide the needed suspension. In the very case of Imo Assembly, democratic dividends to the people. such procedures were not applied and the The autonomy of both arms was enshrined speaker, the deputy speaker and a few gullible in the relevant laws of the country; hence the associates of the governor in the house con- legislature should operate without reference nived and suspended the six legislators for to the executive arm, even though they are flimsy and unverifiableeasons r which they to complement each other. In Imo State, for termed as ‘unparliamentary misconduct’. instance, the leadership of the various houses One may ask, what constitutes unparlia- of assembly especially since 2011 have been mentary misconduct? An English dictionary deeply depended solely on the executive defined ‘unparliamentary’ as ‘a practice making her lame, so to say. Prior to that time, contrary to the parliamentary bodies’, or the house was noted for her astuteness, and ‘so rude and abusive as to be unsuitable From Left; Comrade Andikan Umoren, Secretary, Hon Uduak Monday Isaiah, President and Pastor John S. only answerable to their constituents. Even for parliament’. Archibong, Organizing Secretary of Peoples Democratic Party Grassroots Mobilisers in members of the same political parties with According to commentators on the vexing after a meeting in Uyo with delegates of the party the governor had had cause to disagree on issue; the leadership of the Imo State House of principle, but the gavel did not fall on them Assembly was urged to explain to the people as it is the case today. of the state and the various constituents of The suspension last week of six active the six suspended members where those members of the Imo State House of As- abusive language(s) or action(s) of those sembly to many sane minds was laughable. suspended legislators were made. They are Those suspended are four All Progressive also asking at what point or occasion they Congress (APC) members and two Peoples conducted themselves in such a manner that Democratic Party (PDP) members. They would constitute parliamentary misconduct? are: Uche Ogbuagu (APC, Ikeduru LGA), Again, if truly there were instances of such Anyadike Nwosu (PDP, Ezinihitte LGA and misbehaviour, has the house carried out Minority leader), Ezerioha Dominic (APC, proper investigation and debate in line Oru West LGA), Philip Ejiogu (PDP, Owerri with parliamentary rules and found them North LGA), Micheal Onyemaechi (APC, culpable of the misdeeds? Ihitte Uboma LGA), and Kennedy Ibe (APC, Revealing the import of the suspension Obowo LGA). clause in the House rules without investiga- In the milieu that followed the suspension, tion, one of the aggrieved members of the there were sporadic shooting in the Assembly House who pleaded anonymity said that complex which led people to believe that the such clause was unilaterally inserted by the state is witnessing another unknown gunmen deputy speaker of the House, Hon. Amara attack. It was later, unraveled that the sporadic Iwuanyanwu with a view to stifle democratic shooting came from the security personnel freedom of the members of House. guarding the Speaker of Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Paul Emeziem, probably NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the L-R: Ondo State First Lady, Mrs Betty Akeredolu; Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN); Lagos State with a view to create tension and make an online edition on www.thisdaylive.com Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi and wife, Erelu Bisi Fayemi; at the easy way for the speaker and his supporters Vanguard Newspaper’s Personality of the Year Award in Lagos 22 THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi FEATURES Email [email protected], 07010510430 Diversifying Nigeria Economy through Integrated Farming Scheme Francis Sardauna writes that with the commissioning of Integrated Farm Estate in Katsina, the Buhari-led administration is achieving agricultural mechanisation and food security resident Muhammadu Buhari on July 19, 2021 commissioned the newly established Integrated Farm Estate built and equipped by the National Agricultural PLand Authority (NALDA) which is designed to efficiently accommodate, empower and position a new set of 1,500 agro entrepreneurs every year in order to diversify the nation's economy and enhance food security. The NALDA integrated farm estate, cited in Suduje, Daura Local Government Area of Katsina State, is designed with a complete production chain for food and livestock, an irrigation system so that farmers will have three production cycles in a year, and farmers from outside the estate will also have their products processed and packaged so they can get more value. It comprises 40 poultry pens with a capacity of over 400,000 birds, fish ponds with a capacity of 200,000 fish, cow and goat pens with a capacity of 500 animals, rabbit pens with a capacity of 3,000 rabbits, bee apiary with a capacity of 540 litres of honey per harvest, crop farming, packaging and processing zones. The 100 hectares farm estate which is expected to generate over N1.7 billion in the first year, has a school, clinic and residential area with 120 units of one- bedroom apartments for the farmers and their families to live and work on the farm. The integrated farm, if properly harnessed and replicated across the President Buhari, Gov Masari and Ikonne during the commissioning of the farm country will increase Gross Domestic Product (GDP), reduce unemployment conditions for crop and livestock farming, husbandry, and more recently, a rising agro entrepreneurs every year from this thereby achieving food sufficiency. available manpower and willingness to youth interest. category, adding that the programme is With the farm’s poultry, fishery, rabbitry learn new skills, and good soil types for The president appreciated the governors, under NALDA’s National Young Farmers and beekeeping unit and a processing all season farming. who were at the event to witness the Scheme (NYFS), which President Buhari and packaging zone for chicken and He said: “The country is robustly historic inauguration, particularly Governor launched in November 2020. pepper, it is expected that the historic blessed with good weather conditions, Aminu Bello Masari of katsina State, for In his remarks, the Katsina State Gov- integrated farm estate will attract and good soil, human and material capacity, providing a 100 hectare land for the ernor, Aminu Bello Masari, applauded keep young Nigerians busy in crop and and a resilience to make a difference by project, and urged them to provide more President Buhari for his leadership foresight livestock production all year round. all the hardworking youths. We can do it, support to federal institutions that have and vission in stopping the importation Importantly, about 95 per cent of the and we will do it. No excuse will be good been mandated to work in engaging more of rice and other commodities which he nutritional requirement of the system is enough to remain a mono-economy with minds and hands to turn the economy said created additional opportunities for self-sustained through resource recycling. all the challenges in oil production and around for good. efficient food production and revitalisation Interestingly, participating farmers from fluctuating global prices when we have The Governor of the Central Bank of of the agricultural sector at all tiers of the 13 communities of Suduje, Madobi, vast opportunities in crop and livestock Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, who government. Kaya, Sharawa, Sukwanawa, Dadin Kowa, production.” also spoke at the event, said the financial He explained that over 70 per cent of Daberan, Benga, Kurneji, Zari, Mazuji, Buhari stated that reliance on oil has regulatory body would start giving spe- Nigerians depends directly on agriculture Tambu and Dannakola are being trained become a drawback on the economy cial attention to NALDA, while listing while the remaining per cent depends on global best agricultural practices in over the years, with unpredictable and some of the laudable achievements of indirectly on the sector, hence the need crop farming, livestock, poultry, rabbits fluctuating global prices that made it the administration through the Anchor for Nigerians to diversify the country's and fish farming, among others. more difficult to effectively plan budgets, Borrowers scheme for farmers. economy by farming all year round for Speaking during the ceremonial com- implement and measure outcomes. According to Emefiele: “Mr President, the sustainability of food production. missioning of the integrated farm estate, He added that: “as the world becomes as you told me during the inspection According to Governor Masari, the President Muhammadu Buhari, said his more globalised, countries will continue and I agree with you that this is the poor of the poorest Nigerians across administration decided to resuscitate the to draw from their competitive advantage best way to spend money. You are doing the 774 local government areas of the hitherto moribund NALDA to meet the to remain relevant. My belief, and it is everything that is possible to bring the country are being empowered by the growing agricultural needs of the country also shared by many Nigerians, is that dividends of democracy to all Nigerians.” federal government through different and the management of the agency under our country has a special advantage Earlier, the Executive Secretary of skill acquisitions and other humanitarian the leadership of Prince Paul Ikonne had in food and livestock productions that NALDA, stated that the Integrated Farm social intervention programmes like the not failed him. we must harness and promote to feed Estate had a capacity for 400 birds in the N-power, Tradermoni, Anchor Borrowers He directed all federal institutions to ourselves, and build a firm structure for poultry, 200,000 fishes, 500, 000 cows and Scheme, among other notable programmes. work in synergy in lifting and diversifying exportation. goats, 540 litres of honey per harvest, 120 He said: "When Mr President stopped the economy, and NALDA should be given “Our vision of a robust agricultural units of one bedroom apartment, clinic the importation of rice and other com- all the support it needs to expand the economy continues to provide amazing and a school. modities; that we must produce what we Integrated Farm Estate across the 109 results. Across the country today, we are He said: “These farmers are being eat and eat what we produced. Many senatorial zones in the country, saying seeing rising public and private interests trained on best agricultural practices in Nigerians were skeptical that we can not with more determination on the part in agriculture, especially among the youth, crop farming, livestock, poultry, rabbits produce enough and there will be hunger of the federal government, the target and a steady migration from subsistence and fish farming. Sustainable develop- in the land. But today, Buhari has been of lifting 100 million Nigerians out of to commercial farming. ment is the only way to promote rational vindicated and history will continue to poverty cycle is realisable. “With the support of public institu- utilisation of resources and environmental vindicate him more in times to come". Buhari therefore, canvassed more tions, like the Central Bank and Bank of protection”. Meanwhile, the resuscitation of NALDA synergy between government and the Agriculture, old tools are giving way to “The participating farmers are from 13 by President Buhari to meet the nation's people, and diligence in diversifying more mechanised styles of farming, credit communities, namely Suduje, Madobi, growing needs in the agricultural sector the economy, with agriculture as the lines are becoming more accessible, and Kaya, Sharawa, Sukwanawa, Dadin Kowa, and the inauguration of integrated farm backbone to realise the goal, adding that farming is becoming more acceptable and Daberan, Benga, Kurneji, Zari, Mazuji, estate in Suduje-Daura, would explores the nation is blessed with both human fashionable. Indeed, we are witnessing Tambu and Dannakola”, Ikonne. The available potential of job opportunities, and natural resources that could achieve a revolution in the agricultural sector.” entire farm has the capacity to generate entrepreneurship and avert youths his administration quest of lifting the 100 He reiterated that a globalised world over N1.7b in the first year. This farm restiveness. million Nigerians out of poverty. places more emphasis on competitive has the capacity to engage 1,500 women Thus, Katsina State government under According to him, the mainstay of the edge of the economy for relevance, and and youth directly". the leadership of Governor Masari must nation’s economy remains agriculture, Nigeria will always play a leading role in He explained that the integrated farm be commended for donating 100 hectares where the country already commands a the agricultural sector, with the vastness estate is designed to accommodate, em- of land for the NALDA's Integrated Farm competitive advantage, with good weather in experience, crop cultivation, animal power and position a new set of 1,500 Estate. THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 23 FEATURES Phenomenal ABUAD: Product of Excellent Vision and Creative Thinking

Seye Adetunmbi, the Convener of Ekitipanupo Intellectual Roundtable on a courtesy call on Aare Afe Babalola, the Founder of ABUD The Greenhouse

ABUD school The piggery

Seye Adetunmbi commissioned place dedicated for the A very patriotic Ekiti man. I worked with plant. I must also mention the feed mill him as a student's Unionist in Akure he was Baba Afe is a gem any day - Prof Adesuyi t was a time well spent on Thursday for the poultry and Youth Empowerment the Chairman of the Governing Council after Ajayi July 15th, 2021 with the 91 years old Centre where young people can be trained the break of the Accord between the NPN/ Aare Afe Babalola, the Founder of to acquire skill in various vocations with NPP in 1982. Very pleasant and very detailed “Baba Afe"s set up is a mini example of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti residential facilities and have practical when counselling. We are lucky to have him” how a state, indeed, a country should be run. (ABUAD). It was not my first time touch to their training.the latest addition - Femi Adebob Awesome place” - Olu Aluko withI him in the phenomenal ABUAD city. to the unequalled strides of Baba Afe As a matter of fact, my first time was in is the cleated large area for ABUAD “I was privileged to work with Baba Afe Unquote 2015 when he sponsored the hosting of Industrial Park. The college of postgradu- Babalola for the creation of Ekiti State. Late Baba Afe is certainly in a class of his Ekitipanupo 2nd Public Lecture delivered ate studies has a separate entrance gate Chief Ogundele, the owner of Davies Hotel own! The way he is on top of ABUAD by Emeritus Professor Michael Omolewa. with everything needed to function in in old Bodija Ibadan was our Chairman affairs and all his other businesses as a I have also been there on his invitation their section without being exposed to and Chief Mrs Bodunde Aduloju was our nonagenarian, is confounding! Another to other events in ABUAD including the the restrictions associated with the under- Honorable Secretary. Baba Afe Is a blessing to remarkable dimension to all his exploits formal commission of the huge Teaching graduate campus. Ekitiland and to humanity. May almighty God is his uncommon philanthropic disposi- Hospital Complex. What made my After posting my courtesy visit picture continue to grant our blessed Baba long life tion with a distinct milk of kindness. courtesy visit of July 15 different is that it on my social media handles with an intro and good health Amen” - Princess Durojaiye He continues to give without ceasing took me over two hours to be taken round on my tour of ABUAD community, it Ojo to people in need and the society. He the expansive frontline and unique private generated a lot of comments from a wide encourages hard working people in their university in Africa. range of people some of which are quoted “May he live more purposeful life for we respective vocations by supporting them I was particularly overwhelmed seeing thus: his people to tap more from his fountain of with his substance at every opportunity. In the rich large farmland of integrated knowledge” - Adesola Adewumi the Nigeria of today, he is one of the few products and various agro-allied factories. Quotes exceptionally blessed citizens who speak Tree crops include fruits (mango “Baba Afe Babalola is a special case study God bless Baba richly and grant him good the truth to the government of the day and cashew plantations with a juice in; determination and resilience. Remember health Seye you have seen ,God will conquer on constructional matters, wrong policies, processing plant), orogbo (bitter-colar); that his dream of establishing a University for you. - Abiodun Akindahunsi security and other disturbing issues of moringa plantation complemented by only came up after turning 70 years of age! global concern. a factory where moringa cream, soap See him still standing erect and agile besides “Baba Afe is one in a million. Baba has a I have since come to the conclusion that and integrated herbal supplements are you at 91! May God grant him many more genuine love for Ekiti.” Bode Ajayi Baba is a gift to mankind. The long life produced; food crops - maize, feregede, years in good health and everlasting happiness. God has granted him with a rare good cassava, yam, maize and too many green May we his prodigies be so blessed too. Well “The contributions of Aare Afe Babalola health at old age is for a purpose and a houses for vegetables, peppers, tomatoes; done Seye.” - Sir Kayode Otitoju to improving the quality of education in special grace. He is a blessing to us in Ni- mushrooms: livestocks - poultry (adiye, Nigera is worthy of note just as his efforts geria and I am extremely proud that he is awo), piggery, fish ponds etc. Some of “My niece just graduated from the univer- at empowering his community and young a fellow Ekiti man. You only have a very their harvests are sold to Shoprite. sity but your description of the agriculture Nigerians with agricultural skills. May God few of such phenomenon in a generation. As someone passionate about agricul- sector makes me want to visit now“ - Mrs reward his efforts with great success. The man It would amount to an understatement ture and commercial farming, it was an Monisola Oloruntoba is living his life as a legacy of philanthropy for that I admire his accomplishments a lot. amazing experience for me. The farm had our men of means to emulate if only they will “Ki Oluwa lo ra emi fun won. K’eku wi gone bigger and more robust than my “Visionary leaders are blessed with forsight, learn from his good example. Thank you very un ba ni, urin a mu. Ajinde ora a aje l’ase last visit in 2015, the tree crops I saw in he is one of them“ - Olusola Ojo-Omoniyi much Okanlomo Eletolua for your sacrifice in Edumare”. Aare Afe Babalola is an elder their early stages have grown and started documenting this.” - Tayo Popoola statesman of substance who inspires me beating fruits. I was too happy and had “That's awesome! Congratulations! An icon and many others a great deal. Keep up to take some pictures to complement my of our time. He is silently touching lives in “ I admire the man greatly, though never the good job sir! essay and message. the medical, academic, agriculture etc. May the met him.” - Ayo Fadaka In addition to the vast cultivated land Lord continue to strengthen and uphold him ...http://linkedin.com/in/seye-adetunmbi is a sawmill and a furniture making for the nation in Jesus mighty name, anen..” “Olorun a tubo lora emi yin o Baba Afe amazon.com/author/seyeadetunmbi section. ABUAD is now set to generate Sola Akeredolu Babalola. Amin. You have done beyond https://mobile.twitter.com/eletolua its own electricity, I saw the recently expectations for humanity.“ - Ayan Kolawole "A good tree never begets a bad fruit" 24 WEDNESDAY JULY 21, 2021 • THISDAY THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜2021 25

Group Business Editor Obinna Chima Email [email protected] BUSINESSWORLD 08024557078   ͯʹ˜ͰͮͰͯ MONEY MARKET REPO S & P INDEX S & P INDEX EXCHANGE RATE OVERNIGHT 4.75 CALL 4 INDEX LEVEL 535. 53% 1/4 TO DATE 0.48% N410.38//1US DOLLAR* OBB 4.50 1-MONTH 6 1-DAY 0.10% YEAR TO DATE -20.10% ̩   3-MONTH 10 MONTH-TO-DATE 0.48% Quick Takes Fitch, GCR Upgrade Afreximbank’s Outlook African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has received a set of strong credit rating affirmations and “Positive” outlooks from Moody’s, Fitch Ratings, and GCR Ratings, underlining its resilient financial position and performance. The ratings reinforce the bank’s access to capital at a competitive cost, ensuring the continued success of key strategic initiatives to stimulate African trade. A statement explained that Fitch revised its outlook on Afreximbank’s Long-Term Issuer Default Rating (IDR) to Positive from Stable, highlighting that the upgrade, “reflects the bank’s growing importance as the main multilateral development bank (MDB) providing funding to non-sovereign borrowers in Africa.” The agency further affirmed the Bank’s IDR at ‘BBB-’, its Short-Term IDR at ‘F3’ and its senior unsecured debt at ‘BBB-’. MEDIA BRIEFING Fitch observes that, “the significant capital increase (USD6.5 billion, L-R: Senior Business Manager, Airtel Nigeria, Oluranti Owoborode; Lead, Corporate Social Responsibility (CRS), Chioma Okolie; Vice President, Corporate Communications/CSR, of which USD2.6 billion paid-in) approved by the board of directors Emeka Oparah; Head, Public Relations, Erhumu Bayagbon, and Regional Operations Director, Lagos Region, Olusina Adegoke, at the Airtel Touching Lives Season 6 Media Launch in June this year highlights the increased strategic relevance of the in Lagos...recently h bank for its African shareholders.” Furthermore, Moody’s affirmed the Bank’s ‘Baa1’ rating with a Stable Outlook, while GCR affirmed Afreximbank’s international scale long- term and short-term issuer ratings of ‘A-‘ and ‘A2’, respectively, with the Report: AfCFTA Success Depends on Outlook revised to Positive from Stable. The agency noted that the positive outlook factors in its expectation, “for the status of the Bank as one of the most influential Africa focused Multilateral Development Bank (‘MDBs’) to strengthen, cemented by Regional Integration of Public Good its development impact on the African continent (measured by the loan book) now closing in on the USD20bln mark.” Stories by Dike Onwua- ECONOMY observed that the, “main message agriculture, protecting green and GCR similarly affirmed the international scale long term issuer rating maeze of the 2021 African Transformation blue ecosystems, and exploiting of ‘A-‘ on the Bank’s $5 billion Global Medium-Term Note (GMTN) Report is that Africa’s economic renewable energy.” programme, with a Positive Outlook. The African Centre for “These will all help tackle transformation requires much Amoako observed that the President of Afreximbank, Prof. Benedict Oramah, said, “Afreximbank Economic Transformation the three frontline challenges of more progress on regional compelling case on the potential believes in harnessing the power of trade to create jobs, grow prosperity (ACET) has stated in its African jobs, innovation, and climate— integration.” of regional integration to acceler- and help Africa reach its full economic potential. However, to support Transformation Report 2021 all national challenges with Amoako also said that African ate economic transformation is this vision the Bank must have access to diverse sources of capital at that countries in the continent regional components. And in countries should tackle three attested to by the reliance of a competitive cost.” should look beyond trade and a self-reinforcing manner, col- frontline challenges, namely jobs, Sub-Saharan African economies markets and collaborate in laboration to produce regional innovation and climate, which on importation of inputs for China Unveils 600kph Train delivering regional public good. public goods will also help build could make or break their efforts manufacturing and the dearth China has unveiled a maglev train capable of a top speed of 600kph. This, it noted was to ensure the experience and trust to pursue to transform their economies. of large domestic markets that The maximum speed would make the train, self-developed by China success of the African Continental deeper regional economic integra- He urged African countries would provide their manufactur- and manufactured in the coastal city of Qingdao, the fastest ground Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and tion, under the AfCFTA. to focus on these three areas, ers with some natural protection vehicle globally. achieve growth in their respective “To advance on these fronts “because they are the ones that from imports. Using electro-magnetic force, the maglev train “levitates” above the economies. will take dedicated leadership will shape Africa’s future, and He, therefore, stated that, track with no contact between body and rail, according to Reuters. The report titled, “Integrating at all levels, starting with top they are on every policymaker’s “integrating national markets into China has been using the technology for almost two decades on a very to Transform, stated: “But while political leaders and extending agenda. Tackling each of them larger regional markets would limited scale. Shanghai has a short maglev line running from one of its past regional integration efforts to government, private firms, supports the transformation thus help countries overcome airports to town. have often struggled, Africa’s academia, and civil society. agenda for growth with depth, these disadvantages and seize While there are no inter-city or inter-province maglev lines yet in China transformation requires much Africa’s leaders will need to and each requires and fosters opportunities to transform their that could make good use of the higher speeds, some cities including more progress on regional promote visions that go beyond regional collaboration.” economies.” Shanghai and Chengdu have started to conduct research. integration. their national interest and to He said: “Ensure jobs for the Amoako noted that, “African At 600 kph, it would only take 2.5 hours to travel from Beijing to Shanghai “To achieve growth with pursue collective action for the world’s youngest and fastest- economies must now rebound by train - a journey of more than 1,000 km (620 miles). depth and for the AfCFTA to common good. growing labor force by imparting quickly with transformative and By comparison, the journey would take three hours by plane and 5.5 succeed, countries have to look “Turning top-down visions into skills for work in 21st century forward-looking policies that hours by high-speed rail. Countries from Japan to Germany are also beyond trade and markets and reality needs to be complemented agriculture, manufacturing and embrace regional integration.” looking to build maglev networks, although high costs and incompatibility collaborate in delivering regional by a bottom-up, more problem- services and support digital The report stated that the logic with current track infrastructure remain hurdles to rapid development. public goods such as transport driven approach to national innovation by enabling the behind its definition of economic corridors, free movement of and regional problems to help private sector to deliver the many transformation as growth with EasyJet Ramps Up Summer Capacity people, well-managed river overcome the political economy benefits from digital technolo- depth was based on the need British airline, EasyJet plan to fly 60 per cent of its pre-pandemic basins, cross-border digital con- barriers that have slowed progress gies in creating jobs, boosting to diversify African economies, capacity in the July-September period, a big jump from the 17 per nectivity, and systems to control in the past.” productivity, and reducing orientate them for competitive- cent in the previous quarter, as COVID restrictions ease and travel future outbreaks of pests and The Founder and President of poverty while managing climate appetite builds across Europe. disease. the ACET, Mr. Kingsley Amoako, risks by promoting climate-smart Continued on page 26 The group said on Tuesday it was confident on demand for summer and autumn travel, adding that it was gearing its schedule towards European routes, given that Europe had opened up faster than Britain. EasyJet’s boss has been one of the most vocal critics of Britain’s WTO Lists Bottlenecks to Critical approach to travel over the last two months, slamming last-minute changes which have resulted in booking surges and mass cancellations, according to Reuters. For now, easyJet said it had scheduled 60 per COVID-19 Products cent of its flying on intra-European Union routes, whereas normally its business is split evenly between Britain and the EU. The World Trade Organisa- ECONOMY the list identified a series of therapeutics (pharmaceuticals); tion (WTO) Secretariat has issues raised by speakers at diagnostics and medical devices; issued an indicative list of those events in relation to: and general regulatory aspects. trade-related bottlenecks and expanding COVID-19 vaccines vaccine manufacturing and One common theme that trade-facilitating measures on manufacturing to promote its inputs; vaccine regulatory emerged from the list was “We must understand that true critical products to combat equitable access. approval; vaccine distribution; that essential goods and inputs economic diversification is a COVID-19. The indicative list was based therapeutics and pharmaceu- need to flow efficiently and very difficult goal to achieve for These includes inputs used on issues identified and sug- ticals; and diagnostics and expeditiously to support the resource dependent countries in vaccine manufacturing, gestions made by speakers at medical devices. rapid scaling up of COVID-19 such as Nigeria. And yet, it vaccine distribution and the WTO webinar Regulatory Regarding possible trade- production capacity worldwide. remains an imperative for our approval, therapeutics and Cooperation during the CO- facilitating measures, the The delay of a single com- country to become a part of pharmaceuticals, diagnostics VID-19 Pandemic, in June, and list included suggestions by ponent may significantly slow these elite clubs” and medical devices. the WTO symposium COVID-19 speakers in connection with: down, or even halt, vaccine The list released in advance Vaccine Supply Chain and general import, export and production given the globally of a High-Level Dialogue by Regulatory Transparency, on transit procedures; vaccine integrated supply chains that the World Health Organisation June 29, 2021. manufacturing and its inputs; Former CBN Deputy Governor, (WHO) and the WTO today on On trade-related bottlenecks, vaccine regulatory approval; Continued on page 26 Kingsley Moghalu 26 THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ BUSINESSWORLD NEWS

