Buhari Locks Down Lagos, Ogun, Abuja As COVID-19 Cases Rise To

FG Directs Oil Firms to Cut Offshore Workforce NNPC, DPR differ over Nigeria’s petrol stock Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja of COVID-19 pandemic in the on essential duties should be Petroleum Corporation the current nationwide supply for travel to offshore/swamp country. nominated and permitted to (NNPC) and the DPR at of the product. location and obtainment of The federal government has Director, the Department of travel to offshore and other the weekend disagreed over “All travels to and from offshore safety Permit 2019,” it directed oil and gas companies Petroleum Resources (DPR), remote locations. the country’s total stock of offshore/remote locations stated, adding: “Non-essential to reduce the workforce on Mr. Sarki Auwalu, said in a The circular was issued petrol, as fears continue to shall strictly be in line with their offshore platforms in view circular in Abuja that only staff just as the Nigerian National grow over the sustainability of the guidelines and procedure Continued on page 10

ASUU Demands N1.1tn for Universities’ Revitalisation... Page 8

Monday 30 March, 2020 Vol 25. No 9121. Price: N250

www.thisdaylive.com T RU N TH & REASO ARISE TV Panelists Laud Nigeria’s Handling of Pandemic Warn of tougher days ahead Our Correspondents Channel, the broadcast arm but warned the federal health practitioners around the how it would handle the next halt the spread of the virus. of THISDAY Newspapers, government not to rest on world, among others, alerted few weeks would determine Among the contributors Contributors at a forum yesterday lauded Nigeria’s its oars. the federal government that whether or not Nigeria would organised by Arise TV management of COVID-19 The panelists, comprising tougher days were ahead and be able to flatten the curve and Continued on page 10 Buhari Locks Down Lagos, Ogun, Abuja as COVID-19 Cases Rise to 111 Suspends flight operations Promises stipend for vulnerable people, gives three-month moratorium on development bank loans I feel well, says Kyari, moves to Lagos for further tests Anambra, Ekiti, Benue, Ogun, Yobe, Abia close borders Dangote, Sanusi, Bello test negative Stallion group pledges rice and fish supply to govt hospitals Air Peace evacuates 274 Israelis to Tel-Aviv Our Correspondents full restriction of movements within the three areas for 14 With effect from 11.00 p.m. days. today, Lagos State, the Fourteen fresh cases were epicentre of COVID-19 in recorded yesterday to bring Nigeria; the neighbouring the tally to 111 with nine new Ogun State, and the Federal infections recorded in Lagos Capital Territory (FCT), would and five in FCT, according be locked down, President to data from NCDC Twitter Muhammadu Buhari directed account. yesterday. The presidential broadcast The president, in a came on the same day Buhari’s nationwide broadcast in Chief of Staff, Mallam Abba which he outlined efforts by Kyari, in a statement signed his administration to contain by him and posted on the the virus, which as at yesterday official twitter handle of the had infected 111 people, with presidency, @NGRPresident, one death, directed the Federal broke his silence on his Ministry of Health and the COVID-19 status, saying on Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to ensure Continued on page 10 Celebrating 68, Tinubu Donates MR. PRESIDENT ON COVID-19... N200m to Fight COVID-19... Page 9 President Muhammadu Buhari during his nationwide broadcast on COVID-19 in Abuja…yesterday 2 MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 •THISDAY MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 • THISDAY 3 4 MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 •THISDAY MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 • THISDAY 5 6 MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 •THISDAY MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 • THISDAY 7 8 MONDAY, ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͸˾THISDAY

Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike NEWS Email [email protected], 08066066268 ASUU Demands N1.1tn for Universities’ Revitalisation Accuses FG of breaching 2019 pact Union hasn't notified govt about strike, says Ngige Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja balance of the arrears up to 2016 universities. government of trying to apply Ogunyemi, however, said Senator Chris Ngige, told should be paid by the federal He said the failure to “carrot and stick approach” the union was still open for THISDAY that ASUU was yet to Academic Staff Union of government while it would be honour these agreements had in order to intimidate and dialogue, adding that the inform the federal government Universities (ASUU) has given enough time to calculate angered members of the union, hoodwink the lecturers into union has forwarded a notice that it had embarked on strike. demanded N1.1trillion from the what was outstanding for 2017 fuelling their decision at the submission by seizing their of commencement of strike to "We have not received notice federal government for what it and 2018. NEC meeting to immediately February salaries and offering the federal government. of strike from ASUU and until described as the revitalisation of “Again, it was agreed that the commence the indefinite strike. them some amount as in lieu However, the Minister of we do we will not comment the universities. government should mainstream He accused the federal of EAA. Labour and Employment, on the matter," he said. Speaking to THISDAY on the the payment of the allowances indefinite industrial action by in the annual budget as from the union, ASUU President, Prof. 2019 but nothing happened," Biodun Ogunyemi, said the union he said. embarked on the strike to compel ASUU president explained that the federal government to honour the agreement with the federal an agreement it entered into in government was that it would 2009, which was renegotiated pay EAA in four installments in 2019. beginning in November 2019. He said the National Executive According to him, the Committee (NEC) of the union government reneged on the deal rejected the federal government’s and did not bother to reach out proposals on the amount to be to the union on why it could not released for revitalisation of meet the payment obligation. universities, payment of earned He said members of ASUU academic allowances and timeline were displeased and had insisted for setting up visitation panels that the government must go for universities. back to the original plan or at When asked to state the least release N220 billion as a specific areas of dispute with demonstration of commitment the federal government, ASUU to the pact. president said: "We have outlined Ogunyemi also listed other issues that are outstanding from issues in dispute to include our 2019 agreement, including the non-setting up of visitation the revitalisation of universities, panels, which was supposed to which the government promised have been done latest March 2019; to process the report of the checking the poor funding of state inter-ministerial committee on universities and arranging for a sustainable sources of funding. platform using the auspices of They gave us that document but the National Economic Council there was nowhere it mentioned (NEC) to hold discussions with UBA AGAINST COVID-19... the outstanding balance of about governors on how to address Group Managing Director/CEO, United Bank for Africa, Mr. Kennedy Uzoka (left), and Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo- N1.1 trillion in terms of timeline the situation and the issue of on how to inject that fund into granting an official licence to Olu, during the presentation of a cheque of N1 billion to the governor as the UBA Foundation’s donation to the ﬁght against revitalising our universities.” Nigeria Universities Pension COVID-19 in Lagos...yesterday Ogunyemi added that on Company (NUPENCO) to ensure the issue of Earned Academic sustainable and accountable Activities (EAA), both sides management of the pension had in 2019 agreed that the of the academic staff of the NCDC Prioritises COVID-19 Residents Groan as Lockdown by States Takes Toll Test for High Profiled Nigerians Our Correspondents between the state and Rivers and Martins Ifijeh samples can be taken. having symptoms. “Although the World Delta states through which food Revealing this to THISDAY, “For those who reply in the Health Organisation (WHO) The closure of markets and supplies enter the state. Nigeria Centre for Disease an epidemiologist with NCDC affirmative, we try to find out recommends for more testing, boundaries by some states as part In Niger State, the curfew Control (NCDC) has been in Lagos State, who preferred which kind of symptoms they you know we have limited of the efforts to contain the spread imposed by Governor Abubakar conducting COVID-19 tests to remain anonymous, said have. If this doesn’t meet the reagents, so we try to ensure of the COVID-19 pandemic has Sani Bello has virtually paralysed on high profiled Nigerians, NCDC does not have enough symptoms we are looking those who are tested are inflicted economic hardships on the socio-economic life of the who demanded for it, but reagents to go round, hence for, we tell them to access those who really meet our residents of the states, THISDAY’s people as all markets have asked ‘ordinary’ citizens he advised people to adhere healthcare in any government requirements. Many people investigation has revealed. remained closed for the period who also requested for same strictly to the case-definition hospital near them. call in but only a few are In Bayelsa State, the total of the curfew. to strictly follow its case- before being qualified for “If they had a contact with qualified. When we don’t shutdown declared by the Petrol filling stations are also definition rule for testing; a testing. confirmed cases as well, we oblige others, they go on government has led to the scarcity closed during the period of the situation that has left many “However, there are also ask the same questions. social media to say we are of basic food items, whose prices curfew with many vehicles on unattended to, THISDAY can occasions where we get Once the person meets these not working,” the source have now been hiked between the queues at the filling stations confirm. directives to go take samples case definitions, we come told THISDAY. 50 and 300 per cent, especially in waiting for the period the stations NCDC’s case-definition of a high profiled person, over to take samples.” Asked if politicians who Yenagoa, the state capital. would start dispensing fuel. rule for undergoing testing his family members, staff Recently, social media has were being tested met the Among items whose prices The curfew has also affected for the COVID-19 says for and close allies. We can’t been awash with complaints requirements, he said: “This have shot up are sachet water the religious lives of the people anyone to be tested for say no because that is the of Nigerians who have is Nigeria. They have their otherwise called pure water, as all mosques were shut against the virus, the person must order from above. And you requested for tests k home way around things. The grains, yam, garri, tomatoes worshipers on Friday while have travelled into Nigeria know on many occasions we to her family. decision to test them or not and food condiments. Christians observed the Sunday from a high risk country, or end up wasting the reagents A Social Media Skit- does not lie with us,” adding Investigation at Okordia- prayers at their homes. must have had direct contact we do not have because these Comedian, Sydney Talker, that most of the complaints Zarama, a rural market and The residents of Kaduna are with a confirmed case, and, people may not really meet has also complained of not come from Lagos and not Swali market in the urban area also groaning under the effects of in addition to any of these the case definition. being attended to after he Abuja. of the state capital showed that a the 24-hour curfew imposed on definitions, the person must “For instance, in the case of allegedly exhibited symptoms NCDC Director-General, four-litre plastic container of garri, the state by the state government have had visible symptoms of a popular musician and his of COVID-19. Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, had which sold for between N500 to curb the spread COVID-19. COVID-19 before requesting girlfriend, the agency wasted He said: “A week ago I told Arise News Channel, and N600 before the shutdown, Security personnel were for testing. 33 reagents because it tested came down with symptoms THISDAY’s broadcast arm, at now sells for N1,500. deployed in major roads and Although many of the 33 persons around Davido. of COVID-19, called NCDC the weekend that the agency A bag of pure water now goes streets in the metropolis to ensure high profiled persons who Although his girlfriend tested and was told to go to any does not turn away people for N150 as against N100 and strict enforcement of the curfew. have been attended to by positive, the other persons hospital for treatment. Till who request for testing, tomatoes heap, which was N300 Residents said with the curfew, NCDC did not show visible all tested negative. These now the agency did not adding that it has put a lot is now N800. they were finding it difficult to symptoms of the virus, they, people did not meet our attend to me.” of things in place to ensure Frozen fish, meat, vegetables, meet basic needs, like food and along with their families, case definition, but what Sharing his thoughts, every call to the toll lines fruits, and other edible items other necessities. staff and close allies have can we do,” he added. another staff of NCDC in are responded to. were also affected by the food Many of those who spoke been tested, while many He also emphasized that Abuja, who also preferred He also warned that those inflation. Similarly, the price to THISDAY in an interview ‘ordinary’ Nigerians who in an ideal situation, what to remain anonymous, told who came into the country of food at restaurants has also yesterday, said they had run may have also travelled to NCDC does is that when THISDAY that a lot of top from high-risk nations should gone up from N300 per plate to short of foodstuffs and basic high risk countries or had Nigerians call the toll free persons in the Federal Capital self-isolate for 14 days, and between N400 and N500. things. contact with confirmed cases lines, they are asked whether Territory (FCT) in Abuja do that if they notice symptoms Traders and food vendors They called on the government are been asked to wait until they have travelled to high- not bother calling public of the disease, they should blamed the scarcity and high risk areas; if they say ‘yes’, lines, as they have their reach out to the agency for Continued on page 12 they have visible symptoms prices on the closure of borders of COVID-19 before their they are asked if they are way of calling in for tests. testing and other protocols. MONDAY, ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͸˾THISDAY 9 NEWS Celebrating 68, Tinubu Donates N200m to Fight COVID-19 Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja, (PGF); Lagos State Governor, directly affect the people. bar of governance as well as relentless commitment and love your impression of him is a Segun Awofadeji in Gombe, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; his “He has remained consistent public service in the state," for the nation and democracy. function of the side of him Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo, counterparts from Osun, Alhaji in advocating for matters that he said. He said with his pedigree you decide to portray per time, Laleye Dipo in Minna, and Gboyega Oyetola; Ogun, Prince unite Nigerians and also promote Abiodun also praised Tinubu and track records of mentoring, quintessential politician,” he said, Kayode Fasua in Abeokuta Dapo Abiodun; Gombe, Alhaji the economic development of for standing firm as a principled guidance and support for describing Tinubu as “leaders' Muhammadu Yahaya; and Niger, the country,” he said. politician who could not be upcoming leaders to accomplish leader, nation builder, reputable National Leader of the All Alhaji Sani Bello. Lalong acknowledged the swayed by extraneous influence. their dreams, Tinubu has written entrepreneur, astute manager, Progressives Congress (APC) The Chairman of PGF and contributions of the celebrant as He said: “It’s no means to be his name in gold in the annals visionary, emeritus governor, and former Lagos State governor, Governor of Kebbi State, Alhaji APC national leader and one of who you are: elected senator in of Nigeria and earned for boardroom guru, distinguished Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Abubakar Bagudu, in a statement its founding fathers, saying he Lagos and twice as governor. himself, national and global accountant, talent hunter and yesterday marked his 68th issued yesterday, described continued to provide exemplary You survived in the face of all accolades and respect. political fighter.” birthday, donating N200m to Tinubu as a unifying and rallying leadership for the ruling party. odds and remain the main man Yahaya, who said the APC Similarly, Niger State governor, the fight against COVID-19. point for all. He noted that the politician standing. leader personified courage in a statement by his Chief He said he could not celebrate He commended Tinubu's ensured he maintained harmony “Like phoenix, Tinubu in leadership and patriotism, Press Secretary, Ms. Mary big because of the circumstances leadership and commitment among members of the party. is un-cowed as the face of saluted his abiding faith in Berje, described Tinubu as a of the global pandemic. to a united prosperous Nigeria. Sanwo-Olu, in a message by progressive politics, national ideals of democracy and the true democrat and a blessing But governors on his party’s "We acknowledge your his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. leader of the APC, irrepressible Nigerian project. to the nation. platform, the Progressive contributions to our team of Gboyega Akosile, described statesman and a titan; one Also Oyetola in a statement "Turning 68 is a huge Governors’ Forum (PGF), as well progressive governors through Tinubu as a pathfinder, a whose unconditional service by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. milestone, especially to someone, as Northern Governors’ Forum your insightful and resolute visionary leader and a rare and time-tested leadership Ismail Omipidan, described the who never gets tired of doing (NGF) felicitated with him, saying inputs to the processes of mentor, who has contributed to inspire hope in most of us.” former Lagos State governor as great things in great ways; he has become their rallying point managing governance in Nigeria the socio-political and economic On his part, Gombe State one of the few political geniuses someone who has provided the and a national bridge builder. as well as within our great party. development of Lagos and governor, described Tinubu Nigeria and indeed the world much-needed guide on each step “The circumstances this year "As our national leader, you Nigeria. as a true democrat, a rare was blessed with, describing of the way; someone who in spite prevent us from gathering certainly represent our unifying "Asiwaju, as a pathfinder, breed and large hearted him as a man of many parts. of the cumbersome nature of our together to celebrate my birthday and rallying point for all. navigated and charted the individual who sacrificed a “Describe him as a man of political terrain has successfully but I would still like to mark "Once more, as we rejoice with developmental course of lot for Nigeria, describing as many parts and you will not led us in the right direction," the occasion,” Tinubu tweeted, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, modern Lagos and raised the legendary and inspiring, his be far from the mark. Indeed, he stated. adding: “That is why I have we advise all Nigerians to stay chosen today to announce that at home and stay safe until I will be making a donation of we continue to work together N200 million to fight this deadly towards overcoming the current virus. Pursuant to this pledge, COVID-19 global pandemic," he N100 million will be made said. available to the government of The NGF has also joined others Lagos State and another N100 to celebrate Tinubu. million to the NCDC to support The chairman of the forum their efforts in fighting the scourge and Plateau State Governor, Mr. of COVID-19.” Simon Lalong, described the party The APC chieftain expressed leader as one of Nigeria’s finest the hope that the pandemic politicians. would be defeated. “Together, Lalong, in a statement by his we will overcome this disease,” Director of Press and Public he stated even as he regretted Affairs, Dr. Makut Macham, that the colloquium that usually in Jos, described Tinubu as a heralded the celebrations would personality worthy of note. not hold. He described him as a man, who understood the best way Govs Eulogise APC to connect with the people and National Leader canvass for their interests. “Senator Bola Tinubu is a Among those who felicitated leader who serves with diligence, with Tinubu were Northern courage and compassion in such a Governors Forum (NGF); the manner that he clearly articulates Progressive Governors Forum and canvasses for issues that Air Peace Evacuates 274 Israelis to Tel-Aviv FIGHTING THE VIRUS... Chinedu Eze having direct flights. Nigeria is Health oﬃcials fumigating a street in Abuja...yesterday a land of huge potential, which Nigeria’s biggest carrier, Air Israel may be willing to tape Peace, has evacuated about 274 into, while Nigeria will want to Israelis from Murtala Muhammed tap into science and technology, Power Supply Drops to 3,899MW International Airport (MMIA) in which Israel is known for. Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe “I really want to thank the International Airport in Abuja federal government of Nigeria to Israel. for making this possible. Israel said it evacuated its Previous administrations were over Sustained Gas Shortage citizens because of fears of unable to pull this through, the increasing spread of the but this government did it. Chineme Okafor in Abuja Within that week, the the covered week; Omotosho 2020, due to constraints from COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. We have a compassionate country’s power sector lost NIPP, which could not produce the insufficient gas supply, The flight, which airlifted government; that I can tell Despite the claim by the N13.6 billion with a shortage 506MW and Ihovbor plant, distribution infrastructure, and 65 passengers from Lagos and you. It is difficult to get flight Transmission Company of of gas supply to generation which also failed to produce transmission infrastructure,” 209 passengers from Abuja, was permits even during this critical Nigeria (TCN) that gas shortage companies (Gencos) blamed 506MW. Osinbajo’s office said. operated by Air Peace Boeing period of emergencies from other to power generating plants would for the low generation figure. On a day-to-day basis, the TCN had on March 8 reported 777-300 with registration number countries, but Nigeria did not only last for 10 days from March Between March 21 and 27, statistics showed that on March a decline in gas supply to some 5N-BWI. waste a second to approve this 8, THISDAY finding has shown the figure for the volume of 21, the ensuing shortage of gas Gencos, which it said would The Chairman and CEO of flight. The Minister of Aviation, that the crisis is still lingering. power distributed dropped to led to the loss of 3,568MW of last for 10 days. Air Peace, Mr. Allen Onyema, Senator Hadi Sirika, approved Consequently, the volume of 3,899MW while constrained electricity; on March 22; it rose to With the gas supply situation described the flight as historical the request the moment it was electricity allocated to the 11 volume increased to 4,646MW. 4,024.5MW and remained at the at the weekend, the gas shortage because it was the first time presented to him. All the heads distribution companies (Discos) The financial costs of the decline same level on March 23 before has lasted more than the Nigeria and Israel would have of aviation agencies gave their from the national grid last week also rose to N15.6 billion. dropping to 3,934.5MW where projected 10 days. a direct flight and expressed support, which made the flight dropped to 3,899 megawatts According to the data, it remained on March 25. The affected Gencos were hope that subsequently the two possible. So it is the federal (MW) from the previous week 13 Gencos had gas supply The figure for the constrained Sapele NIPP, Olorunsogo NIPP, countries would have scheduled government that made the of 4,139MW. shortages, which affected their volumes, however, went up to Ihovbor NIPP, and Azura Edo direct flights between Lagos and evacuation possible.” The power production and production capacities between 4,099.5MW on March 26 and power plants, which generated Tel-Aviv. According to him, the distribution statistics obtained March 21 and 27. further to 4,144.5MW on 27. zero megawatt of electricity He said: “It is a historic Israeli government supported from the Advisory Power The affected Gencos were “On March 27, 2020, average during the period. day for both Nigeria and and allowed for the first time Team in the Office of the Vice Azura-Edo, which lost an energy sent out was 3,906MWH/ “Other thermal power plants Israel. History has been made a Nigerian airline to operate President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, average of 153MW; Calabar Hour (down by 67.42MW from equally affected but which today. Sixty years of diplomatic a direct flight to Israel, noting which THISDAY reviewed, NIPP – 126.5MW; Delta the previous day). 4,144.5MW generated lower capacities relations, no direct flight has been that this is something good for covered a period of two weeks (Transcorp) – 162.5MW; Alaoji was not generated due to the include Egbin (Steam), Sapele conducted between Nigeria and both countries, “good for our starting from March 14 to 27. – 126.5MW; Okpai – 219MW; unavailability of gas. 211.1MW (Steam), Delta (gas), Geregu Israel till today. So this is the diplomatic relations.” It showed that between March Geregu NIPP – 504MW; Geregu was not generated due to high (gas), Omotosho (gas), Olorusogo first time Nigeria and Israel will “So I feel proud, I feel 14 and 20, the average volume – 385MW; Rivers – 180MW; frequency resulting from the (gas), Geregu NIPP, Alaoji NIPP, have direct air connectivity. So it privileged to be part of this of electricity sent to homes and Omotosho – 210MW and unavailability of distribution Omotosho NIPP, Odukpani is a historic day and it portends history and I thank God for it. offices in the country was Afam – 217MW. infrastructure. The power NIPP, Okpai (Gas/Steam) and greater things to come. Both We have to build from here now 4,139MW, while constrained Others were Sapele, which lost sector lost an estimated Omoku (gas) power generating countries have a lot to gain by going forward. volume was 4,069MW. an average of 379.5MW within N2,091,000,000 on March 27, plants,” TCN said. 10 MONDAY, ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͸˾THISDAY PAGE 10 FG DIRECTS OIL FIRMS TO CUT OFFSHORE WORKFORCE staff currently at offshore/ compliance with the above (PPMC), a subsidiary of the as the country has adequate Kyari said: “There is is no need to buy more than remote locations should be while we continue to monitor NNPC, as well as major and stock, adding that NNPC has absolutely no scarcity you require at any time. We withdrawn with immediate the situation and provide independent marketers at the support of all stakeholders anywhere; our supply is will keep you supplied.” effect.” updates as required,” it said. 935,570,757 litres. to ensure an adequate supply robust, we have fuel that He explained that states It directed that staff rotation Meanwhile, NNPC and “Applying the estimated of petroleum products. will last this country even had all consented to allow less than 28 days had been DPR at the weekend disagreed daily national demand of On the apprehension for 60 days assuming we do movements of fuel trucks and temporarily suspended, over the country’s total stock 38,200,000 litres, available caused by the threat by not import any. operation of stations during implying that staff were of petrol. depot PMS stock of the National Association “Of course, people because any sit-at-home action, adding required to stay a minimum While the latest update from 935,570,757 litres is sufficient of Road Transport Owners of the pandemic, stay at that there is no need to buy of 28 days at the locations DPR showed that Nigeria has for 24 days” the regulatory (NARTO) to petrol tankers home, may try to conserve more fuel than required. per rotation. only a supply that would last agency said. drivers to vacate the depots, fuel; there is no need to do Kyari, who, however, It said sections 4.3 and 4.4 of for 24 days from all its 54 The depots are spread Kyari said the corporation this. Maintain your normal did not say whether the the relevant guidelines would depots, NNPC through its across Lagos, Eket/Calabar, would continue to engage life, we have secured all corporation has reached an continue to apply Group Managing Director, Kaduna, Warri, Umuahia and them. assurances that trucks will agreement with NARTO, “Representation by Malam Mele Kyari, said the Port Harcourt, with Lagos NARTO had asked its be moving freely across the added: “Trucks will move, government agencies at stock would last over 60 days. having the largest share of employees (tanker drivers) country throughout this fuel stations will sell and offshore/remote locations DPR put the cumulative the facilities. to stop loading petroleum period of difficulty and products will be available. shall be limited to a maximum combined depot stock of However, Kyari urged products at the depots from supply will be sustained. We will meet your petroleum of one person per rotation. petrol from the Petroleum Nigerians not to engage in last Friday to save them from “Our stock and supply products needs during this You are to ensure strict Products Marketing Company panic buying of the product exposure to the pandemic. plans are robust and there period and at all times.” BUHARI LOCKS DOWN LAGOS, OGUN, ABUJA AS COVID-19 CASES RISE TO 111 medical advice, he would exemptions to personnel and the high traffic between electronic media staff who the restriction with a sense and Spain. transfer to Lagos for additional working in hospitals and the two states. can prove they are unable of patriotism and endure "However, we must all tests and observation. all related healthcare "All citizens in these areas to work from home are also attendant inconveniences in see this as our national and To curb the spread of the organisations, Lagos seaports, are to stay in their homes. exempted. government's decisive bid to patriotic duty to control and virus to their states, Ekiti, food processing, distribution Travel to or from other states "All seaports in Lagos fight what he described as contain the spread of this virus. Benue, Ogun, Yobe, Anambra and retail companies from the should be postponed. All shall remain operational in "our common enemy." I will, therefore, ask all of us and Abia also joined others restrictions. businesses and offices within accordance with the guidelines Recalling that some other affected by this order to put to shut their borders. Also exempted, are these locations should be fully I issued earlier. Vehicles and countries had taken far more aside our personal comfort to Niger State Governor, petroleum distribution closed during this period. drivers conveying essential painful decisions, the president safeguard ourselves and fellow Alhaji Sani Bello; President and retail outlets, power "The governors of Lagos and cargoes from these ports to who implored citizens to see human beings. This common of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko generation, transmission Ogun States as well as the other parts of the country the attendant hardship as their enemy can only be controlled Dangote; and the former Emir and distribution companies Minister of the FCT have been will be screened thoroughly contributions to the fight if we all come together and of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu as well as private security notified. Furthermore, heads before departure by the Ports against COVID-19 pledged the obey scientific and medical Sanusi, have also tested organisations. of security and intelligence Health Authority. government's preparedness to advice,” he said. negative for COVID-19. Others sectors and items agencies have also been "Furthermore, all vehicles send relief package to some The president explained The president in the exempted from the order as briefed. conveying food and other communities in Lagos and that he had given a directive national broadcast, in which listed by the president are the "We will use this essential humanitarian items Abuja to cushion the effects to development financial he outlined other measures media, telecommunications containment period to identify, into these locations from other of the decisions on residents. institutions for what he to cushion the effects of the companies and vehicles trace and isolate all individuals parts of the country will also He also said even though described as on-lending virus on the people, said conveying food and essential that have come into contact be screened thoroughly before schools would remain closed facilities through the use of following the directive, all humanitarian items to the with confirmed cases. We they are allowed to enter these during the period, the Ministry capital from international residents of the two states and three areas from other parts will ensure the treatment restricted areas. of Humanitarian Affairs, and multilateral development FCT must stay at home while of the country. of confirmed cases while "Accordingly, the Hon. Disaster Management and partners to engage the movements to and from the However, he said such restricting further spread to Minister of Health is hereby Social Development had development partners and areas are disallowed. vehicles would be subjected other states. directed to redeploy all Port been directed to work with negotiate concessions to ease During the 14-day curfew, to thorough screening before "This order does not apply Health Authority employees governments of the affected the pains of borrowers. businesses would be shut, they can gain entry. to hospitals and all related previously stationed in the states on how to develop a He also directed the including private and He added that the Minister medical establishments as well Lagos and Abuja airports strategy for the sustenance of immediate payment of the commercial flight operations. of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire, as organisations in healthcare- to key roads that serve as the school feeding programme. conditional cash transfers to The president said had been directed to redeploy related manufacturing and entry and exit points to these The president directed the the vulnerable in the society authorities of the affected all port health authority distribution. restricted zones. Movements immediate implementation of for the next two months, areas and security agencies workers who have been in "Furthermore, commercial of all passenger aircraft, both a three-month repayment imploring Nigerians to support had been put on alert to ensure Lagos and Abuja airports to establishments such as food commercial and private jets, moratorium for all TraderMoni, the weak and the vulnerable compliance. major entry and exit points processing, distribution and are hereby suspended. Special MarketMoni and FarmerMoni around them. According to him, the to the restricted areas. retail companies, petroleum permits will be issued on a loans. Buhari also pledged to essence of the lockdown is Buhari said: "Based on the distribution and retail entities, needs basis." He also extended the guarantee provisions of food to trace and isolate all contacts advice of the Federal Ministry power generation, transmission Buhari acknowledged the moratorium to all federal items to internally displaced with those who had tested of Health and the NCDC, I and distribution companies; level of hardship that the government-funded loans persons for two months, positive for the virus. am directing the cessation of and private security companies decisions would cause citizens, issued by development banks. adding that further decisions He explained that the all movements in Lagos and are also exempted. but described the situation as "We are fully aware that would be taken depending treatment of all confirmed the FCT for an initial period of "Although these a matter of life and death. such measures will cause much on unfolding events. cases would be done while 14 days with effect from 11.00 establishments are exempted, Citing the huge tragedies hardship and inconvenience The president said he had deliberate efforts would p.m. on Monday, 30th March access will be restricted that accompanied the outbreak to many citizens. But this is directed the conversion of be made to contain the 2020. This restriction will also and monitored. Workers in of the disease in Italy, France a matter of life and death if some public institutions as continuous spread of the virus. apply to Ogun State due to telecommunication companies, and Spain, the president we look at the dreadful daily However, Buhari granted its close proximity to Lagos broadcasters, print and appealed to citizens to embrace toll of deaths in Italy, France Continued on page 12 ARISE TV PANELISTS LAUD NIGERIA’S HANDLING OF PANDEMIC were the Minister of Health, than the US because we had symptoms of COVID-19. They the spread of the disease, the He said: “We know Nigeria figures we are seeing from Dr. Osagie Ehanire; an thousands of cases before we are either asymptomatic or Nigerian government needs to presently has low cases, but I Europe and the US, but I have entrepreneur and contractor had a lockdown. If we did are having mild symptoms. put strategies in place to make am afraid this may be because studied the timelines. People to Obama’s White House, Mr. this on time, things would It is only a matter of time the lockdown effective. This we are not testing people get very sick from the third Alex Lightman; Commissioner not have been this bad in before we start having serious is going to have an economic enough.” week. That is the week we are for Health, Lagos State, Prof. the US. cases, so we are preparing. We impact on the people. Those The Co-founder, the Premier now in Nigeria, fortunately, Akin Abayomi; Emeritus “The lockdown in Nigeria are putting all the necessary who are self-employed will Specialist Medical Centre, we are doing very well.” Professor, Chinese University, is a game-changer. If people health equipment in place to struggle to survive. The Dr. Abiodun Aluko, said Hong Kong, Siam Griffiths; adhere to social distancing address this. government needs to put government should include and Chairman, ANAP and stay at home, the virus “We expect to see a few in place adequate support in its preparations, how to Foundation, Mr. Atedo will not spread. This virus is thousands of cases in a couple for the vulnerable groups, protect health workers who Peterside. a game of function, and one of months. You can see we and then ensure there is free are on the frontline interacting Lightman described the of the best ways against it is are preparing isolation centres, healthcare, among others.” with persons infected by country’s management of the to halt community spread,” we are training our health She also warned that COVID-19. pandemic as more organised he added. workers and volunteers, Nigeria must do its best to She said: “There is a sense TOP GAINERS NGN NGN % than that of the United States. Abayomi said the pandemic and we are putting our protect healthcare workers. of urgency right now. Every GSK 0.35 3.85 10 Speaking during the global in Lagos was expected to healthcare in order so as to “They should get personal minute someone is coming NEM 0.17 1.89 9.8 briefing on COVID-19,surge in the coming months absorb the expected surge. protective equipment so they in contact with persons they STERLBANK 0.10 1.18 9.2 tagged: The Pandemic; the following community spread If we eventually move past don’t become the infected shouldn’t be coming in contact Frontlines, the Impact and of the virus. this stage, we will commence too,” she added. with. Our health workers are MORISON 0.05 0.60 9.0 the Road Ahead, Lightman He said although the a different strategy.” Ehanire said so far the seeing people who ordinarily UNITEDCAP 0.20 2.40 9.0 said it took the US President predominant cases were Abayomi clarified that ministry had tested over should be COVID-19 patients TOP LOSERS NGN % Donald Trump thousands of imported, the state had started Buhari’s Chief of Staff, Mallam 1,000 persons for COVID-19, because these people walk confirmed cases before issuing seeing community spread of Abba Kyari, who tested adding that going forward it up to the hospital to seek AFRIPRUD 0.38 3.42 10 a lockdown but that with less the disease, describing this positive for COVID-19 last was increasing the number treatment. But when we check C & I LEASING 0.65 6.20 9.4 than 100 cases, the Nigerian as the real problem. week, was not being managed of cases tested. their travel history, we find ROYALEXCHANGE 0.02 0.20 9.0 government had done what He said: “We know person- in Lagos but in Abuja. He said: “We are very out they may be exposed to NIGBREW 1.30 25.50 4.8 was needed in halting the to-person transmission is what Griffiths, who was one responsive. We want to be as COVID-19, so health workers spread of the pandemic in we will now battle. That is of the experts on the show, fast as possible in interrupting need to be protected.” OANDO 0.10 2.05 4.6 any country. why we have now changed said Nigeria had a lot to the spread of the virus so that An Internal Medicine HPE Nestle Nig Plc ₦765.00 He said: “I watched our strategy, which includes learn from Wuhan City on the pool of infected people Practitioner, Dr. Yemi Johnson, Volume: 251.411 million shares President Muhammadu ensuring people stay at home, how they tackled the spread does not increase beyond said although COVID-19 is Buhari’s broadcast and I think maintain social distancing and through social distancing and control.” a respiratory disease, studies Value: N3.358 billion the two-week lockdown he imbibe hygiene practices like lockdown. Peterside, said although had shown it could also affect Deals: 3,968 declared in Abuja, Lagos and hand washing. She said: “While it is good the federal government the heart. As at Friday 27/03/2020 Ogun State is a very smart “So far, none of our patients to ask people to stay at home had locked all borders, the He said: “So far, Nigeria move. Nigeria is smarter has come down with serious as part of measures to halt measure came a little late. has not recorded the high See details on Page 37 MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 • THISDAY 11 12 MONDAY, ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͸˾THISDAY NEWS Police Alert Nigerians on Emerging Crime Trends Inspector-General of Police Adamu, in a statement via bank transfer. members of the public to be unknown persons who claim the globe particularly to carry (IG), Mr. Mohammed Adamu, yesterday in Abuja by the “The IG therefore enjoins wary of scammers who use to be health authorities. Often out intense monitoring of the has enjoined members of the Force Public Relations Officer, the public to strictly adhere names of prominent companies times criminals access sensitive internet highway in the most public to be alert and take DCP Frank Mba, disclosed that to the following security tips: to create fraudulent websites, information,steal personal legitimate and ethical manner. precautionary actions against intelligence obtained from the Avoid opening suspicious e-commerce platforms, social information and steal funds This is to engender concerted criminal elements who might INTERPOL headquarters shows emails and clicking on links media accounts and emails of victims by tricking them efforts in cracking down on explore the emergency situation that scammers in Nigeria and in unrecognised emails and claiming to sell and deliver into connecting to a specific any individual or all forms of created by the COVID-19 other parts of the globe have attachments; ensure proper medical products. webpage and logging-in with organised criminal gangs that pandemic to increase and begun to create and set up back-up of online and offline “You are advised to ignore their credentials. may want to take advantage diversify their criminal activities. fraudulent websites, e-commerce files regularly and securely; use and report calls purportedly “Against the foregoing, the IG of the COVID-19pandemic to The police chief's advice platforms, fake social media strong passwords for securing emanating from a caller who has placed the Commissioner of perpetrate crimes. was informed by intelligence accounts and emails claiming your emails and social media pretends to be a relative currently Police in charge of the Interpol “The Force also enjoins at the disposal of the Force to sell and deliver COVID-19 handles; keep your software being treated at hospital asking National Central Bureau (NCB), commercial bank operators to which suggested that fraud and medical products. updated, including antivirus you to pay for the cost of the Abuja – Nigeria on red alert. strengthen their online banking cybercrime are expected to rise at “In some cases, they use the software; manage your social medical treatment by transferring The NCB which houses the security systems and report this time owing to the lockdown names of prominent companies media settings and review your money or by paying cash to fake cybercrime unit of the Force promptly any suspected case emplaced by government at all involved in the production and privacy and security settings,”the public health representatives; shall in the coming days and of fraud and other cybercrime levels to contain the COVID-19 distribution of these items. statement said. “Do not open letters or emails beyond work closely with other related activities in their banks," pandemic. Victims are then asked to pay The police boss also advised related to the pandemic from Interpol member states across the statement added. RESIDENTS GROAN AS LOCKDOWN BY STATES TAKES TOLL to either provide foodstuffs into the state, there were long Life in Edo State has also been operating on skeletal operations Part, Karshi, Karu and Apo Fish ACCI Director-General, Ms. and essential commodities to queues of vehicles and humans, a tough one especially for those as the boundary closure affected Market respectively. Victoria Akai, told THISDAY in all residents or come out with pleading with security agents in urban areas. the economic activities of the There is fear, however, that the a telephone interview yesterday strategies to allow people to for access into the state. THISDAY gathered that prices state. closure of the market would lead that measures being deployed address their survival needs. A humanitarian crisis is of food items have skyrocketed The closure of all markets in to food scarcity and drive the in containing the spread of the They noted that many people, underway at Mbiama, the border as a plastic bucket of garri the Federal Capital Territory cost of foods beyond the reach disease were affecting production especially, petty traders, artisans, town between Rivers and Bayelsa which sold for N700 before (FCT) has also inflicted economic of many. and the flow of supplies, services among others, live on their daily states, where many stranded the restriction order is now sold hardship on traders whose In Lagos State, people have and people within Abuja and earnings, adding that with the passengers are gathered. between N1,500 and N2,000. sources of livelihood depends also experienced hardships due the FCT. curfew, they are worst hit. As the stay-at-home order The inability of the people to on the operation of the markets to the restriction of activities in She stated: "The economic Also, since Ebonyi State announced by Kwara State access money from banks due to and neigbourhood centres. the state. contagion is now spreading Government started the Government over the COVID-19 long queues has also worsened The closure has also presented as fast as the virus itself. The enforcement of its border closure, yesterday entered its third day, the people’s woes. an opportunity for the FCTA to Economic Contagion necessary measures that are being commuters, and passengers the residents of the state have Artisans who depend on their fumigate them while the markets of COVID-19 used to control the spread of the entering the state have been complained of hardship over daily incomes to survive and feed were under locks. virus are severing production stranded, forcing most of them to the order. their families are said to be the All the markets that are Spreading Fast, Says and flow of supplies, services meander in the bush for escape. But the state technical worst hit by the restriction order. under the control of the Abuja Abuja Chamber and people within Abuja and At the popular Nkalagu committee on COVID-19 at Residents of Kano were also Municipal Area Council (AMAC) the FCT. boundary, over 10,000 persons the weekend promised that the not spared as they scrambled were also closed indefinitely Meanwhile, the Abuja Chamber "This is stalling economic were stranded as they were not state government was planning for means of survival two days to prevent the spread of the of Commerce and Industry activities and is in the quick allowed into the state. palliative measures for the poor after the closure of the state pathogen. (ACCI) has raised the alarm process of delivering the This development created a in order to cushion the effects boundaries. The Chairman of AMAC, Hon. that the economic contagion impending recession. The herculean task for the taskforce of the stay-at-home order. The residents of the state had Abdullahi Adamu Candido, of COVID-19 is spreading as pressing question is: What is team led by the state Deputy Some of the residents who on Thursday and Friday went on who gave the directive, said fast as the virus itself. the way out for businesses and Governor, Mr. Kelechi Igwe. spoke with THISDAY in Ilorin panic buying of foodstuffs and the closure was to allow for It urged the government customers in accessing essential Also as security agencies yesterday on the stay-at-home other household needs to avoid markets' fumigation. to quickly evolve fiscal and goods and services?" enforce the closure of the borders order said: "It is high time being caught up in the restriction The markets to be fumigated monetary palliatives and The way out, according to of Rivers State, thousands of the government fulfilled the of interstate movements. are Utako, Federal Housing incentives to cushion the shock her, is to leverage on the digital commuters and vehicles seeking promise of providing them with THISDAY gathered that traders Authority Lugbe, Relocation on businesses. economy and develop some to enter the state are stranded palliative measures in order to at Kwari International Textile Market Lugbe, Gwagwa, Nyanya, Reacting to the measures and service windows such as logistics at the borders. avoid untimely death of many Market, Sabon Gari Market Aco Mini, Jabi Park, Gwarinpa, the impact of the pandemic on delivery services that had been At the major entry points people in the state." and Kasuwar Rimi, have been Kugbo Furniture, Kugbo Spare trade and commerce in Abuja, underutilised prior to this time. BUHARI LOCKS DOWN LAGOS, OGUN, ABUJA AS COVID-19 CASES RISE TO 111 isolated centres, restating that all Nigerians to support the work pledging that his office would for the duration of the 14 days, closure of the state borders from Emir of Kano, Muhammadu all necessary resources would be the Federal Ministry of Health continue to serve the president as the case may be, and may midnight of tomorrow to guard Sanusi, have all tested negative deployed to combat the scourge and NCDC are doing, led by the patriotically. be subjected to screening for against the spread of COVID-19 for COVID-19. of COVID-19. Presidential Task Force," he said. He advised Nigerians to be COVID-19 and be quarantined to the state. A statement by Bello’s Chief "My fellow Nigerians, as a Buhari added that the federal calm, measured and diligent in or isolated if necessary,” he said He attributed the border closure Press Secretary, Ms. Mary Berje, government, we will avail all government was deploying all their hygiene, especially with in a broadcast. to the spike in the spread of the confirmed the status of the necessary resources to support the power and resources within its cleaning of hands, if possible stay Fayemi also prohibited all virus in Nigeria and noted that “in governor and his decision to response and recovery. We remain reach to protect citizens and win at home or keep their distance, commuter transport services spite of the state's zero COVID-19 remain in isolation "to play safe." committed to doing whatever it the battle against the scourge, assuring them that the president including bus services, taxi status, the state government had Dangote has also disclosed that takes to confront COVID-19 in noting that till date, the disease would do whatever it would take services, motorbikes (Okada) and taken adequate measures by he tested negative for the virus. our country," he said. has no cure. to protect their health and safety. tricycle services (Keke); except establishing isolation centres In a tweet yesterday, Dangote Buhari thanked members of those for purposes of rendering with equipment and constituting said: “As a global citizen and the private sector, individuals I feel Well, Says Kyari COVID-19 Cases Jump essential services, obtaining a committee on COVID-19 under business leader, I took the and development partners who to 111 essential goods, seeking medical the chairmanship of the state COVID-19 test and the result donated to the fight against Meanwhile, Chief of Staff to attention, funeral services and to Deputy Governor, Hon. Idi came back negative. the scourge, saying he had the President, Kyari, yesterday Nigeria has recorded 14 new cases receive payment of social grants Barde Gubana.” “Coalition Against COVID-19 also assigned the Presidential gave an update on his health of COVID-19, bringing the total or food. Movements of vehicles into is an initiative that I am leading Task Force to coordinate such status, saying although he felt number of confirmed cases in According to him, the and out of Abia State also ceased with other private sectors' donations. well, he might proceed to Lagos the country to 111. restrictions would last 14 days yesterday as the state government leaders and our common He promised the effective role from Abuja yesterday for further The NCDC yesterday said nine effective from today. shut all entry and exit points as goal is to support ongoing of government agencies in the tests and observation. of the cases were confirmed in Ogun State Government has it rolled out measures to keep government initiatives with efforts to contain the scourge, Kyari had tested positive for Lagos while five were from the also announced the closure of its COVID-19 out of the state. our resources in the fight reiterating the necessity for COVID-19 last weekend, forcing FCT. borders with both the Republic The boundary closure, against COVID-19. every citizen to support both him to move into isolation as NCDC said: "Of the 111 cases, of Benin and neighbouring states, which became effective at 4.00 “We are in this together and I the government and the most required by the NCDC protocol 107 are currently being managed; including Lagos, Ondo, Osun and a.m. yesterday, was ordered am optimistic we will overcome.” vulnerable in the society. for the containment of the three have been discharged, while Oyo, to curtail the spread of the by Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, Also, Sanusi and his wives Earlier, Buhari had chronicled pandemic. one has died." disease. following the recommendations have tested negative for the how the federal government “I am writing to let you So far, Lagos has recorded 68 A statement by the governor’s of the state inter-ministerial virus, according to a statement began to fight the virus since know that on medical advice, cases, FCT 21, Oyo seven, Ogun Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Kunle committee on COVID-19. issued yesterday by the son of the inception of its outbreak in I will transfer to Lagos later three, Enugu, Edo, Bauchi and Somorin, said the closure took Abia State shares boundaries the deposed Emir of Kano, Mr. China late last year. today for additional tests and Osun two cases each, while effect from the midnight of with seven other states - Imo, Adam Sanusi. He said since the index case observation,” he said in a Rivers, Benue, Kaduna and yesterday and that it would Ebonyi, Enugu, Anambra, Rivers, “We have been inundated was recorded on February 27, the statement yesterday, explaining: Ekiti have recorded one case last for two weeks in the first Akwa Ibom and Cross River. with calls asking about the country had been under-studying “This is a precautionary measure: each respectively. instance. The state Commissioner for health and safety of my father other nations that had been I feel well, but last week, I Benue State has also imposed a Information, Chief John Kalu, said (Sanusi) especially given the fighting the virus earlier than tested positive for coronavirus, Ekiti, Benue, Ogun, Yobe, dusk-to-dawn curfew with effect the COVID-19 committee deemed number of visitors he received on Nigeria. the pandemic that is sweeping from today. But those on essential it necessary to recommend the arrival in Lagos, and a number of As part of efforts to curb the world. I have followed all Abia, Anambra close services are exempted. closing of boundaries "based contacts he had who have either the virus, he said the NCDC the protocols government has borders Governor Samuel Ortom, on situational reviews of the tested positive for COVID-19 or Director-General, Dr. Kema announced to self-isolate and during a live broadcast, yesterday pandemic.” were in contact with persons Ihekweazu, was one of the 10 quarantine.” Meanwhile, Ekiti, Benue, Ogun, said all borders linking the state Anambra State Government has who tested positive. disease managers invited to China The president’s chief of staff Yobe, Anambra and Abia states with other states would be closed also announced the closure of the “As for my father, on March to understudy the control of the said he had made his own care have closed their borders with on Wednesday. Niger Bridge in Onitsha against 25, he and all our mothers disease. arrangements to avoid further the neighbouring states. He noted that commercial vehicles coming into the state. submitted samples for the He praised the NCDC Director- burdening the public health Governor Kayode Fayemi of vehicles coming in and those The Secretary to the State COVID-19 test. These samples General for his commitment to the system, which had faced so Ekiti State yesterday closed all going out of the state as well Government (SSG), Prof. Solo were taken at home under the battle against COVID-19, noting many pressures. borders of the state but exempted as those moving from one Chukwulobelu, stated this in supervision of Dr. Alero Roberts, that he has been deploying the “Like many others that also test those transporting fuel, food and local government to another a statement made available to the second Vice Chairman of experience he gained in China positive, I have not experienced drugs and other essential goods must produce manifest of their journalists yesterday. the Association of Public Health to fight the disease. high fever or other symptoms from the restrictions. passengers for proper tracking of Professionals. "Since his return, the NCDC associated with this new virus “All non-residents who arrived contacts in case of any eventuality. Bello, Dangote, Sanusi “On March 27, Dr. Roberts has been implementing numerous and have been working from the state prior to, or after, the Yobe State Governor, Mallam Test Negative conveyed the results and all of strategies and programmes home. I hope to be back at my imposition of this restriction, Mai Mala Buni, in a statement them were negative. We hope in Nigeria to ensure that the desk very soon,” Kyari said. and who remain in the state, issued yesterday by his Niger State Governor, Alhaji Sani this information will allay the adverse impact of this virus on He praised his immediate must remain in their place of spokesman, Mallam Mamman Bello; President of Dangote Group, concerns of all those who are our country is minimised. We ask staff for their dedication to duty, temporary residence in the state Mohammed, also directed the Alhaji Aliko Dangote; and former asking,” the statement said. MONDAYMARCH 30, 2020 ˾THISDAY 13

