Oil Price Hits 30-month High on OPEC’s Demand Rally Forecast ’s July production pegged at 1.579m bpd Emmanuel Addeh in Petroleum Exporting Countries much-awaited $70 mark, period since 2018. of petrol stable at the current conformity with the policy (OPEC) and its allies known as hitting $71.33 at a point. West However, the climbing oil N162-N165 price band in on the deregulation of the Crude oil prices yesterday OPEC+ forecast a tightening Texas Intermediate (WTI) rose price could worsen Nigeria’s view of the non-conclusion downstream sector. climbed to the highest point global market. as much as 3.8 per cent to fiscal crisis as it portends the of talks with labour and The new price levels were in more than two-and-a-half Brent crude, Nigeria’s $68.87 a barrel, a level it has federal government spending other stakeholders on the years, after the Organisation of oil benchmark, crossed the failed to hold for a sustained more to keep the pump price need to float petrol cost in Continued on page 10

Emefiele: Revival of Cotton, Textile Industries Critical for Economic Recovery...Page 8

Wednesday 2 June, 2021 Vol 26. No 9550. Price: N250

www.thisdaylive.com T RU N TH & REASO Federalism, LG Autonomy Top Demands at Constitution Review Hearings Sultan seeks immunity clause removal, role for monarchs Akeredolu wants Senate scrapped Segun James in Lagos, community policing and of Sokoto and President- scrapping of the Senate to manner that the states will state police, among others, Christopher Isiguzo and devolution of power General of the Nigeria make the federal legislature be given more powers and as presented last week to Gideon Arinze in Enugu, dominated the nationwide Supreme Council for Islamic unicameral, as one of the finance considering their the Senate Committee on Seriki Adinoyi in Jos, James public hearings conducted Affairs, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, ways of reducing the cost enormous responsibilities. Constitutional Review were Sowole in Akure and Segun yesterday by the House of called for the removal of of governance. At Akure, one of the two germane in restructuring the Awofadeji in Bauchi Representatives Committee the immunity clause in Plateau, Benue and venues of the public hearing country. on the Review of the 1999 the constitution, the Ondo Nasarawa states have also for the South-west zone, Akeredolu, who was The clamour for federalism, Constitution. State Governor, Mr. Rotimi unanimously demanded Akeredolu said devolution local government autonomy, However, while the Sultan Akeredolu , advocated the devolution of power in a of powers, true federalism, Continued on page 10 Promoters of Insurrection Are in for a Rude Shock, Says Buhari Vows attacks on INEC’s assets won’t stop future elections Reassures Nigerians no third term ambition Deji Elumoye in Abuja House, Abuja, committed his administration to providing President Muhammadu adequate financial backing for Buhari yesterday vowed the commission’s operations. to deal with those bent on The INEC delegation came destroying the nation through to brief the president on the assaults on public buildings series of attacks on facilities of and institutions. the electoral body nationwide. He also assured Nigerians The deteriorating security that despite security challenges situation in the country also facing the country, all future engaged the attention of the elections will be conducted as National Assembly yesterday scheduled by the Independent with the President of the National Electoral Commission Senate, Dr Ahmad Lawan, (INEC). stressing the need for more Buhari, while receiving a legislative interventions to THE HEADQUARTERS HEIRS BUILT... delegation of INEC, led by secure Nigerians. its National Chairman, Prof. Chairman, Heirs Holdings and Heirs Insurance Limited, Mr. Tony Elumelu (left) and Governor, Mr. Babajide Mahmood Yakubu, at the State Continued on page 10 Sanwo-Olu, at the inauguration of Heirs Towers, in Lagos...yesterday

South-east Govs Charge Security Agencies to Unravel Gulak's Assassination...Page 5 2 WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY 3 4 WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY, ͺ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY 5

Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike NEWS Email [email protected], 08066066268 South-east Govs Charge Security Agencies to Unravel Gulak’s Assassination Nseobong Okon-Ekong of their son." security agencies continue with could not countermand to protect lives and property. looked at how much they will They also commiserated their investigations while IPOB's sit-at-home order of So, whenever I see myself as make and the value of their While residents of the five with the immediate family of assuring that all those involved Monday, Governor, incapable of protecting lives lives and they preferred to South-east states of Abia, Gulak, the government and in the act will be brought to Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, told and property of my people, stay at home. When I drove Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu people of . justice,” the forum said. THISDAY that "people decided I back out. around town on Monday, I and Imo observed a forced The governors thanked Explaining the predicament to sit-at-home not necessarily "I do not want to put them did not see police officers on sit-at-home order issued by President Muhammadu of the governors in dealing because all of them believe in in harm's way. Most people patrol. In some states where the proscribed separatist Buhari for directing the with the unrest in the IPOB. I could not rise to say could not be persuaded to the officers went out they were group, Indigenous Peoples security agencies to fish out South-east and why they you must go out. I am elected go out anyway because they attacked." of Biafra (IPOB) on Monday, the perpetrators, adding that their governors seized the the directive will further opportunity to hold a virtual strengthen the bonds of unity meeting to review the security and trust "with our Northern situation in the zone. brothers and sisters." During the meeting, the They said: “It is with a governors condemned the rude shock that we received killing of All Progressives the news of the unfortunate Congress (APC) chieftain, Hon. death of Alhaji Ahmed Gulak Ahmed Gulak, in Owerri, in the hands of the senseless . gunmen. They directed security “We, on behalf of the people agencies to unravel the of South-east, condemn the act circumstances surrounding highly and we charge security the murder. agencies to immediately They also resolved to deploy their officers and men stand by their colleague, to arrest the perpetrators and Governor Hope Uzodimma make them face justice. of Imo State and the security We, however, pray to God agencies in their efforts to nab to grant the deceased rest in the masterminds of Gulak's eternity.” killing. The governors condoled In a communiqué issued with the Gulak’s family, the yesterday by Chairman of the Adamawa State Government South-east Governors' Forum and Nigerians in general. and Governor, “We assure our fellow Chief David Umahi, the forum Northern governors of our commended the "governors commitment to unravel all from the North for their masterminds of the act. VICTORY CELEBRATION... understanding in the face “The forum urges the public L-R: Deputy Governor, Hon. Philip Shaibu; the Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki; and Secretary to the State Government, of this unfortunate murder to exercise restraint and allow Mr. Osarodion Ogie, during a parade to celebrate the governor’s victory at the Supreme Court, in Benin City...yesterday THISDAY Editor Emerges NGE's VP, Isa Retains Presidency Nation’s Capital Editor is general secretary Buhari congratulates new leadership Deji Elumoye in Abuja and Committee, Mr. Bonnie by polling 132 votes against 53 votes. Buhari Congratulates seats. Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano Iwuoha, said Mr. Ali M. Ali, his challenger's 80 votes to The Standing Committee He commended the rancour- was returned unopposed as emerge as the vice president members that were elected New NGE Leadership free conduct of the elections Nigerian Guild of Editors the deputy president, while (West). at the biennial conference Meanwhile, President and the unanimous acceptance (NGE) on Monday night Kila Habibu Nuhu, was also Mr. Austeen Elewodalu was included Gabriel Akinadewo, has of the outcome, saying this re-elected Mr. Mustapha Isa elected unopposed as vice elected as Assistant General 174 votes; Onuoha Ukeh, 174 congratulated Isa for winning a has set a good standard for to oversee the affairs of the president (North). Secretary with 126 votes against vote; and Wole Sogunle, 172 second-term of office in the just- other unions to copy. guild for the next two years, The Nation’s capital Editor Rose Moses, who polled 82 votes all emerged as winners concluded NGE convention. He also urged the media to just as the Editor of THISDAY of THISDAY, Mr. Iyobosa votes. for the West. The president, in a statement abstain from content that is Newspaper, Mr. Bolaji Adebiyi Uwugiaren, also emerged Steve Nwosu pummelled all Umoru Ibrahim led the pack by his spokesman, Mallam against the maintenance of law was elected the vice president unopposed as general secretary. his opponents with 150 votes to of North’s Standing Committee Garba Shehu, urged the new and order and the sustenance of the body for the West. The final results also showed emerge as treasurer. Catherine members with 202 votes; leadership of the NGE to join of national security. Isa trounced the outgoing that Samuel Egbala was elected Agbo secured 51 votes, while Adesina Gbenga 113, votes; hands with his administration In calling for partnership Secretary, Victoria Ibanga, by vice president (East) after he Juliet Njiowhor got 26 votes . while Imoni Amarere failed in ridding the nation of fake between the NGE leadership securing 176 votes against his secured 132 votes against a Vanguard Newspaper’s to make the list with 99 votes. news and negativity. and his administration, the main challenger’s 54 votes. distant runner up, Mr. Sheddy Editor, Mr. Eze Anaba polled Ngwoke Ngwoke and Buhari also congratulated president said the media Announcing the results Ozoene, who polled 88 votes 164 votes to trounce his sole Boma Nwuke were returned those who emerged as and the government working of the keenly contested Adebiyi defeated the challenger for the position of unopposed, respectively as members of the Standing together ''can, and will build elections, the Chairman of outgoing Social/Publicity Social/Publicity Secretary, Mr. Standing Committee members Committee, both the re-elected a strong, safe, secure and the Screening and Election Secretary, Mr. Ken Ugbechie, Chooks Oko, who scored to (East). and the ones who won fresh inclusive Nigeria." 75 Companies Bid to Emerge Concessionaires for 12 Federal Highways Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja to the would-be concessionaires “The buy-in of the Federal public-private partnership Speaking during the formal will ensure that at the end of under the first phase of the Executive Council (FEC) and guidelines.” bid opening ceremony, Minister the procurement process, and Seventy five companies have HDMI are: Benin – Asaba; the National Assembly had Hussaini stated that every of Works and Housing, Mr. in line with the Infrastructure submitted bids to be picked as Abuja – Lokoja; Onitsha – Aba been obtained and the nation proponent interested at (SAN), Concession Regulatory concessionaires for 12 federal – Owerri; Shagamu –Benin; is looking forward to a robust the request for qualification represented by Hussaini, Commission (ICRC) and roads through the online portal Abuja -Keffi – Akwanga; Kano procurement process that will stage and meets the basic stated that the event signalled Public Procurement Acts, the of the federal government – Maiduguri; Kano- Katsina; attract capable concessionaires prequalification criteria would the commencement of the contract shall only be awarded under the first phase of Lokoja – Benin; Enugu-Port that will develop and manage be shortlisted and subsequently evaluation. to bidders who, having the Highway Development Harcourt; Ilorin-Jebba; Lagos- these routes,” Asein added. invited for the Request for “The ministry is committed satisfied the prequalification Management Initiative (HDMI). Abeokuta and Lagos-Badagry. According to the Permanent Proposal (RFP) stage. to a transparent, fair and criteria, submitted the most Head of the Public Private She said the rationale Secretary Federal Ministry The 12 highways mapped competitive bidding process technically and economically Partnership (PPP) of the Federal behind the private sector of Works and Housing, out for concession by the federal throughout the HDMI project comprehensive bid. . Ministry of Works and Housing, engagement was to provide Babangida Hussaini, the government have a combined life cycle. Twelve pilot road Fashola said the buy-in Mrs. Abimbola Asein, said in a alternative funding source request for qualification bid length of about 1,963km and corridors have been earmarked of the Federal Executive statement by Director of Press for road development and opening ceremony signalled the represents less than 5.6 per cent for concession and they are Council (FEC) and the and Public Relations, Boade management, adding that the commencement of the value- of Nigeria’s 35,000km federal considered very viable,” he said. National Assembly had been Akinola, that the HDMI was ministry is working jointly with added concession evaluation highway network. He stated that the evaluation obtained, adding that the created by the ministry to attract the Infrastructure Concession exercise. The initial capital investments committee will be chaired nation is looking forward to sustainable investment and Regulatory Commission (ICRC), He said: “The ministry shall that the federal government by the director (public a robust procurement process funding in the development Federal Ministry of Finance, ensure that the procurement is projecting is about N1.13 procurement), who is a that will usher in the much of road infrastructure and to Budget and National Planning process is in line with the trillion, with employment seasoned public procurement needed concessionaires that maximise the use of assets (FMFB&NP), amongst other Infrastructure Concession potential estimated to be over and public private partnership will develop and manage the along the right of way. stakeholders, to bring the Regulatory Commission 50,000 direct jobs and 200,000 (PPP) expert. routes, while recouping their The 12 roads to be given out project to fruition. (ICRC) Act and approved indirect jobs. He added that the ministry investment. 6 WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY 7 8 WEDNESDAY, ͺ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY NEWS Emefiele: Revival of Cotton, Textile Industries Critical for Economic Recovery Says 620,000 jobs created in two years CBN disburses N44bn to CTG sector James Emejo in Abuja that the uniformed services objective of the engagement 2019 and 2020 across the CTG over 200,000 cotton farmers, President, National Cotton had started to patronise was to "effectively engage with value chain while monitoring cultivating 291,761 hectares of Association of Nigeria The Governor of the Central locally-made textiles for their all stakeholders to identify recovery over the period. land with an output of 94,787 (NACOTAN), Mr. Anibe Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. uniforms while the garment the pain points inhibiting He stated that the main metric tonnes of cotton seed. Achimugu, said the progress Godwin Emefiele, yesterday industry received orders for the realisation of the major targets of the CBN intervention He added that this has led to so far achieved would have described the revival of the production of uniforms and potentials of the CTG sector in the sector were to close the improvement in the household been impossible without the Cotton, Textile and Garment cotton hand bags. intervention and develop seed cotton gap of 450,000 income of each farmer by an apex bank's drive. (CTG) sector as crucial for He stated that the CBN's strategies to achieve the desired metric tonnes by 2022 as well as average of N240,000. According to him, the strengthening economic engagement with uniformed impact of the intervention." increase the capacity utilisation He said the bank had also Anchor Borrower's Programme recovery, boosting employment services has further resulted Emefiele added that the of ginneries from less than 30 financed 19 ginneries, four (ABP) remains one of the best and creating wealth for in no fewer than five agencies CBN remained committed per cent to 80 per cent within textile companies and three agricultural interventions Nigerians. partnering with local textile to ensuring the successful same timeline. garment manufacturers under programmes of the CBN. Emefiele, at a meeting in manufacturers. implementation of the CTG He said the CBN also the textile intervention facility, The President, Manufacturers Abuja with critical stakeholders Emefiele, represented by policy, adding that it will sought to reduce smuggling resulting in an increase in the Association of Nigeria (MAN), in the CTG sector also said CBN Deputy Governor, dedicate appropriate resources and dumping of textile by at number of active ginneries from Mansur Ahmed, said the the CBN's intervention in the Corporate Services Directorate, to drive its implementation. least 40 per cent by the end 13 in 2019 to 21 as at June 2021. CTG industry could resolve sector had led to the creation of Mr. Edward Adamu, stated Earlier, CBN Director, of 2022. However, the stakeholders the country's unemployment 620,000 direct and indirect jobs that the bank is currently Development Finance Yusuf, represented by Head, unanimously lauded the CBN's challenges, adding that the since the efforts to reposition collaborating with some Department, Mr. Yila Yusuf, Retail Contact, Division, CBN, intervention programme in federal government and the the sector began in 2019. private stakeholders towards said the bank had disbursed Mr. Chika Nwanja, said the the sector, describing it as CBN have done a great deal The apex bank has disbursed improving the quality of seeds a total of N44 billion between CBN had also financed unprecedented. to revive the industry. a total of N44 billion between to guarantee high yields. 2019 and 2020 across the CTG He added that textile value chain while monitoring companies have been supported recovery over the period. in the last two to three years, Emefiele, while listing other leading to the revival of some gains from CBN's intervention previously moribund ones. programme in the sector, Emefiele, however, said for said nine ginneries had been the 2021 wet season, plans resuscitated while cotton had were underway with the been ginned all-year- round involvement of ginneries for the first time in 10 years. to integrate backwards by He said the bank financed cultivating an average of over 278,500 hectares in 2019 53,100 hectares with an and 2020, adding that over estimated output of 106,200 90,000 Metric Tonnes (MT) metric tonnes at two metric of cotton seed was harvested tonnes per hectare. while industry capacity of According to him, the CBN ginneries increased from an is also working with prime average of 19 per cent to 51 anchors for 10,000 hectares of per cent. land with estimated output of He said the textile sector 20,000 metric tons. got 100 per cent of its major He stated that the bank raw materials (cotton lint) at would be working with a CBN- subsidised rate of associations to cultivate about N440,000 as against the market 80,000 hectares with an average price of N593,000, adding that output of 120,000 metric tonnes the industry has an increase in at 15 metric tonnes per hectare. production of over 10 million He, however, said while meters of yarn materials. some progress had been At the meeting, which was recorded, more work needed convened to among other to be done as opportunities for BRIEFING THE PRESIDENT... things, deliberate on the current higher capacity utilisation in state of the industry as well textile and garment companies L-R: Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, Chief of Staff to the President, Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, as chart the way forward, as well as ginneries abound. and Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, after meeting with President Emefiele told stakeholders He explained that the main Muhammadu Buhari, at the State House, Abuja...yesterday FG Expects Next Batch of COVID-19 Vaccine in September Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja of the Astrazeneca vaccine from September. with 33 embassies and high Shuaib said Buhari and of Covid-19 vaccination on across 36 states and the Federal "On the global vaccine commissions in Nigeria on Osinbajo did their second March 15, 2021. The federal government has Capital Territory (FCT). supply and anticipated next how to secure more supplies doses on Saturday, May 29. He added that the AEFls expressed the hope that the He said President consignment, the Covax facility of COVID-19 vaccines. Similarly, he said many symptoms ranged from country may receive more Muhammadu Buhari and has communicated that the He added that the state governors, members of pain and swelling at site of consignments of Covax- Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, upcoming allocation is likely federal Ministry of Health the legislature, traditional and vaccination to more serious brokered COVID-19 vaccine received their second dose last from July or September 2021. was working with critical religious leaders had publicly symptoms such as headaches, between July and September. Saturday. "The exact dates are still stakeholders to fast-track the started taking the second dose abdominal pain, fever, dizziness Executive Director of the While giving update on the being finalised. Nevertheless, establishment of local vaccine of their vaccinations. and allergic reactions. National Primary Healthcare vaccine rollout and efforts bilateral conversations are production plants in Nigeria Speaking on the reports of According to him, “a total Development Agency to secure more supplies of ongoing to see how we can so as to provide alternative adverse effects of the vaccine, of 10,027 cases of mild AEFI (NPHCDA), Dr. Faisal Shuaib, COVID-19 vaccines, Shuaib access the surplus vaccines supply of vaccines. Shuaib said there had been have been reported as of May disclosed this yesterday during said the government had being stockpiled by developed On the state of vaccination cases of mild, moderate 30, while 86 cases of moderate a press conference in Abuja. received information that the countries," he said. in the country, he said 73,465 and severe Adverse Events to severe incidents have been He also said 73,465 Nigerians Covax vaccine consignment He stated that the federal Nigerians had so far received Following Immunisations reported. All these individuals had received their second dose might be due in Nigeria as government was collaborating their second dose. (AEFIs) since the rolled out have since fully recovered”. Obaseki: S’Court Verdict is Death Knell for Godfatherism in Edo Adibe Emenyonu in Benin which also affirmed his victory must rededicate ourselves to in our efforts to reposition the through all of these challenges. fake people that are pulling City in the September 19, 2020 our people because democracy politics of Edo State. But I believe that what is more this country down even at the governorship poll, signalled is all about the people. "They threw all sorts of trash important is the meaning of national level.” Edo State Governor, Mr. an end to godfatherism in the "Democracy is not about an at us, but by the grace of God, this victory. For us, we must On the congratulatory Godwin Obaseki, yesterday state and heralded freedom individual or godfather. We the verdict of the Supreme rededicate ourselves to the messages, after the Supreme dedicated his victory at the for the people. have defeated the godfather Court is just the final straw. work, which we have started Court ruling, by the candidate Supreme Court, which last Obaseki, who spoke after finally in Edo, in our quest to All the court cases that we for Edo people. of the All Progressives Congress week cleared him of allegations receiving supporters at the take Edo to where it should have gone through, all the “We cannot look back. At this (APC), Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu of certificate forgery, to all those Benin Airport, praised Edo be.” challenges we have faced in time of the life of this country, and the former National who stood by him when he people for their relentless He added: “First and the last two years, we have we are faced with major critical Chairman of APC, Mr. Adams took on politicians in the state support for his government. foremost, we need to thank won every one of them. challenges and as if we knew, Oshiomhole, the governor said who tried to stop his re-election. He said: “For us in Edo, this God. You are all witnesses to "This is by the grace of God: we had started repositioning he was yet to receive an original According to him, the victory means freedom and what we have gone through I will not say it is my own our state. The people who copy of the letters signed by judgment of the Supreme Court, emancipation; it means that we in the last two or three years doing; it is God that has led us are fighting us are the same the duo. WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY 9 10 WEDNESDAY, ͺ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY PAGE TEN

PROMOTERS OF INSURRECTION ARE IN FOR A RUDE SHOCK, SAYS BUHARI He added that the Senate was “I receive daily security in the fields for 30 months, for failure. We will meet all of has stressed the need for more interventions by the National tired of observing one-minute reports on the attacks, and it who went through the war, INEC’s demands.” legislative interventions to Assembly to protect Nigerians silence for victims of insecurity. is very clear that those behind will treat them in the language Earlier, Yakubu had said secure Nigerians. from the heightening insecurity Media adviser to the them want this administration they understand. We are going so far, 42 cases of attacks on He stated yesterday that that in the country. president, Mr. Femi Adesina, to fail. to be very hard sooner than INEC offices nationwide had the lawmakers were tired of According to him, it is in a statement issued at the “Insecurity in Nigeria is later.” been recorded, since the 2019 observing one-minute silence imperative for the National end of the closed-door session now mentioned all over the He stated that the service general election. for the victims of insecurity. Assembly to step up legislative with the INEC officials, quoted world. All the people who chiefs and the Inspector General He said: “The 42 incidents The Senate also expressed interventions to reduce the Buhari as reiterating that he want power, whoever they of Police have been changed, so far occurred in 14 states of concern about the frequency of number of deaths caused by has no intention of staying in are, you wonder what they “and we will demand security the federation for a variety of the one-minute silence usually criminal activities. office beyond 2023. really want. Whoever wants from them.” reasons….Most of the attacks observed at its plenary as a He added that such On the dangers posed to the destruction of the system Shedding more light on his happened in the last seven result of deaths associated with interventions would be backed future elections by the burning will soon have the shock of meeting with the INEC officials months, and they are unrelated security challenges facing the by collaborative efforts among of INEC facilities, the president their lives. We’ve given them via his official Twitter handle, to protest against previous nation. the legislature, executive and assured the commission that enough time,” he stated. Buhari tweeted: “I received elections. "From the pattern So far, it has observed Nigerians to address the his administration will do all Buhari recalled that he visited a briefing today from the and frequency of the most one-minute silence six times security challenges. within its powers to mitigate all the 36 states of the country chairman of the Independent recent attacks, they appear to in recent times for those who He added: “It is very the effects on the conduct of before the 2019 elections, “and National Electoral Commission, be targeted at future elections. lost their lives through killings important that we step up future polls. majority of the people believed on the series of attacks on their The intention is to incapacitate and murders in the wake of our legislative intervention He said: "We will do that me, and the election proved it.” facilities nationwide. These the commission, undermine security issues across the in ensuring that we protect so that no one would say we He promised to continue attacks are totally unacceptable, the nation’s democracy and country. the lives and properties don’t want to go, or that we leading the country in and we will not allow those precipitate a national crisis." Lawan, at yesterday’s of Nigerians to reduce the want a third term. There will accordance with the behind them to achieve their plenary, said: "Let me observe incidence of one-minute silence. be no excuse for failure. We’ll constitution. evil objectives. Lawan Seeks that we have observed about “I believe that the Senate meet all INEC’s demands.” According to him, those “I have assured INEC that six one-minute silence and most and, indeed, the National He, however, warned those misbehaving in certain parts we will make available to More Legislative of it was to pray for the repose Assembly, working together bent on destroying the country of the country are too young to them everything they need Interventions to of the souls of Nigerians who with the executive and getting through promoting insurrection, know the travails and loss of to operate efficiently, so that Secure Nigerians were murdered or killed by the support of Nigerians, we and burning down critical lives that attended the Nigerian no one will say we don’t want criminals." can bring the much needed national assets to back off as civil war. to go, or that we want a third Meanwhile, the President of He called for the succour to our people, and that a rude shock awaits them soon. He added: “Those of us term. There will be no excuse the Senate, Dr. Ahmad Lawan, intensification of legislative is why we are here.” FEDERALISM, LG AUTONOMY TOP DEMANDS AT CONSTITUTION REVIEW HEARINGS represented by his deputy, with issues bordering on must break from the Lagos State. reiterated his administration’s called for gender parity and Mr. Lucky Ayedatiwa, also constitutional interpretations command structure imposed Earlier, the Speaker of the unwavering commitment inclusion to allow women advocated that membership of and matters arising between on the country by the defunct House of Representatives, to an egalitarian Nigeria to participate actively in the National Assembly should and among the states and military government, which Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, where justice, fairness, equity governance and decision- be part-time. the federal government, as concentrated enormous while urging Nigerians and inclusiveness shall be making. He said: “The membership well as revenue generation power at the centre as to take the ongoing functional directive principles of the (National) Assembly by the federal government. manifested in the 1999 constitutional amendment of state policy. Sultan Seeks Removal should be part time. No It should also administer the Constitution. seriously, had said the The governor had declared member should earn National Judicial Council.” “The constituent units process of review and the state government’s of Immunity Clause allowances not known to In Bauchi, the state of the Nigerian federation amendment would give support for amending the the Revenue Mobilisation Governor, Senator Bala represented by the current 36 the nation a near perfect constitution to enhance On his part, the Sultan of and Allocation Committee Abdulkadir Mohammed, states, the FCT and the 774 constitution. the nation’s quest for Sokoto and President-General and, more importantly, people stated that Nigeria needed local government areas are He expressed optimism unity and prosperity “in of the Nigeria Supreme they claim to serve. a workable and acceptable near to the people that must that such a new constitution an environment where Council for Islamic Affairs, “Legislators should earn constitution to serve the be given enough powers will resolve the issue of justice, fairness and equity Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, under a uniform salary interests of the people. with resources in order to “identity, political structure, shall prevail.” called for the removal of structure. Allowance Such a document, he positively impact the lives of human rights, administration Declaring open the South- the immunity clause in the peculiarities must not be added, should allow for the people at the grassroots,” of government, resource east zonal public hearing constitution, saying it will about obscenity. The Senate true federalism where Nigeria he stated. control, national security and in Enugu, the governor compel leaders to live up should be scrapped. The states are autonomous entities In Lagos State, the so much else that has made enjoined all institutions, to their responsibilities. House of Representatives with power to run their Governor, Mr. Babajide our nation fragile and that civil society organisations, He also advocated a too should not be unwieldly. affairs. Sanwo-Olu, restated his has hindered our progress stakeholders and the entire constitutional role for A maximum of four The governor also appealed calls for a special economic and prosperity.” citizenry “to traditional rulers, saying representatives should come to the House Committee status for the state owing to He added: “The 1999 stand up and be counted it was time Nigerians talk from each zone.” on the Review of the 1999 its status and the economic Constitution is as a result of a in this important national frankly on how they want The governor also Constitution to look into the epicentre of the nation and hurried national compromise discussion.” the country managed. advocated the decentralisation various agitations of the state the burdens it bears. that Nigeria entered into two Women groups, Addressing stakeholders of the Supreme Court. and reflect them in its report. He said at the South-west decades ago, just to allow the organisations and labour at the Kebbi zonal hearing He said: “The Supreme According to him, the zonal public hearing that military vacate the political unions made varying comprising Kebbi, Sokoto and Court should be decentralised participatory approach by the continuous request for scene and return to the submissions on how to Zamfara States, the sultan to ease the current burden the National Assembly a special status for the state barracks. It has always been improve the constitution. attributed the crisis in the of the appellate court. in the amendment of the was by no means a selfish our intention that one day, as Labour unions country to the relegation of “In a true federal state, constitution is expected one, but stemmed from the one people, we will return demanded autonomy for traditional rulers as they there should be a Supreme to produce a people’s interest of every Nigerian to amend this document to local government, the were given no constitutional Court whose decisions are constitution that will address in the state. give voice to the yearning of legislature and the judiciary role to play. final in residual matters. The the social-economic problems He stated that progress and the Nigerian people”. for improved service delivery, He said before the Supreme Court at the centre in the country. prosperity of Nigeria as a In Enugu, the Governor, autonomy. Nigerian nation came into should concern itself mainly He added that Nigeria nation is linked to that of Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Also, women groups being in 1914, the traditional institution had existed. OIL PRICE HITS 30-MONTH HIGH ON OPEC’S DEMAND RALLY FORECAST Continued on page 42 driven by expectations of to follow the progress of 2018 when measured on a in 2021 to an average of 63.6 welcomed the positive growing fuel demand during negotiations between Tehran continuous basis. mb/d. performance of participating the summer driving season in and world powers to revive OPEC Secretary-General, Dr According to him, the countries in the DoC, as the United States as OPEC+ the 2015 nuclear agreement, Sanusi Barkindo, who spoke actions of the Declaration overall conformity to the agreed to boost output and paving the way for increased at the 30th Meeting of the of Cooperation (DOC) production adjustments was strong usage indications oil supplies from Iran. Joint Ministerial Monitoring have continued to support 114 per cent in April. coming from China. At the meeting, OPEC+ Committee (JMMC), said the rebalancing process, “In view of current oil OPEC+ also collectively stuck to its plan to hike oil latest projections showed and have helped reduce market fundamentals and agreed to continue a slow output in July, pressing ahead Gross Domestic Product the global supply by more the consensus on its outlook, TOP GAINERS NGN NGN % easing of supply curbs at with an increase of 841,000 (GDP) growth of 5.5 per cent than 2.9 billion barrels since the meeting reconfirmed the its virtual meeting yesterday, barrels a day in July, following in 2021, up from 5.4 per cent May 2020. existing commitment of the MORISON 0.09 1.03 9.5 coordinated from Vienna, hikes in May and June. at the last meeting. “However, there 10th OPEC and non-OPEC CORONATION 0.5 0.58 9.4 as producers balanced an “The demand picture He stated that the continues to be significant ministerial meeting in April expected demand recovery has shown clear signs of projections for oil are largely overproduction by some of 2020, amended in June, UPL 0.11 1.28 9.4 against a possible increase improvement,” Saudi Energy unchanged from last month, the participating countries. September, and December CHI PLC 0.06 0.72 9.0 in Iranian output. Minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin as demand is expected to The overproduced volumes 2020, as well as in January REGENCY 0.04 0.49 8.8 The cartel, according to Salman, said as the ministerial grow by 6 mb/d to around need to be accommodated to and April 2021. information garnered from meeting started. His Russian 96.5 mb/d on average for achieve the goals we have “The agreement was TOP LOSERS NGN % the meeting, pegged Nigeria’s counterpart, Alexander Novak, the year, an increase of 6.6 set for ourselves. to gradually return two CHAMPBREW 0.21 1.91 9.9 July’s reference production at also spoke of the “gradual per cent. “In this regard, the 15th million barrels a day (mb/d) 1.829million bpd, the country’s economic recovery. He stated that the market OPEC and non-OPEC of the adjustments to the JOHNHOLT 0.05 0.63 7.9 adjustment was put at 250,000 If OPEC+ stays on course, outlook for later this year ministerial meeting agreed market, with the pace being AFRIPRUD 0.45 5.75 7.2 bpd, while required output and Iran oil’s comeback is looks especially promising, to extend the very generous determined according to for the month is expected to delayed, that should get WTI while anticipating that compensation period for market conditions,” OPEC HONEYWELL 0.08 1.13 6.6 be 1.579 million bpd. oil solidly above $70 a barrel, demand will surpass 99 mb/d overproduced volumes until stated in a release after the CHAMS PLC 0.01 0.20 4.7 OPEC+ decided in April while Brent which has already in the fourth quarter, which the end of September 2021. meeting. to return 2.1 million barrels exceeded $70 may then try would put OPEC back in the “Our continued It noted that compensation HPE Nestle Nig Plc ₦1,420.00 per day (bpd) of supply to establish contact with the range of pre-pandemic levels. contributions to sustainable plans should be submitted in Volume: 274.852 million shares to the market from May $75 region. Barkindo, who warned oil market stability depend accordance with the statement to July, anticipating rising The surge was hovering against complacency, stated upon all participants achieving of the 15th OPEC and non- Value: N2.632 billion global demand despite the at a level not seen since 2018 that non-OPEC liquids 100 per cent conformity and, OPEC ministerial meeting and high number of coronavirus as August Brent contract rose production is now forecast to where necessary, working reconfirmed the decision on Deals: 4,159 cases in India, the world's earlier by $1.82, or 2.6 per grow at a slightly slower pace dutifully to compensate for production adjustments for As at yesterday 1/6/2021 third-largest oil consumer. cent, to $71.14 a barrel, a level than expected last month, overproduction,” he said. July as well as schedule its Traders also continue not seen since November rising by around 700,000 b/d However, the meeting next meeting for July 1. See details on Page 41 WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY 11 12 WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY 13 14 THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 2, 2021