ELUMELU: NIGERIA HAS GOOD INVESTMENT 48 Disputes Resolved through Alternative OPPORTUNITIES ness in export markets, increase their productivity, and achieve Mechanism, Says DPR technological upgrade and hu- man capital development. Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja to the traditional courts. 48 cases, and right now, we simple mediation.” experts with in-depth under- It said: “African countries, He said: “The centre is have over 223 cases. In April, Auwalu stated standing of the issues before most of them relying on a The Department of Petro- involved in mediation, rec- “Notable among them is that the establishment of them for quick resolutions in narrow range of commodity leum Resources (DPR) has onciliation and arbitration. the first case that we resolved the centre would ensure the overall interest of industry exports, need to diversify the disclosed that a total of 48 After the inauguration of the which had been on for 18 the settlement of disputes players, stakeholders and array of goods and services disputes in the oil and gas centre, we resolved about years. It was resolved by through the use of industry Nigeria. to hedge against external and industry were resolved in the internal shocks. first three months after the “Their exports, if competitive inauguration of its Alternative will allow them to exploit their Dispute Resolution Centre comparative advantage to gener- (ADRC). ate higher incomes, which will The centre established help pay for the investments in in January, as one of the skills, capital, and technology centres in the National Oil needed to solidify their compara- and Gas Excellence Centre tive advantage over time. (NOGEC), was inaugurated “Productivity gains, start- in April this year to provide ing in agriculture, will allow a platform where disputes in agriculture to release labor to the industry could be settled industry and services, produce in a timely, cost-effective, and more food to moderate hikes in mutually agreeable manner. urban industrial wages, supply A statement by the agency, raw materials for processing in quoted the Director/Chief industries, increase exports to pay Executive Officer, DPR, Mr. for transformation inputs, and Sarki Auwalu, as saying that enhance the domestic market the centre had received many for industrial products. cases from operators in the “While technological upgrad- country. ing will sustain rising productiv- Speaking at the Petroleum ity and enables transforming Club’s second-quarter busi- economies to produce goods ness dinner, Auwalu stressed 2021 STRATEGIC DISCOURSE SESSION and services that command that the centre is currently L-R: Director, Legal and Corporate Affairs, International Breweries Plc, (IBPLC), Temitope Oguntokun; Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, higher prices on global markets.” attending to over 200 ad- Gbenga Omotoso; Lead, Corporate Communications/Public Affairs, Nestle Nigeria Plc, Victoria Uwadoka, and Immediate Past Chairman, Nigerian Institute of The report added that, ditional cases to ensure a Public Relations (NIPR) Lagos State Chapter, Segun McMedal, at the Strategic Discourse Session of the 2021 Annual Lagos Public Relations Week organised by “increasing incomes per capita reduction in cases that get NIPR Lagos State Chapter...recently ETOP UKUTT and employment, together with health and education, as well as peace, justice, security, and the environment will help to improve ‘Capacity Building Will Stop Restiveness in ’ human well-being and will have feedback effects of productivity Okon Bassey in Uyo head of administration and com- “Our corporate mission is to through empowerment exercise communities for ensuring their and growth.” munity relations, Alabo Clifford, provide hope and encouragement and sustainable development successful business operations. Indigenous oil and gas firm saying the oil firm has a passion to indigenous entrepreneurs; projects. Also speaking, the state “We have done and will commissioner for power and WTO LISTS BOTTLENECKS in Nigeria’s upstream sec- for transforming communities because when you succeed in TO CRITICAL COVID-19 tor, Moni Pulo Limited, has and catalyst personal and com- business and life, we also suc- continue to do this because we petroleum development, Dr. PRODUCTS said capacity building will munity growth in sustainable ceed and the county, Nigeria,” know that ultimately our work John Etim acknowledged ameliorate the Niger Delta manner through corporate social she stated. is about people, men, women, that Moni Pulo has awarded underpin COVID-19 vaccine region’s economic challenges responsibility. She said the empowerment youth and children of Mbo and scholarship to students of host manufacturing. and reduce incidences of youth “Our passion springs from our programme provides opportuni- Effiat. communities, trained some on The list is not meant to be restiveness. belief that policy - level support ties for entrepreneurs among “As we present our brothers skill acquisition programmes and an exhaustive list of all specific The Chairman/Chief Executive, for job creation should focus the beneficiaries to set up and and sisters in Mbo and Effiat carried development projects in trade barriers, nor does it make Moni Pulo Petroleum Develop- primary on capacity building. establish businesses that will help communities with equipment Mbo and Uran LGAs. any judgement on the existence ment, Mrs Seinge Lulu-Briggs “Therefore, the provision of increase the employment rate in to start up their businesses, our “Let me appreciate the or importance of bottlenecks, made the call at a community an economic-enabling environ- the state and the country at large. belief is that livelihoods will be management of Moni Pulo for nor on the desirability of empowerment programme for ment, sustainable employment, “Despite the socio-economic secured and enhanced.” Lulu- being a good corporate citizen by implementing any of the the people of Mbo and Effiat secured opportunities and capital challenges that we, like everyone Briggs posited. keeping to its Corporate Social suggestions on trade-facilitating communities in Mbo local govern- development in Mbo LGA will else had to weather, we have She thanks the state govern- Responsibility in providing measures. ment area of Akwa Ibom State. remain the guiding principle for continued to invest in the well- ment, royal fathers, security opera- people-oriented projects in the The Secretariat indicative list Lulu-Briggs spoke through the social transformation. being of our host communities tives and indigenes of the host state,” he said. of, “Trade-related bottlenecks and trade-facilitating measures on critical products to combat COVID-19” can be found here. Vetiva Predicts Bright Prospects for Cement Sector Goddy Egene Trade Area (AfCFTA). the mini renaissance in the Real million MT in Nigeria. pressures, the Industrial Goods Although it stated that capital Estate sector as critical support The report forecasts a mild Analyst at Vetiva Research, Vetiva Research has predicted expenditure (capex) execution factors for cement demand in drop in cement prices in the second Onyeka Ijeoma, said that the increased optimism for the cement could be threatened by a high 2021. “Notably, after six quarters half of 2021 due to an expected continuous rise in costs would sector in Nigeria, underpinned budget deficit (N5 trillion), it of contraction, the real estate increase in product supply and push cement majors to focus by stronger capital disbursements remained optimistic that the sector gross domestic product a potential re-launch of market- more on controlling the largest

from the public sector. government would obtain (GDP) expanded in the last ing campaigns such as Dangote controllable cost item –energy Vetiva noted that the increased adequate financing to meet a two quarters, driven by larger Cement’s “Bag of Goodies” costs. “So far, the largest producer, focus of the federal government sizeable portion of the funds investments in the residential promotions. Dangote Cement Plc has launched on transport infrastructure projects through debt financing. market,” Vetiva stated. Overall, However, Vetiva still projects an Alternative Fuels (AF) strategy was a key driver for its expectation, However, beyond the public the investment bank projects an a six per cent growth in average to manage their energy costs with the aim to position the trans- sector, Vetiva Research also high- 11 per cent growth in domestic cement prices in 2021, driven by better, while Lafarge Africa Plc Group Business Editor Obinna Chima port sector ahead of the recently lighted the continued reopening cement sales in 2021, taking inflationary and foreign exchange will look to ramp up on its AF launched African Continental Free of the broader economy as well as overall cement demand to 29.1 pressure. Speaking on the cost utilisation,” Ijeoma said. Capital Market Editor Goddy Egene Comms/e-Business Editor Emma Okonji Asst. Editor, Money Market Agusto, GCR Affirm InfraCredit’s ‘AAA’ Long Term Credit Ratings Nume Ekeghe Goddy Egene InfraCo Africa (Private Infra- operations as a credit guarantee buffers, liquidity, and broader Africa and retained earnings. Senior Correspondent structure Development Group provider, and the company’s balance sheet strength, which “The strength of the rating ËÒÏÏ×ÕÓØÑÌÙÖß(Advertis- ing) Rating agencies, Agusto & Co companies), KfW Development strong capitalisation, liquidity, are complemented by the sound is also partly supported by Correspondents and Global Credit Ratings (GCR) Bank, Africa Finance Corpora- and asset quality position, governance and risk manage- the commitment of the capital Chinedu Eze (Aviation) have re-affirmed the “AAA” tion, and African Development albeit counterbalanced by its ment culture; key fundamentals providers and the prospect ÜÙ×ÙÝÏÖÏÌÓÙÎßØ(Maritime) credit rating of Infrastructure Bank, to provide local currency self-regulated status.” underscores the credibility of of InfraCredit to sustainably Ë×ÏÝ×ÏÔÙ(Finance) Credit Guarantee Company guarantees and mobilise long According to the rating InfraCredit as a guarantor and grow its capital base through Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Chineme Okafor (Energy) Limited (InfraCredit), specialised term debt financing for infra- agency, InfraCredit posts a more importantly the sustain- internally generated capital Emmanuel Addeh (Energy) infrastructure credit guarantee structure in Nigeria. strong financial profile score ability of the business model. by way of earnings retention institution. Assigning the highest credit of 5.25, one of the highest “InfraCredit grew its core and new capital injection from Reporters ÙÝËÖÏÕÒßÙÑÓÏ(ICT) InfraCredit is backed by the rating on InfraCredit, GCR said: in the financial services capital by 64 per cent within existing and prospective equity Peter Uzoho (Energy) Nigeria Sovereign Investment “The rating is underpinned by industry underpinned by the the review period, following the and debt capital providers,” the Authority, GuarantCo and the uniqueness of InfraCredit company’s growing capital equity investments of InfraCo firm said. THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 27

    LASACO Pays N365m Claims to Deceased Workers’ Families Ebere Nwoji state who has been judiciously that the company will give paying the premium over the kudos to the Governor of LASACO Assurance Plc recently years that in case of death of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide paid a total of N365 million any of staff of SUBEB or local Sanwo-Olu for consistently claims benefits to the families of government staff within the paying the premium.” 159 deceased workers of Lagos service period, which LASACO He said this was because State government and those will pay some benefits. if there was no payment of from the state Universal Basic “The programme has been on premium, LASACO as insurer Education Board (SUBEB). since 2009 and I can also say would not pay the claims. During the cheque presenta- that the one that we are giving He said the policy was a tion which took place at Ikeja, publicity in terms of calling the group life insurance package Lagos, LASACO Assurance people you see here today to that the state arranged for its Managing Director, Razzaq come and collect benefits has workers, saying the claims being Abiodun, said in presenting been on since 2015. And we paid was for members of the the cheque to the families of do it twice a year. From 2016 state Basic Education Board the deceased workers, the to now, we have paid over N3 and local government. company was reacting to billion to various beneficiaries. According to him, the insur- premium paid by the Lagos “Today is the first tranch ance company and Lagos State State Government for certain that we are doing for the government arranged the same individuals based on promise year 2021 and I am sure by programme for direct staff that it gave that in case of any October, we will do another work with the state parastat- eventuality, the company would batch,” the LASACO Assur- als and MDAs and other civil pay such benefits. ance boss said. servants but the claims cheque “It is on that premise that we According to him, the sym- being presented to the deceased are paying the benefits. We are bolic issue in the presentation families was actually for lo- only making good the promise was the peculiarity of the cal government and SUBEB that we have made to Lagos project, saying it is something deceased staff. Standard Alliance Tackles NIA over Expulsion Standard Alliance Insurance Plc, ravaging effects of the COVID-19 The solicitors also averred that, has challenged its expulsion by pandemic. “despite replying your letter of the Nigerian Insurers Association A letter to the Director-General/ 18th February, 2021 via our Clients’ (NIA) and is seeking N10 billion CEO of NIA by solicitors to letter of 26th April, 2021 giving the payment for damages. Standard Alliance Insurance association an update of its claims The NIA said it took the deci- Plc, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa & settlement portfolio, the association sion because the company was Co dated July 5, 2021 stated “the proceeded to rely on Section 4 (5) allegedly not meeting obligations reason proffered for terminating our of its Constitution in the letter of to policyholders. Client’s membership is glaringly termination dated 18th February, But the company in reaction and demonstrably false, considering 2021, to give our client 60 days argued that Mr. Ganiyu Musa, that in 2018, our Client made a cash to settle all outstanding claims who doubles as Chairman of premium receipt of N3, 757,303,000 failing which the association will the Governing Council of NIA and it paid claims of N2, 707,875,000 proceed to publish the expulsion and Managing Director/CEO of inclusive of individual life policy in the national newspapers, which Cornerstone Insurance Plc, ought claims. threat was consummated on 23rd to have recused himself from the “Also, in 2019, our client made day of June, 2021.” It stated further matter given the pending case a cash premium receipt of N2, that funds which its Client reported between both companies before 427,120,000 and it paid claims to the association that Continental a Federal High Court and the of N1,907,834,000 inclusive of Re- Insurance Co. Ltd was sup- Economic and Financial Crimes individual life policy claims. posed to refund to it were wrongly Commission (EFCC). “In 2020, due to the effect of the classified as outstanding claims Standard Alliance, equally Corona Virus Pandemic look-down, against its Client. It said that insisted that the NIA erred in our Client made a cash premium despite the purported termina- expelling it from the association receipt of N967,753,000 and it even tion of its client’s membership over the issue of claims, saying had to resort to other reserve of the association, the latter still it paid claims of N2.7 billion in funds to enable it pay claims proceeded to demand that its client 2018, N1.9 billion in 2019 and of N1,148,327,340 inclusive of should pay its annual subscription N1.1 billion in 2020 despite the individual life policy claims.” fees and other levies. Sigma Pensions Boss Lists Challenges in Sector Ebere Nwoji “Infrastructure, housing and but that it had challenges with SME finance, we are yet to investment in the early years. The past President of the meet our target in this aspect,” “In dollar terms, it would Pension Fund Operators As- Uduanu said. have been bigger but for sociation of Nigeria (PenOp) The third challenge he exchange rate of naira to dollar and Managing Director, Sigma pointed out was to deal with which is not a problem or our Pensions Limited, Mr. Dave the exchange rate. fault. Uduanu, has said operators He further pointed out the “But I think the scheme in sector are currently facing challenge of getting states and has done reasonably well. three core challenges. informal sector involved in the In terms of building institu- Uduanu, who spoke in scheme as well as the need to tions, it has done well the an exclusive interview with deepen micro insurance which Pension Fund Administrators THISDAY at the recent third according to him was at its (PFAs) are well regulated annual PenOp-NASS retreat in early days. and very strong institution Lagos, listed the challenges as He said up till now many in terms of Investment and first, outreach. state government are yet to building capacities and He said the number of con- enact their Contributory Pension financial market, PFAs are tributors currently reached by Scheme laws. the reference in financial the operators for contribution He said despite these chal- sector in Nigeria”, Uduanu into the Contributory Pension lenges, a critical examination stated. Scheme was still low. and assessment of the pension According to him, in terms According to him, the opera- sector performance, showed that of advocacy and advancing tors still have not reached up at 17 years, since the Contribu- the course, the PFAs are at to 50 per cent of the working tory Pension Scheme began in the forefront and in terms population. Nigeria, operators have done of professionalism you have He said the second challenge reasonably well. many of young professionals was deepening investment to According to him, by now, the working for the industry create impact. fund should have been bigger building future leaders. 28 THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ

       United Capital: Outperforming the Volatile Market Despite the heavy economic headwinds, United Capital Plc recorded a growth of 65 per cent in profit for the half-year ended June 30, 2021, writes Goddy Egene he first six months of 2021 were very challenging for companies due to the economic headwinds. Hence, investors and all stakeholders have been ap- prehensive over how companies would Tperform in their financial results. Operating in the financial sector and investment space in particular, was even more challenging as returns on investment was impacted negatively due to rising inflation and among other factors. The stock market that recorded a growth of 50 per cent in 2020, was the target of many investors and investment banks, fell by 5.8 per cent in the first half (H1)of this year as the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Limited declined from 40,270.72 to 37,907.28. Also, the market capitalisation of NGX went down by N1.303 trillion in H1 of 2021. Profit-taking, shift to fixed income (FI) market by local investors due to uptick in yields and low participation by foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) had proved to a big challenge for players in the stock market. Also, the steep rise in yields on sovereign instruments like Treasury Bills and FGN Bonds had undermined the risk appetite of investors for equities, as most high net worth investors (HNIs) and institutional investors took comfort on the low double digit rates in the fixed income environment in the H1 unlike in 2020 when yields on treasuries were near zero and bond yields waned to low single digit. “More so, as concerns on probable Naira devaluation continues to fuel speculative demand for foreign currency (FCY), equities have seen notable outflow of funds, notwithstanding the attractive valuation of large- and mid-cap N3.14 billion in 2021. unwavering commitment to increasing value governments, companies, and individuals. counters with strong fundamental,” she said. Total assets improved by 44 per cent to creation for all their clients amid the harsh Ashade had last year told shareholders that Genuine concerns on reduced liquidity N320.23 billion, compared to N222.75 billion socio-economic environment and lingering the company was optimistic about the year in the foreign exchange (FX) market, which as at December 31, 2020. effects of the devastating pandemic. 2021, saying it presented greater opportunities has constrained some foreign investors from One of the factors that was responsible for “In the remaining half of the year, we will for innovation, growth, and expansion beyond repatriating dividend and proceeds of divestment the impressive performance was efficient cost be focused on our transformation agenda by its current ecosystem.” equally influenced the weak participation of management that led to a decline in the cost deepening our value propositions to underserved The GCEO had said that while the CO- foreign investors in Nigerian equity market. to income ratio. The cost-to-income ratio for market segments especially mass affluent and VID-19 pandemic dealt a devastating blow to All these made the investment banking space the period declined by 3.58 percentage points mass market clients, while driving phased businesses and economies globally including a challenge to navigate and report positive largely attributable to the faster growth in automation of our business processes. Our our domestic operating environment, as a results. revenue relative to operating expenses, bespoke affluent segment propositions including responsible organisation, the focus of However, United Capital Plc, which is a which indicated a continued improvement private trusts, and wealth management solutions United Capital Plc was the safety of their leading investment bank and a foremost pan- in operational efficiency. are curated to increase, preserve, and transfer staff while helping their clients to navigate African financial and investment services group, Also, United Capital’s profitability margin wealth for our fast-growing affluent customer those challenging times towards meeting their defied the headwinds and soared through the improved with PBT margin gaining 3.58per- base. Furthermore, our best-in-class digital respective goals. volatile markets to record significant growths centage points to 54.57 per cent for H1 2021 platforms remain central to our purpose of He said one of the strategies the company in all performance indices in H1 of 2021. relative to 50.99 per cent for H1 2020 as PBT transforming lives and promoting financial adopted to sustain the performance during the A breakdown of the results released last increased by 65 per cent during the period. inclusion across Africa by providing easy challenging times, was the commencement of week, showed a revenue of N6.85 billion in Similarly, PAT margin improved, gaining 2.81 access to collective investment schemes and virtual operations without significant impact 2021, compared to N4.45 billion, which is a percentage points despite a higher tax charge micro loans while promoting socio-economic on their service delivery to clients. growth of 54 per cent. The revenue was driven of 16 per cent development. Our stakeholders can be assured “Our digital platforms (InvestNow – mobile by a strong growth in fee and commission Commenting on the group’s performance of our commitment to delivering superior and web) continued to serve our clients income (+128 per cent) and investment income the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of returns. More importantly, we will continue globally from the comfort of their homes. In (+27 per cent) despite 60 per cent decline in United Capital Plc, Mr. Peter Ashade, said: to work with our regulators and other capital addition, we increased client engagements net trading income “I am excited to inform our stakeholders that market operators on structural reforms to deepen across digital platforms such as streaming Operating income printed at N6.81 billion United Capital Plc recorded a very impressive the capital market as the domestic economy investment clinics and other advisory services. in 2021, indicating a rise of 57 per cent from half year 2021 result following a record year continues the path to recovery,” he said. All internal and external workplace interactions N4.35 billion in 2020. Operating expenses rose performance in 2020. We ended the first half He said United Capital Plc remains a leader have been seamless in a virtual environment by 43 per cent to N3.11 billion from N2.18 of the year on a very high note as reflected in the financial and investment services due to our improved technology capabilities. billion in 2020. in our earnings growth and strong financial space, with a mission to provide bespoke and We developed new competencies including Profit Before Tax (PBT) rose by 65 per cent performance.” innovative value-added services to its clients. propositions to exploit emerging opportunities to N3.74 billion in 2021, compared to N2.27 According to him, United Capital Plc is in The group, he added, aimed to transform identified while also creating buffers such as billion in 2020, while profit after tax (PAT) a growth phase, saying that their strong the African continent by providing innovative income earnings on long term investments,” grew by 64 per cent from N1.91 billion to financial performance was a testament of their and creative investment banking solutions to Ashade said. NBC, Coca-Cola Present Start-up Equipment to Vulnerable Nigerians

In furtherance of efforts to support impactful interventions, implemented munity leader, Azubuike Erondu, also and create value,” Erondu said. “We also recognise the critical role communities and governments to the program with funds from The commended the NBC and Coca-Cola According to the Director of Public and contributions of the micro, small, cushion the impact of the COVID-19, Coca-Cola Foundation. Nigeria for the intervention, describing Affairs and Communications, NBC, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) Coca-Cola has donated business The beneficiaries, who beamed it as a more sustainable approach to Ekuma Eze, the intervention, tagged sector to the Nigerian economy. start-up equipment to women and with smiles while receiving the helping communities overcome the ‘Making a Difference’, ‘was a continua- Therefore, this intervention will youths in communities in Aba, Abia equipment, expressed gratitude to economic disruptions caused by the tion of the Coca-Cola System’s support not only lift the beneficiaries out State and Port Harcourt in Rivers the Coca-Cola System, noting that pandemic. for Nigerians adversely affected by of their present predicament, but it under its post COVID-19 community the gesture would improve their “The NBC and Coca-Cola Nigeria the COVID-19 pandemic. also presents an important avenue to interventions. economic status. have done excellently well for us, “We are witnesses to the disruptions stimulate the growth of this important The beneficiaries, who had earlier “I am very grateful for this sewing and we are grateful. This is a timely caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, sector.” been trained by a local NGO, Genius machine and other fashion design- intervention, especially for people especially to families, small busi- Ekuma, who assured that the Hub, on behalf of the Coca-Cola ing equipment given to me, and I who are still recovering from the nesses, artisans and other vulnerable equipment grant was a precursor System, received shoe-making and want to thank you, Nigerian Bottling effects of the pandemic. Nigerians. to many more rewarding programs tailoring equipment to start their Company and Coca-Cola Nigeria. “The pandemic affected businesses “As a responsible organisation to support host communities, com- businesses and begin their journey You have not only given us fish, and brought untold hardship on many committed to the growth of our mended its implementing partner, to self-reliance. but you have also taught us how to people. But through this intervention, communities, we believe this initiative Genius Hub, for the diligent execution The Coca-Cola System, which has fish,” one of the beneficiaries, Mrs. we have gained valuable skills and will support and empower vulnerable of the program and reiterated the always supported its stakeholders Gift Ejike, said. received start-up equipment and people in our communities to regain System’s commitment to the welfare and communities with positive and Another beneficiary and a com- support to launch our businesses their feet post-pandemic. of Nigerians. THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 29

      Zenith Bank’s Rising Brand Value Zenith Bank Plc has remained a customer-centric institution with a clear understanding of its market and environment which reflects in the numerous recognitions bestowed on the bank, writes Ugo Aliogo ince it commenced business in May 1990, Zenith Bank Plc has built a respectable brand that is recognised globally. Zenith Bank which set out with the vision of becoming the leading Nigerian, Stechnology-driven, global financial institution that provides distinctive range of financial services has lived up to the expectations of its founder, Mr. Jim Ovia with the numerous awards the bank has won in the past two years under the leadership of Mr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu. Since Onyeagwu was appointed its Chief Executive Officer, the bank has won a total of 25 awards bestowed on it both from local and international reputable institutions and agencies. For instance, in 2019, it was named the Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria by World Finance; the Biggest Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 capital by The Banker; the Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria, by The Banker; Best Digital Bank in Nigeria, by Augusto & Co.; Bank of the Year by BusinessDay Newspaper; Best Bank in Retail Banking, BusinessDay Newspaper, Most Innovative Bank of the Year, Tribune Newspaper; and Best Company in Promotion of Good Health and Well-Being, SERAS Awards. Also, in 2020, Zenith Bank was named Bank of the Year (Nigeria) by The Banker; Best Bank in Nigeria, by Global Finance Magazine; Biggest Bank in Nigeria by Tier-1 capital by The Banker; Most Valuable Banking Brand in Nigeria by The Banker; Best Corporate Governance ‘Financial Services’ Africa Ethical Boardroom; Bank of the Decade (People’s Choice), THISDAY Newspaper; Bank of the Year by Independent Newspaper; Best Bank in Retail Banking by BusinessDay Newspaper; Best Company in Promotion of Good Health and Well-Being, SERAS Awards and Best Company in Promotion of Gender Equality and Women Empowerment by SERAS Awards. Onyeagwu In 2021, so far the bank has been recognised as the Best Bank in Nigeria by Global Finance Additionally, Zenith Bank places high premium The bank’s unaudited results for the first quarter We expect cost of funds to remain downwardly Magazine; Best Commercial Bank, Nigeria, on the pivotal role of exceptional service delivery ended 31st March 2021, showed that its profit sticky as the bank aggressively grows its retail by World Finance; Biggest Bank in Nigeria in its drive to consistently exceed stakehold- after tax (PAT) rose to N53.1 billion, from N50.5 deposits. by Tier-1 Capital, The Banker; Most Valuable ers’ expectations. The bank has in place a billion recorded in March 2020. This was despite “We look for a 30 basis points net interest Banking Brand in Nigeria, by The Banker; well-articulated strategy to not only meet and a very challenging macroeconomic environment margin (NIM) expansion in 2021 ending. The Best Corporate Governance ‘Financial Services’ surpass customer expectations, but also ensure aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic. preceding is likely to offset cost growth and Africa by Ethical Boardroom. that plans are fine-tuned to address the changing According to the bank’s unaudited statement of lead to profit before tax growth of 18.2 per cent, On his part, Onyeagwu has also been recog- taste and sophistication of the customer. account for the first quarter of 2021, the Group’s with RoAE settling at 21.7 per cent. nised specially for the visionary leadership he Its underlying philosophy is to remain at all profit before tax also grew from N58.8 billion “Beyond this year, other profitability metrics look has displayed at the bank with awards which times, a customer-centric institution with a clear to N61 billion in the same period. healthy, fee income growth has been consistent, included Bank CEO of the Year by Champion understanding of its market and environment. The profitability was driven by the optimisa- and the bank has kept a lid on operating expenses. Newspaper in 2019; Bank CEO of the Year by Also, the bank remains committed to promoting tion of the cost of funds and improvement in We expect operating expenses to be well controlled BusinessDay Newspaper in 2020 and CEO of good corporate governance and best practices non-interest income. during our forecast period. the Year by SERAS Awards. in the conduct of its business. This is because In addition, the bank’s cost of funds reduced “We expect the cost-to-income ratio to settle Indeed, Zenith Bank blazes the trail in digital it believes that good corporate governance significantly from 2.6 per cent in March 2020, to within the 43 per cent – 45 per cent range, well banking in Nigeria; scoring several firsts in the engenders public trust and ultimately ensures 1.1 per cent in March 2021. This also reflected below the industry average,” the report stated. deployment of Information and Communica- that the company meets the expectation of all in interest expense which dropped by 45 per It stated that over the last five years, Zenith tion Technology (ICT) infrastructure to create stakeholders. cent from N32.8 billion to N18 billion over the Bank is the only bank among its peers that has innovative products that meet the needs of its Zenith Bank’s business continuity policy is to same period. kept its non-performing loans ratio below the teeming customers. maintain the continuity of its activities, facilities, Considering its performance over the years, statutory limit of five per cent (Full year 2020: The bank is verifiably a leader in the deployment systems and processes and where these are Zenith Bank has been predicted to continue to 4.3 per cent) consistently. of various channels of banking technology, and disrupted by any event, to enable it to return retain its position as Nigeria’s leading tier-1 Speaking on the various awards won by the the Zenith brand has become synonymous with to ‘normal’ operations as soon as possible. lender, according to a report by Coronation bank, Onyeagwu said it was a demonstration of the deployment of state-of-the-art technologies in Its Information Security Policy is to provide a Asset Management. the bank’s resilience and doggedness as an institu- banking. Driven by a culture of excellence and security framework that will ensure the protection In its 2021 Bank Report on Nigerian lenders tion given the very challenging macroeconomic strict adherence to global best practices, the bank of information from unauthorised access, loss or titled, “Nigerian Banks, Resilience Built In,” released environment brought about by the COVID-19, has combined vision, skillful banking expertise, damage while supporting the open, information- recently, the Lagos-based research and financial which had a significant deleterious impact on and cutting-edge technology to create products sharing needs of the bank. advisory firm stated that while Zenith Bank’s businesses globally. and services that anticipate and meet customers’ Non-Performing Loans (NPLs) is likely to come “It is also an affirmation of our commitment to expectations; enable businesses to thrive and grow under pressure due to persisting challenges in delighting and creating value for our customers wealth for customers. the domestic economy.” through a broad range of superior product offer- In the same vein, Zenith Bank has clearly The report, which forecasts that the total assets ings, best-in-class service and top-of-the-range distinguished itself in the banking industry through of the country’s five Tier 1 lenders will increase technology,” he added. superior service quality, unique customer experience, from N37.49 trillion in 2020, to N43.93 trillion Onyeagwu also thanked the lenders’ numerous and sound financial indices. These have become and N48.31 trillion in 2021 and 2022 respectively, customers for their loyalty over the years. part of its corporate culture to the extent that Driven by a culture of projects that Zenith Bank will lead its peers with He added: “First is to say that Zenith Bank the bank is easily associated with the following total assets of N10.11 trillion and N11.21 trillion has grown organically, we are disciplined, we are attributes: Best-in-class customer experience, excellence and strict in 2021 and 2022 respectively. focused and we look for where to extract value. creativity, excellent financial performance, good adherence to global best It stated: “Rated on key parameters such as “However, we would not do a deal or a asset quality, stable management, dedicated and asset quality, profitability and return to investors, corporate action just for the sake of doing it. If highly skilled work-force, cutting-edge Information practices, the bank has Zenith Bank’s track record has been impressive. we find a deal that fits into our profile, of course and Communication Technology, efficient and combined vision, skillful The bank is a clear market leader, growing its we would do a deal. It has to be something that effective distribution channels. banking expertise, and Total Assets and Net Income by an annual average fits into our profile. The strategic objective of Zenith Bank also of 15.7 per cent and 15.5 per cent, respectively, “Until we find such, we would continue to includes a continuous improvement of its capac- cutting-edge technology over the last five years. grow organically. We are already in , we ity to meet customers’ increasing and dynamic to create products and “Funded income has been the largest and most are in Sierra Leone, Gambia, UK and by no financial needs as well as sustain high quality stable source of income for Zenith Bank over means that is not to say that we cannot expand growth through investments that impact the services that anticipate the last five years (as a share of revenue: 57 beyond this location. It depends on what we quality of service to its existing and potential and meet customers’ per cent). Although Net Interest Margin (NIM) see as events continue to unfold.” customers, constant upgrade of its ICT infra- expectations; enable compressed significantly last year, the reversal in Clearly, Zenith Bank under the leadership structure, unwavering investment in training and market yields is likely to drive a strong recovery of Onyeagwu has been increasing in brand re-training of its people and regular reinforcing businesses to thrive in interest income in 2021. “According to manage- strength and this has translated to better returns of its customer services delivery charter with and grow wealth for ment, the bank has already re-priced most of its to shareholders, improved customer services and regards to continually changing customer needs. customers loans upwards by one per cent -three per cent. enhanced value to shareholders. 30 THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ

BUSINESSWORLD INTERVIEW Olugbenjo: Why We Floated Infrastructure Fund The Chief Investment Officer, Stanbic IBTC Infrastructure Fund, Dolu Olugbenjo, in this interview speaks on the recently launched N100 billion Infrastructure Fund, the bank’s experience as an asset manager, among others. Excerpts:

tanbic IBTC Asset Management a contract we value wholesomely. Specifically, tangible solutions via careful and rigorous deal recently launched a N100 bil- Stanbic IBTC Infrastructure Fund will provide an selection processes; robust investment analyses lion Infrastructure Fund as an avenue for investors to gain exposure to critical and investment management processes; as well alternative investment outlet for infrastructure projects while ensuring that risks as best practices in governance framework. We institutional investors seeking long are mitigated and there are commensurate returns believe protection of investors’ interest always termS sustainable investment opportunities for the risks assumed. It will provide the requisite wins in the long run and that will remain the and returns. Can you tell us more about transparency via a governance framework to clearest path to growth. the Fund? ensure that investors are kept aware of the Yes, we launched a N100 billion Infrastructure investments the Fund makes. Beyond return and Stanbic IBTC is a leading end-to-end Fund aimed at supporting efforts to close the risks dynamics, the Fund will make investments financial services organisation in the country, infrastructure gap by linking investors with long that have positive multiplier effects particularly with subsidiaries offering a broad range of term capital to infrastructure project developers in the areas of social and environmental benefits. financial solutions. How well has Stanbic and sponsors. The fund will provide long term It will ensure sustainability is at the core of its IBTC Asset Management supported clients capital to project sponsors and ensure that the philosophy and these are themes that resonate through the other solutions offered by the investment terms enable development of projects, within the investment community. Group? rather than stifling them. As an Investment Manager, one of our objectives Considering that inflation rate is signifi- is to be at the cutting edge of innovation, be You are targeting N20 billion for the first cantly high now, what type of returns do you thought leaders and prioritise collaboration so tranche, which will have a term of up to expect would motivate investors considering that we can optimally serve our clients and ensure 12 years. How many tranches are planned the Fund? their expectations are met. We believe we are and at what intervals? We have observed that safety of capital is as doing this within the ambit of existing regulations, The first tranche is for N20 billion and will important as returns. Our objective is to deliver and we will continue to seek optimal ways of be invested in energy, healthcare, and com- long term returns above the comparable govern- leveraging Group strengths and capabilities for munications. We also have a robust pipeline ment benchmark which theoretically is the safest the benefit of our clients of deals in various stages and as we conclude Olugbenjo long-term investment option in the market, while those deals and get approvals, we will raise ensuring that risk is within a reasonable threshold. A couple of years ago, you achieved Assets additional tranches. We expect that about seven Considering the volatile economic and We believe that our ability to consistently deliver under Management (AuM) for your various tranches will get us fully invested. investment environment due largely to the on this mandate will encourage investors to come funds of around N600 billion, highlighting coronavirus, do you feel the appetite for a on board. Stanbic IBTC Asset Management’s industry It is easy to deduce the rationale behind Fund like this exists? Stanbic IBTC Asset Management manages leadership. What is the total size of your introduction of the Fund, given that infra- The pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of some of the highest performing mutual funds AuM now? structure development remains a challenge economies across the world and Nigeria is no in Nigeria, including the newly introduced The total AuM is currently in excess of N780 in the country. Can you shed more light different. However, it also provides an opportunity Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Fixed Income Fund billion and this is spread across retail, high net on the likely sectors and projects the Fund for new areas of growth for these economies. For and the Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund. Your worth individuals (HNIs) and institutional will be invested in? instance, the United States of America is negotiating pedigree in funds management is not in doubt. investors. Recent data puts Nigeria’s infrastructure stock $1.2 trillion infrastructure plan and there are Can you briefly describe some of the milestones at 25 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) other countries that have announced plans or are the company has accomplished and what you What is your assessment of the investment compared with 70 per cent which is the interna- developing their plans. These initiatives will bode envisage is the growth prospect for the newly environment in the country as we gradually tional benchmark. Average annual budgeted well for investors as they will bring to the fore introduced Infrastructure Fund? put the coronavirus problems behind us? infrastructure spend is about 10 per cent of many more opportunities for investments beyond Stanbic IBTC Asset Management has a total of Unfortunately, the investment environment may annual requirement, with $3 trillion required the traditional investment propositions. For the 16 Collective Investment Schemes (CIS), which still be characterised by uncertainty even after the to close the infrastructure gap over the next Stanbic IBTC Infrastructure Fund in particular, is the highest pool managed by any Securities pandemic as there are pending structural matters 30 years. These data references highlight the we believe investors are indeed waiting for a and Exchange (SEC) registered Fund Manager in that need to be addressed to unlock a period of need for urgent and concerted efforts at solving fund such as this and there is appetite in the Nigeria. The suite of Funds that we offer provides sustained growth and development. So, while the problem. We also know that government market for an infrastructure-dedicated fund. diverse options to investors with different risk bringing the pandemic under control will be earnings have come under some constraints in appetites and these products are also suitable for positive for the investment environment, it isn’t recent times, hence why as market operators, Why should investors choose to invest different market conditions, allowing investors a magic wand. Regardless, recent efforts such as we need to support innovative solutions that in the Stanbic IBTC Infrastructure Fund freely rotate between strategies, depending on the seeding of the InfraCorp initiative with N1 can help to solve some of these problems. The as opposed to other options in the market? the market outlook. In addition, three of the trillion InfraCorp by the trio of Central Bank of Fund will enable infrastructure investments Stanbic IBTC Infrastructure Fund has been Funds have assets over N100 billion which is a Nigeria (CBN), Nigerian Sovereign Investment across core infrastructure sectors such as energy floated by Stanbic IBTC Asset Management, testament to the confidence that investors have Authority and African Finance Corporation, as (think entire power ecosystem including gas an entity with deep investment management in our organisation. The growth prospect for the well as the Highway Development Management generation and distribution infrastructure), experience spanning more than two decades. Infrastructure Fund is based on an optimal mix Initiative of the Federal Ministry of Works and telecommunications, healthcare, water treatment, Our focus on meeting the needs of our investors of opportunity and skill. Opportunity in the sense Housing - which seeks to concession 12 major waste management, and transportation (road, have made Nigerians trust us with their capital of infrastructure gap that exists in the market, roads across the country - are steps in the right rail, ports), and so on. and we do not take that trust for granted. It is and skill of the Fund Manager in providing direction. Examining Fidelity Bank’s Non-oil Export Businesses’ Support Oluchi Chibuzor Some of these key interventions by the bank ship with the Lagos Business School (LBS) include expansion of capacities in strategic and the Nigerian Export Promotion Council With Nigeria battling the twin challenges of value-chain segments (rice, dairy, poultry, oil (NEPC), initiated the Export Management over-dependence on crude oil earnings and palm, cocoa, etc.) that are key to narrowing Programme EMP. dwindling revenues, several organisations are food security gaps and enhancing foreign An intense and hands-on export management now exploring opportunities in the non-oil exchange earnings. programme, designed to equip Nigerian export- export sector of the economy. In 2019 alone, the bank made available ers, regulators, financiers and policymakers Fidelity Bank Plc is however taking the pole over N32.7 billion in credits to businesses with the practical knowledge and business position in supporting these entrepreneurs operating in strategic sectors, including rice, management skills required to compete through its agribusiness and non-oil export dairy, poultry, oil palm, cocoa, etc. effectively in the global export market. banking franchise. These financing solutions helped facilitate The EMP is open to both aspiring and According to data from The Policy Devel- the movement of these businesses up the experienced exporters exploring different opment Facility (PDF) Bridge Programme, production value-chain through the financ- courses such as Overview of Nigeria’s Export Nigeria’s dependency on oil exports for ing of forward integrated components to Performance, Export Readiness Imperative government revenue (80%) and foreign facilitate transition from primary production & Assessment, Select Export Business Case exchange earnings (87%) has long been at to value-added products, hence adding sig- Studies, Nigerian Exportable Items & Locations, odds with the sector’s contribution of just Onyeali-Ikpe nificant value to the GDP while providing Incentives for Export, Domestic Policies and 8.33 per cent to the country’s gross domestic employment opportunities. Some of these Export Institutions, Export Market Acces- product (GDP). with the end results of driving job creation, financing solution offerings include: the agric sibility – Opportunities, Entry Aspects and No thanks to the global oil shock triggered improving industrialisation, increasing GDP project finance, input finance for primary Guidelines for Exporting to Different Markets by the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigeria’s economic performance, and playing a crucial role in production, produce aggregation finance, and so much more. vulnerability is glaring as GDP growth declined the process of economic growth. equipment finance, distributor finance and Beyond financing, the bank has leveraged by 6.1 per cent and 3.6 per cent in the second Fidelity Bank has, over the years, built strong flexible collateral arrangements (up to 75% its thought leadership position and strong and third quarters of 2020. partnerships across the broad spectrum of credit risk guarantee). advisory capacity in the agribusiness and It is therefore no longer a policy choice but economic actors in the agribusiness space to These activities have been recognised and non-oil exports space to help businesses bridge a germane initiative for Nigeria to explore drive their agribusiness financing interventions applauded by operators, funding partners capacity gaps and enhance the value of their other avenues to make the economy viable to micro and last-mile levels. and all other actors in the agribusiness space. business propositions. rather than depending solely on crude oil They successfully leveraged strategic partner- At the Bankers’ Committee meeting of Fidelity Bank continues to lead the industry for foreign earnings. ships with the CBN and Development Finance December 2019, the bank was awarded in this regard by making significant contribu- As a foresighted institution driven by Institutions (DFIs) under various industry second position in Sustainable Agriculture tions, all geared towards the diversification excellence and sustainability, Fidelity Bank targeted intervention funding programmes Transactions of the year. of the Nigerian economy. This is in tune with has since made giant strides in this regard to enhance access to credit for seven eligible Taking their resolve to build sustainable their avowed desire to be number one in by giving optimal attention to non-oil sectors players in the agribusiness and non-oil exports export capabilities for Nigerian businesses every market they serve and to make financial such as agriculture and the SME sectors - space. even further, Fidelity Bank Plc, in partner- services easy and accessible to Nigerians. THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 31

BUSINESSWORLD PERSPECTIVE

Profitability of Green Buildings

Mark Chieshe Although the electricity supply is generally unstable in Nigeria, when it is available it eats s the world remodels towards up a huge chunk of worker’s income. a carbon-free economy, green Even so, the country is set to move forward buildings are fast gaining global with plans to deregulate the market and make acceptance and adoption as the pricing more competitive and reflective of cost to future-proof standard for the deepen private sector investment. For investors, Aconstruction industry. expanding offerings to include climate-smart This is because of their capacity to mitigate products with utility savings would be a major the negative impact of construction work on attraction for occupants and tenants. the environment. For commercial and mortgage lenders in Nigeria, Studies show that the conventional building this could take the form of developing green sector accounts for about 28 percent of greenhouse financial products around construction finance, gas emissions, 35 percent of energy usage; 60 mortgages, and home improvement loans. per cent of the electricity for heating, cooling, Another key benefit of going green for Nigerian and lighting; as well as 25 percent of global market players is risk mitigation. The global water and 40 per cent of materials extracted. rally around the adoption of climate-friendly On the other hand, green buildings incorporate solutions makes the transition to a carbon economy climate-smart practices and technologies that inevitable. Countries and corporate leaders have enable them to use key resources like energy, set targets for zero emissions and both local water, materials, and land more responsibly and international governments are establishing than traditional buildings. systems and regulations that would eventually This includes energy-efficient lighting and make building green the norm. Moreover, in a cooling, shading, natural ventilation, and carbon-free economy, inefficient resource assets low-flow water fixtures. As a result, they are are most likely to lose their profit edge. able to leave a lighter carbon footprint, reduce EDGE Trailblazers in Nigeria operations and maintenance costs that lead to The good news for Nigeria is that there lower utility bills and more comfortable and are some notable financial institutions and healthy spaces for occupants. patterns, and algorithms for predicting the most cent higher occupancy rates and higher rental developers who have recognised the business Aside from climate mitigation, there is a accurate performance results. income of up to eight per cent. value of building green and have blazed the compelling business case for building green. EDGE sets clear benchmarks for its green Through creative product development and trail in adopting EDGE certification for their Green buildings present a solid investment certification program, which it administers marketing, Nigerian developers can leverage green building portfolios. opportunity for smart investors who are keen through reputable third parties. To qualify for the utility savings and other associated benefits From championing a new breed of climate-smart to lead a profitable change in the built industry. EDGE certification, a building must achieve of living in a green house, such as comfortable affordable residential housing, premium office Banks and developers can leverage the unique a 20 per cent reduction in energy, water, and and well-ventilated spaces to expand their client accommodation to innovative student hostel resource efficiencies arising from a more intelligent embodied energy in materials compared to a base using innovative product offerings that accommodation, early adopters of EDGE in and environmentally sensitive use of resources to conventional ly built building. guarantee higher and quicker sales and increased Nigeria are breaking new grounds and leading expand and differentiate their product offerings, In Nigeria, EDGE certification is offered by tenant income. the country’s drive to a new era where building build brand equity, and gain a competitive edge Sintali-SGS. This has brought transparency to the A top market segment to explore is green green would be the norm. over their peers in a fast-changing industry. definition of what constitutes a green building, commercial buildings targeting international The most recent example is Greenage Develop- The market potential for investors is huge a quantitative approach to resource efficiency and upscale local businesses and occupants ment Managers. In May, Greenage , a private globally. International Finance Corporation measurements, and the factoring of critical local who are educated and climate change sensitive. equity-driven fund and provider of on-campus (IFC) estimates green building to represent a data and variables in the design of buildings This class of occupants, as evidence shows from student and faculty housing projects announced $24.7 trillion investment opportunity across for optimal performance. other climes, understand the broad benefits of a long-term commitment to IFC’s EDGE. emerging markets by 2030, one of the biggest With EDGE, investors can establish baseline living in climate-smart and comfortable spaces The company aims to transform the student of the decade. costs and make projections on profitability of and possess the capacity to pay a premium in housing sector by delivering purpose-built, The residential construction component alone their green portfolios. Data sourced from own- rents or outright sale prices. resource-efficient hostel accommodation in is estimated at $15.7 trillion. Around the world, ers/occupants of EDGE-certified buildings from higher institutions across Nigeria using a $150m leading construction companies are partnering over 170 countries show that although green Leveraging the Green Advantage sustainable housing fund. The fund commits to with financial institutions to gain market shares buildings generally incur a slight premium EDGE also offers market players in Nigeria developing 100,000 bed spaces across Nigeria in their regions. over conventional ones, the benefits over the the opportunity to chart a new, profitable, and over 10 years, with an initial ticket size of $50 At the early stages, establishing what constitutes life cycle of the property outstrip the increased more climate-friendly path towards tackling million for its first phase of delivery, which a green building posed a huge challenge to initial cost. An additional two percent Capex the rising housing deficit by exploring more began with the groundbreaking development investors. This was understandable. While the produces savings of over ten times the value innovative financing options. of 500-1,000 bed spaces at Veritas University, benefits of building green to the environment of the initial investment over the lifetime of In 2015, a World Bank study estimated Bwari Abuja. were well established, the metrics for measuring a certified building by decreasing operational that Nigeria had a 17 million housing unit The development at Veritas University will the “green” credentials of buildings were not costs by up to 37 per cent. deficit. The report stated that fixing the be followed in quick succession by other yet standardised, leading to confusion. With advancements and technological in- gap would require the annual production engagements to be delivered by Greenage at This has changed over the years. The green novation, the additional cost of going green is of about 700,000 housing units annually at the Arthur Jarvis University in Calabar and the building trend has matured in depth and scope projected to reduce and eventually cancel out the cost of N3.5 million each. About N60 University of Nigeria, Nsukka Enugu, among and the advent of smart certification systems by over time. All these further justify the business trillion was estimated as the expenditure other targeted locations. reputable third parties not only provide banks, case for sustainable buildings. outlay. Another example is EchoStone, an EDGE developers, and business leaders with a clear What this Means for Banks, Developers At the time, Nigeria had a population of Champion that plans to build 100,000 EDGE- definition of what makes a building green, but Like their counterparts in other established about 180 million. Today, with the increasing certified homes across Nigeria over the next also an easy, transparent, and scientific platform markets like Mexico, China, South Africa, Ghana, population size and increasing urbanization, five years. In February, EchoStone delivered 252 that helps optimize designs, establish cost, and and Kenya, Nigerian banks and developers experts estimate the figure to be over 22 units of affordable homes in Idale Badagry in project utility savings over the lifetime of the have a chance to define the future outlook of million units and the cost above N100 trillion. partnership with the Lagos State Government. asset. a climate-smart built environment that is good for This is no doubt a huge challenge. Yet, it The green homes incorporate resource-efficient The EDGE Advantage the environment and good for business. EDGE provides a huge opportunity for forward- features that deliver 53 per cent energy savings, 42 A good example is EDGE. An innovation of offers a unique opportunity for innovation and looking investors, banks, and developers per cet water savings and 35 per cent embodied IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, EDGE strategic partnerships to differentiate their brands, who on their own, or in collaboration with energy in materials savings. (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) build climate-smart real estate portfolios that government at the national and state levels Accelerating the growth of EDGE certified provides a measurable way for design teams to reflect global trends and meet the demands of a are involved in the process of delivering affordable buildings would help Nigerian market players optimize their designs to achieve certification more educated and environment-sensitive market. housing. By building green and using EDGE, they to re-define the built environment, build more as “green”. Doing so would help them increase incomes and could leverage the benefits and investment potential sustainable product offerings, and boost their It includes a cloud-based platform to calculate grow their businesses sustainably. Global trends of resource-efficient buildings unlock finance from incomes while helping the country to reduce the cost of going green and utility savings. Fast, show that certified green buildings command international development partners. This includes greenhouse emissions. This is good for their smart, affordable, and inclusive, EDGE is powered a higher value than conventional buildings. exploring green bonds, green securitizations and brands and good for the planet. by a state-of-the-art engine that possesses reliable This includes higher sale premiums of up to green credit facilities potentially reducing their city-based climate and cost data, consumption 31 per cent and faster sale times, up to 23 per cost of capital. t$IJFTIFXSPUFJOGSPN"CVKB Institute Harps on Skills for Hospitality Industry

Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi hospitality trades in order to be and self-sustaining after the service the training the opportunity to practice professionally, proficiently empowering youth corps members engaged in the sector after their year in the face of growing utilise the knowledge and skills and profitably in which ever trade with skills and knowledge that The Director General of the compulsory service year. unemployment in the country. they acquire to better their lots. they choose to take up after their will make them functional and National Institute for Hospital- Kangiwa who made the call Jigawa State Commissioner of Alhaji Ibrahim Baba, Head service period. useful members of the society ity and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), through the Director, Media and Commerce and Tourism, repre- of Department of Hospitality of The State Director of the after the completion of the one Alhaji Nura Sani Kangiwa has Public Relations of the Institute, sented by the Director of Tourism NIHOTOUR and Team Leader National Youths Service Corps year mandatory service to their admonished youths to seek for Ahmed Mohammed Sule, at the in the Ministry, Alhaji M. Ringim of the training programme said (NYSC) of Jigawa State who spoke fatherland. knowledge-based skills to enhance opening of a one-week training for said Jigawa State was appreciative the selected youth corps members through an official of the State He then called on the chosen their professional proficiency in NYSC members in Jigawa State, of the choice of the state for the should consider themselves lucky NYSC said the Commission would NYSC members to be attentive hospitality trades. said the training was organised training. as his Department is fully prepared continue to encourage as well as in acquiring all the skills needed He also urged NYSC members to prepare the corp members to He noted that the state govern- to impact on them the best of skills, seek for partnership with relevant to practice any hospitality trade to consider taking up one of the be self-employed, self-dependent ment would give beneficiaries of they need in hospitality trades to Institutes such as NIHOTOUR in of their choice. 32 THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ

BUSINESSWORLD PERSPECTIVE Enhancing Capacity of Nigeria’s Legislators Investing in Lubricants Production, Packaging