NEWS FG Evacuates Stranded NCDC Staff from Congo Brazzaville Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja issued yesterday, said the NCDC Brazzaville to contain the spread of support is at the instance as regards the management campaigns, while the public staff members were drafted to of coronavirus. Iliya stressed that of the prompt action taken of coronavirus and for their has also been mobilised The federal government has Brazzaville to undergo a special the medical team were on a by the presidency and the prompt deployment. for strict observation and evacuated stranded staff of capacity building course with training programme to expand Ministry of Foreign Affairs “This act has in no small compliance to all clinical the Nigeria Centre for Disease the World Health Organisation their frontiers of knowledge in deploying a special flight measure further strengthened advisory and lock down Control (NCDC) from Republic (WHO). as regards the management of of the Nigerian Air Force to the bilateral harmony that directives.” of Congo. She stressed that the medical coronavirus popularly known convey back to the country a exists between the two The ambassador, therefore, The Nigeria Ambassador to team had been stranded as for their prompt deployment team of public health officials countries. Furthermore, the commended the government the Republic of the Congo, Mrs. following the closure of air to the country. of the NCDC, who had been President of the Republic of and the people of Congo Deborah Iliya, in a statement and land borders by Congo She said: “This message drafted to Brazzaville, the Congo, Denis Sassou Nguesso, for the act of solidarity and Republic of Congo, to undergo has put in stringent measures standing on good relations by a special capacity building aimed at ending the spread the temporal opening of its course with WHO, a training of the virus as it has actively airport to facilitate the departure Buhari’s Address Empty, Failed to to expand their knowledge embarked on sensitisation of the team on March 26. Address Real Concerns, Says PDP Chuks Okocha in Abuja no new solutions to offer market. NIMASA Bans International Vessels the nation. “Our party notes as The Peoples Democratic The PDP said it regretted saddening that even in Without Thermal Screening Facilities Party (PDP) in its reaction that the address did not areas where Mr. President to President Muhammadu touch on the real necessities announced an ambitious Eromosele Abiodun Organisation (ILO), as well as such as crew/personnel changes, Buhari’s long-awaited address of majority of Nigerians who intervention, such remained the Nigeria Centre for Disease visits from onshore and other on the COVID-19 pandemic, reside in the states where largely cosmetic as there are To mitigate the spread of Control (NCDC). locations for provision of supplies, said the address was empty President Buhari had ordered no clear palliative content but COVID-19 through shipping According to him, the outbreak maintenance and repairs,” Jamoh and failed to address the salient a lockdown. moratoriums on loans with no activities, the Director General of COVID-19 has necessitated stated. demands of the impact of the According to the PDP, “It is clear data for implementation. of the Nigerian Maritime stringent measures that can help He also disclosed that the scourge on the nation. unfortunate that Mr. President “Mr. President is reminded Administration and Safety Agency curb its spread while not totally agency would be coming up The party in a statement by failed to respond to demands that already, the COVID-19 (NIMASA), Mr. Bashir Jamoh, grounding the Nigerian economy. with the publication that would the National Publicity Secretary, on hope for medications, direct had affected the performance has banned all vessels without “These are trying times and elaborate on the guidance which Mr. Kola Ologbondiyan social palliatives, cut in taxes as of those loans. Granting them thermal screening facilities from we must pull through together also includes schedule for ongoing noted that outside the social well as reduction in the pump moratoriums is therefore of operating in Nigerian waters. that is why we have directed offshore operations requiring distancing and isolation, which price of fuel even with the cut no consequence to the capital Jamoh stated that the purpose that all maritime stakeholders new crew or crew changes from Nigerians had already imposed in the price of petroleum and and interest on them,” PDP is to help shipping companies develop risk assessments and affected countries to ensure that on themselves, Buhari had crude oil in the international stated. and all maritime stakeholders safety intervention guidelines for pre-departure tests for COVID 19 to follow advice provided by their personnel and operations are conducted on such persons, United Nations agencies including on the areas of vulnerabilities of and self-isolation procedures the World Health Organisation their maritime operations that for the prescribed period are Buhari Lacks Power to Restrict Movement (WHO), the International can be affected by the COVID-19 instituted for such new crew/ Maritime Organisation (IMO) pandemic including but not personnel before exposure to in Lagos, Abuja, Says SAN and the International Labour limited to offshore operations other personnel. A human rights lawyer and President has not invoked his can make any declaration Senior Advocate of Nigeria powers under the constitution to concerning the people of that (SAN), Mr. Ebun-Olu declare any state of emergency, state. Little wonder that the Adegboruwa has declared which must be approved by President could not cite any that President Muhammadu the National Assembly. law that he relied upon for his Buhari lacks the power to restrict “We are running a declaration.” movement without recourse to constitutional democracy and Adegboruwa, who stated that the National Assembly. it is illegal for the President to he supports measures put in Reacting to the President’s take over the affairs of any state place to curb the virus, said the broadcast yesterday, the of the federation without the law must be respected. senior lawyer insisted that express consent of the people of He, therefore, called on the the President has no powers that state through their elected President to do the right thing. to restrict the movement of representatives. The senior advocate also persons without recourse to “It is only the governor of called on Buhari to put measures the National Assembly. the state through the House in place to assuage the financial According to him, the of Assembly of the state that consequences of the restriction. UI College of Medicine Provost, Deputy Test Positive to COVID-19 The Provost and Deputy in a telephone interview with he said. Provost of the University of the News Agency of Nigeria Earlier, the Chief Medical Ibadan’s College of Medicine, (NAN). Director of UCH, Ibadan, Prof. Professors Oluwabunmi “I wish to inform you Jesse Otegbayo, also tested Olapade-Olaopa and Obafunke that the Deputy Provost positive for coronavirus. Denloye respectively have and I tested positive for the He said, “On Monday 23rd tested positive for coronavirus. COVID-19 following tests of March, we commenced NAN reported that Prof. done on Friday. a 12-man quarterly board Olapade-Olaopa made this “Although we are both meeting which was meant to known in a statement released asymptomatic, we have gone last 5 days in the hospital, we yesterday. The Public Relations into self-isolation for 14 days observed social distancing and Officer of University College whilst our contacts are being other precautionary measures Hospital, Ibadan, Mr. Toye observed closely to determine for COVID-19 as much as Akinrinlola, confirmed this if they should also be tested,” possible. Stallion to Provide Rice, Fish to COVID-19 Patients Bennett Oghifo for the five Government run affected states and support COVID-19 hospitals in Lagos. their health care systems. At Stallion Empowerment Initiative, “The Group will also provide Stallion Group our top priority the philanthropic arm of Stallion drivers and fuel for these buses. is the health and safety of our Group, has pledged its support This arrangement will help employees, customers and our to the local governments of ensure safer and comfortable community. There is nothing all states across Nigeria by transportation of our health greater than the safety of the committing to provide locally care workers who are in the people of this country and it is produced rice and fish to all frontline in this fight against our responsibility to support the public hospitals dedicated to the virus,” the statement said. government and the community Covid-19 for next three months. Chairman Stallion Group, in this time of need. We are A statement by the company Mr. Sunil Vaswani stated that deeply grateful to every health yesterday said the Chief “These are exceptionally difficult care worker and person who Executive Officer of Stallion times and urgent emergency has risked their life to fight this Group, Anant Badjaty has further resources have to be deployed pandemic and will continue to committed one staff bus to each to cope with the needs of support them.” 14 THISDAY ˾˜ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA COMMENT Email [email protected] FROM CORONAVIRUS TO ‘CORO-FEAR-VIRUS’ Nigerians can reduce the impact of the viral disease by washing hands with soap and staying at home, writes Oludayo Tade

rom WUHAN in China to other parts of the globe, the novel classes imported it and through economic, social and other forms of Corona virus (COVID-19) ravaging the world has shown relations, the lower class is reached with the infection. But Coronavirus that human behaviour in a corner of the world can affect is daring and did not spare Aso Villa despite heavy security — the and be dangerous to the survival of others elsewhere. The influential Chief of Staff, Abba Kyari and some of his aides are infected. transnational dimension of the problem has revealed that Consequently, corofearvirus has caught governors and ministers and improperly managed personal problem can become large scale their aides who had contacts with the confirmed cases. The corofear- Fglobal social problem. The trans-territorial backlashes of the WUHAN virus is more terrifying with the news that some governors and some disaster on the rest of the world, affirmed that human beings are active board members of the prestigious University College Hospital (UCH) agents for virus dispersal. With no clear-cut scientific breakthrough yet tested positive for Coronavirus. on the vaccine to silence COVID-19, the world is in ‘Coro-fear-virus’ Coronavirus may have originated from China, but China has looked (the fear of contracting coronavirus) panic mode. If the COVID-19 health inward through her investment in Education, Science and Technology crisis could hit America, Britain and Germany among others, with high for solution. Unlike the United States and United Kingdom whose fatality figures, what will be the fate of sub-Saharan Africa will frail investments in Science and Technology is making their scientists work health system? This is the story of Nigeria — big and blessed with tirelessly in laboratories, Nigeria’s underfunding of Education, Science natural resources but unlucky with leadership that has unleashed death and Technology is making it a beggarly nation. Thanks to Jack Ma centers as health institutions on their people. (China’s richest man) foundation who has donated 100,000 face masks, As I write, 97 persons have been confirmed infected and the number 1,000 protective gowns and 20,000 test kits and other system-made is expected to increase. The fear is much and compounded by images billionaires and millionaires who have donated one thing or the other shared via social media platforms. Except for Lagos that has been including Pastor Enoch Adeboye and other corporate organisations who proactive, the complacent national leadership has allowed their poor have played active social responsibility roles. threat analysis intervention skill to afflict the nation before they stopped It is hoped that the donated safeguard kits will not be allocated to international flights into the country. Returnees from endemic countries those who failed to put in place sound health system while the monies were allowed to mingle with the rest of us because government cannot would not be diverted to personal purse. Essential workers in the health provide facility to observe them for two weeks! Even the powerful who sector must get these kits to enable them give their best to the infected returned from endemic countries failed to observe the self-isolation and protect themselves and their significant others from being infected. advisory. Now, the hapless and poverty-stricken populace who have no In the same manner, enforcers of the stay-at-home order must be international passports and who have been living under excruciating properly kitted in order not to become agents for virus dissemination. conditions; eating from hand to mouth would have to suffer for the I have seen a few of them in states going on enforcement duties un- sins of complacency. People of God are not spared. The ‘corofearvirus’ protected. This is suicidal. Public spaces must now be disinfected while has switched prayers from killing household wickedness or looking for trained security personnel must be deployed to strategic locations in prosperity to appealing to the God of Coronavirus to stop his perceived communities in anticipation of surge in community/residential crimes anger over man’s serial overstepping of his bounds. due to limited economic opportunities. While many livelihoods will be It is a total shame that a country whose lawmakers ordered for latest affected, it is expected that both the federal and state governments will Jeep to ‘oversight’ cannot boast for more than six laboratories where put in place palliatives to lessen the impact on the vulnerable that have they can test for COVID-19! In all this, Lagos has become the Federal been advised to stay at home. Politicians who reached the vulnerable Capital while Abuja is now a ‘State’ running to Lagos for help. The good during elections to get votes cannot now claim they lack data to reach news is that UK and US where politicians run to for health care are the vulnerable. With the partial or total lock down, more people will more endemic, their wickedness has come to haunt them — we are all plunge further into hopelessness. When this happens, the strained will trapped in. It is now time for those in power to utilise the ultra-modern innovate and crime may surge. health facilities that they have constructed and equipped. At least, they For the rest of us, avoidance behaviour is critical at this time. Social tell us that they have built world class health infrastructure. distancing, regular washing of hands and avoiding crowded places. We have been begging those in government to have mercy on the rest Worship your God inside your room. Only the living will worship of us who lack the wherewithal to do health tourism. Many Nigerians the Allah and people perish for lacking wisdom. Stay in your house have lost wives, children and relatives to sickness that would have and buy things in your area. Adjust your feeding habit and live been handled if our health institutions had not been converted to death ascetic lifestyle to suit this exigency. We can prevent it by reducing centers. Medical doctors have gone on strikes over paltry sum and poor our movements and contact with the infected. Inform authorities of working conditions; researchers who the nation should look up to at this returnees and keep the rest of us safe. All of us (rich, poor, young, old) moment are not able to help because the state has relegated knowledge are vulnerable and susceptible to coronavirus and that is why we must through conscious underfunding and intentioned institutional decay and take precautionary measures. When this global health insecurity is over, disruptions. We heard promise to stop health tourism — the one who HEALTH IS CRITICAL AND SHOULD BE President Muhammadu Buhari and his government should know that made the promise broke it serially. According to an African adage, if you ATTENDED TO BECAUSE UNLIKE BOKO you are as healthy as your country. Health is critical and should be close your eyes to facts, you will learn through accidents. attended to because unlike Boko Haram fighters who kill soft targets, The good news is that Coronavirus is no respecter of the Presidency! HARAM FIGHTERS WHO KILL SOFT TARGETS, COVID-19 knows no VIP. It has proved to be a class leveller. The influential middle and upper COVID-19 KNOWS NO VIP Dr Tade, a sociologist, sent this piece via [email protected] BEFORE THE FLOODS Ayo Oyoze Baje urges the authorities to heed the warning of the meteorological agency

he recent warning given by the Lagos ing to the Director-General, Prof. Sani Mashi, it was In 2013, the agency had for months warned that tion about the history of environmental disasters State government through Mr. Tunji all due to a shift in rainfall pattern caused by climate Nigerians should expect more rains, with increase in affected areas? Are they working in concert to Bello, the Commissioner for Environ- change. That was then. But this is now, the ‘twin in frequency and intensity. That also means that articulate comprehensive solutions to the problems ment and Water Resources about the year’, 2020 when things happen suddenly! more damage to infrastructure (residential and at hand? Or, are they dissipating their energy in impending rains expected to span over According to Bello, the wise step to take is for office buildings, roads, wire cables) and of course, different directions? And are they well funded to 200 days must be taken seriously. Even every resident in Lagos to take proactive measures. people should be expected. Such early warning is discharge their onerous duties to the communities Tas the government contends with how to contain the On its part, government has identified vulnerable commendable. Ordinarily, these should spur political and the country? The answers to these troubling Coronavirus pandemic, no effort should be spared to parts of Lagos, which are below sea level to include leaders at both the state and federal government to questions will go a long way towards charting a reduce the attendant flashing floods in earnest. The Isheri, Owode Onirin, Ikoyi and Victoria Island. begin to put in place measures and mechanisms to master plan that could be relied upon in the event of time to start taking pro-active measures is now. Not Places such as Ogudu and Ikeja are the highest but stave off the projected effects. future occurrences. when the dams have overflowed their capacity and they are still susceptible to the rains. Here, communication through the mass media From the global perspective, there were Early the rivers have swelled their banks, swallowing up That explains why the government is in touch is an imperative towards finding such long-lasting Warning Conferences in 1998, 2003 and 2006 to the pot hole-riddled roads, homes, offices and shops. with both Osun River Basin Authority and that of solutions. Are the residents of the state fully aware analyze and examine methods that were working Not when casualty figures have risen to thousands Ogun state. Six rivers enter Lagos State with Osun about actions they should be taking to assist the and those that were not. In fact, the 2005 World before half-hearted, panicky measures are embarked river flowing in through Epe. The appeal is for the government in minimizing the scourge of months Conference on Disaster Reduction, in Kobe and a upon by top government officials. That was my dams not to release its excess water, else the tragedy of heavy rains, and in their own local languages similar one in Bonn, Germany made appreciable candid warning some few years back. Apparently, of 2019 would repeat itself, particularly in Isheri- too? Have they assisted in tree planting, clearing of progress. What came to light was the need not few heeded the advice. It was not surprising Magodo and Owode. the gutters and drainages, proper waste disposal of to focus only on technically accurate warnings as therefore that the sad history repeated itself in 2018 In addition, and as part of the proactive measures all manner of filth in their immediate environment? much as the need to understand the risks and make with serious casualties, especially in Ogun and the state government is working assiduously in Do they know the importance of the days set aside an information link between the producers and Katsina States. At a point the death toll rose to 52, tandem with the local government councils and the for sanitation, or do they convert it to preaching the consumers of the warning signals. The aim is to with 90 houses destroyed, over 260 livestock killed residents to play their parts. No dumping of refuse gospel, as has been prevalent in Lagos metropolis on trigger actions that would mitigate the scourge. and several people declared missing. Property worth inside gutters, no delay in evacuating household Thursdays? Simply put, a people-oriented approach with millions of naira were destroyed, as flood wreaked refuse and no dilly dallying in the payment of According to Muhammed Sanni, the Director focus on the social and psychological aspects of early havoc in 10 communities of Jibia Local Government related charges on environmental sanitation. General of the National Emergency Management warning instead of concentrating on the science area of Katsina State. Earlier, there was the devastat- Also, sustained information dissemination is on as Agency (NEMA), such early warning should afford and technology is most desirable. And it must be ing flood that claimed 12 lives and literally ‘swal- the government talks with the residential associa- the policymakers the ample opportunity to monitor emphasized; according to the Hyogo Framework lowed’ 3,800 houses in Ogun State. Back then the tions. There are handbills distributed all over the situations in their communities so as to enable that early warning on impending environmental Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo promised that the state. The online platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, remedial measures to be initiated. This would also disasters should be treated as a national priority. federal government, along with the two states would WhatsApp, Instagram and YouTube are kept active bolster effective relief through disaster preparedness The veritable platform to realize this goal is look into the cause of the flash flood with a view to in this regard. There is judicious deployment of actions. Again, the crucial questions arise. Are the government’s pragmatic partnerships with the local providing a lasting solution. That did not happen. Ecological Fund. Other states and their governors relevant government organs such as the Ministries of government authority, civil society, scientific and As usual, that year the Nigerian Meteorological have to take a cue from this laudable enforcement Environment and Natural Resources, Agriculture and academic community as well as the private sector; Agency (NiMET) warned that many parts of the of the rules and regulations on environmental Rural Development, Science and Technology as well with the media as the effective vehicle for informa- country were likely to experience flooding. Accord- protection. as Transport equipped with the necessary information dissemination on early warning. THISDAY ˾ FRIDAY, MARCH 30, 2020 15 EDITORIAL TIME FOR REAL DEREGULATION

The government is in a position to fully deregulate the petroleum downstream sector

