Naira Strengthens, as Bank CEOs Pledge Support for New CBN FX Policy Apex bank to refund pending licensing fees to BDC promoters Says no going back on ban of FX sale to BDCs Bureau de Change operators: we are still in business James Emejo in , Nume to a dollar on the parallel Executive Officers (CEOs) of regulator’s effort to achieve a dollar yesterday. De Change (BDC) promoters Ekeghe and Ugo Aliogo in market on Thursday, stronger banks promised to support FX stability. CBN also said it will who had pending licence Lagos than the N525 to a dollar it the new foreign exchange On the Investors and commence the refund of capital applications before Tuesday’s closed the previous day. The (FX) measures of the Central Exporters’ (I & E) FX window, deposits and licencing fees, The naira appreciated to N520 appreciation came as Chief Bank of (CBN) and the the naira closed at N411.67 to where applicable, to Bureau Continued on page 10

NSIA to Invest $200m in World-class Hospital, 20 Other Projects Nationwide... Page 6

Friday 30 July, 2021 Vol 26. No 9608. Price: N250

www.thisdaylive.com T R U N T H & R E ASO Hushpuppi: IG Orders Review of FBI’s Allegation Against Abba Kyari US court orders arrest of top cop Force headquarters rattled by development My hands are clean, says Kyari Chuks Okocha and Kingsley the scale of allegations of Nigeria's most decorated Bureau of Investigation, FBI, of Kyari's involvement, in a Hushpuppi. Nwezeh in Abuja corruption, abuse of power police officers, Deputythe Inspector General of series of crimes committed by Baba’s order followed a and torture of suspects, Commissioner of Police Police, Usman Alkali Baba, a notorious internet fraudster, Apparently stunned by levelled against one of (DCP) Abba Kyari, by Federal has ordered an internal review Ramon Abbas otherwise called Continued on page 41 APC in Jeopardy Over Buni’s Continued Stay as National Chair Presidential aides want him sacked Omo-Agege insists his stay is legal Uba’s candidacy in Anambra uncertain

Chuks Okocha in Abuja the situation portended serious crisis for the party, a few others Wednesday’s Supreme Court were of the view that the party judgement in the Ondo State was on the right path. governorship election might In its split judgment of four have opened the pandora’s against three by the seven box within the All Progressives member-panel, which sat Congress (APC) and exposed on the Ondo governorship the ruling party to a bleak election petition, the Supreme political future. Court had contended that the If legal experts’ analyses of reason it did not sack Governor the judgment were anything Rotimi Akeredolu of the state, to ponder, then, the fate that was because the Peoples befell the APC in Zamfara Democratic Party (PDP) and State after the 2019 elections its governorship candidate in would be a child’s play by the October 10, 2020 election, the time the consequences of Eyitayo Jegede, failed to join their current choices began to the National Chairman of the manifest before and after the party's Caretaker Committee 2023 polls. and Governor of Yobe State, Even more, stakeholders Mai Mala Buni, even when the are currently divided over issues revolved around him. the matter with the party Expectedly, this development congresses still going ahead as had immediately divided the GLOBAL EDUCATION SUMMIT... scheduled. While a majority of stakeholders in the APC over President Muhammadu Buhari (left) with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, during a bilateral meeting at the sidelines of the party members were convinced Continued on page 10 Global Education Summit on Financing Global Partnership for Education (GPE)...yesterday

Terrorism: Buhari Assures British PM of Non-interference With Judicial Process... Page 6 2 FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 • THISDAY 3 4 FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY,  ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY 5

Group News Editor: Goddy Egene NEWS Email: [email protected], 08033506821, 08097777322

BOOSTING OGUN'S ECONOMY... L-R: Managing Director of Med-In Pharmaceuticals, Tola Awosika; Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire; Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun; his Ondo State counterpart, Rotimi Akeredolu and Chairman, Med-In Pharmaceuticals, Olubayode Awosika, during the official commissioning of the company's factory by the Ogun State governor at Sagamu Interchange, Ogun State...yesterday Private Sector Owns 70% of N12.7tn Pension Fund, Says PENCOM FG to review 2014 Pension Act Olawale Ajimotokan in are working for the federal increment. Ejikeme said over Meanwhile, Yemi-Esan received submissions from that her office had paid Abuja government, the states and, N7.2 billion was paid as said the federal government the Contributory Pensions over N2.4 billion to over largely, private sector. a result of arrears and to saw review of the Pension Union of Nigeria and a 594 beneficiaries as death The National Pension “About 5.8 million are pensioners not on payroll Reform Act, 2014, as a number of officers urging benefits to the next of kin Commission (PENCOM) actually people from the in addition to payment of major task that must be the review to enhance the of deceased officers from the has revealed that private private sector. The private entitlement to next of kin of accomplished. She explained welfare of workers. N2.5 billion released by the sector workers own 70 per sector owns over 70 per verified deceased pensioners. that the government had Yemi-Esan disclosed federal government. cent of the N12.7 trillion cent of this money because in the Retirement Savings they contribute more. When Account (RSA) under the we remove the state, we contributory pension scheme. can see that the amount NERC Bars TCN from Dealing with The Commissioner, that belong to the federal Administration, at PENCOM, government employees and Dr. Umar Aminu, disclosed contributors is generally less this yesterday in Abuja than 10 to 20 per cent. So we Unlicensed Eligible Customers at a Town Hall meeting need to put this thing into on effective pension perspective: that you can’t National power grid restored after collapse administration in the public take private sector money service organised by the for the public sector because Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and access to electricity supply recognised by the TCN have immediately commenced the Office of the Head of Civil when we were talking about for unserved or underserved not secured approval. While restoration of the grid and by Service of the Federation. reform initially, there were The Nigeria Electricity Regulatory high-end users in Nigeria. stressing that the rules must 12:46 pm, power supply in Abuja That was as Head of contentious issues that we Commission (NERC) has warned Introduced in 2017, it specifies be followed strictly, he noted was fully restored from Shiroro the Civil Service of the were confronted with by the the Transmission Company of the classes of end-use customers that if NERC had not conferred generating station. Federation, Dr Folashade private sector that we were Nigeria (TCN) against dealing that will be able to directly eligibility, any entity doing that “At 1:05 pm, TCN equally Yemi-Esan, said the federal going to take their money with unlicensed individuals and purchase electricity from licensees was operating illegally. He said commenced grid restoration from government was considering and use it for the public business concerns on the eligible other than the sole incumbent the commission had been fair the Delta Power Station, and at a review of the Pension sector.” customer basis. distribution licensees, the to all parties. 4:59 pm, a full restoration of the Reform Act, 2014. The commissioner also Speaking during the “Power Distribution Companies (Discos). Oseni further stated that entire grid was achieved,” the Aminu said the money was stated that PENCOM had Dialogue” for July, organised NERC said TCN should deal NERC was in the process of statement said. a contribution that belonged not been able to carry out by the “Electricity Hub”, Vice with only those who had fulfilled approving self-reporting apps While appreciating the to 9.3 million people working a review of the pension Chairman, NERC, Dr. Musiliu the eligibility conditions. being developed by vendors that government, electricity customers in the private sector as well retirement benefits because it Oseni, explained that the TCN Oseni said, “What we have would be able to confirm the nationwide, and its international as the federal and state was still awaiting the 33 per could not continue to deal had so far is that there are number of hours of electricity customers for their patience, TCN governments. cent from the consequential directly with the so-called some of the transactions that received by customers. noted that it would continue The commissioner, who adjustment benefits following eligible customers when they are already being recognised as Meanwhile, giving details to work hard to expand and stood in for the Director the implementation of the had not met the requirements eligible customer transactions of the power situation, Mbah maintain the stability of the General of PENCOM, Aisha N30, 000 minimum wage. for eligibility. by the TCN without the said in the statement that reports national grid. Dahir-Umar, put the number In addition, he said the In a related development, commission’s approval. That available to TCN showed that Nigeria’s fragile national of private sector workers, commission had cleared TCN said yesterday that it had was why the commission about 12:20 pm, two generating power grid had collapsed on who owned the bulk of the all pension arrears up till restored the national electricity said, stop recognising them units tripped in one generating Wednesday, leaving parts of the contribution at 5.8 million. December 2020 from the grid after a total system collapse as eligible customers, not that station while four equally tripped country without power supply His remarks followed N100 billion, which was that occurred Wednesday the commission said, stop in another generating station, from the system controlled from reservations against a approved last month by afternoon. TCN’s General supplying them, because we causing a loss of 261MW and Osogbo by the wholly federal proposed use of the pension President Muhammadu Manager, Public Affairs, Mrs said let the billing be done the 350MW, respectively, bringing government-owned TCN. contributions for the payment Buhari. Ndidi Mbah, said in a statement way it was being done prior the total loss of electricity on Industry players insist that of pensions of federal Speaking also at the town in Abuja that power was fully to that recognition, when the the grid to 611MW. a spinning reserve, which is government retirees. hall meeting, Executive restored at 4:59 pm on July 28, commission had not issued the “It is suspected that the the generation capacity that is Aminu stated, “When we Secretary, Pension Transitional after the grid collapse triggered permits.” sudden loss of 611MW from the online but unloaded and can talk of the N12.7 trillion Arrangement Directorate by a sudden drop in system He stated that currently NERC grid caused system instability respond within 10 minutes to I mentioned today, this (PTAD), Dr. Chioma Ejikeme, frequency to 47.21Hz. had only approved one eligible and its eventual collapse,” the compensate for generation or money is a contribution said the directorate had fully The eligible customer customer, which is Phoenix in TCN spokesperson explained. transmission outages remains that belongs to 9.3 million liquidated the 33 per cent regulation was developed by Ogun State, explaining that all After the collapse, the company the immediate solution to the people, including people who arrears for the 2010 pension NERC to facilitate competition the remaining eligible customers said its system operators incessant grid collapses. 6 FRIDAY,  ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY NEWS NSIA to Invest $200m in World-class Hospital, 20 Other Projects Nationwide Deji Elumoye in Abuja including pension funds. agency had revived domestic four available in 2016, to 47 for many Nigerians. its Presidential Infrastructure “These projects will be fertiliser production, raising the blending plants, currently, while NSIA was established by the Development Fund (PIDF) The Nigeria Sovereign commercial, profitable over blending plants from the initial also crashing prices from about federal government in 2012 as with a total contribution of Investment Authority (NSIA) time, because they are economic four in 2016, to 47 blending N13,000 in 2026, to the current a multi-purpose investments $1.7 billion, made up of initial has concluded plans to build assets. That’s the only way they plants across the country average cost of about N7,000." vehicle to manage the country’s contributions of $650 million, a world-class hospital in Abuja, are going to be maintained.” currently. According to him, sovereign wealth fund. The $265 million, and the recently as part of efforts to strengthen On the Presidential Fertiliser He stated, "The NSIA has government has, through the federal government had also in recovered $311 million Abacha the country’s healthcare system. initiative, the NSIA managing grown fertiliser blending domestic initiatives, created 2016 saddled the agency with loot, which was transferred to NSIA is also developing 20 director disclosed that the plants in Nigeria from the employment opportunities the responsibilities of managing the agency. other health projects in the areas of cancer, radiology, and diagnostics nationwide to support Nigeria's comatose FG: $2.3 Trillion Required to Achieve Nigeria’s Infrastructure Master Plan health sector as part of its health intervention initiative. Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja investment. Therefore, private refocus its efforts to deliver on its stated that while Buhari “We have developed new Managing Director of NSIA, sector participation becomes agenda, noting that the general places strong commitment on programmes in the last six years Mr. Uche Orji, stated this on The federal government said more compelling if Nigeria is election of 2015 that brought infrastructure development, to improve access to water in Thursday while speaking at yesterday that it would require to implement this particular APC to power was based on despite the challenges of rural areas. We are working on the weekly media chat by about $2.3 trillion cumulatively master plan,” he argued. campaign promise to accelerate funding, there have also been rehabilitation and expanding the the presidential media team, or $150 billion annually to In recent years, the SGF stated economic development, enhance missed opportunities. irrigation infrastructure by 50 at State House, Abuja. upgrade the poor state of that Nigeria has conducted security and a robust fight He argued that a vibrant per cent. We have launched the Orji said, "Our flagship Nigeria’s infrastructure. several important infrastructure against corruption. economy could not be achieved National Irrigation Development programme is our world-class Speaking at the Business sector reforms, including “Six years into the life of the without security of life and Programme (NIDP) and by 2030, hospital that we are building Hallmark Public Policy Forum extending and upgrading the administration, any impartial property of the people in the we hope that we can have 1.5 here in Abuja that will be a titled: “Nigeria’s Infrastructure nation’s railway network and observer can see that the country, stressing that every million hectares and 50 per centre for advanced medicine." Revolution; Road to a New introducing locomotive coaches, performance of the government emphasis must be laid on the cent of our irrigation potential According to him, “Our Future”, hosted by Mr. Marc building quality roads and has been mixed. There have been provision of adequate security. developed,” he stated. objective now is to build 20 Wabara and anchored by Dr. setting up several initiatives areas of soaring successes , as in Also speaking, Minister of Minister of Works and more of these centres across Alex Otti as well as Adesuwa like Infraco which will soon the infrastructure development Water Resources, Mr Suleiman Housing, Mr Babatunde the country. We are starting Onyenokwe, Secretary to the take off. and programmes. Adamu , said that as far Fashola, stated that despite this year with three; next year Government of the Federation In his remarks, former “But there are also areas back as 1992, 30 per cent of the fall in crude oil price, the will be seven, and then another (SGF), Mr Boss Mustapha, noted National Chairman of the All where we have fallen a little the Nigerian population was federal government increased 10 the following year. This is that the private sector is expected Progressives Congress (APC), short. Many reasons have been enjoying pipe borne water and the budget for roads from N18 everything from cancer, to to fund about 56 per cent of Mr John Oyegun, explained that adduced for the not so successful as at 2015, it had dropped to billion to N260 billion, an over radiology to diagnostics." this sum. after six years of service in a stories. Obviously, more work 7 per cent. 1,300 per cent increase. The managing director According to him, even tenure of eight years, it was needs to be done in order to end According to him, in 2015, “This spend has resulted added that NSIA had already with dwindling resources, the necessary to sit back and review with an overall positive narrative Nigeria had 68 per cent today in 895 ongoing contracts built one world-class cancer federal government is committed achievements and engage the at the end of the tenure of this national coverage for access across the country for roads centre at the Lagos University to putting in its own 44 per populace so as to obtain feedback administration and to justify the to water, but noted that with and bridges, covering 13,552 Teaching Hospital (LUTH) and cent to ensure that the nation’s on impact. massive hope and confidence government effort, this has kilometres of construction, two radiology and diagnostics infrastructure stock which he He added that the outcome invested in the president and risen to 70 per cent and is rehabilitation and renovation centres in Kano and Umuahia. said the Muhammadu Buhari of the meeting will enable the APC,” he said. further expected to jump to across the length and breadth He stated that NSIA’s health met at 35 per cent is upgraded. government to recalibrate and The former Edo state governor 72 per cent by the end of 2021. of the country,” he said. care investment company was “It is important that we managing the health sector appreciate where we are coming initiatives. from, where we stand, what we Orji stated, “I am happy to need to do to get to our desired report that those centres are destination and most importantly, working successfully. At the what government is doing to moment, these three projects facilitate reaching that destination. are doing quite well." “At inception, in May, 2015, Commenting on the country's President Buhari’s administration infrastructure development, Orji was confronted with a monster said the $1.7 billion Presidential that is a huge infrastructure Infrastructure Development Fund challenge, indicated by (PIDF) was being channelled into infrastructure stock that was the execution of the on-going estimated 35 per cent of Gross Lagos-Ibadan expressway, Second Domestic Product (GDP), he Niger Bridge, Abuja-Kano road, stated. and the Mambilia hydropower Mustapha stated that this projects. number was grossly inadequate He explained that NSIA’s for a country that was in dire project considerations were need of inclusive growth and driven by four major parameters: was far below the 70 per cent nationwide importance, ability international benchmark already to attract local and international attained by some emerging capital, projects with strong markets. commercial and social returns, He stated that in the light and conducive legal environment of limited resources worsened for such investments. by the Covid-19 pandemic, He disclosed that the first government needed to explore phase of the Second Niger other financing options, which Bridge and the Lagos-Ibadan necessitated a greater focus on expressway would be completed public private partnerships. in July 2022, while the Abuja- “For this, $2.3 trillion would Kano road would be completed be required, translating to about REPOSITIONING THE GAMING INDUSTRY... $150 billion annually and the later this year. L-R: Chairman, Governing Board, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, NLRC, Alhaji Abdulfatai Ibikunle; Minister, Special Orji said, “These roads have private sector provides 56 per nationwide importance. We are cent, while federal government Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, ; and Director-General, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Lanre looking to bringing in other and states will have to provide Gbajabiamila, during the opening session of the maiden National Gaming Conference with the theme: Repositioning the Gaming commercial capital contributors, 44 per cent of the share of Industry for Better Performance and Enhanced Revenue Generation for Stakeholders in the 21st Century, in Lagos on Wednesday Terrorism: Buhari Assures British PM of Non-interference with Judicial Process Britain, Commonwealth pledge security assistance Deji Elumoye in Abuja myriad of problems including that the judicial process ran Johnson said. release, listed the areas Baroness Scotland said the terrorism, general insecurity, without interference, no matter The two leaders equally the Commonwealth Scribe Commonwealth had developed President Muhammadu Buhari climate change, facing it. who was involved. discussed how to increase trade promised to assist Nigeria programmes on agribusiness, has assured the British Prime Media Adviser to the President Buhari briefed the between the two countries, to include countering violent adding value to agriculture Minister, Boris Johnson, that President, Femi Adesina, Prime Minister on Nigeria’s develop solar and wind power, extremism, trade, and products for young people to he would not interfere with in a release disclosed that power needs and efforts being leadership of the Commonwealth modalities to implement the get involved, climate change, the judicial trial of terrorism President Buhari and PM made, as well as initiatives going forward and other matters African Continental Free Trade criminal justice reforms, suspects in Nigeria. Johnson Thursday appraised geared at achieving food of mutual interest. Agreement (AfCFTA). police reforms, and security, In reciprocity, Britain too has the war against different forms security. Relatedly, Secretary-General She stressed that since inviting Nigeria to benefit from pledged to assist Nigeria to of terrorism in Nigeria, and He also reviewed the security of the Commonwealth, Baroness President Buhari was the technical assistance that could tackle security problems facing agreed that the judicial process situation in the different Patricia Scotland, pledged the Champion for Anti-Corruption be provided. all the regions that make up be allowed to run its course. regions of the country, while help of the Commonwealth on in Africa, the Commonwealth Buhari, while responding the country. Holding bilateral talks at the PM Johnson pledged Britain’s Thursday during a bilateral has developed anti-corruption said, Nigeria would be glad This is as the Commonwealth sidelines of the Global Education preparedness to lend a helping meeting with President Buhari benchmark tools, and would to receive support from the has also indicated its readiness Summit in London, the two hand. at the sidelines of the summit. like to work with Nigeria in Commonwealth in diverse to assist Nigeria to solve the leaders said it was important “We are available to help,” Adesina, in yet another both public and private sectors. areas of needs and challenges. FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 • THISDAY 7 8 FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 • THISDAY 9 10 FRIDAY,  ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY PAGE TEN NAIRA STRENGTHENS, AS BANK CEOS PLEDGE SUPPORT FOR NEW CBN FX POLICY announcement of the end of Wigwe, said authorised financial we will report to the CBN and Fees to BDC tuition fees, medical payments, sanctioned. FX sale to the currency dealers. institutions in the FX market the law enforcement agencies. Promoters and SMEs transactions, among The apex bank insisted it would ensure full compliance So if people intend to do things, others. ABCON to Engage would not rescind the ban with the CBN directives in order such as coming with a second CBN said it would immediately In the letter to all banks, CBN on FX sale to BDCs. Director, to ensure FX stability. Wigwe passport and other things, we commence the refund of capital signed by the Director, Banking Monetary Policy Department, said customers could walk into will report them to the law deposits and licensing fees, where Supervision Department, Mr. President, Association of CBN, Dr. Hassan Mahmud, their banks to purchase dollars enforcement agencies.” applicable, to BDC promoters Haruna Mustafa, the bank Bureaux De Change Operators said this yesterday when he for legitimate transactions. He added, “We feel that what who had pending license explained that the directive of Nigeria (ABCON), Aminu featured on “Arise Xchange,” He noted that the banks had the CBN has done is worthy of applications with the bank. CBN was part of the fallouts of the Gwadabe, yesterday said the a programme monitored on Arise agreed that the process would commendation because people in a circular to BDC promoters MPC meeting, which had also association would engage the News Channel, a THISDAY sister start immediately following a will have access to different and all banks, dated July 29, 2021, authorised the commercial banks CBN to address the ban on FX broadcast station. meeting with the CBN. channels to collect their BTAs and signed by the CBN Director, to begin accepting cash deposits sale to its members. Gwadabe Meanwhile, President, Wigwe, who is also Group and school fees required for Financial Policy and Regulation of foreign exchange from their said the planned engagement Association of Bureaux De Managing Director of Access their children. Department, Mr. Ibrahim Tukur, customers. The circular directed would, among other things, Change Operators of Nigeria Bank Plc, said the banks were “The banks have a lot more advised the affected promoters the banks to adequately publicise seek to identify and sanction (ABCON), Aminu Gwadabe, ready to meet the mandate of channels to assist the customers to forward their requests for the locations of designated earring BDCs. reacted yesterday to the CBN’s the CBN, adding that they have get access to forex, depending refund in writing to the Director, branches and make necessary In a statement, he clarified policy announcement. Gwadabe more than enough capacity to on where they are, even if they Financial Policy and Regulation arrangements to sell FX to that the association was still said the association would deliver. He explained that the are in Enugu or Port Harcourt." Department. customers in cash and/or providing FX services, in spite engage with the banking sector process would be centralised to In his remarks, Chief Executive It added that the requests electronically in compliance of the central bank’s action. regulator to address and resolve avoid abuse. Officer, Guaranty Trust Bank, should be accompanied with with extant regulations. Gwadabe said the all the issues that led to the ban The Access Bank GMD Segun Agbaje, expressed telex copy of initial deposit of CBN strongly advised banks pronouncement by the CBN did on FX sale to its members. pledged that the banks would the readiness of the bank to N35 million and account details to ensure that no customer was not stop BDCs from providing CBN Governor Godwin ensure that the measures that begin implementation of the of the refund, which should be turned back or refused FX, FX services as allowed by their Emefiele had disclosed the had been put in place were mandate given by the CBN. the same as the account from provided documentation and operating licences and in their end of FX sale to BDCs while not disrupted and abused, Agbaje assured customers that which the capital deposited all other requirements were operating guidelines. briefing journalists at the end saying, "We will also be the banks had the resources to originated, including bank name, satisfied. Gwadabe said, "BDCs are of a two-day meeting of the doing verification of the Bank fund the process, adding that account name and number, as The apex bank further warned licenced to provide retail FX Monetary Policy Committee Verification Number (BVN)." they have collectively agreed to well as copy of the bank draft/ against undue delays, rationing services, including buying from (MPC) in Abuja on Tuesday. He In addition, Wigwe said banks start immediately. telex for payment of licensing and diversion of FX, and the public and also selling directed all commercial banks to yet to adhere to the mandate by He also stated that different fee of N1 million, if any. directed commercial banks to to end-users for allowable immediately create designated the regulator to create a forex banks had different processes, CBN further directed all establish electronic applications transactions, namely, PTA, branches for the sale and disposal desk would be sanctioned. therefore, banks should examine deposit money banks to and alert systems to update BTA, payment of medical, and of FX to eligible customers for According to him, "The their controls, and what worked henceforth stop accepting customers on the status of school fees.” legitimate purposes. He also said banking industry is willing and for them. instructions from customers their FX requests. It reminded He said while the CBN had the CBN will no longer process ready to carry out this function. Agbaje said, "There is a lot of to transfer capital deposits of banks that a toll-free line had stopped dollar sale to BDCs, or issue new licences for BDC As you are aware, the bank has abuse around FX, so you will N35 million to the designated been set up at the apex bank it did not cancelled their operations in the country, adding very strict compliance measures find out that some of the better CBN account for the purpose to enable bank customers to operating licences, or ban them that all licences being currently in terms of Know Your Customer controlled systems are centralised, of applying for BDC licenses. escalate unresolved complaints from providing FX services to processed, regardless of the stage, (KYC). For us at Access Bank, we while some are decentralised. Similarly, the banking sector related to their FX requests. members of the public. had been suspended. will ensure that all our branches Customers should not panic, regulator, in another circular, The statement added that the According to him, "While The CBN governor said the meet the requirements. there would be availability of directed all banks to set up CBN would continue to closely the dollar sale from CBN had bank would now channel weekly “If you look at all the banks, forex, and the banks will run a teller points at designated monitor banks' conduct and helped in enhancing supply, FX allocations, hitherto meant you would agree with me that very transparent process." branches across the country to compliance with the directive the fact remains that BDCs for BDCs, to commercial banks. the banks have more than fulfil legitimate FX requests for in order to ensure an efficient are empowered to source FX Speaking yesterday during a enough capacity to deal with CBN to Refund Personal Travel Allowance (PTA), FX market for all legitimate from other sources and also virtual media briefing, Chairman, the mandate of the CBN. “If Pending Licencing Business Travel Allowance (BTA), users, adding that any breach to provide various services to Body of Bank CEOs, Herbert we see non-compliance issues, of the directive will be severely members of the public. APC IN JEOPARDY OVER BUNI’S CONTINUED STAY AS NATIONAL CHAIR Buni’s continued stay, both as combine the two of offices of the actions taken by the Buni- judgment dismissing the appeal whatsoever. which he shall be paid for. national chairman of the party governor and national chairman committee since inception. initiated by Eyitayo Jegede "In view of the foregoing “It does not by any scintilla and governor of Yobe State. being executive positions, adding “Accordingly, in view of against the election of Governor constitutional provisions, of imagination, render the Section 183 of the 1999 that it contravened both the the impending ward, local Rotimi Akeredolu. Surprisingly, the question becomes: Is the appointment of Governor Buni constitution unequivocally constitution of APC and the government, states and zonal mischief-makers for obviously appointment of a Governor to as APC Caretaker Committee forbids a sitting governor from country, the 1999 constitution congresses and indeed the nefarious intensions, resort to Chair a Caretaker Committee Chairman incompetent and combining his office with any as amended. national convention (which the misinterpret the said judgment of his political party, same not will not in anyway, affect the other job, both as executive It was against this backdrop, CECPC was primarily set up to vis-a-vis the purport of section being an ‘Executive Office’ in legality or competence of the positions, same as Article 17 that some aides of President do), it is our view that the ward 183 of the 1999 Constitution respect of which he is to be paid APC scheduled Congresses." (iv)of the APC constitution. Muhammadu Buhari called and other congresses scheduled (as amended), as it affects the remuneration, incompetent? Omo Agege stated Interestingly, this aspect of the for the sack of the national for July 31, 2021 be paused, APC Congresses scheduled for “Can it be said that a State For the record, however, judgement, though simplified caretaker committee of the party suspended and put on hold Saturday. Governor, who is the Chairman of Article 17 (iv) of the APC by the Supreme Court justices, and a suspension of tomorrow’s pending the determination of "Without much ado, it the Governors Forum of Nigeria constitution is clear and states has since ruffled feathers in the congresses in the immediate. the legal status of the CECPC to is important to state that is occupying an “Executive that no official of the party shall APC as it has the capacity to also Soon after the judgement, undertake all the activities it so the majority decision of the office”? Can it also be argued at same time hold any executive affect the party in the forthcoming Minister of State for Labour, far has, and indeed jurisdiction Supreme Court in Jegede’s that the President cannot be position in any government November 6 governorship Festus Keyamo (SAN), was the to conduct the congresses and case, emphatically dismissed the appointed as the Chairman of institution. election in Anambra State as first to advise the APC to halt convention. appeal and did not consider the Africa Union? Therefore, the argument that well as the ward congresses of all preparations and conduct of “That the party carefully and issue of the provisions of Section "From the explicit provision of being party chairman is not the party expected to commence congresses nationwide forthwith, dispassionately cause her team of 183 of the 1999 Constitution, Section 183 of the Constitution Saturday nationwide. having analysed the implications legal experts to review, appraise neither did the majority decision of the Federal Republic of an executive position may not For instance, the fate of Senator of the judgment. and give considered opinion on make any comments on the Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), apply here in the case of the Andy Uba, candidate of the APC “The planned congresses the import of the majority and in competence of Governor Mai it is absolutely impossible APC constitution, which states is currently uncertain as the party, across the country slated for this extreme particular the reasonings Mala Buni as the Chairman of and untenable to argue that clearly that, “no official of this as was the case in Zamfara, might weekend must immediately be in the minority judgment of the the APC Caretaker Committee. the provisions of Section 183 party can hold any position in be unable to field any candidate suspended, because it will be an Supreme Court as to the legal The appeal was dismissed on bars a Governor from being any government institution.” for the election. exercise in futility as analysed Status of the CECPC to proceed the ground of competence or a Chairman or member of a In other words, even if And despite the party’s above. The competence of further with any activity in the lack thereof for the non-joinder Caretaker Committee set up by supporters of Buni were seeming attempt to brush Governor Mai Mala Buni to name of the party or otherwise. of a necessary party to the suit his or her political party. interpreting Nigeria’s off the grave implications of organise the congresses has “That option, including at the lower court. “More so, the position of constitution upside down, the judgment, top echelons of been called to question by the painful ones be recommended "It is, therefore, disingenuous, the Chairman of a Caretaker they cannot do the same to the APC are worried of the Supreme Court. to perfect the party leadership unsound and mischievous Committee cannot by any sense the party’s constitution, which potential minefield it has set “The NEC of the party can in the eyes of the law with legal to attempt to misinform the of imagination, logic or simple states that no official of its itself up against. urgently meet and consider capacity to do what it ought reading public of what was common sense be classified as a shall hold any position in any The majority decision of and reconstitute the CECPC to do. That the team also not the ratio decidendi of the being a salaried Executive office. government. That, of course, the Supreme Court delivered to exclude, not only Governor recommend measures to perfect judgment of the court. Even if "It is important at this point to is considered clear enough. by Justice Emmanuel Agim, Buni, but anyone holding matters in respect of pending the apex court had considered restate the fact, that the Caretaker By implication, if the APC clearly held that the failure of any executive position in any elections and matters to rescue the provisions of Section 183 Committee was duly constituted goes ahead and holds the the appellants to include Buni government establishment as challenged pending processes. of the 1999 Constitution, the by the NEC of the party and as a party was fatal to their stipulated in Article 17 of the “That Time being of the majority panel would still have given a specific mandate to put congresses, it might turn out case, because all the issues in APC Constitution,” Keyamo essence, very limited timelines dismissed the appeal. necessary measures in place to an effort in futility. the appeal revolved around said. be set for each of the proposed "Having established the above conduct a seamless elective Unfortunately, the first Buni and ought to have been Apart from Keyamo, two steps. One cannot put something point, it is necessary to proceed National Convention. casualty of this poor choice by made a party. senior officials in the presidency, on nothing and expect it to to clear the gross misconception "There is no law under our the APC might be the party’s Although Justice Mary Odili, the Special Adviser to the stand. of the provisions of section 183 legal jurisprudence that bars or candidate in the Anambra State in a dissenting minority verdict, President on Political Matters, “Finally, this being a Supreme of the 1999 Constitution. prohibits a Governor who is governorship election, Senator upheld Jegede’s appeal that the Senator Babafemi Ojudu and Court judgement, we should be "The sole question that begs a member of a political party Andy Uba. nomination of Akeredolu, which Senior Special Assistant to thankful that it has come very for consideration is whether the and won elections under the While some members have was signed by Buni was not valid the President on Niger Delta early that it will guide our Party appointment of Governor Mai political party from carrying out conceded Uba’s fate to time, under Section 183 of the 1999 Affairs, Senator have to victory in 2023 as we mind Mala Buni as the APC Caretaker specific assignments on-behalf of others, who were convinced Constitution. also joined the call for the Buni carefully the legal Status of our Committee Chairman offends the his party. How this will amount about the position of the law Thus, many of APC’s big wigs committee to be disbanded. systems, guiding us on avoidable provisions of Section 183 of the to holding an Executive office is in the case have concluded that couldn’t believe how close they Ojudu and Enang, in a actions as we approach the 2023 1999 Constitution (as amended)? beyond every stretch of human the APC has no candidate in came to losing Ondo to the PDP joint statement, also said the tape to brace successfully,” the "In answering the above comprehension. the Anambra election. and that the only saving grace judgement appeared to have statement read. question, it is pertinent to "In the light of the foregoing “Let’s forget it, we are only was that, the appellant – either swept the carpet of legality But the Deputy Senate reproduce the provisions of exposition, it is humbly and wasting our time. The Supreme by providence or commission – off the committee, rendering President, Senator Ovie Omo Section 183 of the Constitution of firmly stated that Section 183 Court has spoken, so, what failed to include Buni as a party it illegal, null, void and of no Agege, has objected to the the Federal Republic of Nigeria, of the Constitution of the Federal in the suit. legal capacity to undertake any position of the aides of the 1999 (as amended) as follows: Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as do we want again? All what Already, the APC in Zamfara action on behalf and in the name president and others. the governor shall not, during amended) only bars a Governor Senator Ovie Omo-Agege State has taken the party to court of the party. In his legal opinion, he said, the period when he holds office, from holding Executive positions is saying is rubbish,” a top asking it to declare as illegal, the They said it has also brought "Wednesday 28th, July, 2021, the hold any other executive office or like being a Minister, or any member of the party and fact that Buni has continued to to question, the legality of all Supreme Court delivered its paid employment in any capacity other executive positions for government, held last night. FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 • THISDAY 11 12 FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 • THISDAY 13 14 THISDAY • FRIDAY, JULY 30, 2021

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA COMMENT Email [email protected] A VOICE TO TRAFFICKING V ICTIMS AND SURVIVORS Franz Celestin canvasses the need to create human rights-based and victim-centred anti-trafficking interventions

n 30 July 2021, we commemorate the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) to build World Day Against Trafficking in Persons. and strengthen the capacity of state and non-state actors The plight of millions of children, women, across the board to provide protection support using a men suffering coercion, exploitation and victim-centred approach. humiliation is real. Driven by the demand Nigeria has made laudable efforts through the work for cheap labour and commercial sex, of NAPTIP to counter trafficking in persons with the Otrafficking rings across borders and within countries take implementation of new policies and interventions like the advantage of economic, social and political vulnerabilities creation of a new National Action Plan against Human to exploit their victims. Trafficking, operationalization of the national referral The number of persons who have been trafficked is on mechanism through the development of identification the rise everywhere, and Nigeria is not an exception. As and reporting tools aimed at ensuring that there is a a country of origin, transit and destination for victims standardized approach to victim identification, referral of human trafficking, the giant of Africa records the and reporting. In addition, the creation of multiple state highest number of human trafficking victims. In 2018, the task forces on human trafficking and “legal hubs” for Walk Free Foundation estimated that almost 1.4 million trafficked persons has enabled access to justice and individuals were living in modern slavery in Nigeria. strengthened cross border coordination. Research also shows that two-thirds of Nigerian victims We recall the commitments made by the federal of trafficking are victims of domestic human trafficking. government of Nigeria in the Global Compact for Safe, Criminals of such a highly profitable business model have Orderly and Regular Migration to facilitate the access devised ways to hide their traces and increase gains. of trafficked persons to justice, to allow them to safely This year’s World Day against Trafficking in Persons report experiences without fear of detention, deportation theme “Victims’ Voices Lead the Way” highlights the or penalty, and to provide migrants who have become importance of listening to and learning from survivors trafficking victims with protection, assistance and redress. of human trafficking. Sadly, often unheard, victims and We call on government partners, civil society organisa- survivors’ voices are key to developing and implementing tions and the UN community in Nigeria to: one, give a strategies, policies, and measures to prosecute perpetra- voice to trafficking victims and survivors – make them tors. In worst cases, they face re-victimisation and punish- powerful agents of change in our societies. Let us benefit ment for seeking help for the crimes they were forced to from their experience and knowledge to create human commit by their traffickers. We call upon our partners to rights-based and victim-centred anti-trafficking interven- put victims and survivors at the centre of our collective tions. responses, learning from their stories and gaining inspira- Two, enhance international, regional and local coopera- tion from their courage and resilience. tion – to monitor migration routes to prevent trafficking, The ongoing pandemic has exacerbated vulnerabilities collaborate in cross-border investigation and prosecution of potential victims of trafficking, made them more of perpetrators, and to provide protection and assistance susceptible to exploitation, and brought to the surface to those in need at any stage of their migration journey. existing societal inequalities. With the attention of govern- Three, identify, refer, and assist victims of trafficking ments focused on how to strengthen the health systems promptly – to protect their rights and dignity and foster and cope with soaring loss of jobs, the victims are often their psychosocial recovery and reintegration into society. left with no chance to be heard. Provision for essential Four, implement a whole-of-society approach to services and support mechanisms has been extremely address trafficking in persons –reaffirming the key role limited as countries struggle to respond to all challenges of frontline actors, including victims and survivors-led posed by COVID-19. initiatives, to inform effective responses to the needs of At the International Organization for Migration (IOM), trafficking victims. we are concerned about the severity and dimensions Human trafficking is a crime and a violation of human of this issue. This is why our counter-trafficking work HUMAN TRAFFICKING IS A CRIME AND A rights. strongly focuses on providing assistance and protection to VIOLATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS. IT HAS It has no place in our world. Victims and survivors victims of human trafficking including other vulnerable must be heard. migrants and conducting awareness-raising activities. NO PLACE IN OUR WORLD. VICTIMS AND Celestin is IOM Chief of Mission IOM works closely with the National Agency for SURVIVORS MUST BE HEARD

APC NATIONAL CHAIR: WHO WEARS THE CROWN?