Caroline Lucas Some Quotes from Faculties Undoubtedly, the TEXEM’s programme content TEXEM remains a leading innovative consulting was rich, educative, enlightening, and thought- firm that seeks to offer an unmatched learning provoking. The attendants not only got a chance platform to African leaders. Its services help to learn the art of achieving goals effectively and organisations achieve their goals, optimise their impact and thrive. efficiently, but they also had memorable interac- This is what the just successfully concluded tions. Here is what faculties had to say after the TEXEM capacity development programme for programme: Nigerian Senators and Members of the House “An interesting day with Nigerian politicians. of Representatives achieved. As leaders, legislators TEXEM performs a valuable developmental function too need to acquire the right skills that can enable in connecting U.K. experts with senior African them to perform their roles efficiently and effectively. executives for exchanges that enrich both,” John Godwin Uba the bulk share of 35 per cent. Programmes organised by TEXEM mainly focus The lubricating oil and grease are one of the on leadership, corporate governance, successful Buck Former British Ambassador to Portugal & The impact of COVID-19 pandemic and most important sectors of the petrochemical implementation of change, enhancing performance/ Former Director of BG. resultant Lockdown on the Nigerian Economy industry. The size of lubricating oil and grease workplace productivity, and winning strategies. All “I thoroughly enjoyed working with the delegates and the entire world has changed the types market in Nigeria is estimated at over N900 these topics are very vital for legislators since they from the National Assembly. They were engaged, and nature of investments to embark upon. billion and it is growing at around 3.5 per are strategic leaders and bastions of democracy. thoughtful, eager to learn and great fun. TEXEM We have taken time to look at those viable cent annually. The five-day TEXEM programme with the theme, and profitable investments to make after The choice of site for this project was mainly “Optimising Legislative Impact” saw legislators organisation was very efficient, and the day proceeded smoothly. It was a pleasure to work the COVID-19 Pandemic and lockdowns in consumer driven. The major consumers of challenge assumptions, network, share best Nigeria. this product are to the extent of 80 per cent practices, and brainstorm on inclusive growth and with the company and the delegates,” Dr Rachel One of the sectors to invest into is the plus, resident in the urban areas and mostly nation-building strategies held at Birmingham, UK Aron, Former British Ambassador to Belgium and oil and gas sector. Under this sector we see health sector. Besides, the fundamental business between 5th -9th of July. This capacity programme Chair of various boards. investing into production of lubricant as a infrastructures are more readily available in included a trip to Shakespeare’s birthplace and other “It is a pleasure to work with senior executives very lucrative one. the urban areas. Such facilities as electricity, exciting activities. Illustrious opinion shapers from The importance of engine oil cannot be over good road system, experience manpower etc leading citadels and eminent corporate executives and leading government figures in this dynamic and engaging programme designed by TEXEM, emphasized. Oil is the life of any engine. Its are better established in the urban areas. shared their experiences and knowledge with the main role is to provide lubrication to moving Though one can locate the project at any legislators during the period. The intention for UK. The organisation and support for delegates as parts and transfer heat. It keeps the moving parts of the country, we advise that it is bringing together such a team of faculties was they engage in their learning journey is excellent. parts from grinding against each other causing located close the market and raw materials. to make sure that the legislators got world-class “The opportunity to share perspectives and wear and damage. The project can take off in a land space of 2 insights. ideas to address the challenges of working in The demand for engine oil in Nigeria is plots of land. The factory building must have As usual, all programmes at TEXEM add value an uncertain world is unparalleled,” Prof.Paul from vehicle owners, power generator owners, five (5) major rooms namely Cloak Room, and change lives. That explains why the organisation Griffiths, Professor of Practice, Products & Services, industries, tricycles and motorcyclists. Engine Packaging Material Room, Production Room, remains the forerunner of helping organisations oil is used by both petrol and diesel engine Finished Product Room, Raw Material Room. win and assisting leaders become better strategists Ashridge Executive Education at Hult International oil, though in different grades. The petrol The factory will be located where there is and problem solvers in the current challenging, Business School, said. engine oil are used in serving passenger car no human residence within the compound. disruptive, fast paced and competitive operating (light cars) while diesel engine oil are used The production process for engine oil landscape. What Next for Nigerian Legislators? in servicing generators (small and big) and involves procurement of base oil from re- As TEXEM has always done, the conclusion also for heavy cars (diesel cars). There are fineries; the procured base oil is now filled The TEXEM methodology of this programme marked the end of an im- still grades of diesel engine oil (mono grade into the blending plant after which additives For impactful pedagogical sessions, TEXEM and multi grade) mono grades are commonly such as detergents, anti-corrosive chemicals, utilised its tested and proven approach during pactful and life-changing learning experience. used in Nigeria, although people are now dispersants are added. Heating and agitation the entire capacity development programme from As was evident during the closing ceremony, beginning to appreciate multi grades. The simultaneously take place to achieve blending day the first day to the fifth day. The programme all of those who attended are already looking viscosity of the oil is a function of the grade. of the oil with the chemicals. comprised case studies, a boat ride, a visit to Cadbury forward to implementing what has been learnt Statistics available confirms that the total After blending, the product is allowed to World and presentation by the Founding Director and transforming their organisation and the nation. world demand for lubricating oils is about 50 cool down before being filled into various of this iconic organisation; games and interactive billion liters per annum (60 per cent automo- containers such as drums and kegs. daily assessments. Indeed, the programme wouldn’t have come at a better time than now when the world is fighting tive, 40 per cent industrial). However, the The required equipment and machines is TEXEM’s methodology harnesses the quadruple industrial lubricants account for more than Lube blending machine, oil filling machine, cap benefit of improved engagement, enhanced motiva- a pandemic, and Nigeria is facing socio-economic 70 per cent of the total gross earnings and screwing machine, conveyor, and farm tank tion, optimised fun, and stimulated concentration crises and insecurity. Notably, at this critical time profit margin globally. with total of 20,000liters, standby generator, to improve learning performance and classroom and as ever, the role of legislators as leaders who In Africa, Nigeria is said to be the third delivery vans, interconnecting pipelines and dynamics while still striving to meet the learning aspire to champion; accountability, good governance largest consumer of lubricating oils amounting finance. goals. TEXEM used case studies on the programme to about 700 million liters (1 per cent of the The plant will cost about N38.5 million as it provides a simulated real-life situation that and inclusive growth is critical and their actions influence many. world’s total demand), with a gross earnings excluding land and building, but including stimulates delegates into making well-informed of N150 billion in 2013 and over N450.37Billion machinery, generator and working capital decisions. Therefore, with the right skills and result- as the end of Q1, 2021. requirement, which includes base oil stock. Also, case studies were utilised during the oriented mindset, senators and members of The cumulative assets base of the blend- There some legal and operational licenses programme to encourage the Federal legislators the House of Representatives can help solve ing plants is about N20 billion, generating that supposed to be obtained for smooth to enhance their; cognitive skills, improve their societal problems and effectively lead innova- about N45 billion profit margins in 2013 operations. All formulations and specifications analytical rigour, evaluation skills, and better tion even during tough times. Commenting on and N120billion, generating about 300billion of products to be manufactured should be manage ambiguity. his experience from the training, Sen. Ibrahim profit margin in the Q1, 2021. forwarded to the Standards Organization of TEXEM’s approach of using a range of learning Furthermore, it has been estimated that 75 Nigeria (SON) for consideration and approval. tools comprising of discussion, corporate trips and Hassan Hadejia said: “I like the qualities of the per cent of the total need of lubricating oils Samples of all blended batches should games improved; interpersonal skills, decision- faculties, they are first class faculties that know is produced locally while the remaining 25 be retained for a period of not less than making capabilities, communication and team what they are doing as well as the flexibility per cent are specialized products imported three months before disposal and be made spirit. That’s exactly what the legislative impact of the programme by the marketing companies into the country. available on demand for any desired qual- programme sought to achieve, and participants “We are encouraged to participate and being The Lubricant Oil Manufacturing industry ity verification test within this mandatory say it, indeed, achieved it. assessed really kept us on our toes. Our visit to produces petroleum-based lubricant and period of storage. There was a trip to Shakespeare’s birthplace on the Upon completion of the construction of Cadbury World and Shakespeare birth place grease products, such as blended motor first day, group activities daily, and all presentations oils, brake-fluids, transmission fluids and blending or recycling plant, an application by the highly experienced faculties utilised coaching, were practical teachings I liked the way the lubricating machinery grease. The industry for license to operate the plant should be audio-visuals, role-play, and relevant examples to faculties went beyond legislation and went down is heavily dependent on crude oil prices. forwarded to the Department of Petroleum stimulate self-reflection and encourage personal to general politics. The teachings wasn’t just There are four (4) types of lubricants: Resources (DPR). Details on all legal and development plans. The key themes covered during theoretical there were role plays.” Also, Hon. Oil, Grease, Penetrating Lubricants, and operational requirements will be given. the training were leadership for sustainable success, Dry Lubricants. The two (2) most common strategic leadership in an unknown tomorrow, Akin Alabi said, “The case studies, interactive and quiz segments gets you fully engaged. The lubricants dealing with on daily are oil Implementations good governance and the importance of public and grease. For details on comprehensive & Bankable participation and civic engagement during the interactive sessions makes you engaged and Major products of oil refineries includes feasibility studies, Business Plan; procurement implementation of projects by legislators and the engrossed and in line increases assimilation asphalt, liquefied petroleum gas, diesel fuel, & installations of strong and durable machines, executive arm of government. and learning. “The programme has increased lubricating oils, fuel oils, gasoline, kerosene, internationally acceptable packaging methods, our leadership quotient with what we have paraffin wax, tar, petrochemicals. Lubricants Export markets and funding arrangements Expected Benefits (engine oil) are products of petroleum and Recruitment & Training of manpower The ultimate goal of the capacity development learnt and gathered from the experiences of the instructors which will be applied to refinery. The raw materials required for please contact the writer. We assist in reviving programme was to benefit the legislators whose the production of Lubricants are products of death manufacturing/ industrial projects. active role and exemplary leadership will enhance real live situations when we get back to of oil refineries which are readily available Some prospective investors would prefer to nation-building via better accountability of the Nigeria.” Also, Hon. Olumide A. Ojerinde in Nigeria. It can be sourced from virgin go to internet and copy pre-feasibility reports executive arm of government and ultimately said, “The best part of the programme is the material or through recycling. done in India or other parts of the world. enshrine good governance. Whether the leaders are interactive session and the scenarios being The Lube market consists of two major That type of report can never lead you in born or made, effective development programmes discussed are real time situations that reflects segments, automotive and industrial, having terms of knowledge and sourcing of your directly impact their daily roles and the outcomes on our day to day lives. a market share of 70 per cent and 30 per funds. The reports are not in the business of their projects. cent, respectively. Most of the competition environment with Nigeria, so it could be Indeed, the 5-day programme was a perfect “The most interesting part is the teaching is crowding into the first category. In the misleading. For details contact us mix of well-planned activities facilitated by part, the tutors are just too great that I had no automotive segment, while cars, Generators world-renowned scholars and executives whose choice than to adopt them as mentors. I have been and two or three wheelers segment accounts t6CBJTPGUIF(MPCBM5SVTU$POTVMUJOH contribution to the area of good governance and able to identify where my lapses are and make for 65 per cent of the market, diesel operated BOEDBOCFSFBDIFEWJBVCBHPEXJO!ZBIPP strategic leadership is exemplary. a change in my leadership skills.” engines, trucks and other heavy vehicles have DPN THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 33

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L-R: Delta Governor, Senator Dr. (left) and Delta State Resident Electoral Commissioner L-R: PR and Communications Manager, Cars45, Bemigho Awala; Creative Director, Ogilvy Africa, Nigeria, (REC), Pastor Monday Udoh Tom during the visit of some INEC officias to the Governor in Government House, Jolomi Awala; and Marketing Manager, Cars45, Ayomide Eklu at the monthly creative learning series Asaba…recently initiative, Unboxed which held at the Cars45 Learning Centre in Ikeja, Lagos…recently

L-R: Deputy Governor, Lagos State, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Speaker, Lagos House of Assembly, Dr Mudasiru Obasa and Chairman, All Progressive Congress (APC) Lagos State, Alhaji Tunde L-R: Commander, Operation Safe Haven, , Maj-Gen, Ibrahim Ali (left) and his Deputy, Emmanuel Balogun during the official flag-off of campaigns for the Local Government Elections at APC Secretariat in Ado during the Commander’s first media briefing with Journalists in Jos…recently Lagos...recently

L-R: Head of Human Resources for West Africa Shalina Health care. Mr. Amit Nagpal; Vice president,West L-R: Director General, Industrial Training Fund (ITF) Mr Joseph Ari, presenting a souvenir to the INEC Resident Africa Shalina, Mr.Arun Raj; and Head of Human Resources for Nigeria, Mrs. Amina Akinsunmbo during the Electoral Commissioner, Plateau State Hussaini Pai, during the visit of the Commissioner to ITF in Jos... company’s Business strategy and culture programme in Lagos..recently recently

L-R: Senior Business Manager, Airtel Nigeria, Oluranti Owoborode; Head, Corporate Social Responsibility, Chioma Okolie; Vice President, Corporate Communication & Corporate Social Responsibility, Emeka Oparah; Head, Corporate Communications, Erhumu Bayagbon and Regional Director, Lagos, Olusina Adegoke during the Airtel Touching Lives Season 6 Media Launch in Lagos…recently PHOTO: ABIODUN AJALA 34 THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ,ͰͮͰͯ EDUCATION Etiam/Samsung: Empowering Nigerian Youths through ICT Vocational Education to Reduce Unemployment, Insecurity Human capital development of youths that comprise 60 per cent of the over 200 million Nigerian population through ICT vocational training has been identified as one of the strategies to curb unemployment and insecurity in the country. The Chairman of Etiam Innovation Systems, Mr. Mark-Anthony Nduka-Eze, explained the benefits toChris Asika

tiam is a technology solutions company engaged in education technology development with governments in the public sector, as well as with corporate entities delivering solutions suchE as engineering academies to train youths in all aspects of vocational training, ICT learning resource centres to train the trainers such as teachers, and mobile learning tablet programmes to schools and tertiary institutions. The company recognises unemployment as a major challenge to stability of life in Africa, particularly among the growing youth popula- tion, resulting in youth restiveness, cultism, armed robbery, kidnapping and migration, among several other vices. The desire to reduce unemployment gave birth to Etiam Innovation Systems. “We are a diversified technology and service firm involved in technology advisory of turnkey projects using technology to promote education and agriculture. Etiam has partnered Samsung to promote smart education and has built over nine ICT training centres in Nigeria. “These One of the ICT labs built by Etiam Nduka-Eze vocational ICT skills training will accelerate youth development initiatives and make late 90s in the USA, I was working with an ICT “This will reduce youth flight to the western by the invasion of the COVID-19 pandemic Nigerian workforce globally competitive. The company as an immigration lawyer and my job world which is creating a lot of social problems which would have enabled the project to go end-to-end programmes will be delivered via was to ensure that the ICT software and hard in Nigeria, this is what informed my decision far. The project started in 2015 Samsung and ICT academies set up in the local communities ware engineers that we were bringing to the to return to Nigeria to focus on how this Indian Etiam were committed to rolling out these and their institutions to boost entrepreneurship USA are able to acquire the relevant immigration experience can be duplicated in Nigeria among projects all over the country. They would have education and reduce unemployment, thereby status because the country was not producing the youth population and I approached Samsung, solved the problem of the children having creating wealth among the teeming youth sufficient software and hardware engineers and I travelled to the headquarters and presented to stay at home during the pandemic with population,” the Chairman of Etiam Innovation technology is driving the economy globally. As my proposal that Nigeria has a huge population e- learning platforms but did not get adequate Systems, Mr. Mark-Anthony Nduka-Eze said. at that time India was producing more than and what they are doing is selling high end support from relevant government agencies Nduka-Eze began his career as an International 600,000 software/hardware engineers more products to less than 5 per cent of the Nigerian they partnered with.” immigration attorney with the International than the whole world combined. population and they are spending over 30 billion He said learning using technology is a Rescue Committee in San Jose, California. As “My company had a branch office and dollars on Research and Development (R&D) 24- hour thing, it should not be limited to a law graduate of the University of London, I played a central role of going over there but the Chinese are the ones benefitting from physical classrooms. He added that Nigeria England. He studied International Relations to relate with the ones that can adapt with their hard work by producing cheap version has over 15 million children out of school, at the University of Warwick, England and the western world because India was able to technology and selling across Nigeria. as well as displaced children who can learn completed a programme in Immigration Law at develop their economy and reduce poverty by “So it is very important that what happened were ever they are at any time, this can only the Golden Gate Law School in San Francisco, setting up colleges of technology on almost in South Korea in terms of using technology be done by using online learning. California. He was also a research assistant at every street, train young people at government’s to capture the children young in primary and “We have in the past also rolled out a smart the Immigrant Legal and Resource Centre in expense, meanwhile these young people in secondary schools is also duplicated in Nigeria education mobile online education in Kaduna San Francisco, California and a member of the India usually earn over 20,000 dollars a year because when they do that, they will capture for secondary schools and NNPC. Those were New York Bar and an executive member of in India, but when they come to the USA, the Nigerian population young and Samsung the funding partnership with mobile 10,000 Africa Bar Association. He is a member of the they earn between 100 and 150,000 dollars a technology will become acceptable in Nigeria education tabs to secondary schools in Kaduna American Immigration Lawyers Association, as year as at that time.” and that what I would like is for them to which also attracted funds for expansion from well as a member of the Immigration Lawyers Nduka-Eze noted that as a result of this, India partner with me in using their technology to the World Bank in 2017. Government should Practitioner’s Association of England. He has was able to lift a lot of people out of poverty drive learning education and skills acquisition,” not look at their limited financial capacities, the also headed several top positions as a business through job creation and that in turn created Nduka-Eze said. key is global partnership (just like we partnered and legal advisor in telecommunications industry wealth for the Indian government because According to him, there are three approaches: with Samsung) provide the credibility for finding in Nigeria and beyond. the young people end up repatriating money Digital virtual education, which entails the agencies to provide the funding to expand He is on the board of several companies back because their lifestyle salary has greatly provision of tablets embedded with educational the roll out projects. “The south-south govern- and currently the CEO of Etiam Innovasion improved. “This brought about the boom of contents in primary and secondary schools; ment after a period of time have reconvened Systems, a Samsung and Huawei Technologies Indian economy. The restrictions of number setting up ICT teacher training centres to train seeing the importance of smart education in partner promoting smart education projects of migrants to USA also brought about under- the trainers. “Currently we have set up centres the secondary school because of the COVID in several states in Nigeria. employment in the USA government who has across Nigeria, five of them in the south-south, experience and have decided to continue the The nine ICT centres built by Etiam we’re jobs but do not have enough people who have one in Abeokuta, Ogun State, one in Imo State, project through the BRACED Commission donated to the host states, including the Federal enough skills to man these jobs.” one in Abuja. Once you capture the children it as originally agreed and recalled Etiam my Capital Territory, Abuja, Ogun, Delta, Edo, Imo, He said because of this, American ICT becomes very important that you encourage the company as the implementation partner and Akwa Ibom and govern- companies like Microsoft, CISCO, IBM, HP teachers to adopt technology in their teaching we are now at various level of discussion and ments. Several youths have also been trained and all the other big ICT companies decided methods.” arrangement to get the latest technology now on ICT vocational skills thereby boosting youth to build branches (campuses) in India so that The other approach is the Samsung ICT they continue the roll out. employment in Nigeria. As the promoter of instead of struggling with immigration, they Academy, which is set up to train youths in all “I am using this medium to appeal to all the Samsung smart mobile learning project, Nd will ensure that half of the people that they aspects of Samsung products and engineering. internal and interactively funding agencies such was a technical adviser to the BRACED Com- recruit stay back in India but they are earning “Samsung as you know has different products as NNPC, local content board, the NDDC and all mission, an agency set up by the governors about $70,000. which include TV, refrigerator, kitchen products, other agencies that have a mandate to promote of the south-south states of Nigeria, aimed “The US companies were saving money but tablets, computers, and the youths are trained education and learning, as well as training of at harmonising and coordinating the oil rich at the same time, the Indian economy was to acquire the skills to repair these equipment. vocational ICT skills like coding, programming, states’ policies and the promotion of economic booming. The training takes about a year and they end cloud computing, artificial intelligence, data cooperation and integration. He is also the “This was clearly not only to create employ- up having job offers all over West Africa even science, web development etc, to focus on Chairman of Trade, Investment and Business ment to the youths and vibrant generation in while still undergoing training,” he added. youths to acquire the most sought after ICT Immigration of the African Bar Association and India, but also to boost the Indian economy and Nduka-Eze has worked in collaboration with vocational skills. You can be in Nigeria yet is currently working with the Nigeria is very similar in terms of demography the state governors which serves a pilot/roll employed in America once you have this skills. and other international development agencies to India because we have a growing youthful out to attract international funding agencies The bottom line is while we are here fighting to develop and promote the African Continental population, we have about 60 per cent which like the World Bank. “We primarily rolled out over dividing resources the value and wealth Free Trade Agreement, with emphasis on business is over 60 per cent of Nigeria’s population. So the BRACED Commission which stands for creation is human capital development and immigration to promote integration of trade it is not oil that is going to solve the problem Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Edo not oil. Oil is something that within 30 years in goods, services and the free movement of of Nigeria, it is human capital development, and Delta States. They represent the south- it is gone, but these youths are trained in all people across the continent of Africa. however the oil proceeds can be applied to set south states. The idea was to roll out to the aspects of technology they will be employed “In Silicon Valley, the city of one million people up colleges of technology everywhere, to train south-south and continue to expand that is and this will curb the challenges of insecurity with over 1 trillion dollar ICT economy in the people in all aspects of modern technology. why we have one in Abuja but was slowed which is caused by unemployment,” he said. THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ,ͰͮͰͯ 35 EDUCATION LSUBEB Promotes Obaseki Lauds Imansuangbon’s Contribution Farming in Public to Education, as Pacesetters Graduates 400 Kuni Tyessi in Abuja ity as you find in advanced wherever the find themselves, such, there must be a change Primary Schools countries. That’s what we saw adding that hard work, the fear in focus. Governor, Godwin today,” Obaseki said. of God and dedication will set “If children are not able to Funmi Ogundare skills for agriculture and make Obaseki has commended the In his remarks, Imansuangbon them apart from others. read to get certain numerical the best use of it. We need more proprietor of Pacesetters Schools, described Obaseki as a reference “Among you are doctors, concept before the age of 10, Pupils from all public primary people to go into farming so Abuja, Mr. Ken Imansuangbon point in education in the country. lawyers, pilots, governors and they are going to be completely schools in Lagos State recently that at the end of the day, we and his wife, Kate, for providing “What he is doing in Edo State, ministers. I might not be alive unable to accomplish much in converged on the State Uni- can solve one of the Sustainable quality education and building the EdoBEST; the mighty works to see all of that and I might life. I’m citing evidence and not versal Basic Education Board Development Goals (SDGs) future leaders of the country. he has done in the education be alive. So my prayer for you mere say. (SUBEB) Multipurpose Hall, which is to eradicate hunger.” The governor said this at the sector is very encouraging.” is to go out there, set the pace “Nations where citizens are for the Y2018 Agricultural In his remarks, the Board graduation and prize-giving While announcing plans to and excel,” he said. not at the economic centre have Education Training Programme Member in charge of Basic ceremony of the class of 2021 establish a university, he said: Also speaking, a former ended up at the bottom. So if (AETP) exhibition show, aimed Education Quality Assurance, of the school, where about 400 “For me, the governor is 100 Minister of Education and co- the continent has to make it, at promoting and encouraging Mr. Dayo Israel said SUBEB pupils and students graduated per cent right that it is time convener of #Bring Back Our education and human capital has farming entreprenership among understands the importance of from the nursery, primary and for us to own the Pacesetters Girls, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili to be epicentre of our economic them. agriculture to the growth of the secondary sections. University. God willing it is expressed concern that nine out of strategy. Education has to be Speaking at the programme, economy, while describing it Obaseki, who was the special coming. It will come like a big every 10 African children are not the new oil,” she said. the Chairman of the board, as a lucrative business.” What guest of honour, applauded bang. The world will know that able to read and learn or identify Highlight of the event was Wahab Alawiye-King, who you are being taught by your the founder and the school’ a university has come. numbers at the age of 10. the presentation of prizes to was represented by a Board teachers is the important skill s management team for their “We have made an application Describing such statistics outstanding graduands and Member in charge of Schools for you to be able to plant and vision in setting up the school, to the National Universities and reality as an economic special recognition awards Support Services, Dr. Saheed grow, do not let anything you saying,“today, we can see Commission (NUC). We have disaster, she said for Nigeria to Obaseki and some other Ibikunle, noted that the pro- are being taught to die,” he said. what two individuals have some international supporters. to move forward from its present eminent personalities for their gramme, funded by UBEC for Another Board Member in done to improve the quality We have got supporters across economic state, education and contributions to educational school farming, is not just a charge of Co-corricular Activi- of foundational education. the world.” human capital must be the new development in Nigeria. space for growing food items, ties, Mrs. Sherifat Adedoyin “These are kids that can stand While stating that education crude oil. Other dignitaries at the occa- but also learning, which has stressed the need for the country their ground if they are paired opens the human mind and Emphasising the love of oil sion included Senator Mathew largely taken basic education to shift away from crude oil to with children of the same age liberates individuals from chains and the gains from it by the elite Urhoghide, representing Edo to a new height in the state. agriculture, adding that there anywhere in the world. That of poverty and societal ills, and political class of the society, South Senatorial District in the He said 51 selected primary is more profit when people go means the educational system Imansuangbon enjoined the the one time Vice-President of National Assembly and his wife; schools were able to access into farming.” We need to be if structured right can produce graduating students to be of the World Bank, said crude oil Senator Victor Oyofo; and Mike funds for crop farming, snail able to feed ourselves through same quality of human capac- good character and set the pace has a severance date and as Ozekhome SAN. rearing, poultry and fishing agriculture, we can also make through bank account opened money from it. If you go into by the schools under the AETP, any kind of agriculture, you adding that pupils will be can be an employer of labour.” guided to plant, monitor the She advised teachers to growth of and harvest their ensure that the pupils inculcate crops for sale. the habit of going to the farm to “The sustainability of the cultivate crop in their schools. programme is key to the board The Managing Director, as each home must be able to Xlarge Farm Consultant, Mrs. produce a farmer. The pupils Seyi Abimbola emphasised the after getting the experiential importance of agriculture and learning can become agri- food to the country, saying that prenuer in future,” he said. without it, there is no future.” Alawiye-King advised the Agriculture is the only business pupils to imbibe the necessary that takes care of your today skills for farming, adding that and secures your future,” she stakeholders should also said, “adding that crops are encourage them to go to the rich in vitamins and minerals farm.” You must imbibe certain needed for healthy living. OAU Inaugurates Students’ Electoral BodyBody Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo reinstate students’ unionism on OAU Campus, the Vice- L-R: A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mike Ozekhome; Director, Pacesetters Academy, Mrs. Kate Imansuangbon; Edo State In fulfilment of his promise Chancellor, Professor Eyitope Governor, Godwin Obaseki; and the Chairman of Pacesetters Academy, Ken Imansuangbon, at the graduation and prize- to fully reinstate all organs Ogunbodede, mandated the giving ceremony of the school in Abuja... recently of students’ unionism in Division of Students’ Affairs to Obafemi Awolowo University set in motion concrete steps to (OAU), the Professor Eyitope achieve installation of vibrant Ogunbodede-led administra- and more articulate students Educationist Blames COVID-19 for Students’ tion has inaugurated Students’ unionism. Electoral Commission and He enjoined the students to Low UTME Scores Students’ Electoral Petition see unionism as an incubat- Commission. Speaking on ing stage of socio-political Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja lockdown to adequately prepare affect our calendar because we “Some of them might be the behalf of the university leadership where they could the students for the exams. He have a uniform calendar in FCT outcome you see as a fallout of management, the Dean of learn rudiments of how the An educationist and Director, said: “Coping with COVID has and at the same time.” the JAMB result. If you are not Students’ Affairs, Professor people, states and nations are New Beacon International School, not been easy. Part of the coping The director appealed to careful, it might still come up Isiaka Aransi, urged OAU governed. Abuja, Mr. Emmanuel Ozigi strategies which we expected the government to support with WAEC. But we pray that student activists to emulate The vice-chancellor therefore has attributed the mass failure that there should be palliative the private sector with some it does not. But the few children their counterparts in developed charged Aransi to do all within recorded by candidates in the from governments. The private funding at a reasonable rate we have here had very good world where student leaders his power to sensitise the 2021 Unified Tertiary Matricula- institutions should be supported. that they can pay back. grades in JAMB. They had over engage management in dia- generality of students on the tion Examination (UTME) to the I don’t think that the initiative While regretting the negative 250. So we are happy and we logue in order to meet the need to see and nurture the Covid-19 pandemic. has worked because some of impact of COVID-19 pandemic believe that when they write academic and welfare needs of union without any rancour Ozigi stated this while fielding us have not been able to access on the 2021 UTME result, Ozigi WAEC they will have better fellow students. This, according or fracas. questions from journalists at the some of those palliatives from added, “the JAMB outcome is results too.” to him, is done through the Highlighting the essence of maiden graduation ceremony of the federal government. a worry to me because as you He said the school has been unions investment drives, inaugurating the two electoral the school for SS3 and JS3 to SS1 “However, on our own as rightly said it is very difficult able to maintain its quality of provision of scholarships, bodies, Aransi, stated that the students. He also called on the directors of the school and other funding education. Now paying learning which has shown in work and study programmes, expectation of the university federal government to ensure partners, we put funds together teachers and running all the the students being churned out among others. community is for the Electoral monitoring and evaluation of to see how we can run the school operational activities has not because the management did A release by the Public Rela- Commission to conduct free, schools to enforce educational without stopping. Even though been an easy thing. So, some not compromise standards in tions Officer of the university, fair and credible elections, standards. with COVID, you would be schools that cannot afford it failed line with regulatory authorities Abiodun Olarewaju, stated that while the Electoral Petition The director added that the surprised that we are still paying and probably could not retain and in line with best practice. Aransi advised the students Commission is to handle all government should ensure teachers. We paid them up to a their teachers.“Even those in the According to him, the mini- not to be confrontational and complaints arising from the that the capacity of teachers certain level that we now have public may not have that much mum qualification of a teacher aluta-focused in their approach. election, with high sense of are strengthened, while public to pay them half salary, then zeal and support for the school in the school is B.Edu, adding Rather, they should employ duty and decency, without schools should be adequately eventually there was a lift in because they need to earn other that the school does not recruit constructive engagement and fear or favour. funded so that they can compete September. So, we did not allow streams of income. So, the time people who do not have requisite dialogue to resolve issues with Present at the occasion with the private sector. them to go because we wanted to be used to take care of the qualifications. “Our NCE holders the management. Restating his were the deans of faculties, Ozigi regretted that many to retain them. So we did not children they use it on other are class assistants. We ensure commitment and pragmatic students across departments schools couldn’t afford their stop or sack anyone or terminate things thereby affecting the that we pay our teachers well, demonstration of his adminis- and members of the university teachers’ salaries even after any appointment. And they are quality hours they need to take give them some welfare and tration’s determination to fully community. the lifting of the COVID-19 happy for the fact that it did not care of and tutor the children. ensure they are comfortable.” 36 THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ,ͰͮͰͯ EDUCATION School Administrator Seeks Curriculum Revamp for 21st Century Skills Acquisition