ollowing reduction in the cost of pump 2016, the country had the chance to make this hard and price of petrol from N145 to N125 per necessary decision but chose to go with what was called litre last week, the Executive Secretary ‘price recovery,’ an alternate name for subsidy that has of the Petroleum Products Pricing and failed woefully. Then, as in now, the federal govern- Regulatory Agency (PPPRA), Abdulka- ment merely fixed the price of a product it has no direct dir Saidu, promised that henceforth, influence over its production. Eventually, Nigerians market prices will prevail in the sector. ended up dealing with an irrational economic decision. Since there is no need telling the deaf that the market is on fire, it is about time. But this is ithin weeks after the decision, private Fstill not how to deregulate the sector. Yet, if Nigeria oil marketers who had invested heavily hesitates to fully deregulate the downstream petro- in the downstream sector were out of leum sector, the troubles will soon be overwhelming. business. They left the task of importa- The signs are already stark! tionW to the NNPC which did this at heavy costs. Jobs As conventional wisdom teaches, subsidising were lost. So were values and the capacity of the consumption instead of production yields tiny or no downstream sector to promote economic growth on returns to the economy. This situation becomes riskier the basis of a free market structure that should breed when you have no control over the costs of produc- competition, improve efficiency and drive down ing the goods. In 2019 alone, the Nigerian National prices. It would take a while for these to be recovered Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) reportedly spent if full deregulation happens. N843.121 billion on fuel subsidy. We cannot afford such Learning from the past, we expect the federal luxury anymore. That amount could have built the government to sit down with stakeholders across board desirable social infrastructure Nigeria desperately needs to discuss the processes and plans for full deregulation. to support economic We also think that during the consultative process, IN 2019 ALONE, THE growth. From the conversations such as plans for the four refineries NIGERIAN NATIONAL epileptic power sector THISDAY owned by the NNPC, but which are decrepit will be PETROLEUM to dilapidated roads, EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI raised with concrete conclusions on their conditions. DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI AJAYI, DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN, CORPORATION SPENT there are broken MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO We expect even deeper conversation on the operational N843.121 BILLION ON FUEL amenities that could DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE framework to be adopted for pipelines, depots and CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI SUBSIDY. WE CANNOT be fixed with monies EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN other key infrastructure which are still in the hands of AFFORD SUCH LUXURY poured into subsidis- MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE the government, as well as the role of the NNPC in the ANYMORE ing petrol and the subsector after deregulation. comparative impact of The labour unions that have for decades opposed such in the economy THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED deregulation and privatisation should also be engaged EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA would be huge. GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, constructively. They should be made to see that the Besides, the country also loses substantial volumes ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI world and its systems have evolved, and it is time they of the imported petrol it subsidises to smugglers who DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS BOLAJI ADEBIYI, PETER IWEGBU, were weaned of their ideological fixations. Clearly, the ANTHONY OGEDENGBE ship off the cheap petrol to neighbouring countries DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI unions should be made to see the havoc that subsidis- where prices are relatively within market rates. Clearly, SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ing consumption of petrol has wrought on Nigerians ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS PATRICK EIMIUHI, SAHEED ADEYEMO subsidy has not worked out well for Nigeria and it is CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI and that in fighting to stop deregulation, they are time to recalibrate. But there are processes the country DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO actually putting their members at real dangers of job should follow which we believe has not been done. In HEAD, COMPUTER DEPARTMENT PATRICIA UBAKA-ADEKOYA losses. 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. ENGAGING THE Y OUNG IN PROMOTING PEACE AREWA Y OUTH COUNCIL AND COVID-19 PANDEMIC he youths have demonstrated beyond every factors that make youths more vulnerable to radicalization, reasonable doubt throughout the world’s history including economic deprivation, lack of vocational training n behalf of the President obeying professional advice from health that they are not only the catalyst for advancing and employment opportunities; government should work of Arewa Youth Council workers across the globe. Staying at home social, political and economic development but on establishing inclusive national strategy to counter violent Comr Dogo Shagari and is safe but questionable to those that cannot also the key agent for bringing positive changes extremism in response to the causes of radicalization the entire youths of Arewa feed themselves for a single day. The most in the society. The United Nations Resolution in every country. Such a strategy needs to incorporate community, we commend vulnerable among us deserve governmental T2250 of December 9, 2018 on “Youth, Peace and Society” different stakeholders including the youth (both male and the efforts of the federal and individuals’ intervention to cope with revealed that young men and women across the world female), activists, community, religious, and cultural leaders; Ogovernment and all the19 Northern State the idea of staying indoor in order to curtail constitute the catalysts for change. The youths of today reform of the education sector should include putting in governors on the measures they are taking the spread of the disease. as recognized by United Nations Organization (U.N.O) is place provisions for student by building and enhancing in fighting the spread of Corona virus Indeed Covid-19 is a global disruption the largest generation of the young people in the world vocational training opportunities, enhancing students’ critical decisively. that can lead to the closure of our state summing up to 2.8 billion of the world’s population. At thinking skills and training teachers to be aware of signals We appreciate the sacrifice of our experts boundaries in the entire Northern states. the global level, the U.N.O has actively engaged youths of radicalization and how to address these signals whilst in health sector and pray for God to reward We call the attention of our governors to in promoting international peace and security as well as maintaining a positive relationship with students; engaging them abundantly. The awareness and act on behalf of its indigenes to make sure sustainable development. The organization took a bold step former extremists in counter –radicalization programs is also campaign against the disaster is in good food items are not hoarded and prices are further by initiating “The Youth 2030 Strategy” to provide a an effective tool, as they have deeper understanding of the condition by both media and independent not inflated for the purpose of reducing platform for knowledge exchange among the youths. challenge individuals face to engage and disengage with individuals. But the materials to be used hardship. The action of our religious leaders Violent extremism has no borders, religion and ethnicity, terrorist groups. Investment in cultural, sporting and other for the prevention of the disease are short. is commendable. But the lockdown of our yet areas of political instability, poverty are the key breeding related activities particularly focused on the interests of youth Government should do more by making the various mosques and churches does not grounds that drive youth into extremist groups. According with a view to providing alternative structure to that which materials such as face masks, hand gloves mean we should cease to pray from our to a research conducted by Mercy Corps in 2015, three key may be offered by violent extremism. and hand sanit respective homes; rather, we should pray factors push youth into violent activities. They are: discrimi- In conclusion, the responsibility before the youths in ad- God created us equal and enrich some of continuously for the benefit of mankind nation, injustice and intolerance. It is however important to dressing the topic: “Engaging the Young People in Promoting us out of His mercy and blessings. The sup- around world. We symphathize with the dig bigger into understanding how these concepts manifest Peace and Countering Extremism” is a message preached port of our business mogul among us can families of infected persons and pray for within different contexts because these drivers differ from by Robert Kennedy. To him, “The world demands a quality play a vital role in fighting the disease for their quick recovery. And also pray for community to community and region to region. of youths; not a time of life but a state of mind, a temper the benefit of humanity. Our petty traders God’s intervention to distance mankind In “Engaging the Young People in promoting Peace and of will, quality of imagination, a predominant courage over have their own quota to contribute based from this disaster worldwide. Countering Extremism”, here are key strategies to address timidity, of appetite for adventure over the love of ease. on their status in our different communities. Comr Bello Shehu Adamu, National the issue before us: Efforts should be made to address Adelakun Tufayl Olamilekan, Lagos It is our task to repel Covid-19 through Secretary, Arewa Youth Council 16 MONDAYMARCH 30, 2020 ˾THISDAY COVID-19 UPDATE... COVID-19 UPDATE... Military Orders Returning Personnel on Foreign Posting to Self-isolate Begins burial plans for 29 fallen soldiers, ofﬁcers Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja insurgents in Gorgi in Borno engagement. They took the military’s burial tradition A war update issued by the operations conducted at State even as it said troops advice and self-isolated. Now, entails according fallen officers Directorate of Defence Media Gidan Usman, Gidan Babagoji, Military authorities weekend killed nine bandits, arrested it is an order. “a benevolent and befitting Operations (DDMO) said the Gadauna, Gidan Janari, ordered returning personnel 14, set ablaze houses of bandits “Our stand is that once you burial” after the next of kins troops released 12 kidnapped Kekuwaje, Gidan Sarki, Gardi on foreign missions, positing and rescued 13 hostages in come back, you will go on self- are contacted, saying “our civilians by the bandits, and Bingi all in Bungudu and training to immediately Zamfara State. isolation. We have complied burial procedure is in our including the District Head of Local Government Area of embark on self-isolation as Speaking with journalists with federal government’s professionalism”. Wuya, who was kidnapped a Zamfara State, troops killed soon as they arrive Nigeria. in Abuja, the Coordinator, directives and we have passed Meanwhile, troops of week earlier while the victims nine bandits and arrested 14 It said the order is in Directorate of Defence Media it to the services”, he said. Operation Hadarin Daji killed have been united with their as well as 13 houses of the compliance with the federal Operations, Major General On burial plans for the nine bandits in Zamfara State families. bandits were cleared and set government’s directive John Enenche, said military fallen soldiers, he said the and rescued 12 hostages. “Also, in other clearance ablaze by troops”, it said. requiring 14 days self-isolation personnel engaged overseas for those on foreign trips. were ordered to self-isolate This is coming as it for 14 days. commenced burial plans “It is one of the directives for 29 soldiers and officers given to the services and killed during an ambush by everybody in overseas Crude Oil Price Slumps to $23 as COVID-19 Pandemic Worsens Ejiofor Alike with agency a standstill and put roughly 3 reports billion people on lockdown to limit the spread of the virus. Crude oil benchmarks slumped Reuters reported that at the open of electronic trading with many eschewing daily yesterday, extending last week’s automotive use, analysts have losses as the global COVID-19 estimated worldwide fuel pandemic worsened and the demand could fall by as much Saudi Arabia-Russia price war as 20 per cent in the coming continued unabated. month. In early trading, Brent futures Despite this, Saudi Arabia and fell 7.1 per cent to $23.15 a barrel, Russia remain at loggerheads. while US crude futures lost 5.6 Russian oil companies have per cent, or $1.17, to $20.34 a said they expect the price war barrel. to continue, while the Saudis ENFORCING COMPLIANCE… The oil markets are enduring have not given any indication Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri (right); and his Deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, during an assessment of compliance a twin shock of demand that there are new talks coming with the state government’s restriction order at the border town of Adagbabiri...yesterday destruction caused by the to curb supply. Still, any move COVID-19 pandemic and Saudi Arabia and the Organisation the Saudi-Russia price war of the Petroleum Exporting that is flooding markets with Countries (OPEC) makes may FCT Arrests Pastor, Closes 15 Churches extra supply. The coronavirus not be enough, Goldman Sachs pandemic has already killed said last week in a note. about 32,000 people and sickened They anticipated a fall of for Violating Restriction Order more than 500,000 worldwide. nearly 19 million bpd in global Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja Jesus Reign Family Church, Team, which waited till the popular Amingo Supermarket The Director of the National oil demand in April. Pastor U U Uden was arrested conclusion of the service before at Wuse 2 district was also Institute of Allergy and Infectious In recent days prices for The enforcement team set up yesterday. he was arrested and taken to closed by the FCT Task Force Diseases, Dr. Anthony Fauci, crude oil traded at key locales by the FCT Administration has The enforcement team, the FCT Police Command at Team. yesterday estimated the United such as Midland, Texas, have arrested a pastor for violating which was on patrol to ensure Garki and handed over to The pharmacy was closed States alone could suffer as many traded at several dollars less than the ban imposed on places compliance, discovered that policemen on duty. following complaints received as 200,000 deaths. US futures, an indication that of worship from conducting the Apo-based church, was The team also dispersed at the FCT COVID-19 situation The virus has brought the companies there are anticipating religious services at the FCT. having full service, when it worshippers at the Christ room that it lacked the short- worldwide aviation industry to a flood of supply. The team also closed 15 arrived the scene. Embassy Church in Jahi gun thermometer, which is a churches for infringing on Pastor Uden was not District of the FCT. required item to ensure the the social distancing order. deterred by the presence The 24- hour H-Medix safety of customers and staff Tinubu: I Did Not Urge FG The General Overseer of of the FCT Ministerial Task Pharmacy, located close to the at the upscale supermarket. to Print New Naira Notes Senators Mull Donation of 50% of their March Salary to FG The National Leader of (iv) food security; (v) lower Deji Elumoye and Udora Orizu Senate leadership is a follow most members accepting the decision to wipe out Coronavirus All Progressives Congress interest rates; (vi) quantitative in Abuja up to weekend’s resolution cut in their salaries. epidemic from our country”. (APC), Senator Bola Tinubu easing by the CBN to prop by the 43 ministers that 50 A ranking Senator who spoke The Green chamber is, has clarified that he did not up the financial markets; (vii) The upper legislative chamber per cent of their March salary on condition of anonymity however, of the school of call for the printing of new exchange rate flexibility; (viii) of the National Assembly is will be donated to the federal confirmed to THISDAY that he thought that asking for half of Naira notes in the message he debt suspension to support considering the possibility of government to support its drive had been approached like other salaries of House members will released through his Tweeter individuals and the private donating half of the Senators’ towards curbing the global virus. Senators about the donation. shortchange their constituents handle. sector; and (ix) direct economic salaries in March 2020 to the Already, the leadership of the According to him, “the from the magnanimity members Tinubu said yesterday that support for the poor. federal government to help in Senate had started reaching out suggestion is a noble one and I wants to show and are already he used the platform to make “The core principle the bid to fight the dreaded to the Senators about the need have given them the go-ahead to showing. known his thoughts should underpinning all of the above Coronavirus pandemic. for them to donate half of this deduct the 50 per cent donation In a telephone chat with it become necessary for the is that the federal government The House of Representatives month’s salary to fight the virus from my March salary. THISDAY yesterday, t House government to act. must adopt a countercyclical is, however, not thinking along in the country. “I can assure you that most if Spokesman, Hon. Benjamin “Thankfully, we have not fiscal policy and should not that line as it believes doing so Sources told THISDAY not all Senators will key into the Kalu, lamented that if only seen the worst of the virus be afraid to spend as much will amount to short changing yesterday that most Senators donation because we all know Nigerians knew their salaries but we must be bold and we naira as is required to protect the members’ constituents. had been contacted individually that nothing will be too small they will not be asking for half must be prepared should the the economy. The latest move by the by the Senate leadership with to support the Executive’s of it. time for action ever arise. “One thing I absolutely did He stated that he not call for was the literal recommended the “main- printing of new naira notes Immigration Boss Tests Positive to Pandemic taining (or expanding) present by the federal government. The Comptroller-General of from the United Kingdom “I urge my loved ones, He added, “It is a very levels of government spending; Such a suggestion is extremely Nigeria Immigration Service on March 22. Immigration Officers and difficult time but we can’t (ii) focusing expenditure on far-fetched and has never been (NIS), Mr. Muhammed He stated, “Today, I tested Nigerians to pray for me and change what God destined for public infrastructure and on my mind. It is unfortunate Babandede, has tested positive positive for COVID-19. I have all those affected.” us. “I urge officers to continue transportation (if the virus that my prescriptions for COVID-19 been on self-isolation since my Babandede urged immigration working with my able Deputy does not hit strongly) and were so badly misunderstood The CG explained yesterday return from UK on Sunday officers to continue working with to further move our Service to health care (if it does); (iii) tax and misreported,” he that he is already on self- 22nd of this month with British his deputy to move the service another level. As advised by reduction and VAT suspension; explained. isolation since he returned Airways in Lagos. forward. NCDC, I am totally isolated.” MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 • THISDAY 17 18 THISDAY ˾MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG Email: [email protected] POLITICS 08114495324 SMS ONLY MONDAY DISCOURSE Challenged to Up His Game Nseobong Okon-Ekong and Vanessa Obioha write that a signiﬁcant part of the legacy of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State may be tied to how he passes the COVID-19 test

Buhari Sanwo-Olu Ehanire Fayemi

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Elumelu Dangote Agbaje Ihekweazu to the fund during a condolence were recorded in the state. Fur- In a partnership with Guaranty The governor also hinted that visit to the governor. ther palliative measures such as Trust Bank (GTB), the state recently a curfew may be put in place if “For us in Zenith, we share in the closures of public parks, gyms opened the newly built 110-bed the indices keep rising while concerns and the very traumatic and beauty salons were issued Onikan Isolation Centre for CO- disclosing that fumigation of the experience that Lagos State is as the governor pleaded with the VID-19 patients. state is already taking place. At passing through,” said the bank’s public to work together with him Sanwo-Olu has also announced that conference, Sanwo-Olu also Group Managing Director, Ebenezer in combating the pandemic that a stimulus package for Lagos signed the Lagos State Infectious Onyeagwu during the visit. has shut down many cities across residents. According to him, over Diseases Regulation 2020 into law “We are also impressed by the the globe. 200,000 households, at an estima- to give legal backing to the on- rapid response from the Lagos State But like other countries that have tion of six people (father, mother going enforcement of restrictive Government,” he added. been hit by the virus, the stay-at- and four children) will have access measures being taken by the State In a matter of hours, the Lagos home order required a stimulus to the package which consists of Government to contain the spread State Governor commuted to the package to help individuals and bags of rice, beans, garri, dry pep- of the virus. Presidency in Abuja a number companies affected by the virus. per, drinking waters and vitamins. The regulation, Sanwo-Olu said, of times to impress the degree Lagos State Government once again It is expected that the package will prescribes stringent penalties to of carnage and why the Federal benefitted from the largesse of sustain the family for the 14-day defaulters of directives and guide- Government should help Lagos. the Federal Government which period. He also opened 50 neigh- lines issued by the government to So far, the Dangote Group has approved the sum of N10 billion bourhood food markets across the stop community transmission of donated N100 million worth of to the state. The United Bank for state to serve as makeshift groceries COVID-19. cement to the ERF while the Nige- Africa (UBA) Foundation in the for residents to buy food items on One key area that Sanwo-Olu is ria Governors’ Forum (NGF) gave same manner donated N1 billion Friday, March 27. likely to face greater challenge is N200 million. to the state out of its N5 billion While addressing journalists, the in data collection. The ability of The precarious and demanding COVID-19 relief support fund for governor said tougher decisions the state government to clearly times has brought out the genius in affected areas in Africa. may be taken as the state is notic- identify families that fall under Sanwo-Olu. These are very much The pan-African bank said it will ing a stage trend of community the targeted 200,000 households unlike the routine, even if, tasking fund a medical centre immediately transmission of the disease. will determine how successful the job of securing the state, waste in Lagos with beds for isolation “We have started to see a trend plan will be. and traffic management and fixing and ICU facilities, managed and that suggests we may be entering This is when the wisdom and the roads. operated in partnership with Heirs the phase of community transmis- consistency of successive govern- As confirmed cases of COVID-19 Holdings’ healthcare subsidiary, sion of the disease. In response to ments in Lagos may pay off. For continue to mount in the state, Avon Medical Hospital. this, we are formally launching our instance, Lagos State was the only Sanwo-Olu never derailed in In addition, UBA is providing a Neighborhood Markets scheme. state that appointed its own paid responding swiftly to the emer- free telemedicine platform, that is We have 50 large public-school enumerators to work side-by-side gency. From buttressing the need physician-led, to provide direct premises across the state that can federal enumerators during the to observe good personal hygiene access to medical advice to citi- accommodate temporary open mar- 2006 National Population Census. to other palliative measures to zens, in compliance with social kets where we will have essential Again, the usefulness of the Lagos curb the spread of the contagious distancing requirements. food items and household items State Residents Agency (LASRA) respiratory disease which is easily In a statement, the Chairman of available for sale at affordable can’t be overemphasised at this transmitted from one person to the UBA Group Tony Elumelu said, rates. time. other through close contact and “This is a time when we must all “These Neighborhood Markets With his resilient efforts to free respiratory droplets when people play our part. This global pandemic will operate every two days, and the state from the virus, Sanwo-Olu cough or sneeze. Travel restrictions must bring citizens, governments will help achieve a number of would need to reach more grassroots were put in place and he limited and business leaders together – goals that are all in line with the where misinformation is prevalent the number of social gatherings and quickly. As we see a rapidly guidelines of the health authorities. and rules discarded. With low en- to 50. That number was whittled increasing number of cases of The markets will reduce journey forcement measures in these remote to 25 after more infected persons the Coronavirus in Nigeria and times for the residents. By exten- areas, residents are still at risk of were identified. Africa, the private sector has to sion, it reduces the time people contracting the virus. “As a responsible government,” work hand in hand with various will spend in public and will also Indeed, Sanwo-Olu’s legacy to a the governor tweeted on Thursday, governments, in stemming the help to maintain social distancing large extent is dependent on how March 19, “we must take actions to spread of the global pandemic.” requirements.” he passes the Coronavirus test. It protect our residents from physical is the first major challenge he is and other potential threats. After confronted with since he assumed consulting with our healthcare office. So far, he’s done remark- professionals over COVID-19, ably well such that Reno Omokri, we are closing down schools and former media aide to ex-president religious gatherings.” Indeed, Sanwo-Olu’s legacy to a large Jonathan Goodluck Tweeted that The governor also called for President Muhammadu Buhari closures of clubs and bars. should hand over to the governor He urged the public to practice extent is dependent on how he passes if he can’t lead. social distancing and avoid unnec- The Tweet was among a series essary panic due to misinformation. the Coronavirus test. It is the first major of comments made by the author On the state government Twitter in regards to President Muham- page, tips on staying healthy challenge he is confronted with since madu Buhari’s lackadaisical at- and other protective measures titude towards the public over the are posted daily. The state also he assumed office. So far, he’s done spread of the disease. Unlike the employed other media channels President, Sanwo-Olu made it a to spread the message of social remarkably well such that Reno Omokri, habit to always address the public distancing and protection from on the situation on ground every the virus. A hotline for persons week. By doing so, he allayed fears who may exhibit symptoms of the former media aide to ex-president and helped to stem the proliferation disease was set up. of fake news. His Twitter page On Sunday March 22, the gov- Jonathan Goodluck Tweeted that is always full of updates on the ernor once again directed civil condition of the state. Perhaps, servants from grade level 1 to 12 President Muhammadu Buhari should other states should learn from the to stay at home. The directive was leadership model that Sanwo-Olu issued as more cases of COVID-19 hand over to the governor if he can’t lead is unknowingly setting. 20 THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi FEATURES Email [email protected], 08038901925 Theatre of Death for Nigerian Soldiers Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that the deadly ambush in Gorigi, near Alagarno Forest in Borno State, that left 47 soldiers dead and 15 others wounded, is a sad occurrence that re-emphasises the need for the military to formulate new strategies as this recent attack underscores the continued threat the Boko Haram terrorists poses to the region

Boko Haram Terrorists

Eﬀects of the strike by the military on Valangide Air Interdiction at Muktu

n February 22, 2020, the Chief of battle one major challenge: regrouping terror attack. Malamfatori, Baga, Gajiganna, Magumeri, Army Staff, Lieutenant General forces. Although Nigeria continues to suffer the It is therefore no gainsaying that the Monguno and even beyond reaching to the Tukur Buratai, said with the same fate in its fight against the BHTs, there intensified and repeated attacks in recent borders of Lake Chad and Niger Republic, renewed zeal shown by Nigerian is no doubt that the military has considerably times undermine the repeated claims by the but the recent attacks have heightened fears troops battling Boko Haram and recorded some successes by reclaiming lost military that the sect had been decimated. about the repeated assurances by the military theO Islamic State for West African Province grounds, pushing them back into the arid For years, and even in recent times, with the that Nigeria is indeed winning the war against (ISWAP) in the North-east, the menace of the desert and sometimes, even crippling their numerous successes they recorded, the military insurgency and extremisms. terrorists and their criminalities may end in sources of weaponry. has maintained that the rampaging sect has It was no different last week when the sect just a matter of days. But despite these measures, the terrorists keep been contained, but the recent resurgence has again attacked and incinerated soldiers. But In a letter written to the Theatre Commander, inventing new strategies to stay afloat. While put paid to those claims. this time around, this attack was one of the Operation Lafiya Dole, Major General Olusegun they have been sacked from the caliphates Although Boko Haram no longer controls deadliest by the sect on the military forces. Adeniyi, Buratai praised the commanders for they had arrogated to themselves, they still swathes of territory in the NE as it did in Just last week, the Boko Haram terrorists their gallantry, patriotism and commitment to unleash pockets of violence in some areas, the height of insurgency in 2014, the recent dealt a deadly blow on the military. In one the war effort by decimating the leadership especially through suicide bombing, and attacks underscores the continued threat the attack, they felled 47 soldiers after Boko Haram and rank and file of the insurgents. most recently, the resurgence and attacks sect poses to the region. staged a deadly ambush on a moving convoy But that same day, Boko Haram attacked in Borno State. of troops around Alagarno in Yobe State. motorists near Kaliyari, a community located According to security analysts, the insurgents The Ambush According to reports, the terrorists ambushed 70 kilometers north of Damaturu, the Yobe are pulling off almost daily attacks. As if that Despite repeated claims by the Armed Forces the military vehicle conveying logistics which State capital. According to reports, the sect was not enough, they once cut off power that the Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT) sect has included bombs and other weapons and shot members stormed the community, shooting from the national grid. been depleted and highly degraded, the recent at it, resulting in an explosion that killed the sporadically. During the attack, which took In the past months, specifically from April actions of the terrorists certainly suggests soldiers and the insurgents that mounted the over two hours, the insurgents were said to 2019, there has been a consistent resurgence otherwise. Week in and out, stories abound ambush. have mounted a roadblock and seized a group and escalation of Boko Haram Terrorists (BHTs) of the sect wrecking havoc on the Nigerian Although the death toll was initially put at of vigilantes with their Hilux van. attacks in the North-east (NE). Already, the forces, sometimes even over running their 70, the military later came out to debunk that. renewed onslaught by BHT has claimed bases and killing the soldiers. The insurgents had fired rocket-propelled Regrouping Boko Haram Forces hundreds of lives, especially that of soldiers, It is no gainsaying that Northern Borno is grenades (RPGs) at a truck carrying troops World over, the military and security forces who are often the first buffer in the line of the stronghold of BH, from Metele to Abadam, and weapons. THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ 21 FEATURES