Senator Sani Musa has what it takes to lead the party, argues Olakunle Abdusalam

he final countdown to the accusations and criticisms dwell mainly scheming for the party’s nomination for to the entrenchment of largely credible APC Congresses is on. The on the person of President Muhammadu the presidency. His position and the sup- elections in Nigeria by the Independent commentaries, reports and Buhari. port he is garnering at the moment will National Electoral Commission (INEC) in opinions circulating in the But time pressure will force the party to certainly raise his confidence and those of 2015 and 2019. If Musa has the opportu- media especially on who will finalize ongoing negotiations and shifting his supporters, yet it is hardly comfort- nity to lead the party he will benefit from become the All Progressives alliances. The most probable serious able considering that the party have not the still high performance and acceptance TCongress (APC) National Chairman will candidates for the party leadership are yet decided on its zoning formula and of technology in our electoral process, as hasten the polarization or coalition of already visible in the political landscape. this has made many of the aspirants yet he will introduce for the party far reach- political forces and the composition of the Until the aspirants officially declare their to formally announce their decision to ing innovations and more digital-oriented teams for the party’s two highest political candidature, the final political equation run for the office. policies that will make a difference in and government positions respectively. will remain uncertain. What will further With all the permutations going round, political party administration in Nigeria. The initial surveys on the race of who delay the polarization process are the Senator Sani Musa seems to have an But whoever becomes the national occupies the office of the National Chair- rivalries, differences, self-importance, and upper lead in the initial surveys. Musa chairman will inherit some of the sins man have shown how former governors, the conflicting principles of the principal stands as the man to beat in this early and shortcomings of the Adams Oshiom- senators and party chieftains are schem- players. race. He is determined to run. He is hole’s administration even if he was not ing and pushing for support to actualise The likes of Umaru Tanko Almakura, not identified with any interest group involved in these transgressions. their ambitions. George Akume, , Ali within the party, he has good credentials The thousands of victims of nomina- Bitter and deep differences have rocked Modu Sheriff and former Abdulazeez for the position, a remarkable record of tion abuses, and corruption during both the administration and opposition Yari, Salihu Mustapha, Mohammed accomplishments as a business executive, the Adam’s administration will most quarters in our country’s political Danjuma Goje, Isah Yuguda and most technocrat and legislator; a strong-willed likely welcome a new leader that is not a journey. The political parties are violating recently Mohammed Sani Musa have and unbiased person, and he has a former governor because of their concern democratic procedures and the leadership all indicated their interest to lead the hands-on style of leadership, implicit for the way former governors that were are fighting each other. The Peoples party for the next four years. At the influence and judicious use of resources once party chairmen acted with high- Democratic Party (PDP) considered early stages names of Almakura, Adamu wherever he administered. handedness and ruthless mis-governance. the main opposition party under the and Akume popped up as leading the Senator Musa is the serving senator The downtrodden members of the party present regime, has failed to unite the pack of former governors over the other representing Niger East Senatorial District may draw more support for a non-former various opposition groups and critics of opponents. Not until the name of Senator in the ninth Senate; he has excellent pro- governor to clinch the office. the administration. The PDP no longer Mohammed Sani Musa appeared and fessional and educational credentials. He Even with all the formidable odds looms large as the most viable opposition became the dark horse. has passion for ICT and digital technol- against most of the party leadership party, it has not been combative as the As at the moment Senators Tanko ogy. To his credit, he contributed to the getting elected as its stands Senator Musa opposition party as the party itself is Almakura and Sani Musa seem to enjoy development and promotion of Electronic seems to be a strong and hard-to-beat neck deep in leadership conflict. Instead a wide range of support, but looking at Voting for the first time in Nigeria, which candidate. What might make a big of being critical of the APC administra- various scenarios Senator Musa is better brought about the introduction of Card difference between victory and defeat is tion in matters of policy direction, the placed especially because he does not Reader and Permanent Voter Card (PVC), the party’s zoning formula. party seems to have been liberal in their belong to any of the interesting blocks the revolutionary steps instrumental Abdusalam wrote from Lagos 16 FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 •THISDAY THISDAY • FRIDAY, JULY 30, 2021 15 EDITORIAL THE VULNERABILITY OF RURAL DWELLERS

The authorities are not doing enough to secure the countryside

he spate of attacks on rural communi- tion. Since it is impossible to carry out farming ties in Northwest Nigeria has gradually activities under an insecure environment, it is also brought the average citizen to the no surprise that domestic agricultural production Hobbesian state where life has become has been stifled while access to regional markets nasty, brutish, and short. That opera- remain blocked. tives of the various security agencies usually arrive scenes of attacks only orced to flee their communities, many of these after many people had been killed has people are now being further traumatised to only heightened the sense of foreboding. Meanwhile, learn that their tormentors are considered more Tthe inability to bring attackers to justice, according to important than them. For many Nigerians, Amnesty International, only helps to fuel dangerous Fparticularly those in the North-east, life has never been conspiracy theories that escalate the violence. It is so brutal. With the maimed, the orphans, the widows, therefore incumbent on the authorities to find solution widowers and the tides of refugees in IDPs camps to the growing lawlessness across the country but most practically left to their own devices, the preoccupation particularly in the north. with making some killers happy is not lost on them. The failure to protect the people is put squarely Inmates of Kuchingworo and Durumi camps in Abuja at the doorsteps of the federal government that recently threatened to join Boko Haram should federal has lost the capacity to rein in sundry cartels of government continue to romance terrorists and ignore gunmen who now terrorise rural areas of the their victims. This followed a revelation that hundreds of country. “The Nigerian authorities have left rural ‘repentant’ Boko Haram insurgents who had completed communities at the mercy of rampaging gunmen”, the de-radicalisation programme would be reintegrated said an Amnesty into the communities. With the federal government A GOVERNMENT THAT International report expending huge resources on these insurgents, their CANNOT GUARANTEE THE published last year. victims who have been condemned to the IDP camps SECURITY OF LIFE AND “Terrifying attacks now wonder whether their lot would not be better if PROPERTY FOR CITIZENS on rural communi- they also carry arms. It is criminal to ignore these most AND RESIDENTS IN A ties in the north of THISDAY vulnerable citizens and then begin to pamper those who COUNTRY HAS FAILED Nigeria have been EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU put them in the situation they are in. DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA going on for years,” MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO We align with the call on the federal govern- added Osai Ojigho, DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU ment to urgently deploy security forces into the director of Amnesty International Nigeria. “The CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI hinterlands, including consistent aerial surveil- EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN ongoing failure of security forces to take sufficient MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI lance to track down the purveyors of the carnage steps to protect villagers from these predictable THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE and consequently end the wanton waste of lives attacks is utterly shameful,” she added. and property. Government at the federal and state To make matters worse, where members of levels should also muster the courage and political these marauding gangs are arrested, the impunity THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED will to halt the incursion of non-state actors who in the justice system works to set them free. This EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA have now decided to make the education space GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, gives the impression of a conspiratorial nexus ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI unsafe by the alarming rate at which they storm between the invaders and rogue operatives DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, schools to abduct students for ransom. The urgent ANTHONY OGED ENGBE within the security agencies. For most of these DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI imperative therefore is for President Muhammadu cases, that the perpetrators have never been SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH Buhari to realise that a government that cannot ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI brought to justice leaves rural communities feeling CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI guarantee the security of life and property for completely abandoned to their fate. The impact on DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO citizens and residents in a country has failed. their means of livelihood compounds the situa- TO SEND EMAIL: first [email protected]

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

he Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline, otherwise known One more benefit is that “it has significant job creation potential both in the country. This is after reducing gas flaring in the Niger Delta area as AKK, promises to be a game changer in the economic direct and indirect, while fostering the development and utilization of of our country. development of the country, especially Northern Nigeria. local skills and manpower, technology transfer and promotion of local Being part of the strategic 4,128 kilometre Trans-Saharan gas pipeline Its game-changing impact is encompassed in its designed manufacturing.” While flagging off the AKK project 13 months ago on designed to deliver Nigerian gas to the European Union markets purpose of delivering Natural Gas for multiple uses. June 30, 2020, President Muhammadu Buhari emphasised one of its via Algeria, its intra-African economic and technical cooperation status The gas pipeline spans a length of 614 kilometres, critical benefits thus, “ When completed, the AKK Gas Pipeline Project is equally of immense value toward integrating African economies. It Trunning from Ajaokuta to Kano. The project cost is estimated at $2.8 will provide gas for generation of power and for gas-based industries is believed that the pipeline will compete favourably with other gas billion. And it is a segment of the Trans-Nigeria Gas Pipeline (TNGP) which would facilitate the development of new industries and also the pipelines which feed the West European market. and the Trans Saharan gas pipeline project. revival of moribund industries along transit towns in Kogi State, Abuja The scope of the project shows that the total length of the Trans-Sa- The AKK represents a practical manifestation of the concept of public (FCT), Niger State, Kaduna State and Kano State.” haran gas pipeline from the Nigerian start-point to the terminal in Spain sector collaborating with the private sector in a partnership to achieve The details on the power generation aspect mentioned by President is 4,400km. The segment within Nigeria is 1,037 kilometres; the portion a major national goal. The project is being implemented through a Buhari indicate that the power generation will be at three new thermal in the Republic of Niger is 853 kilometres while its length in Algeria Build and Transfer (BT) Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. The power generation plants which will be located in Abuja, Kaduna and is 2,310 kilometres plus 220 kilometres from the Algerian border to the contractor is providing 100 per cent funding. Kano, with 1,350 MW, 900 MW and 2,350 MW capacity respectively. terminal in Spain. Its initial cost was estimated at 10 billion USD. The pipeline project transverses four states namely Kogi, Niger, The pipeline “would enable the injection of 2.2 billion square cubic The African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) says Kaduna, Kano and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). It will pass by feet of gas daily into the domestic market. And, as stated earlier, it will on its website that, “It (the pipeline) will have an estimated annual Zaria, an important city the inhabitants of which will equally benefit facilitate additional power generation capacity of 3,600MW.” capacity of 30 billion cubic litres of natural gas.” For Nigeria it means from the over 2.2 billion cubic feet of gas it will deliver daily for When these three power generation plants become operational, some another pipeline for earning foreign exchange to finance development in domestic consumption. of the factories that were forced to scale down their operations or shut Africa’s biggest economy and largest democracy. The AKK is a game-changing project given the countless benefits it down completely due to poor on-site and national grid power supplies, AUDA-NEPAD explains other dimensions of the project, ”The will bring to Nigerians. The promoters of the project said in a document are likely to come back to life. And this implies the return of economic pipeline will be built through a partnership between the Nigerian that it “will provide gas for generation of power and for gas-based activities, with all the benefits that brings. National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and Algeria’s Sonatrach, industries which would facilitate the development of new industries.” Yet another value from the AKK project is its potential to support together holding 90% of the shares, and the Niger National Oil Another benefit is that, “It will ensure the revival of moribund the development of industries based on petrochemicals, fertilizer Company holding 10%. The pipeline will ensure closer co-operation and industries along transit towns in Kogi State, Abuja (FCT), Niger State, production, methanol processing and more gas-based industries that are integration between neighbouring countries.” Kaduna State and Kano State.” capable of generating job opportunities and boosting economic growth Salisu Na’inna Dambatta , Abuja FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 • THISDAY 17 18 THISDAY ˾FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG Email: [email protected] POLITICS 08114495324 SMS ONLY Olatunde’s One Year of Dynamism as Clerk of the N’Assembly Adesoro Tolu Austen, Special Adviser on Media and Labour to the Clerk to the National Assembly celebrates some notable achievements of his principal

ne year ago, precisely on the years now, the budgetary allocations to the eve of 17th of July 2020, the National Assembly has remained static, in National Assembly Service spite of the increasing huge administrative Commission (NASC), made a cost of running the system. shattering announcement on But, the Clerk to the National Assembly Onetwork news across the electronic media, has been up to the task of making things that sent shock waves to those who did work, given the known financial crunch that not believe in administrative dynamism has befallen the National Assembly. and paradigmatic shift in the leadership of Training programmes for the benefit the National Assembly. Like wild fire the of qualified staff have been going on, the social media went agog to echo it louder welfare of staff and aides has been a constant and clearer across the globe that a new issue on the dashboard of the current sheriff has indeed arrived to take charge of management. the bureaucratic arm of one of sub Saharan In order to professionalise and expand African most populous parliament. The the system, the Clerk is putting machineries pronouncement laid to rest the high voltage in place to establish new directorates and drama, maneuvers and avoidable power departments, so that staff can have proper struggle that engulfed the bureaucracy of the work schedules. National Assembly which many observed As a renowned architect with the highest with trepidation. It was a defining moment professional honour in Nigeria, Ojo Ola- for the NASC as it summoned their nation- tunde Amos is finalising elastic and attrac- alistic nature and zeal, conquered parochial tive housing programmes for the benefit of interest of few in favour of primary collec- staff; his relationship with PASAN has been tive interest very cordial as against the past, as a result of But, those who believe in scientific and the open door approach and general flexible magical leadership, in running the high- administrative mechanism in place today. est bureaucratic system of the nation’s His dynamism and pragmatism has legislative body, jumped up to celebrate necessitated the most cordial relationship and welcome the official elevation of Ojo between him and the political leadership of Olatunde Amos, to the Acting Clerkship of dling of the industrial action declared by went ahead without any promptings from the National Assembly. What of the extraor- the National Assembly. Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria members of PASAN and legislative aides, to dinary working relationship he has delib- In picking the first ever professional (PASAN) early in the year, an historic trash out critical outstanding allowances. erately established with the Chairman and architect to run the affairs of the National As- Memorandum of Understanding (Mo0U) Under the watch of Ojo Olatunde Amos, members of the National Assembly Service sembly, as the Chief Accounting Officer, the has been generated, which has brought for the first time in the history of the Commission (NASC), a great development Engr. Ahmed Kadi Amshi led National As- peace and stability to the National Assembly. National Assembly bureaucracy, financial that has in no small measure contributed sembly Service Commission, saw something Talking about inspired leadership, coming loopholes were blocked, via drastic cut in to the industrial harmony and peace being terrific about Ojo Olatunde Amos, which his from Ojo Olatunde Amos, within the first overhead costs, in order to meet up with enjoyed in the National Assembly today? ardent critics could not fathom. God truly six months of assuming the headship of pressing staff demands. Talking about dynamism in leadership, has reason why he created man in different the National Assembly bureaucracy, he It must quickly be said that for over 10 Ojo Olatunde Amos, has imbibed creativity, ways for different purposes with divergent confidence and pragmatic strategies in gifts which Ojo is not an exemption. piloting the affairs of the National Assembly And given the torrents of opposition to the in the last one year. candidature of Ojo Olatunde Amos by those Why Buni Should Step Indeed, the staff and legislative aides of who were determined absolutely to rob the National Assembly have seen renewed and deny him the Clerkship to the National strength, genuine ambition, persistence, Assembly, his eventual emergence proved Down Now capacity and behavioral courage in leader- the wise saying that: “Any man destined to Kayode Ajulo, an Abuja-based lawyer and former National ship, especially during the last Labour wear a crown must definitely wear it at the unrest within the National Assembly. appointed time.” Secretary of justifies his call on the Acting National The point being made very clear here, Apart from the fact that Ojo Olatunde Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Governor Mai Mala is that Ojo is a man of vision, who knows Amos, is a record breaker being the first ar- Buni of Yobe State to quit his role as chief executive of the ruling where he wants to go, and how he will chitect that has succeeded, to the top echelon navigate his way to his desired destination. of the National Assembly, he had been an t’s no news that the Supreme Court Labour Party, I am quite aware and it is In rainfall, windstorm or sunshine, he stands incredible man of excellence, energy and by a split of 4-3 dismissed the petition unassailable that the National Chairman firm to defend what he believes as right vision right from his elementary school days. filed by the People’s Democratic and the National Secretary are the alter before God, humanity and the society. Ojo was created a leader who has never Party’s (PDP) aspirant for the 2020 egos of a political party chartered with the No stakeholder within the National hidden the passion and commitment in IOndo State governorship election, Eyitayo day-to-day running of the party. Assembly today will say that the sitting distinguishing endowments demonstrated Jegede (SAN) against the incumbent It is therefore incontrovertible that the Clerk to the National Assembly has not in service with impeccable credentials and Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Oluwarotimi continuous stay of the Governor as Chief dramatised and practicalised passion, decorum. Akeredolu (SAN) and the All Progressives Executive Officer of the All Progressives empathy, decisiveness and uncommon It was via a onetime dynamic American Congress. Congress runs contrary to provision of optimism in his approach to the health of the President, who was an extraordinarily bril- Without prejudice to the ratio decidendi the Constitution and as such may be an National Assembly in the last one year. This liant mind, and passionately patriotic, John of the majority decision of the court, it is albatross on the party, as all he had done has earned him the nick name “Mr. Alert” Quincy Adams, that we have this endlessly imperative to state pressistimo and very before would be null and void, including considering the waves of arrears paid since motivated words: “If your actions inspire clearly too that with the unanimous posi- nomination of candidates within the he assumed duty. others to dream more, learn more to do more tion of the Apex Court that it appears the period of his so called Leadership of the When a great American patriot, John and become more, you are a leader.” actions of the All Progressives Congress party. Fuhrman said that:” Once you take action, Perhaps, the Chairman and members of in permitting a sitting governor as the In- In lending my two cents, it is apposite even if it’s a single, small step, you have set the National Assembly Service Commission, terim Chairman of the party is in violation to assuage and hint the leadership of the things in motion. “ Architect Ojo Olatunde had the words of ex-President John Quincy of the Constitution of the Federal Republic party by reminding same of the decision of Amos, who has taken more than a single Adams in mind in October 2020, When they of Nigeria, it is my sincere view that the Lord Denning of over five decades in the step in running the bureaucracy of the resolved to cement the Clerkship of Ojo Interim Chairman of the All Progressive case Macfoy v. UAC Limited (1961) 3 ALL National Assembly, since July 2020, must be Olatunde Amos, by making him the substan- Congress should immediately step down. E.R where the Learned Jurist held that: “If commended for taking drastic actions where tive Clerk to the National Assembly. My humble but cosmic review of the an act is void, then it is in law a nullity. It is necessary; and for setting things in motion In trying to situate or describe the one judgment comes with an indication that not only bad but incurably bad. There is no for greater harvest soon to come to the staff year of purposeful, dynamic and inspiring the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni need for an order of court to set it aside.” of the National Assembly. leadership of Ojo Olatunde Amos, in the has to vacate his seat, as the Chairman of Whichever way this issue is being tilted, Given the difficult unprecedented finan- saddle at the National Assembly, it is right APC with immediate effect. permitting a Governor of a state to hold cial challenges cum circumstances, that came to say that, since July 2020, his actions have The provision of Section 183 of the 1999 other executive office may create cravings to play within the National Assembly, in the inspired his colleagues and staff to dream Constitution of the Federal Republic of in some governors to become the State last one year, it is clear without any form more, to become more responsive to the Nigeria (as amended) is clear and unam- Chairman of their political parties as being of ambiguity, that Ojo Olatunde Amos’s challenges confronting the nation’s highest biguous to the effect that “The Governor recently tinkered by some of them. sojourn, so far, has been decorated with Legislative body. shall not, during the period when he holds In order to nip this looming inglorious imaginative, creative, intuitive and respon- This fact could be filtered out in the office, hold any other executive office or kismet in the bud, I thereby admonish that sive leadership. multiple strategies he has initiated in carry- paid employment in any capacity whatso- the acting Chairman of the All Progres- ing the entire staff of the National Assembly ever.” sives Congress should immediately step -Adesoro is the Special Adviser on media along. As a former National Secretary of down as a stitch in time saves nine. and Labour to the Clerk to the National How do l mean? In his proactive han- Assembly. THISDAY ˾FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 19

PERSPECTIVE Reviewing the Statesmanship of Senator Theodore Orji Why U.S Warns Buhari is Drifting Eddie Onuzuruike commends Senator Theodore Toward Authoritarianism A. Orji for his firm assurance to bow out from public service after the 9th Senate ending in 2023 Chido Nwangwu, Publisher, USAfricaonline. he life of man may be phased regime elongation, seeking to change com draws attention to the alarm from Western into 3, 4, or more stages depend- the constitution in the scandalous Third ing on the school of thought. Term Agenda that many worked against governments and international human rights Thomas Manson postulated 12 and made the National Assembly stagesT in his work, the human odys- uproarious then. organisations against the Nigerian military’s sey. Other notable authorities like Hear him as he argued and bemoaned Mark Manson and Integris Health, an his predicament with Atiku, his role in deadly crackdowns on protesters Oklahoma based thinktank projected deputy. In a book by Dr Fresh Onuoha differently. For the sake of this article, let titled ‘Atiku is the Answer,’ page 114, a plantain hawker, gari distributor or us work with the infancy stage, teenage, Obasanjo said, ‘I left power 20 years ago, groundnut seller graduates as a software youth, adulthood and the aged. I left Mubarak in office, I left Mugabe coding engineer, or graduates as a Zo- Nature has made it that man should in office, I left Eyadema in office, I left ologist, like Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, who retire, play lesser active roles, by teach- Omar Bongo, and even Paul Biya and I served, almost, as a reluctant President. ing, mentoring and directing others. came back and they are still in power, He was uncomfortable with deploying From a rich observatory point, people and I just did eight years and you are power in the face of potential complica- in present day Nigeria, especially the asking me to go, why?” tions and problems. Dr. Jonathan wanted adult and the aged find retirement scary. Contrary to all these fears of the sit- to get along with everybody, and was Even those in the civil and public ser- tight mentality and despite the distrac- afraid of Buhari’s threats during the elec- vices who hitherto had a well-structured tions, it is cheering that some Nigerians tion campaigns. Now; here we are! retirement template now crave for more are still principled and disciplined, Sadly, the same divide-and-rule power active roles even when it is obvious resolute in mending this disorientation mongers from the far “north” and their that they are not physically and medi- of sit-tight mentality, even when ir- pawns in the “south” want to mislead cally fit. Look at the spate of changes in relevant. and ruin his reputation by pushing and retirement ages of judges and teachers. One of such men today is Senator T.A. calling on him to run again as president The growing trend can be as a result of Orji who has been a constant personal- of Nigeria after a controversial and unpaid and unsteady pensions, disloy- ity in national affairs and like the old certainly corrupt Presidency! alty and faithless followership coupled wine is seasoned enough to chart a new Evidently, the goal is to divide the with challenging financial realities and direction. Coming from a staunch civil unity of those who insist that for equity not having reliable successors to fall service background, he served as Chief he influential magazine, Foreign and proven competence and capacity back on where necessary. of Staff for eight years, Governor for Policy, established since 1970, that the Igbo geo-political zone should In the history of Nigeria, the sixties, eight years, now in the Senate for six first reported on July 27, 2021 get the consensus harmonization to seventies and eighties saw youths years and still counting. You can say, 22 that some U.S. lawmakers bring forth the next president of Nigeria leading in Nigeria. Recall Matthew years of uninterrupted political service Tare holding-up a proposed sale of the in 2023! Mbu, Okotie Eboh, who were youthful and leadership of his people. He has attack helicopters to Nigeria due to It is not the same distortion of what ministers in the First Republic. M. I. Ok- sworn to bow out after the 9th Senate “mounting concerns about the Nigerian has been spun as an “Igbo president/ para, Premier of Eastern region and his ending in 2023. government’s human rights record as its presidency.” counterparts in the north and west were His recent activities are indicators of military grapples with multiple security An Igbo as president, will be drawing relatively young. Ironsi who emerged a fulfilled man exiting the scene and crises at once.” from the wells of equity and because of as the first military leader, followed by stepping into the super statesmanship Operationally, that position is bipar- proven capacity and identifiable invest- Yakubu Gowon, , category, practically bowing out when tisan. Consequently, the top Democrat ments and residences in the Nigeria were scarcely 50 years old, the ovation is loudest. and Republican on the Senate Foreign project, otherwise, it will prove IPOB especially Gowon who married in the On June 30, 2021, he was in Port Relations Committee have “delayed saw the game ahead. State House in Lagos as a military leader. Harcourt with his entourage as the guest clearing a proposed sale of 12 AH-1 Foreign Policy magazine points, too, Sadly, gerontocracy took root and has of Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers Cobra attack helicopters and accompa- to the fact that Buhari’s “government refused to shift grounds even with the State who invited him to inaugurate nying defense systems to the Nigerian is besieged by multiple security chal- ‘Not Too Young to Run policy of the some of his multiple projects that have military, pausing a deal worth some $875 lenges, including a jihadist insurgency. Buhari-led government. Even Obasanjo earned him the sobriquet of Mr. Projects. million.” Nigeria is on the front lines in the who was widely acclaimed for being Not far from his Rivers State encounter, The FP adds that the behind-the- battle against Boko Haram, one of the the first military officer to hand over he was at his constituency where one of scenes controversy over the proposed world’s deadliest terrorist groups, and unconditionally to civilians regretted his ardent followers, Hon. Darlington arms sale illustrates a broader debate plays a role in U.S. and international ef- when he surreptitiously worked on Nwokocha, Representing Isi Ala Ngwa among Washington policymakers over forts to roll back extremist groups in the North and South Federal Constituency how to balance national security with Sahel region of West Africa. But Western who lined out projects to be inaugurated human rights objectives.” governments and international human and named the legislative building he Also, it is important to note that the rights organisations have ramped up constructed after Senator T.A. Orji. powerful U.S. lawmakers want “to push their criticisms of the Nigerian govern- One of such men today In his speech in Port Harcourt, he the Biden administration to rethink U.S. ment, particularly in the wake of its ban is Senator T.A. Orji who thanked the Rivers strongman for the relations with Africa’s most populous on Twitter, systemic corruption issues, recognition and urged him to continue country amid overarching concerns that and the Nigerian military’s role in has been a constant his good works of project multiplica- Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari deadly crackdowns on protesters after tion, fierce protection of his people and is drifting toward authoritarianism….” widespread demonstrations against personality in national touching lives at home and abroad. He Until the past few weeks, even in the police brutality last year.” affairs and like the old added new names to Wike as action face of brutal and steamy evidences Buhari governed as a military dicta- governor and Governor Ho-ha, a man and actions unacceptable to democratic tor in the 1980s and imposes that same wine is seasoned enough who is brave enough to say the truth, no societies, the multiple autocratic over- temperamental fuse and shortness of matter whose ox is gored but harped on reach by Buhari, a retired General who spirit to issue which, necessarily, must to chart a new direction. Wike to intensify efforts in grooming a led the overthrow of a democratically- allow a thousand flowers to bloom! successor who will continue in his speed elected government of Nigeria in His henchmen and agencies of security Coming from a staunch and energy of founding more projects December 1983 (of President Shehu and enforcement traumatize those who civil service background, so that the people of Rivers State now Shagari and Alex Ekwueme). In fact, as disagree with his nepotistic, insular, used to performance will not fall into an a matter of law, the overthrow of any inadequate and, it must be said, incom- he served as Chief of antithetical mentality and tempt Wike democratically elected government in petent composition of the majority of into regrets in retirement or push him Nigeria is a treasonable offense! But as appointments, tedious limiting of the Staff for eight years, into dreaming of a comeback. we all know and have seen Nigeria is a rights of Nigerians. Governor for eight years, For Senator Orji, the political night- country where impunity and raw power Without any doubt, retired Gen. Bu- mares may not be much as he already determines who is right however briefly hari continues to deal with Nigerians in now in the Senate for six has a successor in Rt. Hon. Chinedum the intoxication of power might be! a manner that is reflective his instinctive Orji now the Speaker of Abia State Essentially, for these giddy, corrupt disdain and disregard for freedom of years and still counting. House of Assembly who is doing won- folks who, in amusing religious piety expressions and diversity in the compo- derfully well in his sworn political mis- drenched in sheer hypocrisy and un- sition of the covenants, protocols and You can say, 22 years of sion to make the best of our disgruntled relenting condescensions toward the representational givens of any modern, uninterrupted political youths of Nigeria in making a legislative truly hard-working folks, it’s their say of multiethnic country. foray. His residence and office have finality who should govern — after they Will Biden, the U.S Senate and service and leadership of become Mecca of sorts as they throng decide when and especially If…. Congress awaken to the realistic events these places for solace and survival. It does not matter what those who inside Nigeria or dull through what his people. He has sworn We plead that many of our leaders daily, wake up before the cock crows has become a choice between a loaded, to bow out after the 9th should emulate this nationalistic gesture at dawn, to trade and create and toil potential catastrophe or a titanic struggle of Senator Orji making the political and hustle until that son or daughter of for a perilous redemption? Senate ending in 2023 waters navigable for the youths. 20 FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 •THISDAY THISDAY ˾FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 21

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email [email protected] BUSINESSWORLD 08056356325 RATES AS AT JULY 29,2021 MONEY MARKET REPO S & P INDEX S & P INDEX EXCHANGE RATE OBB 27.50% CALL 4% INDEX LEVEL 535.12% 1/4 TO DATE 0.40% N411.50/1US DOLLAR* OVERNIGHT 28.75 % 1-MONTH 6% 1-DAY 0.13% YEAR TO DATE -20.10% *AS AT LAST FRIDAY 3-MONTH 10% MONTH-TO-DATE 0.40%