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA COMMENT Email [email protected] BUHARI AND ANTI-GRAZING LAWS Sonnie Ekwowusi urges the President to work for all Nigerians

resident Muhammadu Buhari faults anti-grazing laws. was everything. But not so under presidential democracy which we He slams Governors of Southern States for banning open are operating today. Under presidential democracy the Houses of grazing in their respective states. This is preposterous. Assembly and governors of the federation, as could be gleaned from Whereas Mr. President objects to open grazing prohibition the devolution of powers in the Exclusive, Concurrent and Residual he keeps mute over the murder, rape, battery, assault and Lists under the 1999 Constitution and under the Land Use Act, can other crimes being committed by the AK-47-weliding Fulani enact anti-grazing laws to be binding in their respective states in order Pherdsmen in the course of rearing their cattle and cows. President to protect the lives of the citizens of their respective states. Buhari is biased in favour of his fellow Fulani kinsmen. Why should I had expected Mr. President to raise the alarm over the terrible a president of a country who ought to see the whole country as his crimes being committed by the Fulani herdsmen across the country. constituency condescend to the level of putting the cattle–rearing and Instead of raising such an alarm, President Buhari is raising the alarm private business of the Fulani herdsmen over and above public right that the criminals are not being protected or granted “grazing right” and public interest? by the Governors of Southern states. Does Mr. President understand Nigeria is bigger than Fulani herdsmen. If Nigeria is a multi-lingual, that right, in the words of the late Supreme Court Justice Chukwudifu multi-ethnic and multi-national society, why should Mr. President Oputa, is not a one-way traffic? Right is reciprocal. Right is intertwined hold brief for Fulani herdsmen; an attitude which does not reflect the with and conditioned by duties. For example, the “right” of Fulani shared visions and aspirations of the variegated interest groups and herdsmen to kill their fellow citizens in the course of rearing their cattle nationalities that constitute Nigeria. Where has this president been stops where the right to life of their fellow citizens begins. Besides, all these six years in which the herdsmen have been freely going what is sauce for the goose is equally sauce for the gander. If Mr. about killing, maiming, and raping their victims and dispossessing President is raising the alarm that the Fulani herdsmen are denied them of their farm lands? Has it not dawned on him that the Fulani grazing right, why is he not equally raising the alarm that the same herdsmen have killed or maimed thousands of innocent Nigerians in Fulani herdsmen are killing, maiming and raping Nigerian citizens? the last six years under his watch? Why has human life become so Has it not dawned on the President that by virtue of the Land Use Act cheap in this government? Is President Buhari aware that in the last all the lands in Southern Nigeria are exclusively vested in Southern three years different Nigerian courts have consistently affirmed the State Governors (not in the Presidency or Fulani herdsmen) who are right of Nigerian state governments to implement anti-grazing laws in at liberty to grant or convey or assign the use or title of them to any their respective states? Is the president aware that the implementation applicant who has fulfilled the conditions for such grant or conveyance of anti-grazing laws in different states of the federation has brought or assignment? relative calm and peace and security of lives in the aforesaid states? As you know very well, Nigerians from different walks of life have Is Mr. President aware that the Northern Governors Forum banned literally been begging President Buhari to eliminate nepotism and open grazing before their Southern counterpart? Is President Buhari provincialism that breed secessionist and separatist agitations in Nigeria aware that the Governors of the 36 states of the federation have banned but he has refused to do so. Nigerians have also been urging him to open grazing in their respective states? Is the President aware that correct the skewed political appointments in the country but he has the Federal High Court, Abuja has recently rejected a suit seeking to also refused to correct the skewed political appointments. Instead of compel President Buhari to direct security agencies to enforce the Benue correcting the skewed political appointments, Mr. President keeps on anti-grazing law? Anyway, the Southern state governors have ignored uttering sermons on non-negotiability of the unity of Nigeria. Nigeria’s President Buhari’s flawed objection in the same manner they ignored unity is under a serious threat today owing to President Buhari’s the laughable anti-grazing opinion recently expressed by the Federal nepotism, provincialism and small-town outlook. It is worthy of note Attorney-General and Minister for Justice. Anti-grazing laws have come that prior to Buhari’s coming to power, the Fulani herdsmen rearing to stay. State governors are poised to enforce the laws to the letter no cattle in Southern Nigeria were not armed with AK-47 guns let alone matter whose ox is gored. killing their victims with alacrity. But unfortunately since Buhari came The problem is that Mr. President does not still understand the to power, these Fulani herdsmen have started carrying guns and meaning and import of Presidential democracy which Nigeria operates. indulging in all sorts of criminal activities. Now instead of bringing And this problem is compounded by the fact that the president’s these criminals to justice the president is advocating for their “right” to managers and handlers are failing in their duty of helping the president open grazing. Does this perfectly square up with simple logic? No. to have organized, intelligent and coherent thoughts on vital issues Consequently in order to unify the country and thus pave way for of governance. It beats the imagination that the president is querying the much-vaunted true Nigerian progress Mr. President should first Southern state governors for banning open grazing. Mr. President and foremost shed the cloak of his nepotism, provincialism, narrow- should be reminded again and again that we are no longer under a mindedness. Unity of Nigeria has a price tag. It is not something military autocracy. Under military rule Buhari could issue a command imposed from Abuja through executive fiat. You cannot be telling me from Abuja and it would be binding on the governors. During Nigerian UNITY OF NIGERIA HAS A PRICE TAG. IT IS that the unity of Nigeria is not negotiable while at the same time you military interregnum, the country operated a monolithic and hierarchi- are ignoring the killing, maiming and raping and other crimes being cal government that did not admit of power sharing. The Head of State NOT SOMETHING IMPOSED FROM ABUJA committed by the Fulani herdsmen across Nigeria. or the Federal Military Government or the Supreme Military Council, THROUGH EXECUTIVE FIAT MAKING AN IMPRESSION The government is reviving water infrastructure to enhance the living standards of the people, writes Abiodun Komolafe

ost assuredly, human societies that a man should take about 15.5 cups of water and remarkable means of development. Today in Pump, Low Lift Pump Starter Panel and High Lift and civilizations are adjudged (125 ounces) each day while a woman should drink Osun, the incidences of decay and neglect of water Motor Starter Panel. developed, or otherwise, based about 11.5 cups (91 ounces) daily. Studies have also infrastructure is no longer possible, and endless Lest we forget, the rehabilitation of the 33KV on the attainment level of the shown that a man “can’t survive more than 8 to 21 repeat of laying of foundations of the same water Garage Olode-Ifetedo Feeder Line is ongoing. visions of the founding people. days without food and water” while people on “their works or projects has become outdated. In other Discussions with interested investors for the provision It is all about leadership and deathbed who are using very little energy may live words, the water infrastructure management model of solar energy for the state have also reached an Mvision. Societies merely mirror the vision of the only a few days or a few weeks without food and in Osun is now a functional systemic outlay, which is advanced stage. These discussions include, but not founding fathers. Matter-of-factly speaking, since you water.” self-sustaining. limited to, training of Osun youths in the assembly of cannot give what you don’t have, societies remain As the saying goes, water really does not have From the look of things, the water architecture of component parts as well as repair and maintenance the exact replica or equivalence of the vision that enemy! A cursory look at our immediate environment the ‘State of the Virtuous’ has not only been rein- of solar energy. Of course, there are other works, gave birth to them. Therefore, for a people to readily shows that man can barely exist without water. In the vigorated and reengineered to help stimulate growth, which approval has been given but are currently resolve to blame the founding fathers’ vision, or the same vein, industrial complexes, which are consid- especially, in the rural areas, every nook and cranny awaiting contract awards. lack thereof, for all the nation’s predicaments, is to ered signs of economic and social development, will of Osun has also been touched by the infrastructure Without mincing words, Oyetola’s deliberate deliberately indulge in pointless self-pity, and wallow always remain a castle in the air without regular and of water to enhance the living standards of the interventions in this highly technical sector have in irredeemable fatalism. adequate supply of potable water. Impliedly, “without residents. From the New Ede Headworks (straddling greatly impacted the socio-political-cum-economic That said, we need to note that development is water, there wouldn’t be life on earth.” 11 Local Government Areas, LGAs, of the state), activities of Osun and the provision of job opportuni- a concept rooted in the philosophy of ideas, visions This explains perhaps, more succinctly, the to the Ilesa Water Supply and Sanitation Project ties for its residents. With these key interventions by of the intellectual and visionary thinkers. It suggests driving force behind the new move in the State of (spanning Ilesa township, Idominasi, Kajola, Ijaregbe the current administration, one is not in doubt of a a leap into the unknown, or an attempt to tread Osun, which is a different look at the concept of and Iponda), which has reached 75% completion significant enhancement in the food security profile of the uncharted path, to wit; extend the frontiers of development and the preferred choice of service stage, this administration has proved itself capable the state, especially, through an appreciable increase knowledge, and embrace, or dare the unintended delivery strategy of water management. The new of taking Osun to the Promised Land in terms of in the yield of farm produce; thus, making good consequences. Humanity, on the other hand, is understanding in Osun is to view ‘development’ the infrastructure of water. Also in this mould is the governance feasible and meaningful to the people. endowed with the incredible ability to re-invent, in the context of water supply, from the precinct of Village Rural Water Development Project, which Through direct engagement of labour, professionals, overhaul, or create a new beginning. As change is extant infrastructure, and its sustainability, with a covers Ipetu-Ijesa, Iperindo, Osu, Ifewara, Igangan technicians, even, artisans have been productively dynamic, so also is human ability to adapt and move grasp knowledge of the demographics of whom are and Iwara, among others. employed for specific jobs prescriptions and money on, which suggests that humans are supposed to the beneficiaries, dovetailing into new strategy and In the Asi-Oyan axis, the Oyetola-led administra- has been injected into the system. Yes, water is used domesticate their existential environment all the time. policy-priority outlay. tion has carried out repair works on Motor Starter for drinking, transportation, irrigation, cooking, bath- Without being immodest, history all over the Aware of the important roles of water to everyday and Water Pump in Eko-Ende; and rewinding of four ing, and other socio-economic activities. This therefore world is full of stories about the existential relevance life, one is not surprised that the Gboyega Oyetola- High Lift Pumps, repair of the vandalized Starter means that hitherto cases of water-borne diseases, of water to humanity. From its critical role in led government in Osun has prioritized the Water Panels; as well as rewinding of one Low Lift Pump especially, in the rural areas of the state, have become agricultural production and food security, to its Resources and Energy sector. To avoid the backlashes in Asi, Oyan and Asaba communities, all in the Odo consigned to the dustbin of history. It also bears importance in manufacturing, health and sanitation, of the negative effects of the lack of potable water, Otin LGA of the state. repeating that, where there’s good, uninterrupted this ‘effective coolant’ is so essential for all “life on, which may result in water-borne diseases, and may Ila Waterworks (covering Ila Oragun, Oke-Ila in Ila supply of water, businesses are not only attracted, in, and above the earth” that it constitutes up to 90% as well cripple other socioeconomic activities in the Local Government) has also had its fair share of this they also thrive. of some organisms’ mass body weight. So important society, the governor wisely decided to invest heavily laudable government presence, especially, through Komolafe is Senior Special Assistant to Governor is water to everyday life that it is recommended in Water Resources development, which is also a key the replacement of the Burnt Low Lift Submersible Oyetola on Media THISDAY • WEDNESDAY, JUNE 2, 2021 15 EDITORIAL THE FUTURE OF NYSC…2

The programme is due for a comprehensive review

Continued from yesterday improve the self-esteem of participants and ensure that corps members serve their country with dignity. And espite our opposition to the idea of three, it will restore the spirit of national service to the scrapping the scheme, reforming scheme. the NYSC will imply a trimmed programme. This could require that owever, the real test is in overcoming natural prospective users of corps members resistance and establishing robust structure may have to guarantee them post- for effective implementation. Among other Dservice employment or engage them on a two or imperatives, the supervisory ministry (Youth three-year contract as part of a national policy. In Hand Sports) and NYSC need to liaise with security agen- that case, the allowances paid by government for the cies to ensure that corps members are and feel secure selected corps members can be advanced to organisa- where they serve, offer incentives and capacity upgrade tions that request for corps members as contribution to perform well in new roles, ensure development of to a universal graduate employment scheme. useful work-programmes so that corps members are fully While we understand the emotional subtext of the engaged, sequence the reform components in a strategic moment, we believe it is more useful to fix, rather than manner, and communicate the reform effectively. scrap, NYSC. The national integration argument of Another alternative is to make the NYSC the basis the scheme has not been overtaken, as recent events of a new compulsory military service scheme. Under around the country show. But we need to ensure that this programme, all graduates will be required to serve corps members are well protected wherever they may in the military and police for a compulsory specified be posted. Just as we also need to ensure that NYSC can number of years after graduation. At the end of it, they provide added value, will have the option of making a career in the military CORPS MEMBERS SHOULD and that it is aligned or earning honourable discharge which should give BE ENGAGED IN SECTORS with the current needs them preference when seeking subsequent employment WHERE THEY ARE NEEDED, of the country and its opportunities. Those who opt to make careers in the AND WHERE THEY WILL ADD THISDAY participants. Which is EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI armed forces would be used to progressively raise the VALUE TO OUR NATIONAL why we find it more DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI AJAYI, DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN, standard of our military and police services to replace MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO DEVELOPMENT EFFORT appealing that NYSC DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE the present predominance of illiterates that have compli- be reformed to ensure CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI cated the work of internal security and national defence. overall effectiveness and efficiency. Such reform package EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN The prospect of an elite national defence force should MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE could focus on five inter-related areas: security, funding, interest those concerned with our resent disorderly state branding, content, and structure. It will also involve the of internal security. reform of the current approach of the major but compro- Whatever the preferred option, the point remains that THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED mised milestones in the life of corps members—from EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA the NYSC is overdue for a thorough review and reform mobilisation, through orientation, primary assignment, GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, or both. However, we believe that we should review ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI community development to passing out. DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS BOLAJI ADEBIYI, PETER IWEGBU, the scheme in a manner that helps to alleviate the Posting corps members to areas of urgent national ANTHONY OGEDENGBE unemployment situation. We need a programme that needs will offer the country multiple dividends. One, DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI allows young graduates to gain a breather in some form SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH it will allow for better and a more even deployment of ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI of government supported employment while they scout manpower and ensure focus and greater contribution CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI for better opportunities. But they should be engaged in DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO to national development. Two, by ending the specter HEAD, COMPUTER DEPARTMENT PATRICIA UBAKA-ADEKOYA sectors where they are needed, and where they will add of rejected and under-utilised corps members, it will TO SEND EMAIL: first [email protected] value to our national development effort.

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IN PRAISE OF SUNDAY AKPAN DRIVEN TO DISTRACTIONPAN

esides the career fulfillment that comes with the maker, sharer and taker of policies; all of which he has done ntelligent cars have been a part of our culture since position, permanent secretaries enjoy even in dispassionately over the years at the Ministry of Mines and the 1980s starting with the Knight Rider’s “Kitt”, a car retirement, socio-political and economic influences. Steel and in his present Ministry of Science and Technology. probably far more intelligent than its driver. The Bat- The praxis of a permanent secretary can be ana- Judging by the number of policies which Mr Akpan has mobile is always on call for Batman and with a push lyzed in terms of his/her activities as they bear advocated in bringing about a stable policy environment; of a button it would locate him and drive there. Of on government policy directions. A permanent or those for which he very easily connects with the minds course, having an automatic car with heavy weaponry Bsecretary’s worth can be gauged by the contributions they of his principals to advance the practicability and general Imay not be the best option for the average suburban driver. make to a variety of departmental policy initiatives and the acceptance of their policy initiatives, it can arguably be A question may be what happens when the person using conduct of government business. This implies that in addition said that he is a policy technician highly practiced in an auto-drive car is drunk, are they drink driving or drink to their absolute loyalty and neutrality which demand that government. Mr Akpan, a man of immeasurable standard, auto-driving? A drunken slur may cause confusion as to which the expression of their personal political views or ideological is successfully deploying his ability, skill and experience in Cambridge to send them to, the one in Massachusetts, America or prejudices do not constitute so strong a commitment to one managing policy programmes in support of the minister in the University town in England. Should the auto-drive cars share political party as to inhibit loyal and effective service to delivering on the science and technology-driven develop- the locations of Police Alcohol Testing stations so that their drunk governments of divergent political persuasions within the ment programmes articulated by the government of the passengers won’t get a fine? policy environment of their operations, a permanent secretary day. Auto-drive cars can be programmed to do anything including to should and must be proactive, dynamic and broad-minded. The Science and Technology Ministry has a very tall kill, well actually to selectively kill. If an accident is going to hurt To the extent that the civil service is an indispensable pivot mandate which among others include promoting significant the passengers or someone outside, then being inside the car is the in nation – building, persons to be elevated to the status of scientific and technological research potential of Nigeria best option. a permanent secretary should display impeccable character with a view to helping local industries move up the inter- Hackers could lead to more worrying possibilities. Anarchists and sound intellect with a deep understanding of the practice national value chain based on business activities, intensive could create havoc by simply sending all of the auto drive cars onto of public bureaucracy. Nonetheless, the degree of attention knowledge and generating higher added value. These are the major roads and then have them stop in the middle of every a permanent secretary receives derives from the critical laudable targets for a country that truly aspires to greatness intersection. role assigned to his or her ministry and how effectively but achieving them requires the exertion of centralists par The end won’t come with the terminators shooting us down but he functions to foster the achievement of those mandates, excellence in the likes of Mr Akpan who has consistently rather it will be the auto-drive cars running us down. Maybe it’s including his empathy for staff of the organization. In this shown remarkable zeal in implementing pragmatically time to saddle up the horses again. realm, Mr Akpan Sunday Edet, permanent secretary, Ministry political will through workable policy outcomes. Dennis Fitzgerald, Melbourne, Australia of Science and Technology has carved a niche for himself as a Musa Wada, Abuja 16 WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY 17 18 THISDAY ˾WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG Email [email protected] MIDWEEKPOLITICS 08114495324 SMS ONLY A Perplexing Political Killing in Owerri The gruesome murder of a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and political adviser to former President Goodluck Ebere Jonathan on Sunday morning in Imo State poses intriguing questions, write Nseobong Okon-Ekong and Amby Uneze

Buhari Jonathan Uzodinma Gulak

hen the one-time factional chaired the APC Governorship Primary moment except those who killed him that 07:20hours, armed bandits intercepted and chairman of the Peoples Election Committee in Imo State, refused fateful Sunday morning. It is obvious that attacked a Toyota Camry cab carrying Ahmed Democratic Party (PDP), to sign an alleged forged primary election his killers had monitored his activities and Gulak and two others who were on their way Senator Ahmed Gulak left result, which declared Nwosu the winner of movements in Owerri. It is also pertinent to to Sam Mbakwe Airport to catch a flight.” his political base in Abuja to the APC governorship primary. In the said note that Gulak might have had an inclination The state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Owerri,W capital of Imo State last week, he did result sheet, Uzodimma was said to have of some sorts that made him to sneak out Bala Elkana, a Superintendent of Police, said not know that his end was around the corner. scored 9,159 votes; while Nwosu got 455,655 of his hotel room and board a car hire as in the statement that Gulak left his room at He would have preferred to stay behind in votes. early as 7am to take him to the Sam Mbakwe Protea Hotel without informing the police or his comfortable office and residence with Gulak secretly returned to Abuja and Cargo Airport. sister agencies in view of the fragile security his loved ones than dying in active service alleged that he narrowly escaped being As a consultant to the constitution review situation in the South-east and Imo State in to the nation. kidnapped in Imo State. He told journalists committee (CRC) for the Imo and Abia zone, particular. It has since been revealed by the Depity that he and other committee members con- he was actually expected to leave as soon as “He left without any security escorts and President of the Senate, Senator Ovie Omo- ducted a peaceful exercise, which produced the event ended. The Owerri zone of the CRC while the cab driver took irregular route to Agege that the former political adviser to Uzodimma as the party’s standard bearer led by Senator had its first the airport, six armed bandits who rode in a former President , was in for the 2019 governorship election for Imo sitting on Wednesday and was supposed to Toyota Sienna intercepted, identified and shot Imo State to attend the public hearing of the State. He said Uzodinma won after securing round off the following day being Thursday at Ahmed Gulak at around Umueze Obiangwu constitution review organised by the Senate. “423,895 votes to defeat eight other aspirants, because it was a two-day event. Maybe, he in Ngor-Okpala Local Government Area close Gulak, according to Omo-Agege was one of including Governor Rochas Okorocha’s son stayed back to finalize the proceedings of to the Airport. The Commissioner of Police Imo the consultants to the Senate Committee on in-law, Uche Nwosu.” the two-day public hearing that delayed his State, CP Abutu Yaro, has directed a discreet Constitution Review. He was said to have Gulak alleged that about nine out of the leaving alongside other members and senators investigation into the matter as Tactical and gone to the lImo State capital for the zonal 12-member committee were “kidnapped,” by that came for the hearing from Abuja. How Special Forces have been deployed to cordon public hearing on constitution review for persons he described as “agents of the gov- come he stayed an extra three days in Owerri the area and arrest perpetrators,” he added. the South-East geopolitical zone. ernor” who were led by a team of policemen after the end of the programme? But there have been reports there four A charismatic Northern politician who was to the hotel where the committee members persons in the car-Gulak and Mr. Ben were at home in the Southern of the country, Gulak were lodged. He alleged also that he sneaked Police Reaction in the back of the car, while an escort took the exhumed the aura of juggernaut who could out of Owerri “under the cover of darkness at When the news of the killing filtered in, passenger seat in front with the driver. When could be depended on to fix anything on the about 4:00 a.m” to make his way to Abuja. It journalists in a bid to confirm the authentic- their vehicle was accosted, the killers were field of politics. He is a very good friend of is a curious irony that Gulak will eventually ity of the information experienced a very not sure who Gulak was. The Adamawa born the likes of Hon. New Nwoko. die in Owerri where he escaped being held difficult moment to get any clue from the politician and lawyer saved his companion Gulak had been a successful politician in against his will two years ago. Some reports police. Several calls were put across to the by identifying himself, telling the assailants every ramification considering the plum say he was with a certain Mr. Ben from the state police public relations officer, all to no to shoot him and leave the others. positions he held while alive. Apart from South-west who was also a member of the avail. At this point, correspondents of national being a former presidential adviser on Political 2019 APC Imo Governorship Primary. This media organizations bravely sent ‘breaking Second Police Statement Affairs to former President GoodluckJonathan, information has set tongues wagging because news’ to their organizations, even without At about 10.20pm same Sunday, another he was also the chairman of 2019 governor- this Mr. Ben was not part of the Constitution being too sure of the information. news release emanated from the Police, ship Primary Election Committee for APC Review Committee assignment that suppos- However, at about midday, the police this time, announcing the killing of those in Imo State. It was he who handed over the edly took Gulak to Owerri. news release confirming the killing hit the that murdered Ahmed Gulak while their APC governorship ticket to Senator Hope airwave and waiting hands grabbed it with operational vehicles were recovered. In the Uzodimma amidst controversies that trailed The Politics of Assassination every sense of seriousness. Confirming the statement, Elkana stated that the operatives the exercise. He allegedly rejected a bribe Naturally nobody had expected that Ahmed murder of the APC chieftain, the police, in a overpowered the gunmen during the gun of over USD2 million from the incumbent Gulak would be joining his ancestors at this statement, said: “On the 30/5/2021, at about duel, adding that the two Armoured Personnel government at the time to do its bidding. Carriers (APC) used during the operation The bitter battle for the 2019 governorship were riddled with bullets. APC ticket in Imo led to fictionalisation of The statement said: “On 30th May, 2021, the party and the eventual exit of Mr. Uche Having established the identity of the assailants and following distress received by the command Nwosu, son in-law to former governor Sena- the description of the vehicles used in carrying out the on the gruesome murder of Ahmed Gulak, tor Rochas Okorocha and his loyalists to the Police Special Forces, made up of Intelligence Action Alliance (AA). attack, the teams further got details of the direction the Response Team, Police Mobile Force (PMF) and Tactical Units from the command, were Thoroughbred Politician hoodlums have taken. With further leads, the team was deployed to the scene at Obiangwu Junction The late Ahmed Gulak was born in Ad- able to establish the location of suspects. The suspects at Ngor Okpala LGA of Imo State. The teams amawa State. He was a lawyer and a consum- were given a clear instruction to identify and mate politician who was elected a member of were rounded up at Afor Enyiogugu junction in Aboh- apprehend the perpetrators of the act with the Adamawa State House of Assembly and Mbaise Local Government Area. The hoodlums were met a view to bringing them to justice. served as the Speaker of the House. In 2014, “Eyewitness accounts, especially the ac- he showed interest to govern his state hence distributing onions to locals from a trailer they confiscated. count given by the driver of the vehicle that he picked a form to run for the governorship was conveying Ahmed Gulak to the airport position on the platform of the PDP. Dissatis- The trailer was loaded with onions from the Northern region before the attack, gave a vivid description fied with the goings on in the party at the of Nigeria. On sighting the police, the hoodlums providing of the assailants and the vehicles they used time, Gulak in 2016 declared himself the new in carrying out the attack. national chairman of the PDP. He defected security coverage to those sharing the onions opened fire The assailants were said to have used a from PDP to APC in 2018 and played some on the police teams. The gallant and battle-ready police Toyota Camry 2005 model with silver colour; key roles in the party until his death. Toyota Sienna 1998 Model with golden colour; Gulak conducted the last gubernatorial officers swiftly returned the fire. The six hoodlums who Toyota Hilux with white colour; and a Lexus primaries in Imo State where Senator Hope RX 330 with golden Colour. (Registration Uzodimma emerged as the candidate of the carried out the killings and four other members of their numbers are withheld for security reasons). APC. Uzodimma contested against Mr. Uche gang were fatally injured. Three out of the four vehicles “Having established the identity of the Nwosu, a son-in-law of his predecessor, Rochas Okorocha. However, Gulak, who used in attacking Gulak were recovered Continued on page 19 THISDAY ˾WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 19 POLITICS