THISDAY gathered that the troops had left Maiduguri and were on its way to launch an offensive on a camp belonging to jihadists, when they drove into an ambush, thereby setting off conspiracy theories of a mole leaking their movement. This recent slaughter of soldiers in an ambush by Boko Haram in the North-east, undermine repeated claims by the military that the group has been decimated. On January 8, no fewer than three soldiers were killed in an intense fighting between the army and the sect around a key garrison town in the Lake Chad area. The soldiers died when an army vehicle burst into flames after a car filled with explosives rammed into a convoy. A patrol team was attacked near Monguno, but the patrol was quickly reinforced and the attack was repelled. Though there were fewer casualties on the Nigerian troops through vehicle-borne Improvised Explosive Devices (IED), many Boko Haram Terrorists were however eliminated during the encounter. Also on January 17, not less than 17 soldiers were killed in confrontations between the military and Boko Haram insurgents along Bama-Gwoza road. Many soldiers were also said to have been abducted by the insurgents, who also suffered severe damage in its flanks. The insurgents were said to have attacked The reprisal by the military Firgi, 20 kilometres north of Pulka along the road from Gwoza to Bama on Friday night. are mightily proud of your husbands and we They were equally said to have carted away salute them and you who stand by them. some arms, ammunition and vehicles belonging We will support you in ways we can and to the Nigerian Army. we will support you directly through your The next day, the insurgents came back bank accounts so that you start business and and attacked a military company at Banki boost the ones you are doing” Zulum said junction on Bama-Gwoza road. For three hours, to the ovation of the women. they battled and the casualties on the side of the military was four with the record from Burning Questions the insurgents not known. The insurgents While the military and of course, the federal were also said to have abducted yet to be government rally round to put to a stop the ascertained number of soldiers and carted incessant deaths of our soldiers, some pertinent away arms and ammunition. and burning questions begs for answers. Questions like- why would the soldiers Military’s Reaction continually protest the dearth of modern Although the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) equipment if truly they were given? Why initially confirmed 47 soldiers were killed and the constant clamour for improved welfare 15 others wounded in the ambush by Boko for the troops? Why must the response of Haram, they would later bring the figure the military to the clamour for improved down to 29 soldiers and unknown number welfare be courtmartial? Why must tales of for the officers. President Muhammadu Buhari Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai corruption continually trail funds released to The Coordinator of the Defence Media fight insurgency? What happened to the release Operations, Major General John Enenche, contact situation report of 47 killed in action military “not to allow the incident to affect their of N360 billion approved by the president in clarified that the 47 soldiers were not killed and 15 wounded in action. This is a common morale,” assuring them that his administration April, 2018, from the excess crude account in direct combat with the terrorists, rather occurrence during combat operations due to would continue to motivate and equip them (ECA) for the purchase of military equipment the terrorists ambushed the military vehicle the fog of war, encounters or conflicts, when adequately in order to cope with the complex to fight Boko Haram insurgency? What kind conveying logistics and artillery, which included first contact reports are released to higher challenges of unconventional warfare. of equipment were acquired and where are bombs and other weapons and shot at it. quarters in contemporary times, in order Shehu said the Nigerian Army had dispatched they now? According to him, the shooting resulted in to counter false reports and fake news by a team to assess the situation and report back Given the recent fury of the sect against an explosion that killed the soldiers and the mischief makers,” he added. to the government. the military, should we expect new tactical insurgents that mounted the ambush. manouevers from the military? Should the He said: “As you know, we are in a fluid Reprisal A Governor’s Palliative soldiers expect better welfare to boost their conflict situation and our gallant troops are out Following the gruesome ambush, the military Following the onslaught against the soldiers, already dwindling morale? What tough stance there at the frontlines. Ladies and gentlemen, high command carried out reprisal on the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, an- should we expect in the coming days from the between 21 and 23 March 2020, troops of enemy camp in combined air strikes and nounced cash support of N23.5 million to the military? While all these questions needs to be Operation Lafiya Dole, were on clearance and artillery bombardment by troops and Air families of the 47 soldiers. answered, Nigerians need workable solutions fighting patrol operation to Gorgi in Borno Task Force of Operation Lafiya Dole, which The governor, who was at Maimalari Army and visible implementations to end this theatre State, which was successfully done. they decimated 100 insurgents. Barrack in Maiduguri, said each family of the of death of our gallant soldiers and officers. “However, during consolidation, they were According to Enenche, “the team also 47 fallen heroes would be given N500,000 cash, ambushed by elements of Boko Haram Terrorists found a casualty of over 100 Boko Haram “which should not be seen as compensation for Way Forward (BHT). Sadly, we suffered some casualties in terrorists neutralised as the result of direct fire the lost priceless lives but as social protection Globally, the threat posed by terrorism the unfortunate attack. Forty-seven soldiers action and encounter with the gallant troops considering the tough economic times caused cannot be understated. Accordingly, nations were killed and 15 soldiers were wounded.” of the land component of the Armed Forces by COVID-19 inspired lockdowns across the have evolved various approaches to tackle the Afterwards, Enenche said upon review of of Nigeria during the clearance of Gorgi.” country”. menace with mixed results depending on the the casualty, 29 soldiers and some officers He further noted that the land component Zulum, received by the G.O.C, 7 Division country and nature of the threat. Nigeria has were killed while 39 others were wounded of the Armed Forces of Nigeria in Operation of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier General not been an exception when the rise of the during the fire-fight. Lafiya Dole successfully cleared Gorgi and A.K Ibrahim, was at the barrack to convey sect assumed international notoriety in 2009. He said the review of the number downwards dealt a heavy blow on the enemy and the condolences and solidarity with the authorities It must however be noted that the nature was based on new figures from the battlefield, end state of clearing Gorgi was achieved. of the military’s counter-insurgency operation of asymmetric warfare particularly counter adding that some officers were killed but in the Northeast, Operation Lafiya Dole. terrorism and counter insurgency in a complex could not make their names available since FG’s Charge He said:“Nothing can compensate for losing environment requires dynamism to address the procedure for informing their families Reacting to the monumentalL loss, President these precious brothers and patriotic Nigerians. the challenges of the fluidity of operation. were not concluded. Muhammadu Buhari expressed “profound We commiserate with their families and because Expectedly, it has it ups and lows, the latter On the burial plans for the fallen officers, he grief and sorrow’’, just as he charged the we are at a tough and unprecedented times, which should not drag for a long time if the said the next of kin of the deceased soldiers troops not to allow the loss affect their morale. the government of Borno will support each war is to be won. would be contacted while a befitting burial The president, according to a statement by family with N500,000. Importantly also, we One of the major ways to surmounting the would be accorded the fallen soldiers and presidential spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, hope the unfortunate incident will not dampen challenges of this strange war, according to officers in line with military burial procedure. said “sacrifices of our gallant patriots cannot the spirit of our gallant military in our shared some military officers who spoke anonymously, “Following the encounter between Armed be quantified, and their sacrifices cannot go fight against Boko Haram.” is to constantly change leadership of the Forces of Nigeria and insurgents in Operation in vain.’’ The Borno Governor, who also used the military in the theatre of war, which allows Lafiya Dole at Gorgi between 21 and 23 March The statement said the president, who occasion of his visit to address widows and for introduction of new tactics, approach to 2020, a team was sent to carry out the due commiserated with their families and those other family women living at the Maimalari logistics and fire support that will bring about operational after action procedure which include who sustained injuries, added that the death barracks, directed that an accurate and verifiable the desired operational success. reconfirmation of casualties and immediate of every soldier causes deep pains because he list of all widows and family be compiled Undoubtedly, the criminal elements have medical evacuation required among others. knows what it means to be a soldier. with each identifying her choice of small scale not always had the upper hand. The military “After the exercise, the team made the According to the statement, the president business and bank account details attached to recorded some laudable successes this year following findings: 29 Nigerian troops were fully understands the extreme risks associated every name so that government can transfer in the war against insecurity. Although the killed in action and 39 were wounded in ac- with the profession, noting that “despite the startup capital to them. successes, which are too numerous to mention, as a result of the explosion of the truck tragedies and incidents, we cannot allow He said: “You the widows and those married tion are no doubt laudable, given the huge carrying logistics and ammunition resupply anarchists and mass murderers to hold the women with children have borne the impact of sacrifices the soldiers make, the gains must for the fighting echelon. country hostage”. the sacrifices made by your soldier-husbands. be sustained if it should have any meaningful “This is contrary to the figures from the first It added that the president appealed to the We know your pains and we share them. We impact on the war against terror. 22 MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 •THISDAY THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ 2020 23

Group Business Editor Obinna Chima Email [email protected] BUSINESSWORLD 08152447875

RATES AS AT MARCH 27, 2020 MONEY MARKET REPO S & P INDEX S & P INDEX EXCHANGE RATE OVERNIGHT 17.10 CALL 14.50 INDEX LEVEL 461.82% 1/4 TO DATE - 4.020% N361/1US DOLLAR* OBB 15.80 1-MONTH 1 0 1-DAY 0.29% YEAR TO DATE - 4.02% ̩ 3-MONTH 10.50 MONTH-TO-DATE -12.02% Quick Takes LAPO Suspends Union Meetings LAPO Microfinance Bank Limited, one of Nigeria’s leading microfinance banks, has enforced a temporary suspension of its weekly and monthly clients’ and staff union meetings across the country. This disclosure was contained in a statement issued by the Bank’s Head of Communications, Oluremi Akande. Akande, said, “given the intense nature of our interactions with our clients, the suspension of Union Meetings is a deliberate step to immediately achieve social distancing and curtail the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Importantly, this measure will guarantee the protection of the lives of our clients, Staff and families; and by extension, the communities we serve”. He said LAPO would continue to deploy campaigns to educate members of the public about the virus, thereby, minimising the level of infection and by implication enabling the systemic defeat of COVID-19 in our country. Smile Assures of Uninterrupted Services As the coronavirus continues to spread, West Africa’s 4G LTE broadband service provider, Smile Nigeria, has enjoined all Nigerians to strive to be safe by observing all necessary safety precautions. To this end, the company said BREAKFAST MEETING it has created data free access to websites for everyone, on its network, L-R: General Manager, Procurement, ExxonMobil, Judith Mbonu; President, Women in Energy Network (WIEN),Mrs. Funmi Ogbue; Managing to have easy access to up-to-date information on the pandemic. Director/CEO, Aftrac Limited, Patricia Simon-Hart; and Director Multistream Energy Limited, Awuneba Ajumogobia, during a breakfast session to In a statement issued at the weekend by the 4G Long Term Evolution commemorate the International Women’s Day, held in Lagos... recently ETOP UKUTT (LTE) broadband service provider, it said: “Appreciative of the current restriction of movement, aimed at combatting the ravages of Coronavirus in Nigeria, Smile has taken steps to remain fully operational and serve the best interest of its customers in this challenging time. Consequently, it has created many online platforms to enable its teeming customers to recharge, make enquiries and seek assistance. Smile customers can RenCap Foresees Economic henceforth utilize it social media platforms, e-mails and telephone. CIBN Adjusts Programmes The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) has ap- Recession for Nigeria proved the adjustment of all its programmes scheduled to take place between March 23 and June 30, 2020, due to the spreading coronavirus in the country. The decision, the institute said it took r out of the concern to safeguard the health of its members, other ¢ȱȱĴȱȱȱȱ ȱȱȱȱ stakeholders and members of the general public and in adherence to the social restriction order by the Lagos State Government and Obinna Chima ECONOMY GDP,” she added. “For oil prices, the extent of some other states in Nigeria. But in his contribution, the potential damage depends on According to a statement signed by the Registrar/ Chief Execu- Renaissance Capital’s Sub-Saharan main factors flagged by the whether we see a “V” or “U” tive, Mr. ‘Seye Awojobi, three of its statutory programmes would Africa (SSA) Economist, Yvonne per cent. Director, Frontier / SSA banks’ shaped recovery in oil prices. hold as earlier scheduled but digitally and virtually through video Mhango, has predicted that the Slower growth implied fiscal research analyst, Adesoji Solanke, Banks have put hedges in place conferencing. These programmes are Pre-Annual General Meet- Nigerian economy will slip back positions would deteriorate across for the SSA banking sector were for many of their oil customers but ing, Annual General Meeting and 2020 CIBN Election designed to into recession this year, due to the the board, she said. the COVID-19 implications, not for all production, and these take place through e-voting platform. However, another five of the impact of the significant slump Yvonne assumed that three of low oil prices, the devaluation are also time-limited between 6 statutory programmes were postponed till a conducive period. The in the price of crude oil as well the region’s five biggest econo- of currencies, and deteriorating and 18 months.” programmes are the April 2020 Diet Banking Professional and as disruptions caused by the mies – Nigeria, South Africa and asset quality. Solanke, however, said Nigerian Certification examinations, Presidential Valedictory Address and COVID-19 pandemic. Angola – would contract, and “Across the key markets we banks were in a better position Investiture, CIBN USA Branch International Biennial Conference Speaking during an online that the naira would continue to cover, our view is that COVID-19 today to navigate a low oil price and Annual Lecture. The statement also indicated that new dates press conference at the weekend, come under pressure to depreciate has negative demand and sup- environment, “as the vintages they would be announced as soon as the situation permits while all the Mhango said a sharp decrease in as Nigeria’s external balances ply side implications for banks’ went into the 2014 crisis with have Governing Council and Committee meetings shall henceforth be oil revenue implied a significant deteriorate. customers whether large, small now been properly stress tested conducted virtually through video conferencing and other streaming deceleration of Nigeria’s Gross However, “lower oil prices are or individuals. and they simply need to dust technologies. The Institute apologised for any inconvenience this Domestic Product (GDP) growth. positive for SSA’s oil-importing “There are also growing up the playbook – restructurings might have caused its members and other stakeholders. In her presentation which countries, especially those of East operational risks stemming from and moratoriums will happen focused on Africa, the economist Africa, such as Kenya, and positive branch closures, poor internet and but with impairment implications Afrinvest Adopts Safety Measures noted that the continent’s oil for their current account balances energy availability for stay-at-home under IFRS 9.” Afrinvest West Africa Limited said it has introduced all recom- exporters would be severely hit and their currencies. employees; and risks to earnings Speaking earlier in the online mended safety measures in the fight against the COVID-19. hard by the drop in oil prices. This, “Inflation is likely to slow across interest and non-interest press briefing titled: ‘Where are we The investment bank pointed out that the outbreak of pathogen has according to her, implied a sharp on the back of lower transport income as well. in the struggle to make forecasts caused a global health pandemic that has caused widespread uncertainty slowdown across all economies in and energy costs, allowing for “Overall, how bad this get for EEMEA during COVID-19?,’ while pushing global healthcare resources to near breaking point. It noted the region, even as she anticipated accommodative monetary policy, depends on how long countries Renaissance Capital Global Chief that as governments world over take steps to implement measures to that SSA’s growth would fall to although this will be undermined remain locked down and how Economist, Charles Robertson, contain the spread, “we would like to share with you what we are doing 1.3 per cent in 2020, compared by the COVID-19 related drop in quickly we get the economic to ensure the safety of our employees and clients while maintaining our with her previous forecast of 3.5 global demand that will subdue engine moving afterwards. Continued on page 24 quality of service.” “With the announcement of the index case, we took precautionary measures by sharing safety tips with all our teams and mandating temperature scans and use of hand sanitisers to gain entry Customs Agents Urge FG to Halt Demurrage Charges into all our locations in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Onitsha. exported items might have been Eromosele Abiodun MARITIME trapped in the various gateways state governments have closed to the nation. interstate borders, markets are Following the coronavirus crisis “As such demurrages and locked and movement of certain “Government should that has made it virtually impos- Customs Agents (ANLCA), rent payable to Shipping Com- vehicles restricted.” sible for goods to be cleared on the umbrella body of customs panies, Concessionaires/Terminal The agents also called on the announce a tax credit time at the nation’s seaports, agents in the country, Mr Iju Tony Operators will have attended an federal government to declare a or partial tax reduction custom agents in the country Nwabunike, made the plea in unbearable proportion due to the Force Majeure at the port in line for companies or have called on the federal an open letter addressed to Vice lock down. with international best practices. government to direct ship- President Yemi Osinbajo. “As you already know sir, it is “We hereby call for the enforce- firms. VAT should be ping companies and terminal According to the agents, “There difficult, if not totally impossible ment of “Force Majeure” and suspended for the next operators to immediately halt is no gain saying that before the to process customs documentation total lockdown of our seaports as 2-4 months” demurrage charges and taxes COVID-19 pandemic subsides for and take delivery of cargoes in already done in the airports and to avoid friction at the ports. normal businesses in the seaports, our ports during this period. border stations to curb the spread The National President of the airports and border stations to “Even when attempts are APC National Leader, Association of Nigerian Licensed take it full swing, imported and made, it becomes difficult because Continued on page 24 Bola Tinubu 24 THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ

BUSINESSWORLD NEWS

RENCAP FORESEES ECONOMIC RECESSION FOR NIGERIA FG to Lift Suspension on Mining underscored the encouragement from the flattening of new COVID-19 cases in Italy, which Activities in Katsina State peaked at the weekend. The progression of the virus Kasim Sumaina in Abuja activities in the state.” years, with a view to ensuring the best time to look at other development of a secured mining was fairly straightforward to Ogah, stressed that with the that commercial production sources of revenue generation sector, it would be able to deliver monitor, according to Charles, The federal government has said abundance of mineral resources, return. in the face of falling prices of on its electoral promises and who believed that US markets its working towards the lifting Nigeria has the capacity to gener- He however called for stronger crude oil, adding that the solid lift its people out of poverty. might see new cases peak in April. of suspension placed on mining ate revenue, grow the economy collaboration between the federal, minerals sector holds the key Masari enjoined the ministry to He stressed that emerging activities in Katsina State. and develop infrastructure state and local governments for economic independence for confirm the suitability of land for markets have beaten Europe in This is even as it noted that through mining. to achieve full harnessing of the country. mining purposes, especially from their lockdown-enacting measures, in a bid to attract investors and He added that the ministry mineral resources for economic He said the state was work- state governors before granting acting faster and more effectively ensure the security of invest- would want to have first-hand development. ing on ensuring security and a licenses to prospective miners overall, “if we judge from the ments, it has put incentives such information about the operational In his remarks, Governor stable political atmosphere that in order to avoid the possibility number of cases per 100,000 as zero per cent import duty on status of the Dana Rolling Mill, of Katsina State, Bello Masari, would attract the confidence of of giving licenses on land that population.” the importation of mining and which has been shut down for said the visit was apt as it was investors, saying that with the is already in use. “Russia, South Africa, Turkey metallurgical plant equipment, and Egypt have all acted earlier in place. than many European countries – Disclosing this on behalf of the similarly to East Asia, where the government, Minister of State for virus is much more contained,” Mines and Steel Development, he said. Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Robertson pointed out that the Ogah, stated that punitive further crash in EM currencies measures were being put in has taken them to seriously place that would see that illegal cheap levels, their lowest since operators go to jail for two years the late 1990s, with the biggest without an option of fine. currency downward moves in The minister stated this Latin America – Columbia, Brazil during his sensitisation visit and Peru – all at 25 per cent. to Katsina State Governor, Alhaji Bello Masari recently, CUSTOMS AGENTS where he intimated him of URGE FG TO HALT the ministry’s effort to optimise DEMURRAGE CHARGES revenue generation from mining of solid minerals. of the deadly coronavirus and to He explained that with about protect the Nigerian workforce 15 different minerals available operating in our ports. in Katsina, the state has a lot “We also appeal to the to benefit if proper mining federal government to prevail regulations were adhered to, on shipping companies, terminal adding that it could serve as operators and other agencies a core stimulator towards an in the ports to be prepared to industrial revolution that would waive all charges, taxes and fees spur a wave of infrastructural during this period of national development for the Katsina compromise at all levels,” they people. said. “Consequently, we seek for According to him, “the DISCUSSING GLOBAL ECONOMY all demurrage, rents, penalties ministry is working towards the Managing Director, International Monetary Fund (IMF), Kristalina Georgieva (left) and Deborah Greenfield, during a panel session on Artificial e.tc emanating from inability to lifting of suspension of mining Intelligence and Economics at the IMF’s office in Washington, D.C…recently Cory Hancock clear cargoes as at when due from the ports at this period to be waived effective from the first week of March, 2020 Kano to Establish Platforms for Grazing Reserves, Stock Routes when the first case of the deadly virus was detected in Nigeria The Kano State Agro Pastoral to have said this during a visit itinerant lifestyle by herdsmen the Dansoshiya forest axis and project a resounding success. through an Italian citizen. Development Project (KSADP) to the Village Head of Dangora, and its accompanying repercus- to identify their development He urged the stakeholders pres- “We are appealing that will expend millions of naira Ardo of Dansoshiya forest, in sions. This endeavor will keep needs, so that we can plan projects ent during the meeting to help you use your good office to in the development of grazing Kiru local government area of them with animals around their and programmes which suit them create awareness on the project ensure that this is implemented reserves as well as the establish- the state, recently. homesteads and help them to best,” the State Project Coordinator and to ginger communal support immediately. Please note that we ment of platforms to manage “Our biggest investment in grow and store feed for the explained. towards its implementation. are dealing with concessionaires, grazing reserves and stock routes this direction is in developing animals,” Muhammad stressed. He said the KSADP intends to In their respective remarks, the shipping companies and others in several locations across the the Dansoshiya grazing reserve, “This visit, is therefore, to provide infrastructure and services community leaders promised to who are mainly foreigners, state, according to a statement by the largest in Kano state, which inform you, as critical stake- that would make life comfortable cooperate with the project officials hence the need for government the state Project Communication is about 4,312 hectres,” he stated. holders, that we are sending for the herdsmen living within towards successful stock-taking intervention and enforcement Specialist, Ameen Yassar. “This initiative is part of our some officials to enumerate the Dansoshiya Forest and its surround- of their development needs and has become necessary,” the The State Project Coordinator, several strategically designed pastoralists households, cattle ing area. He added that input from eventual improvement of the agents said. Ibrahim Muhammad, was quoted programmes, aimed at curbing heads and sundry needs, within the beneficiaries would make the Dansoshiya grazing reserve. Ijaw Youths, Heritage Energy Trade Blame

Sylvester Idowu in Warri while others outside the region the resultant effect, was the Operational Services Limited the invoices could be verified, were being paid. overwhelming and increasing (HEOSL), operator of Oil Min- there were some that could not. The Ijaw Youths Council ( IYC), He alleged that the Board poverty being experienced in the ing Lease (OML) 30 said the “Despite this, the company

the umbrella body of all Ijaw of Directors of the company, entirety of the Delta environment company was not indebted to went ahead and commenced with youths in the Niger Delta, has rather than pay contractors, with potentials to create militancy any of its contractors. the payment of verified invoices accused Heritage Energy Opera- pay themselves and their cronies in the region because, in most HEOSL made the clarifica- while investigating others. tional Services, Limited (HEOSL), stressing, “ they refuse to pay cases, people result to militancy tion in a statement made “The volume of the debts Group Business Editor available to THISDAY, in necessitated the development in Obinna Chima operators of the Operational the local contractors but they because they do not have means Mining Licence (OML) 30, of pay their own companies.” of survival. reaction to allegation that conjunction with contractors of Capital Market Editor impoverishing the people of “In other words, what they do Speaking further, Omare it was owing indigenous payment plans for installment Goddy Egene the region while making other is this, the company has a Board argued that despite the fact that contractors. payments. Since then, the Comms/e-Business Editor Nigerians billionaires from their of Directors , and those Board things were not totally the way HEOSL which operates company has been steadily Emma Okonji activities in the region. of Directors have subsidiaries they were expected to be, the OML 30 on behalf of its Joint reducing the debts according Senior Correspondent living condition of the people of Venture Partners, the Nigeria to the agreed payment plans.” Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising) But in a swift reaction, the of small, small companies with company dismissed the claim as which they take contracts that Niger Delta ,was far better during Petroleum Development HEOSL noted that since their Correspondents Chinedu Eze (Aviation) false, adding that the allegation are ordinarily ought to go to Shell Petroleum Development Corporation (NPDC) and takeover of the operation of the Eromosele Abiodun (Maritime) that it was incompetent and unfit the local contractors and when Company (SPDC) than what it Shoreline Natural Resources OML 30, it had adhered strictly James Emejo (Finance) to operate OML30 which is the it’s time for payment, they pay is presently. Limited (SNRL), urged the to the Global memorandum of Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Chineme Okafor ((Energy) second largest OML after Nembe themselves,” he added, noting He called on President public to disregard IYC understanding (GMoU) it entered in the country was untrue. that the, “implication is that, Muhammadu Buhari and claims. with host communities in October Reporters The President of the IYC , Eric instead of that money being the Minister of State,Ministry The statement explained 2018. “This clarification came in Nume Ekeghe (Money Market) Omare, during a press conference spent in the local environment of Petroleum Resources, Mr. “when it took over opera- response to allegations by the Nosa Alekhuogie (ICT) in Warri, recently, alleged that here, it is transported out of the Timipriye Sylva, to look into tions of OML 30, it inherited Ijaw Youth Council at a recent the company was owing local Niger-Delta region, and in most the issues raised and nip it in many invoices and ongoing press briefing to the effect that the contractors for more than two cases, out of the country.” the bud, before it escalates. contracts. The company company is owing contractors, years for jobs already executed Omare, maintained that However, Heritage Energy noticed that while some of some for as long as three years.” THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ 25