NGX VISITS NCC… L -R: Head, Primary Markets, Nigerian Exchange Limited, Mr. Tony Ibeziako; Director, Legal and Regulatory Services, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Ms. Josephine Amuwa; Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Exchange Limited, Mr. Temi Popoola; Director, Public Affairs, NCC, Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde; and Head, Government Relations, Nigerian Exchange Limited, Mr. Soji Akimuele during a courtesy visit to the Nigerian Communications Commission in Abuja… recently Despite Local Content Policy, Nigeria Loses $4bn, 25,000 Jobs Annually to Foreign Ship Chandlers Eromosele Abiodun items, chemicals, galley equip- shipping vessel and its crew. local operators. that need essential provisions ECONOMY ment and supplies, charts and A ship chandler supplies all For instance, a ship of 5,000 and services to maintain their Despite the local content policy, binoculars, paint and varnish, the necessary and requisite Gross Registered Tonnage crew on board the ships. Nigeria has lost a whooping $60 and goods for ships, known chipping hammers and scrapers, commodities to a ship when (GRT), would require about However, the services has billion in the last 15 years, an as ships’ stores. lubricants, foods and beverages, at port. $50,000 monthly to take foods, been hijacked by foreigners equivalent of $4 billion annual By law, ship chandling spare parts, water and other THISDAY checks revealed pharmaceuticals, oil, lubricants while Nigerian chandlers are loss due to the dominance of business is meant for local allied services to make the next that over 5000 direct employ- and other things for it to go operating as a third party ship chandling business in the operators who are made up trip smooth for the ship’s master ment and 20,000 indirect to sea and return to the port. even as over 400 of them are country by foreigners. of retail dealers who specialise and its crews. employment are lost yearly due Numbers obtain at the being chased out by the foreign Ship chandling, a business in the supply of equipment In laymen’s language, a to the dominance of chandling Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) counterparts. established in Nigeria through and goods for ships, known ship chandler is a person (or business by foreigners. showed that there are more than THISDAY checks revealed an Act in 1958, is made up of as ships stores. sometimes a group/agency) Experts say this is happening 10,000 ships, oil platforms, rigs that less than 1 per cent of retail dealers who specialise The local chandlers supply that totally deals in supplying due to the inability of Nigeria and barges operating in the oil in the supply of equipment items such as: ship hardware required commodities for a to design policy that will favour gas and port sectors every year Continued on page 22 Stakeholders Decry Stringent Regulation Stifling Growth of Aviation Sector Chinedu Eze have stultified the sector in Other countries, the stake- Speaking on the state of forces, including processes that held in Lagos observed that a Nigeria. holders stressed, have found the aviation industry in the lead to the acquisition of Air situation where an operating Aviation stakeholders have They therefore called for ways to accelerate growth while country, the Chairman, West Operator Certificate (AOC). airline was compelled to renew expressed the view that besides the review and liberalisation maintaining efficient and safe Link Airlines, Capt. Ibrahim Mshelia who was the Chair- its AOC every two years was the negative impact of Covid-19 of some of these laws that do air transport sector by doing Mshelia lamented that the man of the League of Airports anti-progress and a setback to in the industry, stringent laws not suit the modern dynamics away with policies that restrain Nigerian aviation industry is and Aviation Correspondents that tend to frustrate investment in the industry. the growth of the sector. battling too many oppressive (LAAC) organised conference Continued on page 22 MARKET DATA AS AT THURSDAY JULY 29, 2021 FGN BONDS BILLS OTC FX FUTURES CPs DESCRIPTION Price Yield Change (%) MATURITY Discount Yield Change (%) CONTRACT Current MATURITY Discount Yield Change (%) TENOR Contract Rate ($/₦) 11.668 FGNSB (MONTH) CMBL CP XI 100.37 3.62 -0.35 NTB 26-Aug-21 3.75 3.76 -0.32 4.41 4.42 -0.37 15-AUG-2021 1 NGUS AUG 25 2021 420.93 2-AUG-21 10.301 FGNSB NTB 9-Sep-21 3.95 3.97 -0.30 MREP CP XXXI 16-AUG-2021 100.32 3.63 -0.35 2 NGUS SEP 29 2021 422.38 13-AUG-21 9.41 9.44 -0.35 11.150 FGNSB NTB 16-Sep-21 4.05 4.07 -0.29 UNCP CP III 27- 11-SEP-2021 100.84 4.02 -0.30 3 NGUS OCT 27 2021 423.83 AUG-21 4.90 4.92 -0.33 12.364 FGNSB NTB 30-Sep-21 4.25 4.28 -0.26 VAAG CP I 27- 12-SEP-2021 101.01 4.03 -0.30 4 NGUS NOV 24 2021 425.28 AUG-21 10.81 10.90 -0.33 12.175 FGNSB -0.25 NTB 14-Oct-21 4.45 4.50 -0.24 TTNG CP II 31- -0.32 10-OCT-2021 101.51 4.46 5 NGUS DEC 29 2021 426.73 AUG-21 5.30 5.32 22 FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021˾THISDAY BUSINESSWORLD NEWS DESPITE LOCAL CONTENT POLICY, OML 46: Ekeremor Community Kicks As Bayelsa NIGERIA LOSES $4BN, 25,000 JOBS ANNUALLY TO FOREIGN Govt Opposes License to Indigenous Oil Firm SHIP CHANDLERS Nigerian chandlers were Sylvester Idowu in Warri exclusive exploration rights. gracious offer was made by the recklessness of its Handling,jj Petroleum Resources reawarded engaged by the multination- He said the state oil Minister of Petroleum Resources over the years by the BOCL, we the Atala Oil Field to an indig- als in the nation’s petroleum The people of Ekeremor company failed to harness to the BOCL to renew its license also anticipated a response from enous Oil Exploration Company upstream sector to provide Constituency 11, host com- the potentials of the Oil within 18 months effective from the Federal Government who but expressed surprise that supplies for more than 2000 munity to OML 46, have Field up till 2010 when the 1st May 2016, which again set benchmarks and regulate the Bayelsa State Government is vessels and other oil facilities, kicked against the opposition Federal Government graciously expired on December 2017. activities within the upstream now opposing the move. which operate in the sector as by Bayelsa State Government to granted an extension of its “For 17 years, the good sector where Atala Oil Field is “When the Federal Govern- against the 95 per cent allocated the licence recently granted an license for five extra years people of Ekeremor constituency residual”, he said. ment granted the license to the to Nigerians by the Nigerian indigenous oil firm lamenting for its Farm-Out Agreement 2 and other Host Communities, The lawmaker disclosed indigenous firm, this was met Local Content Policy. that non-exploration of Atala for the purpose of bringing without agitations, waited pa- that, early this year, the with huge sighs of relief and Previously, Nigerians were oil field since 2003 is hinder- it to production. tiently with diminishing expec- Federal Government, through belief that the fading hopes of the forefront of ship chandling ing the development of their “At the expiration of this tations over these wasted years. the Department of Petroleum the Host communities will be business. Ship chandelling being community. extension in 2015, again another Not only did we frown at the Resources and the Ministry of renewed and achieved. an international business and They therefore warned that dollar-denominated around the their patience is running out world used to be one of the and cannot guarantee peace in subsectors of the maritime sector the community having waited generating foreign exchange into for 18 years for the commence- the nation’s coffers. ment of exploration of the Atala The business, which was oil field, also known as OML described as a most lucrative 46, which in turn will hasten one in the maritime sector, development of Ekeremor hardly contributes 2 per cent community. in terms of foreign exchange Lawmaker representing to the economy. Ekeremor Constituency 11 in Stakeholders are worried that Bayelsa State House of Assem- the law guiding ship chandelling bly and Deputy Minority leader, has not been effective. Hon. Wilson Ayakpo Dauyegha, They are worried that Section in a statement on behalf of 24 of the Customs and Excise the community berated the Management Act (CEMA), Bayelsa State Government for which regulates the business, opposing the licence granted has not been reviewed since the indigenous company hav- 1968 to reflect new trends. ing failed to utilize the earlier Speaking on the matter, exploration license granted the maritime expert, Jafar Malik state oil company said ship chandling is a local He also lambasted the business because there is a Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) for supplying of stocks to the ship, throwing it’s weight behind which has International connec- the stance of Bayelsa State tion and dollars domination. Government’s opposition to According to him, foreigners the renewed licence to the have chased the local opera- indigenous oil firm noting that tors out of chandling business the youth body is now been adding that hardly can one see seeing as a tool of government. Nigerians in the chandling Going down memory lane, business today. Dauyegha recalled that Atala He faulted the Customs and Oil Field was discovered in Exercise Management Act, 1982 and that Bayelsa State which has remained stagnant owned oil company (BCOL) for decades. was first awarded exploration CAPACITY BUILDING WORKSHOP… licence in 2003, which had L-R: Special Adviser to Director General, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Mr. Emeka Duru; Director General, SON, Mallam Farouk Salim; Director, Standard Development Directorate, SON, Mrs. Chinyere Egwuonwu and Deputy STAKEHOLDERS DECRY STRINGENT REGULATION Director/Head, Public Relations, SON, Mr. Bola Fashina during SON capacity building workshop for journalists in STIFLING GROWTH OF AVIATION SECTOR Lagos...recently commercial airline business in process of our commercial Nigeria. operations. The word AOC Besides, he lamented that in has been so over-valued like a Minister Seeks Proper Sensitisation Nigeria, irrespective of the mode village masquerade that appears of operations and specifications, once in five years. This is not airlines are made to undergo supposed to be so. Operation the same rigorous processes, specifications in this regard are of MSMEs on AfCFTA Opportunities stressing that nowhere else in the masquerade and not the James Emejo in Abuja Employers Consultative Associa- businesses. This is an important He pointed out that Nigeria, the world are operators given certificate. tion (NECA) in Abuja, reiterated finding for the nation, as this as the largest economy in Africa, such stringent conditions before “Today, we have an The Minister of Industry, Trade the need to fill the knowledge lack of knowledge will prevent has the potential to greatly they could commence flight unhealthy situation where and Investment, Mr. Adeniyi gap on the possible effects of their successful utilization of increase its trading volumes, services. there is a blanket issuance Adebayo has called for the AfCFTA on the economy. the agreement. production capacity and genera- “With the lopsidedness in procedure of AOC for big, sensitisation of the Medium, The report was based on the “The key takeaway is that tion of foreign investments. the procurement procedures small, or large operations. Small and Medium Enterprises surveys conducted for 1,800 more needs to be done to ad- The minister said: “However, and the operational limits of Under this system, the roles (MSMEs) on the implementa- MSMEs in five states, covering equately disseminate information as a country, we can only fully AOC holders in Nigeria, there of other segments of opera- tion of the African Continental multiple sociocultural zones, to our MSMEs to ensure that benefit from this opportunity is an urgent need to amend our tors that are also entitled, by Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to to evaluate the awareness they are effectively prepared in if we are adequately prepared Act and policy in this area, to law, to operate commercial enable them benefit from the and preparedness of MSMEs the post-integration era.” for the impending changes empower the civil aviation to operations, unfettered as guar- continental market. for the implementation of the He said AfCFTA had the that will affect our business also break down the certification anteed by the International The minister, while comment- agreement. capacity to boost intra-African environment. It is necessary that Civil Aviation Organisation ing on a report on, “Continental Adebayo said: “The survey trade and is expected to deliver we understand the full-scale (ICAO), is not spelt out. By Integration and the Nigerian results disclosed that the ma- an integrated continental mar- impact that AfCFTA will have ICAO standard, small, large Economy,” during a roundtable jority of MSMEs are unaware ket, consisting of 1.27 billion on all people and businesses, and medium operations, in- on AfCFTA agreement, which of the existence of the trade consumers with an aggregate especially in terms of job cluding; Air Taxi, Air Charter, was organised by the Nigeria’s agreement, especially smaller GDP of $3.4 trillion. creation and economic activities. Cargo Only, nonscheduled and scheduled operations and others are recognized, Group Business Editor ”he said. INTELS Graduates 11th Batch of Women Eromosele Abiodun Mshelia said that instead of subjecting airlines to the rigour Empowerment Scheme Comms/e-Business Editor of renewal of AOC every two Emma Okonji years, the regulatory authority Nigeria’s oil and gas logistics training in fashion design and Limited, Mr. Pasquale Fiore, schemes for the communities Aviation Editor should have robust and efficient giant, INTELS Nigeria Limited tailoring. said, the scheme symbolizes around us and we are very Chinedu Eze inspection and oversight team has graduated 34 beneficiaries The beneficiaries, drawn from the collaborative efforts of the happy that over the years, so Asst. Editor, Money Market that scrutinises the activities of the 11th Batch of its flagship various parts of the country, are trainers, participants and the many people have graduated Nume Ekeghe of airlines. women development programme trained in two batches every year. entire INTELS family. from this scheme and we are “One recommendation which popularly known as the Women The beneficiaries undergo He commended the WEPSSS also aware that many of them Senior Correspondent has managed to dodge gov- Empowerment Programme intensive tuition-free trainings trainers and beneficiaries for their are doing well.” Raheem Akingbolu ernment action is a thorough Scheme Synergy (WEPSS). for four months. They also enjoy “resilience and determination”, Also speaking at the gradu- (Advertising) overhaul of the inspectorate The graduation of the 11th free transportation to and from while urging the beneficiaries to ation ceremony, WEPSS Project Correspondents division of our civil aviation Batch brings the total number the training venue, free medical use their newly acquired skills Manager, Nancy Freeborn com- James Emejo (Finance) agency. This has to be done of beneficiaries in the popular services and monthly stipends. to “earn a living and contribute mended the management of Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) quickly, to galvanise the women empowerment scheme Speaking at the graduation to the growth of the Nigerian INTELS for its commitment to Chineme Okafo (Energy) Nigerian aviation industry to 1,500. ceremony for beneficiaries of economy”. the empowerment of women, Emmanuel Addeh (Energy) achievements. The staff of WEPSS is a Corporate Social the 11th Batch (also known as Represented by the company’s promotion of Nigerian content Responsibility initiative estab- the 2021 Batch A) at the Federal Human Resources Manager, and support for local commu- Reporters the agencies has done well so far but the new and desired lished by INTELS in 2013 to Lighter Terminal, Onne Port, Dominic Onwujekwe, the INTELS nities despite the COVID-19 Nosa Alekhuogie (ICT) empower 5,000 Nigerian women Rivers State, the Managing Managing Director said, “This is pandemic and the present Peter Uzoho (Energy) NCAA will require a change of attitude as well. over a 20-year period through Director of INTELS Nigeria one of our many empowerment economic challenges. THISDAY ˾FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 23 BUSINESSWORLD AVIATION NEWS Air Peace Crew Bags Awards for Aborting Theft Onboard Flight Air Peace crew have been as well as customer safety. returned from the lavatory, it Aviation Industry’s Slow Recovery recognised with five Awards The award recipients was confirmed that the bag of Excellence for thwarting an were Captain Otobo belongs to Adeniyi. He later alleged attempt by one Mr. Eze Ogheneochuko(Pilot-in- disclosed that the envelope from Covid-19 Devastation Kelvin to steal a considerable Command); First Officer had a significant sum, which amount of money belonging to Phina Uzama-Okpalaeke; was still intact when Kelvin Adedeji Adeniyi, the managing Olufemi Basanya, Lead Crew; returned the envelope.” director of Toptech Engineering and Amira Nwagui(Cabin Olisa stated that the Limited. Executive). incident was immediately Spokesperson of the airline, A separate Award of Excel- reported to the Airport Se- Stanley Olisa said the incident lence was also bestowed on curity Officials who were occurred on about 7:40am on Air Peace. still handling it adding that Accra-Lagos flight on July 17, According to Olisa, “Our the alleged culprit has been 2021. crew noticed Kelvin taking blacklisted from flying with The crew who operated the an envelope of money from Air Peace. flight have been conferred with Adeniyi’s laptop bag in the “Also in June this year, awards by the management overhead cabin. Aware of the Air Peace crew demonstrated of Toptech Engineering Lim- former’s theft antecedents, commendable security alert- ited, in recognition of their our crew subtly questioned ness and vigilance as they outstanding customer service him about the ownership of prevented the trafficking and extra-vigilance in ensuring the bag, which he claimed of two babies by a couple, protection of items on-board was his. But when Adeniyi “he said. Chinedu Eze us apart. So we should work together. We must spearhead the change that we t the League of Airports and want, so moving at different directions Aviation Correspondents at this time will have damaging effect on Marriott to Host (LAAC) conference held on the industry, so it is very important that Wednesday in Lagos, the we work together,” Yadudu said. Managing Director of the The Chairman of Senate Committee Aviation, Cargo FederalA Airports Authority of Nigeria on Aviation, Senator (FAAN), Captain Rabiu Yadudu said also called for financial support of the Conference in Nigeria that it would take a long time before the industry, saying that it would take a long aviation industry would recover from the time for the sector to make a positive The Lagos Marriott Hotel fore the importance of the seeks to convene an annual devastating effect of Coronavirus pandemic. turnaround. has announced that it Nigerian Export Processing conference that brings all He said that the pandemic stifled the “The aviation industry has improved will play host to the first Zones Authority NEPZA to potential Exporters, Cargo operational funds of aviation agencies, significantly and the sector is very critical AviaCargo event in Nigeria. the growth of Aviacargo in managers, Logistics firms, stripped airlines of capital and left the in the economy of this nation, so whether The upscale Marriot was Nigeria. Airlines, Airports, Customs handling companies and other service opened to the public in May “NEPZA will be at and everyone in the Avia- the economy is good or not, the aviation 2021. Located in the heart of chinet to showcase the tion and Cargo ecosystem to providers writhing in abject need of credit industry plays very key role, but the Ikeja GRA near the airport, opportunities available to chart a pathway that enables from financial institutions. industry needs palliative, especially the it is well positioned to host investors at the Airports. Nigerians export more. As the Yadudu said that the aviation industry airlines. It takes a lion heart to invest in aviation events. NEPC and NEPZA will be importance of oil wanes, the is in need of financial support, saying that airline business,” he said. This was the view of the joining the Federal Airport value and volume of non-oil the industry needs financial engineering. The International Civil Aviation Organisa- Managing Director of Mac- Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) export should be growing “It will still take some time for the tion (ICA0) said that COVID-19 virus has folly Hospitality Limited the and Ethiopian Airlines as and Aviations hould be aviation industry to fully recover. We spread worldwide without acknowledging owners of Lagos Marriott, major partners of the first driving it,” the organiser, must focus on financial engineering. The borders. Mr. Chike Ogeah when he Aviacargo event in Nigeria. Ambassador Ikechi Uko, aviation agencies are feeling the negative led the organisers round the The two leading Aviation publisher of ATQnews said. “It has impacted all industries, all function suites of the hotel. Cargo and Logistics com- “The Conference, which impact of the pandemic. Financial support sectors and all aspects of our lives with He said the Lagos Mar- panies in Nigeria NAHCO would have an exhibition must come our way,”he said. devastating economic and financial losses riott is allied to the aviation and SAHCO will be major part would be broken into He said that the devastation of Corona- and significant uncertainties. sector and looks forward players at this event along three Parts over two days, virus is global and affects every country Also, the International Air Transport to hosting more aviation with many airlines, logistics Aviation, Cargo and Exports. with tremendous negative impact on the Association (IATA) has announced that conferences. and global financial service The Aviation aspect would air transport sector, adding that in terms passenger demand performance for June “Aviation and Cargo are companies, “he said. have a Presentation and of competence, experience and operational 2021 showing a very slight improvement part of the heritage of the Since 1935, aviation has been Panel Discussion on ‘Airlines, efficiency, the industry in Nigeria can in both international and domestic air owners of this hotel and growing in Nigeria. With so Airports and Aviatio.’ Experts compete with any other country in the we are happy to be a part many Airlines and Airports including airline CEOs, past travel markets, noting that demand remains of this maiden edition” it is expected that Aviation airport CEOs and aviators world. significantly below pre-COVID-19 levels Ogeah said. should and would contribute will discuss the reasons Yadudu said that the industry is still owing to international travel restrictions. Organiers of the event more to the nation’s economy. why our airlines and airport in distress and in dire need of funds, IATA disclosed that as comparisons ATQnews said more stake- The conveners of this event systems have not delivered stressing that without financial help the between 2021 and 2020 monthly results holders are signing up for ATQNews, a global Pan Afri- the best possible outcomes possibility of recovery in the foreseeable are distorted by the extraordinary impact the first Aviation, Cargo can Travel News organisation for aviation in Nigeria. future is slim. of COVID-19, unless otherwise noted, and Export Conference in says that the conference is “The Second Section on “We are still in distressed because we all comparisons are to June 2019, which Nigeria. long overdue. It says in its Cargo will be presentations need relief. Without financial help I don’t followed a normal demand pattern. The The Nigeria Export Pro- introductory message that and panel Discussions on the see any recovery,” he said. motion Council, the apex “Nigeria a country with Cargo and Logistics Value record is as follows: total demand for air body in charge of promoting over 200 million resource- Chain the Challenges of Scale The FAAN Managing Director said that travel in June 2021 (measured in revenue export in Nigeria would be ful people depends a lot on and the Opportunities avail- there are good policies that would guide passenger kilometers or RPKs) was down participating in the 2-day imports this has been eroding able. The third Part will be the industry effectively but the challenge is 60.1% compared to June 2019. That was a event. the national wealth. A lot on Export. How do we scale implementation of these policies to achieve small improvement over the 62.9% decline “They will be making of airlines bring freighters our Export Capacity? How do desirable results. recorded in May 2021 versus May 2019. a presentation on how daily to Nigeria and most of we remove the impediments He added that in addition to formulating International passenger demand in exporters can be assisted them fly out empty. There is and improve our access and good policies for the sector, there is still June was 80.9% below June 2019, an to do more through aviation. therefore a need to change market Penetration Globally. more to be done, adding that to make the improvement from the 85.4% decline NEPC is at the heart of all this dysfunctional scenario. There will a Support Session industry move forward, there is still much projects to lift aviacargo Nigeria needs to export more on Insurance and Financing recorded in May 2021 versus two years in Nigeria. The gazetting and Aviation should be the of Aviation, Cargo and Export to be done, so policy implementation is ago. All regions with the exception of of four airports as export key to increasing exports. in Nigeria,” Ambassador very important. Asia-Pacific contributed to the slightly processing zones brings to To this end Atqnews Ukoh said. “We should make sure that we grow higher demand. all areas of the industry so we must keep Total domestic demand was down 22.4% on working together and we should not versus pre-crisis levels (June 2019), a slight allow divergent opinions and views to tear gain over the 23.7% decline recorded in Boeing Sees Pathway Back May 2021 versus the 2019 period. The “We are seeing movement performance across key domestic markets was mixed with Russia reporting robust to Recertification of the in the right direction, expansion while China returned to negative particularly in some key territory. “We are seeing movement in the right MAX in China domestic markets. But the direction, particularly in some key domestic Boeing’s executives discussed 95,000 commercial revenue country remains a sticking situation for international markets. But the situation for international the rebound of the 737 flights. All of this comes as point: China. The country travel is nowhere near where travel is nowhere near where we need MAX program in 2021. The 175 countries have reopened has been slow to move to be. June should be the start of peak company has delivered 130 their airspace for 737 MAX forward on the return of we need to be. June should be season, but airlines were carrying just 20% aircraft since the unground- operations, including in key the Boeing 737 MAX, and the start of peak season, but of 2019 levels. That’s not a recovery, it’s a ing as of July 25th. Around markets like the US, Canada, analysts, industry profes- continuing crisis caused by government the world, 30 airlines have Mexico, Brazil, and Europe. sionals, and Boeing have airlines were carrying just inaction,” said IATA’s Director General, brought the aircraft back According to the online been keenly watching the Willie Walsh. into service and flown over medium, simple flying, one moves made in this space. 20% of 2019 levels.” 24 THISDAY ˾FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 BUSINESSWORLD AVIATION ANALYSIS Dimming Expectation over National Carrier About three years ago the federal government unveiled the logo and livery of national carrier in London and still assures that the project would be realised next year. The federal government also plans to concession the major airport facilities before the end of next year. Chinedu Eze examines the prospects of the national airline operating under concessioned major airport terminals.