A Perplexing Political Killing in Owerri GOVERNANCE IN PHOTOS

Omo-Agege Okorocha L-R: Governor, Alhaji Inuwa Yahaya, former governor, Senator Danjuma Goje and former governor, Alhaji Ali Modu Sheriff sharing an issue of interest during the mid-term ceremony in Gombe assailants and the description of the vehicles Buhari expressed his condolences to the used in carrying out the attack, the teams fur- family of the deceased, the people and govern- ther got details of the direction the hoodlums ment of Adamawa State as well as his friends have taken. With further leads, the team was and associates all over the country. able to establish the location of suspects. The On his part, Jonathan described Gulak’s suspects were rounded up at Afor Enyiogugu death as a painful loss, noting that the deceased junction in Aboh-Mbaise Local Government was a loyal public servant and dedicated Area. The hoodlums were met distributing patriot. In a statement yesterday by his Spe- onions to locals from a trailer they confiscated. cial Adviser on Media, Mr. Ikechukwu Eze, The trailer was loaded with onions from the Jonathan prayed God to comfort his family Northern region of Nigeria. and grant his soul eternal rest. “On sighting the police, the hoodlums He said: “I received with shock the death providing security coverage to those sharing of Alhaji Ahmed Gulak who died on Sunday, the onions opened fire on the police teams. May 30, 2021, in Owerri, Imo State. “Gulak was The gallant and battle-ready police officers a loyal public servant and dedicated patriot swiftly returned the fire. The six hoodlums who gave his all in service to his country. who carried out the killings and four other His death is a painful loss to me and many members of their gang were fatally injured. others who worked and interacted with him.” Three out of the four vehicles used in attacking Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo Gulak were recovered. state also described the news of the death of “Three AK-47 rifles, one pistol, five AK- 47 Gulak as shocking and disturbing. Akeredolu, magazines with ninety two rounds of live in a statement he personnaly signed and made ammunition and criminal charms were re- available to journalists in Akure, also described covered. During the encounter, two of the as “unacceptable,” the statement credited to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State (r) and former Governor at the recent Aba police armoured personnel carriers were the Imo State Police Command that some Business Summit riddled with bullets but survived the gun bandits were responsible for Gulak’s murder. battle”, they said. He said: “This is one murder too many. It is senseless and wicked. The perpetrators of this Controversial Killing of Hoodlums heinous act are enemies of this country. “This In as much as the police said they had killed contrivance is meant to mislead, confuse and the assailants of Ahmed Gulak some hours destroy. It bears the unmistakable, despicable the act took place, the question which are yet imprints of fifth columnists bent on setting the to be answered by the same police is that if country on the path of conflagration. These the killers were gunned down, who then will criminals must not be allowed to succeed”. provide clue to unravel the real masterminds Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma of the killing of Gulak? With the denial of the whose reaction took over 24 hours to come indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) absolving however, bemoaned the way the former its members of involvement in the killing of Political Adviser was assassinated, saying the former presidential adviser, how can the he did not deserve to die that way. assassins be identified? In a statewide broadcast Monday evening, The Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Uzodimma said “the pain of losing a person Yaro while fielding questions from ARISE or loved one, the horror of holding your Television, Monday night, was evasive. All family member in his or her final moments, the questions posed to him were unanswered the anger of someone being so reckless, so and the news presenters had to cut off the thoughtless that their bullet destroyed your telephone interview for want of answers. life, are emotions no individual should ever Many who conversant with the operation have to endure.” of the Nigeria Police wonder when they sud- He described Gulak as an invaluable brother L-R: Institute Librarian, National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Dr Emmanuel Mamman; denly became so swift and efficient in dealing and friend as his murder was a personal loss Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, during a courtesy visit by the decisively with criminals, when there are to him. “I sympathize with the families of 35 participants of the Senior Executive Course 43 of the Institute to Lagos state governor in Alausa, Ikeja... many high profile murders that are yet to be those who lost their lives through stray bul- recently solved. They readily point to the murder of lets during this period. As you know, the the Minister of Justice and Attorney General death of anyone diminishes mankind,” the of the Federation, the late Choef Bola Ige Governor said. was killed on Dec 23, 2001. Chief Funsho “The death of this compatriot is a personal Williams, a leading politician in Lagos State loss to me because he was an invaluable friend killed on July 27, 2006. Air Chief Marshal and brother whose sense of justice, fairness Alex Badeh was assassinated on December and uprightness endeared him to me. I was 18, 2018. Killers of these three men are still shocked to my marrows when the sad news at large. Ahmed Gulak was killed on Sunday of his callous murder was broken to me. morning. By noon, Nigeria Police found his “I was getting ready to go to church when killers. the sad news came and I could not attend the service again. It was simply one of the Condemnations most devastating news I have had in my life Dozens of condemnations have trailed the and I am yet to recover from the shock. It murder to Ahmed Gulak. President Muham- remains a puzzle to me why anyone would madu Buhari in a statement by his spokesman, want to murder him in this gruesome and Mallam Garba Shehu, expressed dismay over vicious manner.” such premeditated and gruesome murder of Governor Uzodimma continued: “Alhaji Gulak by those he described as “evil people Ahmed Gulak was in Imo State for a national who are determined to undermine the peace, assignment. He came to Owerri with the Senate unity and territorial integrity of our country.” Committee on Constitutional Amendment. He, however, warned that nobody or group Being a humble man, he chose to travel in- of people who engage in such despicable acts cognito according to his friend who was with should expect to go free, adding that “we will him. Someone must have trailed him from deploy all resources at our disposal to ensure the hotel to the airport. That is exactly why that such callous and criminal elements are his gruesome murder appears to be a clear Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu (right) and others, during the inauguration of the new State of the Art brought to justice.” case of political assassination. Woven Sacks and Shrink Laminate Plant at Adama plastic Limited in Yola...recently 20 THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi FEATURES Email [email protected], 07010510430 Assessing Critical Sectors of the Buhari Adminstration Six years after the President Muhammadu Buhari's administration took over the helm of affairs in 2015, Rebecca Ejifoma assesses his administration in critical sectors n Saturday May 29, the President, like Bodo-Bonny in Rivers and Apapa-Oshodi- Housing Muhammadu Buhari, marked his Oworonshoki-Ojota in Lagos States. Moreso, The Family Homes Fund Limited (FHFL), sixth anniversary since he was the administration orchestrated a Highway incorporated by the FG in September 2016, elected president of the nation, Development and Management Initiative is the implementing agency for the Buhari through his popular change mantra. (HDMI), a public-private partnership programme administration’s national social housing scheme. OFor the presidency, against all odds, they to mobilise, in its first Phase, over a trillion naira Over2,000 hectares of land with titled documents have recorded some milestones in the areas in private investment into the development have been given by 24 states for the Buhari of finance, rails, roads, ports, housing, oil and and maintenance of 12 roads, amounting to administration’s social housing programme gas, agriculture, power, social investment and 1,963km in length. The Buhari-led administra- with the capacity to accommodate about poverty alleviation, sports, youth and creative tion boasts of the N360 billion worth of Sukuk 65,000 new homes. industry, support to states, education, health, Bonds raised in 2017 for dozens of critical road Under the National Social Housing pro- presidential assent to Legislative Bills, fiscal, projects across all six geopolitical zones. gramme, Nigerians will be given at least a trade, monetary and investment reforms, bilateral 15-year period with a monthly payment at six relations and asset recovery, among others. Ports per cent interest rate to pay for each housing This administration has also completed unit. CBN is providing a N200 billion financing Financing new terminals for international airports in facility, with a guarantee by the FG. In terms of financing, last year, the presidency Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt with approved the establishment of InfraCo Plc, a construction of new runways for Abuja and Oil and Gas world class infrastructure development vehicle Enugu International Airports and presidential In this industry, the Buhari administration wholly focused on Nigeria, with combined debt approval for four International Airports as Special declared this decade the “Decade of Gas". and equity take-off capital of N15 trillion. This Economic Zones in Lagos, Kano, Abuja and This ground-breaking started from 614km was managed by an independent infrastructure Port Harcourt. Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano Gas Project, and suc- fund manager. In its six years, it has approved new private- cessful completion of Nigeria’s first Marginal It also established the Presidential Infrastructure sector funded deep sea ports: Lekki Deep Sea Field Bid Round in almost 20 years, which Development Fund (PIDF) last year, with over President Muhammadu Buhari Port (construction already well underway for is expected to raise in excess of half a billion $1 billion in funding so far. The Nigerian completion next year); Bonny Deep Sea Port dollars, and open up a new vista of investment Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) saw Health (Ground-breaking done this March); Ibom Deep in oil and gas. a total additional inflows from the govern- Giving a record of grants to state govern- Sea Port; and Warri Deep Sea Port. There was also the inauguration of National ment of around $2 billion under the Buhari ments, the presidency hinted that at least $2.5 On the development of capacity at the LPG Expansion Programme (including Removal administration – since the original $1 billion million was dished out to each state of the Eastern Ports, in December 2017, Calabar Port of VAT from the domestic pricing of LPG); which the fund kicked off with in 2012. federation and the FCT, under the Saving One commenced export of bulk cement to Tema Financial close and signing of contract for NLNG Also, it further created the Nigeria Innova- Million Lives (SOML) initiative to improve Port in Ghana. And in 2019, three container Train 7, which will grow Nigeria’s production tion Fund by the NSIA to address investment health outcomes. ships berthed at Calabar Port, for the first time capacity by about 35 per cent. opportunities in the domestic technology sector: Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF): in 11 years. Interestingly this year, Nigeria and Morocco data networking, data centres, software, Agri-tech, For the first time since the National Health The dredging of Warri Port (Escravos Bar— signed an agreement to develop a $1.4 billion and Bio-tech among others. Act was passed in 2014, the federal govern- Warri Port channel) was completed in 2018. multipurpose industrial platform (Ammonia and ment in 2018 began including the 1 per cent On October 30, 2019, an LPG tanker operated Di-Ammonium Phosphate production plants) Education minimum portion of the Consolidated Revenue by NLNG berthed in Port Harcourt – "The that will utilise Nigerian gas and Moroccan Since assuming office, the Buhari administra- Fund – amounting to N55 billion in 2018 – to first time ever an LPG ship berthed in any phosphate to produce 750,000 tons of ammonia tion said it has committed over N1.7 trillion fund the Basic Health Care Provision Fund of the Eastern Ports. On December 8, 2019, and one million tons of phosphate fertilisers of capital intervention to Nigeria’s tertiary (BHCPF). The fund, it emphasised, is designed Onne Port received JPO VOLANS (owned by annually by 2025. It will be located in Ikot-Abasi, institutions through various means, including to deliver a guaranteed set of health services Maersk), the first gearless and largest container Akwa-Ibom state. TETFund – with the universities taking the to all Nigerians through the national network vessel (265.07 metres) to call at any Eastern Port In December 2020, there was the commission- lion share of the total amount, adding that of Primary Health Care centers. in Nigeria. On August 1, 2019, Onne Port’s ing of the new NPDC Integrated Gas Handling it disbursed more than N170 billion in UBE While listing the passage of enabling legisla- Brawal Terminal received MSC GRACE, its Facility in Edo state, the largest onshore LPG Matching Grants to states and the FCT since tion for the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control first container vessel since 2012. plant in the country, with a processing capacity 2015; N8 billion in Special Education Grant to (NCDC) for the first time since it was founded of 100 million standard cubic feet of gas daily. states and private providers of Special Education; in 2011, it outlined that the president approved a Power It produces 330 tonnes of LPG, 345 tonnes of and N34 billion from the Teachers Professional grant of N5 billion for the NCDC last March as To energise education programme, the propane, and 2,600 barrels of condensate daily. Development Fund to states and the FCT. part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. presidency took clean and reliable energy (solar The Buhari's administration says it established The Buhari's government also inaugurated According to the presidency, a number of and gas) to federal universities and teaching a $350m Nigerian Content Intervention Fund the Alternate School Programme (ASP) designed key federal hospitals across the country are hospitals across the country. Four universities to finance manufacturing, contracts and assets to ensure that every out-of-school child in the being upgraded to effectively manage cancer completed and commissioned already are: BUK in the oil and gas industry. country gains access to quality basic education, and other major health challenges. Cancer (Kano); FUNAI (Ebonyi); ATBU (Bauchi); and Among its strides is the financial close on irrespective of social, cultural or economic Radiotherapy machines and other equipment are FUPRE (Delta). IItis also taking clean and reli- the following the Nigerian National Petroleum circumstance in line with the aspirations of being provided to these hospitals; the National able energy (solar and gas) to markets across Corporation (NNPC)-involved projects: a 10,000 Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG-4). Hospital in Abuja has already received two the country and has completed projects like tonnes per day methanol plant and a 500 million The presidency also approved a new (ex- LINAC machines. Sabon-Gari Market in Kano, Ariaria Market in standard cubic feet per day gas processing tended) retirement age of 65 and Length of "In March 2018, Nigeria Sovereign Investment Aba, and Sura Shopping Complex in Lagos. plant, in Odeama, Brass, . Service of 40 years for teachers in public basic Authority (NSIA) invested $10 million to establish The administration proudly confirms nation- It also confirmed the ANOH gas processing and secondary schools in the country (both a world-class cancer treatment centre at the wide rollout of electricity metres to all on-grid plant, with a processing capacity of 300 million effective from january 1 this year. It further Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH). consumers initiated last August. The Central standard cubic feet of gas in Imo State. It is pioneered a new special teachers' salary scale, It also invested $5 million each in the Aminu Bank of Nigeria is providing N60 billion for a joint venture between Seplat Petroleum effective from January 1 next year, and a new Kano University Teaching Hospital and the the first phase, with a target of one million Development company and the Nigerian Gas special teachers pension scheme. Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, to establish metre installations. So far, more than 500,000 cmpany, a wholly owned subsidiary of NNPC, Under the World Bank-supported Innovation a modern Diagnostic Centre, adding, "These metres have been delivered to the Discos, and which has the potential to deliver 1,200MW Development & Effectiveness in the Acquisition Centres have all been completed and are now over 280,000 installed. of power when completed. of Skills (IDEAS) Project approved in 2020, the operational". Solar Power Naija was unveiled this April to And in six years, this government introduced presidency noted that $200 million would be deliver five million off-grid solar connections the Nigerian Upstream Cost Optimisation invested in six participating states including Rail to Nigerian households. The programme is Programme (NUCOP) to reduce operating Abia, Benue, Ekiti, Gombe, Kano, and Edo, One of the plus of this administration is the expected to generate an additional N7 billion expenses through process enhancement and as well as 20 Federal Science and Technical construction of rails. Already, 156km Lagos- increase in tax revenues per annum and $10 industry collaboration. Colleges nationwide. Ibadan standard gauge rail is nearing completion; million in annual import substitution. This May, In its record, the Buhari's government 327km Itakpe-Warri standard gauge rail has the Rural Electrification Agency announced the Agriculture approved the establishment of the Federal been completed and commissioned 33 years planned deployment of solar-powered grids In this sector, the Anchor Borrowers Maritime University, in ; Nigerian after construction began. Abuja Light Rail was to 200 Primary Health Centres (PHC) and 104 Programme (ABP) of the CBN pioneered by Army University, in Borno state; six new Colleges completed in 2018; ground-breaking was done Unity Schools nationwide. the president on 17th November 2015, made of Education (one per geopolitical zone: Benue, for construction of Kano-Makurdi standard gauge Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), also known over N300 billion to more than 3.1 million Ebonyi Edo, Sokoto, Bauchi, and Osun States. rail, and revamp of Port-Harcourt-Maiduguri as Siemens Power Programme, a government-to- smallholder farmers of 21 different commodities Others are: six new Federal Polytechnics in narrow gauge tail. Meanwhile, financing negotia- government initiative involving the governments – rice, wheat, maize, cotton, cassava, poultry, Gombe, Oyo; Katsina, Plateau, Enugu, and tions are ongoing for Ibadan-Kano standard of Nigeria and Germany, and Siemens AG of soy beans, groundnut, and fish – cultivating Cross River. gauge rail project. Germany, to upgrade and modernise Nigeria’s over 3.8 million hectares of farmland. Under the phased implementation of the electricity grid was initiated. The contract for The presidency recorded a government-to- National Youth Policy, six Federal Science and Roads the pre-engineering phase of the Presidential government partnership between the Nigerian Technical Colleges (FSTC) were established For the Presidential Infrastructure Develop- Power Initiative (PPI) was signed this February, and Moroccan fovernments in December 2016 last year. They are: FSTC Ogugu, Kogi; FSTC ment Fund (PIDF), the government invested following the 2020 approval for the payment when the Presidential Fertiliser Initiative (PFI) Hadeija, Jigawa; FSTC Umuaka, Imo; FSTC over a billion dollars in three flagship projects. of FGN’s counterpart funding for that phase. produced 12million 50kg bags of NPK 20:10:10 Igangan, Oyo; FSTC Ganduje, Kano; and FSTC, They are: Lagos-Ibadan Expressway; Second Meanwhile, Nigeria Electrification Project equivalent in 2020, bringing total production Amuzu, Ebonyi. Additional five FSTC will Niger Bridge; and Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano (NEP) provided grants for the deployment of since inception to over 30 million 50kg bags come on-stream this year, and will be located Expressway. 200,000 solar home systems, impacting one equivalent; and number of participating blending in Bauchi, Plateau, Sokoto, Enugu, and Cross As listed in its achievements, the executive million Nigerians. The NEP is also delivering plants increased to 44 from three at inception. River states. order of seven mobilising private investment mini-grids across the country. The partnership among FGN, AfDB Group, into the development of key roads and bridges and other stakeholders including IFAD and BOI. THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ 21 FEATURES

"Under the Special-Agro Industrial Processing and mainstream transparency mechanisms and Zones (SAPZ) programme, agro-processing citizens’ engagement in the management of centres will be established across the country. public resources across all sectors. For the Green Imperative – a Nigeria-Brazil In 2018, Nigeria was elected to lead the OGP Agricultural Mechanisation Programme is alongside Argentina, France, and Romania. aimed at boosting agricultural production in All four new members of the OGP Steering the country. According to the administration, Committee would serve for three years starting the National Assembly has approved a loan on 1st October 2018. for the financing of the program. This, it says, will involve the development of 632 privately- Asset Recovery operated primary production (mechanisation) Presidential Advisory Committee Against service centres and 142 Agro processing (value Corruption (PACAC), the administration hinted, addition) service centres across the 774 LGAs, has helped anti-corruption agencies devise clearer and the reactivation of six privately owned strategies for obtaining forfeiture of assets partially-operational or moribund tractor suspected to have been acquired fraudulently, assembly plants nationwide. It will also train mainly from state coffers, before prosecuting 100,000 new extension workers. suspected culprits. Part of this work has involved painstak- Social Investment and Poverty Alleviation ingly reviewing existing Laws (like the Money In 2016, the president launched the National Laundering Act, 2004; the EFCC Act, 2004; and Social Investment Programme, currently the Railway, one of his achievements the ICPC Act, 2000) to identify and highlight largest of such programme in Africa and one sections directly conferring powers of forfeiture of the largest in the world. Championship Title and in 2020, they became in criminal cases regardless of where in the on Nigeria’s anti corruption agencies. Currently, the National Social Register (NSR) of the only female African team to qualify for world they might be. ICPC scrutiny of practices, systems and poor and vulnerable Nigerians has 32.6 million participation in the 2020 Summer Olympic Part of its milestone is the bill establishing procedures of MDAs’ personnel cost from persons from above seven million poor and games. Nigeria’s Women’s Football Team, the the Police Trust Fund, which will significantly 2019 to 2020, yielded N189 billion in recover- vulnerable households identified across 708 Super Falcons, won the African Women Cup improve funding for the Nigeria Police Force ies from inflated personnel budgets. "In 2019 LGAs, 8,723 wards and 86,610 communities of Nations (AWCON) in 2016 and 2018. In (2019). Nigeria Police Act 2020 – the first alone, ICPC also recovered N32 billion worth across the 36 states and the FCT. same 2018, Nigeria hosted a FIFA Executive comprehensive reform of Police legislation of land, buildings and vehicles. ICPC’s audit From this number, 1.6 million poor and Football Summit, one of 12 worldwide. since the Police Act of 1943; Repeal and Re- of Constituency Projects covering 2015 to 2018 vulnerable households - comprising over Meanwhile, in 2019, the Super Falcons Enactment of the Companies & Allied Matters helped recover N2 billion of diverted funds eight million individuals in 45,744 communities advanced to the group stage of the Women’s Act (CAMA), 2020 – the first comprehensive and assets." from 5,483 Wards of 557 LGAs in 35 states World Cup, the first time in 20 years. Same reform since 1990, and the Not Too Young to and the FCT are currently benefiting from the year, Nigeria won its first Athletics World Run Bill (2018) – a Constitution Amendment Security and Justice Reform Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) programme, Championship medal in six years. Bill, to reduce the age of eligibility for running In terms of security, Nigeria's recapitalisation which pays a bi-monthly stipend of N10,000 for elective office in Nigeria. drive has been phenomenal. Thr Nigerian Air per household. Youth and Creative Industry Support For this administration, it recorded Nigerian Force acquired 26 brand new aircraft since In January 2019, President Buhari set up Today, this administration boasts of the Correctional Services Bill, 2019 – the first President Buhari assumed office in 2015, and Nigeria’s Micro-Pension Scheme – which allows establishment of the N75 billion National comprehensive reform of prison legislation in is expecting another 12 (the 12 Super Tucano self-employed persons and persons working in Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) approved by close to five decades. Suppression of Piracy currently on order from the United States organisations with less than three employees to the President, Buhari, last year. In 2019, the FG and other Maritime Offences Bill, 2019 – the Government, due for delivery starting July save for the provision of pension at retirement added creative industries to the list of qualifying first anti-piracy legislation in West Africa; and 2021). The NAF is also locally re-activating or incapacitation. sectors for Pioneer Status’ Incentives, which a Bill to grant financial autonomy to States’ several previously unserviceable planes. Accordingly, the Buhari government established grants relief from Corporate Income Tax for Houses of Assembly and States’ Judiciary The Nigerian Navy has acquired close to the Survival Fund, National Youth Investment a specified period of time." (2018), Banks and Other Financial Institutions 400 new platforms since 2015, including 172 Fund, and National Special Public Works The presidential approval for the handover Act (BOFIA) 2020; Finance Act 2019 and 2020, Riverine Patrol Boats (RPBs), 114 Rigid- Hull Programme, which had 774,000 beneficiaries of the National Theatre, Lagos to the CBN and the Discrimination Against Persons with Inflatable Boats (RHIBs), two Seaward Defence across 774 LGAs nationwide. and the Bankers Committee for redevelopment Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018. Boats (SDBs), 12 Manta Class/Inshore Patrol It soon established the Central Bank’s CO- into a world-class Creative Park serving the Craft (IPC), 3 Whaler Boats, 4 Barges / Tug VID-19 N300 billion Targeted Credit Facility theatre, film, fashion, music, and ICT sectors Executive Orders Boats, 22 Fast Attack Boats, 14 Unmanned Aerial (TCF) – higher than N150 billion disbursed dovetailed into a handover handover. Already, The Buhari Administration has since 2017, Vehicles (UAVs), 4 Helicopters, 14 River Town so far to support millions of small businesses, redevelopment work (valued at about 20 billion issued a number of landmark executive orders: Class, 14 House Boats and 4 Capital Ships. households, and young people with federal Naira) has now kicked off. executive order on promotion of Transparency In line with the President’s directive, the grants, loans and stipends. and Efficiency in the Business Environment Nigerian Navy has established a Naval Base Of course, the Buhari administration high- Fiscal, Trade, Monetary and Investment (2017), and the executive order on Promoting Lake Chad in Baga, Borno State, as well as lighted that the Survival Fund provided its grants Reforms Local Procurement by Government Agencies deployed 14 Naval Security Stations along the (Payroll Support, Artisan and Transport Sector The Nigerian Investment Promotion Council in 2017. nation’s coastline in areas prone to criminal grants, and General MSME grant) to over 800,000 (NIPC) in 2017 completed a long-overdue revision Others include Executive order on Submission activity.President Buhari signed into law, in beneficiaries since the last quarter of 2020. It of the list of activities that can benefit from of Annual Budgetary Estimates by all Statutory 2019, the Bill establishing the Police Trust Fund, has also provided free business registration to Nigeria’s Pioneer Status Incentive, which grants and non-Statutory Agencies, including Incorpo- which will significantly improve funding for more than 200,000 MSMEs across the country. beneficiary companies a three to five-year tax rated Companies wholly owned by the FG in the Nigeria Police Force. It also listed the presidential approval for holiday. The revision, done above 10 years 2017; Executive order on the Voluntary Assets As part of Criminal Justice Reforms, Presi- the establishment of the Nigeria Investment after the last one, has modernised the list, and Income Declaration Scheme same 2017; the dent Buhari in 2020 granted amnesty to 2,600 and Growth Fund (NIG-Fund) this year. thereby, expanding the tax holiday incentives to presidential executive order on planning and prisoners nationwide, representing about 3.5 As at the end of 2020, Development Bank qualifying companies in E-commerce, Software execution of projects, promotion of Nigerian per cent of all inmates, in a bid to decongest of Nigeria, which began operations in 2017 Development, Animation, Music, Film, and TV. content in contracts, Science, Engineering and Nigeria’s prison population. The beneficiaries had disbursed N324 billion in loans to over They also boast of restoration of federal Technology in 2018; the executive order (and were those 60 years and above; those suffering 136,000 MSMEs through 40 Participating Financial budget to January-December cycle, with the Amendment) on the Voluntary Offshore Assets from ill-health that might likely lead to death; Institutions (PFIs). This is as 57 per cent of the 2020 Budget, for the first time in 12 years; Regularisation Scheme (VOARS) same 2018; convicts serving three years and above and beneficiaries are women-owned MSMEs while introduction since 2020 of annual Finance and executive orders on Road Infrastructure have less than six months to serve; inmates 27 per cent are youth-owned. (Reform) Bills to accompany the annual Federal Development and Refurbishment Investment with mental health defect; and inmates with a And in January 2019, Buhari originated Appropriation Bill; negotiation of the billions of Tax Credit Scheme in 2019 and implementing pending fine not exceeding N50,000 and with Nigeria’s Micro Pension Scheme, which allows dollars in arrears of Cash Calls inherited when financial autonomy of state legislature and state no pending cases. self-employed persons and persons working in the administration assumed office, resulting judiciary in 2020. Presidential approval for commencement of organisations with less than three employees to in an agreement for a significant discount of Community Policing Programme nationwide, save for the provision of pension at retirement exceeding a billion dollars. BVN Deployment for Social Investment and release of take-off funding. The Community or incapacitation. The Buhari government saw to the intro- Programmes Policing Programme has now been enshrined duction of a Visa-on-Arrival Policy, as part of Considering that personnel costs are the FG's into the Police Act, 2020. Creative Industry and Sports ease of doing business reforms. In addition, largest expenditure line, the FG gave priority The Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) is Long overdue renovation of the Lagos and a comprehensive reform of the existing Visa to the deployment of the BVN for payroll and deploying a Migration Information and Data Abuja National Stadiums kicked off last year Regime, leading to the rollout of a new and pension audits. The use of BVN to verify payroll Analysis System (MIDAS) at five International ahead of concessioning for private management. enhanced Visa Policy for Nigeria in 2020, entries on the Integrated Personnel Payroll Airports. MIDAS is a global real-time border The list also shows that in 2018, the National including expansion from six visa categories Information System (IPPIS) platform has so management system developed by the Interna- Sports Festival was held for the first time since to 79 – each tailored to a specific type of far led to the detection of 54,000 fraudulent tional Organisation for Migration (IOM), and 2012. Nigeria National U-17 football team, the traveller – 36 temporary residence visas, 15 payroll entries. is linked to INTERPOL & other watchlists. The Golden Eaglets, won the FIFA U-17 World Cup permanent residence visas, and 24 short visit The FG emphasised that it ensured the deploy- implementation of MIDAS at the International for the fifth time in 2015. Their first ever win visas among others. ment of BVN system to serve as the verification Airport in Abuja was described by the IOM was 30 years earlier in 1985, when Buhari was basis for payments to beneficiaries and vendors as “the largest deployment of MIDAS at any the Head of State. Assent to Legislative Bills in the Anchor Borrowers Programme (ABP), airport globally, to date.” Nigeria’s participation at the 2016 Paralympic Some of the presidential assent to Legislative the N-Power Scheme, and the Homegrown Games yielded her best gold medal result since Bills include the Deep Offshore and Inland School Feeding Programme (HGSFP). Bilateral Relations Nigeria started taking part in the Games in 1992. Basin Production Sharing Contracts Act, 1993 Under the Buhari administration, Nigeria D’Tigress, Nigeria’s Female National Basketball (Amendment) Act, 2019; Federal Competition and Open Government Partnership has successfully entered into bilateral relations Team won the 2017 FIBA Africa Women's Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) Bill, In May 2016, President Buhari attended and with different nations. From rail, ports and Championship, the continental championship the first legislation in Nigeria’s history focused on participated in the International Anti-Corruption roads, as well as other infrastructural projects, Cup, for the first time in 12 years, and earned curbing anti-competition practices; establishing the Summit organised by the UK government. At the bilateral relations with China, Germany, qualification for its first FIBA Women’s World Federal Competition and Consumer Protection that Summit, it stated, he pledged that Nigeria UK, South Africa, US, Morroco, Russia, United Cup appearance since 2006. In 2018, they earned Commission; NCDC Establishment Act in 2018; would join the OGP, an international transparency, Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. its first-ever win at the FIBA Women’s World Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Bill, an accountability and citizen engagement initiative. Despite all these achievements, the administra- Cup, and went on to advance to the quarterfinals. Executive Bill, was signed into law in 2019. It Now in July 2016, Nigeria became the 70th tion has also been faced with several challenges The team finished in 8th place – the best ever facilitates the identification, tracing, freezing, country to join the OGP. Following this, Nigeria like insecurity, unemployment, housing deficiency performance by an African team. restraining, recovery, forfeiture and confiscation constituted an OGP National Steering Committee and inadequate funding, among others, which Swiftly in 2019, D’ Tigress successfully of proceeds, property and other instrumentalities (NSC), which went on to develop a National they have vowed to surmount before the defended its 2017 Afro Basketball Women of crime, as well as the prosecution of offenders Action Plan (2017–2019) that aims to deepen expiration of the tenure in 2023. 22 WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜2021 23

Group Business Editor Obinna Chima Email [email protected] BUSINESSWORLD 08152447875 RATES AS AT MAY 28, 2021 MONEY MARKET REPO S & P INDEX S & P INDEX EXCHANGE RATE OVERNIGHT 19.17 CALL 18 INDEX LEVEL 506.59% 1/4 TO DATE -9.34% N379/1US DOLLAR* OBB 18.67 1-MONTH 20 1-DAY 0.07% YEAR TO DATE -24.42% *AS AT LAST FRIDAY 3-MONTH 22.50 MONTH-TO-DATE - 1.1% Quick Takes Polaris Donates Facility to Ogun Polaris Bank has donated a building to serve as a ‘Sexual Assaults Referral Centre’ at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu, , as its contribution to combating the incidence of gender-related assaults in the country. The initiative which was done in collaboration with Ogun State government and United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), is aimed at providing support to victims of gender-based violence with a view to properly rehabilitating and reintegrating them into the larger society. In a statement, Polaris Bank, disclosed that the decision to support the initiative was taken following the spate of incidences bordering on gender-related assaults in the country. The Bank’s Group Head, South West 1, Dr. Abimbola Akorede, who represented the Managing Director whilst handing over the building to the Ogun State Government decried the unfortunate spate of gender-based violence, especially cases involving minors with its attendant consequences on victims and the society at large. Akorede noted that all hands must be on deck to reverse the menace. In her keynote address, the wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, lauded efforts of the partners Polaris Bank and United Nations Population Fund (UNPF) for the initiative noting that such partnership is intended to provide support and succour to victims COURTESY VISIT of gender-related assault. L-R: MD/CE, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), Bello Hassan; Chairman, Board of Directors, Mrs Ronke Sokefun and Minister of the According to the Ogun State First Lady, “The menace has become FCT, Mal. Musa Bello, during the NDIC Board’s visit to the FCT Ministry in Abuja…recently the order of the day in our society but with the inauguration of the referral centre, we are assuring that in this state, the government will do everything within its capacity to ensure justice for victims.” Also speaking at the inauguration, Akingbolahan Adeniran, Ogun Multilateral Organisations Seek End to State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, noted that the state would ensure proper investigation and prosecution of cases relating to gender-based violence. COVID-19 with Fresh $50bn Investment Qatar Expands US Network Qatar Airways’ resumption of four-weekly Atlanta flights yesterday Obinna Chima ECONOMY vaccination was also key. access and poorer ones being marked the full return of the airline’s pre-pandemic US network “There has been impressive left behind. increasing its gateways to 12, two more than it operated before The Director-General of the World progress on the vaccination Furthermore, they stressed that COVID-19. The airline will also be increasing frequencies to Boston, Trade Organisation (WTO), Ngozi recovery. front. Scientists have come up inequitable vaccine distribution Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Seattle offering Okonjo-Iweala; Managing Director “It is a win for all — while with multiple vaccines in record was not only leaving untold more flexible travel options for its passengers with more than 85 of the International Monetary around 60 percent of the gains time. Unprecedented public and millions of people vulnerable weekly flights across the United States. These increased services Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva; will go to emerging markets private financing has supported to the virus, but also allowing would provide enhanced connectivity to several of the airline’s global Director-General of the World and developing economies, the vaccine research, development deadly variants to emerge and leisure destinations including Cape Town, Maldives, Seychelles and Health Organisation (WHO), remaining 40 per cent will benefit and manufacturing scale-up. But ricochet back across the world. Zanzibar, along with other key traffic flows in Africa, Asia and the Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus; the developed world. And this is a dangerous gap between richer As variants continue to spread, Middle East. and President of the World Bank, without taking into account the and poorer nations persists. even countries with advanced Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: David Malpass have pledged to inestimable benefits on people’s “In fact, even as some affluent vaccination programs have been “Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Qatar Airways has remained commit an estimated $50 billion health and lives. countries are already discussing forced to re-impose stricter public committed to its passengers and trade partners in the United States, in the fight against the COVID-19. “Investing $50 billion to end the rollout of booster shots to health measures, and some have maintaining continuous services while rebuilding its U.S. network The sum is expected to help the pandemic is potentially the their populations, the vast implemented travel restrictions, and launching two new destinations - San Francisco and Seattle. We bring the pandemic to an end best use of public money we will majority of people in developing they added. have also strengthened our presence in the U.S. through strategic faster in the developing world, see in our lifetimes. It will pay countries—even front-line health “In turn, the ongoing pandemic partnerships with Alaska Airlines, American Airlines and JetBlue that reduce infections and loss of lives, a huge development dividend workers— have still not received is leading to deepening diver- have enabled us to connect to more points in the United States than accelerate the economic recovery, and boost growth and well-being their first shot. gence in economic fortunes, with any other airline, providing U.S. travellers the most convenient way and generate some $9 trillion in globally,” they added. “The worst served are low- negative consequences for all. to travel internationally this summer. additional global output by 2025. According to the leaders of the income nations which have “It need not be this way. That They noted in a joint statement four multilateral institutions, by received less than one per cent is why we are calling today for a ITC Launches Series on Global Trade yesterday, that as preparations are now it has become abundantly of vaccines administered so far,” new level of international support The International Trade Centre (ITC) has launched a new monthly made for the G7 Summit in the clear there would be no broad- the statement added. for – and implementation of – a series on the Global State of Trade, bringing together the most recent UK next week, top of the agenda based recovery without an end They noted that increasingly, a stepped up coordinated strategy, ITC data and research to highlight variations in exports and market was how to end the COVID-19 to the health crisis. two-track pandemic was develop- access conditions across countries, regions, and sectors. pandemic and secure the global They stressed that access to ing, with richer countries having Continued on page 25 Leveraging ITC’s trade and market access databases and in-house analytical capacities, the monthly briefs aim to support the trade policy debate by providing reliable, timely, and useful information to policymakers, trade journalists, and the wider trade community. KPMG: Nigerian Banks Spend “The pandemic has caused drastic changes in the global trade landscape. ITC’s monthly briefs on the Global State of Trade will help the trade community keep up with the latest developments Billions Annually on KYCs and bring innovative research and analysis to its fingertips,” ITC’s Executive Director, Pamela Coke-Hamilton said. Dike Onwuamaeze systems. as much as N40,000 on the KYC The series’ inaugural issue highlights the strong impact of the Covid-19 ECONOMY The report, which is titled of a customer. pandemic on world trade and the extent of the recovery in recent A KPMG report has revealed “KPMG 2021 Know Your The key drivers of the that Nigerian banks spend The report also stated that on Customer (KYC) Survey: KYC continual increase in the cost, billions of naira annually to average, between 15 to 30 per Challenges and Opportunities according to the report, included implement the Know Your cent of customers who start the in Nigeria,” revealed that 85 per frequent changes in regulatory Customer (KYC), which is a KYC process do not complete cent of the banks that responded requirements, financial inclusion “In this decade of gas, I am compulsory regulatory tool used it, because the process is too to its survey stated that KYC programs, increase in customer assured that the NLNG will to reduce the menace of money manual, information required process constituted a significant base, initial cost of acquiring continue to support our drive laundering, terrorist financing would be difficult to obtain cost to their operations, with 71 technology needed to implement for domestic gas expansion, and corruption, especially in and time consuming and could per cent anticipating that the KYC, more complex ownership while playing a fundamental managing public finance. last for more than four weeks cost of KYC would continue structures of some businesses role in monetising the vast gas The report stated that its in some cases. to increase. operating bank accounts and resources in the country ” survey showed that individual It also noted that the KYC In addition, more than 70 per increase in the number of banks could spend between N50 requirement could also be an cent of the responding banks, employees required to administer million and N400 million per inhibitor to the attainment according to the KPMG, spend the KYC unit in a bank. annum on KYC requirement of financial inclusion policy about N10,000 as direct cost for The survey findings added: depending on the customer in Nigeria that did not have identity and address verification Minister of State, Petroleum Resources base of the bank. centralised identity management of a customer while others spend Continued on page 25 Mr. 24 THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ BUSINESSWORLD NEWS