Peace Obi the only girls’ team in the into assimilation of book a balance. Our vision is to competition, which held knowledge, but we realised go beyond the curriculum The need to revamp Nige- virtually at 11pm Nigerian that education has to be a to emphasise team work KEHINDE OMORU rian schools’ curriculum in time on Thursday, advised lot more holistic, we had and collaboration. www.kayomoru.com order to redirect it towards the federal government to to inject into education “To prepare the students certain skills needed be- inculcate robotics in the soft skills that will allow towards the 21st century, yond the 21st century has curriculum. them to prepare for the we knew that we needed to HEALTHY LIFE FOR been emphasised. While noting that robotics next stage of education. embark on this vision along Speaking ahead of the education will improve “So that is why we are with technology. What we virtual Global Robotics human capital in Nigeria, stressing robotics and it is did was to adopt robotics MALE TEACHERS Competition for Students, Fowler-Amba said, “we not just as extra-curricular, into our curriculum in 2017 As it is customary, male teachers like all men know how important it is to be healthy. Nevertheless being typically men unlike their female coun- the Administrator, Vivian need to look at a place like but we are looking at and other extra-curricular terparts, they ignore this aspect of life. Men generally seem to harbour Fowler Memorial College Ghana. It has incorporated long-term that we want activities.” an infinite concept of strength, which is an enduring relic from the Stone for Girls, Lagos, Mrs. robotics into its curriculum robotics to be part of our She said robotics will Age. Men silently believe that their strength is never going to diminish. In Olufunke Fowler-Amba, and that is what the federal curriculum.” help students to discover their hay-days, men believe that they may have a few bad days, but will regretted that the cur- government should look Speaking on the students’ talents that they never never really get weak, or suffer the problems women do. Unfortunately, it’s riculum is based on the into because by doing that, readiness for the competi- knew they had. “Some never as straightforward as that. The hectic lifestyles that a lot of Nigerian we are going to improve people are academically male teachers lead, pulling in resources here and there, take a toll on their past glory. tion, Fowler-Amba said: bodies as well as on their minds. Consequently is to give priority to all that “It is based on skills that human capital. Human “We have built a culture, sound, but we found that constitutes their individual wellbeing. have become extinct. It is capital is very poor right we have let them know through robotics, we are In addition to a regular nutritious diet and fitness routine that includes based on skills that will now. that we are capable. It’s able to engage children exercises. There are some more lifestyle tips that male teachers could not prepare children to be “The government should not about being a Nigerian, and these children we are look into, which include the following: entrepreneurs in the way look at other developed it’s about using your ability dealing with, which are the Eating nutritionally balanced meals they think,” she said. countries and even the and travelling on the road Alpha generation, need to What you eat now would determine the state of your health in years to come. If many people knew this early enough, they would have been Stressing that the future emerging economies, see of being a life-learner, the engage.” enjoying a healthier old age. A healthy meal should consist of plenty of is technology, Fowler-Amba that one of the things they sky is the limit.” The robotics builders, fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains, milk (whole or skimmed), lean and added: “We need to redirect have done is that they have On the school’s vision Harriet Ariyo and Laila white meat like poultry and fish, red meat in small portions and so on. Make our curriculum because injected technology into all in the next five years, she Eneche, and SS2 students, sure that your food is low-fat, contains very little trans-fat and cholesterol, there are certain skills aspects of whatever they noted: “It is to become a Ayoyimika Adebayo and and wherever possible avoid pre-packed and processed refined foods. that are needed beyond do.” STEM school, a technology Sarah Olomoji, expressed Maintaining regular exercise Good fitness tips include exercising regularly up to four times in a week the 21st Century and they Noting that the method school, one that is chang- readiness for the global for an hour to help improve your overall health condition. A good fitness involve collaboration and of teaching students has ing the face of women in competition, assuring the regime would prevent the likelihood of back injury, and in the longer run, team work. changed a lot more, the workforce. One of the school, the nation and lower the risk of osteoporosis. Cardiovascular exercises combined with The administrator of the Fowler-Amba said, “in things that we emphasise Africa of their victory in aerobics exercises would improve blood circulation and prevent heart only Nigerian team and the past years, we were as a school is that there is the context. disease. Simple activities like vacuum-cleaning, walking, jogging, sprinting, swimming, bicycling, etc. can all help to improve muscle strength and tone your body. Maintaining an ideal body Weight A good body weight not only makes you look good, it helps to optimize your health. Maintaining a good weight would ensure that: your blood pressure and cholesterol stay in check; your blood sugar does not escalate; your risk of heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and obesity (unless genetically prevalent) are lowered. A good weight is not too difficult to achieve, if you’re determined to do so. A healthy diet and exercise garnished with dedication will do the job. Looking good and being complemented for it would definitely make you feel good and boost your morale and self-esteem as you tackle your daily engagements. Limit alcohol intake and smoking It would actually be best to avoid both of these potentially harmful elements. However, if you do take them, do so in moderation. Smoking increases your risk of lung cancer while drinking on the other hand could spill out of control and turn you into an alcohol dependent person. Without doubts, addiction to alcohol ruins an individual’s health, their professional competence, their relationships and their personal life. Essentially, excessive intake of alcohol and smoking both have an adverse effect on the overall health of any individual. Having regular check-ups Going for regular check-up is like taking your car for the mandatory MOT of car-service. It is not just a ‘woman and child thing. Men need to have regular health check-ups considering the fact that most diseases come to all without pre-announcements. Regular screening tests for obesity, blood pressure and sugar, cholesterol, diabetes, sexually transmitted diseases, and prostate cancer are essential. L-R: The Director, Lagos State Library Board, Mr. Amao Oyadipe; representative of the Executive Secretary, Lagos State For men over the age of 40, cancer popularly develops in the male reproduc- Scholarship Board, Mrs. Tinuola Idowu; Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Education, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab; Per- tive gland - prostate - due to a number of reasons. An active sexual life too is imperative for good health. Managing your stress levels with the manent Secretary, Mr. Adeniran Kasali; Senior Special Assistant on Tertiary Institutions and Students Relations, Mr. San- help of your family and friends has proven to be an effective tool to keep yaOlu Omotayo; and Director, Agency for Mass Education, Mrs. Oluwakemi Kalesanwo, at the three-day capacity building depression at bay. A happy life with ways to de-stress yourself combined retreat organised by the Office of the Special Adviser on Education in Epe, Lagos... recently PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT with the above tips would definitely help you lead a healthier life. Omoru is a freelance writer, education, health and social care FSTCY PTA Chairman Promises Efficient Health advocate System, Better Engagement with Parents MGHS Gets Cash Donation from Uchechukwu Nnaike tration was the issue of of teachers, adding that to prevent clustering at the Old Girls communication, the parents when motivated, teachers gate and altercation with The Chairman of the Parent complained that they didn’t will give their best. “In security personnel. Sunday Ehigiator the donation, Mrs. Omorodion Teacher Association (PTA), get messages so they didn’t any way we can, we will While emphasising expressed satisfaction with the Federal Science and Techni- know what was going on. support them for instance that the PTA is only an In commemoration of their 40th state they met the school in, 40 cal College, Yaba, Lagos, We want to be able to shore during teachers’ day we intervention body, he called anniversary of leaving school, years after their last visit. Dr. Emma Onyenuche, has up communication and can present them gifts, we on the federal government members of the 1981 set of “We are very happy about expressed his administra- make sure that as soon will continue their building to live up to its task of Methodist Girls High School this because it’s like a learning tion’s readiness to ensure as information drops, it project, those are part of ensuring that the school (MGHS), Old Girls Association aid that will help the girls excel an effective health care gets to the parents so they the long-term goals, when is well maintained. have presented an undisclosed more. This school has always system in the college will be aware part-time of we evaluate, we take what “The government should cheque to their Alma mater, been known for excellence.” and promote a culture of what is going on. we can finish or why we release funds, follow it up, for the purchase of interactive She said with the equipment cleanliness among students “This kind of popula- can go reasonably far make sure that things are boards and equipment for the to the labs, learning would be and other members of the tion needs efficient health with.” done because we are just science laboratories. made easier for the students. college community. system because there are According to him, to support, we cannot run They made the donation on “We wish the girls all the best The recently elected communicable diseases; parents are not forgot- the school. The govern- Monday, July 12, during a visit and admonish them to remain chairman, who announced so our clinic needs to be ten, saying that when ment should supervise and to the school, in preparation for dedicated and hard working.” the short and long-term optimal, it needs to func- they come for meetings, ensure that its impact is their 40 years school leaving In her acceptance remarks, agenda of the PTA Exco in tion well. These are the “we can also incorporate felt in the school.” anniversary. the school’s Principal, Dame a chat with journalists, also things we can do within medical outreach for them; The chairman also Members present during the Adenike Idowu lauded the promised to communicate the first 100 days,” he said. the school community will solicited the support of donation include, President of efforts of the old girls, and effectively with parents to Onyenuche, the Medical also experience outreach the school management, Methodist Girls High School showered prayers on them. “I keep them abreast of all Director of Waterfalls Hos- time and again.” parents and members of Old Girls Association 1981 set thank God for these lovely set of its activities. pital and Maternity, also In the long run, he said the school community to Mrs. Aderonke Omorodion, the students who thought of giving “One of the greatest announced plans to tackle a conducive waiting area enable his team get down Vice-President, Mrs. Feyisara back such a tech thing at this challenges we observed the issue of inadequate toi- will be built for parents at to work without much Osinupebi, among others. particular point in time, which is with the past adminis- lets, as well as the welfare the entrance of the school, hindrance. Speaking with THISDAY after the most needed thing for now. THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ,ͰͮͰͯ 37   Education Expert Kogi Poly Expels 150 Students for Develops Project to Various Offences, Sentences One to Boost Passion for 8 Years Imprisonment Teaching, Learning Ibrahim Oyewale within the ambience of the fraudsters, their sympathizers student of Public Administration. institution’s value for academic and sponsors. The said student, Mr. Tenimu Sunday Okobi irresistible. A total of 150 students have excellence, creativity and self- “Students are advised to Muhammed was apprehended “At an in-house staff train- been expelled by the manage- reliance. stay safe and free from all cult- with a locally made pistol and An educationist and the ing, and through the effective ment of Polytechnic, “You should be informed related lifestyles, examination some live ammunition while convener of The Effective teacher training platforms, I Lokoja for various offences, that the reformed Kogi State misconduct and other social making his way to the campus Teacher, a teacher training have consistently pursued the while one other was sentenced Polytechnic under my watch vices. Students are also advised to sit his final paper. and school support outfit, Mr. goal of training the minds of to eight years imprisonment for has zero tolerance for all forms to report any move intended Instead of taking the path of Sylvester Anoma, has developed my listeners in order to make possession of firearms. of social vices. It is important to intimidate or lure them into decent life to study and graduate techniques to help Nigerian them push for higher profes- The Rector, Dr. Salisu Usman to note that while noble acts cultism from any quarter to the to become a responsible citizen, teachers regain their passion sional standards and ideals. This Ogbo, who disclosed this attract rewards, all vices will security he is currently serving an eight- and enthusiasm for teaching, book is birth from a place I am recently, while speaking at the be met with heavy and severe “Painfully but necessarily, year prison term in addition as well as the impartation of passionately seeking to raise a 28th matriculation ceremony sanctions. You should endeavour since we came on board, fol- to payment of N8,000 fine to values in their students. generation of excellent teachers. in Lokoja, warned the new to obtain, read and digest the lowing the laid down rules the state government. He was Anoma, who decried the “It is aimed at breeding students to shun social vices revised edition of the Students’ and regulation as contained specifically convicted for ostensible lack of motivation in teachers whose motivation for that could undermine the rules Information Handbook that in the Students’ Information belonging to an unlawful some teachers for their jobs due being excellent is not merely to and regulation of the school. will be distributed through Handbook, we have so far society cult which he is now to socio-economic and other situ- please their current boss, but also He explained that the poly- your respective departments. expelled over 150 students regretting.” ations in the country, noted that to stand tall in their field. The technic has zero tolerance for Ignorance of the law has no on cases bordering on cultism, While advising the new his recent work has developed JAMB result is a call for us to all forms of social vices such as place in this school and will examination misconduct and students, the guest speaker, time-tested principles capable replicate our kinds in the sector. cultism, gun-running, examina- not be condoned.” forging of entry documents, Mr. Bisong P. Bisong, the of turning any teacher from Excellent teachers are needed tion malpractices, drug abuse, Ogbo said cultism and among others as part of our acting Principal Staff Officer, being ordinary to irresistible. now more than ever.” divisive tendencies, cybercrimes, examination misconduct are aggressive campaign against Operation/Intelligence, National The University of , On what inspired his latest incitement, violence, gangster- completely forbidden on cam- rots and unethical engagements. Drug Law Enforcement Agency English and Literature work, Anoma said having ism, misuse and destruction of pus, adding that all the security “Recently, with the support of (NDLEA), disclosed that about alumnus, while chatting with mentored a few teachers school property, stealing and architecture of the polytechnic the Nigerian Police and the state 14.3 million (20 per cent) people THISDAY recently on his latest through his platform, the indecent dressing. placed in many strategic places government in particular, we have substance use disorder, book: ‘Secrets of an Irresistible Effective Teacher, “I had been The rector appealed to the have both visible and invisible successfully secured judgement which affects the user’s immedi- Teacher’, among other collec- confronted with a lot of issues matriculants to explore and preventive mechanisms to deal leading to the conviction and ate family and the society at tions of works and poetry, also ranging from incompetence excel in any virtuous endeavour with cultists and examination sentence of a national diploma large with grave consequences. regretted the effect of insecurity to lack of motivation for the on the educational system in work. I had seen teachers who the country, saying, “learning joined private schools with great can only take place in a safe passion and enthusiasm, only and conducive atmosphere. to discover that their enslaved “The major issue with this environment has quenched that consistent target of students by flame of passion. kidnappers and other criminal “I wrote this book to address elements is that it cripples not these issues and to stir up that just the school, but life itself. fire in again; I wrote this book Good hands would be scared to encourage my colleagues that of working in such a region; they can become not just good parents are scared of losing their but irresistible. This book wI’ll jewels to hardened criminals teach them how to go about it.” who have little regards for life.” Using the recently released On ways to bring back life to JAMB results as a point of refer- teachers who have lost hope and ence, where less than 20 per cent love for the teaching profession, passed, Anoma, who also holds Anoma said: “The ‘Secrets of a Master’s degree in English an Irresistible Teacher’ is a Language from the University collection of excellent teaching of Lagos, said that clearly “is practices and guidelines skill- not where we want to be as fully compiled to help teachers a nation. This is a regression become better in their pursuit from what we used to see. The for excellence. In this book, the little to no academic activity for narration moves from what is over a year occasioned by the required to make a good teacher, pandemic has increased the to the time-tested principles learning gulf, and this calls The Chancellor and General Superintendent, Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor William Kumuyi, with first class gradu- that are capable of turning any for a review of how to help ates during the maiden convocation ceremony of Anchor University in Lagos... recently teacher from being ordinary to the situation.” TETFund’s Role in Anchor Varsity Celebrates First Class Graduands Funmi Ogundare she attributed her success to Prof. Joseph Afolayan said are built for greatness and Nigeria’s Education Sector God. She said despite her poor the convocation ceremony should be proud that they It was celebration all the performance in Biochemistry in was historic, considering studied at the institution. Commendable, Says Okowa way at the maiden convo- 200 level, two of her lecturers the teething challenges the In his remarks, the Chan- cation ceremony of Anchor had encouraged her never to institution has gone through in cellor, Dr. William Kumuyi actually goes out on oversight Omon-Julius Onabu functions, the more likely we are University, Lagos recently, as see any course as unpassable. bringing forth the pioneering congratulated the graduands in Asaba going to have better institutions. Miss Mary Erhumuoghene, “I didn’t plan to have first graduands, adding that in the saying, “this is an important There is no doubt that through 20, of the Department of class and after my poor last four years it is commit- day in your lives; we are all Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of various laws passed by our Microbiology, Faculty of perfomance in Biochemistry ted to the vision of being a happy and celebrate with Delta State has commended nation and the act establishing Science and Science Educa- which I saw as difficult in 200 citadel of learning for holistic you. These graduands are the Tertiary Education Trust the TETFund, a lot has been tion was called out to receive level, my lecturers helped me human transformation and the very first fruit of this Fund (TETFund) for its done in tertiary institutions. positive impact on the growth “However, I still think that her prize from the Chancellor to set goals and I made up my development. citadel of learning and will and development of tertiary generally as a country, we must and General Superintendent, mind to be successful in it.” “These graduands were here after now, be charged with the education in Nigeria. begin to look very closely into Deeper Christian Life Ministry, She said the university has when we started our journey enviable duty of opening the Receiving members of the funding and research of the Pastor William Kumuyi, for done so much to develop its of faith in 2017. Despite all Anchor University’s Alumni the House of Representa- tertiary institutions more than emerging the best graduating students by imparting the the challenges they faced as Association. tives Committee on Tertiary we are doing at the moment. student with a CPGA of 3.95 necessary knowledge, attitude students, including tough He advised them to ensure Education and Services, led “This will help in the de- out of 4.0. and skills in the students to decisions that had to be that they get to the peak of by its Chairman, Hon. Aminu velopment of the mind and Suleiman, at the Government the higher institutions, and She received three other make them great leaders, while made for their progress, they their careers and seek op- House, Asaba, the governor will also help to bring us to sponsored prizes for the best commending her parents and wouldn’t deny the fact that portunities available in their described as outstanding the compete with other universities graduating student in the lectures for their efforts. those tough decisions have fields of study. contributions of TETFund to of the world.” department. Erhumuoghene She urged her fellow grad- impacted them and made According to him, “under- the funding of research and On his administration’s outshined 62 graduates the uands to be good ambassadors them better persons.” mine and minimise seemingly infrastructure development in entrepreneurial programmes, institution produced for the of the institution and learn He said since the establish- appearing obstacles by setting its mandate area. Okowa said ”until we began to He however said a lot more grow youth entrepreneurs in 2019/2020 academic session. from every mistake, saying, ment of the university, they your face and eyes as a flint to could be achieved especially in various aspects such as skills Twenty two graduands also “they will make you to be have ensured relationship and the zenith, research and reach the area of research funding in acquisition and agricultural obtained first class from the who you want to be. Earn linkages with institutions in your havens of icons in your higher institutions across the entrepreneurship programmes, Faculties of Science and Science an identity for yourself, it is other countries to gain global field of study and go higher country. we may not be able to sustain Education, as well as Social about understanding more relevance. to become global achievers “As it stands in this country, the peace being built at the the more the National Assembly and Management Sciences. of you.” The VC advised the graduat- as ambassadors of Christ and moment. In her valedictory speech, The Vice-Chancellor, ing students, saying that they expect help from God.” 38 THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ

ÜÙßÚÏËÞßÜÏÝÎÓÞÙÜ˝ÒÓÏ×ÏÖÓÏäÏÙÌÓ CITYSTRINGS ×ËÓÖÍÒÓÏ×ÏÖÓÏ˛ÏäÏÙÌÓ̶ÞÒÓÝÎËãÖÓàÏ˛ÍÙט͖͕͔͑͑͒͑͒͑͑͘ Promoting Yoruba Culture Globally Chiamaka Ozulumba writes on the passion at which Joel Olaniyi-Oyatoye, a Canada-based Nigerian, has been promoting Yoruba culture globally

Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Abiodun Ige Adams presenting award to Alaafin's wife, Queen Ramot Adeyemi while Prince Olaniyi Oyatoye and Basorun of Oyo, Chief Yu- Cultural dancers at the event suff Akinade look on

Aareonakakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Abiodun Ige Adams flanked by the commissioner Guests at the event for culture and tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun and Prince Olaniyi Oyatoye at the event