here is something nostalgic about IATA also noted that flag carriers operational hub, it would help the airports. SAA failed because their airports are national carrier in Nigeria. This hold a certain amount of significance airline’s sustainability. This is because independent. Kenya Airways is merging with is because the Nigeria Airways in the aviation industry, in terms of both airports largely earn more revenues the airport because Kenya Airways generate Limited, which was established on financially and symbolically. Previously, than airlines. So airline revenue would about 60 per cent of the traffic and 83 per 23 August, 1958 and was liquidated the airlines that were owned by the support an airline that owns it and cent of the revenue of the Jomo Kenyata inT 2004 remains the most successful airline in government were considered great for helps it to become profitable. International Airport,” he said. Nigeria. Under the defunct airline, Nigeria international trade and national defence. Airlines generate revenues through He also noted that in the last 10 years developed enviable manpower in aviation, The global body rightly observed that aeronautical and non-aeronautical and many airlines have collapsed in Africa, but attained the height of conducting C-check some passengers would still opt to fly the later is elastic because airports no airport has collapsed during the given on certain aircraft types and developed the with their national flag carrier for the could be home to a range of revenue period. The national carrier must have to aviation infrastructure that is being rehabilitated sense of pride that it gives them when sources including special product areas partner with the airport because that has been and expanded after its demise. they see the familiar tail of the aircraft (Duty-Free, Souvenir shops, bookstores the most successful model so far,” he said. So most aviators who are seasoned profes- on the runway. Also, some passengers and banks), food and beverage areas sionals benefitted directly and indirectly from will sometimes choose to fly with flag (restaurants, cafeterias), travel services AIRPORT TERMINALS the airline and the crops of professionals carriers over other airlines, due to the (car rental, insurance services), personal who are still manning the sector today are image that they are safer and less likely service areas (showers, hairdressers, The Chief Operating Officer of Ibom Air inexorably linked to the national carrier. to encounter financial difficulties. This is beauty centres but airlines generate who is also former Managing Director of This is one of the reasons why the industry one of the reasons why many Nigerians revenue mainly from ticket sales and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria was aroused when the Minister of Aviation, still long for a national carrier and why charter services. (FAAN), George Uriesi, told THISDAY that Hadi Sirika in 2016 declared that one of the they expect that the federal government Travel expert and organiser of airlines could manage their operational programmes of President Muhammadu fulfill its promise of establishing a nation Akwaaba African Travel Market, terminals but not the airports. He noted that Buhari administration was the berthing carrier. Ambassador Ikechi Uko told THIS- US mega carriers, Delta Air Lines, United of a new national carrier. Not a few were Sirika assured the realisation of the DAY that it might be difficult for Airlines have their terminals, adding that expectant. Today, that expectation is begin- project while addressing state house the planned national carrier to be each airline can design its own terminals ning to fade, considering the responses of correspondents after the weekly federal profitable if it does not have control of to suit its vision. industry observers who spoke to THISDAY. executive council meeting in Abuja recently the terminals at its operational base. “But airport is expensive infrastructure, The Minister also said that before the end of and reiterated that the national carrier He cited examples with airlines that so no airline can go into it; if they do they the current administration, the four major would be realised with huge stakes of have control of the airport facilities, will be stretched. Ethiopian Airlines has to airports terminals in Lagos, Abuja, Kano the company owned by the private inves- which revenues are at their behest and design what it wants. But if the national and Port Harcourt would be given out in tors. In 2018, the Minister had unveiled others that their airport facilities are carrier operates in airport terminals that concession to private investors in a public, the name and logo of the new national managed by a different entity, which are managed by concessionaire it may not private partnership arrangement. These carrier, Nigeria Air, at the Farnborough also control their revenues. affect its profitability. This is because the are the two key programmes of the Buhari International Airshow in London. The “Personally, I support the establishment concessionaire will not charge itself out of administration. Others are the establishment project was later suspended indefinitely of a national carrier, but I listened to a the market. If the concessionaire introduces of a leasing company and the establishment “I regret to announce that the Federal presentation from an official of African outrageous charges the airline can leave of Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Executive Council has taken the tough Airlines Association (AFRAA), which the airport and move over to others. There hangar. These projects are aimed to support decision to suspend the National Carrier indicated that airports make more must be a balance in the pricing. Any airline the national carrier that was supposed to Project in the interim. All commitments money than airlines and that airlines that will have a terminal dedicated to it have taken off, at least by end of this year, due will be honoured. We thank the that make profits are those that control must have to be a big airline,” he said. if not for the economic devastation of the public for the support as always,” he their airport facilities. Speaking in the same vein, the industry Coronavirus pandemic. had tweeted. But recently Sirika said the “Now, I wonder why Nigeria wants consultant and CEO of Belujane Konsult, new national carrier was long overdue and to have a national carrier and at the Chris Aligbe said the national carrier that NATIONAL CARRIERS the private sector-run airline would be in same time wants to concession major would be floated by the federal govern- operation by early 2022, noting that the airport terminals. Kenya is at the verge of ment would be private sector driven and According to the International Air Transport new national carrier was expected to be a merging the Jomo Kenyata International therefore should be given a level playing Association (IATA), a national of flag carrier viable airline and is potentially poised to Airport and Kenya Airways. Ethiopia field with other airlines. In that case, no is an airline, which is subsidised or owned cater to millions of travellers in Nigeria Airlines, which is the most profitable airport terminal will be dedicated to it but by the country in which they are registered. and Africa. Sirika said the COVID-19 airline in Africa, merged the airport would utilise the same facilities as other The airline often seeks preferential rights or pandemic forced the postponement of facilities to the airline. carriers. privileges by the government for international the planned date for the establishment “So in that paper delivered by Aaron “As people talk about level playing field, operations. of the national carrier initially planned Monetsi of AFRAA, who was a guest the planned national carrier will not be In the past, the term national airline or for the end of 2021. speaker at Akwaaba African Travel Market, publicly owned. It will be private sector national carrier was known to be airlines, he noted that African airlines that do not driven. If the major airport terminals are which were owned by the government, and CONFLICT have control and the revenues of their concessioned, the operators should be willing therefore associated with the national identity operations hub may not be able to be to give the national carrier a position in of the country. However, these days, it can But many industry pundits are of the profitable. Emirates is in charge of its the terminals. Except if such agreement refer to any airline with a strong connection view that for a national carrier to be operational hub in Dubai, South Africa are excluded, the national carrier can be to its home country, regardless of if it is successful it ought to have the control Airways (SAA) is floundering largely given its own space. The airline and the government-owned. Therefore, not all flag of the major airport terminals in that because its major airport facilities are concessionaire can agree on terms. But carriers are owned by the government, as many country. In fact, successful airlines managed independently. So the question if you assign a terminal to the national have become private companies. Examples are in Africa own or control the major is, which model is the Nigeria copying? carrier, there wont be equal playing field British Airways, Air France, KLM, Lufthansa; airport terminals where they operate. How does it want to concession its airports anymore.so the airlines should be given but it has to be noted, however, that due to Industry experts are of the view that and at the same time have a national equal opportunities and should be left at the the devastating impact of Covid-19, some if the terminals of major airports are carrier? This is where I have misgivings mercy of the concessionaires,” Aligbe said. countries are injecting funds into the hitherto given out in concession, the national about the planned national carrier. Many Nigerians are waiting and hoping national airlines through equity holding in carrier might not be given a head start. “Our model is different. I don’t know that a national carrier will come before order to give then a lifeline. One example Besides, if a national carrier owns and where it has survived in Africa. Airlines the end of this administration. But that is Lufthansa. earns revenue from the terminal of its that survived in Africa worked with their hope is ebbing. FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021˾THISDAY 25 BUSINESSWORLD PERSPECTIVE The Place of PEF(M)B in the Petroleum Industry Bill he Senate passage of the Petroleum current Petroleum Minister, Chief Timpriye Industry Bill (PIB) on Thursday, Sylvia, to shoring up crude production to July 1st, 2021, predictably, brought some 3 million barrels per day during his to fore, the dissension of some ongoing tenure. stakeholders on certain extant Aside that, the DPR is responsible for Tprovisions in the much-anticipated document. licensing and monitoring Filling Stations’ The Upper House decision to peg the allotted activities. Even carrying out these functions funds to host communities at 3 per cent (to is not without drama. For instance, there be sourced from the operating expenditure was a strike action carried out recently of oil and gas prospecting companies), for by an arm of the Independent Petroleum instance, generated a lot of furore in the Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), hallowed Senate chambers, as that resolution at Suleija, Niger State. Some members of drew the ire of some Senators representing the association had accused DPR Officials the Niger Delta region. of unethical practices. The strike action was Even though the Senate President, resolved later when the IPMAN Abuja had remarked that, with Chairman, Alhaji Ahman Yahaya Alhassan the bill passage, “...PIB demons have been was quoted as saying “ the suspension is defeated…”, it became instantly clear that sequel to an understanding we had with the “demons” may have been weakened, the Department of Petroleum Resources”, they are certainly, not down and out! according to Daily Trust Newspaper of June The Senate Joint Committee on Petroleum 24, 2021. Sector - Downstream, Upstream, and Gas In effect, merging the three Government - had inputted a 5 per cent provision for Agencies of PEF(M)B, PPPRA, and DPR host communities in the Bill. This was even under an amorphous juggernaut tagged a 5 per cent decrease from the 10 per cent “The Authority”, is bound to worsen the for which the community leaders had been already straining socio-economic fabric of clamouring. the nation. Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo Everyone is familiar with the problems Agege, even momentarily, shed his toga the nation had been experiencing over as the Number 2 man in the Senate, and the years with government bureaucracy. appealed to his colleagues in the normal Merging these entities is bound to create garb of a fellow Distinguished Senator (he strife, engender unnecessary bottlenecks, represents the good people of Delta Central and hamper efficiency. Needless to say, Senatorial District), to uphold the 5 per everything that will threaten the prevailing cent earlier earmarked by the Committee, tranquillity of petrol supply all over the all to no avail. Ditto for James Manager “The Federal Government is currently nation, should be nipped in the bud straight (representing Delta South Senatorial District. away. A popular Yoruba adage posits that His reconsideration plea of the 3 per cent saddled with finding solutions to the one starts avoiding a sharp object hitting provision, fell on deaf ears. one’s eye, right from afar. Others such as Bassey Akpan (Akwa Ibom seemingly intractable insecurity bedevilling Nearly everyone is keenly aware of the North-East Senatorial District), and George galloping prices of food items all over Sekibo (Rivers East Senatorial District), the country apart from other problems the country at the moment. Housewives invoked similar sentiments, but it appeared and even the unmarried, are scrambling the die is cast, at least for now, until the such as power paucity, burgeoning youth on how to work their food budget to last two Houses decide otherwise, when they the long haul. Many cannot even afford to converge for the harmonisation of the Bill, feed themselves anymore. The other day, sometime in the foreseeable future. unemployment…” a clip, showing a long line of able-bodied Some other key provisions of the Bill read: individuals of both sexes queueing for r //1$ UP CF SFXPSLFE BT B MJNJUFE food being shared by a Church in Surulere, liability company of the three agencies and it is expected that monitors field operations round Lagos, circulated widely on social media. r "QQSPWBM PG  QFS DFOU GVOE GSPN to run efficiently and effectively. the clock, year in, year out, thereby The situation is that dire. NNPC Limited profits to fund exploration To be sure, some of the Agencies do ensuring that untoward incidents are A program segment on Arise TV- The in ‘frontier basins’. have a few overlapping functions but dealt with immediately. Morning Show - recently conveyed that For weeks, as the quest for signing the it’s important to weigh their roles in The socio-economic benefits of DAFMIS Nigeria had the highest percentage -17.5 per much-awaited Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) getting premium motor spirit (petrol) to are multifarious. The system provides for cent - of headline inflation (year-on-year), into law, by the National Assembly gathered the final consumer and how that plays on-time data that is germane to making among four African nations polled for May momentum, not a few were worried that into the socio-economic stability of the critical decisions in the downstream 2021. Others such as South Africa, Ghana, and its passage, would again, be kicked down nation at large before any pruning and/ segment of the petroleum sector. It Senegal recorded only single-digit inflation the road due to some unresolved issues by or aggregation are even considered. provides a veritable plank for the nation’s of 5.25, 7.5, and 1.3 per cent in that order. various stakeholders. Out of the three Agencies, the one that economic planners, lends itself to the Anyone could easily sum up that all is not Part of the issue threatening the bill passage has a direct impact on the day-to-day maintenance of energy security and the well with the economic well-being of our (which had been in the works for 2 decades), life of the ordinary person is PEF(M) promotion of local content among other dear nation at the moment. was the demand by community leaders for B. Today, the fact that petrol is being functions, all in line with best global Merging PEF(M)B therefore with other an increase in revenue allocation from the sold at a uniform price all over Nigeria practices and management systems. agencies, or the emergence of “The Authority”, proposed 2.5 per cent to 10 per cent for host is due to the ‘equalisation’ activities of PEF(M)B’s position in the Petroleum will no doubt bring in its wake, an inefficient communities. The leaders believe this is the PEF(M)B. The system of price uniformity, Industry Bill should therefore be system that is guaranteed to disrupt the only way that the standard of living of the put in place since the inception of this unambiguous. smooth supply of petrol with attendant people in their domains (most of whom all-important organisation in 1975, has For PPPRA, a body that determines consequences, in tow. These consequences do are already suffering immense economic been hugely modernised and is working the prices of petrol products within not require further elucidation. Anything that deprivation, due to the flip side of various perfectly. Incidences of losses and phoney the polity, it’s the vision of running will further depress the already parlous and oil exploration activities), could be improved claims by marketers have been largely a smooth and resilient downstream pitiable economic condition of the average upon. Other stakeholders were seeking a plugged through immense investments sub-sector of the petroleum industry, man on the street, could result in a public public sale of some shares of the National in Information Technology and Truck with the ultimate goal of engendering disorder of cataclysmic proportions. Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), whilst some Tracking. self-financing and sustenance, should James Baldwin, the world-renowned still, believe market-based prices should To dig deeper, PEF(M)B has the not be muddled by a merger. essayist, poet, and activist got it right be charged for gas earmarked for power most accurate data on activities in Also, the DPR has its job cut out. when he affirmed that “the most dangerous generation; a move which will, definitely, the downstream sector according to The Department functions cut across creation of any society is the man who has further impact adversely, the disposable industry watchers. Its robust Downstream the upstream and downstream activities nothing to lose”. income of the average Nigerian. Automated Fuel Management Information of the petroleum sector. The Federal Government is currently However, something more germane, urgent, System (DAFMIS) puts it in a pole Lately, DPR has been working overtime saddled with finding solutions to the and worrisome to industry watchers long position to provide near real-time to ensure that wanton and widespread seemingly intractable insecurity bedevilling before the recent Senate bill passage, was the information on vessels, refineries, crude oil theft is reduced drastically. the country apart from other problems idea of merging some Government Agencies pipelines, tank farms, depots, trucks, In February this year, the Nigerian such as power paucity, burgeoning youth such as the Petroleum Equalisation Fund and filling stations. This unique system National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) unemployment, and lately, various and (Management) Board (PEF(M)B), Department is structured to cut waste, improve affirmed that crude theft had risen to persistent agitations for self-determination of Petroleum Resources (DPR), and the efficiency, and plug loopholes in the an average of 200,000 barrels per day. by some indigenous groups, all of which Petroleum Products Pricing and Regulatory petrol distribution chain. That works out at 6 million barrels per are quite daunting! Merging PEF(M)B with Agency (PPPRA) in the PIB. Also, DAFMIS, modelled after the month or 72 million barrels per year. other agencies would therefore be “adding The Senate Joint Committee, in its report, procedures and processes, guiding and That is mind-boggling and the economic petrol to fire”; something the nation cannot had proposed that the three Agencies be guarding the operations of the highly losses, quite colossal. afford at this moment in its history. merged under an entity to be known as “The regarded Saudi Arabian oil company, The activities of the oil thieves is a r &OJPMB 0MBLVOSJ  B %JSFDUPS PG 0BUT Authority”. This new organ is to be saddled Aramco, accommodates an Operations dampener, direct threat and also runs (MPCBM &OFSHZ BOE QVCMJD TFDUPS BOBMZTU with tackling the onerous responsibilities Control and Command (OCC) Centre counter to the avowed mission of the XSJUFTGSPN"CVKB 26 FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021˾THISDAY BUSINESSWORLD NEWS Obaseki Unveils Plan to Make Edo One of Africa’s Top 20 Economies, Rallies United Nations Daramsimi Adebisi government’s audacious plan To Be by 2050,”at the United Obaseki said the state govern- system must be the best in the sustenance of its massive to make Edo State one of the Nations House, Abuja, noted ment has undertaken reforms to Nigeria and we should boast investment in infrastructure to The Edo State Governor, Mr. 20 top economies in terms of that the state is harnessing its place Edo at a vantage position of one of the best workforce take advantage of the location of Godwin Obaseki, has unveiled Gross Domestic Product (GDP) human and natural resources to to meet a number of the Sustain- on the continent. Edo. We must build the Benin the Making Edo Great Again in Africa by 2050. place it as a leading destination able Development Goals (SDGs) “This will be achieved through River Port to lighten up to 30 (MEGA) vision to the United The governor, in a presentation for investment in Nigeria. and also attract investment in rigorous planning in regional percent of the cargo from Tin Nations Country Team (UNCT) titled, “The Edo Vision: From According to the governor, energy and power, Information and urban planning, which will Can and Apapa Ports.” in Nigeria, outlining the Who We Are To Where We Want “We envisage an Edo State and Communication Technology point to and emphasize what “We would also build a rail which will be the fastest in (ICT), agriculture and processing we must do to attain double- link to all parts of the country GDP growth in Nigeria, and industries, among others, to digit growth over the next three with Edo as a hub; build an by 2050, must be top 3 in terms realise its vision. decades, and socio-economic international airport, and ensure NPA Pledges to of GDP ranking in Nigeria and He added: “With an estimated master plans to complement that Edo is the technology and top 20 in largest economies on population of 10 million resi- the physical master plans. innovation hub in Nigeria,” Enthrone International the African continent.” dents by 2050, our educational “The government will ensure Obaseki noted. Standards at Ports Eromosele Abiodun the dividends are evident in the areas of reduced cargo dwell The Acting Managing Director time, improvement in cargo of the Nigerian Ports Authority throughput, ship turn-around (NPA), Mohammed Bello Koko time and drastic reduction in has restated the commitment of security incidents within and the management of the author- around the Port environs. ity to enthrone international He called for better synergy standards and best practice with Nigeria Customs Service in the handling of ships and (NCS) and other agencies of cargo in all seaports in the government involved in the country. examination and clearance of Bello-Koko made the remark cargo, to drive efficiency in while addressing members Port operations. of the Senate Committee While expressing the appre- on Privatisation and Com- ciation of the authority to the mercialisation led by Senator lawmakers for their visit, Bello- Theodore Orji, on a visit to Koko assured that NPA would the NPA, in line with their work tirelessly at ensuring the oversight responsibility. sustenance of service excellence The NPA, Bello Koko stated, across the nations Ports. has created the enabling He solicited the timely environment for a well- intervention of the committee structured inter-modal system on efforts to end the peren- for seamless connectivity of nial traffic gridlock plaguing the water ways, rail and vehicular activities along the road transportation, to foster Port access roads. improved service delivery as Earlier, the Chairman of ithe well as increase in revenue Committee, Senator Theodore L-R: MD/CEO, Med-View Airlines, Muneer Bankole; DG, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Captain Musa to the nation’s purse. Orji stated that the Committee Nuhu, MD, Finchglow Travels, Mr Bernard Bankole; Representative of Minister of Aviation and Commissioner/CEO, He noted that the various would work collaboratively with reforms rolled out by the the NPA Management with the Accident Investigation Bureau Akin Olateru; Rector, Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Captain Alkali federal government have had view to resolve all bottlenecks Modibbo, at a conference in Lagos...recently PHOTO: KOLAWOLE ALLI a significant positive impact on militating against ease of doing Port productivity, stressing that business at the Ports. ‘ENGIE Battery Recycling Partnership will Arik Air Reconnects Warri with Abuja, Lagos Minimize Environmental Pollution’ Arik Air has announced that it Murtala Muhammed Airport Peter Uzoho Energy Access Nigeria, Bankole propriate disposal of waste of Nigerians over the next 5 would resume flight services Terminal 2, MMA2 effective Cardoso said Hinckley, will batteries, make for recovery of years. With this growth comes to Warri from both Lagos and Monday, August 2, 2021. All Nigeria’s clean and sustainable following the agreement, non-renewable materials used in the need to implement sustain- Abuja effective Tuesday, August Arik flights departing to and energy solutions provider, pick up old batteries from the making of batteries, reduce able methods of recycling and 3, 2021. arriving from both Benin and ENGIE Energy Access has ENGIE Energy Access’ Lagos cost of new batteries, reduce disposing end-of-use batteries The airline said flights Warri will operate from MMA2. stated that its newly executed warehouse for reprocessing. the risks of fire and explosion, and this partnership with the between Abuja and Warri as The Chief Executive Officer partnership with the Hinckley He listed various benefits among others,” he said. Hinckley Group addresses the well as between Lagos and of Arik Air, Captain Roy Ileg- Group to recycle old and end- the partnership will yield, “We have been operating issue.” Warri will operate four times bodu said: “We are delighted of-use batteries will minimize both as individuals and as in Nigeria since 2019 as Fenix He added, “ENGIE Energy weekly on Tuesday, Thursday, to announce the resumption the incidence of environmental a nation including environ- International and have had Access is the only energy player Saturday and Sunday. of services to Warri to serve pollution caused by inappropri- mental protection, economic great success, impacting the that can offer a fully integrated Similarly, Arik Air will be our esteemed customers. Our ate disposal of old Lithium- development, cost reduction, lives of over 200,000 Nigerians renewable energy solutions, that moving its Benin and Warri decision to move Benin and ion (li-ion) batteries and the amongst others. who lack access to energy. provides full end-to-end off grid flights from the Murtala Mu- Warri flights to MMA2 is to consequent harm it poses to According to him, “This Our new integration into The energy solutions. This position hammed Airport Terminal 1 give customers a seamless Nigerians. partnership will be to the benefit ENGIE Group has allowed us is what drives our commitment (otherwise known as GAT) to check-in experience.” Speaking during the official of Nigeria, both as individuals to scale even faster and wider to being an environmentally signing of the partnership and as a nation. It will minimize across Nigeria allowing us to conscious and responsible agreement held in Lagos, environmental pollution that bring our clean, reliable, and solution to the communities Mouka Launches New Managing Director of ENGIE could occur through inap- affordable energy to millions that we serve” he further said. Campaign, Rewards Ex UK-Based Glencore Trader Pleads Guilty over Bribery Consumers with Bedroom Scandal with NNPC Officials Makeover worth N1 Million Peter Uzoho to violate the Foreign Corrupt However, no particular and other authorities. Mouka, Nigeria’s leading brand is paramount for proper body with agency report Practices Act and also commit name from the NNPC had was “The conduct described in of mattresses and pillows has alignment, support and relief money laundering at a hearing mentioned in the report as an the plea is unacceptable and has launched a new campaign to from pressure points. These A former United Kingdom- in Manhattan federal court accomplice in the bribery scam. no place in Glencore,” Reuters encourage consumers to buy are all needed for quality based trader for Glencore conducted by video, as shown But court papers referred to quoted the company to have said. the right Mouka mattress based sleep to enable the individual Plc, Mr. Anthony Stimler, has by court records seven alleged co-conspirators Stimler will remain free in the on their unique needs. to wake up refreshed the reportedly pleaded guilty over Glencore is an Anglo-Swiss from several countries in the United Kingdom on $500,000 The “Get the Mouka for You” following day. his alleged role in a scheme mining company and one of bribery scheme, which pros- bond and his lawyers did not campaign seeks to educate To further entrench this “buy to bribe unnamed officials of the world’s largest commodity ecutors said ran from 2007 to immediately respond to requests consumers about the need to right” behaviour, Mouka has the Nigerian National Petro- traders. 2018, and none was charged or for comment, Reuters said. consider their age, body build, rolled out a competition in leum Corporation (NNPC) Stimler worked on Glencore’s identified by name. UK and Swiss authorities lifestyle and budget before which one lucky consumer gets in exchange for favorable oil West Africa desk from around The Justice Department has have also been examining choosing the right Mouka to win a bedroom makeover contracts from the corporation. 2002 to 2009 and again from been investigating Glencore’s possible corruption involving mattress. The campaign also worth up to N1 million. US prosecutors said Stimler around 2011 to 2019, court business dealings in Nigeria, Glencore, and various govern- features the leading associations To participate, consumers made the guilty plea on Monday papers showed. Venezuela and the Democratic ments have investigated other in the bedding industry, Nigeria visit the Mouka website to at a New York court in the Prosecutors said millions of Republic of Congo. large oil traders. Society of Physiotherapy (NSP) fill an online questionnaire United States. dollars in bribes were paid to The Glencore reportedly In March, former Glencore and National Association of that tells them the right Mouka The case is referred to as US. officials in Nigeria and elsewhere, confirmed in a statement that oil trader, Emilio Jose Heredia Orthopaedic and Manual mattress for them. Afterwards, v. Stimler, US. District Court, in exchange for NNPC awarding Stimler had been an employee Collado reportedly pleaded Therapists (NAOMT). they take a screenshot and post Southern District of New York, oil contracts and providing “more of the organization and that it guilty in San Francisco to According to these experts, it on social media using the No. 21-cr-00471. lucrative grades of oil on more has cooperated with probes by manipulating a key oil price sleeping on the right mattress hashtag #IFoundMyMouka. Stimler admitted to conspiring favourable delivery terms.” the US Department of Justice benchmark. NEWS METRO WEEKLY MAGAZINE THISLIFE THIS ART WEEKEND ENTERTAINMENT

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

Stephen Akintayo: Mentoring Young Entrepreneurs 28 THISDAY ˾   ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͯ COVER Stephen Akintayo: Mentoring Young Entrepreneurs Chief Executive Officer, GtextHomes, Dr. Stephen Akintayo, is often described as a man with a heart of gold given that he has over the years empowered over 15,000 Nigerian youths. He is also very committed to charitable programs. In this interview with Ayodeji Ake, he revealed how he has been creating more jobs for young Nigerians and his mission to uplift the real estate business through the ‘Smart City’ initiativet

What inspired your entrepreneurship to myself, we have to be ahead. So, we started journey? this concept of green smart homes wherein started business on campus. My our estate and in the houses, we have built, mother was a civil servant and my with your phone you can handle everything father’s business had crumbled before about the house. In fact, for some people from I was born. My mother was left alone to raise five children. Each time I was the wristwatch you can see what is going on Igoing to school, my mother would knock in the house, you can even talk to those at on doors for help. This is the reason why home, so a lot of security gadget, a lot of smart we invest a lot in kids’ tuition fees and gadget but more importantly green. So, we so far, we have paid over 5,000 tuition for are not connecting any of our estates to the them. I grew up being pained and this was national grid, we are not interested, everything not normal. I was lucky I had a cousin is renewable, we are doing a hybrid of solar who started a business immediately after I and recycling on the waste we are producing in completed my secondary school education. the environment, using hybrid biogas and solar. That was how my entrepreneurship journey started. Is this project going on right now or are you talking about projection? Can you share a painful experience you We are already on site, buildings have have suffered as an entrepreneur? commenced, we are just making sure that The biggest single loss was N120 million in our estates are self-sustainable, it’s in line with the real estate sector but that was the single the millennium development goals, and like loss that made me say in this business we will I said, it’s just that Nigeria keeps shifting the build billions. Land ownership is still a big goal post, all these things are the things that problem in Nigeria. We purchased our land in the world has agreed that we need to start bulk and the day we were to take possession moving in this direction but we know how of the land, the whole family came out and we do our things. said who sold the land to you, we don’t know him, and that was how we lost the money. We Can the real estate industry diversify have learned and made success in acquiring the Nigerian economy away from oil? properties through the appropriate agencies. The answer is definitely yes. To achieve this is solely in the hands of the government. The What are the interventions by GTextHomes Dubai government made an intentional decision to reduce the burden of unemployment? by the sheikh to develop its real estate industry. We are taking 100,000 and between last year The country was deliberate to diversify its and now we already have over 5,000 people economy from oil by going into real estate in our programs. Recently, we had a broker’s and tourism among others. To do this, they conference where we empowered over 15,000 started building the right infrastructures to enable people through what we are doing so we are other industries to thrive. It was a decision getting close because our goal is 100,000 for the government chose to make. The Nigerian five years. We can say through our program, government can also decide to diversify the Nigerian youths have been empowered to become economy through the real estate sector. It will real estate brokers. In terms of unemployment happen but I honestly see the private sector doing that is why we made our event open so other it and not the government. Do you know the companies can plug in the system so as to most expensive land in the world is in Nigeria- reduce unemployment. This definitely will Lagos; Banana Island, in New York, they sell force down the unemployment rate. floors they don’t sell land, I would have said maybe New York will top them, it is only in How can we address the issues of Akintayo Lagos that you buy land 600 square metres for unemployment and insecurity? two million dollars. There is no place else in Presently, insecurity is one of the major the world, that is why even the private sector challenges we are facing in Nigeria. You can’t has jumped in and they are making this thing just tackle insecurity issues with bullets. I was mega, so all we just need is a little government in Maiduguri in 2019, I went to one of the support to make things easier. Look at what is IDP camps at Gubio IDP camp. I was born You do not need money to become a happening with Ogun and Oyo State, investment there so we went to do some charity work, is moving to those places because it is easy to the place that was supposed to take 3,500, broker all you need is your credibility, get your Certificate of Occupancy, so those are we have 35,000 people there with no job, the little things the government can do to create the health centre with no enough medicine there. social media, your connections, your much-needed jobs for the economy. There is no So, tell me why if Boko haram is saying I can other bigger employer of labour in any sector give you more money and all other promises network and you don’t even need to than real estate. to commit atrocities, they won’t fall for it? For us, if we don’t want security issues to quit your existing job to do that. If you Don’t you think that the real estate policies continue to be a serious problem, particularly of other governments are friendlier? here in the south and it’s here in the south look at one of the best things God has Before there was no government policy guiding too right now, even as private sector, we have them, just now they are trying to control the to find a way to create jobs. Some were here endowed us with, it’s real estate. We sector, take for instance the social media, when it last year when we announced that we were started there was no policy, some people started creating a platform to help employ 100,000 hope that this movement will help to it without law from scratch and built it to what people in the real estate sector and we are it is today. We must sell the same narrative in committing 15 per cent of our income into reduce unemployment in this country, Nigeria. Young people should go and pick a that and when we launched our programs, we sector and hustle it out. I am not saying it easy. invited the best in the world, Ryan Serhant is it will solve issues of security as more I also started small, I trekked Ikeja along to the number one property broker in the world, Sango for many days because I couldn’t afford he is based in New York. He has done over people can learn to know they can make it N200 then to go back to Sango. I often slept in four billion dollars in property sales, every year my office with mosquitoes. I use to paste postal, he sells more than one billion dollars worth of legitimately do photocopy and buy bulk SMS at 70 kobo property. You do not need money to become a per SMS. So, it wasn’t easy but we can do it. broker all you need is your credibility, social media, your connections, your network and keeps happening, the product keeps coming problems. That is why we are investing What has been your comfort resolution you don’t even need to quit your existing job in the market keeps going. The market a lot in conferences and training because strategy? to do that. If you look at one of the best things doesn’t finish nor does the product finish, we just need to start changing the mindset Elders! The wisdom of elders, my uncle God has endowed us with, it’s real estate. We it’s big enough for everybody. of Nigerians. There are applications that sold most of the lands in Omole, Berger, you hope that this movement will help to reduce some of our brilliant young Nigerian can know I didn’t know him until I got into real unemployment in this country, it will solve Can you tell us about some of the come up with that will solve these issues, estate, but later on, I went into real estate. issues of security as more people can learn to work that Gtexhomes is doing in the that will give you satellite imagery where These are the people you go to for advice, know they can make it legitimately. Nigerian real estate industry? kidnappers are keeping people with the you are having these issues and how do we Gtexhomes has been doing a lot in the coordinates, you just need to tap into that handle such, we have had to leverage not You plan to empower people in the next country’s real estate industry. This year, we youthful, young energy. just him but several people. five years, do you have the buyers? are building one thousand housing units and As much as people keep coming, reproduction we have started already, a lot of contractors Tell us about the Smart City concept? What are the things that Gtexthomes is keeps coming in. The land doesn’t finish. If are already mobilised, and we are getting Right! The United Kingdom has said that putting together aside this event to inspire you have to check, that’s one of the things you more on board, and also by the end of it will reduce its CO2 emission by 78 per the Nigerian youths? begin to wonder that just in case this horizon the year, we would be having more than cent by 2035. So, we are having countries One of the things we have started doing is has been finished, you realise before you come 20 branches in the country. People have give 15years deadline, 20years deadline, so to mentor intentionally; media men, celebrities, back, the horizon is gone again, that it has been asking why we are expanding despite everything is becoming smart, green but actors, and actresses. So what is missing is a expanded and if you keep watching, Ibeju lekki, the rising insecurity in Nigeria, but again Africa is not even having that conversation. role model, it is not that the Nigerian youth before you know, it expands and expands, the the concept of entrepreneurship is solving I wanted to change the narrative, so I said can’t be patient. They need to be inspired and land doesn’t finish in as much as reproduction supported to tap opportunities across industries. THISDAY ˾   ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͯ 29 NEWS Our Students are Trained to be God-fearing, Law-abiding – Pastor Adeboye

Stories by Mary Nnah mitment” the cleric noted. She was quick to add that Obafemi Omokungbe, who who attend technical col- Omokungbe therefore Speaking further he said the College Entrepreneurship gave the convocation lecture leges as dropouts”, adding, stressed the need for the , “A lot of people draw an Centre has been engaging titled, “Raising champions for “they are not. It is a chosen government to fund technical Proprietor of Redeemer’s imaginary line between physi- all the students in various the next phase of technical in- profession because there are education as well as revive College of Technology and cal and spiritual things, but vocational training. novation in Nigeria”, said carpenters and electricians the old technical colleges that Management (RECTEM) we don’t believe that in RCCG The Rector of Yaba College “people should change our who can earn more than a have been abandoned for so and General Overseer, Re- as the Lord is the source of of Technology, Lagos, Mr orientation of seeing those PhD holder”. long. deemed Christian Church of wisdom both in the secular God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch and spiritual world.” Adeboye, has said students This belief, he said, “forms at the institution are trained the bedrock of this institution not just to be skilled workers for our students to be skilled and employers of labour, but workers and employers of also to be God-fearing and labour impacting the tech- law-abiding, presenting nological development of themselves as responsible this country. employers, employees, fam- As the graduating students ily members and citizens of were sent forth to face the Nigeria. Speaking during the world, the RCCG G.O advised convocation of the first set of that “Though you are in the graduates from the college at world, you are not of the the school premises in Mowe, world. Carry and conduct Ogun State recently, Adeboye yourself with the dignity that who was represented by Prof. comes with the children of Fola Aboaba, said RECTEM God. So, press on and work remains committed to raising harder, do not rest on your exemplary citizens, as it has oars, this is not the end, it is instilled values in the graduat- simply the beginning”, Pastor ing students. Adeboye advised. Adeboye said further that RECTEM’s Rector, Dr. Stella workplaces and the nation in Mofunanya, said the rate at general, require skilled indi- which the school has grown viduals who fear God as they is remarkable, explaining that are assets that will not only the level of performance of the help develop the country’s students continues to justify economy but also move the the decision of the college nation forward as a whole. from inception. “While some may see any Mofunanya recalled that mention of Christianity as following the challenges of a disadvantage, it is an ad- last year’s COVID-19 pan- vantage for every company demic, the college did not only to have a Christian in their embark on online lectures in midst. He or she is not only response to the pandemic but responsible to the company also designed and fabricated but also to someone higher integrated sanitizer dispens- Former MD of Nigerian Breweries and Chairman, RECTEM Maiden Convocation Lecture, Felix Ohiwerei with the Rector of who sees all, knows all and ing machines to fight the virus. equally requires total com- RECTEM, Dr Stella Mofunanya during the event Mayowa Owolabi Consulting Commences Institutional Vatebra, UNDP Lead the Way Trading Course for Investors in Financial Market With CEWERS Kaduna Launch Tech Company, Vatebra Lim- Limited gave an executive The Institutional Trading sought-after financial market trading mastery knowledge In a session on what the ited has teamed up with the insight of CEWERS and its Course which is a subset of coach, serial entrepreneur and and best practices to interested course tends to offer to ap- United Nations Development benefits; which includes: a the Mayowa Owolabi Univer- an alumnus of the prestigious individuals through the In- plicants, he said, “Everything Program (UNDP) and the Ka- holistic view of the incident sity has begun registration of Lagos Business School, May- stitutional Trading Course. in the financial market starts duna State Peace Commission map of Kaduna State, engage yet another set of individuals owa Owolabi, referred to by The institution, which and ends with supply and (KSPC) in the deployment of communities to report early, interested in trading in the many as “The Authority” on has embarked on its vision demand which is the basis the Conflict Early Warning warning signals, initiate timely Financial Market (Forex, System Trading. to train and raise Ten Thou- of institutional trading.” and Early Response System response to reported warning Cryptocurrency, Stocks etc). Owolabi has also been sand (10,000) millionaires He said also any enquiry (CEWERS) solution, an inno- signals, control fake news The ongoing online registra- honoured with the award of in US Dollars, is bent on not about the Institutional vative security-tech solution spread, and generate data tion aims to take applicants the “Best Independent Busi- just creating a course for in- Trading Course, would be initiated by KSPC, sponsored for informed decisions and on a professional journey of ness Partner” by a top notch dividuals, but a community found on the website www. by UNDP and developed by policy making. hands-on experience and Silicon Valley Forex broker of traders who are willing to itctrading.info, adding that Vatebra Limited. Furthermore, the Regional astute practicality on how called Hot Forex in 2017. learn and earn together. the Institutional Trading The CEWERS application Head, Abuja Branch, Vatebra top financial institutions trade. With an extensive knowl- The course has been struc- Course training has been allows people in conflict areas Limited, Elsie Njoku spoke The Institutional Trading edge in trading in the fi- tured in a way that empowers designed with various in Kaduna State to properly about the CEWERS gover- Course is virtual and is being nancial market, Mayowa is applicants to trade with preci- preferential packages that capture and channel feedbacks nance structure. managed by Africa’s most determined to transmit his sion and dexterity. suit diverse applicants. by enabling security monitor- She explained that CE- ing groups and individual WERS will be an avenue for citizens to provide feedback the general public who will on the progress of elections, pose as anonymous to escalate Lord’s Chosen International Crusade Begins Tomorrow security situation, and crisis incidents. She gave insights within the state, both posi- on the roles of the various The Lord’s Chosen Charis- the Public Relation Officer bless His people and cause womb, intellectual and finan- tive and negative, to assure stakeholders in crisis reporting matic Revival Church is set to of the Church, Pastor Louis them to have unspeakable joy, cial barrenness, to deliverance timely counter-response by and management. hold its annual power packed Chidi, noted: “Through the adding, “It does not matter from physical challenges such appropriate authorities to Participants at the launch international crusade tagged, programme, God will assert how frustrated the enemy has as paralyses of all kinds, dis- avert violence or conflicts. included the Executive “God Has Sworn to Bless You” the fact that He is still the made you to be or the level of eases, sicknesses, economic The CEWERS application Governor of Kaduna State beginning from tomorrow Almighty God, Omniscience poverty you have been sub- and political challenges. developed by Vatebra Limited Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Saturday, July 31, to Sunday and custodian of blessings. jected to, what I can assure you Free transport arrangement will facilitate the gathering, Deputy Governor of Kaduna August 1, 2021 at The Cho- “Having seen our despon- is that God has sworn to bless has been made by the minis- analysis and visualisation State Hadiza Balarabe, Vice sen Revival Ground, Along dency, He took an oath to bless you and nobody can reverse try to convey participants to of data with geo-tagging Chairman, Kaduna State Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, us through the programme. it. No amount of conspiracy the venue from any location capabilities to represent the Peace Commission, Priscilla by Ijesha-Bus Stop, Lagos from He knows there would be a can scuttle the blessing of within the Lagos metropolitan level and the weighting of the Ankut, representatives of the 8am daily. The programme, time of public outcry and a God upon your life comes city. risks, conflicts, and responses. United Nations Development which is interdenominational, time to intervene and deliver this programme”. Also given the pandemic It is an integrated web, Program (UNDP), Embassy the church said, is meant to His people. The programme which will challenges, the Church’s task mobile app and SMS based of Norway, Director Plateau address all the hues and cries “He has time for everything, be presided over by the icon force on COVID-19 is standing system that is compatible with State Peace Building Agency, occasioned by COVID 19 time to weigh the burden of of revival evangelism, Pastor by to ensure all the govern- Android devices and tablets, Commissioner of Police, pandemic and its attendant His Children on the balance Lazarus Muoka, the release ment protocols are observed and can be downloadable Kaduna State, Secretary to economic, social and health and time to relieve them from stated, will witness salvation, during the programme. through the play store. Kaduna State Government, upset, not overlooking the that burden.” sanctification, Holy Ghost Most importantly, provision Speaking at the launch of representative of Civil Society threat of insecurity in the Chidi in the statement, baptism, deliverances from has been made for a digital- the CEWERS application; Organisations, representative country. noted further that the pres- spiritual limitation, demonic ised security measure that will Kenneth Omale, a Key Busi- of traditional leaders and A press release signed by ent time is time for God to possession, barrenness of the address any breach of order. ness Manager at Vatebra religious leaders. 30 THISDAY ˾   ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͯ

MUSIC SHOWBIZ E-TRENDS …Your weekly entertainment delight NOLLYWOOD BBNaija is Back, So is Celebrity Culture Rave Vanessa Obioha writes that the new season of Big Brother Naija is already setting off a celebrity culture rave, a trait that has become very synonymous with the show ig Brother Naija returned last weekend with two sizzling launch shows: Saturday for the male housemates and Sunday for the females. Expectedly, the show paraded an Barray of dashing and appealing housemates who will for the next two months battle for the grand prize of N90 million and the treasured crown of Big Brother Naija winner for the season. Fans of the show have already settled for their favourites, campaigning aggressively on social media with hashtags, memes, and of course a fascinating name for their fan clubs. Previous seasons have seen outstanding fan club names. Cee-C’s controversial antics during the ‘Double Wahala’ season led to the birth of the Spartans. For the 2019 winner Mercy Eke, her fans were simply known as Mercenaries. In 2020, fans pitched their tents with either Laycon — who won the season — and Erica, and the outcome was the emergence of two of the fiercest fan clubs in BBNaija history: the Icons and the Elites. The evolution of the show has undoubtedly BBNaija Diary Room influenced celebrity culture in Nigeria and impacted the nature of interactions on social ever make it to the house; the main feature media. of the show where all the top-notch drama, This parasocial relationship — a term for excitement, banter and talking points take an individual’s emotional relationship with place. a media personality, in this case, a TV reality Since production began in Nigeria in 2019, character — helps build the celebrity stature each season sees the house transformed. With of the contestants. the catchy theme ‘Shine Ya Eye’, the house With the wide reach of Big Brother Naija, is given an opulent and colourful look this arguably Africa’s biggest reality TV show season. because of the premium entertainment it Now that the game has kicked off, the 22 provides for viewers across the continent, housemates — Saga, Boma, Yerins, Liquorose, individuals looking to achieve celebrity status BBNaija housemates Arin, Emmanuel, JayPaul, Maria, WhiteMoney, see the platform as a quicker route to fame. Jackie B, Angel, Princess, Sammie, Cross, Niyi, A survey conducted by Plaqad in 2019 found Beatrice, Saskay, Peace, Nini, Yousef, Pere and that Big Brother Naija is the most-watched Tega — will have to use their creativity to show in Africa. Data from Keyhole and ID votes in the final week alone. In 2020, A good number of the housemates woo millions of viewers across the continent Africa showed that the show generated over that figure was almost quadrupled. The from the show’s inaugural season have and the UK where viewers can watch the 55 billion media impressions from July 19 to ‘Lockdown’ season attracted 900 million gone on to have successful careers. A show via streaming service Showmax to September 23, 2020, with the word ‘BBNaija’ votes across all platforms. notable example is Ebuka Obi-Uchendu vote for them. appearing over 20 million times on Twitter With these figures, one can arguably who currently hosts the show and is Like the theme boldly indicates, they have alone. say that one of the biggest media personalities to ‘shine their eyes’ and find out who the In the 2017 edition of Big Brother Naija Big Brother Naija has made instant out of Africa and a style icon. The suc- wildcards are by Sunday if they are to stay tagged ‘See Gobe’, over 170 million SMS votes celebrities out of the participants. Former cess stories of former housemates give in the game because, at the end of the day, were recorded in the course of the season. In housemates enjoy substantial social media young Nigerians the impetus to dream everyone is eyeing the coveted prize and 2019, the show polled over 240 million votes followings and leverage their popularity of becoming famous. BBNaija crown. But most importantly, getting during the season, with 50 million of those to make something for themselves. Yet, many are called, but only a few that celebrity status. For Esther, The Voice Nigeria S3 Winner, Hard Work Pays Off Vanessa Obioha For the finale, she performed connection between the coaches three songs. The first was a duet and the talents which is really with her fellow team member remarkable.” At first, Esther Benyeogo, win- KPee. The duo sang Nigerian fe- What is more remarkable ner of the First Bank-sponsored male singer Simi’s ‘Duduke’. She to Esther is that First Bank music reality TV show The Voice would later perform American supported the season and has Nigeria, had no intention to singer Josh Groban’s ‘You Raise pledged to do so in the next audition for the contest. Not that Me Up’ and English musician season. she wasn’t interested but having Adele’s ‘Hello’. “It’s great to see so much participated in other competitions Reflecting on that moment support from a financial where she had equally won, the before she was announced the institution even during a young songstress somehow felt winner of the season, Esther said period like this. First Bank’s at ease. that a lot was going through commitment to showcasing Then the calls began; everyone her mind. and supporting talents from wanted her to be on the show. “Moving from the blinds Nigeria is very commendable.” Friends, loved ones and family to knockouts to battles and Known for its commitment members sent the audition link the live shows, was enough to foster the economic empow- to her and encouraged her to go tension, most especially at erment of thousands of people for the competition. She would the live shows where your in the creative industry, First eventually give in. stay on the show was subject Bank’s presence on the show “I just saw it as an opportunity to the votes of the audience was conspicuous. From the to express myself and I also saw and fans. So, standing on that weekly inspirational quotes to the platform as an avenue to big stage already brought a lot the fans giveaways, the Bank spread the gospel,” she said in of tension. When you consider showed that it was dedicated a recent chat. the life-changing opportunity to providing financial stability Indeed, Esther was known for of becoming a winner, that is to young creative persons her faith during the competi- more tension than I have ever with a passionate appetite tion. There was hardly a time experienced. It was so much for success. when she didn’t attribute her FirstBank CEO, Adesola Adeduntan and Esther that I didn’t even realise that While she is indebted to performances to the Supreme my mouth was moving.” God for her success on the One. Anytime she was asked Though she has contested season, Esther is not ignorant how she felt after a performance, of Benin, she contested in a vocal competition the blind auditions. The coaches were so loved by in other music competitions, of others’ contributions. She is her answer was always “It is and took home the crown. In 2017, Esther was her rendition that they all turned their chairs for none have been outstanding grateful for the training offered God.” It was only a matter of crowned the winner of the talent hunt show her. She ended up choosing Darey as her coach. to her like The Voice Nigeria. by coaches and considered each time before fans began to laud God’s Children Great Talent. “Esther’s performances are magical,” said Darey “It is the only competi- stage of the season memorable. her for taking the gospel to the In all of these wins, only one thing stood out in a chat. “When she sings, it’s not for the show. tion that I know that even “From the training to the stage. for Esther: feedback. It’s just the way she makes you feel.” if you are not really up in winning point has really shown Esther’s journey into music “It is how people tell me they connect with my Throughout the season, her performances never your game, there were no that hard work pays off.” started in the children’s church. singing, the emotions they feel. It’s the highlight wavered. She was always saved from elimina- negative comments about The 23-year-old walked home At age 13, she participated in her and gives me the most amazing feeling when I tion, even when the audience had the power to your attempts. Rather, the with a cash prize of N10 mil- first music competition but didn’t get all this feedback,” she said. vote, Esther stayed on top. On YouTube, fans coaches give constructive lion, a recording contract with emerge the winner. However, She evoked similar reactions on the coaches had watched some of her performances more criticism that pushes you to be Universal Music Nigeria and while studying at the University when performed ‘Rise Up’ by Andra Day during than 100,000 times. better. It’s amazing to see the a car. THISDAY ˾   ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͯ ͱͯ  NOWA President Charges Graduands to Work Harder to Succeed

National President, Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA), Mrs. Aisha Gambo with the graduands Mrs. Gambo and FOC Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Jason Gbassa

Chiamaka Ozulumba focused in their studies. Also to secondary school. the stages, we are gathered of our future generation,” she Teachers Association (PTA) at the occasion was Flag Officer In her speech, Gambo urged here today to celebrate your added. Gambo applauded the Chairman, Mr Musa Wakawa, The National President, Naval Commanding (FOC), West- the graduands to continue to achievement. efforts of all the teachers, say- urged the graduands to focus Officers Wives Association ern Naval Command, Rear work hard and be determined “I am sure that your parents ing that they all played a role on building character and not (NOWA), Mrs. Aisha Gambo, Admiral Jason Gbassa, who to succeed no matter what as who have believed in you in shaping the destiny of the just intelligence. recently charged graduands of alongside NOWA president more challenges were bound through every phase of your children. “Your character is your iden- NOWA Nursery and Primary donated several plastic chairs to come their way in secondary academics for the past couple She specifically recognised tity not your intelligence. You School, to work harder so they and tables, as well as a giant school. She said: “Our lovely of years cannot be prouder.” Mrs Robert Rosemary and Mrs can memorise and comprehend can succeed in their respective size photocopying machine to babies proceeding to nursery She said the academic per- Adanko’ Rose (kindergarten encyclopaedias but without the endeavours. the school for use. sections and those that would formance and moral conduct of 2 teachers), Mrs Otejiri Eu- right character your chances in She gave this charge to the While 38 pupils graduated be moving to primary classes, I the pupils have been impressive nice and Miss Okezie Ngozi Iife are limited. “With the right 115 graduands of NOWA from kindergarten 2 to Nursery trust that I will see you in your and encouraging. (Nursery 2 teachers) and Mrs character there is no limit to Nursery and Primary School, one, 40 pupils graduated from next class by September. “I encourage parents to Oyedoyin Titilayo and LED what you can do, where you can Mobile Road, Apapa, just as Nursery 2 to Primary 1 while “Having conquered the chal- kindly continue to support us Isaac (Primary 5 teachers). go and who you can meet in the she urged them to remain 37 primary pupils graduated lenges that came with each of in the training and upbringing Also, the NOWA Parents, journey of life,” Wakawa said. Actress, Oghenekaro Itene Delves into Softcom Rolls Out New Products to Empower African Charity with The Agnes Fikieme Foundation Entrepreneurs Yinka Olatunbosun ing access to basic necessities. community , hence, the need businesses for many women Vanessa Obioha the company has a reputation According to Itene, the drive to keep her legacy on. and men. “She was award- for solving complex business Keeping up with her love for to create The Agnes Fikeme ‘’When the lockdown started, ing scholarships to those that With its mission to continu- problems. “X represents an- humanity, the US-based Nige- Foundation came during the the first people I thought of was wanted to be educated but had ally accelerate inclusion and swers to the problems of entre- rian Actress, Oghenekaro Itene time when Covid-19 was rag- the homeless folks. In my heart, no means to fulfill that dream. I growth for African entrepre- preneurs on all growth levels is embarking on her charitable ing hard in the country. Out of I had wondered how they will want to continue the work she neurs and businesses through and our steps in empowering cause with her organisation, her genuine care and love for survive cos this is a time we all did while she was here. The ingenious tech products, them with an ecosystem of The Agnes Fikeme Foundation. those in this disadvantaged needed to stay home, stay safe. Agnes Fikieme Foundation is innovation and technology tools to succeed and reach The foundation is a non-profit position, The Agnes Fikieme No home for the homeless. I aimed at reducing homeless- company, Softcom Limited, their full potential.” organization with the aim of Foundation was birthed to wept for them and prayed for ness, educating and empow- recently held a pre launch He continued: “When you engaging in life-changing reduce homelessness and direction and discernment. And ering girls. Every homeless event themed ‘Unveiling have the tools that you need, events and immeasurable hopelessness in the community. I got an answer, “The Agnes person has a story. We want X’, to announce its array of you can identify people better, community services. Also, her late mother whom Fikieme Foundation”. to hear it and see what can be new products which is now you can sell better, you have The mission of the founda- she named the foundation after The foundation was named done to help the situation. Our available. an account of your money. In tion is to enhance the standard was a very charitable person after her mother because when vision is to have a future where The event which was held a lot of cases, it is just being of living in the community and and one who was always con- she was alive, she helped everyone have equal access to at Softcom’s headquarters in able to understand how to increase its efficiency through cerned about the livelihood of strangers, the homeless and a resourceful and sustainable Ikeja GRA assembled entre- combine different elements. advocacy, mentoring and creat- everyone around her and in her devoted time towards building society,” she said. preneurs and influencers from In the innovating process, we different sectors that cut across built around critically looking tech, fashion, beauty, lifestyle, into our journey and carrying food, and retail, to deliver an out extensive researches to Schneider Electric Proposes Digital Solutions to in-depth lecture on the pur- properly reflect it on busi- pose, functionality, benefits nesses to figure out when of the products, and how it to start, stop, or continue a Maximise Value Creation, Sustainability will improve transactions and particular process with these Chiamaka Ozulumba Nigeria Oil & Gas Conference and security threats; are driv- transformation is an enabler; evaluate progress easily. products” and Exhibition, which held in ing the need to innovate with which makes design, commis- In an onboarding session on Furthermore, the company Schneider Electric has identi- Abuja with the theme, “Fortify- digital solutions. sioning, and implementation the company’s rise in the tech says its products will enable fied five key areas that can help ing the Nigerian Oil and Gas With all these challenges, he easier across the entire asset landscape, the CEO of Soft- people and businesses to ad- energy companies to maximise Industry for Economic Stability said that the primary concern lifecycle, while improving com, Yomi Adedeji, elaborated dress the need to exchange value creation, profitability and and Growth”. of most operating companies productivity and operations on the company’s earliest value and data collation on sustainability through digital In his presentation titled is to ensure safe, reliable, and across the digital value chain. innovative phases since its consumer behaviours. transformation. “Driving Operational Prof- compliant operations - while Akindele enjoined oil & gas inception in 2007, and the Executive Secretary of the The areas identified are itability Through Digital managing energy costs and companies to start small in their subsequent growth it achieved MTN Foundation, Nonny Process Optimisation; Digital Transformation”, Akindele other operational costs. strategy and adoption; but start amid crushing challenges it Ugboma expressed confidence Planning & Operations; Digital stated that the current market He noted that producers in now to maintain and improve faced. He ended the lecture by in the company’s ambitious Workforce Knowledge Capture dynamics have increased the the upstream market, pipeline their competitive market and explaining the purpose and moves. & Retention; Improved Safety need to improve operational ef- operators in the midstream industry position, adding that ideologies that inspired the “Watching them grow over & Regulatory Compliance; and ficiency at Oil & Gas companies. market and refineries in the digital transformation is part of company to design and build the years as a team of young Digital Asset Performance. Other challenges including downstream market can an ongoing journey involving solutions to enable growth for brilliant people, I have just General Manager Sub- an aging workforce, and the make the right technology the collaboration of people, entrepreneurs in Africa. been in awe. I believe that X Saharan Africa for Schneider need for upstream producers investments, while maintaining processes, and assets through The company’s Chief is just going to be something Electric Process Automation, seeking to produce crude safely global competitiveness through digital technology and it should Operating Officer, Seindemi else, I am fully on board with Mr. Ajibola Akindele, stated and economically, amid increas- digital transformation. be done in phases rather than Olobayo in a highly engaging them because I know they are this at the just concluded 2021 ing environmental pressures, He averred that digital all at once. discussion session, said that dreamers and thinkers.” 32 THISDAY ˾   ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͯ

ART WEEKEND…For pure art enthusiasts Nigeria-Norway Co-production Ighiwiyisi Jacob Ignites Lagos ‘The Lost Café’ Comes to Netflix Yinka Olatunbosun

On Saturday 31 July, Netflix will release with Debut Solo Exhibition The Lost Café, a film directed by Kenneth Gyang and produced by Regina Udalor. A Nigeria and Norway co-production, The From being an interior designer to shouldering the responsibility of being the daughter of the Lost Café is an intensely realist depiction of the struggles faced by Nigerian immi- legendary artist, Erhabor Emokpae, the co-founder of the Gallery at the Landmark, Ighiwiyisi Jacobs grants—as filtered through the experiences of a young woman. makes a debut on the Lagos visual art scene with her solo show. Yinka Olatunbosun reports Udalor makes her Netflix debut with ghiwiyisi Jacobs is many things to many the film, starring Tunde Aladese and the Norwegian actor Anders Lidin Hansen people: a great speaker, lawyer by train- alongside Terje Bruun Lien and Nigerian ing, writer and entrepreneur. But not actor Omatta Udalor. everyone could have thought of her as an While reflecting on the production, artist some years ago. An emerging visual Udalor said she hopes it is the start of more Iand spatial artist, she is the creative director collaborations between Nigeria and the of Hermosa Boda, a spatial design service that European country as both countries can learn from each other. has run successfully since 2015. A graduate of “As a resident of Norway for over a half Law at the , she began her decade, I have observed several similarities journey in visual arts as a child surrounded between Norway and Nigeria; many dif- by the art of her father, Erhabor Emokpae, the ferences, too. And I think there are things visual flair of her mother, Ikpakpa Emokpae Norway can learn from Nigeria and vice and her brother Isaac Emokpae, himself a versa. The Lost Café is our way of bridging well-established artist and confidante for her. the gap that currently exists between both Apart from being the Creative Director of countries,” Udalor said. a custom production design company, she While Udalor is optimistic about the film enjoys shopping. Once, she was submerged attracting audiences in both producing in surround merchandising at a shopping mall countries, filming for The Lost Café was for hours. She was curious as to how she lost hardly smooth. The Nigeria-based crew hit the sense of time and then discovered that the a snag when they had their visas refused visually-appetizing art designs for the window by the European authorities, leading to an displays could have been the reason. Hence, improvisation that saw Udalor recruit local she developed a keen interest in window personnel to shoot the film’s Norway scenes. merchandising. Part of her work had been to “It was a difficult process that required us build a production set design in lieu of the usual to think up solutions to problems we likely balloon-themed backdrops at parties. would not have had if we had filmed in one Her name-Ighiwiyisi bears a burden of history country,” she said. “We are thankful that tied to her late father. The name was given to Ighiwiyisi at work we could get it done and now the film can her by her father at about a period when he be seen by anyone with a Netflix account.” travelled away from Nigeria. her eureka moment, she recalled how she works on canvas, she explores impasto The film follows a Nigerian graduate “Ighiwiyisi means I will not be lost in a strange began to make drawings that she ordinarily and expressionism amongst others. With student who has come to Norway to study land,” she said as she explained why that was would have paid an artist to make. emphasis on female portraits, art is her to become a film director. Overwhelmed by the select title for her debut show. “We were fully booked and there was long-awaited catharsis. loneliness in the new country, she begins to The show is a personal journey for this bud- no one to do the artwork. I needed to put “I want people to see themselves and visit a café where she finds and befriends ding artist whose father is regarded as one of the design down for the production. I sat appreciate the journey. I want people a nice elderly man who serves her coffee the pioneers of modern arts in Nigeria. down to sketch. On that day, I sat down at to use my journey to appreciate theirs. but may be hiding a secret. He becomes “There are many moments of my life captured the table and I was just drawing. I didn’t We want people who are almost giving her confidant—but it is not long before on canvas. The idea is to find specific things that want to miss that moment. This is why the up on life to see that is gets better. You she must confront her own fears and the are common to humanity. Everyone understands exhibition will open on August 8. I call it can be gifted and be mediocre. You must secret held by her new friend. grief, heartbreak, promises and prophecies,’’ an impartation. I don’t see myself as an treat that gift properly apply yourself The Lost Café is Gyang’s third film on the she continued. artist but as a channel-God draws through to it daily. If you are gifted and you put American streaming platform and comes Her father died a year after she was born. me,’’ she said. in dedication, there’s no telling where after his widely seen and highly acclaimed Fast-forward to August 8, 2018 which became With eight works on panel and four you’d go,’’ she added. film, Oloture, which was released as a Netflix Original in 2020. According to Nollywood insiders, Gyang is currently involved in an unnamed project, which might also surface hFACTOR Unveils Earth-shaking Docu-film on Evictions for DevelopmentIndustry on Netflix. For her part, Udalor is working on the Yinka Olatunbosun Golden Brush show, a reality TV project featuring make-up artists selected from hFACTOR in partnership with Heinrich Boll across Nigeria. “We will announce the Stiftung is set to screen an earth-shaking show when we are through with one or documentary film in Lagos. The docu-film is two touches,” she said. “For now, we are centred on the social impact of evictions with focused on The Lost Café, which every a view to question whether the developmental lover of film—and anyone contemplating goals behind demolitions and evictions are immigration—should definitely see.” indeed in the interest of the public. Titled, “Dispossess: Evictions for Devel- opment?’’ the documentary reveals how government, in its bid to build a mega-city had executed major evictions of people from their homes and places of work to make room for such developmental projects. On Friday July 30, the exhibition A view of Badia-east Demolition Exercise hall of the National Museum, Onikan will be development in the context of economics and residents, the users and letting them have a populated by stakeholders drawn from the public interest. The movement artist, Hermes say in developmental matters.’’ real estate developers, Lagos State govern- Iyele, who featured in the documentary would The Space Manager, hFACTOR, Tushar ment, traders’ associations, advocates and also stage a performance on the abuse of Hathiramani noted that creative thinking is journalists as there would be conversations public and private landownership after the necessary in the process of real estate develop- after the film exhibition. For over ten years, screening. ment that matches the needs of the people. market places and informal settlements in “It is going to be an on-going campaign. Citing the crisis of land as an example, he Lagos had been demolished and replaced We have a one-year agenda,’’ the legal of- said one of the objectives of setting up hFAC- with real estate or ultra-modern market ficer, hFACTOR, Dolapo Osunsina said. TOR is the artistic transformation of unused structures that are hard to attract traders She further remarked that the real estate public spaces and engage local communities. and customers. development in Lagos is tilted towards the hFACTOR is a collective made up of Tushar To this end, a presentation titled “Four elite. “It is not about how do we generate Hathiramani, Dolapo, Bubu Ogisi and Osione Myths on the Lagos Land and Real Estate social values. A lot of people don’t have who collaborate with people everywhere to Market will feature an Associate Professor access to these infrastructures. How do we uncover creative possibilities from under- of Urban Planning, University of Lagos, Dr. ensure that the private and public sectors utilised physical and conceptual spaces. The Taibat Lawanson as well as the Founder and are working together to ensure that social collective is concerned with issues such as Director of research and policy at Spaces for values are generated? In developing these youth empowerment, employability, educa- Change, Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri. In addition, structures, government have to complement tion programme and FRAT, that is a biennial a panelist session will discuss the concept of what is on ground. It is about consulting the art incubator programme and festival. The movie poster for ‘The Lost Cafe THISDAY ˾   ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͯ ͱͱ 

Prodigy of Dayo Akinbode, an iPhone Photographer With no formal education or training in photography, popular marathoner and cyclist, Dayo Akinbode, who recently held a three-day ‘Colours and Flavours’ photo exhibition in Lagos State, spoke to Sunday Ehigiator on what led to her sojourn in photography, even so with a mobile device What else should we know about you? am 54 years old. I am not a professional photographer. I was trained to be an engineer, then along the line I became a Chartered Accountant, and then along the line I studiedI supply chain. So, I had no formal training in the act of photography How did you become interested in photography? I think it has always been in me but it didn’t come out until I started to travel. And after I retired, I was no longer in the rat race. When I came out of the rat race, I was able to stop, smell the coffee, smell the roses, admire my environment, and see the beauty in the whole world. There is beauty in the whole world, but then in other places, I see beauty and the way it’s embraced. But this beauty isn’t as good as the one back in my country. So I decided to start capturing and documenting the beauty in Lagos. Because when people talk about Lagos, what comes to mind is traffic, heap of rubbish, fraudsters, and that’s what few of them would tell you. However, every city has the good, the bad and the ugly. So I said to myself, I’m a proud Nigerian. Let the CNN’s and the BBC’s talk about the bad and the ugly if they want to, I am going to showcase the good of my city. That’s why I started documenting this and sharing. Some people then saw my work and said no, you can’t keep this to your phone just for yourself, you need to show the world especially Lagosians, so they see the beauty in their city and appreciate their city better. How long have you been into this? Since COVID-19 Pandemic struck; I have traveled a lot. In a whole year, I hardly spend up to 30 days in Nigeria. But when COVID came, I couldn’t go anywhere. And being that I love to turn lemon into lemonade, I decided to put myself together and see what I can do, and that was how it began. What has been the reaction to your works from the exhibition? I’m even surprised because I did not expect the kind of reaction or feedback I’m getting. When I sit with people and show them pictures on my phone, they are always amazed and short of words. They say they never knew those places were these beautiful. So this kind of feedback makes me go out more to take more pictures and want to show the world. Why photography with a phone? Actually, I have all the big cameras that you can ever think of. But these cameras are heavy. And my pictures are mostly unaware pictures. They are candid. I am a marathoner and cyclist, so while running or cycling and something catches my attention, I stop and record it. Even this morning, I was running through Dayo Akinbode standing by some of the works she did with her iPhone a dirty drainage and I saw these little flowers growing inside the dirty pond, I stopped and It’s only a 15 minutes window within the took the shot. And I titled that, Beauty in sunrise or sunset. If you miss it, you have to the Gutters. wait for another day. So I love the water, I You can’t carry those heavy cameras There is beauty in the whole world, but love the sound of the waves, so I can just sit everywhere, but I go everywhere with my there and listen to the sound of the waves. phone. So the phone is easily conveyed without then in other places, I see beauty and the anyone noticing you snapping unlike the big How do you feel when Nigerians fail to cameras. So that’s what gave birth to the idea. way it’s embraced. But this beauty isn’t see the beauty in their country? It makes me feel very upset, because God How fulfilling has this been for you? as good as the one back in my country. has really blessed us with a lot of things. Good I believe in God and I don’t believe in weather, beautiful landscapes, and flowers coincidence. I believe that you have a part, So I decided to start capturing and etc. Just peep through this window. It annoys and even though you have rigmaroled and me when you ask a youth what’s next, and gone, you will eventually come back to your documenting the beauty in Lagos. his next thought is how to leave the country. path. You see, that place you want to go, the So I believe I have been out of my part for people embraced what they had, nurtured it 50 years with good pay. This doesn’t give me me see myself in a different light. And if I get to a place the first thing I’m and made it what it is today. We have what money, but it gives me fulfillment and gives asking is, when sunrise is, and what time it takes. We cannot wait for the government. me satisfaction. What is so attached with water that is sunset, because it differs from place to Everyone in your own little corner, do It makes me feel, finally, I am pursuing is common with most of your works? place, seasons to seasons. Even in Nigeria, something that you can do. Little drops of what makes me feel fulfilled. Yesterday we Beaches are my favorite places. Anywhere it changes. water eventually make a mighty ocean. had a group of trained photographers who I am in any part of the world, I wake up So my normal routine is, I wake up in I don’t wait for the government. In my little came here to see my work, and they told me in the morning, and I ask where the closest the morning, go to the beach which is space, I do what I can and try to showcase that they want to learn from me. river or ocean is. I even know the smell about 1.5km from where I stay. I want the good side of my country. So I would But I told them, you have nothing to learn without even asking. And I can trace it. I to get there just before the sunrise. I also encourage youth to take a clue from this from me because I didn’t learn anything and am very adventurous. So I walk towards target the blue hour which is just before as well, and together, let’s make Nigeria don’t have anything to give you. So it makes where the water is and finally stumble on it. the sunrise, and just after sunset. great again. ͱͲ THISDAY ˾   ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͯ  Engineer Turned Marketer Becomes Chancellor of University of the West Scotland Renown for strategy, sales and marketing, with a background in engineering, the Co-founder and Executive Director, Doqaru Limited, an Aberdeen-based sales and marketing consultancy, Yekemi Otaru is on the next flight to greater heights with her appointment as the new Chancellor-elect of the University of West Scotland. Yinka Olatunbosun writes he announcement of Yekemi Otaru as the Chancellor-elect of the University of Scotland was received with so much excitement by Nigerians Tacross the globe. Otaru is expected to take up the role on September 1, succeeding Dame Elish Angiolini. Described as a “tireless passionate supporter of women in business,” the Nigerian-British entrepreneur has been a trailblazer in innovative business marketing practice. The first of three children of Dr Raphael and Mrs Sarah Awoseyin of Ayedun in Oke-Ero Local Government Area of Kwara State, her younger siblings are Mrs Adenike Onyia, a geologist and educationist based in the UK and Raphael Segun Awoseyin, a software professional based in France. Named of 40 under 40 business innovators by Scottish Business News in 2016, Otaru is a B2B Marketer with a strategic focus. She works with start-ups, SMEs and large corporate organisations in the Software, IT, Engineering, Business Support, Recruitment and Oil & Gas sectors. She ran her first marketing consultancy company, YO! Marketing, for nearly three years and served over 20 clients before launching Doqaru Limited, the product of a merger in November 2018. Otaru had always had a knack for creativity. Weaned on poetry and prose, she was encouraged to study engineering by her parents. She obtained her first of four degrees in Chemical Engineering, worked in an oil and gas company as a petroleum engineer while she was still trying to figure out what she really wanted to become. She got curious as to why people sell certain products to certain customers. She was an atypical engineer- extroverted and creatively- inclined. Many engineers thought she was different, if not annoying. Fortunately for her, she had very accommodating managers who allowed her to explore other areas of business. That was the birth of her passion for marketing. With that background in engineering, she approaching marketing with technical knowledge and an analytical mind. In time, she developed her expertise around marketing. “I was always looking for new ways of doing things,’’ she said in a televised interview. “I was interested in designs. I am a communicator and I had always written. I don’t think I would have got that opportunity anywhere else.’’ Nonetheless, that transition was a very difficult for her but equipped with an MBA (distinction) with a specialty in change management and marketing in a high tech company. She deployed her data-driven tools into sales and marketing consultancy. Otaru is on the board at Interface, a public sector backed establishment helping Scottish businesses work more closely with academic institutions to drive innovative projects. She has over 14 years of experience in petroleum engineering, technical sales and strategic marketing roles. Otaru Having previously worked for Schlumberger, GE Oil & Gas and Lloyd’s Register with an added panache of MSc (Distinction) in Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Otaru is I eagerly look forward to being part of also a best-selling author on social networks. the university, as it continues to carry out She is passionate about supporting girls in I am honoured to have been appointed world-class research and knowledge transfer STEM, mentoring business owners in the initiatives such as in the areas of healthcare poorest countries, photography and creative chancellor-elect of University of the West and sports science.” writing. She is interested in mentoring women Professor Craig Mahoney, principal and with a technical background who want to of Scotland, following in the footsteps of vice-chancellor at UWS, added: “Yekemi’s develop business and commercial acumen values very much align with those of UWS, as part of their career progression plan. a remarkable individual in Dame Elish from her passion for advancing equality, One of the challenges for her back then as diversity and inclusion to her commitment to an engineer was that she didn’t see a role Angiolini...I eagerly look forward to being enterprise, and her appointment is reflective model- a formidable female engineer at the of our strategic mission to make a positive helm of innovative solutions or anything part of the university, as it continues difference to wider society. within that perimeter. But today, her career “Yekemi is a remarkable example of progression has been inspirational for many to carry out world-class research and entrepreneurship and a tremendous role women professionals, especially the younger model for our students and wider university generation. knowledge transfer initiatives such as in community. I am delighted to welcome her As chancellor, she will hold formal powers to the UWS family. to confer degrees, diplomas and other the areas of healthcare and sports science “I would also like to pay tribute to Dame academic distinctions, and will represent Elish Angiolini, who has been an outstanding UWS at key events as an advocate and chancellor and ambassador for the university. dignitary. the West of Scotland, following in the “We are all living through challenging I am deeply grateful for the committed and She said: “I am honoured to have been footsteps of a remarkable individual in times, and higher education plays a vital inspirational role she has played in our UWS appointed chancellor-elect of University of Dame Elish Angiolini. role in society and for our economy. community.” THISDAY ˾   ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͯ ͱͳ