MULTILATERAL ORGANISATIONS SEEK END TO Food Security: Kwara Unveils 15 New COVID-19 WITH FRESH $50BN INVESTMENT Tractors, Other Farm Implements backed by new financing, to Hammed Shittu in Ilorin did not inherit any functional inherit any functional tractor in eliminate hardship associated tractors and other sophisticated vaccinate the world. tractor when it came to office 2019. This step speaks to our with agricultural production equipments like combined har- “A recent proposal from IMF As part of move to boost in 2019.” seriousness to truly transform powered by human labour. This vesters, planters, boom sprayer staff puts forward a plan with food production, The governor added, “Today’s how we farm and put Kwara initiative has been designed to and others to support our farmers clear targets, pragmatic actions, Governor, Alhaji AbdulRahman commissioning of 15 new tractors on the map of agribusiness. provide mechanisation services and boost production. and at a feasible cost. It builds AbdulRazaq has launched 15 and implements flags off the “The objective of our mecha- for smallholder and commercial “This will totally transform the on and supports the ongoing new tractors and several modern mechanisation component of nisation programme is to ensure farmers in the state. way crop production is carried work of WHO, its partners in farm implements for farmers the agric transformation plan. increased output of higher value “This is just the first in the out in Kwara state, and ensure the Access to COVID-19 Tools in the state. “I must mention, for the record, products.” series of our mechanisation initia- that mechanisation becomes the (ACT) Accelerator initiative The commissioning of the that our administration did not He added: “It will also tive. We would be acquiring more norm for all farmers in the state.” and its global vaccine access machines according to the programme COVAX, as well governor was to give bite to as the work of the World Bank the mechanisation component Group, the WTO and many of the recently launched state others,” it added. agricultural transformation Shedding more light on the plan. Speaking at Ilorin recently, proposal, the statement explained the governor said the whole that it entails, “first, increasing focus of the transformation our ambition and vaccinating plan was, “to achieve food more people faster: WHO and security, sustainable growth, its COVAX partners have set a and create jobs.” goal of vaccinating approximately Other implements launched 30 per cent of the population in included ploughs, harrows, all countries by the end of 2021. ridgers, and a mobile work- “But this can reach even 40 per shop to properly manage the cent through other agreements machines. AbdulRazaq said, and surge investment, and at “mechanisation is key for the least 60 percent by the first half success of the crop production of 2022. pillar of the agric blueprint and “To do so requires additional that the administration had financing for low- and middle- kickstarted the implementation income countries, with a very with the recent flag off of farm significant proportion in the inputs subsidy scheme which form of grants and concessional gave at least 10,000 farmers financing. access to improved seedlings, fertilisers and chemicals at half KPMG: NIGERIAN the market price. BANKS SPEND BILLIONS “The purchase of new tractors RENDERING ACCOUNT TO SHAREHOLDERS ANNUALLY ON KYCS and implements is another L-R: Company Secretary, Sovereign Trust Insurance Plc, Nafisat Lasisi, Chairman, Segun Ajayi, and MD/CEO ,Olaotan Soyinka at the 26th An- “Our analysis of the data reveals milestone as the administration nual General Meeting of the company held in Lagos... recently that for many banks, the direct cost of KYC is below N50 million per annum, but depending on the size of the bank it can rise GSK Promises Increased Efficiency, Better Performance to as much as N400 million per annum, which do not include Goddy Egene in the country, the company noticed before 2020. delivery subsector. areas of Pharmaceuticals, Vaccines the indirect cost of KYC. was determined to achieve a “The performance of our Oyelana noted that in the and Consumer Healthcare while “Banks also incur significant The Chairman, GlaxoSmithKline sustainable performance across company in 2020 reflected our last 50 years, the company we have also maintained some indirect cost in performing KYC Consumer (GSK) Nigeria Plc, Mr. all its portfolio. determination to remain strong had remained Nigeria’s leading initiatives that have continued that include cost incurred in Edmund Onuzo, has said the task According to him, GSK and deliver value to our esteemed healthcare company focused on to generate impacts by creating staffing the compliance of- before the company is to drive recorded a profit after tax of customers and stakeholders in enabling Nigerian to do more, feel shared values in our communities. fice/sanctions screening desk, its strategic objectives in order to N623.01 million for the year a challenging economic climate. better and live longer with our “We are pleased with the purchasing, installing and keep the business afloat and also ended December 2020, while a We will continue to invest in pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and results for 2020 as it showed the implementing technology, make its portfolio more efficient dividend of 40 kobo per share our brands and our people to consumer healthcare products. resilient spirit of the GSK team. storing and managing customer and profitable. was recommended and approved achieve sustainable growth and “This year’s performance com- Importantly, we at GSK were KYC data, cost incurred due Speaking at the annual general at the AGM. development,” he said. plements our sterling milestones in able to support the government’s to regulatory reporting, fines meeting (AGM) in Lagos, amidst He said the unpredicted impact Commenting on the company’s Research & Development (R&D) efforts at managing COVID-19 in incurred as a result of failure to the celebration of company’s 50 of the COVID-19 pandemic slowed performance, the Managing and innovations as well as quality Nigeria via donations of Personal report, opportunity cost incurred years of existence in Nigeria, Nigeria’s economic recovery as the Director, GSK, Mr. Kunle Oyelana, healthcare products delivery. Protective Equipment (PPEs) as a result of customers who Onuzo said despite the chal- country went into a recession for said the achievement was a result “We have experienced sustained through industry associations and are discouraged from opening lenging economic environment, the second time in five years, after of collaborative support from all growth in our business operations our partners, Save the Children,” accounts due to inefficient or particularly for manufacturers the marginal economic growth key stakeholders of the healthcare centered on our three business he said. cumbersome KYC systems.” Fidson Healthcare Quotes N4.5bn CP on FMDQ Exchange Goddy Egene and sale of pharmaceutical and care Series 1 CP, the Chief cal industry across West Africa. the exchange, Mr. Taiwo Olatunji, healthcare products in Nigeria. Financial Officer of the company, “We acknowledge the support said: “We are pleased that FSDH FMDQ Securities Exchange With over 35 registered Mr. Imokha Ayebae, said the of the investor community in Capital Limited was hand-picked Limited has approved the quota- pharmaceutical products, across debut CP issuance would allow ensuring the success of the CP by Fidson Healthcare to act as

tion of the Fidson Healthcare Plc different therapeutic areas, in the Fidson Healthcare broaden its issuance. We will continue to sponsor and lead arranger on the N4.50 billion Series 1 Commercial pharmaceutical industry, the sources of funding and lower assure their confidence in us as company’s debut CP issuance. We Paper (CP) under its N10 billion proceeds from this issuance will our overall cost of borrowing. we deliver on our objectives of believe that the CP issuance has CP Issuance Programme on its be used by Fidson Healthcare to “It will also strenAgthen innovation and development provided the company with access platform. Fidson Healthcare finance its short-term working our commitment to the vision within the Nigerian healthcare to a wider pool of well-informed Plc is a leading pharmaceutical capital requirements. of building sustainable brands space,” he said. The Head, Invest- investors, increased liquidity and Group Business Editor Obinna Chima manufacturing company that Speaking on the successful that will foster our expansion and ment Banking, FSDH Capital increased visibility within the is engaged in manufacturing issuance of the Fidson Health- growth plans in the pharmaceuti- Limited, sponsor of the CP on Nigerian DCM.” Capital Market Editor Goddy Egene Comms/e-Business Editor Emma Okonji GNI Boss Lists Benefits of Annuity Plan Asst. Editor, Money Market Nume Ekeghe Ebere Nwoji impressive. She said her company point in the future from the which involves a pension fund company’s annuity business increased annuity premium by insurance company. administrator to whom the worker performance listed some of its Senior Correspondent The Managing Director, Great over 800 percent in the first quarter It is a long-term investment or contributor chose to save his benefits to include the continuous ËÒÏÏ×ÕÓØÑÌÙÖß(Advertis- ing) Nigeria Insurance Plc, (GNI) of the year from N52.5 million that is issued by an insurance money paying him certain amount flow of regular income for the Correspondents Mrs. Cecelia Osipitan, has listed in 2020 to N4.7 billion in 2021. company and is designed to monthly for 18 years or through retiree, insulation from the risks Chinedu Eze (Aviation) benefits of pension savings and An annuity is a contract help protect a saving worker annuity plan which involves associated with the investment ÜÙ×ÙÝÏÖÏÌÓÙÎßØ(Maritime) retirement benefits payment between a person usually a from the risk of outliving his the person purchasing annuity of lump sum benefits, structured Ë×ÏÝ×ÏÔÙ(Finance) through annuity plan. paid worker and an insurance income. Through annuitisation, plan with a lump sum from management of resources and Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Chineme Okafor (Energy) Osipitan, who stated this while company in which the person his purchase payments (what he an insurance company which the transference of the risk of Emmanuel Addeh (Energy) speaking with journalists on the makes a lump-sum payment or contributed) are converted into commences payment of certain diminution in assets and possible performance of her company’s series of payments to an insurance periodic payments that can last for amount monthly through out the failure of investments of retirees Reporters ÙÝËÖÏÕÒßÙÑÓÏ(ICT) annuity business in the first quarter company and, in return, receives life. She listed benefits of annuity person’s life time. to insurance companies which Peter Uzoho (Energy) of this year, said her company’s regular disbursements, beginning system of retirement payment The Great Nigeria Insurance are better equipped to manage performance in the period was either immediately or at some over programme withdrawal boss, while speaking about his such risks. THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ 25

      CBN and Nigeria’s Quest for Food Security Obinna Chima highlights efforts by the Central Bank of Nigeria to support the country’s quest for self-sufficient in food production he global food security challenge is for the world to be able to feed nine billion people by 2050. By then, it is estimated that the demand for food will be 60 per cent greaterT than it is today. Owing to this, the United Nations had set zero hunger as the second of its 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for the year 2030. Indeed, everybody needs food. But the complexity of delivering sufficient food to a national population and to the world’s population shows why food security is such a priority for all countries, whether developing or developed. For Nigeria, a country of over 200 million people, and projected to be about 450 million in a few decades, the Covid-19 pandemic has shown that dangers lie ahead if the country does not begin to depend largely on what it produces locally. Indeed, threat to food security in the country is also being worsened by numerous factors, including communal clashes, activities of bandits, climate change, poor funding, among others. To address the situation, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has increased its intervention in the agriculture sector, especially through its Anchor Borrowers’ Programme (ABP). The ABP which was launched by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015, was designed to assist small-scale farmers to increase the produc- tion and supply of feedstock to agro-processors with the aim of creating an ecosystem to link modities captured under the Anchor Borrowers’ Also recently, the CBN Governor called on create value across a wide range of economic out-growers (smallholders) to local processors. Programme (ABP) since inception. governors to make their states economically activities. The programme has increased banks’ financing “A total of 3,107,890 farmers had been financed viable in order to reduce their dependence on The CBN governor explained that through to the agricultural sector, enhanced capacity for the cultivation of 3,801,397 hectares across 21 allocations from the Federation Account. programmes such as the ABP, the Commercial utilisation of agricultural firms involved in the commodities through 23 Participating Financial Emefiele, at the inauguration of the Rivers Agriculture Credit Scheme and the Bankers production of identified commodities as well as Institutions in the 36 States of the Federation State Cassava Processing Plant in Oyigbo Local Committee Agri-Business/Small and Medium the productivity and incomes of farmers. The and FCT, from the inception of the programme Government Area of the state, lamented that Enterprises Investment Scheme (AGSMEIS), the anchor borrowers’ programme has also assisted till date,” he said. notwithstanding the country’s position as the apex bank has improved access to markets for rural subsistent farmers to reach commercial Beyond the ABP, intervention schemes by the largest producer of cassava in the world, it spends farmers by facilitating greater partnership with production levels. bank continued to focus on enhanced credit over $580 million to import its by-products, agro-processors and manufacturing firms in the The thrust of the ABP is the provision of delivery to critical sectors, in a bid to enhance adding that the country can no longer afford sourcing of raw materials. inputs in kind and cash (for farm labour) to productivity and stimulate the real sector of the to support continued importation of items that “As a result, manufacturers have integrated smallholder farmers with a view to boosting economy. Similarly, in a bid to further strengthen can be produced locally. local options in sourcing their raw materials. the production of rice, maize, poultry, sorghum, its intervention into the agricultural sector, the Emefiele said the CBN had set aside N1.5 Partnerships forged through contracts between cassava, tomatoes, cotton, palm oil, Soybean, CBN, amended the Agricultural Credit Guarantee billion for land clearing and urged the states, farmer cooperatives and agro-processors have among others. Scheme Fund (ACGSF). The amendment al- particularly those in the southern region, to also helped to support improved production of The idea is to stabilise input supply to agro- lowed for increase in the share capital of the take advantage of the facility to open up their agricultural commodities such as rice, cotton processors and address the country’s negative Fund from N3 billion to N50 billion, as well respective economies. and maize. balance of payments on food. It is a loan to as increase the maximum amount granted to He also advised the governors to woo private “In order to address some of the challenges farmers without collateral and the benefitting both collateralised and non-collateralised loans investors to help resuscitate their economies to faced by local farmers and manufacturers, we farmers are given farm input and cash to cultivate under the scheme. generate employment through agriculture, adding embarked on measures to discourage smuggling their farms, including the experiment on rice. The amendment also allowed the scheme to that this will help the states boost internally and dumping of restricted items into the country, According to the structure of the ABP, a farmer finance all aspects of the agricultural value chain. generated revenue. by imposing restrictions on the use of financial who wants to repay his loan can either do so Similarly, to further increase agricultural He explained: “We seize this opportunity to institutions in Nigeria by identified smugglers, with cash or give the central bank his /her productivity and ensure sustained income encourage our states, particularly the southern as their activities undermined the growth of produce of same value, after which officials for farmers, the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk states, that there are facilities available for you our local industries. of CBN’s Development Finance Department Sharing System for Agricultural Lending to draw to involve in land clearing. “These measures are aiding our efforts to would sell and recover the loan. (NIRSAL), developed a Hybrid Multi-Peril Crop “At least, N1.5 billion is available for land support local cultivation in rice, cotton and Indemnity-Index Insurance (HM-II). The new clearing. It may seem small but it’s a seed that fish, etc.,” he disclosed. CBN’s Focus product, which was an outcome of NIRSAL’s we can start with. Emefiele believes the bank’s on-going interven- The CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, long-term commitment to the development of “We need to see to how we can open up our tions, especially in agriculture, would, “help to has said the bank would sustain its intervention innovative agricultural insurance products and states for the good of our people and also for boost not only our domestic outputs but also in the agriculture sector through its develop- expanding coverage for agricultural lending the economic viability of out states. improve our annual non-oil exports receipts ment finance mandate, in order to help catalyse across the entire agricultural value chain, was “Please, help to make your states economically from $2 billion in 2018 to $12 billion by 2023.” growth in critical sectors of the economy such designed to protect farmers from losses during viable so you can depend less on revenues from Also, the President of the Dangote Group, as agriculture and the manufacturing sectors. planting season caused by bad weather, pest FAAC so that you can grow your economy.” Alhaji Aliko Dangote, called on Nigerian youths As of January 2021, the CBN had disbursed outbreak, disease outbreak, fire outbreak and According to him, the cassava project could and graduates to explore opportunities in the N554.61 billion to 2,849,490 farmers to boost permanent disability or death of farmers. help drive economic growth, reduce unemploy- agricultural sector, adding that if seen as business, food security under the ABP since 2015. Ac- The improved credit delivery and intervention ment as well as induce other wealth-creating the high level of unemployment in the country cording to Emefiele, more than N300 billion had programmes are expected to stimulate output, activities in the state. would be addressed. been disbursed to companies operating in the thereby easing inflationary pressure, particularly, He said the guaranteed off-take would encour- “Nigeria youths and graduates should look southern part of Nigeria, just as he appealed to food inflation. The intervention effort by the bank age participating farmers to improve their output at agriculture in its total supply chain. There farmers to pay their loans in order to sustain is crucial given the prevailing macro-economic per hectare in order to earn additional income. are many innovative ideas they can explore the programme. development and is capable of further sustaining He also said the project provided them with and engage in to get substantial income. From The CBN governor explained that under the the goal of the bank towards ensuring price a verifiable platform to access finance from the technology, IT, Logistics, marketing, distribu- Anchor Borrowers’ Programme, every farmer stability. CBN and other financial institutions through tion, inputs supply, markets research, irrigation with a good repayment record would be eligible Also, Emefiele recently appealed recently the ABP, among other benefits. systems supply and also quality assurance,” to get a solar home system that will provide to bandits and others involved in unlawful Emefiele said the current situation had made it Dangote stated. electricity to power their essential home ap- activities to drop their arms and embrace the imperative for the central bank to work towards Also, the Minister of Agriculture and Rural pliances. He expressed hope that the incentive central bank’s ABP. supporting programmes to enable greater Development, Alhaji Sabo Nanono, said the would improve the standard of living of farmers According to Emefiele, his appeal to criminals cultivation and processing of key agricultural country must strive to grow its food despite in Nigeria, motivate prompt loan repayment to embrace family is because there is a linkage commodities. the current security challenges facing it. and ultimately enhance the sustainability of between security and economic growth. He said so far, the apex bank’s developmental “Obviously, we cannot succumb to our security the programme. “If you want an economy to grow, the level finance initiatives had been focused on creating challenges, we have to eat, we have to farm “Loan repayment is the hallmark of every credit of insecurity must be low because if there is a an enabling environment to drive both public whether there is security or not and that is cycle and the sustainability of the programme high level of insecurity like what we see today, and private sectors’ participation in the real absolutely necessary. is hinged on farmers’ ability and willingness the economy will suffer. I, therefore, would like sector with strategic deliverables around price “The security matter is not affecting agriculture to repay their loans, and we are constantly to appeal to our brothers, who decide that they stability, job creation, financial inclusion, import alone but the entire country, and I think in engaging with them to enhance their trust in want to live in bushes and forests, that they substitution and accretion to foreign reserves, spite of all the security issues people have the system,” he said. should please, begin to retreat, drop their arms among others. been raising, agriculture has been growing in Emefiele explained further that over 3.1 million and come and embrace the anchor borrowers’ He added that the bank’s interventions seek this country even last year. This season’s dry farmers have been financed for the cultivation programme. If they do so, it will help them,” to improve access to credit for households and farming will multiply what we have done last of crops across twenty-one agricultural com- he appealed. businesses, which will enhance productivity and year,” Nanono added. 26 THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ

     Alade-Akinyemi: Growth Opportunities Abound in Nigeria Mr. Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, a certified accountant with 20 years of experience leading and transforming finance & supply chain teams in complex, multinational companies, is the Chief Financial Officer and Supply Chain Director of Lafarge Africa Plc. He spoke on the operating environment, the company’s performance and his career. Goddy Egene presents the excerpts:

ow is the operating environ- consistently deliver business results with excellence. ment now affecting the cement I am very fortunate to have a team that has fully manufacturing industry? embraced our ethos of ‘One Team One Direction’. The operating environment in My philosophy is “We build together, we win Nigeria is both challenging and together and we celebrate together.’ Hdynamic. At Lafarge Africa Plc, we can see the growth opportunities in Nigeria despite all the If you look at the operating environment right macroeconomic challenges and complexities in the now, talking about artificial intelligence(AI) operating environment. The current challenges have and the internet of things (IoT) taking over, impacted the cement industry value chain. In the what likely impact do you think this will have last two years, naira has lost approximately 35 on the future of accounting jobs and across per cent in value coupled with the astronomical all the sectors of the business environment? double-digit inflation. This has significantly affected The exploitation of technology, specifically AI the cost of doing business, specifically, the cost is here to stay and is a game-changer. It is poised of energy, distribution, spares, maintenance, and to disrupt not just how we live our personal lives materials. Beyond cost, there are also forex (FX) but how we work and the broader business land- supply challenges generating some constraints for scape as we know it. It will create a competitive many businesses to invest in the required capital advantage for businesses that embrace it. Many expenditure (capex). Amid all these challenges, our of the in-demand jobs today did not exist years medium to long-term outlook remains positive. ago. Technology advancement has led to increased prosperity, productivity, and job creation. In the Looking back at last year when the world coming years, as changes occur across all busi- was ravaged by the Covid-19 pandemic, Lafarge nesses, AI will profoundly impact the employment Africa Plc recorded improved results, what landscape and productivity. We have seen these were some of the measures put in place to changes in the last 5 to 10 years and we will see minimise the impact of Covid-19 on your more changes in years to come. entire operations? I would say that we are a proactive organisation Talking personally now, what informed your and as such, we were not caught off-guard when career path and who were some of those the pandemic happened. We immediately launched people that influenced your decision to play our health, cost, and cash initiatives. First, the in this accounting field? health of our employees, contractors, our host I have always loved finance from a very young communities, and other stakeholders was of utmost age. Therefore, going into finance was a no-brainer priority and we never comprised ensuring a safe because I have always been known for being and healthy working and operating environment Alade-Akinyemi analytical and methodical in nature. I always look for all our stakeholders. We minimised the impact at things from different dimensions. Finance was of the disruption that came with the pandemic. and we are well-positioned to take advantage of on board? a good springboard and launch-pad for my career We augmented our route to market to ensure our investment opportunities to expand our business Our ambition is to build a finance organisation of progression as it provided the platform to better service level commitment to our customers is not in Nigeria. the future that is agile and innovative with strong understand performance management. It made eroded. We effectively managed our supply chain technical and commercial acumen. We are focused my transition to other functions seamless. In my to reduce the stock situation of key materials. From Looking at 2021, what will be your projec- on effectively partnering with various functions and career, I have taken up roles in many functions – a cost standpoint, we aggressively challenged all tion considering all the challenges because external stakeholders to ensure that the company’s sales, procurement, logistics, strategy, and business discretionary expenses. The team rose to the occa- inflation is still going up. And what should strategy can be realised and ultimately, we create development. I am not your traditional finance sion and worked together, across all functions. We stakeholders expect in terms of returns? value for our shareholders. We have taken out professional. were clear on the challenges ahead and what we Considering the Nigerian population, current complexities and simplified our key processes without needed to do. It was “One Team, One Direction” infrastructure gap, the lingering housing deficits, compromising on control. We have implemented For a young persons who are looking up to all the way. and the relatively low cement consumption per and elevated the exploitation of our ERM system, be like you what will be your advice to them? Lafarge did very well in 2019 and 2020 despite the capita, our growth expectation is positive in the created management dashboards to improve our You must have a strong appetite to gain knowl- headwinds. How can you explain these performances? medium-to-long term. We believe very strongly in decision-making process, application of data to edge beyond your core competency area, have a Secondly, if you look at your performance in recent the Nigerian market, we will continue to execute create insights, and proactively identify opportunities solution-centric mind-set, don’t compromise on times one of the factors that boosted performance our health, cost, and cash action plan and make and manage risks. performance, be known for consistently delivering was divesting from your loss-making subsidiary. sure that we continue to provide solutions to our We have created a conducive work environment on your commitments, show empathy, and go the How do you hope to sustain this performance customers. The outlook is positive. for our various teams and an effective performance extra mile to support others to achieve their goals. going forward? management system that ensures that we have When success comes, don’t forget your source. What drove our performance last year was the Considering your competitors and their a high-performing organization. Our diversity strong market demand and the ability of the team expansion drive, how does Lafarge hope to agenda is a work in progress - the diversity that On a final note, as the CFO of Lafarge to capture and realise these market opportunities gain more market share? is not only limited to gender but extends to skills Africa what would be your parting words to despite the supply challenges we encountered in One of our immediate priorities is to invest in set, work experience, among others. all stakeholders of Lafarge Africa plc? quarter four as we temporarily shut down one of capacity expansion given all of the opportunities in Lafarge Africa Plc has come a long way and is in our production lines in Ewekoro for maintenance Nigeria I described earlier. We are very committed You have spoken a bit about your team, a good place. The fundamentals of the business are which will significantly reduce carbon emission. to expanding our operations in Nigeria. how would you describe your team briefly healthy including our financials and sustainability We delivered double-digit net profit growth, we at Lafarge and what is your philosophy? drive. We have a great and resilient team and we generated strong cash flow and cash conversion, Since assuming the role of Chief Financial I am very proud of my team. My team is are well-positioned to serve our customers better and we significantly reduced our net debt position. Officer (CFO) at Lafarge Africa Plc, what are self-driven, highly committed and performance- and capture growth opportunities in the Nigerian The fundamentals of the business remain strong those unique initiatives that you have brought focused. They all understand what is required and market. PEARL Partners Canadian Firm on Chemical Production Peter Uzoho Mr. Adeniyi Adebayo, in the It said the milestone was made desire to solve industrial challenges fulfil this commitment.” improve our foreign exchange presence of the Indian High possible by its partnership with with innovative solutions and Commenting on the investment reserve position. Pacegate Energy and Resources Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. global energy solutions provider, partnerships. and partnership, Adebayo stated “I believe this will help in Limited (PEARL), an arm of Abhay Thakur; among other CES and the partnership will see “We have a commitment to that innovative partnerships such taking us ahead in our effort Pacegate Limited, in collabora- industry stakeholders. PEARL’s wide reach in both deliver quality and eco-friendly as the one by PEARL and CES to diversify the economy and tion with its partner, Canadian PEARL, an Integrated Manage- offshore and onshore operations products as we continue to play was needed to boost local content increase the contribution of the Energy Solutions (CES) Limited ment System (ISO 9001:2015, ISO supported and extended by CES’ our part in supporting local in Nigeria. manufacturing sector to Gross has launched an ultra-modern 14001:2015 & ISO45001:2018) global capabilities. content in Africa. As the oil and He said: “I am pleased to Domestic Product.” chemical manufacturing plant Certified said it would provide PEARL said it would commence gas sector continues to grow, it is formally commission the first The minister added that the in Nigeria The 12.9 metric tons chemical treatment solutions, the formulation of eco-friendly expedient that we consider the local content fluids and chemical plant would most especially pro- per day chemical manufacturing laboratory testing and services, and products and provide superior effect it has on the environment, solutions manufacturing plant in vide jobs to Nigeria’s workforce, plant located at Ilupeju Industrial professional field support services innovative treatment chemicals among others. Nigeria, which represents a signifi- promote local content and save the Avenue, Lagos would be formulat- to the upstream and downstream and application technology “This partnership is a sign cant landmark for the country’s nation the extra cost of importing ing and manufacturing drilling sectors of the Nigerian oil and services to oil and gas explora- of our commitment and we industrialisation programme. the now locally produced input. chemicals, water and oil -based gas industry as well as other tion and production platforms, are delighted to announce it. “Domestication of products Also speaking, the Executive production chemicals to serve its relevant sectors. refineries, petrochemical plants, We also appreciate the support has been at the centre of this Secretary, Mr. Simbi Wabote, clients in the oil and gas industry This, it explained, was in a bid among others. of the Ministry of Industry, administration’s industrialisation NCDMB, represented by the as well as the transportation sector. to meet the growing needs of the Speaking on the partnership, Trade and Investment and the programme to drive job intensive General Manager, Project Authori- The plant was inaugurated oil and gas and transportation the General Manager, PEARL, Nigerian Content Development growth of the Nigerian economy. sation and Certification, Mr. Paul recently by the Minister of In- sectors of the Nigerian economy Mr. Franklin Oranusih, said that and Monitoring Board – NCDMB It will increase local production, Zuhumben, commended PEARL dustry, Trade and Investment, and Africa at large. PEARL was established out of a for its support as we continue to create job opportunity and for the investment. THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ 27

BUSINESSWORLD ANALYSIS Outgrower Programmes and Fortunes of Smallholder Farmers in Nigeria

Balogun Emefiele

Oluchi Chibuzor food supply for most crops. powder. This GFSI Markets Award recipient has However, small plot sizes, limited access to Babban Gona-FCMB Collaboration a modern processing plant with the capacity to n February 2017, famine was declared in South markets, inputs and finance make smallholder A case in point is the work FCMB has done process over 15,000 metric tonnes of raw cocoa Sudan and Nigeria was mentioned alongside production unprofitable. As a result, smallholder with Babban Gona (meaning “Great Farm” in beans per annum. The raw cocoa beans are Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia,and Yemen as also farmers are often caught in a cycle of producing Hausa language), an award-winning, high impact, sourced from suppliers and also directly from being countries with a high risk of famine. low-yielding, low-quality crops barely enough financially sustainable, and highly scalable social cocoa farmers with emphasis on quality control. The situation turned grimmer when the for domestic consumption. enterprise, partly owned by the participating farmers. Under the Anchor Borrowers Programme, FCMB I2020 Global Hunger Index ranked Nigeria 98th Historically, agricultural companies in traditional The scheme contributes to creating a secure future supported 1,424 outgrower farmers that rely on out of 107 countries surveyed, with a score of cash crop sectors such as cotton and maize, have for Nigeria’s youth by transforming agriculture PIL for offtake. 29.2. This placed the country among the top 40 developed smallholder outgrower schemes to source into a job-creation engine that helps to break the Speaking on this unprecedented development countries facing serious threats of hunger. raw materials. These outgrower schemes allow cycles of poverty and unemployment. and the significance of FCMB’s support to various The two developments, which were buoyed by companies to provide agricultural inputs (and Through the Babban Gona Agricultural outgrower programmes, the Divisional Head, the geometric increase in the country’s population sometimes, training) to farmers and then buy Franchise Model supported by FCMB, member Agribusiness of the Bank, Mr. Kudzai Gumunyu, growth compared to low food production, threw the produce at the end of the season under some farmers received training, credit in the form of said: stakeholders into a scramble for ideas to prevent form of contractual arrangement. More recently, agricultural input and tillage services, harvesting “Through our work with partners such as famine in Nigeria. however, outgrower schemes have been developed and marketing support that resulted in increased Babban Gona, Psaltry and many others who As of 2016, Nigeria’s food demand was – often with donor support – in a wider range productivity and profitability that is 2 to 2.5 times have set up robust outgrower programmes, we 243,168,942 metric tons and this is expected to of value chains including food crops, livestock, the national average. are able to provide smallholder farmers with tillage grow to 335,100,918 metric tons in 14 years at the and natural products. The programme which started with just 100 services, fertilizers, as well as extension services. pace of the population growth, which is currently Outgrower schemes are often designed to ad- farmers, currently has over 20,000 member farmers This helps to make their farm yields higher than estimated to stand between 206 and 208 million. dress numerous sustainable agricultural objectives and today signifies one of FCMB’s most significant those of the average farmer, which means more Over the years, different governments have come by bringing smallholder farmers into mutually commitment to the development of the Agricultural income. As a result, these farmers are able to send up with several deliberate efforts and initiatives beneficial partnerships with large aggregators or sector. their kids to school, build houses, and many are to stimulate growth of the agricultural sector and processors and increasing incomes by improving coming on board to join the scheme because of improve production, including initiatives such as yields and produce quality through training, access FCMB’s Partnership with Psaltry International the great impact”. Operation Feed the Nation, Green Revolution, Lower to credit and markets. Success, however, is often Over the years, FCMB has worked extensively A critical part of how FCMB helps River Basin Development Authorities, National dependent on the availability of partner or donor with Psaltry International Company Limited (PICL), improve the welfare of smallholder farm- Agricultural and Land Development Authority institutions to provide the needed financial support. an indigenous agro-allied company established in ers is by making banking and financial (NALDA); and the Directorate of Foods, Roads To promote and initiate sustainable development 2005 to market cassava produce. The company services accessible, evenin some of the and Rural Infrastructure (DFFRI). in the agricultural sector, financial services and later expanded its business line to include farm most remote locations in Nigeria. The While they had some impact, these programmes solutions providers in Nigeria have in recent development and production of food-grade starch Bank does this through an agency banking have not been able to adequately address the times committed a lot of effort and facilitated from cassava. With support from FCMB and model that allows farmers the flexibility challenges or bring about sustained change in innovative infrastructure. Most notably, significant other stakeholders, Psaltry’s robust outgrowers’ and convenience to carry out transactions, the sector, especially in the case of food security. impact has been achieved through the provision programme has grown to more than 2,000 farmers even within remote communities or areas It was evident that the private sector needed of credit facilities to outgrower initiatives targeted cultivating within 80 km radius from the factory far removed from the locations of bank to also play a significant role in the quest not at helping smallholder farmers to maximize their in 4 different local governments in . branches. only for food security in Nigeria, but enhancing yields, while also contributing to the nation’s With funding from FCMB, Psaltry’s Sorbitol Through this model and several efforts, the contribution of the agricultural sector to the development. Prominent among these financial Production Plant with a capacity of 6,000MT per FCMB aligns with the government’s financial nation’s economy. Amongst other things, key private services and solutions providers is First City annum has been established and is awaiting commis- inclusion drive to expand financial services sector players in Nigeria’s agric sector have paid Monument Bank (FCMB). sioning. Once the plant takes off fully, the company access and use to underserved populations. close attention to supporting smallholder farmers, FCMB has strategically intervened with various will be able to meet 60 per cent of the country’s The lender has also formed partnerships in recognition of their importance in the global initiatives and support to the agric sector. annual sorbitol demand of about 10,000MT per with some organisations including, World agricultural value chain. In the last few years, the bank has gone the extra annum. FCMB also funded Psaltry farmers under Savings Banks Institute (WSBI), German International Smallholder farmers are farmers owning small- mile to upscale the performance of agribusiness the Anchor Borrowers scheme, which benefitted Development Cooperation (GIZ), Technoserve, scaled plots of land where they grow subsistence and in the process turned around the fortunes 252 cassava farmers. DFID-LINKS, to further the financial inclusion push. crops and one or two cash crops while relying of farmers. So far, FCMB has supported over Analysts and experts are of the opinion that almost exclusively on family labor. These farmers 100,000 farmers in Nigeria to boost food production FCMB-Plantation Industries with the giant strides of FCMB in agribusiness, play an essential role, especially in sub-Saharan and foster financial inclusion through its various Plantation Industries Limited (PIL) is a leading the Bank is well positioned to create more op- African countries like Nigeria where they represent cutting-edge schemes and partnerships with cocoa processing company that engages in the portunities for farmers to add significant value to more than 80 percent of all farming activities in individuals, groups, and other stakeholders in processing and conversion of raw cocoa beans into the quest of Nigeria to attain food security and the country and provide up to 98 per cent of the the agric sector. cocoa liquor, cocoa butter, cocoa cake and cocoa wealth for the nation. 28 THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ

BUSINESSWORLD INTERVIEW Osagie: Education, Access to Information Critical for SMEs’ Survival Jerry Osagie, a business and personal finance expert, and the author of ‘Borrowing Made Easy,’ a book on access to finance, in this interview says capital does not guarantee business success even as he underscores the importance of entrepreneurial education and market information. Oluchi Chibuzor brings the excerpts: n your experience as a financial what they want to do with the loan (purpose)? advisory expert, can you share with So, it is important that SMEs are able to know us critical success requirements for what makes them eligible for a loan in the SMEs? simplest format. A business that is looking Based on my experiences and on for a loan must first determine what is the whatI I have seen from SMEs, there are critical purpose, because when there is no purpose success factors that will support the growth abuse is inevitable. SMEs must identify the of SMEs especially in emerging markets like financing gap either by themselves or can have Nigeria and the African continent. While a an adviser to identify what are the financing lot of people talk about financing, basically I gaps they need. If they establish that there think it is just one aspect. One of the things is a gap. that I would talk about is lack of access to Secondly, SMEs must determine the purpose. markets. Access to markets is very critical for As a lender one critical thing that I must know SMEs to thrive so that when you have products is the purpose of your loan, even if you say and services; who do you talk to, how do you want to go and blow it in a party. So I will small businesses showcase their goods and be asking myself if the purpose serve what I services? So, access to market is something that am looking to solve in the market. Do I have is critical to the survival of SMEs amongst other a product to meet the need before thinking factors. There should be good infrastructure, of if he or she can repay. When you know to support technology, logistics, payment, and the purpose, then you must know the kind of collaboration. Also, financing is an important loan you want to get. For example, somebody part of any business. SMEs require financing might say they want an additional machine and business support is also very important that would help increase business output or to SMEs. As an SME or a startup you need meet shortfall in performance. Here, such a capacity building for people to hand-hold person might not need to get an overdraft you through that process of growing from a but an equipment or asset finance facility. startup to a thriving business. Technology is So, you can say what I need is asset finance. also critical for their success. For instance, in If I am able to approach this credit company today’s world, you cannot solely depend on the or those that sell the machine and can give opening of new stores to expand your reach me this machine on credit; I would have but must leverage technology to enable you to achieved my objective. Because I want to buy end up on different platforms or in different this machine and be able to produce this and countries. In addition, technology helps SME I would consistently pay you back. At that to receive or make payment, organize their point in time you probably do not need an business, inventions, staff, and other aspects overdraft as you are not addressing overhead. without spending a fortune. If you look at One other thing I tell SMEs is to formalise the supermarket or retailer with two or more their business because it is important. It is stores, they can leverage on simple technology good to start individually using your name, whereby they pay as little as N3000 per month but for you to scale as most big corporations, to leverage what they called enterprise resource you need to formalise your business. It is also planning, or accounting tools to manage the important for you to have a business plan. entire departmental store. Then, the prevailing A lot of people that want to finance your policies in the country of operation are very business want to see what you want to use the important. In the country where you see SMEs money for. In addition, you must be able to thrive and are doing well, the policies and determine your cash-flow. How much money framework there must have added to their is coming or going out? As a small business growth. or any business at all, you should be able There must also be an opportunity for SMEs to say how much I want to be putting into to have access to information. Information this business to run it or somebody is given must be democratised. For instance, if I am me and then how much will be coming in producing wood or shear butter, I must be periodically in order to be able to pay this loan able to have the critical information for wood and also retain my business. For instance, you or maybe a country or people that need what must know the timing of your cash flow and I am producing. If you look at the agricultural have an idea of the amount when they come. value chain, some farmers produce maize and People will also say that you must have may require manufacturers in the food or a very good financial statement. One thing pharmaceutical industry who require the same is that we are using a lot of alternative ways as an input in their own production. Osagie to evaluate people to give them loans; but you must start gradually as there are things A lot of people have mentioned that and not just funding alone is important to Though you have clarified the critical you can be doing without all this financial capital is the most important need for the success of the SMEs. things that can enable SMEs grow and be statement. But it is important today if you say SMEs. What is your opinion about this more productive, majority of businesses you are an SME to have a footprint even if school of thought? Can you explain to us the various still feel that finance is one of the most it is with a microfinance bank, cooperative, Money is important, but money is not the sources of funds that can enable SMEs important aspects, and that credit plays or other financial institution that will show most important thing for SMEs in my opinion. and businesses to grow? a major role in solving this gap. Do you like a record. We even have digital banks all A lot of people have had access to funding Some can be free. One of my bosses once believe that? over. Those financial statement are often good and they have made a mess of that business. said that one of the ways to get something When people come to you, they will tell because with technology you can review every The first thing is the right entrepreneurial is to beg. Some people can get capital in you that it is money that they need. Credit money you have everywhere and as an SME education or training; you do not have to the form of gifts from friends and family as do play a major role in solving financial gap that is structure you should ensure that a lot go to school that is very academic, but going donations. For instance you might say you because few people would want to give you of the things you are doing have records and through the normal entrepreneurship system want to start a food retailing business, I want the money they have for you to start a business if you know that you do not have records of education. When you go through that, this barber shop and I need just like N300, and investors can come in with equity. But you must try to have financial records, and you are able to allocate resources efficiently 000. You might just get that from family with the democratisation of credit whereby you do not need much education to get that and you know sometimes all you need is and friends, who may require you to write people use technological platforms, you can done. Even if you go to a cooperative, you the market. For some people you will see a a one-page summary of what you want to access credit upfront up to a particular limit have a record that they know this person is situation where somebody just collects goods do, how and the returns. Gift is important, or percent especially when they know your saving, bringing this amount and we are able from someone that has a lot of them and goes even though you might not see some of the history. Credit is seen as the first solution to to give this amount of money as loan; you into the market within three days, sells them official protocols around that. Also there is solving the financial gap among lots of busi- should be able to do this to not only your and goes back and still makes some gains. equity in the form of investment and some nesses. I will agree with them even though financial institutions but to your credit union, Some will continue like that until they start people can tell you, you are putting out this I said earlier that financing is not the only local markets and association. Another thing up their own, so most times capital is not the business and I can invest, so you can either challenges facing SMEs, but in solving financial that is important is your credit status. Since number one thing even though it is one of have a single investor or multiple investors or gap that is required to make businesses grow, 2009, the Central Bank of Nigeria instituted the most critical factors for SME to succeed. you have a crowd-funding whereby people credit is a major factor and can go a long way a private credit bureau, where I am able to How do you generate and develop those come together to put money. Also there is in bridging that gap, especially to reach our check your credit history and see your past ideas? Look for the market; customers are credit which is in the form of a loan and some potential and that is why a lot of governments, performances on any loan you have obtained to critical. If you have funds and produce a lot people have started business with this, even central banks and credit companies are coming determine your borrowing character or credit of things and you do not have customers though I advise some people that except you together to solve the credit gap and make worthiness. Lenders will check If you have to sell the goods to, there will be problems. are in that line of business and understand people bankable. been in the financial system, borrowed, did However, if you don’t have the information that business before using loans to establish you payback those loan because there are on customers to sell as well as every other it. People must not use loans to do trial and Can you educate SME operators on a lot of bad borrowers and if they see you thing and you keep talking about funds, you error. So all these funding sources have their requirements to access loans? did not pay back those loan or it take time might be awash with money and not know own advantages and disadvantages of their A lot of individuals and MSMEs constantly before repayment, they have a feel of your what to do with that money. So, business own. Debts in the form of loans have theirs seek loans but when you ask them simple character and may play a major role in their education, support, ability to grow the idea as well. questions, they don’t have answers. For instance, lending decision. THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ 29

BUSINESSWORLD PERSPECTIVE NPA Channel Management Options: Matters Arising Edmund Chilaka growth of its annual throughput volumes. Company (BCC)) were set up in 2005. lighted, and wreck-free? under the emergent seaport concession Nevertheless, as I write, most of this NPA’s The Origin of the Joint Venture Partner- programme. The process lasted from 2001 The recent reported pronounce- NPA’s In-House Dredging Manage- owned fleet of dredgers and equipment ships and culminated in 2006 when success- ment by the Federal Ministry ment Pre-Concession Era in Lagos are completely outdated and Conversely, let us take a closer look at ful bidders took over cargo operations of Transport (FMOT) on the However, although the dredging regimen non-functional. the JV channel management arrangements in 26 terminals, which were offered for Nigerian Ports Authority’s (NPA) used during the pre-colonial, colonial and In a telling report of this era, the World which were emplaced during the 2001 concession from Lagos to Calabar under management of seaport channels post-independent periods sufficed for the Bank concluded that the state-owned seaport reforms. So far, it remains the most the newly-adopted landlord port model. deserves the closer attention of time, the Authority’s in-house harbour enterprises (SOEs), including NPA, guzzled rigorous and concerted effort to lift the The joint venture partnership agreements port industry operators to ensure management methods began to fail by Government subventions, returned losses on Nigerian seaport system to international which shared the former in-house channel that it is in line with the best the 1980s. There were ship groundings investments, were incurably bureaucratic, levels of administration and operation, management functions with the NPA were interest of all stakeholders. and lots of complaints from ship owners. slow, corrupt and mostly irredeemable. as attested by current key performance established with LCM and BCC in August According to the news reports, Note that the NPA had acquired some This verdict gave rise to the seaport indicators (KPIs). Various stakeholders and 2005. Coastal and Reclamation Engineers the FMOT was reported to have equipment for dredging and wreck reforms. However, I daresay that if the consultants participated to deploy this (CARES) was appointed as independent directed the NPA to re-consider management, namely: two trailing suction present FMOT idea of restoring NPA’s system, including the National Assembly, dredging auditors. The resultant lease in-house management of the hopper dredgers (TSHDs), Sea Lion and in-house channel management arrange- the Federal Executive Council, the FMOT, agreements and joint venture partnerships channels. In view of the extreme River Challawa; the suction dredger, SD ment is adopted, the previous issues the National Council on Privatisation, the relied on the execution of the NPA Act, importance of the issues at stake Gumel, the heavy-duty crane, Kakube, the which necessitated the reforms would Transport Sector Reform Implementation section 8 sub-sections j, l, x, to protect here, it is critical to make this buoy-laying vessel, Bode Thomas, and the resurface. The nation would see more Committee, the Bureau of Public Enter- stakeholders’ investments. clarification to ventilate the hydrographic survey vessel, Argungu, all of such losses of key equipment caused prises, the World Bank, CPCS Transcom Fifteen years later, one can attest to mod- space and avail members of deployed to the Lagos pilotage district. For largely by the typical bureaucracy, lack of Canada, the ICS, Royal Haskoning, NPA, est achievements by the JV partnerships, the public, all authorities, and the eastern ports, the Authority retained maintenance and ineptitude. Moreover, NIMASA, and several inter-ministerial especially the improvement in safer and especially policymakers, with the services of Tayasa Dredging Nigeria new staffs would have to be employed. committees, on the one hand. On the other deeper channels for the concessionaires’ the unimpeachable facts of the Ltd and the foreign dredging companies. Would they be willing to work the 24/7 hand, there was the coterie of local and strive for increased throughput volumes. case in hand. This was the state of affairs until the Joint rosters being used presently by the JV foreign shipping lines and port operating For, as Edmund Burke said, Venture partnerships with Lagos Channel partners to keep the Lagos and Bonny companies, which participated in the bids NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the “the only thing necessary for the Management (LCM) and Bonny Channel pilotage districts effectively deep, buoyed, for the port terminals offered by the NPA online edition on www.thisdaylive.com triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” From my long experience in publishing local and international dredging data and comparisons with other successful maritime nations, I can say that the dredg- ing of the channels is at the crux of Nigeria’s current position in both regional and international sea trade, especially as the com- mander of over 65 per cent of the maritime shipping traffic in West Africa. The aim of this comment, therefore, is to protect the integrity of Nigeria’s channel management architecture from any adverse groundswell of politics, and the reason is obvious. The reach of Nigeria’s port industry presently exceeds the boundar- ies of national politics and any interventions deemed by any stakeholder to have adversely affected their operations brook possible legal actions locally or overseas, with Nigeria’s sovereign assets exposed to judgment claims. I shall demonstrate this below. So, what are Nigeria’s options for harbour dredging in order to avoid an erroneous backward step? Is the reported FMOT directive on the matter tenable, practicable and/or, advisable? Why Dredge at all Unlike countries blessed with natural seaports which have deep channels unblocked by silting sand, many Nigerian seaports are actually built along rivers and dredging their channels to the sea is indispensable to make them functional in the international scheme of shipping and maritime trade, and to keep them to the advertised draughts. Any port is only as good as its channels and berths. Without a navigable channel, no port will be patronised by ship owners, carriers or other marine operators, because the essence of a port is as a gateway to safely bring in imports and take out exports, without damage to the vessel. For example, the Lagos port system came alive only after 1907 when the steam dredger, Egerton, removed the blocking sand shoals to gain a depth of 10½ft needed by big steamers to call at the Customs Wharf in those days. Previously, most Lagos-bound cargoes were landed at Forcados Port (which had the necessary depth), for transshipment to Lagos. Thus, from 1907 till 2005, the Lagos port system was dredged continuously using in-house management and infrastructure and the status of its channels and aids to navigation always determined the size and 30 WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY 31 32 WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 • THISDAY 33 34 THISDAY ˾ Ͱ,ͰͮͰͯ EDUCATION Ogunbodede: OAU Has Been a Trailblazer Since Inception 60 Years Ago As Obafemi Awolowo University, one of the outstanding universities in the world in the area of research, innovation and academic excellence marks its diamond anniversary on June 8, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Eyitope Ogunbodede during an interactive session with journalists in Lagos, speaks on several landmark innovations led by the institution, and how the school continues to pride itself in value addition to the body of knowledge in Nigeria, Africa and the world at large. Sunday Ehigiator was there

ell us about OAU from inception? Private Business Enterprise, and the Future Obafemi Awolowo University is Leaders African Independent Research (FLAIR) a comprehensive public institution fellowship run by the African Academy Sciences established in 1961, by the regional (AAS) in partnership with the Royal Society, government of Western Nigeria, as a supported by UK’s Global Challenges Research Tconventional university that places a premium on Fund. teaching, research and community service. The Between 2010 and 2020, we received external university which commenced classes in October research grants received in four categories. First, 1962, as the University of Ife, was renamed Obafemi we received 20 grants in dollar, amounting to Awolowo University on the May 12, 1987 in $12,583,291.54; we also received 13 grants in honour of Chief Obafemi Awolowo who lived pounds, amounting to 383,381.05; we received between 1909 to 1987, and was the first premier seven grants in Euros, amounting to €576,515.48 of the Western Region of Nigeria, and one of and also received 18 grants in Naira, amounting the founding fathers. The take-off site was the to N815,526,741. campus of the defunct Nigerian College of Science and Technology, Ibadan, and the university is Tell us about infrastructural development presently situated on a vast expanse of land of the school? totaling 11,861 hectares in Ile-Ife, Osun State in Recently, the university undertook the procure- the South-west of Nigeria. ment and installation of 39 desktop computers; procurement of generator and equipment for What was the establishing vision of the woodwork, fashion designing, photography, air institution? conditional diagnosis, aluminum fabrication, The visionary founders set out to establish a leather-works and painting for entrepreneurshi; university that would be unique in a number of procurement and installation of teaching and ways; they dreamt of a university of the highest learning equipment to meet the accreditation standard and of world-wide repute in the Western needs of 30 departments and units; radio station Region of Nigeria. Fired by the nationalist spirit Prof. Ogunbodede equipment; two Toyota Hilux vehicles and one of the age and the fervor deriving from newly 33-seater bus. won political independence, they conceived of OAU one of the few universities with 100 per cent and Comprehensive Health Centres, as well as The following projects are also either completed a university that would not be a mere colonial accreditation of its programmes. The lockdown the multidisciplinary laboratories at the main or on-going: construction of Environmental Design ivory-tower, but rather a true African university and ravaging effects of the COVID-19 pandemic University Campus. Departmental laboratories and Management (EDM) Building, construction of both in form and in substance. also caused the university to put in place the are also well equipped for cutting-edge research. Environmental Design and Management (EDM) necessary machinery to facilitate the deployment Building (Mechanical and Electrical Works), and What are some of the early achievements of appropriate technology for online teaching in How about staff contribution in the area renovation of ETF 500-seater capacity lecture theatre. of the university? the university. The university runs a Centre for of research? Others are construction and furnishing of The university started the first Faculty of Distance Learning (CDL) and all the programmes The university encourages staff to publish 250-seater lecture theater, storm waste drain- Pharmacy in West Africa, the first Department in the centre are currently accredited by the NUC. in high-impact journals and organises several age and pedestrian walkways, construction of of Chemical Engineering, the first Technology Also, the university has greatly improved its service research-grant workshops and seminars to widen Electronic and Electrical Engineering Building Production and Development Unit and the first delivery in teaching, research and community the capacity of the staff in grantsmanship. (undergraduate laboratory), and construction of campus Intranet/Internet facility in the country. service. This is evidenced in our performance The university subscribes to information Electronic and Electrical Engineering building, The arts and the sciences were given adequate in the annual Times Higher Education (THE) resources on grant awarding organisation and to mention but a few. space to co-mingle with ease, so that a graduate World University Rankings, which is usually makes these readily available to staff. Staff are also Also, currently ongoing is the Rural Electrification of the sciences could feel at home in the world widely reported in Nigerian newspapers and sponsored on local and foreign staff development Agency (REA) 8.03MW power project for the of the liberal arts, and in the same manner, the the electronic and social media. This has helped training programmes (post-doctoral research, PhD supply of electricity to the university, which is arts graduates could pick their way through to boost the institution’s reputation nationally training, and professional Dl development). almost completed. our increasingly scientific and technological and internationally. The university intends not to The university will like to acknowledge the The university also processed and obtained world. The idea was to make the products of just maintain our current ranking, but improve financial contribution of the Tertiary Education Trust from the Transmission Corporation of Nigeria the the institution emerge as well-rounded educated on the performance. Fund (TETFund) in facilitating the participation license as an electricity distributor, making it the people with a capacity for adapting to change. of many of our staff in these programmes. first Nigerian university to enjoy the privilege. How has the university fared in the area The university has embarked on a Staff Housing Tell us about some of the founding of research? How well are staff trained from time to Scheme as part of its efforts to address the welfare philosophies of the institution? The university has made significant advances time? of staff. The project is proposed for a land area The guiding philosophy of the university in research resulting in nationally and globally- Funding has been accessed for Academic Staff of 123,407 hectares (305 acres) which has already set by its founders emphasised the Omoluabi significant success stories. The university has Training and Development (AST&D) to pursue been acquired. Construction of student hostels (moral integrity) principle which entails hard produced, among its staff, a Nobel Laureate and Master/PhD programmes in different institutions is also currently progressing under phase 3 of work, integrity, public spiritedness, and an six Nigerian National Merit Award Winners. outside the university. the students’ village project. honour code. OAU, also referred to as ‘Great Nigeria’s only Nobel Prize winner (in Literature) Over 50 members of staff of the university Ife’, has in its 60-year of existence lived up to and the first African laureate, Wole Soyinka, was (academic and non-academic) have attended local What about collaborations with other this expectation. Also, a core value of OAU is the Professor of Comparative Literature at OAU and and international conferences and workshops players? defense of the rights of individuals and groups currently Emeritus Professor of Dramatic Arts through TETFund support, while many others We have collaborations with various international in the society. The motto of the university is ‘For at OAU. Also, the university pioneered kidney have attended such workshops and conferences partner institutions in Europe, USA, Canada, and Learning and Culture’. Education is seen as the transplant in Nigeria in 2002, which was the through support from international donor agencies. Germany, among others. Strong links have also dominant tool for the development of society. The first renal transplantation to be undertaken by Training of university staff on Advanced Digital been established with the Federal Ministry of mission of the university is to nurture a teaching a team of indigenous surgeons in any public Appreciation Programme for Tertiary Institutions Health, Osun State Government, Federal Ministry and learning community; advance frontiers of institution in Nigeria. The research’s contribu- (ADAPTI) took place from Monday 16, to Friday of Agriculture, and Federal Ministry of Science knowledge; engender a sense of selfless public tions to global significance in medical research 20 November 2020. and Technology. The first iLab in Africa, south of service; promote cultural adaptability and add include; identification of the potential anti-sickling Sahara was developed and established in OAU, value to African culture. The university strives properties of Fagara zanthoxyloides; mechanisms How has the institution performed in the in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute to ensure that our graduates meet not only the of chloroquine-induced pruritus and the role of area of grants? of Technology (MIT). It has continued to make employment requirements of the nation and the thiamin deficiency, (induced by anaphe venata I will say we have performed brilliantly. The significant contribution to teaching and research. world at large, but also the challenges of principles entomophagy) in the causation of ‘Ijesha shakes’ number of awards for NRF and IBR funds increased In-house development of software for university higher than mere self-interest and self-fulfillment otherwise known as seasonal ataxic syndrome. tremendously in the period under review, which administration and records; Result Processing in a rapidly changing technological world. Also, the first separation of Siamese twins is between 2010 and 2020, when compared to (RPS Software); Transcript Processing Software etc in sub-Saharan Africa was carried out at the those of previous years. The university has developed a robust entre- Beginning with academics, mention some of Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, First, the global competition of the COVID-19 preneurship programme supported by TETFund the notable achievements of the university? a feat that has been successfully repeated on African Rapid Grant Fund of the National to improve the employability and ability of our The university has in recent years achieved rapid different occasions. In addition, a cochlear Research Foundation (NRF) and Research and graduates to contribute effectively to national growth and development, particularly in the areas implantation has successfully been performed Innovation Support and Advancement (RISA) development. This is accessible to all undergraduate of academic programmes, research, staff training, repeatedly in our Otorhinolaryngology Unit. for 2020 higher institutions was awarded to three students of the university. and infrastructural development and staff/student Our medical research facilities are embodied of our academic staff members. welfare. Also, all the 93 academic programmes in the sprawling Obafemi Awolowo University Also, staff members attracted research grants NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the in the university are currently accredited by the Teaching Hospital’s complex comprising the Ife for equipment and research materials through online edition on www.thisdaylive.com National Universities Commission (NUC), making State Hospital, the Wesley Guild Hospital Ilesha, the university’s partnership with the African

THISDAY ˾ Ͱ,ͰͮͰͯ 35 EDUCATION FGC Nise: Parents, Alumni Divided over Students’ Learning Condition Parents of the Federal Government College, Nise, Anambra State recently protested the deplorable condition under which their children learn, but the alumni association of the school believes the petition was fabricated. David-Chyddy Eleke wonders if the students are learning good morals in deplorable environment

here have been complaints by parents of students of the Federal Government College, Nise against the Principal of the school, Dr. Ijeoma Ekumankama, overT the deplorable state under which students live and learn in the school. The parents accused the principal of extortion from parents; diversion of funds for the construction of a magnificent building for herself; shabby management of students’ health condition; deplorable condition of hostels; and intimidation of parents to stop them from speaking up about their wards’ conditions. Attempts by THISDAY last Friday to gain access into the school compound to assess the state of infrastructure was rebuffed by security men, who said the school was on break as students were away on mid-term break, leading to the absence of the principal. Meanwhile, a petition signed by Concerned Parents The school gate to the Minister of Education, Mallam Adamu Adamu, over the condition of visibly annoyed, said her only consola- longer valid as the facilities have been facilities in the college. Since we came their wards in the school, which was made tion was that her daughter would soon fixed. Under the current administration, on board, the entire SS2 girls’ hostel and available to THISDAY, showed dilapidated graduate from the school, so no need collapsed e-library was reconstructed, all the adjoining corridors connecting it infrastructures in the institution, and creating enmity and endangering her JS1 boys and girls hostels were tiled with SS1 girls’ gostel have been tiled, the several allegations against the principal. daughter who had less than a year to and painted, 12 classrooms comprising students’ dining hall has also been tiled The parents alleged the maltreatment of stay there as at that time.” JS3 and SS3 installed with ceiling fans in partnership with the college. Renova- their children, describing their children When THISDAY reached out to Eku- and painted. tion works at the SS3 boys’ hostel toilets as being in prison under Ekumankama, mankama by phone for her reactions to “Embankment was constructed on five are ongoing, ceilings in some classrooms while calling for an urgent intervention the petition by the parents, she reneged, block of classrooms to check erosion on were replaced also in partnership with by the minister. The petition, which was insisting that she was a civil servant and the structures, a new principal’s house the college and PTA has never signed also copied to the Senator representing didn’t have the powers to speak to the was built, and a modern gate house was any cheque in favour of the principal. Anambra Central Senatorial District, Uche media. She referred our correspondent to constructed, the dining hall was tiled and “The government runs a Remitta ac- Ekwunife read in parts: “Our children are the Federal Ministry of Education, saying painted while the school toilet seats and count and no federal government ministry presently living in overcrowded hostels that any enquiries can be channelled to bathrooms were repaired and new ones maintains a bank account and the PTA with maggot-infested overflowing toilets. them. built. A number of other projects were is duly represented in the SBMC. The The Principal, Mrs. Ekumankama defiantly Meanwhile, old students of the college, also executed including construction of continued and unwarranted attack on refused to improve these children’s living under the aegis of Concerned Alumni of drainages in the hostels, installation of the principal and by extension the PTA conditions despite all the resources chan- FGC, Nise have described the petition as solar-powered street lights on strategic executive is misguided and vindictive. nelled in by the PTA. The children are a campaign of calumny targeted against areas, construction of school pavilion, The principal of the college has been malnourished, due to very poor feeding in their alma mater and the principal. completion of Home Economics Department a lady of very strong character and a the school, despite support, with provisions The group in a statement signed by among others. disciplinarian par excellence. The college by the parents, and these happen under Mr. Chinedu Aniagboso, said it received “The petitioner’s niece was admitted under her leadership has witnessed a the principal’s watch. The hostels and with shock the publication on petition without paying a dime even when she meaningful transformation in areas of dining of these children are worst than entitled ‘Save the Soul of Our Children’, did not meet the cut off mark, this makes infrastructure and discipline with visible prison. They are so overcrowded with saying that it was sponsored by one his claim of admission sale surprising,” transformation. Consequent upon the a population of about 2,200 students.” Kenenna Obiatuegwu. They expressed it stated. above, we pray the Federal Ministry They also accused the principal of worry about the damage the publication The group called on the federal govern- of Education to disregard the frivolous channelling support made available to the would do, not only to the management, ment to increase funding to the school to petition against the principal. Indeed, school by the parents for their children’s but the institution which has nurtured enable management to meet the educational some of the allegations are laughable,” welfare to building a mansion for herself, great minds for 26 years now and still and facility needs of the school, while the body stated. stating that rather than punish students for counting. appreciating the the capital projects and Investigations by THISDAY however wrongdoings as a deterrent, the principal Part of their statement read: “We wish intervention projects funded through the showed that some vocal members of the imposes fines on them, which are borne to state that just as the case in most gov- annual national budget. PTA have been severally intimidated into by the parents. A parent told THISDAY ernment owned institutions, FGC Nise Also, the PTA Chairman and Secretary of silence by the principal of the institution. that “sometime last year, I was asked to has its own infrastructural challenges the school, Dr. Chinasa Iloabueke and Mr. One of the parents who sent WhatsApp provide money for blocks, because my which to the best of our knowledge are Chris Obichukwu, and five other members messages to our correspondent on condi- daughter allegedly scaled the school being genuinely addressed. We will not of the executive, described the allegations tion of anonymity, said Ekumankama has fence. I asked why I should provide that, allow anyone to malign and ridicule the as unfounded and distanced the association threatened to deal with any parent who instead of the school authority flogging school or its management in the name from it. The association said it is working dares to speak up against her, stating the child so she can realise her mistake, of pursuing personal vendetta. assiduously within the limits of available that upon her agitation for improved but they told me they had work at hand “Therefore, we clarify that the infra- resources towards improving the learning infrastructure in the school, in which and needed the blocks. structure and amenities in the school were and living conditions of students and she also posted the dilapidated state of “Other parents who I complained to inherited by the current management and exonerated the principal of allegedly infrastructure on social media, she has about it told me that it has been the same based on our findings, the management meddling with PTA funds. received a call from DSS Office in Awka thing, and that since Ekumankama came, has demonstrated genuine efforts and “We hereby categorically disassociate the warning her to desist from such or risk the school has always been about levies. commitment towards making them better. PTA from the publication which contained arrest. “I am bringing this to the media Another parent, who said her child was The pictures and videos used in depicting unfounded allegations. The present PTA because the future of our children are at sickly, said despite the levies the parents the state of affairs (shown on the social executive has been working tirelessly in stake. The minister of education must act.” pays, students are only given painkillers media) were taken at a time the facility partnership with the college management At the time of filing this report, there when they fall sick. The woman, who was was undergoing maintenance and so, no and the government in upgrading the was no reaction from the minister. Greensprings to Integrate Robotics, AI into Curriculum Uchechukwu Nnaike Edu360. Little Engineer programme that our school curriculum, thereby making by Union Bank. The initiative Speaking during the official students had a couple of years ago. Greensprings School one of the aims to integrate robotics and The management of Greensprings launch of the programme recently, “According to the plan, this first few schools offering robotics AI into the education of Nigerian School, Lagos, has announced that the school’s Deputy Director of training will run for six weeks and and AI at the secondary school children, and better prepare them the school will start offering robotics Education, Dr. Barney Wilson both our teachers and students level in Nigeria. This is a very for the workplace of the future. and artificial intelligence (AI) to said: “We are thrilled to have been will be trained. The organisers good opportunity for our students; The programme is facilitated by its secondary school students. chosen as one of the four schools are also providing all the robot- and they are extremely happy to Awarri - the pan-African Robot- The announcement followed the that will participate in the second ics toolkits, including mekamons be part of the exciting project,” ics and Artificial Intelligence admission of the school into the phase of the Next Robotics Legend needed for the training. At the end he stated. (AI) company, founded by the second phase of the Next Robotics Programme. This programme will of the programme, robotics and AI The Next Robotics Legend Pro- renowned Robotics Engineer, Legend Programme, organised by complement the Airbus Foundation will be fully integrated into our gramme is an initiative of Edu360 Silas Adekunle. 36 THISDAY ˾ Ͱ,ͰͮͰͯ EDUCATION Rekindling Confidence in Public Education: AGN Overhauls Community School KEHINDE OMORU Richard Akanmode million to the construction sion of 100 units of computer founders of the community, www.kayomoru.com and rehabilitation of educa- systems for the students. In and their successors, who The hope that public tion and health structures in addition about N5 million have at various times schools can be reinvented the community. is projected annually for the pioneered the development PUBERTY AND to equate their lost glory The comprehensive remuneration of teachers in of schools, postal agency, has been rekindled, going turn around of the school STEM subjects. health facilities, civic centre, by the revelation that a covered the renovation of The annual meeting, which markets, access roads and THE GIRL CHILD development network 19 classrooms, provision of held virtually recorded water projects. As soon as puberty gains grounds in young ladies, breast lumps surfaces group, Ayetoro-Gbede 700 new chairs and tables, attendance by members of It’s a little wonder then in women’s breasts. Virtually every woman has felt a lump - painful Global Network (AGN), has construction and reticulation the association mostly based that before the online meet- or painless in her breast at some time in their life. spent a huge sum of N85 of a motorised borehole, in Nigeria and a few from ing ended, a few members Breast lumps are common amongst women (and can occur in men) million to upgrade facilities construction and furnishing the diaspora. At the apex of had already committed and are of several types. For instance, a breast cyst is a firm fluid- at the community-founded of a new laboratory complex the Board of Trustees is Prof. to providing a number of filled lump in the breast. It is usually a benign (non-cancerous) lump Ayetoro-Gbede Community for Biology, Chemistry, Olu Obaro, a high profile computer sets to equip the that’s harmless. Breast cysts are thought to be caused by hormonal High School in , Physics and Information medical expert based in the new computer laboratory. In changes occurring at the different stages of a woman’s life. Women Nigeria. Technology. A 5KVA United Kingdom. Ayetoro-Gbede the spirit of undergo these “hormonal revolutions” during their menstrual cycles, Presenting a valedictory solar power was installed to Beside the school self-help never sleeps. pre-menopausal period and post meno-pausally. address at the annual general power the laboratories while upgrade, the AGN has also With the impressive stride In younger women, a common type of breast lump known as Fibro meeting of the association, eight solar security lights commenced work on the set by the Ayetoro-Gbede adenoma is termed “breast mice”. Breast mice are smooth and firm, the President, Mr. Ola were provided around the acquisition and develop- Global Network, a template and move around easily in the breast. They come just before or during Oyelola reported that premises of the school. ment of a community for repositioning public a period and disappear after a period. They may feel painful. about N24 million had Other upgrades include hospital expected to provide schools through the interven- Quite often, women experience breast abscess. Breast abscess is a also been expended on the a library, white board and basic and secondary medical tion of non-state actors in Kogi painful collection of pus that forms under the skin of the breast. It is acquisition and preliminary about 2,000 books on various services to the residents of State, and indeed Nigeria, usually as a result of a bacterial infection. Breast abscess is also thought development of a site for subjects donated by a United the community. might not only have been to be caused by changes in hormones and are commonly experienced a community hospital and States based family Mr and Although the intervention innovated, the Ayetoro-Gbede by pre-menopausal women having hormone replacement therapy. other social infrastructures. Mrs Akin-Adeyemi. of the AGN is unprec- Community High School, A type of breast lump that’s very common in breast feeding women is In essence, the 72-member If the phenomenal edented in the community, which has become the model mastitis. In mastitis, the breast tissue becomes inflamed and painful. group, who are all indigenes intervention provided by the its significance lay in the of such an effort might stand Mastitis is caused by an engorgement of milk within the breast or of the community has over AGN is exceptional there still association’s commitment out as one of the best im- damage to the nipple, milk duct or glands in the breast. the last three years raised remains a lot on the plan, as to sustain the self- develop- proved schools in its immedi- When breast milk is not being sufficiently removed by the suckling and applied about N117 the body targets the provi- ment philosophy of the ate and wider environment. baby, there is a build-up of breast milk (milk-statis) within the breast. Bacteria begin to breed and grow in this enabling environment of stagnant breast milk. Quickly breast tissues break down, the area becomes red, swollen, painful and uncomfortable. The breast feeding mother experiences enduring and searing pain in her breast whilst breast feeding. In addition to this, she experiences fever, chills, aches and pains, tiredness and fatigue. She may become impatient with the baby, irritable, weepy, and unsociable due to the pain she is undergoing. A woman suffering with mastitis should keep on feeding her baby from the affected breast. Although it is painful and miserable for her, milk from the infected breast will not harm the baby. Plenty of rest, lots of fluid-intake, paracetamol or ibuprofen may help. Warm compress, warm baths, warm showers and stroking the breast from the lump area towards the nipple give relief. Consult your doctor on any breast lump you feel. Omoru is a freelance writer, education, health and social care advocate