WAPIC Insurance, Others Gain Despite Bearish Trading Goddy Egene are, therefore, encouraged to continue to trade remotely via our electronic Investors in WAPIC Insurance Plc, platforms such as FIX protocol and Cutix Plc, Morison Industries Plc and XNET, and reach out to their Compli- Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals ance Officer if any support is required. Plc, had a good outing at the stock Please note that we will provide manual market last week despite the persistent support to members without remote bearish trading. access during this period. Issuers who The negative impact of the corona- have any business to conduct with virus and weak crude oil prices sent The Exchange can reach out to their the market to record low since the Relationship Manager for guidance. beginning of March following huge You should continue to submit all losses by stocks. regulatory filings via Issuers’ Portal However, the losses moderated two (X-Issuer). As The exchange embraces weeks ago when the Nigerian Stock social distancing as prescribed by Nigeria Exchange (NSE) All-Share Index (NSE Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), we ASI) fell by 2.35 per cent. The NSE ASI have further engaged with the federal recorded a lower decline of 1.52 per government on issues of annual general cent to close at 21,861.78 while market meetings, maturing financial instruments, capitalisation printed at N11.393 trillion. financial reporting, to mention a few and Despite the losses, shares of WAPIC, appropriate updates will be provided Morison and Neimeth among others in due course.” fetched gains for their investors. For Onyema said all physical meetings instance, while WAPIC appreciated by within and outside their office premises 23.8 per cent, Cutix Plc went up by had been suspended until further notice. 20.3 per cent. Morison and Neimeth “We have instructed our employees garnered 20 per cent apiece. to leverage technological tools to conduct According to analysts at Cordros meetings virtually. We assure you that Capital, despite pocket of gains, weak our virtual lines of communication will sentiments continued to dominate remain open to engage with you and the domestic market. The weak attend to your needs. We understand performance has made the NSE ASI that these are trying times, but we are to record a year-to-date decline of committed to ensuring we do not experi- 18.6 per cent. In terms of sectoral ence any disruptions to our operations. performance, the NSE Consumer Goods As we navigate this new reality, we Index recorded the highest decline of encourage you to follow our various 8.1 per cent. It was followed by the communication channels as we continue NSE Oil and Gas Index with 2.2 per to share relevant updates,” he said. cent, while the NSE Industrial Goods Index shed 0.5 per cent. Market turnover However, the NSE Insurance Index Meanwhile, investors traded 1.452 and NSE Banking Index appreciated, billion shares worth N14.918 billion in gaining 3.3 per cent and 2.1 per cent 21,828 deals in contrast to a total of 2.804 respectively. billion shares valued at N32.559 billion Commenting on the market perfor- that exchanged hands in 31,715 deals mance analysts at Cordros Capital said: the previous week. But the Financial “In our view, the trend witnessed this Services industry led the activity chart week is likely to persist, as weakening with 1.224 billion shares valued at market sentiment in the face of the N10.590 billion traded in 14,944 deals, fast-spreading coronavirus pandemic thus contributing 84.3 per cent and 70.9 and the weakness across global markets per cent to the total equity turnover are expected to pressure market returns. volume and value respectively. The Nonetheless, we advise investors to Conglomerates followed with 50.261 take positions in fundamentally justified million shares worth N61.457 million stocks.” in 442 deals. The third place was the Trading at the stock market went Consumer Goods industry, with a fully remote last Wednesday as the turnover of 47.276 million shares worth NSE closed all its floors as part of N2.509 billion in 2,225 deals. the efforts to curtail the spread of Also, trading in the top three equities: theCOVID-19. Zenith Bank Plc, Guaranty Trust Bank Explaining the decision to close the Plc and FBN Holdings Plc accounted trading floors, the Chief Exchange for 713.795 million shares worth N8.610 Officer of the NSE, Oscar Onyema, billion in 8,608 deals. They contributed said remote trading would continue 49.18 per cent and 57.7 per cent to the while its staff would be available total equity turnover volume and value through all its digital platforms to ensure the pricing of risk assets remains classes to allow investors to value investment decisions under these respectively. ETPs In the exchange provide support. transparent and reliable across asset their portfolios and make informed volatile conditions. Dealing members traded products, a total of 20 units valued “Over three weeks ago, we activated at N130.90 were traded in two deals, precautionary health measures across compared with a total of 15,121 units our offices where we screened visitors valued at N87.766 million transacted in with thermometers, provided sanitisers seven deals the previous week. and minimised access into our premises. Further to this and with the significant Top price gainers and losers growth in new cases, effective Tuesday, The price move chart showed that 34 March 24, 2020, we have activated a equities appreciated lower than 35 in the 30-day remote working plan for our previous week as against 30 equities that employees excluding essential staff. depreciated in price, which is higher “In order to give our dealing members than 27 equities in the previous week. enough notice, effective Wednesday, Apart from WAPIC, Morison, Cutix March 25, 2020 all our trading floors and Neimeth that were among the top will be temporarily closed, although gainers, CAP Pl c also went up by 18.9 remote trading will continue and NSE per cent. NEM Insurance Plc chalked up staff will be available through all our 18.8 per cent, while Union Diagnostic & digital platforms to provide support. Clinical Services Plc gained 18.1 per cent. We regret any inconvenience this Honeywell Flour Mills Plc appreciated may cause in the discharge of your by 18.0 per cent, just as Jaiz Bank Plc business activities, but we must act and Transcorp Plc added 17.7 per cent in the best interest of all stakeholders and 15 per cent in that order. at this time,” Onyema said. Conversely, Nigerian Breweries Plc The NSE boss noted that in line led the price losers, shedding 15 per with their robust Business Continuity cent, trailed by African Prudential Plc Management framework, they would with 11.1 per cent. Total Nigeria Plc, like to reassure stakeholders that Caverton Offshore Support Group Plc, they have put in place measures to Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, and Nestle ensure their operations and trading Nigeria Plc dipped 10 per cent each. activities continue seamlessly throughout Other top price losers included: Conoil this period. Plc (9.9 per cent); Unilever Nigeria Plc He said: “As an exchange, we will (9.8 per cent); NASCON Allied Industries ensure that all relevant information Plc (9.5 per cent); C & I Leasing Plc continues to flow into the market to (9.4 per cent). 26 THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ

Sule: Our Target is to Ramp up Nassarawa’s IGR Nassarawa State Governor Mr. Abdullahi Sule, during an interactive session with journalists in Lagos, spoke on efforts by his administration to industrialise the state and make it self-sustaining as well as to increase its internally generated revenue generation. The former Managing Director of Dangote Dangote Sugar Refinery said his target is to position the state as one of the top 10 in terms of revenue generation by 2023. Peter Uzoho brings the excerpts: You have been in the saddle as Nassarawa State Governor for 10 months now, tell us about the projects you are carrying out to industrialise the state? Well, when I came into office I met a lot of ongoing projects. The moment I came in, the Chairman of Azman came to me and said it would be nice for his company to come to Nassarawa State and set up some kind of businesses in support of my person and office as governor. I said agriculture would be ideal. He agreed to invest in agriculture and I said rice would be perfect and we promised to offer him land. Of course he did. They have done their soil test, their topography test, water level test and the rest of that. Now, they are getting ready to mobilise and commence farming. They have paid the compensation for land to the people for 14,000 hectares of land and that project, the Azman Rice Farms is about to take off. So, they are just mobilising equipment to site. So that is one project, I will say that we started from ground zero. However, we also met some other ones on ground like the Dangote project. We met that Dangote had acquired about 6,000 hectares of land in Tunga, which had already been cleared and roughly about 1500 hectares of land had already been planted with sugar cane. Since we came, we went massively to work with the Dangote project. Today, over 5, 000 hectares of land have been cleared and they are employing people massively into the farm. They have also mobilised lots of equipment to the site and they are getting ready to work on the construction of the factory itself. So, that is the second one, which we consolidated and ensured it is ongoing. We also met the another company, Olam, that had been working. And Olam, had roughly about 3,800 hectares of land for rice production and had employed roughly about 2,000 out-growers. So we came in and joined hands with them. They are now working on a larger scale with roughly about Sule 10,000 hectares of land that has been cleared and they are in the process of planting in the are going to be huge sites. Each one will not to empower our youths. We are working on instance, that project is going to now generate whole area and employing more people. So be less than 7,000 to 8,000 hectares of land, a N1.5 billion loan that is going to come from its one power. You know, sugar cane, once you that is on the agricultural side. There are a lot that is going to address the issue of our own the CBN at a single digit rate. Again, land has take the cane itself and extract the watery part, of other companies. For instance, in Keffi, there security in the state. Once we take care of the already been identified in Nassarawa State around then the solid part of it becomes fuel that you is a company called Newpal. The company issue of security, because all the cattle will now Doma Local Government Area, and that land can actually use to generate power. Dangote came in with the intention of processing be provided with grazing area. And in the is going to be purely for the youths that will project, once completed will generate about 98 agricultural produce. So, we worked with grazing area there will be water, there will be be operating more like an out-grower scheme. megawatts of power on its own. They don’t them and encouraged them. I inaugurated the special grass for grazing, there will be schools, An area will be given to each group of the need 98MW, so what they will do is that they Newpal Automated Agri processing project in security post, clinic for the people, so that we youth. Then they will carry out the farming will use about half of that, the remaining half Keffi. And, today they are processing corn can now gather the Fulanis and the herders and whatever they farm, they are selling to they will have to send it to the national grid, and they have employed many of our people. in those particular areas. So there will be no an off-taker. If it is rice, they have Olam that or they now draw lines that will go around the We are also working with the Flour Mills of more open grazing routes. By the time you can buy, we have Dangote Rice that can buy. area. But there are no major projects around Nigeria. They have come in. They are going to do that, that side is also going to be a site. If it is sugar cane, we have Dangote that can the area to take another 40MW of power. So take about 20,000 hectares of land for cassava. There will also be no roaming all over the buy. If it is cassava, we have Four Mills that it has to go the national grid, because for So they had already gone to the site, they state of the various cattle. There will be an can buy. Those are the kind of areas that we most of the villages, 2MW will be more than have acquired most of the other areas, getting abattoir in the area. So, it will be a site where are working on now. That I think is mostly enough for them. ready right now to do their final survey of the you can actually go and buy meat, buy milk, the concentration on the part of businesses and land, so they can identify which areas they buy butter and the rest of them. There will be the agriculture and the rest of them. Are you into any partnership with the would do road construction, which area will processing activities also within the same zone. Rural Electriﬁcation Agency, to enhance be what. I even met with the Flour Mills’ Those are the kind of things we are going to How are you tackling power challenge access to electricity in Nasarawa State Group Managing Director, recently, to finalise be doing in the different sites in Nassarawa in the state? through renewable energy? issues about that area. So in a nutshell, those State. That is also part of the industrialisation Power is one of the areas that we have worked Yes, we have established the rural and are the major ones we have worked on. But on the government side. And the extension very strongly with the federal government. renewable energy partnership with them. We we are still attracting some other companies of the agric again from the government side, There is the major 390KVA power substation have registered as one of the states. However, that will come in to invest in agriculture and we are working with the CBN and NIRSAL that we also came and met. Now they are we are also doing two kilometres solar power other areas. From the government side, we working with the Niger Delta Power Holding in every Local Government Area and we have have worked very strongly where we are now Company (NDPHC). The project itself is almost already completed that. So now in every LGA lucky. Nassarawa is one of the three states 95 per cent completed. Once completed it will we have two kilometres and we are using the in the federation that have been selected So, by extension, no have six lines. Two of them will be dedicated new system that doesn’t have battery and coil and are going in for the National Livestock mining licence will be to Lafia itself, one is going to Akwanga, one is alone and the rest of that. It is a single unit. Transformation Project (NLTP). The National going to Doma, one is going to Asakin area, Economic Council has already approved it and given unless the state and one is going to Kana-Awe axis. Right now, Nassarawa State is blessed with a lot we are now working on getting the National government is in the they are doing what they call line-in-Line-out. of solid minerals, are you tapping into Executive Council to approve for the release of When the main line comes, we have to drop that to grow your revenue? the funds, so that we can now start the project. picture. And also we the line and then we have to also u bundle Definitely. We have started tapping into Three sites have been identified in the state. have been going round the line, so that it will drop and then take that. There are some companies that are doing There is a site in Wamba Local Government most of the mining off. That is the only aspect of the contract solid minerals operations in Nassarawa State Area. There is a site in Awe Local Government that has not yet been completed. But the main that had not paid any taxes, any tenement Area, and there is a site in Nassarawa Local activities. I have a very project itself has been completed. Once that is rate, any dine up till. In fact, the biggest solid Government Area itself. There are additional strong commissioner done then there will be regular power supply minerals conference that takes place in Africa, sites both in Lafia, in Karu Local Government in Lafia. But some of these projects that we that is, Mining Indaba, which takes place in that we will be looking into. Right now the for environment, who is have mentioned don’t even require national three are the ones we are working on. These responsible for that grid. Take the sugar project of Dangote for CONTINUED ON PAGE 27 THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ 27

SULE: OUR TARGET IS TO RAMP UP NASSARAWA’S IGR NPA Denies Contradicting NCDC Over Covid-19 Case on Vessel Eromosele Abiodun a vessel when as shipping then report to the NCDC, “it companies, terminal operators, stated. Following public reactions jetty operators did not witness The NCDC, the NPA added, to attempts by the Nigerian such passengers through their has now clarified that these Ports Authority (NPA) to get respective COVID-19 protocol. cases were discovered on an full details of COVID-19 cases “The NPA and Ports Health oil rig, Siem Marlin on the said to have been found on Services have set clear protocols High Sea, offshore Lagos and a vessel, the Nigerian Ports on the identification of sick accessed by the Lagos State Authority (NPA) has denied people on vessels and the government and the NCDC contradicting the National management of suspected by helicopter. Centre for Disease Control and confirmed cases in line It added, “Maritime stake- (NCDC). with best practices set by holders would not have been The NPA said it did not by the International Maritime so apprehensive if it was clear its tweet on last Thursday, Organisation (IMO). that the passengers were on contradict the information “The protocol is that: The a rig. This clarification has released to the public by the captain of any vessel with a renewed the confidence of NCDC. sick person(s) on board must stakeholders in the effective- In a statement by its General fly two yellow flags, this done, ness of the processes put in Manager, Corporate and Stra- personnel of the Port Health place, which remains. the tegic Communications, Jatto Services will go into the vessel principal objective of the Adams, explained that what at berth, inspect it and in cases Authority. the tweet sought to do was where there is a person on “Given the fact that the get full details of incident for board, they will quarantine the maritime industry is central purposes of record and better ship and immediately escalate to the management of the management in the future. to the Lagos State Ministry of pandemic worldwide, the The NPA said it needed Health, the Ministry of Health Nigerian Ports Authority is the clarification to reassure will send an epidemiologist committed to working with its stakeholders who raised who will go on board with all other agencies of govern- concern over the announcement Port Health, take samples from ment to ensure the safety of that six cases were found on the suspected sick person and all Nigerians.

Sule Cape Town, I was the only governor that and all that from them. COVID-19: Heritage Bank Offers went. That will tell you how I am interested in solid minerals. So I went, the Minister of With the impact of COVID-19 on the crude Solid Minerals was there, so many miners from oil market and other economic activities, Seamless Services Nigeria were there. So many financiers around and considering how challenging Nassarawa the world were there. So we were there. That State’s FAAC allocation is, especially in Heritage Bank Plc said it According to Heritage Bank, ers to practice good hygiene, is one. Two, we took the case of solid minerals terms of paying salaries and all that, what has taken practicable steps incognisant with the protocols including: frequent hand wash- to NEC in the last meeting. Because, you see, other areas are you looking at to generate to offer seamless services to proffered by the World Health ing, use of sanitizer, limiting the solid minerals themselves belong to the more revenue to run the state? customers, whilst ensuring Organisation, the Nigeria contact with others, including federal government, but the land belongs to In fact, the civil servants in the state call the health and safety of its Centre for Disease Control and through shaking hands covering the state. So, what the companies had done me a revenue governor. Because they strongly workers and others due to the other health agencies, it has their mouths while coughing in order to exploit people, what the ministry believe I spend so much time trying to make COVID-19 pandemic. provided a work environment or sneezing require workers to requires is nothing but what they call Consent the state independent by generating revenue. The bank, in a statement, that is safe and adequate for stay away from the workplace Letter. So, they just go ahead and then obtain Nassarawa State is so lucky that if you have explained that it has put in workers in carrying out their if they are unwell and not fit the consent letter. They go to one community, revenue income of anywhere between N3 billion place crisis response measures work. for work, and encourage them divide the community into two, give this one to N4 billion a month, the state is self-sustaining, to minimise and manage the “The Bank has maintained to seek medical advice as ap- N500,000, this one N2 million, and then they it can survive on its own. That is how lucky we risk arising from the disruption a maximum of 10 per cent of propriate seek advice from health will give them the consent letter, and then they are. So, I kept telling them that my aim now is of business activities due to staff who constitute mainly unit authorities immediately if there will show it to the ministry and obtain their to see how we can be generating that. So, we the spreading virus. heads and “must have” work- has been a confirmed case of letter and then they will come and start mining. started by consolidating all our revenues. And It explained that it has put ing from its premises during COVID-19 and for staff who are The state will not even be aware of what is like you mentioned, every area you find in that in place payment infrastructure these times of uncertainties, arriving from affected countries happening. So we took this matter to NEC and place, from Masaka, all the way to Nyanya and logistics to maintain whilst others work remotely to self-quarantine for 14days,” our Chairman at NEC, Mr. Vice President, a at the border, you will see businesses upon operations as various state from home to adhere to the the financial institution stated. very intelligent guy who understands all these businesses. Somebody is generating revenue governments brace up for social distancing directive,” To ensure seamless banking legal issues and very fair person also. He said from them and pocketing it. It is not that lockdown to contain the pan- the statement added. transactions, the bank explained no, it is not right. So, he set up a committee revenue is not being generated. There are demic. The bank’s management The bank further noted that that customers are constantly and I am a member of that committee, to markets there that you can generate anywhere in a statement explained that efforts have been ongoing via communicated to, to adopt its review how licences will be given to people between N15 million and N20 million a part of its business continuity its intranet and other channels available 24/7 alternate electronic henceforth. So we are working on that. One of day from them. People are generating that management was to guarantee to keep staff and customers channels. the things we achieved was that no licence will and pocketing it. So, the first thing we seamless service delivery to its up-to-date with the latest “We have set up a COVID-19 be given and if one was given in the past that did on assumption was to ensure that we stakeholders, adopt measures COVID-19 information and Support Centre to offer CO- licence becomes null and void. The reason is, consolidate all our revenue sources. We to tackle significant business provide clear direction and VID-19 safety tips to all our no licence will be given until the original land appointed a commissioner responsible for risk that might have growth guidance expected of work- customers during this period, owner gives a consent. So, by extension, no revenue. His own focus is to do revenue. impact on economy, whilst ers and customers. “We have in support of the efforts of mining licence will be given unless the state We constituted a committee also that is taken reasonably practicable enforced and continued to the Government and relevant government is in the picture. And also we being chaired by that commissioner. steps to minimize the risk. monitor the need for work- bodies,” it added. have been going round most of the mining The aim is to ensure that we generate activities. I have a very strong commissioner revenue. We went around and identified for environment, who is responsible for that. the major buildings that were not being So he is going there. In fact, we have N15 tenanted. We tried to find out why they AfDB Launches $3bn COVID-19 Bond million for tenement rate that we have not were not being tenanted, they said they paid for the past seven years. So we are going had not got their documents, they had The African Development Bank According to a statement, for Africa, and we will provide to pay now’, this and that. He is a man, and I outstanding, they had their C of Os, and all (AfDB) has raised $3 billion the AfDB is moving to significant rapid support for want to even see what is there. Some people that. We asked our geographical informa- in a three-year bond to help provide flexible responses countries,” AfDB President, when they hear he is coming, they will come tion agency to go ahead and process the alleviate the economic and social aimed at lessening the severe Dr. Akinwumi Adesina said. and pay. So that is what we have been going documents. We processed and signed and impact the Covid-19 pandemic economic and social impact of The order book for this through. I’m not just looking at the revenue gave to them. So, today, we have actually will have on livelihoods and this pandemic on its regional record-breaking bond highlights that is coming to the state, I am trying to see grown past five states in revenue generation, Africa’s economies. member countries and Africa’s the scale of investor support, the entire business plan. How do you want because our revenue generation has grown The Fight Covid-19 Social private sector. which the African Development to reclaim the area after the mining activity is almost twice what we used to generate, and bond, with a three-year “These are critical times Bank enjoys, said the arrangers. done? How many people have you employed? that’s not my target. My target actually is maturity, garnered interest for Africa as it addresses the “As the Covid-19 outbreak What is your development plan? How much to see that we are one of the top 10 states from central banks and official challenges resulting from the is dangerously threatening CSR are you going to do for the local com- in the country, then I will be comfortable that institutions, bank treasuries, Coronavirus. The African Africa, the African Develop- munities? What are you building? A school, a we are now generating revenue. We used to be and asset managers including Development Bank is taking ment Bank lives up to its huge clinic, are you giving them scholarships? Are number 33, 34, but today, we are around 27, Socially Responsible Investors, bold measures to support responsibilities and deploys you providing boreholes for them for water 28, that’s where we are. with bids exceeding $4.6 billion. African countries. This $3 funds to assist and prepare the because you are already contaminating their As I said, by the next two, three years, our This was the largest Social billion Covid-19 bond issu- African population, through the environment? What are you doing to protect target is to be among the top 10. Once we are Bond ever launched in in- ance is the first part of our financing of access to health the environment in case of any environmental there, and the moment you begin to generate ternational capital markets comprehensive response that and to all other essential goods, hazards? What is the protection against some about N3 billion to N4 billion, we will be one to date, and the largest US will soon be announced. services and infrastructure,” diseases that may come 15, 20 years from now of the top 10. So that is actually the direction Dollar benchmark ever issued “This is indeed the largest said Tanguy Claquin, Head and this and that? So that is what we are checking that we are going and we have different areas by the Bank. It will pay an social bond transaction to date of Sustainable Banking, Crédit properly, rather than just taking tenement rent to do that. interest rate of 0.75 per cent. in capital markets. We are here Agricole CIB. 28 THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ

NANTA Gets New President Customs Joint Border Operations Chinedu Eze view of Covid 19 and the impact on global Travel. We are conscious The National Association of Nige- of the pressure to rebound and rian Travel Agencies (NANTA) has gain immediate foothold; yet Intercept Smuggled Goods Worth N802m sworn in Mrs. Susan Akporiaye as we are determined to guide our the 44th president of association. members to follow established Akporiaye took over from Mr. federal and states governments Hammed Shittu in Ilorin the men of the operations to rid momentum that will lead to more been mandated and tasked to Bankole Bernard, the immediate protocols on Covid 19 and practice the country from the activities of seizures and enforcement of federal work tirelessly and confront past president of the association. safety and social distancing as The Zonal Coordinator, Joint smugglers in the country. government directives towards challenges that militate against Speaking after she was sworn recommended by health officials Border Drill Operations in According to him, the seizures curtailing smuggling activities. our successes; we will continue to in, Akporiaye assured NANTA globally”, she said. charge of the North Central were made around Jebba-Mokwa, “I therefore stress the need for build on the achievement made members and its stakeholders She also assured the stakehold- zone, Mr. Mohammed Uba Okuta, Alapa and Kotangora axis all illicit traders to desist from all so far in the course of carrying of continuity, since she was a ers that NANTA is united and Garba, said his team has of the sector. He said that, “out illegal trades and try to engage on our mandate.” member of the immediate past in safe hands under her watch, intercepted 151 smuggled goods of over N802 million worth of in legitimate businesses. Garba stressed that, “It is executives. adding that the watchword under worth over N802 million since goods intercepted, a sum of N98 “We want to reiterate to all noteworthy that the federal “On one hand you are assured her watch would be teamwork. its inception. million worth of smuggled goods Economic saboteurs and their government has made significant of continuity because I was one of “We must admit that while we He also said it also arrested were intercepted within the last accomplices that Joint Border strides to encourage local produc- the outgoing executives of the last have global challenges brought on 23 suspects and repatriated 106 three weeks in March, 2020.” He Operations Drill Sector 3, will tion. Therefore, all members of administration. COVID-19, which by COVID-19. We also do have illegal migrants during the period stated that, “In keeping to this continue to emplace efforts to the populace are encouraged to is currently ravaging the world has some pertinent local challenges under review. promise, the sector initiated new ensure that any items found take advantage of federal govern- become an impediment to reach facing our members and their Speaking with journalists in anti-smuggling strategies which to be prohibited will be seized ment visible effort transforming out physically in the engagement businesses, which we must Ilorin at the weekend, on the have led to remarkable feats. and offenders will be sanctioned the agricultural sector, especially process, but we shall overcome confront and come up with ef- activities of the operation, Mr. “The fight against smuggling accordingly.” He added that, in the area of rice production and the challenge” Akporiaye said. fective strategies to address. In due Garba said the development activities in the North Central axis “Officers and men involved in its efforts towards industrialisation According to her, this is the course, the incoming executives was due to the commitment of will continue to receive a sustained this national assignment have of the economy.” birth of a new beginning as the shall engage and consult with all incoming executive takes over of you as stakeholders in order to under her leadership as the 44th establish and validate our priori- President of NANTA. ties. I will then be articulating “I know there is a huge chal- these priorities with strategies lenge to re-access our reach and on how to move us forward”, physical engagement process in Akporiaye stated. SophosLabs Warns against Cybercrime Emma Okonji advantageous lures that prey on mounting virus fears. It’s easy to Following the outbreak of the see that the attackers behind a COVID-19 currently ravaging new Chloroquine scam are the the world, SophosLabs said same as those behind a recent it is tracking how the use of herbal Viagra scam”. ‘COVID-19’ in domain names, Wisniewski, emphasised that, spam, phishing attacks, and “With global spam volumes malware has skyrocketed, estimated to be in the hundreds thereby creating threat to of billions, for 2-3 per cent of cybersecurity. those to be COVID-19 themed According to SophosLabs, its is significant. current tracking showed that the “Similar to recent testing of volume of “COVID-19” email advertisements and web pages, scams have nearly tripled in the criminals often dip a toe in the past week. water when there is a new or It said attackers were also sensational topic in the news. AGRIC EXPO increasingly impersonating If the new topic proves a more L-R: Representative of Minister of Agriculture/State Coordinator, Federal Ministry of Agric and Rural Development, Lagos, Mrs. Olayinka Akeredolu; the World Health Organisation effective lure than the previous CEO/MD, TAB Group/ Organiser Africa Agri Expo 2020, Mr. Tahir Bari; GMD/CEO, NAHCO Aviance, Mrs. Tokunbo Fagbemi, and Managing Director, (WHO), Centers for Disease scam bait they begin switching Same Duetz Fahr, Mr Marcello Personeni, during the Agri Expo Nigeria 2020, held in Lagos...recently KOLAWOLE ALLI Control and Prevention (CDC) to new lures. of North America and the United “In one of the spam campaigns Nations (UN), as evidenced in we tracked last week, there was the scams it tracked recently. evidence of exactly that. These COVID-19: Paga Introduces Measures to Reduce Cash Handling Speaking on the development, particular criminals had been Sophos Principal Research Sci- using fake shipping and delivery Chinedu Eze for Zero fees. Customers can actions in response to the cases challenges and uncertainty caused entist, Chester Wisniewski, said: emails to convince unsuspecting send money for free if sending of Coronavirus recorded in the by the Coronavirus,” Oviosu said. “Cybercriminals are wasting no victims into opening attachments Following the outbreak of the to anyone using the recipient’s past week and the need to reduce In addition, Paga said it has time in shifting their dirty, tried and infecting their computers coronavirus (COVID-19), Paga phone number or email address handling cash as a way to slow decided to have its employees and true attack campaigns toward with the Kryptik Trojan. has announced measures it has versus a bank account. Addition- the spread of the virus. work remotely and also taken taken to reduce cash handling ally, customers sending money “During this period, we steps to implement social distanc- in the country. to bank accounts also enjoy free understand that people are ing in the few cases where remote NIA, AIO Postpone Paga founder and Group CEO, money transfers for amounts experiencing a range of difficul- work is currently not feasible. Tayo Oviosu said at the weekend below N5,000. ties as they try to minimise the The company said it has a Conference in Lagos that the company has The company also announced risk of exposure. Using mobile team of over 500 employees made adjustments to its fees, its innovative payment collec- money on Paga is the best way based in Nigeria, Ethiopia, Ebere Nwoji with Agency eral of NIA, Mrs. Yetunde Ilori, with the aim to help slow the tions page available to all Paga to transact without needing Mexico, and the United Kingdom. report said the decision to postpone the spread of the virus by reducing customers - JustPaga.me. physical cash. “We made the decision for our conference followed the outbreak cash handling in Nigeria. It explained that all Paga “You can link multiple banks employees to work remotely to The Nigeria Insurers of dreaded Coronavirus disease According to him, Paga has customers are eligible to get a and transact from one place protect them, our communities, Association(NIA) in col- (COVID -19). adjusted its transaction fees for free customised web page they or load cash into the wallet. and do our part to flatten the laboration with the African Ilori, further said the NIA has instore merchant payments and can send out to collect money Your cash is always available curve of spread. During this time, Insurance Organisation (AIO) also suspended all its monthly money transfers. from anyone who owes them. to you anytime, anywhere. our business will continue as has postponed the 47th African technical committee meetings During this time, merchants People paying can pay using We are pleased to support by usual and we have measures Insurance Organisation confer- until further notice and would can save on transaction fees by their bank cards or Paga account. proactively adjusting our fees in place to provide even quality ence and the general assembly encourage members to hold accepting payments with Paga The company is taking these to help Nigerians navigate the service” Oviosu added. earlier scheduled to hold in virtual meetings where necessary. Lagos, between May 31st and She expressed gratitude to June 4th, 2020. all partners who had agreed NBC Calls for Decryption of Local Channels on Pay TVs The annual conference has to sponsor the conference and been rescheduled tentatively expressed hope that in spite of Emma Okonji Corona virus pandemic. ter. Daily broadcast monitoring tion. to between October 3rd and the postponement occasioned by According to the NBC’s direc- reports so far indicated that “Broadcasters are further 7th, 2020. the virus, the association would The National Broadcasting Com- tive issued through a statement, broadcast stations across the mandated to allot, at least, 10 The NIA and AIO said the get greater support during the mission (NBC) has directed that the directive would last for one country have been giving detailed per cent of their daily airtime postponement of the meeting conference in October when it all pay subscription broadcasters month in the first instance. reportage on the campaign for to public enlightenment on was due to the spread of the was expected that the disease in Nigeria such GOTv, DSTV, Further directives on it shall awareness on Corona Virus. the virus, in line with national COVID-19 virus. would have abated. NTA Startimes, FreeTv Platform, be issued by the Commission The statement further said the interest and social responsibil- Similarly, the global Insurance “We thank all the stakeholders among others, to immediately after detailed assessments of Commission, however, expressed ity, as enshrined in the Nigeria Market has adopted various for their support and understand- decrypt all local channels on subsequent development, it dismay that a few broadcasters Broadcasting Code. The Com- measures to respond to the impact ing at this time and wish to assure their bouquet to enable subscrib- added. The NBC had earlier aired unsubstantiated news and mission commends broadcasters of the dreaded COVID-19 which them that Nigeria will still host ers to their services in Nigeria, requested broadcast stations to names of persons purportedly that have remained steadfast and is now a global epidemic. a memorable conference on the access without hindrances, daily ensure timely basic information infected by the virus without displayed professionalism this In Nigeria, the Director –Gen- new date”, she appealed. reports and directives on the and updates on the subject mat- required professional authentica- period,” the statement said. THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ 29

SON Takes Campaign against Substandard Products to Alaba Market Eromosele Abiodun traders that both SON and the their acts are dangerous to lives the electronics market of Alaba countries nationals. nation’s land borders, noting that traders association has decided and property and a drain to is noted for only good quality “Substandard and fake genuine traders and importers In its renewed efforts to fight the to constitute a taskforce that people’s pockets. products. electronic gadgets cause lots of have suffered severely from the influx of fake and substandard would comprise of members of “We must also protect the “This is not impossible to hazards including, electrocution, border closure. products into the country, the the association as well as officials businesses of the genuine import- achieve. It only requires your deaths, injuries, loss of revenue, He assured SON that Standards Organisation of Nigeria of SON, with the task of taking ers and traders by eradicating collective effort, dedications, among others. “We seek your members of the association (SON) has commenced a national regulation closer to the importers substandard products from the patriotism, truthfulness, upright- contribution as worthy stake- would continue to adhere to sensitisation campaign to various and traders. markets and ensure that ness and more importantly, the holders in this fight against stipulated standards even as sectors of stakeholders in the According to Aboloma “We Nigerians get value for the fear of God, “Aboloma said. sub-standard products. he encouraged his colleagues country. want to fight the war from within money spent on electronics,” he He asserted that the engage- We urge you to avoid non- to tilt towards manufacturing Speaking at the taking-off of because you know those that said. The SON boss also said it ment was one of SON’s approach compliant trade, ”he warned. their own products rather than the programme at the Electronics are not complying. We know was the duty of the agency to to fight the war against substan- Speaking earlier, the President importing finished electronic Section of Alaba International that there are genuine and well- make sure that electronic products dard products from within. of International Markets As- products. Market in Lagos State, the Di- meaning importers, manufactur- sold in Nigerian markets are safe The SON boss urged importers sociation (Electronics) IMAE He observed that the theme rector General of SON, Osita ers and traders that are highly to use, especially as the Alaba to approach the agency to enable Alaba International, Paulinus of the event, “Promoting Aboloma stressed the need to committed to complying with international market is regarded them brand their manufactured Ugochukwu called on the Self-Regulation to Eradicate fight the war against fake and the requirements of standards. as the largest electronic market products with their brand-names federal government to address Substandard Electronics from substandard products within “There are also importers and in West Africa. rather than using labels of already the challenge of power supply Nigerian Markets,” showed the country. traders that are not willing to “It is our responsibility also to established foreign brands, and the deplorable access roads the high degree of stakeholders’ Aboloma, who was represented comply with standards. These ensure that electronic products which according to him, such to the Alaba International market. engagement by SON to sanitise by a Director from his office, set of importers and traders are in our markets are safe to use. acts amount to promoting and Ugochukwu also admonished and rid Nigeria of substandard Yahaya Bukar, informed the enemies of the public, because It will be a thing of joy also if creating employment to those the government to reopen the products.

COVID-19: Ecobank Commits N100m to Radio Campaign Ecobank Nigeria said it has and is trending extensively on committed about N100 million #StaySafeNigeria, #StaySafeNaija, to drive its National Radio Cam- #StaySafe tag following massive paign ‘StaySafeNigeria,’ being support from members of the part of its corporate actions to Creative industry essentially on support measures to check the philanthropic basis,” it added. rising spread of the coronavirus. The bank in the statement According to the bank, the thanked the entertainers and campaign which is a call to football stars who have so far action, creating awareness and adopted the campaign as a educating the populace on safety show of commitment and belief measures to adopt against the in the bank’s approach in the dreaded COVID -19, is currently public enlightenment of Nige- running in over 50 radio stations rians, ensuring the message across the six geopolitical zones is taken to every door step, of the country, the Federal Capital especially at the grassroots Territory, Abuja and the Federal for all citizens to imbibe the Radio Corporation of Nigeria ethos of “StaySafeNigeria”. (FRCN) network news. This The bank listed those who GRADUATION CEREMONY amount was in addition to have supported to include L-R: Director, Monitoring & Evaluation, Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Mr. Tunde Adelana; graduate trainee of the the bank’s contribution as a the Legends of Nollywood, Amazon-NCDMB Flaredown project, Mr. Ogbomo Endurance; Group, Chief Executive Officer, Amazon Energy, Mr. Olayinka Oluwatimehin; graduate corporate member of the Bankers Linda Ikeji, Brodashaggi, trainee, Miss. Blessing Amakeme, and General Manager, Capacity Building, NCDMB, Dr. Ama Ikuru, during a graduation ceremony of the trainees Committee and the Nigerian Alex Ekubo, Taooma, Sound under the NOAC Kwale Gas Flaredown project, held in Lagos ...recently KOLAWOLE ALL Private Sector led Coalition to Sultan, Bolanke Austen raise funds against COVID-19, Peter’s, Mr Macaroni, Teni the details of which it stated Oluwo, Dala Oruwari, former would be made public in due African Footballer of the year, Airbus Adapts Wing Production Activity against COVID-19 course. “The campaign mes- Victor Ikpeba, football legends, saging which is in Pidgin, Ibo, Austin Eguavoen, Garba Lawal Chinedu Eze with agency report pause. At the same time, opera- partial operations. As a result of would remain open during this Hausa and Yoruba is also being and Mutiu Adepoju amongst tions in the UK, Germany and the that review, Airbus said it has period and would continue to driven through the social media several others. European aircraft manufacturer, US continued at normal rates. decided to adapt the production ensure wing deliveries to Airbus, said it is supporting efforts Based on the adapted ways activity in the wing plants for the final assembly lines, the globally to tackle the COVID-19 of working which reflect the the next three weeks. receipt and control of mate- crisis. The company announced new health and safety measures, This means that the produc- rials and components from SO&U Group Suspends that it has carried out extensive Airbus said it was continuing tion and corresponding activities the supply chain, building work in coordination with its to evaluate its production flow. for support to production of and installation maintenance, Physical Business Operations social partners to ensure the health In this context, the wing the wing plants in Bremen, critical administrative support and safety of its employees by plants in the UK and in Bremen, Filton and Broughton would and preparation for activity As the incidences of COVID-19 Health Organisations even in our implementing stringent health and Germany, have reviewed the be reduced, with an extended restart. Employees would increase, one of Nigeria’s leading business operations. safety measures, while securing additional completed stock Easter holiday implemented continue to perform activities Integrated Marketing Com- “Following recent development business continuity. Airbus levels developed in the recent at Broughton and Filton and remotely via home working munications Groups, SO&U in the spread of the dreaded partially resumed production and period and the immediate a reduced working week at where their activities are not has announced safety measures virus, we have been constrained assembly work in France and Spain demand from the Final As- Bremen. directly related to the production to protect its staff, clients and to activate our scenario two on March 23, following a four-day sembly Lines as they resume The sites, the company said, activity being adapted. community. The company crisis response option to the has announced the temporary health crisis, which is voluntary suspension of operations at its shutdown of our offices, and Tech Firm Offers Free Online Learning Software Opebi and Ikeja GRA locations remote operations from home thus mandating its employees to by all our staff except those James Emejo in Abuja forestall any case of coronavirus Oglegba said: “Schooling should “The teacher gets performance data activate a remote operation and who must absolutely be in infection among school pupils. not stop with the closure of on each student, thereby helping service mode till further notice. the office. One of the leading technology A statement issued by the Na- schools.” He further stressed that the teacher to identify and bridge According to the Company’s “On Monday, 23rd March, we companies, Techvibes Limited, tional Association of Proprietors schools will be able to access over learning gaps with precision,” he Group Managing Director, Mr. tested our business continuity has offered schools free access of Private Schools (FCT), had 10,000 online teaching videos, said. He said the company is Udeme Ufot, “ It is our collective systems and are confident of to its online learning platform directed that students should question banks and analytics offering its school administration responsibility to help stop the our capability to service our StudyLab 360 to assist schools not be in school from March 23, covering students’ needs up software, Quampus Plus and spread of COVID-19 and in line clients’ needs remotely from cope with the impact of the assuring that lost time would be to S.S.3. award winning online learning with this, the SO&U Group is outside our offices without Covid-19 pandemic. catered for subsequently. He added that in addition to software at no cost to schools to encouraging its employees, disruption.” The FCT administration However, in a statement, the assessment items and explana- help them through the difficult clients and the general public “We shall persevere through recently announced the closure the Managing Director/Chief tory videos, teachers can also times currently confronting the to take precautions necessary this challenge and believe that of all schools in the territory to Executive, Techvibes, Mr. Michael create and send quizzes remotely. economy at large. to safeguard their health and together we shall emerge from it that of others. “As a business, with a deeper sense of purpose” community and team, we hold he added. The firm appealed COVID 19: CBN Disinfects Head Office, Branches firmly to faith and trust that for the understanding and united we will fight and beat the cooperation of all clients and As the federal government, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) followed a Management directive, the virus. COVID-19 scourge. One of such other stakeholders to ensure through the Federal Ministry of has commenced the disinfection which was in line with advisory Okorafor also disclosed that the measures we have immediately the success of the remote work Health and the Nigeria Centre of its head office and 37 branches. from the World Health Organisa- CBN had instructed all Deposit embraced is the global call for mode even as the management for Disease Control (NCDC), Disclosing this in Abuja at the tion (WHO) and the NCDC that Money Banks (DMBs) and other “Social Distancing” amongst team reaffirms their commitment intensifies effort to check the weekend, the Director, Corporate all government establishment financial institutions operating in other advisory measures by to delivering top notch creative spread of the novel Corona Communications Department, should disinfect their offices as Nigeria to take adequate measures both the local and International and communications services. virus pandemic in the country, Isaac Okorafor said the move a preventive measure against to disinfect their offices. 30 THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ

NNPC’s N11bn Rally against COVID-19 Wale Solomon

Nothing exemplifies the harmony and sense of corporate responsibility that now permeates the oil and gas industry as the recent announcement by the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, Mele Kyari, of the industry’s $30 million intervention fund to combat coronavirus. It was an unprecedented corporate empathy in scope, timing and the short time it took to rally the industry behind the national effort to combat the deadly COVID -19 which continues to spread in the country. If this is not the first time the NNPC was acting with such dispatch during a national crisis, it is certainly the first time it mobilised the oil and gas industry for a collective response to the national call. On Friday March 27, the NNPC GMD led a delegation of the Corporation and representatives of oil companies to deliver coronavirus testing kits, a brand-new ambulance, hospital beds and other in-patient support systems to the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital. It was the first day of a four-day deployment plan for a $30 million (N11 billion) donation by Nigeria’s oil industry for the fight against coronavirus. It was an unmatched industry rally behind Nigeria’s effort to stop the spread of the virus and empower the health system to contain outbreak. Spearheaded by the NNPC GMD, the donors comprised major upstream oil and gas producers, indigenous upstream producers as well as service providers and downstream players in Nigeria. Tagged ‘The Oil and Gas Industry Intervention Initiative on COVID-19’, it was an initiative designed to put the country ahead of the pandemic in line with the ongoing federal government’s effort. It was designed as a three-pronged covid-19 intervention initiative which targeted urgent needs in the areas of diagnostic and protective kits, logistics and in-patient support system and delivery of intensive care facilities. The intervention would deliver 40 ambulances, 10,000 test kits, 10 million surgical masks, 20,000 respiratory masks, 1,000 ventilators, 120,000 safety gloves, 3,000 oxygen kits and four diagnostic laboratories. The fund would also provide makeshift intensive care facilities with beds and other equipment in states regarded as the epicenter of the pandemic in Nigeria. The objective is to bring immediate relief to Kyari highly impacted epicentres of the virus where cases continue to rise. The Working Team of the intervention include makeshift ICUs in the six geo-political zones (b)Deployment of logistics and in-patient support For now, Lagos and the Federal Capital Ter- GM Services of NAPIMS, 5 representatives each of the country. The exercise would conclude with system. (c) Delivery of medical infrastructure.” ritory have continued to record more numbers from OPTS, IPPG, COMD, NNPC Medical and the deployment of testing kits and ambulances He said the three thematic support initiatives while cases have also been recorded in Ogun, NNPC Downstream entities. to the remaining 12 states. amount to $30 million (N11 billion) adding that Enugu, Oyo, Osun, Bauchi, Edo and Rivers states. The working team is guided by an execution All the states which got the team’s makeshift “To address the increasing demand for medical To also benefit from the NNPC largesse are plan which kicked-off on Thursday March 26 ICU would take deliveries of all critical hospital services, we are immediately providing medi- densely populated areas of the country with with a strategy meeting between the NNPC equipment and items expected in an intensive cal consumables covering testing kits, medical strong communal transmission of the virus and and its partners. It also involved consultations care unit of any modern hospital. The equip- protective suits and ambulances to the highly NNPC operational catchment areas. between the team and selected states on sites ment donated includes: an oxygen generating impacted areas of the federation.” Each of the 36 states of the country would where makeshift intensive care units would be plant; one brand new ambulance, six NNPC What the intervention has shown, among other also receive at least one retrofitted Toyota Hiace located in the states. operational ambulance vehicles, two ventilators, things, is that NNPC and the oil and gas industry High Roof ambulance, sets of testing kits and This would be followed on the second day patient monitor, hospital beds, bedside cupboards, care about the health and safety of the country, sets of patient support system. It is no doubt by deployment of testing kits and ambulances overtop tables, air conditioners, fully automated its people and its economy. NNPC in particular a timely boost for the country’s health system to Abuja and Lagos. 5-part hematology analyzer and semi-automated has demonstrated capacity for empathy and to be and the effort to curb spread of coronavirus. On the third day, March 28, the team led by chemistry analyzer. proactive when the need arises. The Corporation, As expected, the NNPC GMD is one to ensure Kyari would inaugurate the makeshift ICU at While announcing the intervention fund, the the oil industry along with other sectors, have transparency and faultless execution of a plan. the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital. On NNPC GMD said “Health systems, the world intervened at a time of uncertainties when a virus Thus, a governance structure was put in place the same day, testing kits and ambulances would over, are getting overwhelmed. Countries with poses an existential threat to the world. to supervise all purchases and deliveries. The be deployed to 12 states including all the states stronger health systems are struggling to contain NNPC under Kyari has continued to demonstrate structure is headed by the NNPC GMD, who with covid-19 cases. Sunday, March 29 would the disease. “It is obvious that to fight this result-oriented approaches to challenges in the is the sponsor of the initiative. Other members be the turn of Lagos State to have the makeshift menace, we all have to collaborate to ensure industry and the nation in a way many had of the Steering Committee include the GGM ICU installed and take deliveries of testing kits that Nigeria defeats the virus.” According to thought impossible. We are seeing an uncom- NAPIMS (LEAD), Chairman OPTS, Chairman and ambulances. The team would make similar him, the intervention was aimed at supporting mon commitment to a vibrant, prosperous and IPPG, GGM COMD, DAPMAN Chairman, deliveries in additional 12 states same day. the national healthcare delivery facilities. Kyari transparent industry, and to the nation. Country Chair, Shell Group of Coys, Chairman The intervention would round-off on Monday further said the project covered three key areas, & MD, ExxonMobil Coys and Chairman & MD March 31 with the inauguration of regional namely :(a) Provision of medical consumables. t4PMPNPOXSJUFTGSPN4VSVMFSF -BHPT of Chevron Coys. Keystone Bank Pledges N1bn in Fight against COVID-19 Nume Ekeghe held recently to support the corporate social responsibility the government is making to United Nations Environment pandemic will soon be a Central Bank of Nigeria in its pillar to provide an enabling manage the situation. Finance Initiative working to thing of the past. As part of effort to combat bid to raise funds for the fight environment by improving “The decision to support achieve a sustainable future. “I am very confident that the the coronavirus (COVID-19) out- against coronavirus pandemic the well-being and health of the government’s effort is “At Keystone Bank, we remain current prevailing health chal- break in Nigeria, Keystone Bank through the newly-formed Ni- the communities wherein we consistent with our unshak- firmly committed to our prom- lenge will soon be an episode has announced the donation of gerian Private Sector Coalition operate. able resolve to promote health ise of supporting Nigerians to in the footnote of our history; N1 billion for the purchase of Committee against COVID-19. Olayinka stated: “What we initiatives which is very key thrive and this means for us We have the capable human relief materials, critical care In a statement at the weekend, have is a situation that calls pillar in our corporate social showing up when it matters resources, the will of the part facilities and protective gear to the Acting Managing Director, for an inclusive support for responsibility plans. It is most. For us, this is one of of the government and the contain the spread of the virus. Mr. Olaniran Olayinka, explained humanity. A time that all also crucial in our role as a such moments”. support of every Nigerian to The pledge was made during that the decision to make the hands must be on deck to signatory to the principles of Olayinka expressed end the pandemic at the earliest the Bankers’ Committee meeting pledge was part of the bank’s support the assiduous effort responsible banking by the optimism that the current possible time.” MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 • THISDAY 31 THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ 32