or Canada-based Nigerian culture progress with the Canada events but Also in his remarks, the Aare Ona to the Canadian Government and he is enthusiast Prince Olaniyi Oya- Asa day is a brand on its own,and as a Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, presently enjoying massive support and toye, his passion to promote the global event, it transcends beyond Nigeria said there is no doubt that Yoruba has leverage from the government. Yoruba culture is telling. Recently, and South West. It is our plan to extend lost its culture and tradition to foreign "That is why today, we can witness he took a big leap in cultural this to other South-west states, including culture and this had taken a huge toll large turnout of dignitaries, culture Fpromotion for the 2021 Asa day held at Lagos, Ekiti, Ondo and Ogun States". on the general values and impression enthusiasts and foreign ambassadors the Cultural Centre, Ibadan, . He insisted that the sterling qualities of the race. who are ready to project the African The event was to promote the Yoruba of the administration of Governor Seyi He pointed out that with the new culture and tradition. culture and tradition and also make huge Makinde of Oyo State in the promotion development, the convener of the The occasion was graced by eminent efforts in exporting those cultural ideas of cultural values of the Yorubaland is programme, Prince Oyatoye, and his personalities and critical stakeholders to the global world. exemplary. team have done the entire Yoruba race, in the promotion of cultural tourism Explaining the reasons for his cultural "These qualities were staunchly as well as those that are promoting the towards boosting the economy of the exploits, Convener and President of Asa recognised and celebrated by foremost culture and tradition a big favour by state and South-west at large. Day World Wide Inc.Canada, Oyatoye said Yoruba , the Alaafin of Oyo,His using a platform such as Asa Day to Prominent guests present at the the outfit is a non profitable organisation imperial majesty, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola regain the lost glory and revive South event include Alaafin's wife, Queen that was established purposely in order Adeyemi III; and the Aare Ona Kakanfo West economy. Ramot Adeyemi;Aareonakakanfo of to promote Yoruba culture across the of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams",he said. The Yoruba generalissimo, however, Yorubaland,Iba Gani Abiodun Ige world, adding that previous events had Alaafin and Aare Gani Adams in their urged all culture enthusiasts to support Adams,Bashorun of Oyo,Chief Yusuff been held twice in Canada. separate remarks charged the remaining the cause that would enhance everything Akinade, former Oyo state first lady, The Yoruba culture ambassador five governors in the SouthWest geo- that has to do with Yoruba culture and Alhaja Mutiat Ladoja; Former Deputy maintained also that those events were political zone of Lagos, Ogun, Osun, tradition. governor of Oyo state Ambassador Taofeek truly an eye-opener, saying the annual Ondo and Ekiti States to emulate Makinde Oyo State Commissioner for Informa- Oladejo Arapaja, and Commissioner for Asa Day would bring forth the desired in promoting cultural tourism. tion, Culture and Tourism, Dr.Wasiu Information, Culture and Tourism in Oyo reward for future events Speaking on the occasion, Oba Adeyemi, Olatunbosun,in his speech commended State, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun, and members "After two successive editions of Asa who was represented by the Basorun of the courage of the convener of the of Oyo State House of Assembly. Day in Toronto, and Manitoba, Canada Oyoland, Chief Yusuf Akinade, eulogized programme, saying the event would The roll call also comprised former in 2018 and 2019, we decided to come Makinde's efforts in showcasing the open a new vista of hope for the state commissioner of police in Lagos State, down to Oyo to showcase the best of cultural potentials of the Yoruba race. and Yorubaland in general. Kolawole Esusu; as well as eminent Yoruba culture and that is the reason for The monarch said the Yoruba are a "On behalf of our amiable governor personalities, including wife of the late this event. So, I am using this opportunity blessed race with history, values and Engineer Seyi Makinde, and the Oyo strongman of Ibadan politics, Alhaja to seek the support needed to take this traditions that had endured for centuries, State Government, I want to extend my Bose Adedibu; Special Adviser to the programme to an enviable heights as it noting that it's sad that the Yoruba culture appreciation to the president of Asa Day Governor on Diaspora Hon. Bolanle is done all over the world." and tradition are going into extinction. Worldwide, Prince Olaniyi Oyatoye, for Sarumi, her counterparts on Culture Oyatoye insisted that Asa day was a His words: "Asa Day has brought to organising this special event in Oyo state. and Tourism,Hon Akeem Ige and Special complete project designed to take the the fore memories of the past, including I also appreciate him for making Oyo Adviser to the Ekiti State governor on Yoruba youths off the streets, adding that those values that have made our race a State the pacesetter as usual for cultural Culture and Tourism, Wale Ojo-Lanre; the youths represented the strength of unique and distinct race among all races. transformation. Ekefa Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oloye every race and if the southwest governors So we must applaud the converner of "The event has showcased the tourism Lekan Alabi; as well as Mojisola Meshioye, could key into the programme, it would Asa Day World Wide Inc. Prince Olaniyi values and potentials of Oyo state and and other dignitaries. add to the value and create the needed Oyatoye, for partnering with the Oyo SouthWest as a whole. All these are Governor Seyi Makinde, Alaafin's market for the youths . State Government under Governor Seyi the ideals being nurtured by the State wife,Queen Ramot Adeyemi and a few "There is a global template to show- Makinde to develop an annual template Government, other prominent dignitaries were also case the content of Yoruba culture to for cultural transformation and develop- "Oyatoye had, through this event, honoured with various awards at the the world. We have made significant ment". exported Nigeria's culture and tradition event. THISDAY ˾  Ͱͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ 39 CRIME&SECURITY Cultists, Armed Robbers Worsen Insecurity in Anambra David-Chyddy Eleke reports that insecurity in Anambra has hit an all-time-high, with members of secret cults, armed robbers and petty thieves taking the lead hough security in the South-east of Nigeria has worsened as a result of constant attacks by hoodlum codenamed 'Unknown Gunmen' on security officials and theirT facilities, there is a new twist in the insecurity plaguing Anambra state. The attacks on security facilities and security agents have practically caused a breakdown in conventional policing, with policemen now realising their vulnerability to attacks, thereby retreating from carrying out their duties the normal way they used to. For example, policemen no longer conduct 'stop and search' operations on major highways, just as THISDAY learnt that some police stations no longer open for duty, nor do they accept reports from members of the public, or even effect arrest any longer. This may be because of the damage caused their facilities by attacks. On 10th June, it was gathered that gunmen in their numbers attacked Ojoto Police station in Idemili South local government area of Anambra State. During the attack which happened in the afternoon, one Police Leader of commercial tricycle riders in Awka, Prince was murdered Inspector was killed but the attackers were by suspected cultists Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Chris Owolabi unable to burn down the police station as policemen on duty stood their ground rival groups. want to upstage the ones collecting bus a handkerchief from a victims pocket, An eyewitness said the hoodlums came in A source told THISDAY that majority toll to add it to their revenue window. mistaking it to be money was burnt to three Sienna vehicles, but were repelled by of commercial tricycle operators in the This tussle has been on for a while now, death. Also, in Obinagu area of Awka, the policemen on duty. "We are in trouble in capital city either belong to one cult or and you know that these Keke (tricycle) three armed robbers who are said to have this state now. Nobody knows which way the other, just as their membership of such riders are mostly members of one cult persistently terrorised the area in motorcycle to follow again. The problems and tension groups aid their commercial operations or the other, so the tussle has taken the were on Friday night apprehended and being created in Anambra are too much in the town. shape of cult rivalry." burnt alive. for us to bear " the eyewitness lamented. This much was given credence recently The slain Prince who is said to be newly A resident of the area, Mr Lawrence Ndu, "These attacks have contributed to crippling when a leader of commercial tricycle riders married, and has a little daughter, hails from a trader said, "these boys have made life conventional policing in Anambra and the in Unizik junction, Awka, popularly known Ifitedunu in Dunukofia Local Government very unbearable for us. Once it is 7pm, they South east state". as Prince was killed by suspected cultists. of Anambra State. moved from shop to shop, to rob people. But in Anambra, besides the reign of Prince was shot on Thursday afternoon His death sparked tension in the Anambra If you come out as early as 6am, they are unknown gunmen, cultists and armed at Unizik Junction, Awka, and his body State capital, as it is believed that his associ- also there to collect your belonging. It is robbers have seized the opportunity to also severally matcheted by his assailants. ates may move to avenge his death. The not the first time we are apprehending add to the fear in the state by having It was gathered that his assailants arrived activities of cultists in the city has totally and killing thieves, but they keep coming." free reign. the area in a Toyota Sienna vehicle shortly crippled night life as residents now retire The Public Relations Officer of Anambra For example, no day passes by without after Prince himself arrived and parked to their homes as early as 7pm. State Police Command, DSP Toochukwu incidences of armed robbery and cult kill- his car inside the park, before strolling Ikenga reacting to the spate of insecurity said ings. In many neighborhoods in towns on foot to the gate of the tricycle park, Armed Robbery the command has been working, contrary across the state, including the state capital, where he was attacked. There is also a high spate of robbery in to speculations. He said investigations have armed robbers consisting of youths sack "The men shot at him immediately, killing various parts of Anambra State. This has been opened about most of the killings a whole street, moving from one end of him on the spot, while using matchets to drawn concern from stakeholders in various in the state. the street to the other, robbing shops and mutilate his body before leaving in their communities, leading to the establishment Reacting to the killing of Prince, Ikenga residential buildings, most times at day, vehicle," a source said. The source told our of local security outfits. Like in Emma said, "Preliminary investigations revealed without any form of challenge. reporter that the killing of Prince, though Nnaemeka Street, a neighbourhood in Awka, that it is a cult-related clash. These are part cult-related, was not also unconnected to leaders of the area have employed private of incidents the command is worried about. Cult Activities a fresh tussle by a certain group to take security to ensure security in the area. Just recently, the command took campaign THISDAY cannot exactly confirm which over the collection of toll from tricycle Also in Onitsha and Nnewi, the traditional against such in a security summit with cult groups have been operating in the riders in Awka. rulers of the areas have established security the youth at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, state, but in Awka, there are rampant cases The source said, "Even the state govern- agencies, funding them with operational Awka and we can assure you that we are of killings, most of which happen at day, ment knows who they are, and they also vehicles, arms and ammunition. In Nkpor, extending the campaign to other parts of the with gun wielding youths accosting and know the trouble between the rival factions. Obosi and other areas, residents have community and stakeholders. Meanwhile shooting their targets in broad daylight. There is a big man who is in charge of resorted to self-help by meting jungle investigation is on going and patrol team It is believed that most of those killed collecting toll at bus stations in Awka, but justice on criminals apprehended. Recently, have been deployed. Normalcy has been are cultists, who are being targeted by the ones in charge of collecting tricycle toll a pickpocket in Onitsha who had picked restored in the area." Oluwakemi Jegede Marks Diamond Jubilee, Launch Post-rehabilitation Centre in Lagos Chiamaka Ozulumba as some of the cases being handled cannot rehabilitation homes." "Parents should be more sensitive and be sorted out within a short period of time." According to her, 'Mara to Elim Post- understanding as the era of dictating careers Mrs Oluwakemi Jegede, who recently clocked She added that the residents' problems Rehabilitation Centre' which is a Faith-based for children has passed away, this is the 21st 60, has kicked off her dream to establish a upon graduation are compounded due to centre would provide accommodation, Century." rehabilitation centre to help drug addicts rejection they receive from their family and feeding, counseling and vocational train- Pastor Keji, a former key member in Fela find their feet. the society in addition to the fact that they are ing whereby the residents will be trained Anikulapokuti's Egypt 80 band, disclosed The sexagenarian said, "hard drugs are a unemployable, in most cases the residents in some art and crafts such as Carpentry, that he also struggled with substance abuse menace to our society in Nigeria and glob- sadly return back to the streets. soap making, sewing, plumbing amidst other for 15 years, adding that his downward spiral ally. It is worrisome that Nigeria occupies a "It is very easy for them to be lured back artisan works to enable them eke out a living started when he informed his father that prominent place in the global hard drug use into the streets by their friends who have when they are discharged from the home. he no longer wanted to study Pharmacy at and trafficking index. Hard drugs destroy become so hardened in drug addiction and "The post-rehab centre will be for a spe- University of Ibadan at age 16 but wanted destinies, dreams and renders the user useless sadly that was the case of my relative, he cific period of time sufficient enough for to study Music abroad. for life if care is not taken. always goes back to the streets after gradu- its residents to have found their feet in life His father's disapproval made him leave "The reason behind my drive for rehabilitat- ation from the rehabilitation homes. and be ready for full integration into the home and severe family ties for 15 years ing substance abusers is a personal one. A "The name 'Mara to Elim' which means society", she added. when he moved in with Fela at the African very close relative has been a drug addict 'From Bitterness to Sweetness' was borne Speaking at the Launch, Head Pastor, Shrine. He started experimenting with dif- for over 40 years. out of the fact that I realised that some of Tabernacle Christian Ministry and House ferent hard drugs after being introduced to He is now 65 years with no wife, children, residents suffer rejection from family, some of Joy, Pastor Keji Hamilton advised parents 'weed' in his teens by a lady. job and shelter, all because he was an addict. of them are unemployed and unemployable not to impose their choices or decisions on For 10 years he was hooked on Marijuana, "I had severally intervened in his situation due to the extent of irreparable damage due their children as that brews rebellion. Cocaine and Heroine whilst being a key mem- and taken him to different rehabilitation to excessive illicit drug use. According to him, "most times if you trace ber in the band. His addiction was expensive centres but little was achieved as those rehab "The societal stigma even after gradua- the path of a rebellious child, it leads back as he could spend up to N25,000 a day on centre are designed to intervene for just a tion from these centers hence the initiative to the parent. A case of parental disapproval drugs and it pushed him to crime when he short period of time. was conceived to provide succour to them might push a child to drugs, imposing ca- could no longer afford the lifestyle. But he "And upon graduation, most of the resi- for a longer time after failing to properly reers on children can trigger rebellion or encountered Jesus when he was hiding from dents still need longer time to be fully broken, fit into society inspire of graduating from depression. the Nigerian Police in a brothel in 1994. 40 WEDNESDAY,  ͺ͹˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY PAGE FOURTY Anambra Poll: PDP Exposes Judge, Demands Release of Court Judgment Chuks Okocha in Abuja State. wherein he challenged Ozigbo’s the defendants time to respond written application to the judge." For this reason, the PDP The party, in a statement by the candidature for the November to the processes served on them However, the PDP said to the said, "We, therefore, call on National Publicity Secretary, Kola 6, 2021 governorship election. and proceeded with the hearing chagrin of the Defendants, the the Chief Judge of Anambra The Peoples Democratic Party Ologbondiyan, stressed that the Barely 24 hours after Senator of the Plaintiff’s case. Court had gone ahead to issue (PDP) Tuesday alerted of plots State, Honorable Justice O.M only reason Justice Nwabunike Uba instituted the suit, Justice According to the PDP, copies of the Judgment to the Anyachebelu and the National by Justice O.A Nwabunike of disappeared with the case file Nwabunike curiously granted "Regardless of the 180 days plaintiff, Senator Uba. the Anambra State High Court Judicial Council (NJC) to quickly and refused to make copies of an exparte injunction, restraining provided by the constitution for Moreover, it further stated that call Justice O.A Nwabunike to to derail the course of justice by his judgment available to the INEC from carrying out their the hearing and determination the trial judge has been making hiding the case file on the Senator order as there must be an end PDP and its candidate, Valentine constitutional duty and also of pre-election matters, the every effort to frustrate the notices to judicial rascality. Ugochukwu UBA Vs PDP & Ors Ozigbo, was because he (Justice abridged the time within which Honorable Court hastily of appeal filed by the PDP and in a bid to frustrate an appeal her candidate, Valentine Ozigbo. "Justice Nwabunike must Nwabunike) was aware that his the Defendants were legally concluded proceedings and be made to release the case against his judgment on PDP judgement could not stand in obliged to file their defence delivered judgment within 14 The PDP said it noted that Anambra State governorship any appeal. from 42 days to only 3 days in days. the reason Nwabunike was file as well as the copies of the primary election. The PDP recalled that on July violation of Order 16 Rule 1(2) of "The most unfortunate part of employing the legal shenanigans judgment,because his continued The PDP, therefore, charged 5, 2021, an aspirant, Senator the Anambra State High Court this episode is that the judge, after was to frustrate the Defendants’ refusal is capable of pitting the Justice Nwabunike to immediately Ugochukwu Uba, who did not (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019. hastily delivering the Judgment, appeal against his judgment, Judiciary against the people release the case file, as the participate in the PDP primary, The PDP said despite the made away with the case file which was intended to assist of Anambra, whose mandate, compromises in the case were instituted a suit against the PDP, obvious hardship created by and refused to release copies of an individual, who did not as being expressed in our already known to the public, its candidate, Valentine Ozigbo this strange exparte order, the his judgment to the defendants participate in the primary to candidate, Valentine Ozigbo, is especially, the people of Anambra and the Independent National judge, on the day of hearing, despite their application in the distract the party ahead of this being undermined by Justice Electoral Commission (INEC), being the 16th of July 2021, denied open Court as well as the officially crucial election. Nwabunike", the PDP stated. BUHARI: NEWS OF DOWNED FIGHTER JET DEVASTATING, BUT I’M RELIEVED PILOT SURVIVED relieved him. and Kaduna States. were destroyed and I had no pin down while I kept running, "So much more… the village The pilot said his helpers While Buhari, however, hailed The Chief of Defence choice than to eject, I just said and when they got close to I eventually entered at night, I dropped him where he was the pilot’s gallantry in the face Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor, had ‘God, finally, here we go'. me, I was still able to evade told God that the first person picked up by soldiers. of intense fire power, Dairo immediately commended the "As I was flanked by the them by camouflaging (I was I see and call should favour "They dropped me with too said his survival was only pilot for his bravery. bandits, I kept praying and I wearing green fg suits - in the me and that happened, he the person, who with pride made possible by God because Irabor, who met the pilot in kept telling God to answer your green forest) and concealing gave me clothes, pain-relieving and joy called the army guys the bandits wanted him alive company with the Chief of the prayers, because I know you myself", Dairo said, adding that drugs, food and water and even to come and meet me (they than killing him after they knew Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo (his group) were all praying for he encountered many obstacles malt, and he organised for a all had sleepless nights). NAF he had ejected. Amao, before proceeding to a me. I love you all and I thank in the forest but survived with bike to carry me to Dansadau helicopters came to pick me up The pilot had finished a raid meeting with military veterans God for bestowing his love on God's help. early next morning (throughout from there. There are so much against kidnappers, when he in the North-west, commended me and saving me from death "I ran into plenty spiders the night I couldn’t sleep, I was to say. All thanks to God, thank came under intense fire, the the pilot for the gallantry and several times within that period", and I laid down several times praying that the bandits don’t you so much", he said. Air Force spokesman, Air bravery he demonstrated in the he said. out of weakness not knowing attack the village because my Spokesman of the Nigerian Commodore Edward Gabkwet, fight against banditry. According to him, "I will if anything poisonous would right leg was already swollen Air Force, Air Commodore said in a statement on Monday. However, giving a personal still share my testimonies but sting or bite me. All glory is to and very painful so I couldn’t Edward Gabkwet confirmed But Flight Lieutenant Dairo account of what happened, truly God ordered my steps, God, all glory. I have not been jump fences or run again, plus the pilot's testimony. was able to elude several Dairo, who declared that God the bandits (meanwhile they are your most righteous brother, but I didn’t want to bring death "Yes. It's from the pilot. strongholds of the bandits by made his survival possible as he ruthless like Boko haram, I don't I felt God’s hands in everything, upon innocent people, and it He sent it to his high school using the cover of darkness and waded through the stronghold know why we still call them even in every decisions I took may force the guy to give me WhatsApp chat group", he said. his phone set to navigate and of armed bandits in the Zamfara bandits) were more interested immediately I was shot, all the out to the bandits", he narrated. maneuver his way to a Nigerian bushes at night until his rescue, in capturing me than shooting decisions worked together to Army Unit, where he was finally said the bandits, who operated me (even at point blank range), save my life". PDP CAUCUS: NCC MISLED HOUSE ON rescued. more like Boko Haram, were eventually they got neither. He narrated that that he was Reacting to the development in interested in capturing him "He gave me the strength to able to remove his phone from E-TRANSFER OF RESULTS a statement issued last night by alive than shooting him with run and walk covering almost his lap to his protective suit Face Prosecution’, the PDP telecommunications giant, MTN a presidential spokesman, Garba the way they combed the bushes 30kms even with one strained before pulling the ejection handle. caucus alleged that officials of Nigeria, recently announced that it Shehu, President Buhari said he in search of him. leg. Having not had any food "For example, removing my the commission misled the House had achieved extensive nationwide was pained by the news of the In a testimony he gave to or water all day, I prayed for phone from my lap and putting with their presentation. network coverage of 89.9 per cent. air crash. his high school group in a strength, because I needed it, it in my G -suit before pulling The statement read, “It was a “This is just MTN, not to talk of “I was shocked by the WhatsApp platform, he said he and he gave me". the ejection handle (I had to show of shame on the floor of other networks,” Chinda noted. devastating news of the air crash prayed from the moment his Further, the gallant pilot said, use the compass of the phone the House of Representatives on The statement further read, but felt much relieved, following plane was shot and throughout "I can spend hours talking of and AirNav Pro application Friday, July 17, 2020 during the “Perhaps, the worst form of the successful ejection by the pilot the ordeal and God answered how I lost and regained hope to navigate), and making the consideration of the Electoral Act perfidy, deception and outright and his eventual rescue. May his supplications. multiple times throughout my decision to turn hard 90 degrees Amendment Bill lies is for NCC to hide the the injured pilot recover at the He told his colleagues on the adventure but God is faithful. immediately the bandits lost sight “The comedy of errors started Memorandum of Understanding earliest time,” President Buhari social media platform that prior It’s now that I feel all the pains of me on a sandy cliff, where by the House stopping INEC from between NCC and INEC in 2019. was quoted as saying. to the incident, he had dreams I suffered from the ejection they couldn’t trace my footpath appearing before the House to During preparations for the 2019 Shehu said President Buhari of fighting and evading enemies. (including a fracture in my neck again (the CAS told me they prevent the nation from learning general election, Mahmood had been briefed on the successful "Before Sunday I had been and painful back and chest) but got information that in turn, the truth and allowing only NCC Yakubu, INEC Chairman, had operation by the nation’s defence having dreams, where I saw God didn’t allow those pains to the bandits kept going straight to appear to discuss issues on in January 2018 visited the NCC forces to rescue the pilot, few myself fighting and evading slow me down for the bandits in the direction I was initially the ability or otherwise of INEC to discuss collaboration that would days after armed bandits gunned enemies like real-time war, day to capture me. going and they destroyed several to handle electronic transmission enhance the electoral process. down the military aircraft. in day out, like nightmares, so "NAF platforms overhead villages and camps, killing plenty of votes. “A joint technical committee of The attack happened on the when my jet got shot with the also helped me to deter them people, thinking those people “Officials of the NCC, led by INEC and NCC was subsequently border of the northern Zamfara explosives and my flight controls a lot by making some of them to harbored me). Maska, who represented the formed with a mandate to map Executive Vice Chairman, Prof out strategies that would reduce NESO: NIGERIA GENERATES ONLY 15.6% OF NATIONAL ELECTRICITY REQUIREMENT Umaru Garba Danbatta, appeared human interventions in the In the last seven years, the Democratic Republic of Congo 2907MW, being one of the three vendors and 58 corporate and an oath was administered on transmission of election results. The CBN was estimated to have (DRC). worst days during the week, installers. them consistent with Section 5 of committee was headed by Maska pumped over N1.5 trillion into In the weekly data released the lowest voltage recorded The list obtained by THISDAY the Legislative House (Powers and co-chaired by Muhammed the sector, in over 23 instances by the system operator, on July was 300kv. It was 4598.6MW indicated that the updated and Privileges) Act 2017. Lecky, an INEC National through the Power and Aviation 14th, peak generation was a for peak generation on July 13, document now contains those “While testifying before “After several meetings Intervention Fund (PAIF) worth meagre 4722.7mw, lowest and 3310.5MW was its lowest who have just renewed their the House, on the adoption and engagements, it was then roughly N300 billion, through generation was 3442.5mw, generation. licences, which had earlier of electronic transmission of recommended that the ‘INEC/ the Nigerian Electricity Market which is a far cry from the Also, the data showed that on expired. results from the units, Maska NCC Joint Technical Committee Stabilisation Facility (NEMSF), almost 30,000 minimum power July 18th, peak generation was The commission noted claimed that the 2018 Technical should consider and adopt the valued at N213 billion and the needed to electrify the country 4915.8MW, lowest generation that the corporate meter Report of the NCC showed that traditional data communication N140 billion Solar Connection at every point. was 3.413.3MW, while total installers were classified into only about ‘50 per cent of the service from MNOs using APN Intervention Facility (SCIF). The system operator put the generation capacity stood at several groups, with class A1 polling units had 3G while 49 as the most appropriate solution Added to that, the apex bank nation’s peak demand forecast 7652.6mw. certification authorising a holder per cent had 2G network and for the electronic transmission of has spent over N600 billion to for that day at 28850mw, Not much has been heard to undertake installations at grid below.’ His answers and body election results.” augment tariff shortfall, plus a although grid generation concerning the deal signed voltages exceeding five grid language clearly betrayed his According to the caucus, recent N120 billion intervention installed capacity still remained between the government metering systems; low voltage intense desire to mislead the “the icing on the cake” was the designed for mass metering, at 13,014 and transmission and Siemens last year, to single and three phase metering House and the nation. categorical declaration by INEC, which is currently being wheeling capacity peaked at overhaul the power sector, systems, including high voltage “He cleverly sought to rely through its spokesman, Festus deployed in the country. 8100MW. although the Special Adviser maximum demand installation on 2018 data in 2021, when Okoye, that the commission has The World Bank recently According to the TCN, all- to the Minister of Power on exceeding 750 metering systems. they knew or ought to know the capacity to transmit election projected that the federal time peak ever attained in the Media and Communication, Nigeria currently has a that internet penetration has results from any part of the government could be paying country was 5801.6MW. It was Mr. Aaron Artimas, assured rough energy mix, which is advanced substantially in Nigeria country, no matter the terrain. as much as N3.4 trillion by 2023 same on July 15, when peak Nigerians last week that the dominated by thermal, mostly since 2018. The opposition lawmakers if the current shortfall persisted. generation was only 4594.3MW, deal had not been called off. gas-to-power of 75 per cent “Indeed, a perusal of NCC said, Okoye’s confirmation “has According to the Washington- lowest power generated was Meanwhile, the Nigerian and hydro (water) of about website even today shows that put the final nail on the coffin based institution, only 22 per 3419.8MW and highest voltage Electricity Regulatory 25 per cent power generating the Nigerian National Broadband of the purveyors of the fallacy cent of the poorest households recorded stood at 351kv, Commission (NERC) has sources, although there have Plan 2020-2025 (P .33) says that that it cannot be done,” recalling has access to electricity, with according to the NESO data. released an updated list been recent noticeable attempts by September 2019, the spread that electronic transmission was Nigeria now having the largest Similarly, on July 16, peak of Meter Asset Providers to rev up solar power use in of 3G/LTE had reached 74.2 per recently deployed by INEC in number of ‘unelectrified’ people generation was 4042.4MW, (MAP), comprising 15 meter far-flung rural areas by the Rural cent in Nigeria.” Edo, Ondo, Borno, Kaduna globally after overtaking the while lowest generation was manufacturers, 23 importers, Electrification Agency (REA). The caucus also recalled that a elections, etc. THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 2021 41 NEWSXTRA Lawyer Calls on Germany to Stop Igboho’s Extradition from Benin Republic

Lawyer to Sunday Adeyemo, also the fugitive will not get justice already has application before ICC the International Criminal Court on Monday, announced that he in a statement issued by his Com- known as Sunday Igboho, a Yoruba because of discrimination and/or duly acknowledged. duly acknowledged,” he said. along with other Yoruba patriots munications Manager, Mr. Maxwell activist, Mr. Yomi Alliyu, has called undue delay in prosecution, the “I call upon you to rise up and Meanwhile, Emeritus Professor were working to provide assistance Adeleye. on the Germany and Benin Republic host country should not release the curb the impunity of the Nigerian Banji Akintoye, a renowned historian to Igboho to prevent his extradition He called on all to prevent the extradition of Igboho fugitive. Now, Article 20 of African Government by refusing any applica- and Leader of the umbrella body of into Nigeria, in Nigeria and in the Diaspora to to Nigeria. In a statement issued Charter on Human and Peoples tion for extradition of our Client who Yoruba Self-Determination Groups, “Benin Republic is a land that ensure that their ancestral land is yesterday, the lawyer said that his Rights to which the four countries already has an application before while confirming Igboho’s arrest respects the rules of law,” he said not defeated by invaders. client and wife, a German citizen, are signatories made agitation for were arrested by the Interpol in self-determination a fundamental Benin while on their way to right to be protected by all countries. Germany. This made Chief Sunday Adeyemo According to Alliyu, his client’s a political offender who cannot be arrest was facilitated by Interpol deported and/or extradited by the in collaboration with the Nigerian good people of the Republic of Benin government. He declared that for any reason. Ighoho cannot be extradited to “Secondly, that he cannot get Nigeria because of the extradition Justice or can even be killed is ap- treaty of 1984 between Togo, Nigeria, parent in how those arrested in his Ghana and Republic of Benin. house were detained for more than He therefore called on the 21days now without access to their Germany government and Benin lawyers. Even the wife among them Republic to prevent the extradition could not change her undies for of Igboho to Nigeria. 21days! Which inhuman treatment His statement reads: “It is a shock- can be more this? ing news that Nigerian Government “Again another wife of our client, has gotten Chief Sunday Adeyemo Mrs Ropo Adeyemo, a German a.k.a Sunday Igboho was arrested Citizen, has been arrested together by Interpol in Republic of Benin with her husband in Cotonou. notwithstanding the political nature What offence has she committed of his offence and what the DSS to warrant this? earlier said that they refrained from “We urge the good government arresting him so as not to overheat of the Republic of Benin and the the polity of South-western Nigeria. international community, especially “The Extradition Treaty of 1984 Germany, to rise up and curb the between Togo, Nigeria, Ghana and impunity of the Nigerian Govern- Republic of Benin excluded political ment by refusing any application SECURITY GETS BOOST fugitives. It also states that where for extradition of our Client who L-R: Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo; Chairman, Senate Committee on the Navy, Senator George Sekibo; Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo; and Chairman, House Committee on the Navy, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, during inauguration of the nation’s newest and most sophisticated maritime surveillance system, “The Falcon Eye”, at the Naval Headquarters in Abuja IG: I will … recently Prioritise Police Eid-el-Kabir: El- Rufai, Mohammed, AbdulRazaq, Yahaya, Ndume Call for Peace, Tolerance Welfare The Governor, Mr. security agencies were intensifying Islam propagates total submission that have direct bearings on the Nasir El-Rufai, that of Bauchi anti-banditry operations to secure to the will of Allah. lives of the people and explained Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri his resolve to restore the pri- State, Senator Bala Abdulkadir communities. He urged the Muslims faithful that state government was not macy of the Nigeria Police in Mohammed, Al- The message, which was signed to give gifts with no consideration unmindful of the economic the security architecture of the haji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, by the Special Adviser on Media to religious, ethnic or political hardship being experienced by The Inspector General of country. Governor, Mr. and Communication to the State coloration and advised them to the generality of the people, which Police(IGP), Alkali Baba, has He told the officers that he was Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and Governor, Mr. Muyiwa Adekeye, use the Salah to strengthen the he attributed to the COVID-19 promised to make welfare of at the Command to eat and dine former Senate Leader, Senator Ali urged Muslims “to emulate the existing interpersonal relationships pandemic disease. policemen and officers his top with the men – in the spirit of Ndume, have called on Muslims example of faith and sacrifice that and create new ones, adding that Mohammed described the priority. Sallah – in order to boost their to promote peaceful coexistence Sallah symbolises.” “there is also the need for us to situation as temporary and ap- The IGP gave the promise morale and show them that the between them and adherents of The governor urged the imbibe the spirit of forgiveness, pealed to the citizens to persevere, in Maiduguri yesterday while High Command of the Force and other faiths for the socio-economic “Muslim community to keep humility and respect for one adding that, “as a responsive celebrating the Eid-el-Kabir the federal government always development of the country. They hope alive, and to celebrate another.” government, we will continue festival with officers and men have them in mind. made the call in their separate the Eid el-Kabir in compliance The governor equally called for to render palliative measures of the police in the state and Earlier in his speech, the messages to felicitate with Muslims with public health guidelines more prayers for the prevailing with a view to cushioning the those deployed to the Special newly promoted Assistant to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir. prescribed to protect everyone peace in the state to be sustained effects of the hardship.” Force. Inspector-General of Police, AIG El-Rufai commended the from the very infectious Delta and for adequate rainfall for the Similarly, AbdulRazaq said: The IGP, while commending Bello Makwashi, restated the “resilience of citizens in these variant COVID-19 that is already state to have a bumper harvest. “It is a message of peace. There the officers and men of the Borno commitment of the Command tough times and prayed for the circulating in some states in the He reiterated his administra- is no alternative to peace. This State Police Command for their to tackle crime and criminality blessings of Allah for the immense country.” tion’s commitment to serve the is a State of Harmony, and we resilience gallantry and dedication and bring them to the barest sacrifices that they are making.” On his part, Mohammed good people of the state and take should let it remain so. Our to duty, promised to make the minimum. He also appealed for the has urged Muslims to promote them to greater heights, explaining founding fathers worked so hard welfare of the personnel a top He, however, appealed for the observance of COVID-19 protocols peaceful coexistence between them that his administration has made to entrench peace in the state, priority, this he said was evident continued support of the IGP as Muslim faithful celebrate and adherents of other faiths for modest efforts in infrastructural and we will continue to promote in the effort he had put in so in the provision of logistics and Eid-el-Kabir. the socio-economic development development, education, health, the peace and unity in our dear far, which had resulted in the other necessities. Highlights of The governor appealed to of the state. youth empowerment and agri- state. It is a new frontier. Security settlement of the arrears of allow- the event was the sharing and all communities in the state to Mohammed in his message, culture, which are critical to the wise, we have seen improvements ances hitherto owed personnel eating of Sallah meat, food and uphold peace and harmony, which was signed by his Special development of the state. across the country. We are certain on special duty to the State. drinks by both senior and junior despite the security challenges Adviser on Media, Mr. Mukhtar The governor pledged to that the situation will continue The police boss re-emphasised police officers. in many communities, adding that Gidado, said as religion of peace, continue developmental projects to get better.” Attacks: Fulani, Irigwe, Bache Youths Sign Pact in Plateau