 Celebrating Emmanuel Udom

Peter Adobamen

e was born into the family of Mr. Gabriel Emmanuel Nkenang, a native of Awa Iman in Onna Local Government, on Monday, July 11, 1966. Mr. Gabriel Emmanuel Udom, Hthe 4th democratically elected Governor of Akwa Ibom State had his secondary school education in Secondary Commercial School, Ikot Akpan Ishiet, Onna LGA of Akwa Ibom State, from where he obtained his West African Examination Council’s Certificate (WAEC). From there, he went on to attend the School of Arts and Science, Uyo, where he received his Advanced Certificate of Basic Studies (CBS) and a Higher School Certificate (HSC). He thereafter proceeded to University of Lagos, Nigeria, for his tertiary education, where he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, in 1988, with a Second Class Upper Honours. Going forward, he obtained his advanced management program from Institut Europeen d’Administration Des Affaires (INSEAD) in Fontainebleau, France, and a Master’s Degree in Corporate Governance from Leeds Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom. In the 1990s’, Mr Udom worked in Price Water House Coopers, a multinational professional services network of firms, where he served as an audit manager, before proceeding to work with the then Diamond Bank Plc, now Access Bank Plc. At the age of 30, from Diamond Bank, he moved Zenith Bank in 1996, being the pioneer manager of its Lagos Central Branch. In the 17 years Governor Udom worked in the Bank, he occupied the post of Non-Executive Director in Zenith Bank Sierra Leone, The Gambia and United Kingdom. He held the same post in other sister companies of the bank such as Zenith Pension & Custodian, Zenith Trustees, Zenith Insurance, Zenith Registrars and Zenith Securities. Governor Udom was thereafter elevated to the post of Executive Director. His job description entailed direct supervision of Foreign Subsidiaries of Zenith Bank, overseeing Infrastructure and Power Sector, Corporate Financial Advisory Services and Control. It also included Business Development, International Investors’ Relations, Oil & Gas Sector, Corporate Strategy and Planning, Governor Emmanuel Udom Multilaterals, Conglomerates and Private Banking (MCP) as well as the Telecommunications sector. In 2013, he journeyed into the world of politics, when he was appointed Secretary to the State Government, by former Governor and former shifts. As a result of its high quality, there is so Senate Minority Leader, Mr. Godswill Akpabio, It is our earnest belief that at the end of much demand for its electricity metres, which who is the current Minister of Niger Delta Affairs. it supplies to Eko, Kano and Port Harcourt Following the gubernatorial primaries held in the budget year, the state will have moved Electricity Distribution Companies. Furthermore, December 2014 where he defeated 22 other the company exports its metres to The Gambia governorship aspirants, Governor Udom was very close to actualising the dreams and and Liberia. The company is exploring exports to elected overwhelmingly into office on April 11, Niger Republic and Zambia. The establishment 2015, with a total of 999,071 votes, defeating aspirations of this administration, which of these companies will inevitably lead to the APC’s candidate Umana Okon Umana who creation of more jobs, and positively impact the scored 89,865 votes. He repeated the same is to transform this state from a ‘civil health and power sector. victorious feat in 2019 when he was elected In terms of aviation, Akwa Ibom is the only for a second term. service’ state to an industrialised one state in Nigeria with an airline company, Ibom His first tenure was anchored on a 5 point Air. Commencing operations in 2019, Ibom Air agenda. His areas of focus were Wealth Creation, currently has a fleet of seven bombardiers CRJ In furtherance of entrepreneurship service state to a fully industrialized state. 900 aircraft, and currently covers 6 destinations Economic and Political Inclusion, Poverty development, the Udom led administration While presenting the 2021 budget tagged Alleviation, Infrastructural Consolidation (Uyo, Lagos, Abuja, Calabar, Port Harcourt and undertook the construction of Akwa Ibom the ‘Budget of Economic Reconstruction’, Enugu). The airline which has an unmatched and Expansion, as well as Job Creation. In Traders ultra-modern market, Mbak Ikot His Excellency stated that “It is our earnest his interview with Business Day News Editor, record of schedule reliability and on-time Oku, with 25,000 shops, a Bank, Clinic, belief that at the end of the budget year, departure, has employed Akwa Ibomites not Osa Victor Obayagbona, His Excellency rated Fire and Police Stations, and trained 200 the state will have moved very close to himself highly in the implementation of his 5 just in low and entry level to senior positions, Akwa Ibom youths trained on solar panel actualizing the dreams and aspirations of but in the very highly skilled aviation professions point agenda. He said” I think given the dire installation/maintenance. It also provided this administration, which is to transform economic circumstance that welcomed us in of Piloting, Cabin Crew and Aircraft Maintenance over N2,000,000,000 interest free loan for this state from a ‘civil service’ state to an Engineering, numbering over 200. According to our first term, given the depression we had small scale entrepreneurs and traders. industrialized one”. experienced, the fluctuating rate of the naira Aniekan Essienette, Group Manager, Marketing As regards infrastructural consolidation Two projects that stand out are Jubilee and Communications of the Airline, Ibom Air’s against other foreign currencies, the dip in oil and expansion, the Emmanuel Udom Syringe Manufacturing Company and prices which affected our allocations, that we direct and indirect impact on Akwa Ibom’s administration has delivered on its promises. Metering Solutions Manufacturing Services livelihood and businesses amounted to over one were able to achieve as much as we did… I Some of the completed projects include the Limited. With a production capacity of 350 think without sounding boastful, I will score billion naira, just in its first year of operation. dualization of the 19.5km Eket – Ibeno Road, million, the Jubilee Syringe Manufacturing No doubt, Ibom Air has come to stay, and its us 85%”. 12.742 km Awa Iman – Asong – Ikot Edim Company is the largest syringe company In the agricultural sector alone, some notable contribution to the industrialization of the state – Ikot Emem road with 2No Bridges in in the entire Africa. The company which is cannot be overlooked. His Excellency has also achievements of the Udom Emmanuel led Onna and Mkpat Enin Local Government located in Awa, Onna Local Government Area, administration, include Establishment of large made great in the health sector, education sector, Areas, Emergency Rehabilitation of Okopedi was established in 2017, for the purpose of sports sector, among others, too numerous to hybrid rubber nursery at Ebighi Anwa, Okobo Road By Community Health Centre through producing disposable syringes of different L.G.A in partnership with Rubber Research be listed in this article. Oti – Oron in Okobo Local Government sizes, 2mL, 5mL, 10mL. It should be noted Governor Udom is a Christian and serving Institute of Nigeria, for distribution to rubber Area, Construction Of Gully Erosion Control that the syringes are made from the best farmers at highly subsidized rates; the refurbishing Deacon the United Evangelical Church (QIC) of Cassava Processing Factories at Ikot Okudom, Facilities at Oron/Isangedighi Road. Other quality raw materials. Little wonder that (formerly known as Qua Iboe Church). He completed projects include the 6.1km Atan the company, just recently, bagged the is happily married to his beautiful wife, Her Eket L.G.A; Nung Udoe, Ibesikpo/Asutan LGA Offot Road in Uyo Local Government Area, International Organisation for Standardization and Ikot Ekang in Abak L.G.A and leasing to Excellency, Mrs. Martha Udom Emmanuel, the 5.1km Internal Roads in Akwa Ibom (ISO) certification for quality, having whose pet Project is Family Empowerment private operators for the production of high State University, Obio Akpa, as well as the conformed with the requirements of ISO quality garri, odourless fufu and cassava and Youth Reorientation Programme (FEYReP). 4.6km School of Arts and Science Road, 9001:2015 and ISO 13485:2016, International Some of the objectives of the initiative include flour; Procurement and distribution of 30,000 Nung Ukim, Ikono Local Government Area. Standards. Located also in Awa, Onna Local Hybrid Plantain Suckers to 700 farmers as well empowering women to provide economic and In his second term, the agenda of Government Area, is the wholly-owned emotional support to their families, advocacy for as Installation of Maize Preservation/Shelling Governor Udom was anchored on 8 points: indigenous company, Metering Solutions Machine at Nung Udoe. Establishment of the prevention of teenage pregnancies, education Industrialization, Aviation Development, Rural Manufacturing Services Limited, whose goal for the girl child, promotion of moral values demonstration plots on various agricultural and Riverine Area Development, Agriculture, is to meet the metering needs of Nigeria. technologies for transfer of improved technologies and economic excellence, as well as providing Human Capacity Development, Security, Working one shift, the company currently has support to government efforts towards sustainable to farmers through Akwa Ibom Agricultural Infrastructure, Small and Medium Scale the capacity to produce 1,200,000 electricity Development Programme (AKADEP); Planting of development. Their union is blessed with four Enterprises. In terms of industrialization, metres annually. Its capacity will increase children. 500 citrus seedlings, 600 hybrid plantain suckers the drive of Governor Udom is fueled by to 3,600,000 electricity metres annually if and 1,000 pineapple suckers at the Horticulture his desire to transform the state from a civil the production shift is increased to two Garden in Uyo LGA amongst others. t"EPCBNFOXSPUFJOGSPN-BHPT THISDAY ˾   ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͯ ͱʹ

METRO …Your city life in print Overland Champions Call for Investment in Dominican Republic Precious Ugwuzor the Dominican Republic”. That means you’re making less gerians can take advantage of. ship opportunity is a possible Dominican Republic, you own Overland Properties is in than $10,000 for an investment He said: “These opportuni- advantage open to individuals it forever. The annual property For those interested in invest- partnership with Punta Cana of N250million. ties offer freehold titles with who meet certain investment tax is one per cent. In 15 to 20 ing in real estate or own homes DineCaribe Realty, a property “With N250million, you can secure and guaranteed returns criteria as prescribed by the days you will have a title of abroad, Managing Director of firm in the Dominion Republic, buy almost five properties in of investment. Moreso, because government as incentives ownership of the property,” Overland Investment Proper- and Aftermath Solicitors, a Punta Cana, and the return on it offers great tourism potential, to credible investors and in- Laba said. ties Ltd, Adebiyi Modile, has Lagos law firm. each property there is $10,000 this offers a huge attraction for vestments in the Dominican A property developer in the revealed that investing in the On the benefits of invest- annually after tax. Where investors from across the globe. Republic.” Dominican Republic, Mr Isaac Dominican Republic is at- ing in the Caribean country, would you rather invest in?” “The Caribbean nation also A representative of Punta Funis, said the country offers tractive because it guarantees Modile said: “If you buy Principal Partner of After- offers good tax incentives not Cana DC, Mr Liemier Laba, said something different. higher returns. a four-bedroom duplex in math Solicitors, Mr Tunde only for real estate investment Dominican Republic has direct He said: “Nigerians tradi- He spoke in Lagos at a real Lekki for instance, it will cost Koya, said there are real estate but for potential corporate flights from 26 major countries, tionally like to invest in US, UK estate breakfast meeting on you about N250million and investment opportunities in bodies who wish to give their while the major currencies of and Dubai. We want to present “how to own a residential home the return on investment for the Caribbean country of the business a global flavour.. the world are accepted there to them something a little bit and investment properties in a rental is N7million annually. Dominican Republic that Ni- “The option of a dual citizen- “If you buy a property in the different and new. TigerWit Africa Trains 840 Nigerians in Financial Market in PH Rebecca Ejifoma “A lot of people lose money payment,” hinting that some blindly which is unnecessary. If of them are even doing much Determined to bridge the we can help them trade longer, better than what banks can knowledge gap in financial we can be guaranteed a sus- give them in a year. market, a brokerage firm that tained client-base in the long In his views, it is known offers Forex, TigerWit Africa, run, a win-win situation,” that the interest rates on fixed has successfully trained over he added. deposits from banks are not 840 Nigerians in a two-week According to the head enticing enough. “That is workshop in Port-Harcourt, of education, one good not so in Forex; you become the Rivers State capital. thing is in times like this, profitable from the start.” The two weeks training, COVID-19 has taught “us “However, we dissuaded facilitated by the Head of that you can’t depend on one beginners from going for big Education, TigerWit Africa, Mr. source of income; you need a profits. Two, three or five per Davies Babalola and his team source of income that is not cent on a monthly basis is through the TigerWit Academy, dependent on the economy Cross section of participants during the workshop in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State recently okay for you, not going was to save Nigerians from of your nation”. for 20 or 30 per cent. Let it losing income in this time of The forex expert also be- is on lockdown everybody digital marketing. That was To begin the business, the compound for six months bleeding economy and global moaned how naira is degrading can’t go out how do you make what everybody was doing.” expert said one needs a lap- or one year, you will see a pandemic. while conceding that “we are money and feed?” He, however, listed some ad- top, mobile phone you use whole game change.” In an interview with THIS- in a very tough situation. That During the heat of the chaotic vantages of the forex business. for WhatsApp, and must be With half of the total DAY, Babalola said TigerWit naira is degrading doesn’t mean lockdown, Babalola confirmed “You don’t have any overhead. above 18. “We have been able participants as female, the Academy has been passionate the whole world is also. that Forex trading had the larg- The only thing you need is to to channel them to alternate head of education described about helping people after it “So can we take advantage of est Google search keywords. set up an account with your way of making income with women as very enterprising. noticed a knowledge gap in technology? COVID-19 taught “Search like Forex trading broker, then put in 100 or 200 no risk of entry, no barrier, no Others included retirees, the industry. us that what if the whole world online business, home trading, dollars.” unnecessary overhead, no staff pensioners, and students. Gov Obaseki’s Wife Organises State Wedding Fun, Renewed Unity as Itsekiri Nation Celebrates Reception for Stranded Couple Late Ikenwoli at Final Rites Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City Sylvester Idowu in Warri gathered.

Wife of Edo State Governor, Activities marking the final The unique event however Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, recently funeral rites for the late 20th Olu was held amidst heavy security organised a wedding party for of Warri, Ogiame Ikenwoli held presence and lasted from the Mr. and Mrs. Abel Eromosele recently at Ode-Itsekiri in Warri dusk of Saturday till the dawn Ugiagbe, the couple whose South Local Government Area of Sunday with guests and marriage ceremony was of Delta State with entertain- Indigenes thoroughly frisked disrupted by the absence of ment and homages in honour before being allowed into the the Registrar of the Federal of the departed monarch. town hall. Marriage Registry, in the state The 14 days final rites, which THISDAY learnt that the capital, Benin City began with a vigil, turned out heavy security presence was The wedding reception to be a gathering of the Itsekiri to forestall any form of unrest, which held at the New Festival nation as natives, joined by following the tension that has Hall of the Edo State Govern- neighbours and well-wishers, accompanied the succession ment House, had in attendance, trooped into the Itsekiri ances- process for the stool, and more the Wife of the Deputy Gov- tral home to share the joy of recently the development at a ernor of Edo State, Her Excel- the event. The significance High Court sitting in Warri, L-R: Wife of Edo State Governor, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki; the couple, Mr. Abel Ugiagbe and Mrs. Mariam Ugiagbe at lency Maryann Shaibu; wife the wedding reception at the new Government Festival Hall, Benin City of the occasion was all about where a party is challenging of the Speaker of the Edo State entertainment and sharing the choice of Prince Tsola Emiko House of Assembly, the Chief the disappointment on their the report as true, I called my Chairman of the occasion and in honouring the departed as the then Olu-designate. of Staff to the Governor, PDP wedding day. friend and wife of the Minister Chief of Staff to Edo State Gov- monarch as the interment was The ceremony, presided Party chieftains among others. She added that the com- for Interior, Mrs. Aregbesola ernor, Honorable Osaigbovo already done during the Iken over by the regent, Prince The Edo First Lady, in her passionate nature of Mr. who briefed her husband about Iyoha, congratulated the couple rites. However, it is the belief Emmanuel Okotie-Eboh, began remarks explained that her Abel Eromosele Ugiagbe, as the development. The minister on the success of their marriage of Itsekiris that the soul of the with some rituals performed at decision to host the event for expressed through his regret ordered immediate investiga- ceremony despite the disap- late monarch does not journey the catafalque, a spiritual home the couple was borne out of of the Registrar’s compulsory tion into the matter, recalled the pointment they experienced to final rest until all the rites that the corpse of the departed the desire to soothe the pain retirement, endeared her to the errant officer and apologised over the inexcusable absence are performed. Therefore, the monarch lives throughout the they experienced, following couple. “After I confirmed to the couple.” of the Registrar. final rites were the reason they 14-day spiritual exercise. THISDAY ˾   ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͯ 37

áÓÞÒÎÎãÎÓàáÜÓ POLSCOPE ÏÎÎã˛ÙÎÓàáÜÓ̶ÞÒÓÝÎËãÖÓàÏ˛ÍÙט͸΀͸ͽͻ͸;΁ͻͽ; Canticles…. Nnamdi Kanu is in James Manager: He Has for a Long Night Stooped, Will He Conquer?

James Manager and Ibori in the viral photo

id you see that despicable Ibori nor Manager is a Muslim, so, and humiliating picture what’s the talk about Sallah homage? that went viral last week? In any case, why the homage? Don’t you know that a man who sets a trap Despicable and humiliat- with a goat knows what he is expect- ingD picture? Picture of who or what? ing to catch? We are not ignorant of the devices of politicians. Ibori has The picture of that so-called been out of prison for over two years Distinguished Senator from Delta now. Why did James Manager not South senatorial district, James come for any solidarity all along? manager. Honestly, it was grossly He is coming now because the echoes extinguishing of the status of a of 2023 are a few miles away. Can’t federal lawmaker. And not a few you understand that he came to do people were disgusted and actually “ground wetting”? And people are embarrassed . asking that now that Senator James Manager has stooped down, even Nnamdi Kanu Oh, oh, are you referring to the picture to his knees, would he conquer? where Senator James Manager was Does he have the pedigree and the here is no doubt that the refused the application of Kanu’s lawyer Igboho against Yoruba leaders and humbly kneeling (with both knees) capacity to win the governorship separatist agitator and to transfer Kanu from the DSS detention Kings, and risen in strong solidarity to before former governor of Delta State, of Delta State? self-acclaimed leader of the facility to the Kuje Correctional facility, defend their son. The Ooni of Ife and James Ibori? Indigenous People of Biafra although she granted that Kanu’s lawyers Olubadan of Ibadan, for instance, sent The so-called video and photograph (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, be allowed to see him in twice a week powerful delegations to Cotonou as a Yes, of course! that went viral has nothing to do with Tis perceived as the enemy of state, by in the DSS custody. show of solidarity for Igboho. What’s politics. A man came to greet his boss, a the Federal Government. If there was Clearly, Nnamdi Kanu is on board more, the Onakakanfo of Yoruba, Chief What’s humiliating about it? How former boss. As for capacity to govern, any iota of doubt before now, the pattern a long judicial drive. Gani Adams, had also gone to Benin can that be said to be embarrassing? A go and check out the CV of Senator and manner of his trial, which began The market- size crowd which turned Republic to mobilise many Yoruba Kings younger James came to greet a senior Manager, and you will realise that he last Monday, would have cleared any out at the court was clearly an indication and chiefs there to give a huge ethnic James…. And you say it is embarrassing? was not named Manager for nothing. fog of doubt. that the trial is essentially a major legal support to Igboho. The result is that Do you know that one of the virtues He has twice been a commissioner, The commencement of the trial which battle, with a huge political undertone. there was a massive crowd in Cotonou of the Biblical James is that they have first as Sports Commissioner under was given so much media hype plus In a way, the Nnamdi Kanu trial has on the day Igboho was arraigned. very strong character? In any case, when late former Governor Felix Ibru, then the very heavy security presence at the been presented to look like the Federal On both matters (Nnamdi Kanu Yoruba politicians go to pay homage Commissioner for Works under Ibori Federal High Court in Abuja, turned Government versus the Igbo nation. and Sunday Igboho’s trials) there are to their leaders and go all flat on the and in 2003 he was elected a Senator out a faux pas. Nnamdi Kanu was not The large turn-out of Igbo leaders and evident cases of ethnic chauvinism at ground, is it considered embarrassing? representing Delta South. And has held brought to court. elite, including a full representation by the expense of national integrity and So, why should this show of humility on to that office for five solid terms. And the laughable, lousy excuse by the Ohaneze Ndigbo, the foremost Igbo cohesion. and loyalty by Senator Manager to his It can only be a reward for a diligent the Department of State Services (DSS) socio-cultural group, led by their lawyer, Analysts are of the opinion that both former boss and leader be wrongly manager of men and materials. is “logistics”! In plain language, the DSS Chief Goddy Uwazurike, shows that Kanu and Igboho will be given the El interpreted as embarrassing? Or don’t could not find a vehicle to bring the the push has come to shove, and the Zazaky treatment. you know that James Manager was a So you are saying that this Sena- accused to court. The point has even supposed sins of Kanu (even to the That is why the federal government commissioner under the governorship tor Manager has been in and out of been made that the locational difference Igbo organizations and leaders) are no is determined to extradite Sunday of James Ibori , almost 20 years ago? government for almost 30 years! Are between the DSS headquarters where longer as offensive, and so he must be Igboho into the country, even though You can see that the ruckus noise about you saying he is the only competent Nnamdi is being kept, and the Federal defended and rescued by his kinsmen there is no extradition treaty between the visit is only a vacuous hoopla by person in the entire Delta South High Court, is a mere shouting distance, from the grip of a regime, rightfully or Republic of Benin and Nigeria. Many idle politicians. Senatorial district? How can one less than a Sabbath day journey. Such wrongfully perceived to be anti-Igbo. believe that the Buhari administration man seize and dominate the political an unintelligent lie! How can the entire It is remarkable that the same Kanu, has a penchant for locking-in all those You don’t understand the point. space with such a tight grit? I think DSS organ not have a vehicle to bring whose style of agitation and violent who have tendency for making the We are talking of a serving Sena- it smacks of political greed, a typical the accused to court? This was the activities have been condemned government uncomfortable. They cite tor, a Distinguished member of vice of mercantile politicians. same DSS that not only had a well even by notable Igbo leaders, is now the long years former National Security the Red Chamber of the National And you think Ibori will be carried thought-out plan on nabbing Nnamdi being declared to be “my son” by the Adviser (NSA) Col Sambo Dasuki Assembly kneeling so meekly like a away because of kegs of palmwine Kanu in a far away land—Kenya, but former Anambra State governor, Dr was kept in detention despite several timid schoolboy, after committing and a table-full of alcoholic drinks? also had a stationed private jet at the Chukwuemeka Ezeife, who stressed court orders granting him freedom. El a misdemeanor. Look, Ibori is a true son of Urhobo Nairobi airport which flew the nabbed that “no matter what, he is my son!” Zazaky, the leader the Shiite Movement, And please don’t tell me about land. He will not betray his people. (some say kidnapped) Kanu straight The huge following Nnamdi Kanu is another example. The latter is even culture or humility. Since when did When the time comes to decide to Nigeria. That is the DSS that could commands is also very significant. still in detention with his wife. All these you ever associate an Ijaw man with who should occupy the Government not arrange even a shuttle bus to bring The mammoth crowd at the court, are regardless of the huge noise being such abbreviated personality? Is it House, Asaba, it will not be a func- Kanu to court. last Monday is remarkable. Anambra made in the media and in diplomatic not the same James Manager we see tion of kegs of palmwine or lobes It is clear there is a complex script to State was practically shut down on circles. everyday with some choking air of of kolanut. Governorship in Delta keep Kanu out of circulation, perhaps account of the failed arraignment of Perhaps it would even be worse arrogance around him? Look, James is not that cheap and commonplace. till the end of this administration. That Kanu. Markets in Owerri, the Imo for Nnamdi Kanu who had not only Manager is not a humble man. That way, his trouble-making capacity is not State capital, were shut down. The severely taunted the government with subservient surrender is not part of Politics is a function of consensus. only contained, but he and his wild exultant feeling among IPOB members his secessionist agitations, he had also his nature. It is a gimmick to sell a When a consensus has been built around supporters would have been reined- and sympathisers is dazzling. Some jumped bail over two years ago. His wrong message. someone, there is nothing bystanders in, no matter the high decibel of the have even said the huge following he case is likely to be treated with greater will do, beyond running roadside aftermath noise. attracts should encourage him to run viciousness, after all, once beaten, twice Gim-mick? Wrong message? What commentaries. The judiciary may have been corralled for the nation’s presidential election shy. message? One thing sure is that politics or no into the scheme, willy-nilly. The long in 2023. That, however, is if he gets He probably would have been allowed politics, James Manager remains a leader. adjournment of the case till October 21, out of the present noose before then. to be, if he kept a low profile in the It is to sell the impression that he But as you know, Jaguda get Oga. He for instance, is seen as a measure to It is the African protectionist United Kingdom, where he fled to after is a faithful and loyal follower of has stooped. He can conquer! sufficiently douse the tension that the trial ideology of seeking to first rescue jumping bail in Nigeria. But Kanu was Ibori. And it is all to hoodwink the is bound to cause. This is regardless of your own from an ‘external assailant’, pulling all the strings of his agitation former governor so that the latter Hmmmmm. Delta governorship is the fact that the courts are on vacation, before blaming him in the closet, if from outside the country, plus all the can endorse him as the governorship not for jagudas. It is for a responsible and the Judge, Justice Binta Nyako , need be. mayhem that followed in recent months. candidate of the PDP come 2023, and resourceful persons. You talked had stressed the point that she is not This was also on manifest display in In all, the October appearance in court forgetting that false humility is true about being in government for nearly a “vacation judge” and that she can the trial of the other “trouble maker” will see the government judicially baring pride. 30 years. Gash! So what are his only preside over the case during the Sunday Igboho, whose trial also opened all its fangs in an attempt to nail Nnamdi achievements? What development vacation if there is approved fiat that in Cotonou, Benin Republic during Kanu as a secessionist and separatist Nobody said he came to seek endorse- did he bring to his people? What is will allow her preside over the case. the week. fighter, and not a freedom fighter as ment for governorship race. The report his political value to his constitu- That fiat is not likely to be granted His trial suddenly took the form Kanu’s supporters and sponsors are says he came to pay homage. Don’t ents? Modern politics is beyond the especially as it is the Chief Justice of of Federal Government versus the wont to present him. forget it was during the Sallah holiday. backwaters of godfatherism. Yes, he the Federation (CJN) that has to grant Yoruba nation, as very prominent Surely, it will be a long judicial drive has stooped. Will He Conquer? We the said fiat. Yoruba leaders have suddenly brushed to the shore of justice. Don’t twist the narrative. Neither watch. We wait! It is also instructive that the Judge aside the insults, vituperations of 38 THISDAY ˾   ͱͮ˜2021 BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE AfCFTA: FG Calls for Stronger Collaboration Among ECOWAS Members Dike Onwuamaeze “Collaboration across societal and right of residence and sectors has emerged as one of establishment among others. The federal government has called the defining concepts of inter- He said: “The most on members of the Economic national development in the important protocols for Community of West African 21st century. In a part response deepening the integration States (ECOWAS) to build strong to the limitation of traditional of the sub-region is the collaboration among themselves state-led, top-down development ECOWAS Trade Liberisation so as to take advantage of benefits approaches, partnerships have Scheme and the protocols of of the African Continental Free become an essential paradigm in free movement of persons, Trade Area (AfCFTA). sustainable development. capital and goods. The ETLS The charge was given by the “I would like to commend provisions constitute an Minister of Industry, Trade and the LCCI for organising this important mechanism for Investment, Mr. Niyi Adebayo, international webinar to provide deepening trade integration and during a virtual event organised a unique opportunity for the are considered as a cornerstone to by the Lagos Chamber of Com- stakeholders in the sub-region to the effective economic integration merce and Industry (LCCI) showcase the ongoing trade and of the region.” to commemorate the 46th investment programmes as well The President of the LCCI, Mrs anniversary of the ECOWAS . as for initiating discussions on Toki Mabogunje, said that the Adebayo described the theme how member states can leverage webinar would create a unique of commemorative event, which the ECOWAS Platform to benefit opportunity for stakeholders is, “Optimising Sustainable from the AFCFTA.” to reflect on the opportunities Trade, Investment and Regional Adebayo identified theand challenges of economic Economic Integration through ECOWAS’s Trade Liberisation integration in the West African Effective Partnership between Scheme (ETLS) and the protocols sub-region, discuss the emerging ECOWAS Institutions and the of free movement of persons, opportunities for member states Organised Private Sector,” as apt capital and goods as the most in the African Continental Free Adebayo and timely because, “it emphasises important protocols of the Trade Area and deliberate on the the need to work together as ECOWAS for providing the role of the organized private sector a bloc to leverage and take principle for a progressive in promoting economic integra- advantage of the opportunities elimination of obstacles to tion and investment partnership MARKET INDICATORS offered by the AfCFTA. free movement of persons among the member states. MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) Cardoen: Fundamentals of Presco JANUARY 2021 Money Supply (M3) 38,779,455.43 Remain Strong, Resilient -- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors 1,039,129.55 Money Supply (M2) 37,740,325.88 The Chairman of Presco Plc, for it and achieve the improved 19,486 tons (2019:20,594 tons) and Mr. Paul Cardoen has said operational and financial result Olein and Stearin produced was -- Quasi Money 21,779,302.69 the company’s fundamentals we present to you.” 7,352 tons (2019:7967 tons). 15,961,023.19 remained strong and resilient He explained that revenue for He said, “Average unit -- Narrow Money (M1) despite numerous challenges the year was N23.89billion, a 21 selling prices of crude palm ---- Currency Outside Banks 2,364,871.13 in the country. per cent increase on N19.72billion oil and crude palm kernel oil Speaking to shareholders at of 2019. According to him, achieved increased marginaly ---- Demand Deposits 13,596,152.06 the company’s 28th Annual “We realised a gross profit of by 1.59 per cent and 1.15 per Net Foreign Assets (NFA) 7,414,275.50 General Meeting (AGM) held N16.088billion, a 26 per cent cent respectively year on year. in Edo State, the chairman increase on N12.72billion of “Average unit selling prices of Net Domestic Assets(NDA) 31,365,179.93 maintained that the company 2019 and 37 per cent increase bulk sales of refined product -- Net Domestic Credit (NDC) 42,916,586.63 achieved improved operational in Profit after tax (after ac- (Olein, Stearin and RBDO) that led to dividend payout to counting for changes in fair achieved in 2020 improved ---- Credit to Government (Net) 12,304,773.44 shareholders. value of biological assets). marginally by between 1.05 per At the meeting, the sharehold- Nwabuko also used the cent and 1.37 per cent compared ---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA 0.00 ers of the company approved opportunity to assure share- to 2019 while that of package ---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA) 0.00 request by the Board of the holders and other stakeholders refined products (Olein and company to pay 200 kobo per of a better future in terms of Stearin) also improved marginal ---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS) 30,611,813.19 share dividend for the financial growth and profitability. Ad- by 1.13 per cent and 1.27 per --Other Assets Net 3,892,112.74 year ended December 31, 2020, dressing the shareholders, he cent respectively.“ amounting to N2billion. said: “In the same period, fresh Speaking on behalf of share- Reserve Money (Base Money 13,264,585.14 Earlier in his address to share- fruits bunches harvested was holders, Chairman, Onitsha holders, the Chairman of Presco 214,872 tons (2019;200,163 tons), Zone Shareholders Association, --Currency in Circulation 2,831,167.19 said: “But we are happy that the Crude Palm Oil (CPO) produced Goodluck Akpore, commended --Banks Reserves 10,433,417.96 ˾ÙßÜÍÏ̋ fundamentals of our business was 45,467 tons (2019:43,757 tons), efforts by the board and manage- --Special Intervention Reserves 317,234.17 remained strong which enabled Refined, Bleached and Deodor- ment of Presco Plc to boosts the us to emerge a better business ized Oil (RBDO) produced was company’s operations. Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Month March 2018

Multichoice Targets Corporate Inter-Bank Call Rate 15.16 Organisations with DStv Business Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) 14.00 Dike Onwuamaeze guests will always remember residentially.” Treasury Bill Rate 11.84 how you made them feel.” He explained during the The MultiChoice Nigeria has On his part, the Head, DStv product launch that the DStv Savings Deposit Rate 4.07 launched new and simplified Business, Multichoice Nigeria, Business packages comprised of DStv Business packages for busi- Mr. Yomi Famakinwa said the the DStv Work, the DStv Play 1 Month Deposit Rate 8.82 nesses and corporate organisations DStv Business is targeted on and the DStv Stay, adding in Nigeria. anything that has to do with that each package is tailored 3 Months Deposit Rate 9.72 The company in a statement the DStv’s non-residential cus- to enable subscribers to get 6 Months Deposit Rate 10.93 said the DStv Business pack- tomers, especially those who the package that will suit the ages, which contain curated work, stay or visit corporate particular needs of their offices, 12 Months Deposit Rate 10.21 content at great value, were offices, hotels, and bars etc. bars, clubs, restaurants, hotels designed to suit various busi- as part of its innovative way and much more. Prime Lending rate 17.35 nesses and ensure that their of ensuring that it is able to Famakinwa said that offices Maximum Lending Rate 31.55 owners, workers and clients meet and manage its custom- should go for the DStv Business would enjoy the ultimate ers’ needs. Famakinwa said: in order to keep their staff up television experience. “The DStv Business is about to date through the best world ˾ÙØÏÞËÜãÙÖÓÍãËÞÏ̋ͯͱϱ Commenting, the Chief ensuring that we are able to all views with the latest news and Executive Officer, MultiChoice our customers. So, anything that entertainment headlines on the OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE  ˜ͯͳ  ͰͮͰͯ Nigeria, Mr. John Ugbe, said: has to do with non-residential DStv. “We always ask ourselves how customers sit under the DStv He said: “The DStv Work The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $73.15 a barrel on Thursday, we can make our customers Business portfolio for orgnisa- package offers the latest news compared with $75.29 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. experience better for businesses. tions such as pubs and clubs, headlines from around the The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan We have revamped our DStv bars, restaurants and hotels and world, sports, weather updates Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light Business packages, offering busi- the likes fall under the DStv and other work related entertain- (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), ness owners the right mixture Business portfolio. In a nutshell ment, which sets the tone for a stimulating work environment Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and of entertainment to enhance the the DStv Business is all about Merey (Venezuela). experience of guests and staff. any customer who is outside and keeps everyone including At the end of the day, your of consuming DStv contents staff well informed. THISDAY ˾   ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͯ 39

   Union Bank Records 1.4% Increase in Profit Before Tax Daramsimi Adebisi Limited (NGX) yesterday showed advances to N778.1 billion as at “The Bank delivered a 1.4per est rate environment, we have as this new structure becomes a 6.1 per cent drop in gross June 30, 2021 from N736.7billion cent growth in Profit Before Tax reinforced our branches and the further entrenched. Union Bank of Nigeria Plc has earnings to N75billion in in the reported in 2020 FY as customers’ (PBT), recording N11.5 billion network to aggressively mine “In June, we launched the announced a profit before tax period under review compared deposits rose by 3.6 per cent to in H1 2021 compared to N11.3 opportunities and value across ‘’Save & Win Palli Promo,’’ a of N11.5billion for the half year to N79.9billion recorded in the N1.17trillion as at June 30, 2021 billion in H1 2020. This steady our entire geographic footprint. nationwide campaign to reward ended June 31, 2021 indicating comparable period of 2020. This from N1.13trillion reported in performance reflects our suc- This is part of a deliberate shift new and existing customers with a 1.4 per cent increase over reflect a low interest environment. 2021 FY cessful efforts in turbo charging towards being closer to the up to N55 million. During the N11.3billion reported in prior The group’s total assets inched The CEO, Union Bank of transaction volumes, which have customer. promo period (June to December), half year unaudited result and up by 0.9 per cent to N2.2trillion Nigeria, Mr. Emeka Okonkwo delivered higher net fees and “Consequently, we have seen customers who save a minimum accounts. as at June 30, 2021 from N2.19 in a statement said: “I am commission income, as well our Retail loan book and revenues amount of N10,000 monthly will The increase in profit was trillion it closed full year ended pleased that our business has as a concerted focus on debt grow by 14per cent and 10per be eligible to win cash prizes driven by higher noninterest December 31, 2020. remained resilient in the face of a recoveries. cent respectively and expect to and gifts to encourage a sav- income. The results made avail- The group thus reported 5.6 persistently challenging economic “While the industry continues continue to see robust growth ings culture even in the current able to the Nigerian Exchange per cent increase in gross loans & environment. to be impacted by lower inter- across all business segments economic climate. PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED AS OF 29/07/2021

MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED PRICE TRADED ( N ) PRICE TRADED ( N ) 40 FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 • THISDAY MARKET NEWS A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an ETF are bought by investors. Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. investment vehicle that allows both small and Bid Price: The price at which Investors Investors with similar objectives buy units of the large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total that willl generate their desired return. investments. The assets are divided into shares that return an investor would have earned on An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. his investment. Money Market Funds report of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, Yield while others report Year- to-date Total bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, GUIDE TO DATA: Return. etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 28- NAV: Is value per share of the real estate shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the Jul-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 158.31 159.88 -2.14% Nigeria Entertainment Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 4.64% GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Nigeria International Debt Fund 308.18 308.18 -23.61% Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 Afrinvest Dollar Fund 111.44 111.44 -0.59% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD [email protected] GDL Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 ACAP Canary Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Income Funds N/A N/A N/A Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.75% AIICO CAPITAL LTD [email protected] Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Vantage Balanced Fund 2.92 2.99 2.26% 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 7.31% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 151.75 151.03 -2.73% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.24 3.40 -4.58% Vantage Equity Income Fund (VEIF) - June Year End 1.29 1.33 2.54% ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected]@anchoriaam.com Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End 1.09 1.09 0.11% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fi[email protected] Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 6.54% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Equity Fund 135.89 137.46 2.16% Lotus Halal Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.10 1.10 -17.36% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A 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 19.88 20.48 9.64% Meristem Equity Market Fund 11.56 11.61 10.38% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 430.32 443.30 7.48% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 8.09% ARM Ethical Fund N/A N/A N/A PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.09 1.09 -1.00% Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 ARM Fixed Income Fund 0.97 0.97 -7.79% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.85% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED [email protected] PACAM Balanced Fund 1.66 1.69 7.17% Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.46 11.52 -5.53% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 4.87% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 105.38 105.38 3.61% PACAM Equity Fund 1.66 1.68 5.20% AVA GAM Fixed Income Naira Fund 1,012.53 1,012.53 1.25% PACAM EuroBond Fund 112.48 114.21 2.34% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED [email protected] SCM CAPITAL LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund N/A N/A N/A SCM Capital Frontier Fund 133.13 135.42 9.71% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD [email protected] CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.01 1.01 10.07% CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.00 2.00 -12.82% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.12 2.16 -9.01% Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com ; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 3,287.80 3,322.79 2.37% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 231.72 231.72 3.06% CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.22 1.24 4.24% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 304.97 304.97 3.50% Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 224.71 228.10 2.97% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.00% Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 10,404.04 10,550.12 -0.87% Paramount Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.26 1.26 3.14% Women's Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 114.92 114.92 3.46% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund 102.60 102.60 - Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.98% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 118.71 119.47 United Capital Balanced Fund 1.30 1.32 1.60% Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 N/A N/A United Capital Bond Fund 1.90 1.90 3.77% United Capital Equity Fund 0.87 0.89 9.90% Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 107.24 107.24 United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 10.17% CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT [email protected] Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 United Capital Eurobond Fund 119.25 119.25 4.19% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.06 1.07 3.72% Coronation Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A United capital Sukuk Fund 1.06 1.06 5.76% Coronation Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD [email protected] Coronation Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Zenith Equity Fund 12.98 13.09 9.34% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Ethical Fund 14.30 14.43 17.11% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 6.73% Zenith Income Fund 24.23 24.23 1.04% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 3.98% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 6.71% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,134.12 1,148.85 -1.54% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] REITS Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS REIT 124.53 10.25% FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,394.63 1,394.63 11.25% Union Homes REIT 51.79 2.65% FBN Balanced Fund 192.39 193.75 2.51% EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS FBN Halal Fund 111.47 111.47 7.72% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 9.45% Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund 13.48 13.58 1.97% SIAML Pension ETF 40 127.85 130.93 6.28% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 126.34 126.34 3.35% Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund 100.94 103.08 1.70% FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 158.38 160.61 4.77% MERGROWTH ETF 18.08 18.18 FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] MERVALUE ETF 18.42 18.52 Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 5.12% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Debt Fund 3.96 3.96 2.33% Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund 3.95 3.99 4.59% Legacy Equity Fund 1.59 1.62 4.60% Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund 5.96 6.04 4.76% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.18 1.18 3.94% Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund 17.68 17.78 8.87% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Vetiva Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 5.55% Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund 19.98 20.18 -2.63% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund 151.56 153.56 -30.82% Coral Balanced Fund 3,729.89 3,783.72 -0.41% Coral Income Fund 3,358.16 3,358.16 2.50% INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn Coral Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.57% Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund 107.40 13.11% The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only. FRIDAY,  ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY 41 NEWS

MOTIVATING NDLEA COMMANDERS... Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) (middle) in a group photograph with newly decorated Deputy Commanders General of Narcotics, DCGNs at the Agency's National Headquarters in Abuja Jonathan Congratulates New Olu of Warri Designate, Emiko Says family background puts him in good stead to serve the Itsekiri with dignity Sylvester Idowu in Warri and dated July 23, 2021, the comes at a time when our development," he said. Jonathan recalled that as sacrifice. I pray the good former President prayed for nation is in need of vibrant The Itsekiri Kingdom, President, he met with his Lord provides you with Former President Goodluck wisdom and courage for Omo and transformational Dr. Jonathan stated, was father during his reign as the wisdom and courage to Jonathan has congratulated Oba Emiko to defend the leadership owing to the renowned for rich and the 19th Olu of Warri and defend the rich legacy that the new Olu of Warri, Omo rich legacy that comes with different challenges we are colorful history, one that has expressed confidence that his comes with the responsibility Oba, Tsola Emiko noting that the responsibility of being facing as a people. lasted for hundreds of years, family background placed of being the Olu of Warri his family background has the Olu of Warri kingdom. "It is my hope that you adding, "The royal stool to him in good stead to serve Kingdom. placed him in good stead The letter read: "I will use the opportunity which you have been found his people with dignity and "May your reign be long to serve theItsekiri people congratulate you on your provided by this divinely worthy is a national treasure, diligence. and fruitful and may it with dignity and diligence. coronation as the 21th Olu ordained appointment to an emblem of patriotism, "Leadership is sometimes signal a new era of great In a congratulatory of Warri. Your ascension to contribute your quota to that has produced notable a difficult cocktail of hard prosperity for your people," message personally signed the throne of your forefathers the assignment of national leaders in our country." choices and personal he concluded. HUSHPUPPI: IG ORDERS REVIEW OF FBI’S ALLEGATION AGAINST ABBA KYARI United States Court order and the strengthening of fraud by Rukayat Motunraya theft carries a mandatory saw some of my native clothes has demanded a forensic of arrest of Kyari, issued by its professional relationship Fashola, a.k.a. “Morayo,” 28, of two-year prison term. and Caps on my social media investigation into reports that a District Court of California. with the FBI and other Valley Stream, New York, and "The FBI is investigating this page and he said he likes them FBI has linked head of IGP The IG’s order did not, international partners. Further Bolatito Tawakalitu Agbabiaka, matter as part of Operation and he was connected to the Intelligence Response Team, however, come as a surprise as developments on this case will a.k.a. “Bolamide,” 34, of Top Dog. The FBI thanks the person selling the clothes and Kyari, to international fraudster, competent police sources had be communicated to members Linden, New Jersey. government of the United Arab he sent about N300k directly Abbas. earlier hinted THISDAY that of the public accordingly.” These two defendants also Emirates and the Dubai Police to the person’s account. In a statement by its the police authority was rattled THISDAY gathered that were arrested on July 22 by Department for their substantial "The native clothes and caps National Publicity Secretary, by the development and might Otis Wright of the United FBI agents. assistance in this matter. (5 sets) were brought to our Kola Ologbondiyan, PDP soon issue a statement to state States District Court for the Court documents outlined "The FBI also thanks the office and he (Hushpuppi) sent claimed the revelation of its position. Central District of California a dispute among members of Kenyan Office of Attorney somebody to collect them in the involvement of Kyari, the "We are concerned but we ordered the Federal Bureau of the syndicate, which allegedly General, Office of the Director our office. head of Nigeria’s intelligence are working on something Investigation (FBI) to arrest prompted Vincent to contact of Public Prosecutions, and "Nobody demanded any response unit, as a receiver of (response)", one of the sources Kyari and produce him in the the victim and claim that Abbas Directorate of Criminal money from Abbas Hushpuppi proceeds of international fraud claimed. United States for his role in and Juma were engaged in Investigations for their and nobody collected was worrisome, disturbing and But, unfazed, Kyari had a $1.1million fraud. fraud. substantial assistance. any money from him. We a stain on the integrity of the also denied the allegations Some US Court documents After this contact, Abbas "This case is being prosecuted responded to a distress call nation. in a statement posted on further showed that American allegedly arranged to have by Assistant United States he made on threat to his family "It is indeed disquieting his Facebook page, where prosecutors had first sought a Vincent jailed in Nigeria by Attorney Khaldoun Shobaki and released the suspect, when that the integrity of our he insisted that, "my hands court warrant to arrest Kyari DCP Abba Kyari, 46, of Nigeria. of the Cyber and Intellectual we discovered there was no nation has fallen so abysmally are clean". on February 12, 2021, while According to the affidavit, Property Crimes Section. The life threat from the Suspect. low under the corrupt and That notwithstanding, the another request was made on Kyari, a highly decorated Criminal Division’s Office of This is the true story. Vincent fraud-patronizing President Peoples Democratic Party April 29, 2021. deputy commissioner of the International Affairs provided is alive, he can be contacted", Muhammadu Buhari-led All (PDP) has demanded a full But Judge Wright’s Nigeria Police, was alleged to substantial assistance in this he said. Progressives Congress (APC) investigation of the alleged permission for the FBI to have arranged for Vincent to matter", it said. Kyari therefore maintained administration, to the extent involvement of Kyari in the arrest Kyari and hold him be arrested and jailed at Abbas’ Meanwhile, Kyari has denied that there was no such that the head of its police fraud allegations against in US custody, it was further behest, and then sent Abbas the allegations in a statement transaction between him and intelligence unit is being Abbas. gathered, was unsealed on July photographs of Vincent after posted on his verified Facebook Hushpuppi. charged in connection with In a two-paragraph 26, 2021. his arrest. page. "For those, who are international fraud. statement issued by the Hushpuppi had narrated to Kyari also allegedly sent Kyari said, "Abbas, who celebrating that this is "Our party demands that IG, tagged: “Alleged the US court how he allegedly Abbas bank account details we later came to know as an indictment on us and the APC administration should Indictment of DCP Abba bribed Kyari to arrest and jail for an account into which Hushpuppi called our office mentioning some fictitious not sweep this matter under Kyari: Inspector-General Of one of his rivals in Nigeria Abbas could deposit payment about two years ago that big money, they will be the carpet given the manifest Police Orders A Review of over a disputed sharing for Vincent’s arrest and somebody in Nigeria seriously disappointed once again as our rapport between Kyari and the Information” and signed formula of $1.1million scam imprisonment. threatened to kill his family hands are clean and our record some top APC leaders. We urge by the Force Public Relations of a Qatari businessman. Anifowoshe, Fashola and here in Nigeria and he sent of service for two decades is President Buhari not to ‘ease Officer, Commissioner of Police The US court papers also Agbabiaka were arrested in the person’s phone number open for everybody to see. out’ this case of corruption but Frank Mba, Baba assured the revealed that Yusuf Adekinka New York and New Jersey on and pleaded we take action They will continue seeing should immediately restore Nigerian people of justice at Anifowoshe, a.k.a. “AJ,” 26, of July 22, and were expected to before the person attacks his us serving our fatherland and the integrity and image of the end of the day. Brooklyn, New York, allegedly be arraigned in Los Angeles family. we will continue responding our nation by allowing for a The statement read: “Sequel played a role in the fraud, in August. The all three are "We traced and arrested the to all distress calls from all forensic investigation on the to the receipt of allegation assisting Abbas with a call to currently free on bond. suspect and after investigations, Nigerians provided they are suspect," the PDP stated. and indictment processes the victim posing as “Malik.” The court maintained, we discovered there wasn’t life threatening. The PDP, however, warned from the Federal Bureau of Special agents with the FBI, however, that the indictment an actual threat to anyone’s "For good Nigerians, who that, "if this Abba Kyari matter Investigation (FBI) against however, arrested Anifowoshe "contain allegations that a life and they are longtime appreciate our service, please, is not well handled, it will one of the personnel of the in New York on July 22. defendant has committed a friends, who have money don’t worry as our hands be a permanent stain on Nigeria Police Force, DCP The conspirators allegedly crime. Every defendant is issues between them hence we are clean and they should the reputation of our police, Abba Kyari, the Inspector defrauded the victim of more presumed innocent until and released the suspect on bail to please not respond to those security system and our nation General of Police IGP Usman than $1.1 million. unless proven guilty beyond go and he was not taken to celebrating and creating many at large. Alkali Baba psc (+), NPM, fdc The proceeds of the fraud a reasonable doubt. any jail", he said. false narratives without any It, therefore, asked President has ordered an internal review were allegedly laundered in "Both conspiracy counts "Nobody demanded for a evidence. We are used to such Buhari to direct the Inspector of the allegations. several ways. alleged in the indictment kobo from Abbas Hushpuppi. types of people and false General of Police to take in “The Nigeria Police Force According to the indictment, carry a statutory maximum Our focus was to save people’s newsmakers and distributors", Kyari for questioning and if reaffirms its commitment Abbas was assisted in sentence of 20 years in federal lives that were purported to he said. found culpable, should be to the pursuit of justice laundering the proceeds of the prison. Aggravated identity have been threatened. Later, he Meanwhile, the PDP handed over to the FBI. 42 FRIDAY,  ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY SPECIAL REPORT How FBI Unmasked Nigeria’s ‘Super Cop’ DCP Abba Kyari Providing Police Services to Criminals