LSUBEB Celebrates Children through Symbolic Registration into Schools Funmi Ogundare doing everything possible to The new equipped laboratory ensure that we bridge the learn- The Lagos State Universal Basic ing loss. And in order to achieve Education Board (LSUBEB), that, we must continue to recently commemorated the empower our teachers through Proprietress Tasks School Owners on Revitalising 2021 Children’s Day celebration distribution of materials that with a symbolic registration of enhance learning.” Public Schools nursery and primary one pupils In her remarks, the state into public schools. Commisioner for Education, Funmi Ogundare the sector, had already begun a teacher at Corona Schools The proprietress also harped The theme of the celebration Mrs. Folashade Adefisayo to carry out activities to help before establishing Standard on the importance of inculcating was ‘Unite to Reverse the said in order to recover the The Proprietress of Standard bridge the gap and also advance Bearers School, Lekki some 24 confidence in children, saying Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic learning lost during the period Bearers School, Lekki, Lagos, the overall vision of quality years ago, said it is imperative that it was a major component on Children’. of COVID, with the EkoExcel Mrs. Modupe Adesanya-Oni education for all. for stakeholders to take active of the learning diet in her school. In his remarks, the Chairman initiative, the students were all has stressed the need for private According to her, “I belong to interest in matters that have “In talking about my children of the board, Mr. Wahab Alawiye- given MP3 players and the school proprietors to help in a group where we have actually to do with the application of here in the school, and what I King said the initiative was part teachers were encouraged to the revitalisation of the public taken on board the assignment technology in the school system think is most notable about them, of its tradition to register pupils work even beyond the normal schools system in the country. to help schools whose pupils are and the continued development I will say it is their confidence. at the beginning of the session, call of duty. Adesanya-Oni, who was paying between N20,000 and of the teacher, adding, “there is We don’t tell them what they adding that it is free. “During the period, we had speaking on the sidelines of the N25,000 and below as fees, to indeed a need to pay specific cannot do, rather we tell them According to him,”we have the telephone links especially for 2021 Children’s Day celebrations, help train their teachers. It is attention to the peculiar educa- that if you can dream it, you can been doing it in the past and the secondary school children, noted that the current reality is just a voluntary thing that we tional needs of every child, as do it. We are a small school, a it has become a custom for us so if they had any problem, they that several well-heeled private are doing. the education enterprise is not family school, and we believe to do it again. All parents need could call the numbers they schools are doing much better “Just recently, we had our a one-shoe-fits-all experience. that children should be able to do is to go and register their could. The supply of devices than other less endowed private first online version of the project “The big school doesn’t really to express themselves in their children. It is free.” to the students and tablets to schools, as well as the bulk of and we were able to reach more work for every child because natural environment. Because Speaking on the theme of the the teachers is just to ensure public schools in the country. people than we could have at a sometimes it goes beyond doing if there is anything to correct, celebration, he affirmed that that learning keeps going.” She said the situation is physical event. We had people well in school. It is also about it is through their expression it was apt, as government is A parent, Mrs. Sarah Michelle not conducive for rounded from Port Harcourt and other having the freedom to choose, the that we can see it. We make it making effort to ensure that the who came to register one of her educational development across places participating.” need for a bit more engagement. a way of life for them.” children are supported and to children going from kindergar- the country. She said this showed that the So some children would probably “Confidence is the most reverse the impact of COVID-19 ten to primary at Ikeja Central The proprietress, who has teachers were actually looking benefit more from a smaller school important thing for children. by bridging the learning loss. Primary School, expressed been in the teaching profession for the help, but it is just that setting. Different schools work For a lot of children, their voices “The government is very excitement about government’s for four decades, stated that nobody really remembers them, for different children. And you are being drowned out under much concerned about the efforts on the pupils, saying in line with the need to walk adding that the group is com- need a school where the children that old philosophy of children children’s psychological, edu- that the academics of some of the talk, she and several other mitted to working with them. would not just go but will thrive,” only being permitted to listen cational, social and emotional her neighbour’s children has like-minded professionals in Adesanya-Oni, who was she stressed. and not being heard.” wellbeing. The government is improved as a result. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 2, 2021 ˾THISDAY 37 MARKET NEWS

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an ETF are bought by investors. Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. investment vehicle that allows both small and Bid Price: The price at which Investors Investors with similar objectives buy units of the large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total that willl generate their desired return. investments. The assets are divided into shares that return an investor would have earned on An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. his investment. Money Market Funds report of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, Yield while others report Year- to-date Total bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, GUIDE TO DATA: Return. etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 31- NAV: Is value per share of the real estate shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the May-2021, unless otherwise stated. assets held by a REIT on a specific date. DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Equity Fund 153.73 155.26 -4.97% Nigeria Entertainment Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 3.95% GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED Nigeria International Debt Fund 302.66 302.66 -24.80% [email protected] Afrinvest Dollar Fund 110.53 110.53 -1.38% Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 GDL Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ACAP Canary Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 ACAP Income Funds N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AIICO CAPITAL LTD [email protected] Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.86% Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Vantage Balanced Fund 2.78 2.84 21.01% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 4.50% AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.21% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 149.07 149.50 -4.08% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.25 3.31 -9.73% Vantage Equity Income Fund (VEIF) - June Year End 1.22 1.26 28.79% ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected]@anchoriaam.com Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End 1.08 1.08 5.92% Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fi[email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 3.09% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Equity Fund 128.75 130.19 -3.21% Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.37 1.39 0.69% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.05 1.05 -21.20% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,139.46 1,139.46 3.17% ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD [email protected] MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 18.93 19.50 4.37% Meristem Equity Market Fund 10.85 10.8837 3.53% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 413.91 426.39 3.38% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 6.31% ARM Ethical Fund 37.20 38.32 10.36% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.08 1.09 -11.28% Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 ARM Fixed Income Fund 0.96 0.96 -14.57% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 4.03% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED [email protected] PACAM Balanced Fund 1.64 1.66 7.26% Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.39 12.45 2.17% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 3.66% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 104.38 104.38 2.63% PACAM Equity Fund 1.57 1.58 -0.56% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED [email protected] PACAM EuroBond Fund 110.83 112.41 0.79% Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 SCM CAPITAL LIMITED [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A SCM Capital Frontier Fund 126.52 128.83 6.88% CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED [email protected] SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD [email protected] Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 1.94 1.94 -24.17% SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.01 1.01 2.95% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.00 2.04 -25.57% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com ; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 3,123.57 3,148.32 -2.88% CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund 1.01 1.01 1.21% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 229.81 229.81 2.21% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.17 1.19 0.00% Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 301.37 301.37 2.28% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 214.65 217.33 -1.76% Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 4.73% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.51% Paramount Equity Fund 15.88 16.15 -0.77% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 10,096.87 10,221.90 -3.87% Women's Investment Fund 131.89 133.26 -0.95% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.25 1.25 2.30% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 113.75 113.75 2.40% Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund 101.18 101.18 - Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Cordros Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 N/A N/A N/A United Capital Balanced Fund 1.34 1.36 -1.99% United Capital Bond Fund 1.94 1.94 2.66% Cordros Dollar Fund ($) N/A N/A N/A United Capital Equity Fund 0.88 0.91 2.15% CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT [email protected] United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.04% Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 United Capital Eurobond Fund 120.67 120.67 3.06% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 2.96% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.08 1.10 -0.23% Coronation Balanced Fund 1.15 1.16 -4.45% United capital Sukuk Fund 1.05 1.05 5.07% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.35 1.35 -14.86% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD [email protected] EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 12.14 12.25 2.33% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 2.84% Zenith Ethical Fund 13.58 13.70 11.14% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 2.64% Zenith Income Fund 24.09 24.09 0.48% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,158.48 1,166.06 -3.27% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 4.50% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] REITS Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,371.23 1,371.23 10.08% SFS REIT 123.46 2.25% FBN Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Union Homes REIT 51.40 -1.91% FBN Halal Fund 109.62 109.62 6.31% EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.04% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn -- -Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund 12.47 12.57 -5.66% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 124.96 124.96 3.26% SIAML Pension ETF 40 123.46 123.46 1.41% FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 152.66 154.77 0.98% Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund 96.68 98.43 -2.74% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Legacy Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund 3.68 3.72 -2.43% Legacy Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund 5.58 5.66 -1.95% Legacy USD Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund 16.82 16.92 2.89% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Vetiva Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 3.68% Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund 18.70 18.90 -8.82% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund 159.41 161.41 -27.09% Coral Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Coral Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn FSDH Treasury Bills Fund N/A N/A N/A Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund 107.52 13.11% The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only. 38 THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ

ÜÙßÚÏËÞßÜÏÝÎÓÞÙÜ˝ÒÓÏ×ÏÖÓÏäÏÙÌÓ CITYSTRINGS ×ËÓÖÍÒÓÏ×ÏÖÓÏ˛ÏäÏÙÌÓ̶ÞÒÓÝÎËãÖÓàÏ˛ÍÙט͖͕͔͑͑͒͑͒͑͑͘ Harnessing Capacity for Hydrographic Surveys at Sea Over the years, the capacity of the Nigerian Navy to conduct hydrographic survey that would assure safety of naval and merchant traffic at sea was significantly hampered by the absence of a hydrographic ship in its fleet. To address this gap,Chiemelie Ezeobi reports that the newly acquired hydrographic vessel, NNS LANA, a first ever purpose-built Offshore Survey Vessel, is geared to provide and improve reliable hydrographic data and information as a critical component in the projection of naval power for enhanced maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea

Aerial view of NNS LANA

L-R: Commanding Officer NNS LANA, Captain Abdullateef Mahmud; Chief of the Naval L-R: Hydrographer of the Nigerian Navy, Rear Admiral Emeka Okafor; FOC WEST, Rear Ad- Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo; and Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Com- miral Jason Gbassa; CNS, Vice Admiral Gambo; and representative of MD NPA mand, Rear Admiral Jason Gbassa

ny force is only as good as its more others. are ferried across the world; ports are built, Okafor, "this feat completed Nigeria’s hydro- military equipment and for the Ni- To tackle this, the Nigerian Navy has had to coastal infrastructure are developed, coasts graphic capacity development as required by gerian Navy (NN), its platforms. patrol the endless miles of waterways despite are defended, marine environmental plans are the IHO". This is because in protecting the some major challenges like shortage of Off- implemented. Also, cables carrying data run the Essentially, with the induction of the state-of- domestic and even external territo- shore Patrol Vessels (OPV), budget constraints, length and breadth of the earth, enabling more the art offshore survey vessel, with autonomous rialA integrity, aggressive fleet recapitalisation inadequate local ship building capacity for than 3.7 billion humans use the internet daily. capabilities, this has ensured that the navy will strategy must be enabled. Firm believers of this constructing naval vessels and inadequate One of the unseen forces that makes these be fully poised to provide up-to-date marine ideology, the NN recently boosted its fleet by surveillance. possible is a hydrographer. Without the services geo-spatial information of Nigerian waters taking delivery of its first ever purpose-built The challenge is even pronounced given that of hydrographers, who provide charts and other to diverse maritime operators, for enhanced Offshore Survey Vessel, Nigerian Navy Ship the navy not just protects Nigeria's territorial nautical publications, voyages through the sea economic growth of Nigeria. (NNS) LANA, from Saint Nazaire, France. integrity but also contributes its quota at the would have become a nightmare to captains of According to the Director of Naval Informa- However, beyond its role in the recapitalisa- regional level, by patrolling the waters of the ships, who need to move goods and services tion (DINFO), Commodore Suleman Dahun, tion process, the new vessel is unique in the Gulf of Guinea, which is a vast expanse of from one part of the world to the order in a it is envisaged that the rebirth of NNS LANA sense that it will boost hydrographic survey in water stretching almost 6,000km from Senegal safe and economical way. would afford the Nigerian Navy Hydrographic the nation's maritime domain. After its launch to Angola. Over the years, the Nigerian Navy, in line Department the leverage to successfully and in France, the vessel began its journey home But today, some of these challenges are gradu- with her constitutional roles, has been build- systematically conduct hydrographic surveys and was received at the jetty of Nigerian Navy ally becoming a thing of the past especially ing both human and material capacities to and charting of Nigeria’s waters. Ship (NNS) BEECROFT last month, just in time when it comes to fleet acquisition, surveillance enable her provide hydrographic services He said: "It would also afford Nigeria with the before the now cancelled NN anniversary week. and ship building capacity. that meets international standard. These ef- opportunity of keying into the General Bathy- forts have paid off. In recent times, Nigerian metric Charts of the Oceans (GEBCO) Seabed Maritime Illegalities Role of Hydrography Navy Hydrographic Office (NNHO) ramped 2030 project and the Global Multi-Resolution Although 70 per cent of Nigeria's economic It's a known fact that over 90 per cent of the up its hydrographic capabilities with several Topography (GMRT) synthesis project which growth lies on the waterways, the maritime world’s trade is conducted by the sea, and first-of-its-kind products to support Nigeria’s would ultimately facilitate Nigeria’s accomplish- domain is often fraught with the challenges of this is, by far, the most cost-effective way to Blue Economy project. This was seen during ment of its obligation under SOLAS Convention maritime illegalities ranging from piracy, sea move large quantity of goods and raw materials the last World Hydrography Day (WHD) when in accordance with President Muhammadu robbery, smuggling, illegal fishing to brazen around the world. the NNHO published the first indigenous navi- Buhari’s deliberate and sustained policies on crude oil theft, proliferation of illegal refinery, Thus, it would be safe to say that world gational chart ever produced by Nigeria; NG maritime safety and security." destruction of critical infrastructure for oil and economies have been hugely dependent on 2501 (Lagos Harbour Chart) with much fanfare. gas, reckless violent crimes such as kidnapping, various maritime activities. Daily, about 180,000 According to the Hydrographer of the Navy Fleet Recapitalisation hijack and attack on security forces and many vessels take to sea, 30 million tons of goods during the last WHD, Rear Admiral Emeka Asides its hydrographic role, the vessel is a THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ 39 CRIME&SECURITY

Cross section of senior officers with the CNS boost to the fleet recapitalisation effort of the the maritime industry can be assured of getting navy. It is pertinent to state that the foremost improved and reliable hydrographic data and desire of every littoral state is to have a fleet information from the NN to guide maritime with the right mix of platforms to meet its activities." operational objectives in patrolling the vast According to the FOC, in seafaring, safety littoral space. is key and can mean life. “All the potentials So for the NN, seeking to overwhelm the and prospects man stands to benefit from the criminals in their game, the requirement for sea and by traversing it amounts to nothing enormous capacity upgrade has led to massive without safety. fleet recapitalisation, generous logistic support, Anything that will keep one away from retooled maintenance facilities and equipment danger in an unfriendly environment such as restock, processes recalibration, and manpower the sea is welcome. Therefore, NNS LANA is boost in quality and quantity. one such asset hence our joy at receiving the ship", he added. Construction Commending the leadership of the CNS, he The new vessel was conceived as a replace- said it reflects in his vision to re-energise the ment to the previous NNS LANA, a survey ship NN and motivate its personnel, adding that the that was decommissioned about 10 years ago. command " is grateful for this rare privilege to Notably, the construction of the Offshore receive the brand new NNS LANA. I have no Survey Vessel 190 MKII (NNS LANA) com- doubt that the ship will contribute to safety in menced in December 2019 and the project was the maritime industry as well as to Nigeria’s divided into four major milestones which were: national security". the completion of the deck molds, completion NNS LANA at NNS BEECROFT jetty in Apapa, Lagos of hull blocks, hull assembly on the main deck CO's Report and the delivery and installation of the main capitalisation of the NN Fleet, he also added According to the CNS, "the induction of NNS Also speaking, Commanding Officer (CO) engines at the shipyard. that the ship will play a critical role in protection LANA will enhance the capacity of the service NNS LANA, Captain Abdullateef Mahmud, According to the Director of Information of maritime resources and preservation of law to conduct hydrographic survey and provide who gave report of the sea proceedings said (DINFO), Commodore Suleman Dahun, and order at sea, thus contributing significantly charting service for safe navigation as well as the ship spent 30 days at sea from France to these milestones were the benchmarks which to promotion of global maritime commerce. delivery for maritime security." her voyage to Lagos, Nigeria, amassing 440 determined the level of work achieved at each Noting that the vessel would soon join other hours at sea. stage of the project. The building process was Port Calls NN ships at seas to contribute to the navy's He said: “Based on the average speed of successfully completed and the ship was After the inauguration, the NN's newest efforts in the defence of the nation's maritime 10 knots, the ship covered a total distance of launched on September 24, 2020 at Les Sables Offshore Survey Vessel (NNS LANA) began environment, he added that the federal govern- 4,005 nautical miles and approximately spent d’Olonne, France. her homeward journey to Nigeria. The voyage ment has embraced the blue economy initiative 30 days on the voyage. The ship stopped over included port visits to Lisbon, Las Palmas, Banjul inline with the United Nations Sustainable at four countries which were Portugal, Spain, Handover and Tema-Ghana before it arrived Nigeria on Development Goal-14 agenda. Gambia and Ghana. In preparation for its onward journey home, May 17, 2021. He said: "The agenda entails the sustainable The ship performed satisfactorily well during NNS LANA was handed over to the Nigerian exploration and exploitation of vast resources the voyage except for one oil operation unit Navy in France on January 15, 2021 after the Reception in the nation's maritime environment. The that developed a problem which was rectified provisional acceptance trials was concluded. At its arrival, the navy received the vessel at provision of quality hydrographic services is in Portugal." The crew training however commenced on NNS BEECROFT Jetty and the parade ground key to the development of the various sectors January 2021 and ended on April 12, 2021. respectively. At the reception, the Chief of Na- of the blue economy. Therefore, the acquisition Capabilities They also signed contract for another 35 metre val Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo, of this survey vessel is an affirmation of the NNS LANA (A499) is designed and purposely Offshore Survey Vessel with OCEA. who was the guest of honour, was elated at the federal government of Nigeria's commitment built to enable the NN conduct hydrographic capacity of the vessel. towards the nation's economic development." and oceanographic surveys. It is also capable Flag Transfer After the arrival of the vessel at the jetty, part Gambo further noted that the navy would of conducting geophysical studies, search and In taking delivery of the ship, a Flag Transfer of the activities were the report of sea proceed- collaborate with other maritime stakeholders rescue operations as well as patrol duties. Ceremony was held in France. This represents ings, tour of the ship by dignitaries led by the to actualise the country's vision of developing The ship is equipped with state-of-the-art the transfer of responsibility, authority and CNS and group photograph. a sustainable economy that would contribute modern survey equipment as well as a well- accountability of a vessel from one flag state to the nation's socio-economic prosperity. equipped 7.6m surface vehicle for shallow to another. Revenue Generator water surveys. Speaking at the Flag Transfer Ceremony, For the navy, aside the boost to hydrographic Maintenance Furthermore, the ship has an Automatic the Minister of Defence, Major General Bashir survey, the newly acquired hydrographic vessel, While thanking President Muhammadu Weather Station (AWS), wet and dry laboratories, Magashi (rtd), represented by the Chief of would be a revenue generator. According to Buhari for the enormous support to the navy's scientific and technical workshops as well as the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo the CNS, the vessel would also be deployed recapitalisation effort, the CNS also pledged operating and processing rooms for survey data. stated that the new vessel was conceived as in Nigeria waters and anywhere her services that routine maintenance on the vessel would The machineries include 2 x MTU engines, 3 x a replacement to the previous NNS LANA, a are required inorder to boost hydrographic be sacrosanct. CAT main generators/one emergency generator, survey ship that was decommissioned about efforts within the Nigerian maritime space. "She is a specialised and sophisticated vessel, electric propulsion system and other auxiliaries. 10 years ago. He said: "Where we get patronage from the therefore we have consciously procured both The electric propulsion which is operated at The minister, who was the special guest of Gulf of Guinea and other parties as may be, consumables and other spare parts that would survey speed is particularly installed to minimise honour at the event, added that the occasion we will render services at a cost. So, she is a last the next two to three years while she is in distortion of data due to machinery noise. The marked a great milestone in the fulfilment of revenue generation asset for the country and service. Also, the usual dockyard maintenance ship has a maximum speed of 14 knots and a the dream of not only replacing but, enhancing the Nigeria Navy and other maritime agen- routine will also be observed just like other capacity of 50 crew. Nigerian Navy’s survey capability. Importantly, cies. It's revenue generating in the sense that vessels are also observed in the course of her It would also afford Nigeria with the oppor- the new vessel is expected to fill the void created the Nigerian Hydrographer had been given service," he added. tunity of keying into the General Bathymetric following the decommissioning of the previous approval to produce navigation charts for the Charts of the Oceans (GEBCO) Seabed 2030 NNS LANA. country and the countries in West and Central Asset to Naval Fleet project and the Global Multi-Resolution Topog- Highlighting the import of having a survey Africa. Therefore, people such as maritime Earlier, the Flag Officer Commanding, Western raphy (GMRT) synthesis project which would vessel like NNS LANA, he said that survey stakeholders will now have to pay for such Naval Command, Rear Admiral Jason Gbassa ultimately facilitate Nigeria’s accomplishment services and charting waterways play a crucial charts inorder to procure them for their safe noted that the new acquisition was an asset to of its obligation under SOLAS Convention role in ensuring safe navigation as well as de- navigation." the naval fleet as reliable hydrographic data in accordance with President Muhammadu livery of maritime security. Hence, NNS LANA and information from the NN would further Buhari’s deliberate and sustained policies on will not only enhance the safety of Nigeria’s Capacity for Hydrographic Survey guide maritime activities maritime safety and security. maritime environment but the ship will serve as NNS LANA (A499) was designed and He said: "Putting it in context, NN’s capacity Essentially, it is envisaged that the rebirth a critical component in the projection of naval purposely built to enable the NN conduct to conduct hydrographic survey that would of NNS LANA would afford the Nigerian power for enhanced maritime security in the hydrographic and oceanographic surveys. assure safety of naval and merchant traffic over Navy Hydrographic Department the lever- Gulf of Guinea. It is also capable of conducting geophysical the sea was significantly impaired with the age to successfully and systematically conduct While thanking President Muhammadu studies, search and rescue operations as well absence of a hydrographic ship in NN fleet. With hydrographic surveys and charting of Nigeria’s Buhari for his commitment towards the re- as patrol duties. NNS LANA joining the fleet, going forward, waters. 40 THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜2021 BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE Kuru: Recovery of N5tn Debt Burden, AMP Scheme Pivotal Nume Ekeghe they progress in the Courts. be fair to allow this crop of AMCON is chasing to recover obligors that have collectively Five years after the Asset over N5 trillion from obligors destroyed the commonwealth of Management Corporation of that have remained unwilling Nigerians escape justice, which Nigeria (AMCON) launched to repay their debt. is why AMCON would continue the Asset Management Partners Of this humongous figure, to interact and cross-fertilise (AMPs) scheme, the Managing the government agency had ideas and provide them with Director/CEO of AMCON, Mr. informed Nigerians that only the necessary assistance they Ahmed Kuru has described 350 obligors alone account for would require to excel as the initiative as a major tool N3.6 trillion, which is over 82 recovery agents. in the recovery efforts of the per cent of the outstanding Kuru, who was represented corporation and key to its exposure, which if recovered at the event by Mr. Aliyu Kalgo, success. would be enough for the federal in his keynote address at the Kuru spoke in Lagos, at a 2-day government to actualise a good beginning of the training session training for Asset Management number of projects such as roads, stated that since the inception Partners (AMPs) of AMCON. railways, electricity generation of the AMP scheme, AMCON The AMPs scheme of the and distribution, hospitals, and has made significant milestones government agency currently the like across the country. even though the application of has about 6,000 Eligible Bank The AMCON boss noted in the concept and achievement Assets (EBAs) at different stages a statement that with all the have not mitigated some key of resolution and about 3,000 facts and its negative effect to challenges. He said it is for that matters at various Courts in the economy of Nigeria, the reason that AMCON has and will the country.w AMP concept, which is playing continue to engage with different Through the AMPs, AMCON a pivotal role in the recovery stakeholders especially the AMPs said it is essential each of the exercise must scale up their to ensure that they understand cases are properly captured as efforts because it would not the AMCON Act as amended. Kuru NDIC Seeks FCT’s Support on Failed Banks’ Assets MARKET INDICATORS James Emejo ÓØÌßÔË poor documentation by the banks, Communication and Public revocation of title by authorities Affairs Department, NDIC, MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) The Nigeria Deposit Insurance and litigations over the assets. Bashir Nuhu, the MD explained Corporation (NDIC) has solicited She pointed out that some that the NDIC as a liquidator, JANUARY 2021 the support of the Ministry of the of the assets were located focuses on the assets of closed Money Supply (M3) 38,779,455.43 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in within the FCT and appealed banks following revocation of the realisation of landed properties for the support of the ministry their licence by the Central -- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors 1,039,129.55 of banks in-liquidation within the in realising them, adding that Bank of Nigeria (CBN) while Money Supply (M2) 37,740,325.88 FCT to enable it pay depositors this would assist the corporation AMCON was involved with of such institutions. in the effective discharge of its only Non-Performing Loans -- Quasi Money 21,779,302.69 The Chairman of NDIC Board mandate of deposit guarantee. (NPLs) of existing banks acquired -- Narrow Money (M1) 15,961,023.19 of Directors, Mrs. Ronke Sokefun, This, according to her, ensures by AMCON. Bello, however, made the appeal during a cour- that depositors recover their sav- observed that problems relating ---- Currency Outside Banks 2,364,871.13 tesy visit by the corporation’s ings in the event of bank failure. to landed properties in the FCT board and management to the Also speaking on the issue, were usually not by the ministry ---- Demand Deposits 13,596,152.06 Minister of the FCT, Mallam NDIC’s Managing Director/ but from issues arising from the Net Foreign Assets (NFA) 7,414,275.50 Mohammed Musa Bello in Abuja. Chief Executive, Mr. Bello Has- title of such properties. Sokefun, said the corporation san, elaborated on the roles and He said the ministry was Net Domestic Assets(NDA) 31,365,179.93 had faced some bottlenecks in relationship between the NDIC amenable to assisting the corpora- -- Net Domestic Credit (NDC) 42,916,586.63 the full payment of trapped and the Asset Management Cor- tion in resolving issues around depositors’ funds as a result poration of Nigeria (AMCON) in its properties and those of banks ---- Credit to Government (Net) 12,304,773.44 of difficulty in realising assets the management of banks assets. in-liquidation in the FCT within ---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA 0.00 of banks in-liquidation due to In a statement by Director, the ambit of the law. ---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA) 0.00 Facility Managers Seek Synergy to ---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS) 30,611,813.19 Achieve Environmental Sustainability --Other Assets Net 3,892,112.74 Reserve Money (Base Money 13,264,585.14 As facility managers in the facility managers across the world, improved health and safety in country recently marked adding that it has contributed to the built environment, effective --Currency in Circulation 2,831,167.19 this year’s ‘World Facility different industries during the activation of business continuity --Banks Reserves 10,433,417.96 ˾ÙßÜÍÏ̋ Management Day,’ operators pandemic and even now that and emergency preparedness. --Special Intervention Reserves 317,234.17 have called for synergy among we are gradually winning the “While we will continue to players in the sector towards war against COVID-19. map out our critical path towards achieving an excellent built He states further that IFMA a better operating environment, Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) environment. The event which would continue to map out critical we are also determined to achieve Month March 2018 took place in Lagos, had as its paths towards a better operat- a sustainable and forward- Inter-Bank Call Rate 15.16 theme: “Celebrating FM: Standing ing environment, as members thinking industry through tall beyond the Pandemic.” are determined to achieve a capacity building, knowledge Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Addressing stakeholders at the sustainable and forward-thinking development, research and celebration, the President of the industry through capacity build- development.” Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) 14.00 International Facility Management ing, knowledge development and The President noted that be- Treasury Bill Rate 11.84 Association (IFMA), Nigerian research. tween the last celebration and this Chapter, Mr. Segun Adebayo According to him “For us in year, the body has been able to Savings Deposit Rate 4.07 said the event in line with the IFMA, Nigeria Chapter, we are deepen its advocacy commitment global practice sought to recognise celebrating the day with a strong through its knowledge-sharing 1 Month Deposit Rate 8.82 and celebrate the vital work that sense of commitment towards session series. 3 Months Deposit Rate 9.72 Halogen Group Harps on Security 6 Months Deposit Rate 10.93 12 Months Deposit Rate 10.21