Seriki Adinoyi in Jos social media activities that could The event was facilitated by HD Afolabi said the responsible media to cause attacks/reprisal peace movements, promote violent cause disaffection and crises among Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue use of social media would assist against community members across agenda, and a vehicle to convey the youths of the area. and funded by the European Union. in addressing conflicts around board is of great concern to the inaccurate information, but can Youths from the Fulani, Irigwe and They would also serve as peace Speaking at the event via the world, but its wrong use will organisation. also be used positively to promote Bache extraction of Bassa Local ambassadors to preach against the zoom from Abuja, HD’s African destroy the society. In his remarks, the Director-Gen- peace. Government Area of Plateau State posting of harmful materials that Regional Director, Babatunde He added that the programme eral of Plateau State Information, The state Governor, Simon yesterday signed a social media are inimical to the society and Afolabi, expressed the hope that was facilitated by HD to stop the Communication and Technology Lalong, who was represented by dialogue peace pact to boost peaceful coexistence. the ongoing and future dialogue escalation of crisis from Bassa to Development Agency (PICTDA), the Director-General of Plateau State peaceful coexistence among them Prior to the signing of the agree- processes initiated by HD would other local government areas of David Daser, said social media Peace Building Agency, Mr. Joseph in the area. ment, the youths had attended a ensure that social media compo- the state. is like a double-edged sword Lengmang, said the purpose of By the agreement signed by three-month training where they nents or clauses as well as code While commending the signato- possessing the capacity to defend the agreement signing would be representatives of the tribes, which were taught on different aspects of conduct that will guide youths’ ries of the social media agreement or destroy. defeated if after the event crises took place in Jos, the youths have regarding their mandate and other behavioural pattern are made a for their commitment, Afolabi He said it has been used to and attacks are still recorded in agreed to check and regulate their execution framework. priority. observed that the use of online help polarise the society, thwart communities again. 42 THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 2021 NEWSXTRA 50 Die from Cholera Outbreak in Jigawa Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano persons have been hospitalised in Dutse, Kirikasamma, Birnin Kudu treatment in government hospitals He alleged the possibility of the state government was on top the past two months in the state. and Ringim were some of the out of the 2,000 infected cases. water contamination from an of the situation and has been Mu’azu said that most of the areas that were worst hit by the The permanent secretary, who area where people practiced open providing necessary assistance to The Permanent Secretary, Jigawa infected cases were children in outbreak. could not identify the cause of defecation near the locations water residents of the affected areas, State Ministry of Health, Dr. nine local government areas of He disclosed that some had the outbreak, insisted that the vendors collected and circulated adding that the UNICEF has Salisu Mu’azu, has confirmed the state. been discharged while others Hadejia case could be linked to water to residents of Hadejia town. supplied medications with a that outbreak of cholera has He said in an interview with are still receiving free medical water pollution. Mu’azu, however, stated that promise to send more. killed at least between 40 and BBC Hausa that was monitored 50 persons while more than 2,000 yesterday in Kano that Hadejia, Group Mobilises over $1m for Vulnerable Persons in North-East Michael Olugbode in Abuja funding, FAO would increase the capacity for production and The European Civil Protection provision of environment-friendly and Humanitarian Aid Operations fuel-efficient stoves (FES) largely to (ECHO) has mobilised over women, noting that availability of $1 million for the Food and the FES is expected to reduce the Agriculture Organisation (FAO) women’s exposure to protection to enhance food production and risks which are associated with mitigate protection risks among frequent foray into insurgents- households affected by insurgency infested forests for firewood. and COVID-19 pandemic in the Kafeero recalled that recent North-eastern states of Borno, studies by FAO revealed that Adamawa and Yobe. households that use the FES have A statement issued yesterday by reduced their trips to the forests the FAO Representative in Nigeria for firewood by 50 percent, while and the Economic Community of they also save about 50 percent West African State (ECOWAS), from the cost of firewood. Fred Kafeero, said the funding According to him, “This is the latest of ECHO’s support funding, which is a continuation of BIG BROTHER SEASON 6... to restore livelihoods and build ECHO’s long-standing support to resilience in the war-torn region. FAO in Nigeria, will significantly L-R: Head, Media and Marketing, Patricia, Rotimi Ogunwede; Executive Head of Content and West Africa Channels, MultiChoice Kafeero said through the contribute to the recovery and Nigeria, Busola Tejumola; Chief Customer Officer, MultiChoice Nigeria, Martin Mabutho; and Head of Business Development, funding, FAO would further resilience building efforts in the Abeg App, Ayo Akinola at the Big Brother Season 6 Media Briefing held in Lagos…recently SUNDAY ADIGUN strengthen the essential functioning North-east region.” of the food security sector, a multi- He revealed that working partner unit, which coordinates the in close collaboration with the provision of food and livelihood Nigerian Government at national assistance to millions of affected and sub-national levels, FAO Kwara Holdings Lauds AbdulRazaq for households in the region. would implement the initiative He noted that the funding in partnership with local and would also support the restoration international development partners of agricultural livelihoods and to ensure its sustainability. Paying Workers Six Months’ Salaries improvement of protection The latest cadre harmonised of women and men through analysis results have projected that Hammed Shittu in also stated that the gesture had recent approval of disbursement elated mood into the Sallah the provision of quality and over four million persons will be assisted the company to offset all of bailout funds to the company. celebrations. improved agricultural inputs for in dire need of food assistance other outstanding entitlements, “We are sincerely grateful “The buck now stops on food production during the 2021 in the crisis most affected states The management of the Kwara including the ones inherited from as this is not the first time we our table. We will always take rainy and dry seasons farming. of Borno, Adamawa and -owned company, Har- the previous administration. would be benefitting from the responsibility and ensure the Kafeero added that this would between June and August 2021, mony Holdings Limited(HHL), He said the intervention of governor’s magnanimity. turnaround of the investment be combined with the provision an increase of about 19 percent yesterday lauded the state the governor in fulfilling these “Part of the funds have been portfolios under the Holdco of extension services through the from the same period last year, Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman outstanding salaries and other judiciously used to pay the six despite the daunting challenges establishment of farmer field with the recent gains achieved AbdulRazaq, for approving the entitlements was timely, as the months outstanding salaries of we inherited. One step at a time, schools. in the region by humanitarian disbursement of bailout funds staff members now carry delight- workers as well as several years we will clear all the mess.” The country representative actors eroded by the COVID-19 to pay the six months’ outstand- ful expression into the Eid el of other entitlements, including Meanwhile, the GMD/CEO also said under the same ECHO pandemic. ing salaries of the company’s Kabir celebration in the state. the ones inherited from the explained that the payment of workers. Abdulmajeed added: “On previous administration dating all the dues would be followed In a statement issued in Ilorin behalf of Harmony Holdings back to 2018. up by restructuring to enable by the Group Managing Director Limited, I offer deep apprecia- “This intervention could not the company meet its overhead Taraba to Host Pilot Wet of HHL, Mallam Abdullahi Ab- tions to His Excellency, Governor have come at a better time as and ensure a sustainable system, dulmajeed, and made available AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who our staff members are now adding that same will cascade to Season Rice Project to journalists, the management is also our business owner, for his smiling to the banks and in all the strategic business units. Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The farmers are to produce high quality and quantity of paddy rice for processors to get is to host the wet high milling outturn which will Eid-El-Kabir: Enugu CP Assures Residents season rice planting programme, increase the profit margin of the which is designed to create women and youths. employment and entrepreneurial Project Coordinator, Fevick opportunities for 1,000 women Resources, Samuel Oluwafemi of Adequate Security and youths in the pilot phase. Adeshina told journalists in The initiative will create strong Abuja, yesterday that the Gideon Arinze in Enugu IGP. Usman Alkali Baba, to beef strategies already in place in Muslims in the state and urged and effective linkages to quality new wet season rice farming up security during and beyond the command. them to celebrate responsibly, agro-input and services, including project would link farmers to the festive period. “He further tasks them to amid the confirmation of the mechanisation, credit, insurance, The Commissioner of Police, The commissioner, according adequately supervise their ‘most transmissible’ Delta vari- new technologies and high yield Enugu State Police Command, technology, information, and seedlings. to the statement, has in line subordinates and ensure they ant of the COVID-19 pandemic market for rural farmers to Mr. Mohammed Ndatsu Aliyu, with the directive ordered the conduct themselves in the most disease in the country. Adeshina said: “We can derive has assured residents in the state improve their livelihoods and six to seven metric tonns of rice area commanders, divisional professional manner, whilst He tasked them to use the build sustainable agriculture. of adequate protection of lives police officers and heads of ensuring maximum crime period of the celebration to per hectares by introducing new and property during and after It will be a sustainable rice varieties of very high yielding tactical and operational units prevention and order at security reflect and pray for the security transformational programme the Eid-el-Kabir celebration. of the command to deploy all flashpoints, including major and peace of the state and the seedlings.” A statement made available to which empowers clusters of According to him, this variety operational resources at their highways, streets, public places country. women and youth agripreneurs newsmen by the Police Public disposal. of worship and convenience, He also charged residents in of rice seedlings will be tested to Relations Officer, Enugu State farming together on a contiguous determine the ruggedness, virility He also charged them to markets, as well as sites of criti- the state to remain law-abiding, arable farmland to produce high Police Command, ASP. Daniel further collaborate with other cal public infrastructures within vigilant and promptly report and flood resistance to see how Ndukwe, said that the assurance quality and quantity of paddy they will survive in submerged security agencies to intensify their areas of responsibility” the suspected criminals and their rice for processing during the was in line with the order of the existing proactive and statement read. activities to the nearest police areas during serious flood and the Inspector-General of Police, wet season farming. ozone depletion. confidence-building policing Aliyu also felicitated with station. THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 2021 43 NEWSXTRA Flawed Primaries: ADC Urges INEC to Bar APGA, PDP, APC from Anambra Poll David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka 2021, governorship election in in the forthcoming election, system of this state for many happy with the ruling party in both PDP and APC have lost Anambra State. and we know our candidate, decades, and we have always the state (APGA). the confidence of the people, “If after 22 years of practicing Akachukwu Nwankpo, has all participated actively in the state “We are working with a lot of so the next option is the third The national leadership of the democracy we cannot do the right it takes to govern the state. transition process, so I can tell people to sack APGA in Anambra most popular political party in African Democratic Congress thing, then we are doomed. INEC “We have been in the political you that the people are not State, and you already know that the country, which is the ADC.” (ADC) has urged the Independent must learn to sanction people National Electoral Commission and parties because none of (INEC) to prevent three political these three political parties had parties from participating in a primary election. the upcoming Anambra State “That is why they are in governorship election. court today fighting over who The National Chairman of the the authentic candidates are. party, Mr. Ralphs Okey Nwosu, We’re not the people that told who briefed journalists in Awka, them to have several factions of the state capital, yesterday, the same party, so we should not alleged that the three political be held down by their troubles.” parties breached the law by not On whether the party (ADC) conducting primary elections or is considering going to court to did not conduct the elections stop the parties aforementioned within the guidelines of the from contesting in the election, electoral body. Nwosu said his party is rather He said the three political engaging in the sensitisation of parties are: All Progressives the public on the reason they Grand Alliance (APGA), Peoples should jettison the parties. Democratic Party (PDP), and All He said: “We are talking to the Progressives Congress (APC). people, and sensitising them on According to him, “What these why these political parties should parties held were not primary not be voted into power in the elections, and they should not state. ADC has a strong chance participate in the November 6, Muslims Mark Eid-el- Kabir With Congregational Prayers in Niger

Laleye Dipo in Minna and unity in the state and Nigeria as a whole. Kolo also told Muslim faithful Hundreds of Muslims yesterday to pray for the return of peace to thronged to various the Eid- Prayer areas under bandit attacks and grounds in Minna to offer prayers the release of all those in the to Allah in commemoration of this captivity of bandits, especially the year’s Eid-il Kabir festival. girls of Salihu Tanko Islamiyya They include prominent Nige- School, Tegina, in the Rafi Local rians like former Military Head Government Area of the state. OUR MANIFESTO... of State, General Abdulsalami He said: “We should remember Abubakar, the Governor of Niger to always be our brothers’ keeper All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate for Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government Area, Prince Usman Akanbi State, Mr. Abubakar Sani Bello, the by supporting the less privileged Hamzat (left); and his running mate, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Awoniyi Akerele, during the unveiling of their manifesto titled, H.E.E.D.S Deputy Governor of Niger State, ones among us always at the headquarters of the Ifako-Ijaiye in Lagos…recently ABAYOMI AKINYELE Mr. Ahmed Mohammed Ketso, a He also used the occasion to sue former Niger State Governor, Dr. for peaceful congresses across the Muazu Babangida Aliyu among state by urging members of the others who attended the two rakkat All Progressive Congress (APC) prayer that were led by the Chief to shun any act that could lead BBNaija Season 6 Premieres July 24 Imam of Minna Central Mosque, to a breakdown of law and order Alhaji Ibrahim Abu Fari. anywhere in the state. Fari also slaughtered the first Kolo also solicited for the sup- with Double Launch Show ram to allow other Muslims to port and cooperation of the people perform the rites after. for the administration of Governor Following the conclusion of the Family channels. And for the season, we are pulling all the stops The 10-week-long reality televi- In his sallah message the Special Bello to enable him complete the Adviser on Political and Strategy open call auditions in May 2021, first time, BBNaija fans in the to give our customers a show sion show will follow the lives task of revamping the economy all is now set for the premiere of United Kingdom will have access never before seen from Nigeria of strangers as they interact and to the State Governor, Mr. Nma of state, saying a lot has been Kolo, asked the people of the state the sixth season of the Africa’s to the show via the African online with end-to-end production best compete with each other to win done in the areas of provision biggest reality television show, streaming service, Showmax, live. practices under global health and the grand prize of N90million, to use the Eid il Kabir festival to of infrastructure especially the pray for the restoration of peace Big Brother Naija, this month. Speaking on the premiere of the safety standards.” which is the biggest in reality construction of roads. For its sixth season, BBNaija will show, the Chief Executive Officer Meanwhile, the MultiChoice television show reward on the feature a special double launch of MultiChoice Nigeria, John also announced that there continent of Africa. show on July 24, and 25, 2021. Ugbe, said: “With each season wouldn’t be text message voting The Big Brother Naija season 6 Both shows will be aired from of BBNaija, we task ourselves on for this season, adding that all will run 24/7 on DStv Premium, Zulum, Shettima, 7p.m. on DStv channel 198 and delivering great content that will voting will be on the Big Brother Compact Plus, Compact, Confam GOtv channel 29 with a simulcast take the excitement a notch higher Naija website and mobile site and Yanga packages on channel IG Lead VIPs to Eid on Africa Magic Showcase, Africa and meet the entertainment needs as well as on the MyDStv and 198 and on GOtv Max and Jolli Prayers in Maiduguri Magic Urban and Africa Magic of our customers. For this sixth MyGOtv apps. packages on channel 29. Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri Representative, Mr. Mohammed Monguno, the Speaker of Borno Imansuagbon Decries Viral Video, Says State House of Assembly, Mr. The Governor of Borno State, Abdulkarim Lawan and the Professor Babagana Zulum, the Borno State Chairman of the Esans Are Loyal to Oba of Benin Senator Representing Borno All Progressive Congress (APC), Central, Mr, , Mr. Ali Bukar Dalori. Adibe Enenyonu in Benin-city requires urgent mental medical kingdom, which, therefore, makes The statement read: “I was and the Inspector General of The eid prayer, which was evaluation.” them brothers and sisters with shocked while watching the video Police, IGP. Baba Alkali, yesterday Imansuangbon noted that the the Benin people. and listening to the rubbish the held at Ramat Square, was led The Proprietor of Pacesetters led top government officials (Edo Central) and Imansuagbon in a statement lunatic was saying. The Esan and by Imam Idaini of Borno, Mr. Group of Schools, Abuja, and and other Muslim faithful to Afemai hold the revered Benin signed and made available to the Benin people are brothers. It is Shettima Mamman Saleh. politician, Mr. Kenneth Imansu- perform two Rak’at Eid Prayers monarch and the state Governor, journalists in Benin-city, added a fact that was passed to us from Saleh, in his sermon, urged angbon, has reacted to a trending in Maiduguri. Godwin Obaseki, in high esteem. that the Esan people globally many generations, and nothing Muslim faithful to pray for peace video, ‘where a man of Esan in Other prominent personalities The former Peoples Democratic pledged their loyalty to the Oba can change that. Whatever he said to return to the state and the Edo State extraction poured that participated in the prayers Party (PDP) governorship aspirant of Benin and Obaseki. should not be taken seriously. country in general.The celebration invectives on the Oba of Benin, were The Shehu of Borno, Al- in the September 19, 2020, Edo While noting that the viral video “Giving him such level of was peaceful in the town but His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba haji Garbai Elkanemi, Senator State governorship election said was provoking, he added that the recognition by listening to his the faithful had to take a long N’Edo, Oba Ewuare II’, saying Representing Southern Borno, there was no doubts that the Esan comment does not represent the rubbish talk is to make him trek to the Eid grounds across the fellow must be completely Senator , and the Afemai people draw their Esan people or any well-meaning feel important. He should just the town with the banning of ignored as “it is evident that he the Chief Whip of the House of vehicular movement. linage from the respected Benin Edo indigene. be ignored for who he is. 44 THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 2021 NEWSXTRA Imo PDP Passes Vote of Confidence on Members in House of Assembly Party accuses Uzodimma of eroding democratic principles

Amby Uneze in Owerri and balances by arrogating to of Assembly as the trailblazer in which preclude his suspension the suspension and allow the representing Ezinihitte Mbaise, himself the combined powers the ugly practice. from office for the reasons stated lawmakers to continue to carry alleged that the suspension was The Imo State Chapter of the and authorities over the other “We have it in good authority by the speaker. out the task of representing the an attempt to intimidate minority Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) arms of government. that the minority leader is a “As a party, we condemn in people and making laws for the lawmakers who have vehemently has passed a vote of confidence The Imo State Chairman of the principal officer of the legislature its entirety the said suspension proper functioning of Imo state.” refused to compromise their on her members in the State PDP, Mr. Charles Ugwuh, who and by virtue of the elevated and urge the speaker to as a Also speaking, the Minority conscience at the expense of House of Assembly (SHA), addressed newsmen on Monday office, he has some privileges matter of urgency withdraw Leader, Hon. Anyadike Nwosu, their legislative responsibilities. praising them for defending the at the party’s secretariat in Ow- tenets of democratic principles as erri, said that the suspension of well as being effective legislators. six lawmakers by the Speaker of Meanwhile both members the SHA, Hon. Paul Emeziem, of the PDP and the minority was unlawful, unconstitutional, caucus in the state assembly illegal and unacceptable because condemned vehemently the principal officers of any legislature suspension of two members should not be suspended without in the SHA. the benefit of fair hearing. The party also accused the Ugwuh said: “Our party is Governor of Imo State, Senator most appalled that such anomaly Hope Uzodimma, of corroding has been allowed to be recorded the democratic principles of in the annals of the Nigerian separation of powers and checks legislature, with the Imo House Anambra Guber: Moghalu Asks Court to Delist Uba, APC from Race Alex Enumah in Abuja aspirants who purchased forms to contest for the governorship election under the platform of the An aggrieved aspirant in the APC, specifically asked the court forthcoming governorship to declare that the APC failed to EID MUBARAK... election in Anambra State, Mr. conduct a valid primary election L-R: Chief Press Secretary to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Mr. Gboyega Akosile; his son, Timilehin Akosile; daughter, George Moghalu, has dragged in line with the provisions of the Nusirat Akosile; and Fawaz Akosile at the 2021 Eid-el-Fitri celebration held at Alausa Central Mosque in Lagos….recently his party, the All Progressives 1999 constitution as ammended, SUNDAY ADIGUN Congress (APC), before the the Electoral Act and the APC’s Abuja division of the Federal constitution and guidelines for High Court, over an alleged election and demanded the sum failure of the party to conduct of N122.5 million damages from a valid primary election for the APC. Buhari Felicitates With Ex-Minister, the selection\nomination of He claimed that the sum of the party’s candidate in the N22.5 million was meant for November 6 governorship the refund of payment for the election in Anambra State. Mamman, At 80 expression of interest form and Moghalu, in the suit dated and nomination form. filed July 8, 2021 by his lawyer, He is also asking the court Deji Elumoye in Abuja Buhari, in a congratulatory to Nigeria throughout the length many years of experience as Mr. Chris Uche, SAN, asked the to order the APC to pay him message that was issued yes- of his career as a military officer a military officer, businessman court to compel the Independent another sum of N100 million as terday by his Media Adviser, that distinguished him as a and administrator to bear in President Muhammadu Buhari National Electoral Commission “exemplary and general damages Mr. Femi Adesina, offered his courageous and dependable handling the affairs of his has felicitated with the former (INEC) to delist the name of Mr. for the breach of contract to com- best wishes to the traditional commander at various levels as community, working tirelessly Minister of Internal Affairs Andy Uba and the APC from mence and conclude primary ruler and member of the defunct a troop and brigade commander to promote peace, prosperity and His Royal Highness, Etsu among the list of political parties election and or breach of Section Armed Forces Ruling Council to the commander, Corps of and social cohesion. Nyagba Kingdom in Niger and gubernatorial candidates for 87 of the Electoral Act, 2010 (as (AFRC) on the occasion of his Artillery and commandant, The President prayed God State, Major General Abdullahi the November 6 election or any amended) and the regulations birthday. Command and Staff College, Jaji. Almighty to bless the traditional Mamman (rtd), as he celebrated subsequent postponement. and guidelines of the political He recognised Mamman’s He applauded the elder ruler with more years of health his 80th birthday anniversary. Moghalu, who was among 14 party.” strong sense of duty and service statesman for bringing his and happiness. Global Warming: Green Obaseki Hails Momodu on Sahara, Forest Action to Reforest Plateau, Others Emergence as THISDAY Daily Editor Seriki Adinoyi in Jos a total area of 1,250 meant to Congratulates Edo sons, Iriekpen, Eromosele on new roles benefit the economy of farmers that embrace the programme. Adibe Emenyonu in other Edo sons, Mr. Davidson reporter to this exalted position pen, who hails from Green Sahara Farms Limited The general manager of Iriekpen as Editor of THISDAY, in the THISDAY stables. LGA and Eromosele, from Esan based in Jos, Plateau State, in col- Green Sahara explained that the The Edo State Governor, Mr. Sunday title and Mr. Abiodun “The promotion of Momodu, West LGA, have distinguished laboration with an international programme is using Forest Action partner, Forest Action based in Godwin Obaseki, has congratu- Eromosele as the newspaper’s Iriekpen and Eromosele is a testa- themselves in the profession and in France to run the programme lated Mr. Shaka Momodu, an Group Business Editor. ment to the Edo spirit of hard are deserving of the honour. France, is set to reforest the state in the country, and it is the first and other North-central states by indigene of , According to him, “I am elated work, diligence and excellence. “I appreciate the Board of in a very long time. by the promotion of Mr. Shaka We are proud of their attainment, THISDAY Newspapers for planting 25 million trees. He added that the programme Local Government Area (LGA) Disclosing this in Jos during a was starting with 250,000 trees, of Edo State, on his promotion Momodu to the new position. as they have become shining recognising and rewarding the stakeholders’ meeting, the Gen- and the target for the first phase as the Daily Editor of THISDAY A brilliant and thorough-bred examples to our young ones, hard work demonstrated by these eral Manager of Green Sahara, is 10 million trees while the next Newspaper. journalist; he is deserving of who are desirous of notable Edo sons in contributing to the Mr. Rayandy Chuwang, said the phase is 25 million trees. The governor, in a statement, the new assignment after rising role models.” growth of the media enterprise,” meeting was part of advocacy The stakeholders involved in also hailed the elevation of two through the ranks as a rookie The governor noted that Iriek- Obaseki added. and sensitisation ahead of the the project include France- based reforestation so as to bring out Forest Action, a non-governmen- the grey areas as well as the tal organisation that promotes productive nature of the scheme. agro forestry globally alongside Landlord Killed in Two-storey Building Collapse in Lagos Chuwang said the project Green Sahara, the project leaders, would begin in July this year, and partners from the Ministry and it’s expected to last for two of Environment, College of Rebecca Ejifoma about 2.30 p.m. Farinloye hinted that the col- before starting construction and years, during which a total of Forestry, Federal College of The Southwest Zonal Coor- lapsed building was an attachment poor building materials. 250,000 trees of different species Land Resources Technology A Landlord and Pastor, Mr. Daniel dinator, National Emergency to the main building in front of One of the neighbours, name will be integrated. in Kuru, and the sustainable Management Agency (NEMA), the collapsed structure. withheld, disclosed that construc- He added that during the Obasi, was killed yesterday after development goals in Plateau his two-storey building under Mr. Ibrahim Farinloye, said that He attributed the collapse of the tion works were suspended today first year of the project, the State that will carry out the pilot trees would be planted within construction collapsed at 77, the police had taken the body building to inadequate timeline due to the Eid-el-Kabir celebration, scheme to encourage farmers in Tapa Road,, Oke Ojo Isawo in to the Ikorodu General Hospital that would have allowed sand- adding that “workers were at individual agricultural plots the country to plant trees and owned by 2,500 growers with other economic crops. Ikorodu area of Lagos State at morgue. filled land to compact properly work yesterday till late evening.” THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 2021 45 NEWSXTRA Police Rescue 100 Kidnapped Victims in Zamfara The police in Zamfara State have and Home Affairs, adding that the of Mutunji district in Dansadau males and children.” before being reunited with their The command uses this medium to rescued 100 captives abducted by victims had spent 42 days with the Emirate of Maru local govern- According to him, the victims, respective families. call on the good people of Zamfara bandits in the Dansadau area of abductors before they were rescued. ment area of the State. It could who were in custody of their ab- “The Commissioner of Police, state to support the police and other Maru Local Government Area of Shehu said: “The Zamfara state be recalled that on 8th June, 2021, ductors for 42 days, were released Mr. Hussaini Rabiu, warned the security agencies with credible the state. Zamfara police command police in collaboration with the state some recalcitrant bandits stormed without giving any financial or recalcitrant bandits to renounce information about the hideouts, spokesman, Muhammad Shehu, ministry for security and home Manawa village, and abducted 100 material gain and they will be criminalities and embrace peace movements and other activities disclosed this in a statement in affairs have successfully secured villagers, including nursing mothers, medically checked and debriefed or face the full wrath of the law. of criminal elements,” he said. Gusau, the state capital, saying that the unconditional release of one the rescue was done in collaboration hundred kidnapped victims who with the state Ministry of Security were abducted from Manawa village Sallah Tragedy: 10 Persons Die in Auto Crash in Kwara Hammed Shittu in Ilorin. confirmed the incident, said that other victims of the crash suffered Ten persons have reportedly died varying degrees of injuries. in an auto crash involving an He gave the registration 18-seater commercial Hiace bus number of the commercial vehicle on yesterday Sallah day in Ilorin, as LND 742XK, saying that the the Kwara State capital. rescue team took the injured THISDAY checks revealed people to Ayo Hospital, Okolowo that the accident occurred at and the state General Hospital, a location called Iyemoja along Ilorin for medical attention. Olooru-Okolowo area of the The FRSC boss also said that Ilorin- expressway in the the corpses had been deposited at Moro Local Government Area the morgue of General Hospital, of the State. Ilorin, commending the officers of The crash, which was report- the Nigeria Police for assistance edly caused by speed violation, rendered during the incident. occurred at about 4:00 pm. He however, cautioned drivers The State Sector Commander against over speeding, saying of the Federal Road Safety Corps that they should obey all traffic (FRSC), Jonathan Owoade, who regulations and be mindful of other road users. EID-EL-KABIR PRAYER... L-R: Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Islamic Matters, Hon. Abdullahi Jebe; Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat and Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, during the Eid-El-Kabir prayer held at the Dodan Barracks Praying Ground, Katsina NUJ Calls Obalende, Lagos...yesterday for Prayers Against Insecurity Lawmaker Urges FG to Provide Internet Francis Sardauna in Katsina the security challenge facing not only Katsina but many other states in Nigeria which necessitated the Coverage for e-Voting in 2027 Apparently worried by the spate cancellation of some interesting of banditry and other nefarious traditional Sallah festivities. activities bedevilling the country, Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti the spirit of democracy. will be shut out of the electoral Diploma holders among Okada “The NUJ therefore urged the The lawmaker representing system. But NCC as a federal riders in the state. the Katsina State Council of the entire citizens to continue to pray Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), for the restoration of peace and Gbonyin/Emure/Ekiti East government’s regulatory agency “This empowerment pro- Federal constituency of Ekiti State, must begin aggressive action that gramme was meant to support has called on Nigerians to intensify stability in Katsina and other A member of House of Rep- said these in Ado Ekiti, while will ensure 100 percent network the commercial motorcyclists in prayers for the restoration of peace neighbouring states. We are also resentatives from Ekiti State, and stability in the states facing distributing free petrol to 1,000 coverage before 2027 elections. Ekiti. They have a population not unaware of the brave and Hon. Femi Bamisile, has tasked the carnage. commercial motorcycle operators Nigeria has no excuse than to of over 15,000 in Ekiti with o tireless efforts being made by our the Nigerian Communications The State Chairman of the security operatives in an efforts to popularly called Okada riders embrace e-voting in 2027,” he er 5,000 parading either BSC Commission (NCC) on aggres- union, Tukur Hassan Dan-Ali, restore peace in the state. in the state capital . said. or HND certificates, so they while felicitating with Muslims sive spread of Information and “We therefore requested Bamisile , who said e-voting is Speaking about the need our support. I am going on the Eid-el-Kabir celebration Communication Technology(ICT) our Members to continue to now what is in vogue globally, humanitarian service to the to do the headcount of HBD in a statement yesterday, urged give proper coverage as well broadband across the country to which he noted Nigeria must people, Bamisile, said a total and BSC holders among them security agencies and govern- as balanced, positive and an accommodate electronic voting embrace, said: “Technology is now of 1,000 Okada riders received and soon, I will do a special ment to intensify effort to ward encouraging reportage of efforts in the 2027 general elections. being adopted for free, fair and free petrol in the first phase of empowerment for these people off banditry and other security being made by the security agents The former Ekiti Speaker, who challenges afflicting the country. credible polls and Nigeria must the programme. that really befits their academic and government in an efforts is the Chairman, Federal Road Dan-Ali said: “As the watch- towards defeating the bandits move with the tide of civilisation. Describing the level of job- status . And those who are not Maintenance Agency (FERMA), dogs of society, journalists in and other enemies of peace in “It is the best option for lessness among the youth in well certificated but has interest clarified that over 37 million Ni- Katsina are very much aware of our dear state.” Nigeria, but a situation where the country as frightening and in skills and vocational training gerians would be disenfranchised only 50 per cent of our voting disturbing, Bamisile stated that will be trained among them. We if electronic voting is adopted for population have access to network he would soon begin a special are also extending the same the impending 2023 polls, which makes it impracticable now. About empowerment programme for gesture to commercial drivers he said was not in tandem with BPE, Quest Electricity Sign 37m of our voting population degree and Higher National in the future,” he stated. Agreement for Yola Disco