Until Thursday July 28, 2021 when news of how Deputy Commissioner of Police Abba Alhaji Kyari, was indicted in international multi million naira fraud, only very few Nigerians would doubt the integrity and the zeal the police offi cer many tipped to someday occupy the offi ce of the Inspector General of Police in his fi ght against crime and criminality. Although some questions were raised few weeks back when he was spotted at the burial ceremony for the mother of great socialite Obi Cubana in Oba, Anambra State; an occasion where millions in various currencies were freely lavished as ‘spray money’. Also while some have at one time or the order accused him of extorting people under arrest, hardly would anyone link him to notorious fraudster Ramon Olorunwa Abbas, popularly known as ‘Ray Hushpuppi, who is just pleaded guilty to a host of criminal charges and currently sentencing in the united States upon conviction of cybercrime and money laundering offences. Kyari was on Monday indicted in a $1.1 million fraud and money laundering charge during the unsealing of a Criminal Complaint by the U. S. Justice Department. The complaint dated February 12, 2021 has Abbas, Abdulrahman Imraan Juma,a Kenyan, Vincent Kelly Chibuzo, Abba Aljahi Kyari, Rukayat Motunrayo Fashola and Bolatito Tawakalitu Agbabiaka as fi rst to sixth defendants respectively. They were specifi cally fi ngered in an International Scheme to Defraud the Qatari Hushpuppi Kyari School Founder and then launder over $1 Million alleged kidnappers, ABBAS wrote, in part, to USD $150,000 to Okatch in four transactions”. threats to CHIBUZO: I dey always tell people in Illicit Proceeds. “messages obtained from KYARI, “Am really happy to be ur boy,” and The agent stated that problem however to think well before they offend me and make ABBAS’ phone and online accounts pursuant later, “I promise to be a good boy to u sir.” started between January 9 and 10, 2020, when them make sure they fi t stand the consequences to federal search warrants, combined with bank Going to the genesis, Innocenti said the victim Chibuzo complained to Abbas that he had not when the time comes. I won’t say more than records, other records, and information from planned building an international school (the paid for the work that was being done on the that but very soon, very very soon, the wrath victims, indicate that ABBAS and the other Qatari Victim Company) in Qatar, and therefore fake website. He added that Chibuzo while of my hands shall fi nd you and when it does, it Defendants participated in a scheme to defraud hired the Financial Advisor to fi nd a lender feeling been underpaid for the job decided to will damage you forever. At this point I no get a person (the “Victim Businessperson”) who who could invest $15 million in the project. knock Abbas and Juma out of the deal and discussion with you, u have committed a crime was seeking a lender to invest $15 million in “Around October 1, 2019, the Financial Advisor corner it to himself. that won’t be forgiven, that is punishable and a project to build an international school in began reaching out to business contacts and Innocent said both Abbas and Juma learnt you shall receive die punishment in due time Qatar (the “Qatari Victim Company”). The conducted searches online to secure an investor on January 13, 2020, tthat CHIBUZO had I swear with my life you will regret messing scheme defrauded the Victim Businessperson to provide the $15 million loan for his client. contacted the Victim Businessperson directly with me, you will even wish you died before of more than $1.1 million” said the FBI agent As a result of the online search, the Financial to tell him/her that ABBAS was “fake.”, a my hands will touch you”. in an affi davit he deposed to in support of Advisor came into contact with Coconspirator 1, situation which prompted Abbas to contact According to the affi davit, Abbas again on the allegations. who claimed to live and work in the Philippines. Kyari to deal with Chibuzo as well as keep January 16, 2020, sent a message to KYARI According to an affi davit deposed to by Coconspirator 1 referred the Financial Advisor him off the way. on WhatsApp, and then placed fi ve calls to one Andrew john Innocenti, an agent of the to a company in Kenya—Westload Financial “On January 13, 2020, the Victim Businessperson another phone number (+2348060733588) that Federal Bureau of Investigation, there are Solutions Limited (“Westload”)—to facilitate contacted JUMA about a person who had was listed as “Abbas Kyari.” He claimed that strong documentary evidence against the the loan. contacted the Victim Businessperson about the call records show that the last three of the calls defendants leading to the arrest and prosecution “On November 12, 2019, the Financial Advisor loan, stating “This number is calling me but I were answered and that one of the calls lasted of hushpuppi earlier in the year. Abbas AKA and the Victim Businessperson travelled to didn’t answer.” The Victim Businessperson also more than two minutes. Innocent said that Hushpuppi was also said to have pleaded Kenya to meet in person with JUMA and provided JUMA a screenshot of and forwarded shortly after that, ABBAS received a message guilty to the charges on April 2020, this year. another person. As noted in paragraph 17, additional conversations between the Victim from KYARI, confi rming “We would pick him While Abbas, Juma, Chibuzo, Fashola and JUMA’s business card identifi ed him as the Businessperson and CHIBUZO, who was using today or tomorrow.” ABBAS wrote, “I will Agbabiaka were said to have played very crucial “Chairman” of Westload, while the business the U.S. phone number 3054405586. That phone take care of the team also after they pick him and specifi c roles leading to the defrauding of card of the other person stated he was the number was the same phone number used by up.” KYARI confi rmed “Yes ooo.” the victim of over $1,1 million, Kyari was said “Funding Offi cer.” CHIBUZO to send ABBAS information about “Based on the conversation described in to have on the behest of Abbas kept Chibuzo “During this meeting, the Victim the fake Wells Fargo website described earlier. paragraphs 143 to 145, ABBAS planned to pay in custody when he attempted to blow the lid Businessperson signed a contract with In the messages, CHIBUZO sent the Victim the Nigeria Police Force offi cers who arrested off the deal. According to Innocenti, “KYARI, Westload. The contract stated that the Victim Businessperson’s passport, and claimed to CHIBUZO for that service. This was not the a Deputy Commissioner of the Nigeria Police Businessperson was responsible for paying a be “trying to help” the Victim Businessperson. only time that ABBAS arranged payments Force, arranged the arrest of CHIBUZO at the “consultancy fee” of $225,000 through the law “JUMA forwarded these messages from the with KYARI. On May 20, 2020, ABBAS sent request of ABBAS to prevent CHIBUZO from fi rm Okatch & Partners (“Okatch”), which was Victim Businessperson to ABBAS, who responded, KYARI transaction receipts for two transactions interfering in the scheme defrauding the Victim located in Kenya. The payment was to be “I will deal with him.” At approximately the from accounts at Nigerian banks (GTBank and Businessperson. KYARI had CHIBUZO held made in two installments—an initial payment same time, ABBAS asked CHIBUZO for a phone Zenith Bank) of a person ABBAS knew in the in custody for a month and also facilitated of $157,500 and a second payment for $67,500. number on which to call him. Two minutes U.A.E.—a person also arrested with ABBAS payments from ABBAS to the Nigeria Police Westload also provided two initial invoices; later, ABBAS sent the phone number on which in ABBAS’ apartment in the U.A.E. by Dubai Force personnel who arrested CHIBUZO, in one for $157,500 for the fi rst installment and he contacted CHIBUZO (which Police on June 9, 2020—to the Nigerian bank order to ensure CHIBUZO’s continued arrest, another for $6,900, for purported legal and CHIBUZO had previously also sent to ABBAS) accounts of another person in Nigeria. The thereby preventing CHIBUZO from notifying the initial engagement fees. to KYARI without providing any additional amounts on the transaction receipts totaled 8 Victim Businessperson of ABBAS’ and JUMA’s “Concurrently, on about November 12, 2019, the context. Just before forwarding the phone million Nigerian Naira, which was approximately fraudulent scheme and preventing CHIBUZO Victim Businessperson began communicating with number to KYARI, ABBAS placed a nearly $20,600 based on publicly available exchange from hijacking the scheme for his own benefi t. JUMA over WhatsApp. On around November fi ve-minute call to KYARI, using the phone rate information”, he added. “KYARI’s knowing involvement in the 13 and 14, 2019, the Victim Businessperson number described in paragraph 136. Also the affi davit stated that Chibuzo scheme allowed ABBAS and JUMA to continue wired approximately $164,450 to Okatch in four “A short time later, ABBAS told JUMA, “setting attempted to reason with Abbas on January defrauding the Victim Businessperson undetected separate transactions. On about December 1, him up already [¶] He will learn.” JUMA 18, 2020, but recounted all the assistance he and receive money obtained from the Victim 2019, JUMA provided the Victim Businessperson replied, “He almost messed it up bro,” to which had provided in the scheme to victimize the Businessperson after it was laundered. a wire transfer confi rmation—which was forged ABBAS responded “They are working on it Victim Businessperson, including creating the Speaking on the relationship between Kyari and fraudulent— showing a transfer of $15 already. Approximately an hour later, CHIBUZO “power of attorney” document. and Abbas, the FBI agent noted that Abbas million from a Barclays Bank PLC account responded to ABBAS’ message requesting his Kyari was also said to have sent to Abbas appears to have fi rst interacted with KYARI in in the United phone number by providing another phone on January 20, 2020, biographical, identifying September 2019, when KYARI traveled to the Kingdom to the Qatar National Bank number. ABBAS also sent this number to KYARI information for CHIBUZO, along with a U.A.E. he said their conversation indicated (“QNB”) account of the Qatari Victim Company, without providing any additional context in photograph of him. He said in a conversation that Abbas sent a car and driver to drive Kyari dated November 28, 2019. Shortly thereafter, the message”, Innocent stated. immediately following, ABBAS confi rmed “that during that trip. He said, “Soon thereafter, on about December 5, 2019, JUMA told the He further averred that on January 15, 2020, is him sir.” KYARI stated, “We have arrested KYARI sent ABBAS a video slideshow which Victim Businessperson that another “payment this time using WhatsApp, ABBAS sent an the guy . . . He is in my Cell now. This is his showed some personal photographs of KYARI, of release order” was needed to secure the audio recording to KYARI, stating, essentially, picture after we arrested him today.” some of which appeared to have been taken in loan, and requested an additional payment of that he wanted to remind KYARI about what He was said to send the biographical the U.A.E. Later in September, after KYARI sent $150,000. On around December 6 and 7, 2019, they discussed earlier. ABBAS an article that discussed him arresting the Victim Businessperson wired approximately On January 16, 2020, ABBAS sent the following Continued on page 43 FRIDAY,  ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY 43 SPECIAL REPORT HOW FBI UNMASKED NIGERIA’S ‘SUPER COP’ DCP ABBA KYARI information about, and photograph of, CHIBUZO to Abbas using two different WhatsApp numbers—the second of which KYARI said was his “private number.” From that point on, KYARI and ABBAS primarily discussed the arrest and detention of KYARI through WhatsApp on this “private number.” He said, “After receiving the photograph of CHIBUZO, ABBAS stated, “I want him to go through serious beating of his life.” KYARI responded, “Hahahaha,” and ABBAS replied, “Seriously sir.” KYARI then asked for details about what CHIBUZO did “on audio,” which KYARI said was “So that we will know what to do. In response to KYARI’s question about what CHIBUZO had done to ABBAS, ABBAS sent KYARI an audio message, which is transcribed here, describing how CHIBUZO had tried to steal away a fraud victim (i.e., “the job”) from him: What he did is, I have one job. The job want to pay me 500, umm, 75,000 dollars [i.e., $575,000]. He went to message the job behind me because I told him to help me make one document for me to give the job. Then he went—he has a—I gave him the details. Then he went to message the job behind my back and try to divert the money and in this process he tell the job because of the documents he gave me that I gave the job, he tell the job, “These document they sent to you before. These people are fake. This money—is me who can JUMA Morayo help you to get it. Come to me le—bring this money you want to pay these people to me. I’m the only one who can help you,” and all these things to divert the job for himself. “After listening to the message, KYARI wrote, “Ok I understand [¶] But he has not succeeded.” ABBAS claimed CHIBUZO had taken some money, and provided KYARI with two screenshots, one of which contained the phone number 3054405586 (the phone number CHIBUZO used to contact the Victim Businessperson). The screenshots showed a person contacting the Victim Businessperson and stating that he was providing information to try to “help[]” the Victim Businessperson. KYARI responded, “Yeah I understand.” KYARI did not request other information or evidence relating to CHIBUZO’s role in the scheme, ask questions about the nature of the transaction, or ask about why CHIBUZO told the Victim Businessperson that ABBAS was “fake.” “ABBAS then told KYARI, “Now the [Victim Businessperson] was skeptic to pay me the money cos he keep attacking the [Victim Businessperson] from his end. Now I can handle the [Victim Businessperson] correctly.” ABBAS further told KYARI that he wanted to pay money to send CHIBUZO to jail for a long time, stating “Please sir I want to spend Bolamide Chibuzo money to send this boy to jail, let him go for a very long time.” KYARI responded, “Ok Innocent stated that based on the date of Hushpuppi’s social media posts. Other illicit the fraud scheme. JUMA received and laundered bro I understand I will discuss with my team the messages and later discussion, Abbas on proceeds from the scheme were allegedly the money that the Victim Businessperson sent who arrested him . . . And handling the case February 20, 2020— requested that KYARI converted into cashier’s checks, including to the Okatch bank account in Kenya. [¶] We will do something about it.” should not release CHIBUZO until Tuesday, $50,000 in checks that were used by Abbas “CHIBUZO interacted directly with ABBAS, “ABBAS responded, “Let me know how I February 25, 2020. He added that Abbas and a co-conspirator to fraudulently acquire a as he worked with ABBAS and JUMA to create can send money to the team sir[.] let them deal then told KYARI that CHIBUZO’s girlfriend St. Christopher and Nevis citizenship, as well various artifi ces—including a fraudulent website with him like armed robber.” KYARI responded, messaged him, trying to raise one million as a passport for Abbas obtained by creating and “phone banking” system—that would induce “OK I will send their account details to u.” Naira to secure CHIBUZO’s release, adding a false marriage certifi cate and then bribing the Victim Businessperson to make additional ABBAS further wrote, “He betray me and that ABBAS promised to contribute 100,000 a government offi cial in St. Kitts. payments to the coconspirators. CHIBUZO try to take food out my mouth, this is great Naira. He said Kyari responding said, “They The agent concluded by saying “Based on the was to be compensated by ABBAS for his punishable sin,” and KYARI responded, were thinking it’s normal arrest that is why foregoing, there is probable cause to believe that involvement in the scheme. At one point, “Yeah bro.” ABBAS then continued, “I they think money can remove him . . . No ABBAS, JUMA, CHIBUZO, KYARI, FASHOLA, CHIBUZO felt that he was not being paid want him to suffer for many years.” KYARI money can remove him here [¶] Hahahaha.” and AGBABIAKA participated in a conspiracy enough or in a timely manner, and contacted responded, “Hahahaha [¶] Hahahaha.” ABBAS added, “But it’s better for them to to fraudulently obtain and launder money the Victim Businessperson directly, saying that “Approximately six minutes later, KYARI think that way, I like it like that,” and KYARI obtained from the Victim Businessperson, in ABBAS and JUMA had scammed the Victim provided the account information for a bank responded, Yeah. ABBAS then said, “No problem violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1349 (Conspiracy to Businessperson, in an attempt to get the Victim account at a Nigerian bank, Zenith Bank, in the sir from Tuesday he can go,” apparently giving Commit Wire Fraud) and 18 U.S.C. § 1956(h) Businessperson to make future fraudulent name of a person other than KYARI himself. KYARI his blessing to release CHIBUZO from (Conspiracy to Engage in Money Laundering): payments to CHIBUZO and not to ABBAS ABBAS responded “Ok sir, tomorrow by noon,” custody. KYARI responded, “Ok bro [¶] We “ABBAS directly interacted with the Victim and JUMA. indicating that he would make the payment will also keep his phone and other gadgets Businessperson, falsely claiming to be a Wells “KYARI, a Deputy Commissioner of the to KYARI’s team by the next day. for some weeks.” ABBAS responded, “Yes Fargo banker named “Malik.” ABBAS also Nigeria Police Force, arranged the arrest of “On the same day, ABBAS sent JUMA the those ones they should not give him again, orchestrated the receipt and laundering of funds CHIBUZO at the request of ABBAS to prevent photograph of CHIBUZO in custody, which those ones are gone . . . Make he no see those from the Victim Businessperson to and through CHIBUZO from interfering in the scheme KYARI had sent. Approximately a month later, ones again for life,” instructing KYARI not to bank accounts in the United States, as well as defrauding the Victim Businessperson. KYARI on February 19, 2020, KYARI sent a message to return CHIBUZO’s electronic devices. KYARI the creation and use of the Canoga Park Wells had CHIBUZO held in custody for a month ABBAS, saying, “Hello hush with [sic] need to responded, “Yes he will not see it [¶] Again,” Fargo Account. ABBAS ultimately received the and also facilitated payments from ABBAS to talk about the subject under detention with me.” indicating that he would accede to ABBAS’ proceeds of the fraud scheme in a variety of the Nigeria Police Force personnel who arrested ABBAS asked “Should I call u on this number request. ways, including as cash into the Nigerian bank CHIBUZO, in order to ensure CHIBUZO’s sir?” to which KYARI replied, Yes call me. The The Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s account of another person, purchase of a luxury continued arrest, thereby preventing CHIBUZO following day, KYARI sent ABBAS multiple Los Angeles Field Offi ce, Kristi Johnson, disclosed Richard Mille watch, and purchase of St. Kitts from notifying the Victim Businessperson of photographs of CHIBUZO to ABBAS, including that Hushpuppi, who he said is among the citizenship and a passport. After the Victim ABBAS’ and JUMA’s fraudulent scheme and close-up photographs showing a rash or skin most high-profi le money launderers in the Businessperson began to suspect that JUMA preventing CHIBUZO from hijacking the disease on CHIBUZO’s torso and arms. ABBAS world, "has admitted to his signifi cant role had defrauded him/her, ABBAS purported to scheme for his own benefi t. KYARI’s knowing responded, “I don pity am, make them leave in perpetrating global BEC fraud, a scheme work with the Victim Businessperson to report involvement in the scheme allowed ABBAS am from Tuesday.” KYARI wrote, “Ok bro, currently plaguing Americans. JUMA’s fraudulent conduct to the FBI, but, in and JUMA to continue defrauding the Victim they just brought him from hospital. The fever “His celebrity status and ability to make reality, defrauded the Victim Businessperson Businessperson undetected and receive money and the rashes is giving him serious Wahala connections seeped into legitimate organizations out of additional funds, which ABBAS then obtained from the Victim Businessperson after [¶] He got the disease from other suspects in and led to several spin-off schemes in the U.S. laundered. it was laundered. the cell.” ABBAS responded, “I see am, I no and abroad. Today’s announcement deals a “JUMA worked closely with ABBAS to defraud “FASHOLA and AGBABIAKA knowingly too pity am [¶] That’s what people like him crucial blow to this international network and the Victim Businessperson, interacting directly assisted ABBAS in receiving money from the deserve but I go forgive am for God sake.” hopefully serves as a warning to potential victims with the Victim Businessperson and directing Victim Businessperson into bank accounts in In other words, based on my training and targeted with this type of theft.” the Victim Businessperson to make payments to the United States and then laundering the experience with Nigerian Pidgin, ABBAS was Approximately $230,000 of the stolen funds bank accounts in the United States and Kenya. funds received in a variety of ways, including essentially stating, in part, “I don’t pity him. allegedly were used to purchase a Richard Mille In particular, JUMA received initial payments through cash withdrawals, wire transfers, use That’s what people like him deserve, but I RM11-03 watch, which was hand delivered to from the Victim of illicit money exchangers, and purchases of will forgive him for God’s sake.” Abbas in Dubai and subsequently appeared in Businessperson and then involved ABBAS in items and other things of value. 44 FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 ˾THISDAY 45 NEWS DSS Fails to Produce Detained Igboho’s Aides in Court Alex Enumah in Abuja Justice Obiora Egwuatu had exparte application argued by positions. dimensions and sophistication of Responding, Olajeingbesi last week ordered the DSS to applicants’ lawyer, Mr Pelumi The detained agitators were the investigation being carried urged the court to sanction the The Department of State Services produce the detainees on July Olajeingbesi, wherein he informed arrested during a midnight raid out on the detainees. DSS for disrespecting its lawful (DSS) yesterday failed to produce 29, and also appear before the court that the applicants have on Igboho’s residence in Oyo He added that the DSS order to produce the detainees in 12 of Sunday Igboho’s aides held the court to show why the been in custody of the DSS since State and subsequently brought obtained an order of court court. He faulted the detention in their custody in line with the applicants should not be released July 1, 2021. to Abuja. permitting the detention of order tendered by DSS, adding order of a Federal High Court unconditionally. Meanwhile, The Ooni caucus, When the matter came up on the applicants for 14 days to that the order was not certified in Abuja. The order was sequel to an a group set up by the Ooni of Thursday, DSS’ lawyer, Idowu interrogate them. as required by law for public Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Awo, informed the court that the Besides, the counsel submitted documents. Ojaja II, to pursue the Yoruba detained applicants could not be that some names on the Federal The counsel argued that Lagos under Severe Stress of agenda in a civilized manner, produced in court, because of the High Court order were at it was wrong for the DSS to has warned certain elements nature of their arrest adding that variance with the list of those have detained the applicants Third Wave of COVID-19, sympathetic to Igboho to stop investigation was still ongoing. being detained adding that only for 25 days without charging denigrating the group and the Awo stated that he had filed 4 out 12 names corresponded them to court or granting them Says Commissioner monarch over their misconstrued a counter affidavit to explain the with that of DSS. administrative bail. Mary Nnah While appealing to the general public and neighbouring states Commissioner for Health, Lagos to take precautions as that State, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has COVID-19 is not over, he said that the state is presently added: “We have quite a long under severe stress and strain way to go and we do not know of a third wave of COVID-19 as how many more waves we it diagnoses between 100 and are going to experience, so it 300 cases daily. important that we stick to the Speaking during the non-pharmaceutical intervention official launch of an ultra- and continue to build this kind modern intravenous (i.v) of capacity, so that we have the fluids production factory indigenous capacity to be less near Sagamu, in Ogun State, vulnerable and more resilient to by Med-In Pharmaceuticals these kinds of shocks.” Limited, Abayomi revealed that He urged the public to stop the state’s estimation facilities hugging and shaking hands and were filing up. maintain the elbow greetings, The commissioner, who which he said is appropriate for represented the Governor of this time. “COVID-19 is a contact Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde contagion, so if you continue to Sanwo-Olu, at the event, said shake someone’s hands, you are Lagos State was creating more in a position of either transmitting BOOSTING AGRICULTURE… space to accommodate patients. or receiving the various.” L-R: The Oniru of Iruland, Oba Gbolahan Lawal; Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabiru Shotobi; and Elegushi of Ikate-Elegushi Kingdom, Oba Saheed Elegushi, SON Bursts Syndicate during the cutting of the tape of the 2021 Agricultural Value Chains Enterprise Activation Programme at Police College, Ikeja, Lagos…yesterday Adulterating Lubricants 18,000 JAMB Candidates to Sit for Mop-up Exams Kuni Tyessi in Abuja (UTME). doubt, no candidate whose result and few candidates that either It said that affected candidates has been duly released would encountered peculiar biometric in Lagos The Joint Admissions and have been notified through text be rescheduled for another verification problems or failed Sunday Okobi General of SON, Mr. Farouk Matriculation Board (JAMB) messages on their designated examination contrary to the biometric verification on the Salim, who was represented by has announced that no fewer phone numbers and their JAMB sponsored fake news being examination date. A team of the Surveillance, the Coordinator of the SIM Unit, than 18,000 candidates would profiles. circulated on social and few He said that the affected Investigation and Monitoring Mr. Suleiman Isa, described the sit for its mop-up examinations The board also said that mischievous conventional media. candidates also include those (SIM) unit of the Standards discovery as shocking, stating across the country on Friday, candidates could check using Benjamin said that the affected who were unable to sit for the Organisation of Nigeria (SON) that it is indeed a wake-up call August 6. their registration number candidates included those that UTME owing to the clash of has uncovered a lubricant for Nigerians and particularly The JAMB said that would on http://www.jamb.gov. could not be initially scheduled timetables of the UTME and adulterating syndicate at a the organisation that there is be conducting the examination ng/2021mopup. for examination owing to their the then ongoing NABTEB residential building in the still work to be done. to make up for minor hitches, A statement that was released inability to procure and supply examinations and whose Alaba International Market Salim said: “Despite SON’s which were recorded during yesterday by the Spokesperson of their mandatory NINs or particulars have been verified area of Lagos State. several arrests in the past, the 2021 Unified Tertiary the JAMB, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, profile codes before the close and supplied directly to JAMB The sting operation team deviant Nigerians still persist Matriculation Examination said that for the avoidance of of the registration exercise, by NABTEB. swooped on the location and in the act of adulterating arrested the prime suspect, Mr. engine oil and selling same to Chizoba Emmanuel, who was unsuspecting Nigerians, which 2022: Allow the Best to Govern Ekiti, found in the premises with has destroyed machinery and various items suspected to be engines. drums of base oil and an empty “The SON will not relent Ex-Deputy Gov Tells PDP drums used for mixing and in the ongoing fight against Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti aspirant, Mr. Segun Oni. boss. We worked together in the correct leadership. We need repackaging of the substandard unscrupulous elements Lawal, who was Oni’s Deputy government without rancour a leader that understands the lubricants. that persist in defrauding Former Deputy Governor of between 2007 and 2010, advised and we delivered. But that concept of leadership. Ekiti is Speaking to journalists at the unsuspecting Nigerians through , Dr. Sikiru Lawal, those canvassing for zoning to doesn’t mean I can’t have my very unique and peculiar, so we scene yesterday, the Director- their dubious acts.” has told the Peoples Democratic drop the agitation, describing own ambition. need someone who understands Party (PDP) to adopt him as Ekiti as a homogenous state “That I was his former our homogeneity and who can a candidate for the June 18, without political boundaries. deputy doesn’t mean I can’t make the best use of it. USA Firm Donates N6bn Medical 2022, governorship election He made these statements have ambition. My ambition “Zoning is a mere political in the state. when he formally declared is to govern this state. My demarcation. Ekiti is one by Consumables to Bauchi Lawal boasted that he has interest in the 2022 governorship governorship project is not history and politics. I want Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi committee to ensure equitable better chances of defeating on the platform of the PDP. because of him (Oni). I am a situation whereby the best distribution and rational utilization the All Progressives Congress He said: “My relationship not doing this to galvanise candidate would be allowed An American donor, MAP of the medicine to the target (APC) and return the PDP to with my former boss, Mr. support for him, but to serve to govern, whether from the International of United State (US), beneficiaries as failure to do power than any other candidate, Segun Oni is very cordial. the people of Ekiti. South, Central or North for has donated medical consumables that will attract appropriate including his former boss and He will forever remain my “It is sad that Ekiti hasn’t got quick development.” worth N6 billion to the Bauchi disciplinary action. State Government for distribution “This is an important life-saving to health care centres across the medicine that is rarely available in Unizik Lecturer to Face Disciplinary Panel for state. pharmacies and medicine stores Speaking while receiving the in Nigeria, because of its cost Flogging Female Student drugs, Governor Bala Abdulkadir and increased demand globally.” Mohammed appreciated MAP “Our colleagues in the medical David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka an ankara uniform prescribed government to take action on pains because of the beating she International USA and UPS for profession have confirmed to us for her department. the matter or we (students) will received from this callous lecturer, their remarkable support to his that this medicine has proven A lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe The lecturer, it was gathered paralyse academic activities in which left her body swollen and administration. efficacy in the treatment of life- University Awka, Anambra State, also seized personal effects, the university for days. bleeding with injuries.” He assured stakeholders that threatening heart diseases,” he (name withheld) would face a including shoes, of other students “Can you imagine! Where When contacted, the Dean the state government would said. disciplinary panel for allegedly for not complying with the has this happened before of Faculty of Social Science distribute the donated medicine According to him, his admi- flogging a female undergraduate ankara dress code. Students of that a lecturer would flog an of the University, Proffessor to secondary and tertiary health nistration from its inception, of the school for not wearing a the institution say the matter was undergraduate for any reason? Uche Nwogwugwu, said: “A care facilities in the state for timely prioritized the wellbeing of the prescribed uniform. generating tension on campus, Are we in nursery and primary thorough investigation shall be and appropriate utilisation. citizens of the state by providing The student, who was said as most of the students were not school? This is unacceptable; this conducted on the matter and if the The governor directed the them with equitable, accessible to be in the Department of comfortable with the situation. is unheard of. We must get to allegations are true, the lecturer State Ministry of Health and and affordable health care Economics, was allegedly beaten A source said: “There is the root of this. will definitely face the wrath of its agencies to set up a strong services. up by the lecturer for not wearing pressure on the students’ union “The girl in question is still in the Vice Chancellor. 46 FRIDAY JULY 30, 2021 ˾THISDAY NEWS XTRA Presidency: House Leadership Told Buhari to Ignore Summon over Insecurity Adedayo Akinwale and Udora Representatives), Hon. Umar the protracted security crisis President, said the president had However, the Attorney- security matters, adding that the Orizu in Abuja El-Yakub has said it was the in the country. agreed to address the National General of the Federation president was rather invited for leadership of the House that The House had summoned Assembly. (AGF) and Minister of Justice, engagement with the House Senior Special Assistant (SSA) told President Muhammadu Buhari over the killing of 43 The following day after the Abubakar Malami, said the on ways to address security to the President on National Buhari to ignore its summon rice farmers in Zabarmari assurance given by Gbajabiamila, National Assembly did not challenges in the country. Assembly Matters (House of during one of its debates on community in Borno State the House Spokesperson, Hon. have the power to summon Addressing journalists on sometime ago. Benjamin Kalu, also disclosed the president, but the House Thursday in Abuja, El-Yakub After the summon, that Buhari might appear before insisted that the invitation revealed that the leadership of the Speaker, Hon. Femi the lawmakers on Thursday, extended to the President was the House changed its mind Marwa Charges Newly Gbajabiamila, who met with the December 10, 2020. not aimed at ridiculing him over over the President’s summon. Promoted NDLEA Officers Fake News Deadlier than COVID-19, Says Lagos to Crush Drug Cartels Information Commissioner Michael Olugbode in Abuja trafficking has not manifested. Segun James He implored all stakeholders fake news would be a thing media in a Volatile, Uncertain, He reiterated, however, reiterated in information management to of the past. Complex, Ambiguous and Chairman and Chief Executive that the NDLEA is now ready to Lagos State Commissioner for join in the fight against fake “I can tell you that no disease Disruptive(VUCAD) World”, of the National Drug Law mobilise all Nigerians in the war Information and Strategy, Mr. news, saying that the aftermath is afflicting the world more than has a lot of relevance in the Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), against illicit drug. Gbenga Omotoso, has said that of the menace is ravaging the issue of fake news and this is world today, the commissioner Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa’s promotion order fake news, especially on the the world like the COVID the time all practitioners should congratulated the organisers as Marwa (rtd) has charged all the followed a report by the social media, is deadlier than pandemic. rise up and phase it out. I know well as the participants of the newly promoted officers and men harmonisation committee he the COVID-19 pandemic. Omotoso maintained that the that if our information officers retreat. of the anti-narcotic agency to go all instituted soon after assuming The commissioner stated this moment officers, as custodians of should start moving with trends, According to him, this year’s out and crush all the drug cartels leadership of the agency in January in his welcome address at the government news dissemination it would be of great advantage”. edition is the second ever to across Nigeria. to address the issues of low morale three-day 2021 annual retreat should take charge and move Stating that the theme be organised by Lagos State Marwa gave the charge during and stagnation in the career path for public affairs officers in the with trends, adding that after of the retreat, “Managing Government for its entire public a ceremony to decorate newly of personnel. state civil service. then, the issue of prevalent Information through the new affairs management team. promoted Deputy Commanders After due consideration of the General of Narcotics (DCGNs) and recommendations by the committee, Assistant Commanders General he approved the immediate 2023: Senate Chief Whip Urges INEC to Hold All Elections Same Day of Narcotics, (ACGNs). promotion of 2,910 officers between Goddy Egene Kalu said that presidential elections on the same day The statement reads: “The Marwa had on Thursday June the rank of Narcotic Assistant I election as well as the National would minimise cost, give INEC should conduct the 17, approved the immediate and Superintendent of Narcotics The Chief Whip of the Senate Assembly, governorship and the electorates opportunity 2023 elections same day promotion of 3,506 officers and while 596 others between Chief and former Governor of Abia State House of Assembly to vote their genuine choice as staggered elections are men to their next ranks, breaking Superintendent of Narcotics and State, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, elections could be concurrently and protect their votes. unnecessarily expensive. The the jinx of long years of stagnation Assistant Commander General of has called on the Independent taken care of on the same day Kalu also cited the United conduct of the elections in in the Agency. Narcotics were recommended to the National Electoral Commission rather than having staggered States, Ghana and Sierra Leone different days gives room for He described drug as the Board of the Agency for elevation to (INEC) to consider holding dates for them. as countries indulging in rigging, thuggery and several number one public enemy of their next ranks, a recommendation 2023 general elections same He said in a statement that same day election, adding vices. It also puts the lives of Nigeria, saying there was no that was approved by the Board day in order to reduce cost was personally signed by him that Nigeria will not be out the voters and INEC officials community in the country where on Wednesday June 16, 2021. and rigging. yesterday that holding 2023 of place to do same. on intense danger. drug abuse or the effect of drug CHANGE OF NAME CHANGE OF NAME I formally known and address as Enugu Court Remands Siblings for Alleged Murder of Make-up Artiste I formally known and address AYOBAMI OLUGBEMISOLA OLU- Gideon Arinze in Enugu thereafter, allegedly poured The prosecuting counsel, Mrs. additional witnesses in the matter, as OLUWATOYIN OLUMUYIWA SANYA, now wish to be known and corrosive chemicals all over Ngozi Ikem-Okoye, informed the noting that the application was SOLOMON OLUFEMI, now wish address as AYOBAMI OLUGBE- An Enugu State High Court her body. court about an oral motion as brought pursuant to Section 283 to be known and address as ADE- MISOLA ENIOLA - OLAITAN. All presided over by Justice I. K. The offence is contrary to well as a pending application for of the Administration of Criminal MUYIWA SOLOMON OLUFEMI. All former documents remain valid. The Okpe yesterday remanded two Sections 494 and 274 of the the amendment of the charges Justice Law. former documents remain valid. The general public take note. siblings allegedly involved in the Criminal Code, Cap 30, Vol.11, when the matter was called up. While responding, the defence general public take note. I formally known and address murder of a makeup artist, Ijeoma Laws of Enugu State 2004. In Ikem-Okoye said the oral motion counsel, Mr. C. U. Okafor, said he as OKERE IFUNAYA BLESS- Nneke, 27, in Enugu Correctional a suit number: E/67C/2021 to amend the charge was brought would not oppose the oral motion I, formerly known as ENADO Centre. The two siblings are between the state vs Chiamaka pursuant to Section 313 (3) of to correct the typographical errors SOFIA EMETITIRE now ING, now wish to be known and alleged to have conspired to Ifezue and Chukwuemeka Ifezue, the Administration of Criminal on the charges, however, he said wish to be known and ad- address as EBIJEH IFUNAYA kill Nneke in November 2020 Okpe adjourned the matter till Justice Law. the application that sought the dressed as IWEGBU SOFIA BLESSING. All former docu- in Enugu. They were said to August 25, 2021, following She said the prosecution also leave of the court to call more EMETITIRE. All former docu- ments remain valid. The general have compelled her to drink applications for the amendments had an application that sought witnesses was unnecessary as the ments remain valid. General public take note. a poisonous substance, and of the charges. the leave of the court to call accused had yet to take pleas. Public take note. I, formerly known and addressed as I formerly known as MMADU PRINCE NWAKAIBEYA CHUKWU- A’Ibom Condoles with Families of Deceased Corps CHIAMAKA LILIAN, now wish KADIBIA UDEBUANI, now wish to to be known and addressed be known and address as PRINCE Members Involved in Fatal Accident as IGWE CHIAMAKA LILIAN CHUKWUKA UZOEGBU. All former Okon Bassey in Uyo corps members passed away in decree of injuries in the accident deceased persons, comprising CLARE. All former documents documents remain valid. Please pub- an accident on the Abaji/Kwali were hospitalised at a nearby three males and one female, were remain valid. The general public lic take note. Akwa Ibom State Government has expressway en route to Katsina hospital.While describing the proud indigenes of the state, who should please take note. condoled with families of the five State where they were posted for incident as a colossal loss, the had distinguished themselves in I, formerly known and addressed deceased National Youth Service the mandatory NYSC orientation commissioner noted with regret character and learning in their I, formerly known and ad- as AJITE OLUBUNMI ELIZA- Corps (NYSC) members who died camp programme. An 18-seater bus and despair that four of the academic pursuit. dressed as AKUEWANBHOR BETH, now wish to be known in a fatal motor accident. The state conveying the prospective corps MARK, now wish to be known and address as ABEGUNDE OL- Commissioner for Youth and Sports, members from Uyo in Akwa Ibom and address as OKUDUWA UBUNMI ELIZABETH. All former Sir Monday Uko, commiserated State to Katsina State was reported Again, Unknown Gunmen MARK. All former documents with the families of the deceased to have run into a stationary trailer documents remain valid. Please in the wee hours of July 28, which remain valid. Please public public take note. in a statement issued yesterday Abduct Popular Night Club take note. in Uyo. led to their deaths. I, formerly known and addressed Uko noted that the dead Others who sustained various I, formerly known and addressed as MFON GRACE DAVID AKPA- Owner in Bayelsa as NAOMI OLACHI EZEH, now BIO, now wish to be known and Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa Wema Bank. wish to be known and address as address as GRACE MFON DAVID It was gathered that the victim NAOMI OLACHI AHIZECHUK- AKPABIO-OKUMBOR MRS. All Just a week after the abduction of was at his building site to pay WU. All former documents re- 90 years old mother of Bayelsa State workers when the gunmen invaded main valid. Please public take former documents remain valid. Please public take note. Secretary to the State Government, the place and whisked him away note. Madam Betinah Benson, unknown to an unknown destination. I, formerly known and ad- I, formerly known and addressed gunmen once again invaded While some eyewitnesses claimed dressed as ANYINA EGWU Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, the abduction may be connected as OLOWU CHRISTIANA IYA- CHINYERE, now wish to be BO, now wish to be known and and abducted a popular night club to the lavish manner he celebrated known and address as ANY- owner, identified as Mr. Tari Ajanani. his birthday recently, others argued address as IBRAHIM CHRISTIA- INA CHINYERE. All former Ajanami, an indigene of that he might have been kidnapped NA IYABO. All former documents Ayamasa town in Ekeremor Local for ransom demand. remain valid. Please public take documents remain valid. Please public take note. Government Area of the state, Meanwhile, the kidnappers of note. was abducted at about 6 p.m. on the mother of the SSG are yet to I, formerly known and addressed CONFIRMATION OF NAME Wednesday at his building project release her after over one week in as OKODOGBE ODIANOSEN This is to notify the general public site along Otiotio Road in the state captivity. MONDAY, now wish to be known that OWABOR MICHAEL SATUR- capital. Though the family has since kept DAY and OWABOR FRANK is the Ajanami, who is 43 years old, mute over negotiations with the and address as OKODOGBE same person, and now wish to be ODIANOSEN. All former docu- is the owner of the popular night kidnappers, the state government known as OWABOR FRANK. All club known as Club 64 along the said efforts is in top gear to fish out ments remain valid. Please pub- former documents remain valid. Bay ridge area of the state capital the kidnappers and bring her back lic take note. General public take note. and also work as a cash officer with home safely. FRIDAY,  ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY 47 Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email [email protected] FRIDAYSPORTS 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY TOKYO 2020 OLYMPICS BASKETBALL D’Tigress Clash with France Okagbare Blames with Eyes on First Win Nigeria’s D’Tigress will be them 22 points to 11. Power Tussle in back in action in the women’s And if they re-enact that basketball event this morning fi rst and fourth quarters’ as they take on France at performance in Saitama, 9.20am Nigerian time. France would be in a lot AFN for Ban of 10 Both sides will be hoping of trouble. to fi nish on a winning note D’Tigress’ have a reputation and bag their fi rst win of the of forcing opponents to Tokyo Olympics after losing commit turnovers and their respective tournament translating those turnovers Nigerian Athletes openers. into easy offence. It was France lost 74-70 to Japan a strategy the Japanese on Tuesday in a game the deployed on Tuesday. host nation churned out France struggled to get into "They were busy fi ghting a gritty defensive display their offence as the Japanese accompanied by some looked to trap their guards over power, exercising their ruthless shooting from with double and triple teams beyond the arc. while also capitalising on pride over PUMA contract/ It was a performance the defensive lapses in the French French would want to forget team to knock down 3-point in a hurry, but if D’Tigress shots. In all, Japan made 11 kits forgetting their major begin Friday’s match the same three-pointers against the way they started and ended French. responsibility THE ATHLETES” Tuesday’s 81-72 loss to Team With a team not dependent USA, then it might just be déjà on a single player for scoring, Duro Ikhazuagbe over power, exercising the track & fi eld events starting Atlanta in 1996. Her winning vu for the Europeans. D’Tigress can make it two their pride over PUMA today in Tokyo. 7.12m jump was only this year Nigeria raced to a 20-17 losses in a row for France. Nigeria’s sprint Queen, Blessing contract/kits forgetting their Also cleared to contest are earned by Ese Brume who is fi rst-quarter lead against Team But if they go about their Okagbare has lambasted sports major responsibility THE sprint hurdler, Tobiloba Amusan aiming to repeat the feat in USA, but they surrendered that business as lethargically as administrators involved in the ATHLETES. It’s sad that who is ranked number four in Tokyo. lead and were behind 70-50 at they did in the second and power tussle in the last board this circle keeps repeating the 100m hurdles; long jumper Nigeria’s 4x400m relay the end of the third quarter. third quarters of that loss to of the Athletics Federation of itself and some people will Ese Brume who tops the world team of Sunday Bada, Enefi ok However, D’Tigress Team USA, then it just might Nigeria (AFN) for the banning come out to say I am arrogant list in her event coming to the Udo-Obong, Clement Chukwu, dominated the defending be the Nigerians having the of 10 Nigerian athletes from the for speaking my truth. It is games and Grace Nwokocha, Nduka Awazie, Jude Monye Olympic Games champions in feeling of déjà vu at the end ongoing Tokyo 2020 Olympic my CAREER,” observed the the home-based sensation who and Fidelis Tafi da Gadzama the fourth quarter, outscoring of the game. Games. double sprint gold medalists clocked 11.09 seconds in March won the silver that was later On Wednesday, Nigeria at the Commonwealth Games at the MOC Grand Prix in upgraded to gold after USA accounted for half of the in Glasgow, Scotland in 2014. Lagos to seal her qualifi cation was disqualifi ed for dope 20 athletes disqualifi ed by Okagbare who made her for the Tokyo Games. infraction. Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) fourth appearance at the Others are the trio of Divine arm of the World Athletics Olympics running in the Oduduru, Enoch Adegoke and BANNED from seven countries on the women’s 100m heat early this Ushoritse Itshekiri who will be Favour Ofi li account of AFN offi cials unable morning, further blamed men competing in the men's 100m Ruth Usoro to understand the application who lacked knowledge about while Oduduru will also race in Chidi Okezie of Rule 15 of AIU which has sports running track & fi eld the 200m, an event he holds the Chioma Onyekwere been in operation in the last in the country. national record of 19.73 seconds three years. “I have said it before and I which he set two years ago in Annett e Echikunwoche Nigeria had 10 athletes will say it again: If you do not Austin, Texas in the USA to Rosemary Chukwuma banned while Belarus (3), know the sport, not passionate win the NCAA gold. Knowledge Omovoh Ethiopia (1), Kenya (2), Morocco about it/Us (the athletes), then Shot putter Chukwuebuka Yinka Ajayi (1), Ukraine (3), and Bahrain (0) you have no business there as Enekwechi who made it to Glory Patrick complete the list of countries an administrator,” stressed the the event's fi nal at the World Tima Godbless whose athletes missed three Sapele-born speedster who also Athletics Championship in Out of Competition Tests have a World Championships Doha, Qatar in 2019 is also CLEARED (OCT). silver and a bronze to show cleared to compete. Enoch Adegoke Okagbare who won a from the Moscow edition in The 4x400m mixed relay women’s long jump bronze 2013. quartet of Imaobong Nse Uko, Tobi Amusan medal at the Beijing 2008 She decried the situation Patience Okon-George, Nataniel Ese Brume Olympics (later upgraded to where athletes are made to Samson and Ifeanyi Ojeli are Chukwuebuka silver following the banning bear the brunt of ineptitude also cleared to compete and Enekwechi AITEO CUP: Eunisell of a Russian jumper), took of failed administrators. will be in action today in the Patience Okon George to Twitter yesterday to “The sport system in Nigeria fi rst semifi nal heat. Usheoritse Itsekiri Backs Rivers Utd for Final appropriately put the blame is so fl awed and we athletes, are Athletics accounts for 13 of Samson Nathaniel Eunisell, sponsor of Nigeria strong character in previous on the doorsteps of the AFN always at the receiving end of the 25 medals won by Nigeria Grace Nwokocha Professional Football League matches,” Eunisell said in a board members that were the damage,” Okagbare recalled so far at the Olympic and two Divine Oduduru side, Rivers United, has backed statement yesterday. involved in the fi ght to control with sadness. of the three gold medals. Emmanuel Ojeli the Port-Harcourt-based team Head Coach, Stanley Eguma, the federation to the detriment Meanwhile, Okagbare is Chioma Ajunwa won to reach the fi nal of the 2021 won the knock out tournament of the athletes. leading the other 11 Nigerian the country’s fi rst and only Blessing Okagbare Nse ImaObong Uko AITEO Cup. in 2001, in his fi rst attempt. “They were busy fi ghting athletes cleared to feature in individual gold medal at Rivers United and It promises to be a titanic neighbours, Bayelsa United, clash as Rivers United play will contend for a place in the in the top fl ight and is tipped fi nals, when they clash in the to overcome the second tier semi fi nals today at the Agege campaigners. ...AFN Appoints Anugweje Head of its Stadium. Rivers United has a strong “Eunisell is confi dent Rivers record in Nigeria’s Cup history United has the quality to reach with victories in 2001, 2004, Medical and Anti-Doping Commission the fi nals and win the Cup. 2006 and 2007, respectively, The Athletics Federation of federation yesterday. deemed not to have complied The Delta Sports Commission Victory in the semi-fi nal will when it was known as Nigeria (AFN) President Tonobok The AFN president assures with WADA sample collection Chairman also assured all that set the stage for the fi nals. It Dolphins. Okowa has announced the stakeholders that the federation and analysis standards. It must the 12 athletes cleared for the is an opportunity to showcase Eunisell, West Africa’s largest appointment of Professor Ken has put in place appropriate be noted that no Nigerian athlete Games are in high spirit and will the Eunisell values. independent chemical as well Anugweje as the federation's measures to comply with Rule tested positive to prohibited strive to rewrite the unwanted “Rivers United have the as oil and gas engineering head of its Medical and Anti- 15 of the Anti-Doping Rules of substances,” stressed Okowa records recorded at the last two players and coaching crew to solutions company, has been Doping Commission. World Athletics and explained who took over as President Olympics when the team failed reach the fi nals of the AITEO sponsor of Rivers United since Okowa made the why 10 of the athletes did not just last month. to win any medal. Cup. The team has displayed its formation in 2016. announcement Thursday in receive the clearance to compete Tokyo after the federation at the game from the AIU. took responsibility following ''All our athletes resident in the clearance by the Athletics Nigeria and who qualifi ed for Enyimba FC Stand by Oladapo Despite Dope Case Integrity Unit (AIU) of 12 out the Olympic Games completed of the 22 athletes registered for the three mandatory tests. Most Femi Solaja have tested positive to banned CAF found Oladapo guilty the decision, it is pertinent to the track and fi eld events of the of our top athletes resident in the substance prednisolone in the of a failed dope test and fi rst clarify that as a club, we ongoing Games of the XXXII USA also completed their tests,” The management of Enyimba Confederation Cup quarter banned him from playing for have a strict code of conduct Olympiad in Tokyo, Japan. Okowa said in the statement FC has throw its weight fi nal fi rst leg match against the next calendar year when that shows zero tolerance to ''The federation has taken this and gives reasons why the 10 behind its Captain, Austin Pyramids FC of Egypt on May the Disciplinary Committee hard drugs or any banned proactive step to avoid future athletes, seven of whom are Oladapo, who was this week 16th, 2021. met to take decision on several substance. occurrences by appointing based in the United States of banned for one year by the The Aba Elephant said in matters affecting football in That is why there had Professor Ken Anugweje as America (USA) failed to get the Confederation of African a statement yesterday that it all its competitions. never been any record of a the head of the Medical and clearance needed. Football (CAF) for failing will stand by their player in But yesterday, Enyimba positive dope test for any Anti- Doping Commission of ''A few athletes in the dope test. this trying time and would also Chairman, Felix Anyasi Agwu, of our players, either in the the Federation,” Okowa said American collegiate system Last Monday in its ruling, not wish to stand toe-to toe stated that “while the club domestic or international in a statement issued by the were tested, but those tests were CAF found the Nigerian star to against the continental body. still have the option to appeal competitions.

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PDP to Buhari “It is disheartening that while Mr. President is spending tax payers’ money relishing the expertise of London doctors and the luxury of 26years medical facilities in that country, millions of Nigerians are dying in decrepit medical facilities at home” – PDP National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, berating the President for his recurring medical trips abroad, at the expense of impoverished Nigerians. PATUTOMI GUEST COLUMNIST Fola Alade, a True Iroko Found the Turf he evidence that Nigeria needs redemption Armada, and made the wait to is everywhere. berth at our ports a multiple month It’s not normal that pigmies affair, would finish into modest exit and their cohorts shout dwelling as Chief Fola Alade did. usT deaf about the great exit of an I met him when his Allen Avenue home icon but we cannot find what they was like building a house in Sangotedo built and the lives they touched. Yet on the Lekki-Epe Axis, today. Irokos fall in the forest and the Forest He seemed happy enough living Ranger feigns deafness, as if Bandits there when many of his subor- are waiting to kidnap anyone who dinates found themselves homes gives away their position with a cough. in Ikoyi and Victoria Island. This paradox of the Nigerian condition Even in his simplicity, he created the kidnapped my faculties when a Fola Alade brand. His dress sense was true Iroko, builder of Architectural avant-garde and unique. Whenever I complexes, and of men and women, saw him in his Beret and boy scout and of the Nation, waved goodbye, necktie, I was usually reminded of with the same gentle dignity he lived Pablo Picasso. Clearly, his Zaria School a life of impact, and I did not hear Artists contemporaries at the Nigeria the expected thunderous roar from College of Arts Science and Technol- those he served so diligently, for so ogy, that was precursor to Ahmadu long, in several roles. Bello University would be green with Even though I was out of the country eny at his fashion sense. With a little when Chief Fola Alade took his last touch of the eccentric to his fashion curtain call and bowed deeply for statement Architect, Fola Alade must the last time on this side of the great have made the Zaria nobels of the divide, I expected his impactful life, Arts school slightly envious of this with the glow of his accomplishments Zanny Architects gear up. would have generated a thunderstorm Even at that, he would prove to be of salutes. Even with the show of his the disciplined Federal Permanent works so glaring, and still breathing Secretary, the first from his stock, so stoutly in facilities large and small, playing John the Baptist for current edifices quaint and monumental, and day NIA President , Architect Sonny lives big and small, our failing to Echeno who is Permanent Secretary acknowledge true greatness persisted. in the Federal Ministry of Education? It was normal to assume that the As I scope the problems of today’s rumble in the jungle, as the strike Nigeria, I realize that more than of the earth by the great branches 80 percent of the problems flow of the Iroko, with the passing of Chief Fola Alade from simple matter of not finding Architect Fola Alade, if not as earth leaders who can engage objectively shaking as Alli/ Foreman rumble age of 87, was a word association , unbound by age, tribe, or tongue. with strangers, people they do not in the jungle from Ziare in 1974, with the man, his legend, and his Not many who served at senior know but manage to build preconcep- should have loud enough that I reality, which unveiled the person positions, superintending building tions about. As Malcolm Gladwell should have felt the tremors of behind the persona. The words development, and construction, at a notes, in his book on Talking To praise from Chicago where I was. tumbled out without effort; decent, time we were in a construction frenzy Strangers, this problen has dogged Is it probably because we failed to jovial, straight in your face frank so loud the importation of cement humanity throughout history. pay enough regard to history, or is it talker, dignified, draped in integrity for the purpose created a cement With Chief Fola Alade who talked easi- because we banned it’s being taught ly with strangers, that was not an issue. in schools that this generation should I had a group of American friends, respond to such a landmark as a fare- who were his neighbours on Allen well wave by so grand a personage, Avenue. With them, and stranger not withstanding the tempering of One of the fi rst things that struck me s both American and Nigerian, we the grandiose state of his standing by spent many pleasant moments. the deliberate humility of his mien, when I heard of his departure, at the There was hardly a dull moment and so does not seek the attention. with this pleasant and simple icon One of our earliest and foremost age of 87, was a word association with who could make you laugh and Public Sector Architects, he left his cry at the same time. Surely Peter imprimatur on buildings around the Enahoro ( Peter Pan) was right to then Federal Capital of Nigeria, Lagos, the man, his legend, and his reality, write that you galta cry to laugh. and beyond into the country. This patch of God’s Real Estate will As young people with limited in- which unveiled the person behind surely miss Architect Fola Alade, the terest and exposure to Architecture Chief of esteem and profound dignity we still used to be able to look at a the persona. The words tumbled out who had a common touch and universal Federal building and see, feel, and appeal, yet was simple to the end. almost smell a Fola Alade touch. without effort; decent, jovial, straight We urge safe travels past the But many of my friends were not as many rivers and hills on the way lucky as I was. I actually got to know in your face frank talker, dignifi ed, to the gate of paradise and the the man and to enjoy his delight- escort of bubbly angels. Farewell. ful charming and warm company. draped in integrity, unbound by age, One of the first things that struck me rPatrick Okedinachi Utomi when I heard of his departure, at the tribe, or tongue Founder, Centre for Values in Leadership 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]