Education in Schools Prime Lending rate 17.35

Nume Ekeghe summit, CEO, Halogen Group, Also speaking, COO, Academy Maximum Lending Rate 31.55 Mr. Wale Olaoye, in a statement Halogen, Dr. Wale Adeagbo, Halogen Group, Nigeria’s made available to THISDAY organiser of the event said: “It is security risk management stated: “Security education essential for our children to have ˾ÙØÏÞËÜãÙÖÓÍãËÞÏ̋ͯͱϱ organisation has called for is key to growing a safer and good knowledge of security and OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT MONDAY, 31 MAY 2021 inclusion of security education in peaceful learning environment safety tips. As parents, guardians, the basic and secondary school in the country. There is no better teachers and carers, we should The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $68.53 a barrel on Monday, curriculum. The company gave time to include security awareness start teaching our children and compared with $68.20 the previous Friday, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. this counsel as it announced plan education and safety knowledge pupils some basic security tips. The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan to host an online summit on school in our school curriculum. “They must learn to speak Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light safety and security in partnership “This is why Halogen is out when they see something (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), with IA- Foundation. The summit partnering IA- Foundation a strange. Children need to develop Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and seeks to address the recurring United Kingdom (UK) registered and practice keen observation of issues of safety as it relates to educational charity set up to their environment by identifying Merey (Venezuela). the education system in Nigeria. transform lives through education strange developments or move- SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna Speaking on the proposed in Nigeria and Africa.” ment around them.” THISDAY ˾ Ͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ 41

   Neimeth to Raise N5bn via Rights Issue, Special Placement Goddy Egene the recapitalisation of the firm. million shares at N2.10 per share. World Health Organization ensure continued compliance The Managing Director/ In a notification to the Nige- According to the company, the (WHO) current standards of with current standards of CEO of Neimeth, Matthew The Board of Directors of Neimeth rian Exchange Limited (NGX) funds would be used to support Good Manufacturing Practice Good Manufacturing Practice Azoji, said the plan was to International Pharmaceuticals yesterday, the company said at the financing of the expansion (WHO cGMP) at Amawbia in (cGMP)” he said. According to make the company become a Plc has resolved that the N5 an emergency meeting held on plan to boost its performance Anambra State. The Chairman Orjiako, with facilities, Neimeth manufacturing hub for medicines billion capital raising approved Monday, the board resolved that and increase value for investors. of Neimeth, Dr. Ambrosie B.C. will be in a position to meet the and centre of excellence for by shareholders last March would about N3.679 billion be raised The plan involves an upgrade Orjiako had told shareholders demands for her key products pharmaceutical development be sourced through rights issue through rights issue of 2.373 of current plant at Oregun, that the plans would help the and introduce new ones. in Africa. He said the Amawbia and special/private placement. billion shares of 50 kobo each Lagos to take up new products company achieve a quantum leap He said the two plants are plant will be a multi-products Shareholders had at the 62nd at N1.55 per share in the ratio of while increasing manufacturing to become a leading healthcare critical to the attainment of the plant and will be presented to annual general meeting (AGM) five for every four shares already capacity for existing products conglomerate in Africa. company’s five year Strategic the World Health Organisation approved and authorised the held. The board resolved that and the construction of a new “Our plan is to significantly plan and new corporate vision (WHO) for certification under board to work out the best N1.320 billion be raised through a multi-product facility that will upgrade the Oregun factory “to be the leading innovative her current standards of Good options to raise N5 billion for special/private placing of 628.753 be tailored to comply with the and enhance its output and healthcare provider out of Africa.” Manufacturing Practice (cGMP). PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED AS OF 01/06/2021

MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED PRICE TRADED ( N ) PRICE TRADED ( N ) 42 WEDNESDAY, ͺ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY NEWS Elumelu Unveils New Insurance Companies, Pledges to Deepen Penetration Sanwo-Olu calls for private sector investments Obinna Chima our policymakers, regulators Domestic Product (GDP) employed and the private penetration in the country. and reliable, simplifying and public sector leaders is insignificant. We need sector are the ones that can With the capitalisation of our customers’ lives. Our The doors of Heirs Insurance begin to understand that to work with the regulator create opportunities for our these companies (Heirs Life mission is simple: make Limited and Heirs Life for us to eradicate poverty, and other stakeholders to businesses and they are the and Heirs Insurance), I have insurance accessible. Assurance Limited were both the private and public make sure that insurance- ones that can grow the GDP. no doubt that the Nigerian “Our goal is to transform yesterday officially opened sector must work together." to-GDP improves. In most “Heirs Insurance and Heirs insurance market is poised customer service: cutting for business in Lagos. The According to him, by other economies, insurance Life are bringing freshness to write big ticket risks. waiting time in claims ceremony also saw the approving the licences for companies own banks. and new beginning to the “We want to minimise processing and purchase unveiling of the Heirs both companies, the regulator “Finally, I want to say sector and they have said outflows and conserve to bare minutes — across Towers, a new edifice by has helped to create more that we are coming with to us that they are going to foreign exchange for all touchpoints, including Heirs Holdings. jobs in the country and a strong track record, not be simple, they are going national development. Let mobile devices. At Heirs The event had in improve the country’s tax just on governance, but to use technology to drive me quickly state that the Insurance, we want to attendance, the Governor revenue. on business success and insurance and that it is going commission expects that the give our customers what of Lagos State, Mr. He stated that over the business turn around and to be affordable. affairs of these companies they have so often lacked Babajide Sanwo-Olu; the years, Nigerians have been most importantly, wealth “I am convinced that Heirs would be conducted in – high quality insurance, at Commissioner for Insurance, yearning for insurance creation for all. We believe Life and Heirs Insurance consonance with extant an affordable price – and Mr. Sunday Thomas; companies that will offer that prosperity should be would certainly change insurance sector corporate with an insurer that is on Chairman of Heirs Holdings excellence and superior democratised; success for us the insurance landscape. governance guidelines and their side.” and Founder of the Tony services, which would be will not only be felt by the With the array of men on other directives. On his part, the MD/CEO, Elumelu Foundation, Mr. digitally-driven. shareholders, but would be the board and management “The independence of the Heirs Life, Niyi Onifade, Tony Elumelu; bank chief He added: “These are felt by everybody, including team, it is clear to me that board and its committees, said: “Our goal is to integrate executives as well as other what Heirs Insurance and our communities as we strive you will bring your wealth including ensuring adequate life insurance products into business executives. Heirs Life Assurance would to eradicate poverty.” of experience to drive this disclosures and transparency people’s daily lives to create In his opening remarks, bring to our people. I want On his part, Sanwo-Olu, company and take this sector are required of these financial inclusion and bring Elumelu who is the Chairman to say to you (Thomas) as who commended Elumelu, to greater heights.” companies. Let me state quality financial services to of Heirs Insurance, thanked our regulator, we have a said coming out of the Thomas also commended here that the commission the many, not just the few. the National Insurance track record of governance, pandemic, there was need Elumelu over his decision to is now more determined “This way, we empower Commission (NAICOM) for best tradition of compliance for increased collaboration play in the insurance sector to ensure professionalism people to live more granting operating licences and making sure that you with the private sector. as well as his decision to and high ethical standards confidently and achieve their to both organisations. (Thomas) looking back even He said: “We need to contribute to building the to protect the integrity of the dreams, whilst securing the He pledged to deepen when you retired, you will be encourage the private insurance sector. Nigerian insurance industry,” future of their loved ones. insurance penetration in the very proud that you signed sector because they are “The timing of this launch Thomas added. Heirs is all about giving our country as well as change off these licences for these the real engines of growth; could not have been more In her contribution, the clients financial security. As the insurance landscape. two companies. we need to acknowledge auspicious in view of the Acting MD/CEO, Heirs people build wealth, we want He said: "Let me say that “To the general public, we that no matter how well fact that NAICOM has Insurance, Dr. Adaobi them to know that they have the journey that started believe that our economy the government does, we been rolling out various Nwakuche, said: “We are a partner in Heirs Life, seven years ago has finally is the biggest in Africa, certainly cannot employ developmental initiatives delivering insurance that is providing financial support materialised. It is good when yet insurance-to-Gross everybody that needs to be aimed at deepening insurance easy to understand, quick throughout their life.” FG Sets 10,000MW Target, to Close Metering Gap in Two Years Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja president understands that to end users.” delivered to the Distribution there has never been any infrastructure, lamenting billing people arbitrarily is According to him, the Companies (Discos) and policy in the past that linked that for instance, the whole The federal government one of the main challenges Buhari administration about 400,000 plus have quality of service to tariff. TCN budget in 2014 was yesterday unveiled plans of the sector, and he has is currently focusing on already been installed,” On why the federal $30 million, resulting in a to boost electricity supply mandated the transitioning the transmission and he stated. government was unbundling huge mismatch. by wheeling a minimum to the National Mass distribution parts of the Zakari said the the Transmission Company Under the Transmission of 10,000 megawatts of Metering Programme value chain to be able to geolocation of beneficiaries of Nigeria (TCN) before Rehabilitation Expansion electricity into homes, (NMMP), which is now get the electricity being was being tracked and gave concession, Zakari stated Programme (TREP), he while setting May 2023 fully funded. generated into the homes the assurance that energy that the extant law said the World Bank as target to close the six He said: “On 100,000MW, of Nigerians. theft would be significantly empowers the president would assist with about million metering gap in the we do have a trajectory, He stated that the reduced when the metering to break it down before $1.6 billion, adding that power sector. but we will definitely not government was also covers a large number of privatisation. the country recently signed Special Adviser to be there in 18-24 months. ramping up the delivery customers. He said the first step $500 million for distribution President Muhammadu But we have continued to and installation of meters He stated that the recently was to unbundle and expansion. Buhari on Infrastructure, have an imbalance between nationwide. launched service-based tariff then go to the next phase In addition, the Central Mr. Ahmad Zakari, while generation and in some "The estimated six million will be focused on customers of commercialisation Bank of Nigeria (CBN) featuring on The Morning estimates, we have the line meters gap in the country paying for what they get, or whichever route the has earmarked about $500 Show, the flagship breakfast of sight at about 20,000MW. will be eliminated by the noting that the conversation government decides to take. million as emergency fund programme on ARISE “The administration is end of the life of this needed to change from tariff According to him, while for the sector while the NEWS CHANNEL, the also looking at this power administration. We are in increase for the sake of it, Nigerians are right to be Siemens initiative will see broadcast arm of THISDAY approach, not only in phase 0, which the central to the provision of service frustrated with the power the expenditure of upwards Newspapers, said the megawatts but on its impact bank has provided funding to consumers. sector because of lost of $2 billion over time. government in collaboration on people. We are working for. Zakari reiterated that opportunities, activities Zakari said six Discos with its development to ensure that energy access “Thus far, that phase 0 there will be a refund to are now being undertaken would align their activities partners would commit is improved. But we think is about a million meters. customers and “de-banding” to revamp the sector. with funds available, adding between $3 billion and $5 we have a clear line of sight Phase 1 will be 4 million of any areas that do not He stated that the that metering has been billion to the power sector of 10,000 MW during the meters. We have mopped receive commensurate government is transitioning improving liquidity since in the next 24 months. life of this administration up all the available meters. supply of electricity with from subsidising the the new regime of tariffs Zakari added that the in terms of delivered power About 600,000 have been the tariff band, adding that sector to building critical took off last year. FEDERALISM, LG AUTONOMY, TOP DEMANDS AT CONSTITUTION REVIEW HEARINGS He said: “One of the is another food for thought. to control the police in their urged the National Assembly the audience, leading to further agitations controversial issues, which So, please don’t hold back, states to enhance quick and to grant the demands of Governor, Hon. Simon that are growing and in I feel strongly about is the speak your mind on how rapid response to crisis and people seeking creation of Lalong, had urged Nigerians some way threatening peace, immunity clause. When you you want this country to crime. additional states. to be bold, sincere and security and unity of the are immune, nobody can take move on.” They decried the Plateau State Attorney- patriotic in their submissions country. you to court as a leader and Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa situation where a state General and Commissioner to the constitution review “I therefore appeal to it means that you can do Demand Devolution of police command has to for Justice, Chrisantus panel in their quest for a members of this special whatever you want to do. Power, Single Tenure for get clearance from Abuja Ahmedu, and his greater nation. committee and Nigerians You can claim to be God. Presidents. to respond to crisis in its counterpart, Lalong stated that presenting memoranda at “But when that immunity Meanwhile, Plateau, Benue, domain. Abdulkareem Kana, who the much-talked about this public hearing to see this is removed and you are made and Nasarawa states have Presenting their toed the same line with restructuring will be exercise as a very important to live in a society where unanimously demanded memoranda at the North- Ugba on most of their considered to ensure that the duty which presents another people are taken to court devolution of power in a central zonal public hearing demands, added that the agitations and anxieties being opportunity for us to build a for abuse of office, I think manner that the states will in Jos, the three states also three tiers of government expressed are addressed. Nigeria that we desire to see. our leaders here will wake be given more powers and advocated a single tenure of could be reduced to two; According to him, there We should take advantage up. Let us see how to tinker finance considering their five years for the president. comprising only the federal are high expectations that of the platform to ventilate with that immunity clause. enormous responsibilities. Presenting the position of and state governments, such this particular exercise will and make submissions as “Will it be better to give They also requested that , representative that states are given the not go the way of previous to what we want injected immunity to a few people the state governors, as the of the governor, and Speaker resources to cater for the ones which failed to address or removed from the 1999 or remove the immunity so chief security officers of their of the Benue State House of local governments. some key issues affecting the Constitution to make it more that all of us will be equal? It states, be given the powers Assembly, Hon. Titus Ugba, Earlier, while addressing governance of the nation, people -centred,” he said. WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 ˾THISDAY 43 NEWSXTRA Bandits Kill Police Inspector, Three Civilians in Fresh Onslaught on Katsina Village Francis Sardauna in Katsina operatives, who arrived the police patrol Hilux. A day before a statement issued yesterday, said shot and killed by the hoodlums set ablaze by the hoodlums. Police village in their patrol vehicles, were yesterday, they carted away with the bandits had a fierce gun battle while five others sustained injuries. reinforcement was deployed to A Police Inspector and three ambushed by the mercenaries. 25 cattle some metres away from with the mobile policemen deployed The team succeeded and gunned the area and injured persons were civilians were on Monday evening It was learnt that in the cause of the same village”. to the village. down three of the armed bandits. given first aid and moved to the killed in a gun battle with a group exchanging fire, the police officer The Spokesman of the State Isah, a superintendent of police, “One Inspector of police gallantly general hospital. Investigation is of gunmen suspected to be bandits was killed along with three bandits. Police Command, Gambo Isah, said: “At the scene, it was discovered lost his life during the encounter. in progress with a view to track who launched fresh onslaught The Executive Director of while confirming the incident in that three residents (all Male ) were An uncompleted clinic block was down the fleeing hoodlums.” on Zandam village in Jibia Local Zandam Area Development Government Area of . Association (ZADA), Ambassandor The incident occurred at about Gidado Suleiman, who confirmed 6pm when the suspected bandits the incident to THISDAY, said the invaded the village and ambushed bandits also injured six persons and Mobile Police personnel who were set ablaze a police patrol vehicle. deployed to the area immediately He said: “The bandits killed three after receiving a distress call on civilians and one Police Inspector. the invasion of the village by the They injured six people who are hoodlums. currently receiving treatment. They THISDAY gathered that the also burnt our Maternal and Child combined team of security Clinic under construction and NECO Boss Died after Brief Illness, Say Examination Body, Police Ikpeazu mourns the late registrar Laleye Dipo in Minna and State Command Public Relations WITH DEVELOPMENT PARTNERS… Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Officer, DSP Wasiu Abiodun L-R: Osun State Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Bola Oyebamiji; Managing Director/CEO, Keystone Bank Limited, Mr. Olaniran Olayinka; Umuahia issued the statement by the Osun State Governor, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola; Divisional Head, West, Keystone Bank , Mr. Ademola Adeyemo; and Technical Adviser to police. MD/CEO, Keystone Bank, Mr. Isaac Ikeme, during a courtesy visit by the bank officials to the governor of Osun State in Osogbo…yesterday The Police and the National “The attention of Examination Council (NECO) Police Command has been drawn Headquarters in Minna Niger to a publication circulating in State have attributed the death of some section of social media and Kidnappers Demand N110m for Release of 156 the Registrar and Chief Executive national dailies (Not THISDAY) Officer of the NECO, Professor that NECO Registrar, Prof. Abducted Tegina School Pupils Godswill Obioma to a brief Godswill Obioma was murdered Laleye Dipo in Minna release of the abductees source that some public-spirited Sani Bello, Mary Noel Berje quoted illness. by unknown gunmen in Minna. Alhassan, who disclosed this to people within the community the state Deputy Governor, Alhaji This is coming as the Abia This story is totally false, Bandits who abducted pupils of THISDAY yesterday in a telephone have started raising money for Ahmed Mohammed Ketso as also State governor, Dr. Okezie untrue and a pure piece of the Salihu Tanko Islamiyya School interview, said the bandits said 156 the bandits. saying that Ikpeazu has expressed profound fake news in Tegina town in the Rafi Local pupils were being held by them. Meanwhile, the Niger State “Government is on the pursuit sadness over the death of “It is important to state Government Area of Niger State According to him, the kidnappers Government has said that it had set of the bandits and efforts are being Obioma, describing it as “yet categorically that on May 31, last Sunday have made contact threatened that if they did not pay the necessary machinery in motion to put in place to identify them.” another blow to the people of 2021 the family of the Registrar/ with management of the institution. the ransom by the end of today ensure the safe release of the school According to the statement “the Abia State”. CEO, National Examinations The bandits were said to have (Wednesday) they would kill all children. number of the kidnapped school Obioma, who hailed from Council (NECO), Prof. Godswill contacted the School Headmaster, the children. It, however, ruled out the payment children is not fully ascertained; Nkpa in Bende LGA of Abia Obioma formally announced Alhaji Abubakar Alhassan at about Alhassan said the message had of ransom to the kidnappers. however, efforts by security agencies State, died barely a year after that he passed to eternal glory 4 pm yesterday, asking him to pay been passed on to the government. A statement by the Chief Press to secure their release have been he was appointed the Registrar after a brief illness at National N110million as ransom for the THISDAY learnt from another Secretary to Governor Abubakar intensified” of NECO. Hospital, Abuja. In separated statements issued “Members of the public are yesterday, the examination body hereby urged to disregard the Buhari Seeks Senate’s Confirmation of Yahaya as Chief of Army Staff and the police claimed the family fake news and news reporters corroborated their positions that are advised to always verify Upper chamber wants FG to immortalise Attahiru Obioma died after a brief illness. their report before publication NECO’s statement on the to avoid creating unnecessary Deji Elumoye in Abuja Ibrahim Attahiru, who died in an Senate, the appointment of Maj. Thursday named Farouk as the issue was signed by its Head of panic and fear in public air crash in Kaduna last month Gen. Farouk Yahaya as the Chief new COAS after the death of Information and Public Relations, domain” the police statement President Muhammadu Buhari has while on official assignment. of Army Staff of the Armed Forces former Army Mr Azeez Sani, while the Niger reads. written to the Senate seeking its The President, in the request letter of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Chief, Lt.Gen Attahiru, who confirmation of the appointment dated May 27, 2021 addressed to the “His CV is herewith attached. died in an air crash in Kaduna of Major General Yahaya Farouk President of the Senate, Dr. Ahmad It is my hope that the Senate will on Friday, May 21, 2021. Bandits Abduct 72 Persons as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS). Lawan and read at yesterday’s plenary, consider and confirm the nominee Also yesterday, the Senate called This is coming just as the implored the upper legislative in the usual expeditious manner. on the federal Government to in Kaduna Community upper legislative chamber chamber to give his request the “Please accept Distinguish immortalise Attahiru by naming urged the federal government to usual expeditious approval. Senate President, the assurances a military structure in his honour Release 18 after payment of N8m ransom immortalise the immediate past The letter read in part: “I hereby of my highest consideration.” so that an appreciative nation will Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General forward for confirmation by the President Buhari had last live to remember its heroes. John Shiklam in Kaduna rural communities across the state, adding that residents of The Southern Kaduna Peoples rural communities cannot go Plateau Sacks 532 Workers over Forgery Union (SOKAPU) has said to farm for fear of being killed that N8million was paid for or abducted. Seriki Adinoyi in Jos Secretaries, held at the National Government payroll after an and made to face appropriate the release of 18 out of the 72 The statement accused the Institute for Policy and Strategic investigation using the Bank sanctions. This exercise will be a people abducted by bandits in government The Plateau State Government Studies(NIPSS), Kuru near Jos, Verification Number (BVN) continuous one,” he said. Libere community, Kallah ward, of alleged silence over has sacked 532 workers over Governor Simon Lalong, who system, revealed inconsistencies He said the retreat was Kajuru Local Government Area the abduction of the 72 falsified documents following disclosed this further stated that in their records. organised to build the capacity of Kaduna State. villagers. findings of investigation of a the huge manpower gaps that “Some had falsified their ages of Permanent Secretaries, Spokesman of the group, Mr. “It is sad that such huge committee, on the verification existed in the Plateau State Civil or tampered with their records. because they occupied a Luka Binniyat who disclosed this number of citizens would be and audit of staff strength. Service would be addressed at Others could not appear to unique and critical role in in a statement issued yesterday forcefully taken from their Speaking yesterday at the end of committee’s assignment. answer queries on such records. administration, and to ensure in Kaduna, said bandits had on homes and not even a mere closing ceremony of Policy “Already, about 532 names “We shall ensure that all of their diligence as leaders of the April 22, invaded the community acknowledgement of their plight Retreat for the state Permanent have been removed from them are properly investigated workforce. and abducted the 72 people. from a government which cardinal He also condemned the killing responsibility is to protect them”, of four people by bandits on Binniyat said. Oyetola, Umahi, Tinubu, First Bank, Access Bank, Others Honoured Monday in Goska community, According to him, “As at Jama’a LGA, Kaduna State. yesterday (Monday) N8 million The Governors of Osun and Development. the Innoson Group, Dr. Innocent Newspaper’s Most Outstanding According to him, 34 of the was paid to the kidnappers and Ebonyi States, Mr. Adegboyega In addition, the National Chukwuma, won the Innovative Lawmaker of the Year 2020 and victims were still being held by they released 18 persons. Oyetola and Mr. Dave Umahi Leaders of All Progressives Manufacturer of the Decade. the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye the bandits while about 20 others “As at now, information emerged winners at the Champion Congress (APC), Senator Similarly, the Governor Enitan Ogunwusi, won the Grand had escaped from captivity. reaching us indicates that about Newspapers 2020 Award. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, won of Enugu State, Mr. Ifeanyi Peacemaker of the Year. He said a ransom of N8 20 of the hostages had escaped Oyetola won double award the Democracy Icon of the Ugwuanyi, was awarded the Most On corporate award category, the million was paid to the bandits at different times. as Champion Newspapers Man Fourth Republic; the Minister Outstanding Security Conscious Managing Director /CEO of First on Monday before 18 of the “This means that the kidnappers of the Year and Governor of the of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi and Peaceful Governor; Hon. Sir Bank PLC, Dr. Adesola Adetuntan, victims were released. are still holding 34 hostages. They Year while Umahi emerged as Amaechi, emerged the Most Dr. Jude Chukwuemeka Idimogu, emerged the Banker of the Year The statement said people are demanding for N10 million Champion Newspaper Man Outstanding Public Servant of member Lagos State House of 2020 while the Access Bank PLC were being abducted in many before their release.” of the Year on Infrastructural the Year while the Chairman of Assembly emerged the Champion was the Bank of the Year 2020. 44 WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 ˾THISDAY NEWSXTRA Akwa Ibom, Rivers Demand 100% Resource Control by States Okon Bassey in Uyo the “Zonal Public Hearing” government, wants the favourably with other states “The entire Chapter 2 of also called for Judicial on the review of the 1999 National Assembly, to adopt of the federation. the Constitution, is actually Autonomy, insisting, State The governors of Akwa-Ibom Constitution in Uyo, Akwa- the 1999 Constitution which “The constitution should be the heart and soul of the judges should be appointed by and Rivers states, Udom Ibom State. gives the states, 100 per cent amended to allow for states 1999 Constitution, but state governors, as against their Emmanuel and Nyesom Wike, The Attorneys-General control of their resources”, to control their resources; you sadly, it’s not justiciable. appointment by the National have demanded a return to of Akwa-Ibom State, Mr. he stated. can’t be mining our resources Section 6 paragraph c, says Judicial Council, NJC. the 1963 Constitution and the Uwemedimo Nwoko, in Head of Service, Rivers and giving us only 13 per cent none of these principles, Rivers and Akwa Ibom states removal of resource control his presentation on behalf of State Government, Mr. derivation. It is not acceptable. can be challenged in court, also backed State Policing, from the Exclusive List of the the state government, called Rufus Godwin, had in his It is wrong,” argued. so this is no constitution demanding its inclusion in 1999 Constitution, to allow the for the adoption of the 1963 submission, on behalf of Godwin, also insisted on at all”, he submitted. a new Constitution. 36 states of Nigeria to control Constitution, to allow states Wike, kicked against 13 per the justifiability Chapter 2 He also condemned the “We want State Police, their resources and pay tax of the federation, mind their cent derivation for states. of the 1999 Constitution, appointment of the bulk which will be funded by state to the federal government. resources and pay a royalty He insisted that states which he opined, was the security chiefs, from one governments and controlled The states separately made to the federal government. should be allowed to control most important part of the side of the country. by the state government,” the demand yesterday at “The their resources and compete 1999 Constitution. The government, Godwin added. Secondus Urges EU to Sanction Institutions FG Extends Commencement of New Undermining Nigeria’s Democracy Passport Regime by One Week Chuks Okocha in Abuja statement from his media office He said that the PDP won the Michael Olugbode in Abuja suspension was to allow for out short message notifications signed by Mr. Ike Abonyi, made 2019 presidential election but was clearance of the backlog of all for collection to all applicants,” The National Chairman of the the call while receiving the EU denied the victory because of the The Comptroller-General, Nigeria passport applications received Okpu added. opposition Peoples Democratic team of Evaluators led by Prof. blatant violation of electoral rules Immigration Service (NIS), Mr. before May 17, as all backlogs were The Immigration boss further Party (PDP), Prince Uche Secondus, Adele Juniad and Prof. Victor and the militarisation of election Muhammad Babandede, has expected to be cleared by May 31. directed that details of all Passports yesterday charged the European Adetula in his office. venues. extended the commencement of “Babandede wishes to inform that were yet to be collected be Union (EU) to review its support The PDP national chairman, Secondus mentioned in particular the new Passport regime earlier the public, especially Passport uploaded on the service website and partnership programmes with who lamented what he called the the brazen electoral fraud in Osun scheduled for June 1 by one week. applicants that the Service had www.immigration.gov.ng for the Nigeria with a view to strengthening reluctance of the government to and Kano states governorship The spokesperson for the made significant progress in the attention of the public. the operations of democracy in the allow for electoral reforms, however, elections where military agency, Mr. Amos Okpu, made clearance exercise of the backlog “The extension is to clear country. added, “APC administration has operatives were used to this known in a statement in of Passport applications. up all backlog of Passport The PDP chairman, who urged destroyed the democracy we built thwart the will of the people Abuja yesterday. “So far, a total number of 230,500 applications across Issuing the EU to consider reviewing for 16 years in six years.” as clearly expressed at the The service had announced applications have been cleared Centres. its sanction policies against He added, “If European Union polls. the suspension of receiving and and the Passports produced. “A huge number of applicants governments and democratic has put in about 100million “I urge you, EU officials to processing of all fresh passport Out of the number, a total of are already turning up to collect institutions that are not playing Euro supporting democratic sit down with the INEC and applications nationwide until June 1. 43,350 are yet to be collected. their Passports across Issuing by the rules, said “you must find institutions in Nigeria like the insist that the right things are The News Agency of Nigeria “Passport Control Officers have Centres and this is causing some a way to sanction INEC or any Independent National Electoral done and to also put necessary (NAN) also reported that the been directed to continue to send forms of congestion. agency that receives from you Commission (INEC), it should pressure for the passage and but not playing by the rules.” ensure that they play by the signing of amended Electoral Secondus, according to a rules.” Act,” Secondus said. Era of Looting At NSITF over, Says Ngige Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja said the era of spending NSITF procurements are done as money without adhering to contained in Procurement Act The Minister of Labour and approved financial regulations 2007 and Financial Regulation Employment, Senator Chris is over. and the extant federal government Ngige, has stated that the He said: “It is important for circulars. federal government will not me to draw the attention of the He told them that their allow finances of the Nigeria new management to the financial performance would be measured Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) hemorrhage the NSITF has passed quarterly and annually, adding: to be mismanaged again through in the last few years and ‘’Our measure as supervising President Muhammadu Buhari the imperative of a new direction ministry is tied to your had relieved the Managing as contained in the directive of performance in terms of realisation Director of the NSITF, Bayo the president. of your mandate and vision. Somefun; three executive directors “The NSITF must be revitalised “I congratulate you all especially and nine other top management and repositioned to fulfill its those who held the ship in the staff members of NSITF of their mandate in accordance with past 11months, which was a trying duties in what seemed to be a the establishing Act.” period even as you recorded punitive measure to deal with Ngige cautioned that the new an increase of about N7 billion persons indicted of committing management should not indulge in your contributions when financial infractions in the in the sins of the past, and must compared to same time last year.” organisation. adhere to the statutory conditions The minister, therefore, said While inaugurating members of service and remunerations as the tenure of the members of of the new NSITF board at the enshrined in the NSITF Act. the executive management was Banquet Hall of the Presidential The minister advised the four years in the first instance Villa in Abuja yesterday, Ngige new board to ensure that and was renewable.