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja of the inhabitants in the North No Peace Without Justice over Kanu, East geopolitical zone through aggressive investment drive, The Bureau of Public Enterprises thereby providing an economic Igboho, Ohanaze Tells FG (BPE) and Quest Electricity Ni- tool for combating the insurgency geria Limited,-the new investor in the region. Apex Igbo sociocultural group unwittingly are seen as heroes tions of Pope John Paul II, was “if appeared to fall on deaf ears. in the Yola Electricity Distribution According to him, “this Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide by their people were products you want peace, then work for Then Igboho in a patriotic heroic Company(YEDC) have signed a investment will be utilised for has told the federal government of unjust society. justice” It is an age old maxim zeal intervened to save the rural Share Sale and Purchase Agree- the purpose of carrying out ment (SSPA) for the privatisation an extensive upgrade of the prosecuting the leader of the The statement reads: “Nigeria founded on reason, experience and farmers, women and children of YEDC. company’s electricity distribution Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), security operatives have in recent truth that the only way for peace from the daily menace of the At the agreement-signing network, in order to bring the Nnamdi Kanu and Yoruba Nation time shown that they have teeth to reign in society is for justice herdsmen. ceremony in Abuja, the Director business to the level of financial agitator, Chief Sunday Adeyemo and can bite. to be seen to be served to all. “There is no gainsaying the General of BPE, Mr. Alex Okoh viability.” aka Sunday Igboho would amount “The question on every mouth “We recall that Chief Sunday military operations against the revealed that in addition to paying Okoh added that it is expected to nothing except there is justice. is whether they can apply similar Igboho emerged in the scene Boko Haram in the North East the purchase fee of N19 billion, that this investment will deliver Ohanaeze spokesman, Alex zeal in treating the Boko Haram because he could not endure the of Nigeria but the rate at which the new investor has committed results within a period of five Ogbonnia, said in a statement Kingpins; Fulani Herdsmen; the daily menace of the herdsmen in the herdsmen destroy farm crops, to a performance improvement years. yesterday in Enugu that as long North West Bandits, etc. The the Yoruba localities for a very attack villages, kill the indigenes programme which will involve an These results, he disclosed, investment of US$68m (N28bn) include reduction in ATC & C as the federal government failed to foregoing selective efficiency of long time. The herdsmen would and forcefully occupy their over a period of two years. losses from the current level of address issues of injustice, many the security operatives elicits the kill, maim and rape women at ancestral lands is most callous, In a statement from the 80 per cent (which is the highest “other Kanus and Igbohos will reason for the making of Mazi random. unconscionable and condemnable. privatisation agency, he said in the industry) to 29 per cent sooner than later emerge.” Nnamdi Kanu and Chief Sunday “All entreaties to the presidency This is where the intervention of Quest Electricity was committed hich translates to a 51 per cent According to Ohanaeze, Kanu Adeyemo aka Sunday Igboho. for a swift action against the the presidency is most needed; to improving the quality of life loss reduction. and Igboho who wittingly or “One of the departing admoni- AK-47 wielding herdsmen and of course, the Igboho paradox. 46 WEDNESDAY,  ͺ͹˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email [email protected] THURSDAYSPORTS 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY CAS Rejects Nneka Ogwumike’s Bid to Represent Nigeria at Tokyo 2020 “exceptional change” to Williams has three gold medals eligible to play. 2019, respectively), they recently these two players.” Femi Solaja their national status under with the US from youth World “FIBA acknowledges the requested an exceptional change The Nigerian Basketball with agency report an International Basketball Championships. decision of the Court of of their national status, which Federation had claimed that Federation (FIBA) rule which Chiney Ogwumike, Nneka’s Arbitration for Sport to reject the FIBA declined under the “players of African descent Two women’s basketball players permits switches if it is in the sister who is also a power forward request for provisional measures applicable rules. are approved to play for other have had a last-ditch bid to interest of developing the sport. for the Sparks, has been made filed by Nnemkadi Chinwe “In any event, the players countries constantly but the represent Nigeria at the Olympic Ogwumike and Williams both eligible for the Nigerian team. Ogwumike and Elizabeth Olatayo would have to wait for a reverse is not the case”. Games thrown out by the Court play in the Women’s National The 29-year-old was accepted Williams,” a FIBA statement said. three-year period since their “We do tacitly believe that there of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). Basketball Association (WNBA) as a “naturalised citizen” of “The players had requested that last game with the USA to be are undercurrents and motivation Nneka Ogwumike and so would undoubtedly have Nigeria but this status was also the CAS provisionally accepts the eligible to play at the Olympics, for such a decision which is Elizabeth Williams both improved Nigeria’s squad. challenged at CAS. change of their national status as per bye-law to Rule 41 of the repugnant to natural justice, participated in Olympic qualifying The 30-year-old power forward This is because only one from USA to Nigeria. Olympic Charter. equity and good conscience ,” for the United States before not Ogwumike is on the books of Los naturalised citizen is allowed per “Although both players “The list of players for the the world governing body said. making the American team for Angeles Sparks, while 28-year-old squad, with the trio claiming they had played for USA after the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games Coincidentally, Nigeria’s first the Games starting on Friday. centre Williams plays for Atlanta are all Nigerian citizens through age of 17 and participated in submitted by the Nigeria match at Tokyo 2020 is due to be Both have Nigerian passports Dream. birth because of their parents. the qualifying process to the Basketball Federation to the against the US on July 27. Hosts but players are not usually Ogwumike, the WNBA Third sister Erica Ogwumike, Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games (in Nigeria Olympic Committee Japan and France are the other allowed to switch international champion and MVP in 2016, a WNBA 2020 draftee, is also February 2020 and September and to FIBA does not include teams in their group. allegiances after they turn 17. has won two World Cups and According to insidethegames. a Summer Universiade title with com, the pair requested an the US. AFN Rejects Gusau’s PUMA Kits, Settles for AFA in Tokyo The Athletics Federation of Nigeria that the athletes will be supplied (AFN) has said that Nigeria’s PUMA kits within 72 hours and track and field contingent to that the AFN board will meet in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics which Tokyo, Beyioku says Gusau must starts on Friday will compete be talking about another federation. in kits provided by the Nigeria “Is he the one that organised Olympic Committee (NOC) and the trials where the athletes the Federal Ministry of Youth and were picked? Is he the one that Sports Development. submitted the list of athletes to Prince Adeniyi Adisa Beyioku, the games to the NOC? Is he Secretary General of the federation and his so-called board members insisted yesterday that the athletes accredited for the games? I think like their counterparts in other he is just trying to seek relevance sports are competing under the after finding out the game was ish banner of the NOC and will up,” said Beyioku. t as use the uniforms provided by “AFN President, Tonobok ery the organisation. Okowa and my humble self as kyo “The AFN does not have any the Secretary General have been ries kitting contract with PUMA, the accredited for the games. tes German kits and equipment “The athletes have been given rld manufacturer. There is no copy the AFA kits supplied by the as of any contract at the Secretariat NOC and the Federal Ministry ent of the AFN and the kits and of Youth and Sports Development THE OGWUMIKE SISTERS... equipment purportedly supplied and they are raring to go,” added L-R: Erica, Chiney and Nneka were hoping to represent Nigeria at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics are not in my possession as the Beyioku who advised Gusau not ave chief administrative and accounting to distract the athletes who want hat officer. The 2017 constitution of the to win laurels for the country. me AFN recognises me in article 8.7.2, Meanwhile, the Minister of 2020 Summer Olympics Live on DStv, GOtv t in section 4.4.3 as the custodian of Youth and Sports Development the federation's records, documents Mr. Sunday Dare, has affirmed DSTv and GOtv subscribers event of 2021. Men’s Marathon), as well as Basketball teams, Ghanaian boxer and properties,” said Beyioku. that Team Nigeria was not in the can look forward to the world’s Olympic themed content Zambia’s Copper Queens, who Sulemanu Tetteh, Egypt’s Mandy Continuing, the AFN Secretary Tokyo 2020 Olympics for show, biggest and most diverse will also be available on Catch- upset the odds to qualify for the Mohamed in the Women’s All- General insists if there was indeed but to win laurels for the country celebration of sport, the Summer Up, while a focus on African Women’s Football competition. Around Artistic Gymnastics or a contract , the kits and equipment by competing clean. Olympic Games which will runs athletes which will light up “Whether you are hoping to any other star from our continent should have been deposited at Speaking at a brief ceremony from Friday, 23 July to Sunday, the games has already begun, see South Africa’s Akani Simbine and their journey through Tokyo the Secretariat of the AFN which organised by the Ethiopian Airline 8 August 2021 in Tokyo, Japan. with documentaries on Kenyan challenge for honours in the Men’s 2020, SuperSport is your home is known to World Athletics as to send the Minister and others long-distance running star Eliud 100m, Kenyan Hellen Obiri blitz for all the action!” observed the indicated on the AFN profile page forth, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe A statement from the pay Kipchoge (who is favourite to the field in the Women’s 5000m, message from the broadcast on World Athletics website and International Airport Abuja television broadcast stations defend his Gold Medal in the Nigeria’s Men’s and Women’s stations’ handlers yesterday. in custody of the head of the yesterday, the Minister said: yesterday said DStv will feature Secretariat, the Secretary General.". "We are grateful to the Federal eight dedicated channels for Reacting to a statement by Government, Corporate Nigeria the Games with SuperSport Ibrahim Gusau, the immediate and all those who supported Team Football Plus (DStv channel NFF Vows to Unmask Nigerian Who past president of the federation Nigeria by adopting our athletes. 202) becoming Olympic Channel 1, while SuperSport Premier League (DStv channel 203), La Harassed Falcons in Austria Liga (DStv channel 204), Football The Nigeria Football Federation as he had not touched anyone. case with any of our teams and (DStv channel 205), Variety 1 (NFF) has said that it has His tirade did not unsettle lessons have been learnt and I Want to Play My Best Table (DStv channel 206), Variety 2 initiated moves to ensure the the girls in any way as he was we will be guided appropriately (DStv channel 207), Variety 3 unmasking of the self-acclaimed ignored throughout the trip, going forward. Tennis in Tokyo, Says Omotayo (DStv channel 208) and Variety Nigerian who got on the train and the disciplined response President of the NFF and FIFA 4 (DStv channel 209) become with the Super Falcons in infuriated him the more. Council Member, Mr Amaju Team Nigeria’s Olajide Omotayo Games gold in 2019 has really Vienna, Austria yesterday and However, Nigeria’s FIFA Melvin Pinnick said the NFF will will be making his debut at boosted my confidence going Olympic Channels 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 respectively. made them uncomfortable with Match Agent, Jairo Pachon immediately report the matter to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic into the Olympic Games. The inflammatory political talks. told thenff.comthat the matter world football–governing body, Games; he is eager to establish win made me realise that the GOtv on the other hand will feature four dedicated channels Team officials explained has been immediately reported FIFA and would pursue the case himself as one of Africa’s best impossible is nothing as nobody yesterday afternoon that the girls, to the Austrian Police and the to its logical conclusion. representatives among the array saw the performance coming for the Games, with SuperSport GOtv Football (GOtv channel 31) who had been in the Austrian Embassy of Nigeria, and the “We are infuriated because of stars in Japan. but I knew within me that I capital since Thursday last fellow, who was bundled out these are young ladies who The Lagos State-born athlete am capable of defeating any becoming Olympic Channel1, while GOtv La Liga (GOtv channel week preparing for upcoming of the train at the next station, are our ambassadors and are believes knowing his first-round player in Africa. All I needed international engagements, opted would be fished out. there in Austria preparing for opponent would help him to was to play freely without 32), GOtv Select 1 (GOtv channel 33) and GOtv Select 2 (GOtv to have a view of the city after “It is unfortunate. The girls major international competitions. strategize his fate in Tokyo. thinking about the podium. I their morning training, and were on the way to the city That was a dastardly act by that He, however, said he is did that, it really worked for channel 34) become Olympic Channels 2, 3 and 4 respectively. decided on public transport centre which fellow and we are not taking it excited about being part of me in the end. to the city centre. was just a few minutes from lightly. The girls simply wanted Team Nigeria to Tokyo. “I feel “My target is to go to Tokyo This will give viewers on all DStv packages; Premium, The guy, whose claim to be the hotel. They entered this to go on sightseeing and there is happy and at the same very and play at my best because a Nigerian was much doubtful train and the guy got inside nothing wrong with that. They proud of myself for qualifying I know if I play at my best, Compact Plus, Compact, Confam and Yanga as well as the GOtv from his accent, launched into and started insulting them. He do not deserve to be subjected for my first Olympic Games good results will follow. The abuses against the girls for was bundled out at the next to such diatribe by a so-called because I have always wanted advantage of the postponement Max and Jolli packages the chance to witness action from the Summer representing station and we have reported fellow Nigerian. to achieve this dream as only is that it has afforded me more Nigeria, and kept saying that the matter to the Embassy of “We will unmask the fellow God made it possible. time to train and work hard Olympic Games in Tokyo, which is set to be the biggest sporting no one could touch him because Nigeria and the Austrian Police. and then take it from there,” “My winning the African for the games,” Omotayo said. that would amount to assault We have never had this kind of pledged the NFF chief. WEDNESDAY,  ͺ͹˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY 47 SPORTS Joshua, Usyk Heavyweight Clash Gets Sept 25 Date at Spurs Stadium

Anthony Joshua's world heavyweight title defence against Oleksandr Usyk will take place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on 25 September. Joshua, 31, will risk his IBF, WBA and WBO belts against the Ukrainian, who is his mandatory challenger. Usyk, 34, has not fought for a title as a heavyweight but held all four belts a division lower at cruiserweight. Joshua was ordered to defend his WBO title after the collapse of his bout with fellow Briton Tyson Fury. "We are two Olympic gold medallists who have fought our way to the top and never avoided challenges," Joshua said. "The venue is exceptional, the atmosphere will be electric, I'm honoured to be the first person to fight in such an awe-inspiring venue. The stage is set and I am ready to handle business." Despite months of negotiations a fight between Joshua and WBC world champion Fury for all four belts failed to materialise. Joshua called Fury "a fraud" after their proposed meeting on 14 August in Saudi Arabia was called off. Fury will face American Deontay Wilder, who he defeated to become a two-time world heavyweight champion in his most recent bout in February 2020, for a third time in Las Vegas on 24 July. Former undisputed world cruiserweight champion Usyk has 18 wins from 18 bouts. The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has a capacity of over 60,000, although vaccination proof may be requiredto attend sports events of about 20,000 or more capacity by the end of September. Anthony Joshua (left) and Oleksandr Usyk have a September date at Spurs Stadium Awoniyi Excited to Complete Onyeka Joins Brentford from FC Midtjylland Brentford have made their be valuable to us when we don't Brentford ended their 74- majority shareholder of FC first Premier League signing have the ball. year exile from the top flight Midtjylland. Union Berlin Permanent Switch by bringing in Frank Onyeka "He has come from the Danish by beating Swansea 2-0 in the Onyeka has made one Former Nigerian youth TRANSFER from FC Midtjylland. league and was one of the best Championship play-off final appearance for Super Eagles but international, Taiwo Awoniyi The 23-year-old Nigerian midfield players in that league, in May. could be selected for Nigeria for has finally secured a permanent Gent, FSV Mainz 05 and most midfielder has joined the club we think he has the potential The Bees are owned by the Africa Cup of Nations, which transfer to Bundesliga side Union recently with Union Berlin last for an undisclosed fee on a five- to develop further." Matthew Benham, who is also starts in January 2022. Berlin. term. year deal after receiving a work Awoniyi’s switch yesterday The striker scored five goals permit and passing a medical. ended his six year association and provided four assists in 22 Onyeka arrived in the UK on with Liverpool. appearances for Union Berlin Monday and Brentford say he Awoniyi joined Liverpool last season. "will now undergo a period of back in the summer of 2015 “After lots of loan moves quarantine before joining with and spent the majority of his in previous years, I want to the squad for training". six years with the Reds out on finally come and have a home,” "We think he's a strong addition loan at a variety of European Awoniyi told the club’s official to the squad," said Bees boss clubs. website yesterday. Thomas Frank. Awoniyi did not feature for “I owe so much to Union, so "We are looking forward to the Reds and was only granted it makes me happy and proud a work permit to play in the working with him. He is a very to be back here. It’s fantastic to dynamic player. UK in May. continue on the great path with He had loan spells with FSV the club. I’ll give everything to "Frank plays as an eight in Frankfurt, NEC Nijmegen, Royal quickly pick up where I was our system, he is very good at Excel Mouscron (twice), KAA before my injury.” getting from box to box and will Porto Sign Liverpool’s Grujic for £10.5m

Porto have signed midfielder Marko Grujic for £10.5m from Liverpool. Frank Onyeka set to play in the English topflight in the new season with Brentford Serbia international Grujic, 25, spent last season on loan at Porto, making 28 league appearances Arsenal Show Interest in Former Man Utd Goalkeeper and eight Champions League Arsenal are reportedly interested 131 games for the Baggies over outings for them. in former Manchester United the past three seasons. Nigerian Awoniyi, 23, who goalkeeper Sam Johnstone. And Johnstone’s good form scored five goals in 22 games Sky SportsNews claims the earned him a place in England’s on loan at German side Union 28-year-old who now turns out Euro 2020 squad. Berlin last season is the other for West Brom has emerged as a However, Arsenal face stiff player the Reds are also offloading possible target for Mikel Arteta. competition for his signature on permanent terms this transfer The Spaniard is thought to should they press ahead with window. be in the market for a new a bid as north London rivals Liverpool have negotiated 10% stopper as doubts grow over Tottenham have been linked sell-on clauses in both deals. Bernd Leno’s Emirates future. with a swoop. Grujic became Reds manager Sheffield United ace Aaron And West Ham had a bid Jurgen Klopp's first signing at the Ramsdale has been strongly turned down by West Brom club when joining from Red Star linked with a move to the last week, with the Midlands capital. side reportedly holding out for Belgrade in January 2016 for £5.1m. However, it’s now reckoned at least £10million. He made 16 appearances for Arsenal could instead raid Meanwhile, Arsenal Liverpool, while also spending relegated West Brom for completed the signing of Belgian spells on loan at Cardiff City, Johnstone. midfielder Albert Lokonga from Sam Johnstone is on Mikel Marko Grujic...switches to Porto Hertha Berlin and Porto. The goalie has impressed in Anderlecht on Monday. Arteta’s radar at Arsenal T RU N Wednesday, July 21, 2021TH & REASO Price: N250

Book Your MISSILE Jega to National Assembly COVID-19 Tests & Vaccinations “What the National Assembly is doing is senseless, if not a crazy TEXT‘COVID’ TO58123 amendment. How can you make the decision of INEC subject to confirmation, concurrence and approval of the NCC? A body under the Presidency?” _Former INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, berating This service is provided in association with accredited service providers the lawmakers over their stand on e-tranmission of election results. KAYODEKOMOLAFE THE HORIZON [email protected] 0805 500 1974 What’s the Worth of Flood Alerts? rom Lagos to Jalingo, flood Engineer Clement Nze, has also warned “Yes, flood is a natural disaster. But the news has been reported in parts that there could be worse flooding in Lagos failure of environment policy is a human of Nigeria in the last few days. state. Nze reportedly said that the rainfall error. That’s not natural. Streets and neighbourhoods have that disrupted things in Lagos last Friday “Lack of preparedness is a man-made been submerged after intense might not be as much as what may happen disaster. Frainfalls. Homes have been destroyed in September. Nze dismissed the stories of “Flood disasters can be scientifically with farmlands devasted in rural areas. opening of dams by a neighbouring country. explained. Researches are being conducted on The socio-economic cost of the destruction He advised the public to focus on internal the problem in Nigerian institutions despite is huge. The implications for health, welfare steps to take in responding to flood disasters. the limited facilities. . and food security are immense. So it was predictable that heavy rainfalls “If an area is defined as “flood prone,” In Taraba State, at least 4,000 persons have could trigger flooding in the second part it’s simply irrational (if not criminal) to been reportedly displaced in the last two days. of the year. The extremity of the weather ignore the warnings until disasters happen. About 300 houses have been damaged with was, therefore, expected by the experts. . “Governments must take drastic and some of them now under water in some The Lagos state government environment responsible steps to avoid disasters. The people places in Jalingo, the state capital. Taraba’s ministry has not only predicted heavy rains should also be reasonable enough to respond northern neighbour, Adamawa, is not spared and floods for about 261 days, it has also to official warnings. If the hurricane-prone by the floods. The state government has announced plans to mitigate the disaster communities in other parts of the world warned residents to move to safer areas. that floods might cause when they happen. are careless about the natural disaster as In Cross River state a N3 billion World It is only commonsensical to be prepared things are done in Nigeria, some coastal Bank erosion control project in Nkebre for flooding once experts have made the communities could have been long wiped community in the state is threatened by forecasts. Drainages and canals are being out of the face of the earth.” the prevailing environmental disorder. cleared for water to disappear into the For policies to be executed in other According to members of the community canals few hours after heavy rainfalls like departments of national life, the environment a combination of lack of drainages and the ones witnessed last week. For example, must first be preserved. Here we are talking bad roads may cause the failure of the residents in one area in the mainland part of the primacy of the habitat. Just imagine project. The matter is made worse by the of the state said on television last Friday the damage being done to infrastructure heavy rainfalls recorded already this year that their experience this year was relatively by flooding. in the state. Floods have caused enormous better than that of last year because the It is time Nigeria paid a greater attention material damage in Ado-Ekiti in Ekiti state Water Resources Minister, Suleiman Adamu drainage in the area was cleared in earnest. to the larger issues of climate change as and Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State. In Kaduna There should more of such stories of taking many countries are doing at present. The state, about 305 relocation notices have been ravaged by floods after heavy rainfalls last the right steps from the states. consequences of climate are manifest. Climate issued by the state environmental protection week. Elite areas and slums were equally In fact, while speaking on the flood outlook change has been categorised by some experts agency to those living in risky areas. Residents troubled by floods. for the year, the water resources minister as an “existential risk.” And this is far from were advised to stop dumping refuse on In April, the state commissioner for reminded other tiers of government to get being alarmist as some climate change deniers waterways and drainages. There are fears environment, Mr. Tunji Bello, issued some prepared for the looming floods by clearing are wont to suggest in some places. As Oxford that endemic erosion problems in some flood alerts and, in fact , advised those waterways and flood paths. philosopher, Professor Toby Ord, points out states such as Anambra, Akwa Ibom and living in coastal and low-land areas to move The alert given by the hydrological services in his new book, The Precipice: Existential Imo states could compound flooding with upland so avoid loss of lives and damage agency should be a telling reminder about Risk and the Future of Humanity, climate the predicted heavy rains. to properties. the necessary synchronisation of policy steps change is as much a risk to mankind as To be sure, the sad experience has been a According to Bello, the flood forecast among the three tiers of government in order nuclear weapons or pandemics. The havoc global one. Cities in the United States have for this year “is based on the informed to mitigate the effects of flood disaster. of flooding seems to belie the argument that experienced flooding just as activities have global consensus that el-Nino Southern Environmental disasters do respect federalist talking about climate change is a luxury that been disrupted in China by floods. Flood Oscillation, ENSO, is at the cool phase, boundaries and principles. After all, while only industrialised countries can afford. news comes from countries as diverse as which will continue till around June and the federal hydrological agency could give The science and the geo-politics of the India, Turkey, Oman, Iran, Uganda, New likely give to a dominant el-Nino phase till a panoramic view of things, the real work problems should be separated for a nation Zealand, Japan and Colombia. The death the end of 2021… of policy execution is to be done by states to find solutions at its own corner of the toll in Europe is put at no fewer than 200; “The connotation is that Lagos State shall and local governments. globe. It is scientifically interesting that the most of the deaths have been recorded in experience a rainy season of 238-261 days, The flood news has, of course, been largely same climate that is blamed for flooding is Germany. There is mourning in some parts while the maximum annual rainfall amount a bad one. But the good news is that a also believed to be responsible for droughts of the world caused by what on the surface is predicted to be 1,747mm.” lot of work could still be done in the next in some places. According to experts, human looks like the fury of nature. Meanwhile the director-general of NIHSA, few weeks to change the tide of things in activities are responsible for the change. With Is mankind completely helpless in the the identified 121 local government areas. the warming of the earth by about one degree face of floods? It’s certainly worth the while to take steps Celsius, the sea level has risen by about 2.3 Not exactly so. to remove impediments to waterflow in the centimetres. For instance, two months ago in Nigeria “The warnings given various risk zones. State and local governments The country is already confronting insecurity the Minister of Water Resources , Engineer should, therefore, take the flood alerts issued and tackling a pandemic. Mass poverty is a Suleiman Adamu, warned the nation about by experts about by the national hydrological agency more scourge plaguing the land. Flood disasters this year’s floods. The minister spoke at the seriously to minimise flood risks. Last year, in most of the states should not be added to presentation of the Annual Flood Outlook the risk of floods about 70 persons died in flood disasters the catalogue of woes. Environmental damage (AFO) prepared by the Nigeria Hydrological should be taken as a in the country. Thousands were displaced could compound the other existing problems. Services Agency’s (NIHSA). In the sober report, from their villages. Kogi and Kwara states The warnings given by experts about the 121 Local Government areas (LGAs) in 27 wake-up call in the were particularly hit. The disasters should risk of floods should be taken as a wake-up states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) not be repeated this year. call in the context of Nigeria in which issues were listed as “probable flood risk” places. context of Nigeria The point at issue is that human factors in of the environment are not yet a national The states are Abia, Akwa-Ibom, Anambra, the problem of flooding should be isolated priority. Bauchi, Bayelsa, Benue, Cross-River, Delta, in which issues of from the larger natural issues. It is within the All told, the funding of projects to mitigate Ebonyi, Edo, Gombe, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, precinct of policy conception and execution the risk of flooding should be treated as a Kano, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, the environment are to deal with the human factors. This aspect central budgetary item by the federal and Niger, Ogun, Oyo, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba not yet a national of the problem has been repeatedly explored state governments. The ecological fund and Zamfara. on this page. For instance about a year ago, should be judiciously used to partly tackle Parts of Lagos state in particular were priority” this reporter observed as follows: the problem. Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja . All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, Lagos. EMAIL: [email protected], [email protected]. 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