Ayade’s Vision Motivated My Defection to APC, Says Ita-Giwa Sunday Okobi with the governor to the APC. “At 75, nothing will please She added that it was me more than to relax and Former Presidential Adviser incumbent on her part to do all enjoy my celebrity status, on National Assembly Matters in her power to ameliorate the attend events in eye-popping and the leader of the Bakassi hardship her people are going outfits and so on, but when people, Senator Florence Ita-Giwa, through, saying: “In doing this, a digital-driven governor like yesterday gave reasons why she I don’t mind being occasionally Ayade comes along with such defected to the All Progressives misunderstood by people who verve and vision that will lift Congress (APC) with the Cross do not feel the pinch.” my people and the state out River Governor, Prof. Benjamin The former senator stated of perennial poverty, I am left Ayade, recently. that she would not hesitate with no other option than to In her response to inquiry on to do all she can to promote support him. her defection to the APC as well the state and its industrial “ has had as accepting the ambassadorial revolution, “which was why to bear the brunt of many position given her by the governor, she accepted to be the Cross economic setbacks; the loss Ita-Giwa stated that the vision that River State Ambassador for of our oil fields, then more would lift her people and state Industrial Projects, even at the poignantly to me personally out of perennial poverty were all risk of being mocked by less was the ceding of Bakassi to she needed to support and defect discerning pundits.” Cameroon. WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 ˾THISDAY 45 24 HOURS... 24 HOURS... Military Personnel Kill German-based Nigerian in Imo Amby Uneze in Owerri A soldier had earlier shot and Home Away Palace by Ukaigwe Nwaneri, 24, was shot dead by enroute Lagos. his family. killed a businessman, Mr. Noel Hospital, Akwakuma junction, soldiers, who were guarding the According to sources, a Though the reasons for shooting Security operatives deployed Chigbu, at the Amakohia flyover Owerri. government house when she combined team of security him were unknown, THISDAY to maintain peace in Imo State in Owerri. Noel’s wife was four months’ and her friends were driving operatives who were on stop-and gathered that that that apart from yesterday continued their alleged Noel was shot dead on the day pregnant, while his son turned through the area. -search operation at a military Nwaneri and Noel, several other killing of innocent people as a he took delivery of his new Camry two years a day after he was THISDAY gathered that check point stopped him and his innocent youths had allegedly German-based citizen of the state car and was driving home at the killed by soldiers. in yesterday’s incident, a family, and also ordered them to been shot in the same style by was shot and killed by a soldier close of work. He also had a four-year-old soldier shot and killed a step out of the vehicle. soldiers and policemen deployed at a military checkpoint in Owerri, The state police command was daughter. German-based Nigerian, Mr. It was gathered that after to the state. the state capital. said to have told the family of Five days before he was killed, Oguchi Unachukwu who hails identifying himself, there was Meanwhile, when contacted, the Soldiers and policemen the deceased that the soldiers said soldiers had also killed a 100-level from Umuomumu Mbieri, in a heated argument between Army Public Relations Officer, 34 deployed to the South-east and that they shot him because he student of the Imo State University Mbaitoli LGA of Imo State, the deceased and the security Artillery Brigade, Obinze Imo State Imo State in particular have been violated their checkpoint rule. (IMSU), Miss. Divine Nwaneri, while he was on his way to operatives, before one of the Lieutenant Babatunde Zubairu accused of killing innocent youths Noel was the owner of in front of the state Government the Sam Mbakwe Airport to soldiers shot and killed said he was yet to get any brief without provocation. Shawarma Zone in front of the House, Owerri. board a flight back to Germany him in the presence of on the incident. Niger East Senator Kano APC Splits into Factions Condemns Attack on Tegina Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano addressing a news conference was born out of effort to suspension, insisting that what in Kano yesterday, said the ensure that Ganduje does they did was null and void. The Senator representing the good people of Tegina A staunch supporter of meeting for the splitting of the not impose candidates on He said one could not be Niger East senatorial district, by bandits. With utmost President Muhammadu party commenced on May 31. the people of the state in 2023. suspended or sacked from Mohammed Sani Musa, has concern, I strongly condemn Buhari in , Alhaji According to him, “The “We are creating APC a party without giving fair condemned the attack by these attacks and reaffirm Abdulmajid Kwamanda, has actions of the state governor Akida, and we have the hearing and or even contacting bandits on Tegina in Rafi the solidarity of my office created a faction of the All and the party caretaker backing and support of the him to hear his own version Local Government Area of with the people and Rafi Progressives Congress (APC), chairman for vehemently Kano people 100 percent. Even of the story. the state last Sunday. LGA over these gruesome Akida, splitting the party into blocking some party loyalists President Buhari cannot stop “I think those who said they He described the attack attacks. two factions in the state. who wish to contest the state us from splitting the party suspended me are doing a that has reportedly led to “My heart goes out to the Kwamanda, who has gubernatorial seat has clearly for now. hatchet job, but they have since the death of an internally victims and all those affected been championing Buhari’s negated the principles of “The new faction, APC failed because right now, as displaced person (IDP) and by this horrific attack in our ideologies since 2003 when he democratic norms and internal Akida, would resist any you can see, we have split the the abduction of children senatorial district. I stand contested for the presidency politicking. attempt by Ganduje and the party with the emergence of from Islammiya, as callous with the people of Tegina on the platform of the defunct “We have already designed caretaker chairman of the APC our Akida faction, so we will and unfortunate. at this tragic and difficult All Peoples Party (APP), said our movements and how we to impose their candidates see who is who,” he stated. Commiserating with the time.” the state Governor, Abdullahi are going to ensure that our on the people of the state in On whether Buhari will not victims of the attack, he Musa also reiterated Ganduje, and the APC state new APC Akida makes it to 2023,” he said. be happy with the splitting noted that the enemies of the call for the federal caretaker Chairman, Abdullahi the Government House in The APC chieftain, who was of the APC in the state, peace in the area would soon government to strengthen Abbas, should be held 2023.” said to be suspended from Kwamanda said: “Buhari be brought to book. security in Niger State, responsible for the crack in He said the decision to split the party in Kano municipal does not control my political He said: “I received particularly in areas where the party. the party into two, ‘one for wards of Kofar Wambai for ideologies and he knows that credible information of the bandits have been terrorising Kwamanda, who disclosed principled politicians and the alleged anti-party activities, whatever I’m doing is the gruesome daylight attack on undisturbed. the situation in the party while other for hungry politicians’, denied knowledge of the right thing.” 46 WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 ˾THISDAY 24 HOURS... 24 HOURS... NDLEA Foils Attempt to Move Illicit Drugs to Belgium, Turkey

Michael Olugbode in Abuja Nnamdi Azikiwe International a 23-year-old secondary school Belgium respectively. methamphetamine was discovered an automobile company, where Airport, Abuja, to Turkey and leaver, Iwuyi Chukwuka, and He said Mkwo, 37, was arrested to be stuffed in the lining of a he earned €1,700 per month. Operatives of the National Belgium. a Europe-based Nigerian, Peter on May 28, 2021, while trying to false bottom of his luggage. “Mkwo said he traveled to Drug Law Enforcement A statement issued by the Mkwo, while attempting to export board an Ethiopian Airline 910 The agency spokesman Nigeria on April 26 for the Agency (NDLEA) have foiled spokesman of NDLEA, Femi nine kilogrammes of skunk and enroute Abuja-Addis Ababa- said during interrogation, burial of his father who died attempts to export skunk and Babafemi, said operatives of methamphetamine through the Brussels, Belgium. Mkwo claimed he has lived in August 2019 but buried on methamphetamine through the the agency were able to arrest Nnamdi Azikiwe International He disclosed that when he was in Belgium for 15 years and April 30 in Awka, Anambra Airport, Abuja, to Turkey and searched, three kilogrammes of worked as a forklift driver in State. FG to Celebrate Buhari’s Achievements on Social Media Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja the achievements, the documentary will be aired in three parts and will The federal government has run for several months. stated its plans to celebrate the The minister said the second and final term of the documentary, which would be President Muhammadu Buhari updated from time to time until administration by flooding the the end of this administration, social media and airwaves “with covers roads, rail, housing, power, unmistakable video evidence of aviation, agriculture, ports, bridges, its various achievements.” health, fight against COVID-19, The Minister of Information and water resources and the economy Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, generally. disclosed this yesterday while He listed some of the projects addressing journalists. undertaken by the administration He said ahead of the anniversary, since it started its second term of four the government has inaugurated years to include the Lagos-Ibadan an all-encompassing and an expressway, Apapa-Oworonsoki FIFTY- FIVE HEARTY CHEERS... unprecedented documentary on expressway, Enugu-Port Harcourt Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Mr. Sunday Dare (right), during his interaction with youths to mark his 55th birthday in the projects and programmes of road dualisation, Abuja-Abaji-Lokoja Ogbomoso...recently the administration. road dualisation, Abuja-Kaduna- Mohammed said the documentary, Zaria expressway, Kano-Maiduguri which is ready, would be aired on expressway dualisation, Suleja- Hydro-power Projects Can Solve National Energy the television sets and internet Minna highway, Milliken Hill devices via Whatsapp, Facebook, Ngwo and Bonny-Bodo-Road, Challenge, Says UNIDO Instagram among others, adding Second Niger Bridge and Loko- The United Nations Industrial He stated this at a capacity- flagged off by the state Governor, hydropower, solar, biomass and that because of the sheer enormity of Oweto Bridge. Development Organisation building workshop on small Ben Ayade, at the occasion. wind. (UNIDO) Regional Director and hydropower development for Bakole identified energy as “Among the renewable energy representative to the Economic renewable energy development a critical input for economic resources, Small Hydropower (SHP) Moghalu: Why I Want to Community of West African and financial institutions in Nigeria growth and sustainable industrial holds great potential towards States (ECOWAS), UNIDO held at the Transcorp Hotel, Calabar, development of any country, and increasing access to electricity and Run for President in 2023 regional hub, Nigeria, Jean. B Cross River State. expressed delight that Nigeria is addressing climate change. Bakole, has said the country’s The UNIDO assisted N8.2 billion rich in renewable energies. “Recent government estimates The 2019 presidential candidate He said he would not run on energy crisis is surmountable hydro-electricity project in Obudu According to him, “Fortunately, indicated that SHP accounts for of the Young Progressive Party the platform of YPP but would with renewable energy resources Ranch Resort in the state to provide Nigeria is endowed with a about 15 percent of a hydropower (YPP), Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, has decide and join in the next few such as hydropower, solar, biomass alternative electricity to the state and tremendous amount of renewable potential of approximately said he will run for the presidency months, a party of his choice. and wind. other surrounding states was also energy resources such as 24,00MW.” again in 2023. Moghalu said he would run He said this in a statement on a four-point agenda which he personally signed yesterday. he code-named ‘SWAG.’ Alleged Sexual Harassment: FUOYE Slams Lecturer With Suspension The News Agency of Nigeria “SWAG means Security for all (NAN) reported that Moghalu, a Nigerians and Nigeria’s territory; Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti The statement said that The statement reads: “the Arts, Professor Tajudeen Opoola, former deputy governor of the War against poverty: skills, jobs Mbachaga’s suspension came Vice-Chancellor of FUOYE, to conduct proper investigation Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), for our youths and an innovation The Federal University Oye- after a committee inaugurated Professor Abayomi Sunday into another allegation of announced shortly after the 2019 economy; Accelerated education Ekiti (FUOYE), has suspended by the institution’s Faculty of Arts Fasina, who has zero tolerance sexual harassment against presidential election that he had and healthcare reform; Good an Associate Professor in the to investigate the alleged sexual for indiscipline and any form another lecture in the same resigned from the YPP and had governance: inclusive, transparent, Department of Theatre and Media harassment established a prima of sexual harassment against department, Dr. Agofure, and also quit partisan politics. effective and accountable,” he said. Arts, Dr. Jonathan Mbachaga, over facie evidence against him. students of the institution, submit a report in due time for However, he said he changed He said if elected, he would an alleged sexual harassment. The suspension, which was has consequently approved the necessary actions.” his mind to join active politics run a government with a team This was contained in a with immediate effect, would pave suspension of Dr. Mbachaga to The statement added that again: “My decision to re-contest of highly competent Nigerians statement that was signed the way for a proper investigation allow for proper investigation the current management of the top seat is driven by concern from all parts of the country. yesterday by the Chief Information of the allegation by a five-member into the matter.” the university would do its for the youth and to seek a clearer “Along with strengthened, Officer to the Vice Chancellor, Mr. committee that was set up by the “The vice chancellor has also best to cleanse the system of alternative to the status quo that independent institutions, we Foluso Ogunmodede. vice chancellor of the FUOYE. mandated the Dean, Faculty of all social vices. would tackle challenges currently will deliver results on a 4 point facing the nation.” agenda in four years,” he said. Diaspora Igbo Group Insists on Restructuring, Fiscal Federalism A group of Igbo people in of ethnic cleaning and genocide. to him, should be a means of government based on democratic Ondo Pays N360m WASSCE Fees Diaspora, Igbo World Assembly The Chairman of IWA, Dr. tackling the worsening security rules and institutions in which (IWA), has insisted on the need Nwachukwu Anakwenze, who situation and the agitation for the power to govern is shared James Sowole in Akure executed by the state to revive its to restructure Nigeria to ensure stated this in his keynote address secession. between national and region/ education. true federalism as it was in the in Abuja at the just-concluded He said: “We need a Nigerian state governments. The individual The Government He said: “You will recall that 1963 Constitution based on regions Nigeria’s 2023 Presidential political structure that is based on federating units need to have more yesterday said N360 million was our administration has renewed or zones respectively. Transition Inter-ethnic peace equity, fair play, balance and equal control over their own affairs. spent on the payment of 2021 West its commitment to pay the West This is even as the group has dialogue, told the gathering access to political power for the “The regional government African School Certificate Examination African Senior School Certificate condemned strongly the federal that true fiscal federalism was good of all Nigerians. should control their resources (WASSCE) fee for students in public Examinations (WASSCE) fee for government position on the needed in Nigeria to address “IWA feels that what Nigeria and pay a percentage secondary schools in the state. students in public secondary schools shoot-at-sight order of South-east issues affecting the country. needs on the long run is true fiscal royalty tax to the federal It also stated that about N4 million in the state, in spite of the dwindling youths, noting that it was an act Restructuring Nigeria, according federalism which is a system of government. had been approved for the 2021 state resources. NABTEB fees for 209 final year “It is a common knowledge that students in the five technical colleges most states that had hitherto paid We’ve Reformed, Harmonised Tax Systems in Ogun, Says Abiodun of Ondo State. the WASSCE fees for their students Kayode Fasua Eyitayo as the President of the focus of his administration is (IPSAS), the TSA system, and The state Governor, Oluwarotimi had stopped such payment for a Institute of Chartered Accountant premised on the ‘ISEYA’ mantra, Billing and Payment Management Akeredolu, stated this in Akure, the long time. The Ogun State Governor, Prince of Nigerian (ICAN), assuring which stands for Infrastructure, System (BPMS) as part of reforms state capital, during the celebration of “It is no exaggeration that our Dapo Abiodun, yesterday revealed the people that the state under Social Wellbeing, Education, Youth of our financial system.” students who excelled at international government cannot afford to watch that his administration had carried his watch has reformed and Empowerment and Agriculture. The governor listed other and national competitions and state the educational career of our students, out several tax and financial harmonise the tax system as He added that the tax reforms elements of the financial reforms to examinations during the 2020/2021 especially the indigent ones, truncated reforms to eliminate bottlenecks well as levies in order to eliminate would make the tax regime very include adoption of the Medium academic session. for lack of fund. To the glory of and enhance the ease of doing multiple taxation. transparent and provide for online Term Expenditure Framework Represented by the Secretary God, about two months ago, we business in the state. Noting that the state payment and filling of tax returns. (MTEF), the Medium Term to the State Government (SSG), paid the sum of N360 million for The governor stated this in government is in partnership According to him, “We have Revenue Strategy (MTRS) and Princess Oladunni Odu, the governor 2021 WASSCE fee for students in Lagos while speaking at the with the private sector on many also implemented the International the establishment of the Fiscal highlighted some of the policies public secondary schools in the state.” investiture of Mrs. Olujumoke fronts, Abiodun explained that Public Sector Accounting System Responsibility Commission. WEDNESDAY JUNE 2, 2021 ˾THISDAY 47

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email [email protected] WEDNESDAYSPORTS 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY Eagles’ Camp in Austria Bubbles with 17 Players for Cameroon Friendly Femi Solaja Iwobi, , Wilfred , had on Monday Brom’s Semi Ajayi, Fulham’s a double-header at Stadion World Cup qualifiers against Ndidi, Kelechi Iheanacho and expressed his worries in an , Benfica’s Tyronne Weiner Neustadt on Friday Liberia and Cape Verde Islands With barely two days to the joining the interview with ESPN that the Ebuehi and Hoffenheim’s with the second game coming in August and September. first of two friendlies arranged train to the Austria camp later absence of players with injuries Kevin Akpoguma pose great up four days later on June 8. The Super Eagles recently for Super Eagles, no fewer than in the evening. like Napoli’s , danger for the game. The friendlies were qualified for the 2022 Africa 17 players are in camp for the Other Eagles in camp as at last Crotone’s Simy Nwankwo, The Super Eagles will take arranged as part of Nigeria’s Cup of Nations after finishing match against the Indomitable night include; Jamilu Collins, Etebo Porto’s Zaidu Sanusi, West on the Indomitable Lions in preparation for the upcoming top of the Group L. Lions of Cameroon on Friday. Oghenekaro, Valentine Ozonwafor, The three-time African Anayo Iwuala, Abraham Marcus, champions have already settled Terem Moffi, Peter Olayinka with down for business in Austria Samson Tijani completing the list despite initial fears that of 17 players. withdrawal of seven key Eagles Super Eagles Head Coach, may scuttle the tune-up matches ahead of the World Cup 2022 qualifiers in September. Super Eagles’ Media Officer, Babafemi Raji, confirmed to THISDAY that majority of the players came into the camp last night. The team had light work out session late in the evening while the main training will hold this morning (Wednesday) before the match on Friday. According to Raji, all the three invited goalkeepers namely; Maduka Okoye, and John Noble were amongst the early arrivals with the Vice-captain, Kelechi ‘Senior Man’ Iheanacho William Troost-Ekong, Alex at training yesterday in Austria Ndidi Laments Leicester Super Eagles’ Goalkeeper Trainer, Alloy Agu (right) plotting with goalkeepers Francis Uzoho, Maduka Okoye and John Noble how to stop Cameroon’s City’s UCL Miss Indomitable Lions on Friday in Austria Super Eagles’ midfielder, “We all know Kelechi , has expressed his Iheanacho is a very good player. disappointment after Leicester Right from the U17 days, he can City failed to qualify for the score goals, he can make assists,” Ancelotti Dumps Iwobi’s Everton for Vacant Real Madrid Job 2021-22 UEFA Champions he continued. Everton have been left stunned Montanaro, are also expected In a statement, Ancelotti said: This will be his fifth such League. “As a footballer not getting after Carlo Ancelotti accepted to leave. “I would like to thank the Board appointment since he took charge The Foxes failed in their much time playing can actually an offer from Florentino Perez Madrid turned to Ancelotti of Directors, the players, and the at Goodison Park in February quest to finish in the top four reduce your confidence but I’m and agreed to return to Real after missing out on Max Evertonians for the tremendous 2016 and it is imperative that very happy he’s back. Madrid. Allegri, who has been re- support they have all given me this decision is right. of the English Premier League Ancelotti, who led Real to appointed by Juventus, and during my time at the Club. Nuno Espirito Santo was on the last day of the season “I’ve always tried to encourage their 10th Champions League Mauricio Pochettino but the “I have complete respect for quickly installed as one of the for an automatic spot in the top him, he’s always giving his best in title in 2014, received a firm offer speed in which this move has everyone associated with Everton favourites to succeed Ancelotti European competition. training but you could see Jamie from the Spanish giants over been completed has thrown and hope they can achieve the but he is also wanted by Crystal Leicester lost their last crucial Vardy is always there, running the weekend and will return Everton’s plans for next season exciting opportunities they have Palace, who have been speaking game to Tottenham Hotspur to round the pitch. to Santiago Bernabeu after a into disarray. in front of them. to the Portuguese since last week. finish fifth on the final league “I just feel if Kelechi had the compensation package was The 61-year-old reported to “While I have enjoyed being Eddie Howe, was in the table. chance he would have actually agreed; the Italian has signed Finch Farm, the club’s training at Everton I have been presented frame to replace Marco Silva The Nigeria international who done something that time when a three-year contract. base, at 11:15am yesterday with an unexpected opportunity at Goodison Park in December had this past season helped there was no chance for him to Ancelotti will take his son, morning for talks with Marcel which I believe is the right move 2019. Brendan Rodgers’ men to win showcase but now he’s doing Davide, to be his assistant, along Brands, Everton’s Sporting for me and my family at this They were linked with Steven the FA Cup title, expressed everything I expected of him and with his son-in-law Mino Fulco, Director – the Dutchman’s time.” Gerrard, the current Rangers his disappointment on missing we all know the kind of player who was Everton’s Head of attempts to convince Ancelotti Farhad Moshiri, Everton’s manager and Liverpool icon, out on a place in the European he is and I’m very proud of him Performance. Ancelotti’s long- to stay until 2023 and honour major shareholder, must now but there would be little chance competition. and happy to play in the same serving fitness coach, Francesco his £11million-per-year contract begin the search for another of success if Everton decided to “Every player wants to play team with him.” Mauri, and analyst, Simeone were futile. new manager. pursue the 41-year-old. in the Champions League if The Super Eagles midfielder they have the opportunity but if also praised the influence of you don’t have the opportunity, Leicester manager Rodgers on ITTF Confirms Aruna’s Qualification for Tokyo 2020 grab whatever you see,” Ndidi his development at the club. The International Table Tennis to compete in the men’s singles London 2012 and Rio 2016. the Caretaker Committee of told SuperSport’s Monday Night “Brendan Rodgers is a very Federation (ITTF) yesterday event at Tokyo Olympic Games He is to join his compatriots NTTF, Ishaku Tikon said he has Footballprogramme. good coach, he is tactical. He’s confirmed the eventualnext month. - Olajide Omotayo, Olufunke been proved right with the “We played the final (FA a lovable coach, the players love qualification of Nigeria’s Quadri “It is with great pleasure, I Oshonaike and Edem Offiong to confirmation by ITTF as the Cup) before the Premier him because he is not just a coach, Aruna for the rescheduled Tokyo announce the qualification of compete in the men and women’s exploits of Aruna in the last two 2020 Olympic Games in Japan. Quadri Arena to compete in the singles event respectively at years were enough to secure him League matches ended and so he’s also like a father figure to us a place at the Games. we actually grabbed that one (the players),” he added. According to a letter addressed table tennis Men’s Singles event at Tokyo. and hoping to qualify for the “He’s very friendly, smiles, his to the President of the Nigeria the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, It was at Rio 2016 in Brazil that Champions League. door is always open for players. Olympic Committee (NOC) on the basis of World Ranking Arena stunned the world with his “It’s not like we were just hoping He has actually improved my and immediate past President allocation according to the June performance to become the first game psychologically and of the Nigeria Table Tennis 2021 ITTF Olympic Qualification African to reach the quarterfinal to qualify for the Champions Federation (NTTF) and singed Ranking,” Felegyi stated. after edging out some of the best League and just let the FA Cup on the pitch, understanding by ITTF Competition Director He however, stated that NOC players in the world including just go away like that,” observed the game. Gabor Felegyi, Aruna who is is expected to confirm Aruna’s former world number one, Timo the Leicester midfielder enforcer. the first African in the history participation on or before June 16. Boll of Germany. Ndidi however remains of the Olympic Games to make With this development, He eventually lost in the quarter grateful to God winning the it to the quarter-final stage of Aruna will be making his third final to the eventual winner of the FA Cup with Leicester. the singles event is expected to appearance at the Olympic gold medal, Ma Long of China. Quadri Aruna...qualifies for Tokyo “I’m very grateful that we join 85 others across the globe Games having featured in An excited Chairman of 2020 grabbed that one but it wasn’t possible Ti for us to go to the Champions League.” Nigeria Info, Wazobia Win Euro 2020 Broadcast Rights Ndidi also expressed his In a bid to create a quality tournament across the country. Commenting on the ground- understand that most Nigerians delight with the performance sport-broadcasting experience The competition would be breaking development, the Chief are genuinely passionate about the of his compatriot and teammate for Nigerians, leading-media broadcast across Wazobia FM, Executive Officer (CEO) for Cool game of football. That is why we Kelechi Iheanacho. firms, Nigeria Info and Wazobia Arewa Radio, Cool FM Kano, and FM, Wazobia FM, Nigeria Info, have taken it upon ourselves to go Max, under the auspices of AIM Wazobia Max both in English and Arewa Radio, Serge Noujain, a step further after the acquisition The centre-forward delivered Group, have been awarded the selected local languages, including described the partnership as one of the World Cup 2018 Russia spectacular performances in the broadcast rights from the official Pidgin English, Hausa, Igbo, and that would further strengthen the broadcast rights by partnering 2020-21 season, scoring 19 goals UEFA-licensed owner in Nigeria, Yoruba, in order to cater for the love Nigerians have for the game the MBS to freely broadcast the and providing seven assists in Wilfred Ndidi...sad missing Cham- Media Business Solutions (MBS), sporting needs of a wide-spectrum of football. UEFA Euro 2020 tournament in 39 appearances for the Foxes. pions League ticket with Leicester to freely air the UEFA Euro 2020 of Nigerians. “We as a leading brand a unique Nigerian style. T RU N Wednesday June 2, 2021TH & REASO Price: N250 MISSILE Book Your Buhari to Secessionists COVID-19 Tests & Vaccinations “Many of those misbehaving today are too young to be aware of the TEXT‘COVID’ TO58123 destruction and loss of lives that occurred during the Nigerian Civil War. Those of us in the fi elds for 30 months, who went through the war, will treat them in the language they understand” – President Buhari assuring those who want to destroy his government This service is provided in association with accredited service providers they will be shocked. KAYODEKOMOLAFE THE HORIZON [email protected] 0805 500 1974 The Constitution-Making Industry aking a people’s constitution is It is, therefore, relevant to ask why all attempts legislations and constitutional amendments. In fact, not only a ritual in Nigeria, it to review the constitutions in the last 22 years have not a few advocates of “restructuring” and “true has also evolved into a yet -to- be failed despite the huge amount of money spent federalism” who participated in the conference have acknowledged industry. in the process. In order to ensure the success said that the ills of the Nigerian federalism could be The industry fl ourishes when of the current attempt, this question should be substantially cured with a clinical implementation of Mthe ferment is generated against the subsisting answered in the national interest. some of the recommendations of the distinguished constitution and activities are stepped up for the It was no surprise that barely six months after his forum. The problem started with the failure of making of another which the promoters believe inauguration on May 29, 1999, President Olusegun Jonathan, whose idea the conference was in the would be the only legitimate document as the Obasanjo set up a multi-party committee to review fi rst place, to implement even the administrative basic law of the land. the constitution. The Attorney-General in that part of the report. Jonathan’s successor, President Politicians push vigorously for a new constitution administration, Chief Bola Ige, had been a strong Muhammadu Buhari, has been urged in vain to when out of power and they pay a lip service to advocate of sovereign national conference and give leadership in the process of implementing constitution reviews when they are in government. restructuring. Ige was the deputy leader of Afenifere the aspects of the report requiring constitutional The politics of constitution-making is such that and a former presidential aspirant on the platform amendments. These aspects include power politicians are good at identifying the problems of of AD. His support for the proclaimed work of devolution, creation of state police and purging Nigeria only when they are out of power. the committee was conspicuous. The presidential the exclusive list of some items that should be Apart from the episodic heat generated by the committee had members from the three major in the residual list. Yet the conference cost the politics of constitution-making or review, the parties at the time – the then ruling Peoples nation a fortune. Items for constitutional reviews exercise comes with a lot of cost. The reports of Democratic Party (PDP), All Nigerian People’s are still being discussed, but the cost is never the past efforts at making a new constitution or Party (ANPP) and the Alliance for Democracy discussed as it is normal with the ethos of the reviewing the existing one are simply ignored (AD). The presidential committee was liberal constitution-making industry. while the frenzy for a fresh attempt is taking enough to have a member of an opposition President Buhari’s party, the All Progressives place. Worse still, the cost of the past exercise Buhari party, the AD, Ambassador Yusuf Mamman, to Congress (APC) campaigned among other things does not come into reckoning as funds are made be the chairman. He was later replaced by Alhaji on the platform of restructuring in 2015. However, available for another exercise. Billions have been fi rst was if Nigeria should be one country and Ahmed Abdulkadir when the AD crisis erupted. it is clear now that restructuring has never been spent since 1999 on reviewing the constitution; the second was on the structure of the union. The The Ford Foundation partly funded the exercise. Buhari’s priority. In the build-up to the 2019 but the huge cost is hardly a matter of public deaths within a space of one month of the Head of The committee reportedly submitted an “interim election, however, the APC set up a committee discussion. In most cases the executive and State, General , and that of the winner report” to the government. Till he left power on to reformulate its position on restructuring of legislature set up parallel committees to work of the June 12 election, Bashorun MKO Abiola, May 29, 2007, Obasanjo never referred to the the Nigerian federation. The committee headed on reviewing the constitution. Just as it is the brought an entirely different political scenario. report of this committee of eminent Nigerians. by Governor Nasir el-Rufai of Kaduna state has case in the current attempt, the Senate and the The succeeding regime of General Abdulsalami Meanwhile, successive committees of the National submitted its report a long time ago. The President House of Representatives appointed at various Abubakar was wisely conscious of the fact the public Assembly were also actively working on the review is yet to give effect to his party’s manifesto in periods separate committees. The committee mood would not countenance another prolonged of the constitution. The topics which the various this respect. members, of course, travelled round the country military rule. So the 1999 was understandably committees examined included devolution of power, However, the constitution-making cycles have in the name of “meeting the people” at enormous put together in a hurry to give the legal basis to state police, fi scal federalism, status of the local continued. About 24 months to the end of Buhari’s public expense. Sometimes, the committee members the Fourth Republic. Now, those who dismiss the government etc. These are the same issues being tenure, the political landscape is agog again with went abroad to get inspiration from other countries document contemptuously as “illegitimate” and “a debated today as if they just emerged from the activities to review the 1999 constitution. on making a people’s constitution or to consult big lie” (even though it has been the constitution womb of the polity. Now, restructuring or the quest for a “true with Nigerians in the diaspora. longest in use in the nation’s political history!) Obasanjo was not done yet in responding to federalism” is ultimately a constitutional question. Meanwhile, the expenditures made on the often skip some parts of the story. Despite the the agitation in the political landscape. Although The legislative steps required to bring this about mostly still-born constitution-making exercises fact that he was in offi ce for less than a year, he never pursued restructuring while in power, are strictly within the purview of the National were seemingly not affected by the economic General Abubakar set up a committee headed Obasanjo played politics with the agitation for Assembly. climate of poverty enveloping the lives of the by Justice Niki Tobi made up of distinguished “true federalism.” In 2005, he inaugurated a In fact, this otherwise valid point has people for whom the constitution is supposedly Nigerians. The committee also went round Political Reform Conference. The conference been opportunistically exploited by the Buhari meant at any time. the country (as some persons are doing now) attracted the best and the brightest within the administration that is really not enamoured of So, each time you hear of constitution-making to seek the views of the people. The exercise polity and the civil society. For instance, the great restructuring. The unhelpful refrain of some members in Nigeria always remember that it is not only too was at a monetary cost to the nation. At the nationalist Chief Anthony Enahoro, a prominent of the administration has been that if you want thousands of words that would be spoken, billions end of the opinion sampling, the nucleus of the advocate of a sovereign national conference and restructuring, go to the National Assembly. of Naira and millions of dollars are also spent 1999 constitution came from the important 1979 restructuring, led the Edo state delegation to the Meanwhile, some restructuring advocates and in the process. This is the defi ning feature of the Constitution, the draft of which was memorably conference. Not a line of the recommendations enthusiasts of “true federalism” still question the Nigeria constitution-making industry. It is, of course, debated by an elected constituent assembly in of the conference on constitutional amendments legitimacy of the legislature to genuinely review consistent with the culture of non-accountability 1977/78. Some critics of the 1999 Constitution was ever implemented despite the huge public the constitution. According to these critics, the in the public realm. now present issues as if a soldier merely wrote funds expended during the months that eminent sovereign power to make a constitution resides In a clime of genuine accountability, it would be a paper and proclaimed it as the constitution. Nigerians converged in Abuja. in the people and not in the legislature created amazing to know how much has been spent by As Abubakar said recently on Arise Television, President Umaru Yar’adua isolated the issues by the constitution that should be changed. They the successive administrations and sessions of the his regime could not be held responsible for the of lack of credibility of the electoral process by want an entirely new document derived from the National Assembly on reviewing the constitution. inability of the nation in 22 years to review the setting up a committee headed by former Chief popular will. Yet, it will take an unconstitutional It would also be interesting to know how much constitution comprehensively or even make a new Justice of the federation, Justice Muhammadu measure to take away the power of constitution the non-governmental bodies and groups have one as some Nigerians would rather prefer as an Uwais. Yar’adua died before the end of his tenure. review from the legislative arm of government invested in the business of “inclusive” review option. And Abubakar is quite right on that score. Successive administrations have ignored the report created by the 1999 Constitution, however or making of the constitution. It is time to audit of the committee including the aspects that could defective anyone may think it is at present. It not only the reports of the past efforts at making require constitutional amendments. is sheer optical illusion to think otherwise. No a constitution but also the cost to government and Before President Goodluck Jonathan inaugurated incumbent government will voluntarily convoke non-governmental bodies. The auditing should be It is relevant to the famous 2014 Conference, the Seventh National a sovereign national conference for the purpose extended to the support of foreign governments Assembly was actually carrying out its own edition of making a new constitution. This is one of the and non-governmental institutions. ponder why all of constitution-making. As a matter of fact, on hidden problematics of restructuring by means The foregoing proposition could be illustrated February 27, 2013 the Joint National Assembly of a review or amendment of the constitution. To with samples of attempts made “to do something attempts to review Committee was in Chatham House in London solve this conundrum, the dissonance between about the constitution” in the last 22 years. to “consult” with Nigerians based in the United ethnic and regional champions on the one hand The important background to this was the the constitution in Kingdom on the review of the 1999 Constitution. and their respective representatives at the federal constitutional component of the agitation for Among the constitutional matters that came up and state legislatures on the other hand should the revalidation of the June 12, 1993 presidential the last 22 years in the discussions were gender inequality, state be removed. election. In the struggle for June 12, the call for a creation, local governments, integrity of elections There is, therefore, the need for a lot clarity of “sovereign national conference” was strident. Implicit have failed despite and immunity for chief executive offi cers and their purpose so that the constitution would be seen in the call was the idea that the proceedings of the deputies from prosecution. The 2014 conference for what it is really: a living document that is proposed conference would be distilled into a “truly the huge amount of attracted wide interests across the political spectrum subject to amendments as the need arises from federal” constitution which would determine and the various divides. The high quality conference one age to another. the terms of the Nigerian union. The proponents money spent in the took its task seriously and competently discharged it. This is necessary to put an end to the growing of the sovereign conference often said that the Some of its recommendations require administrative industry of periodic making of constitution at conference should answer two questions. The process steps for implementation while some others require enormous costs. Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja . All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, Lagos. EMAIL: [email protected], [email protected]. TELEPHONE Lagos: 0802 2924721-2, 08022924485. Abuja: Tel: 08155555292, 08155555929 24/7 ADVERTISING HOT LINES: 0811 181 3085 0811 181 3086, 0811 181 3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811 181 3089, 0811 181 3090. ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: [email protected]