Potential in Green Revolution

Aminat Jegede the other issues highlighted above, as impeding the growth of the sector should be addressed. Introduction Ultimately, market dynamics should be allowed With the global sensitisation on the adverse effect to determine gas prices to ensure its continuous of climate change and the various movements availability. And there should be a transparent to reduce it, more countries are shifting towards and hitch free licensing process for proposed CNG cleaner sources of energy including renewables and outlet investors. natural gas. To tackle the infrastructural challenges Beyond the specifics noted above, it is essential of utilizing natural gas, especially the huge capital that the FGN continues to set clear strategies and outlay necessary for transporting natural gas from policies that are geared towards increasing investment the producing fields to consumers, focus is now in the Nigerian gas sector. It has been previously on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). highlighted by stakeholders that the existing legal In Nigeria, the domestic gas industry is still and tax framework, were written primarily for oil, plagued with several challenges, including lack and thus, do not provide robust technical, tax and of market-driven pricing mechanism and unclear commercial framework for gas as a unique resource. legal framework, which has led to a deficiency Consequently, new policies should be formulated of gas availability, affordability and deliverability. to drive sustainable investment in the sector. For Nonetheless, in recent times, some factories in instance, the implementation of the Nigerian gas the country are switching to CNG, to minimise flare commercialisation program, launched by the energy cost, while contributing to the global efforts FGN, should be pursued with vigor, in order to to reduce global warming. improve gas supply for CNG and other businesses In an interesting development, the federal whose feedstock is gas. government is also mulling the possibility of switching from the conventional premium motor Enhanced Safety Standards/ Regulations spirit (PMS) to CNG, with the aim of making fuel Countries that have adopted the extensive use of cheaper and to reduce the budgetary spend on CNG have put in place high technical and safety PMS subsidy. standards for the development of CNG supply/ Thus, CNG is gaining more popularity in the retail stations. Thus, in Nigeria, existing and new country as an alternative energy source, amongst standards need to be enforced for the design of other uses. Nonetheless, the existing players in CNG stations, the materials required for building the sector continue to clamour for market driven the various components of the CNG fuel system pricing and clear fiscal framework, to attract more installation and maintenance of CNG cylinders investments. It is incontrovertible that businesses and kits. will flourish and enhance economic growth, when Although, CNG has less combustion properties there is adequate return on investment, amongst than other forms of fuels (such as PMS or Liquefied other factors. Investment in CNG is no exception! Petroleum Gas), it is also flammable and needs to CNG- simply methane (CH4) is made by be handled with care and caution. If appropriate compressing natural gas to less than one percent safety measures are not enacted and enforced, CNG of the volume it occupies at standard atmospheric operation badly managed may result in unwarranted pressure. Its combustion produces fewer carbon loss of human and material resources. deposits than other forms of fuels and it can be used in place of gasoline (for cooking and power Possible investment vehicles for CNG generation), diesel fuel and liquified petroleum This has the potential of eliminating start up gas. CNG is usually stored and distributed in hurdles. It also provides such investor the instant spherical and cylindrical containers. access to the existing market and distribution network To use CNG, the combustion engine of auto- of the acquired business. However, extensive due mobiles or other machines (such as generators) diligence, including a tax health check of the business may have to be modified or manufactured to be acquired, should be conducted before the for CNG use, either alone (dedicated) with a acquisition, to forestall unpleasant financial loss. segregated gasoline system, to extend range Sylva (dual fuel), or in conjunction with another fuel Joint Ventures such as diesel (bi-fuel). CNG is eco-friendlier Market Driven Pricing Fiscal incentives – the role of Government Two or more investors can consider entering into and more efficient for engines as it produces Gas projects are generally long term and very Excessive taxation does not encourage investment joint venture arrangements to jointly incur costs far fewer harmful emissions and hydrocarbons. capital intensive. However, the current state of the because it depresses returns on investors’ funds. and bear the risks in setting up a CNG company. Nigerian gas industry has shown that the pricing Investment in CNG project entails huge capital Factors to aid investment in CNG regime is not sufficiently attractive to potential outlay on which business owners seek decent Buying a Franchise A key factor for the survival of a CNG investors, despite the vast opportunities. Industry return within a reasonable period. It is probably Purchasing a franchise also has higher probabilities business is the ease of access to its main raw players have continued to clamor for gas pricing in recognition of this that the government enacted of business success and growth. An investor can material i.e. natural gas (because CNG requires that is based on appropriate commercial terms certain incentives for production and utilisation of use the brand of an already successful CNG busi- higher volume of gas to compress/store the between a willing buyer and a willing seller. Thus, natural gas. For instance, gas income and profit ness to create its own niche in the CNG market. energy equivalent of gasoline or petrol), as to boost gas availability for CNG purposes, a holistic are taxed under the Companies Income Tax Act at Enquiries should however be made to find a good well as access to the market. approach to gas pricing that will accommodate the rate of 30 per cent as against the rate of 85 per franchise that provides opportunities for growth In a country plagued with gas pipeline/ the dynamics for gas and create a headway for cent or 65.75 per cent under the Petroleum Profit and requires less investment to manage. infrastructural deficit, which has also been businesses within the gas value chain to thrive Tax Act (PPTA) for oil production. In addition, identified as one of the impediments to the concurrently is paramount. We are aware that the capital and operational expenditure from the Direct Investment growth of the sector, CNG presents a solu- the federal government of Nigeria is already utilization of associated gas projects that cannot be Investors can also set up their own CNG plants tion as it is transported via virtual pipeline considering a new regulation to address it and separated from those incurred on crude oil, can be and distribution channels. Given that this is highly distribution models that eradicate the need other related matters. However, speed is of the taken against oil income. Downstream operations capital intensive, it is important that proper feasibility for long distance pipeline constructions, with essence. We therefore implore the government to in the sector are also eligible for tax free period, studies on the viability of the proposed business attendant cost savings. The authors have take this as a matter of priority. accelerated capital allowance and tax-free interest model is carried out, to understand the dynamics of therefore highlighted some factors that could on loans (where applicable). the project, projected timelines of expected returns aid new investments in the CNG space under Incidentally, the above incentives appear to have and the risk associated with the project. the following sub-headings: been targeted at the CNG producers themselves and their suppliers of natural gas, but not the end Conclusion Adequate Gas Supply users, particularly, industrial consumers, without Despite the associated costs for converting plants CNG businesses should seek to partner with Gas projects are generally which there would be no market for CNG itself. and engines for CNG use, and the challenges existing gas producers to ensure continuous Thus, it is suggested that similar incentives as faced by Nigeria in enhancing gas utilisation in flow of gas supply for their operation. Al- long term and very capital described above should be extended to industrial the country, it is undisputable that utilization of ternatively, they could explore the possibility intensive. However, users of CNG, to bolster the market and guarantee CNG will be environmentally, economically and of “backward integration” for this purpose. a decent return on investment. For instance, the socially beneficial to the economy and its citizenry. Regular availability of natural gas will lead to the current state of the profit of companies who solely produce CNG Additional investment in the gas sector through increase in the investor traction into the sector Nigerian gas industry has cylinders, and automobile companies that produce CNG or in any of the gas value chain will create and ensure that the much-needed competition cars that run on CNG may be partially or fully jobs and further strengthen the Nigerian economy. required in every industry is achieved. shown that the pricing exempted from tax. Alternatively, such companies This has the potential to save some of the foreign regime is not sufﬁciently could be included in the category of businesses exchange being utilized for fuel importation, put Enhanced Transportation Infrastructure attractive to potential that will pay CIT at concessionary rate of twenty an end to the fuel scarcity occasionally experienced A robust transportation network is necessary percent (20%). in the country and lift people out of poverty. to connect CNG players to both suppliers and investors, despite the vast It is on record that the Department of Petroleum Based on available records, Nigeria is primarily customers in a cost-efficient manner. The deplorable opportunities. Industry Resources (DPR) recently announced a corporate a gas province, with some oil reserves. Thus, if the state of some of the major highways in Nigeria, partnership with an indigenous gas company, for the proven gas reserves of the country are developed may therefore be a deterrent to the growth of players have continued to immediate conversion of PMS consuming vehicles and complimented with a holistic development the sector. In this regard, development of other clamor for gas pricing that to CNG fired ones and for the building of CNG of the entire gas value chain, it will stimulate the modes of transportation (one of the current focus is based on appropriate retail outlets across the country. astronomical growth of the economy. However, of the FGN) – for example, the rail network - may And that a National Gas Expansion Program the achievement of this growth is largely hinged be explored as the inherent benefits of increased commercial terms Committee has been set up to steer the gas sector on the determination of the FGN to encourage investments in CNG far outweighs the cost of the between a willing buyer for optimal performance and better utilisation of and attract local and foreign investment to the infrastructure to the Nigerian economy. and a willing seller Nigeria’s abundant gas resources. Nonetheless, gas sector. THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ 33

Central Banks and Digital Currency

Tao Zhang

This afternoon, we’re going to take up a topic that everybody seems to be talking about these days – namely, central bank digital currency (CBDC). This is a “widely accessible, digital form of fiat money that can be legal tender,” and a recent BIS survey of central banks shows that 80 per cent were exploring CBDC. I’ll start by laying out what I see as some of the main pros and cons of CBDC, as well as their international implications. I’ll say a few words about a few recent pilot experiences with these currencies, and also about some variants and alternatives to CBDCs. Finally, I will close by sharing what the IMF is doing in this area. Digital currencies issued by central banks can bring a number of benefits. First, a more efficient payments system. In some countries, the cost of managing cash can be very high on account of geography, and access to the payments system may not be available to the unbanked, rural, or poorer population. CBDCs can decrease costs and enhance efficiency. Second, enhanced financial inclusion. CBDC may provide a public digital means of payment without requiring individuals to hold a bank account. Third, more stability and lower barriers to entry for new firms in the payments system. In some countries (such as Sweden and China), we observe an increasing concentration of payment systems in the hands of a few, very large companies. In this context, some central banks view having their own digital currency as a means to enhance the resilience of the payments system and increase competition in the sector. Fourth, enhanced monetary policy. Some academic scholars have suggested that by promoting financial inclusion, CBDC can also enhance the transmission of monetary policy. Moreover, to the extent that cash use is made costly, CBDC could be used to charge negative interest rates and thus interfacing with customers, building front-end services to customers but settle in central bank have run or are preparing pilot projects to explore help alleviate the constraint on monetary policy wallets, picking and maintaining technology, money. the feasibility and the implications of CBDC. To transmission due to the “effective lower bound.” monitoring transactions, and being responsible In addition, sCBDC could be less costly do so, they have increased resources allocated to And fifth, a means of countering new digital for AML/CFT issues. Failure to satisfy any of and risky for the central bank. Consider the CBDC and fintech research at the central bank, currencies. A domestically issued digital currency these functions, because of technological glitches, CB not having to run customer due diligence, sometimes in partnership with private sector backed by a trusted government, denominated cyberattacks, or simply human error, could nor being directly responsible for AML/CFT advisors. Several countries are also reviewing in the domestic unit of account, may help limit undermine the central bank’s reputation. compliance. Also, the CB would not be responsible and revising legislation to support CBDC in the the adoption of privately issued currencies (e.g. Policy makers around the world are actively for technological glitches, designing the user event it was to be issued. And they are actively stable coins), which may be difficult to regulate considering the best way to address these issues, interface, or answering customer service lines. studying the potential implications of competing and could pose risks to financial stability and taking into account countries’ own circumstances. However, sCBDC would require additional CBDC designs. Some authorities are also engaging monetary policy transmission. Among all the options, one potential way for oversight on the part of the CB and establishing with the public and their legislatures to discuss Despite the potential benefits, risks from CBDC the central bank to mitigate some of these costs clear criteria to obtain an sCBDC license and the possibility of issuing CBDC. can emerge. Measures need to be taken to mitigate and risks while offering a safe alternative to cash access CB reserves. Some other countries are investigating CBDC, the risks by getting the design of CBDC right. would be to enter into a partnership with the sCBDC also has advantages relative to privately though they are also exploring alternatives. Let me start with the risk of banking-sector private sector to provide a synthetic version of issued stable coins (including global stablecoins). Regarding CBDC, these countries mostly focus disintermediation. Individuals could move their CBDC (sCBDC). The private sector would issue Stablecoins seek to minimize price fluctuations on undertaking analysis and doing some limited, money from deposits at commercial banks to coins fully backed with central bank reserves, by backing their issuance with assets (including hands-on testing of technology. A final group of CBDC holdings. Banks in turn might feel pressed under the supervision of the central bank. globally used fiat currencies) or by managing countries do not see an immediate need to issue to raise deposit rates or access more expensive Advantages relative to full-fledged CBDC their outstanding supply using algorithms. Global CBDC. They are focusing instead on improving (and volatile) wholesale funding, weighing on include preserving comparative advantages, stablecoins are those that could scale rapidly existing payment arrangements and strengthening profitability and possibly leading to more expensive with the private sector to innovate and interface by leveraging existing network of clients for regulation. Some are exploring synthetic CBDC or lower provision of credit to the real economy. with customers and the public sector to regulate other services or goods offered. Being backed and yet others are thinking about other ways Such disintermediation risks could be mitigated and provide settlement services and trust. This by CB reserves and supervised directly by the to improve payment systems (such as “fast with a CBDC that does not bear interest (at least would be a two-tiered system not unlike current CB, sCBDC could be safer than stable coins. payments”) without issuing CBDC at all. in an environment of positive deposit rates), and arrangements whereby banks provide payment All that I’ve said so far relates to the domestic Recently, we’ve seen an increase in central banks’ with limits on CBDC holdings. implications of CBDC, but there are important interest in CBDC following the announcement international repercussions as well, and as you can by Facebook of its Libra initiative. The G7 set up Another issue to consider is so-called imagine, we at the IMF are extremely interested a working group on stable coins that produced “run risk.” in those as well. On the one hand, a CBDC used a report published in October 2019. In times of crisis, bank customers could flee as an international means of exchange could At the IMF, we have been ramping up our from deposits to CBDC, which might be seen In times of crisis, bank improve the efficiency of cross-border payments, research, analysis, and overall thinking on CBDCs, as safer and more liquid. However, credible customers could ﬂee which are currently costly, slow, and opaque. and indeed, on Fintech in general. Together with deposit insurance should continue to dissuade But at the same time, CBDC available across the World Bank, the IMF produced the Bali Fintech runs. Moreover, if a run occurred, the central from deposits to CBDC, borders could increase the probability of currency Agenda, which offers a framework to guide bank would be more easily able to respond to which might be seen as substitution (“dollarization”) in countries with policymakers in thinking about how to regulate banks’ liquidity needs with CBDC. In addition, safer and more liquid. high inflation and volatile exchange rates and Fintech in their jurisdictions. We also routinely in many countries around the world, bank runs therefore reduce the ability of the central bank publish Fintech Notes, Staff Discussion Notes and typically coincide with runs from the currency. However, credible to conduct an independent monetary policy. Working papers on issues related to Fintech and Thus, independent of the existence of local-currency deposit insurance should Moreover, a CBDC used across borders could CBDC, specifically. In January, for instance, we came CBDC, depositors might seek refuge in a foreign also have an impact on capital flow movements, out with a note on “Institutional Arrangements currency. continue to dissuade the effectiveness of capital flow management for Fintech Regulation and Supervision” and Next, there are implications for central bank runs. Moreover, if a run measures, and the international monetary system another on the “Regulation of Crypto-Assets.” balance sheets and credit allocation. In case demand occurred, the central I hope that all this discussion makes it clear And we also collaborate with other international for CBDC is high, the central bank’s balance sheet that the decision to issue CBDC is an incredibly organizations and standard setters, such as the could grow considerably. In addition, the central bank would be more complicated matter, and there are lots of factors to Financial Stability Board (FSB) and Committee bank may need to provide liquidity to banks that easily able to respond to be taken into account before proceeding. Whether on Payments and Market Infrastructure (CPMI). experience rapid and large funding outflow. As the pros outweigh the cons will depend very The Fund is also a member of the G7 Working a result, central banks would take on credit risk banks’ liquidity needs much on individual country circumstances, and Group on Digital Payments. and have to decide how to allocate funds across with CBDC. In addition, there are plenty of international spillovers to This is, as I’ve tried to emphasie, an incredibly banks, opening the door to political interference. consider as well. rich area for policy experimentation and discus- CBDCs also imply costs and risks to the central in many countries Countries differ substantially in the extent sion, and I look forward to hearing your views bank. Offering CBDC could be very costly for around the world, bank to which they are actively exploring digital during the remaining sessions this afternoon. central banks, and it could pose risks to their runs typically coincide currencies and in just how close they might reputations. Offering full-fledged CBDC requires be to issuing such currencies. r Zhang, who is a Deputy Managing Director central banks to be active along several steps of with runs from the Some countries recently have launched pilots at the IMF gave the keynote address at the the payments value chain, potentially including currency to develop experience with CBDC. Some countries London School of Economics, recently 34 THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ

Photo Editor ÌÓÙÎßØÔËÖË IMAGES Email ËÌÓÙÎßØ˛ËÔËÖË̶ÞÒÓÝÎËãÖÓàÏ˛ÍÙ×

L-R: Managing Director, ADASSA Energy Limited, Agatha Obiekwugo; Managing Director/CEO, Nepal Oil and Gas Limited, Ngozi Ekeoma; Group Executive Director, Rainoil Group, Mrs. Godrey Ogbechie; Managing Director, Energy and Infrastructure Finance Investments Ltd, Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani and Managing Director, The main gate of Abuja Central Mosque completely shut down at Friday prayer time to curb the spread of Energy Institute in Nigeria, Yewande Abiose, at the breakfast session to commemorate the international COVID 19 in Abuja...recently PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN women’s day Organized by Women in Energy Network in Lagos...recently PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

R-L: Deputy National Chairman of APC South West Senator Abiola Ajimobi, Lagos State Governor,Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu,Kano State Governor, Alh Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, Mr Dele Alake, APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Dr Junaidu Muhammad,during a courtesy visit to Tinubu at his Bourdillon Residence Ikoyi, Lagos...recently

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu (right), and his Special Adviser on Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya (left) during an inspection of the COVID-19 Emergency Food Response by the Lagos Government, at Minister of State Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ramatu Tijjani, fumigating at Kadobiko market in Gwarimpa the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives premises in Agege...recently Abuja to curb the spread of COVID-19 in Abuja...recently PHOTO: ENOCK REUBEN

R-L: Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, Mr. Hakeem Odumosu; Commander of RRS, Tunji Disu and others going round markets and Stores to ensure compliance with the directives against the spread of COVID 19 The COVID-19 Emergency Food Response, initiated by the Lagos Government, at the Ministry of Agriculture pandemic in Lagos...recently and Cooperatives premises, Agege, inspected by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in Lagos...recently THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ 35

Wuse Market shut down by the oder of the FCT Minister to check the spread of corona virus in Abuja... recently PHOTO: JULIUS ATOI A woman selling hand gloves and mouth cover at lle-Epo market...recently PHOTO: KOLA OLASUPO

L-R: VP, Customer and Dealer Experience, Oluseyi Folaranmi; Director, Corporate Services, Timi Tope Ologunoye; VP, Consumer Business Group, Mayokun Fadeyibi; Dean, School of Transport, Lagos State University, Prof Samuel Odewumi; Faculty Member, School of Transport, Olayiwola Giwa and VP, Trade, Cars45 Mohammed Iyamu at the launch of the Cars45 Middle-Manager Fast Track Programme in Lagos... recently

Some people coming out from a prayer/social gathering venue in Ejigbo LCDA despite the Lagos State Government ban on social gathering of up to 20 person as a preventive measures to curb the spread of Covid-19 This is Oladipo Motor spare market shut down in compliance to Government order on Covid 19 in Mushin, in the state...recently Lagos...recently PHOTO: ETOP UKUTT

L-R: Mr. Power Agwaretoma;Mrs.Helen Obodo; Manager, Research / Communications Strategy, Caritas Communications, Mr. Ejiro Obodo; Evangelist, Rainbow Christian Assembly, Orode Obodo; and his wife, People preventing themselves against the deadly Coronavirus otherwise known as Covid-19, at Oja Oba, Mrs Dougherty Obodo, at the burial ceremony of Deaconess Queen Oharisi, mother of Ejiro Obodo in Kokori Lagos...recently PHOTO: KOLA OLASUPO Inland, Delta State...recently 36 THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ 2020 BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE Polaris Provides 400 Beds, Others in COVID-19 Fight Hamid Ayodeji the tide of the COVID-19 pan- his commitment to the total demic by delivering additional well-being of Nigerians and Polaris Bank said it has given materials to cover the areas of the fight against COVID-19 a boost to government efforts testing, isolation, treatment and noting that, “as new develop- in the fight against coronavirus training. ments emerge, the bank would (Covid-19). The statement quoted the continue to share information To this end, the bank ex- Managing Director/CEO, about safety of its staff and plained in a statement at the Polaris Bank, Tokunbo Abiru, working environment as well as weekend, that it has acquired to have disclosed this in a letter the efficiency of its operations 400 specialised hospital beds, to customers and stakeholders and service to stakeholders. complete with mattresses and of the bank. Polaris Bank had in the accessories. He explained that the bank, wake of the outbreak of CO- The beds according to the working with relevant partners VID 19 activated its Business bank would be handed over and government, remains com- Continuity Plan (BCP) which to the Lagos State Government; mitted to “doing everything ensures that it can maintain its being the state most hit by the possible to keep our environ- operations and enable financial pandemic, the Nigeria Centre ment safe for all”. transactions, even during critical for Disease Control (NCDC) “At Polaris Bank, we will incidents. and other state governments. continue to devote all necessary “The bank had suspended The Bank also announced resources to contribute to the all corporate events, travels, that it would be partnering safety of our esteemed custom- and outdoor activities as well with the Nigeria Coalition ers and our environment as a as enforced social distancing Against COVID-19 (NCAC), whole, while maintaining all of which ensured that all staff who non-governmental organisations the banking services you need have just returned from travels (NGOs), Health Institutions and to stay safe.” outside Nigeria are placed on State Governments in stemming The bank chief also affirmed self-isolation.”

…Stanbic IBTC Runs Skeletal Operations MARKET INDICATORS

As part of the plans to safe- that the Covid-19 was the most platforms. Our multi lingual MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) guard the lives of its staff and serious world health emergency customer service lines are also customers and also prevent the in a century. available to you 24 hours a day, SEPTEMBER 2019 spread of Covid-19, Stanbic IBTC The Stanbic IBTC Holdings seven days a week.” Money Supply (M3) 35,029,779.72 Holdings has announced that Chief Executive said: “As a “While some branches of it has started running skeletal responsible corporate citizen, Stanbic IBTC Bank will be -- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors 7,374,356.91 operations. we will also be playing our shut, customers can still make Money Supply (M2) 27,655,422.82 The Chief Executive, Stanbic own part. Effective immediately, transactions in other. The bank’s IBTC Holdings, Yinka Sanni, said we will be operating skeletal branches which will remain -- Quasi Money 116,533,891.21 the action was necessitated by services in terms of our opera- open are located in Oba Akran, -- Narrow Money (M1) 11,121,531.60 the need to safeguard members tions. Alausa, Akoka, Surulere, Mushin of the public, given the rising “A good number of our and Idumagbo, Lagos State. ---- Currency Outside Banks 1,625,047.69 number of individuals who have workforce will work from “Other Stanbic IBTC Bank tested positive to Covid-19. He home and only critical staff branches that will remain ---- Demand Deposits 9,496,483.91 commended the actions taken by will be physically present at our open in Lagos are situated at Net Foreign Assets (NFA) 13,911,335.83 the government thus far, such premises and branches including Lekki Admiralty, Ikota, Ajose as banning of large gatherings, head office campuses. If you Adeogun, Apapa and Satellite Net Domestic Assets(NDA) 21,118,443.89 closure of schools and certain already haven’t, this is the best Town. -- Net Domestic Credit (NDC) 35,918,179.45 offices, all aimed at managing time to switch to digital. “Selected Stanbic IBTC the spread of the virus. “Our full range of financial Branches will also remain open ---- Credit to Government (Net) 10,452,199.38 He, however, stated that a services can be accessed on our in the South East, South West, 11,007,422.79 lot more needs to be done to various platforms- ATM, Mobile North Central and North West ---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA manage the situation given App, Online Banking and USSD areas of Nigeria,” he added. ---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA) 25,465,980.07

---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS) -14,799,735.56

CRC Credit Bureau Offers Safety Tips --Other Assets Net 7,000,253.07 The Managing Director/CEO, digitalisation, it is imperative team online real time. Reserve Money (Base Money 2,005,600.83 CRC Credit Bureau Limited, that decisions can still be taken “All alternative channels Mr. ‘Tunde Popoola, said his within seconds. of communication e.g. email --Currency in Circulation 4,677,530.81 firm is are deeply concerned “Therefore, with the current addresses and telephone --Banks Reserves 317,121.43 about the impact of COVID-19 realities, we seize this oppor- numbers for further contact ˾ÙßÜÍÏ̋ pandemic on businesses and tunity to once again reassure are also available on the help the economy. you of our commitment to desk platform and our website In a notice to customers, ensure that we deliver products ‘Contact Us’ page for speedy Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) Popoola, said in times of and services that enable, our resolutions. “Direct messages Month March 2018 upheaval such as this, it was stakeholders make informed can also be sent via our social Inter-Bank Call Rate 15.16 imperative to stay calm and decisions that enhance access media handles. For ease of work together to beat the virus to credit for strategic growth reference, kindly click on the Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) as a country and indeed as and continue to deliver value social media icon buttons humanity. “In response to this, to our stakeholders during this below to follow us and leave Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) 14.00 CRC Credit Bureau has further time.” a message. You can also click Treasury Bill Rate 11.84 strengthened current practices According to him, “Our the link in bio to download the to safeguard the health of its support staff are available to mobile app. “Our Application Savings Deposit Rate 4.07 employees, customers and other assist for prompt resolution Programming Interface (API) is stakeholders of inquiries via our help desk also operational 24/7 to enable 1 Month Deposit Rate 8.82 “We understand the impor- platform. This allows you make our partner institutions access tance of the role we play in your requests or chat directly information to ensure uninter- 3 Months Deposit Rate 9.72 credit decision making and with with a member of the support rupted business operations.” 6 Months Deposit Rate 10.93

12 Months Deposit Rate 10.21

S’Africa May Approach IMF for ‘Health Funding’ Prime Lending rate 17.35

South Africa may approach about any facility that we can Moody’s downgraded Maximum Lending Rate 31.55 the International Monetary access for health purposes,” South Africa to junk, citing Fund and World Bank for Mboweni said in an interview persistently weak growth, funding to fight the corona- with the weekly newspaper. fast-rising debt and the ˾ÙØÏÞËÜãÙÖÓÍãËÞÏ̋ͯͱϱ virus that threatens to drag South Africa entered a impact of an unreliable OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT THURSDAY, 26 MARCH 2020 the country’s economy deeper 21-day lockdown on Friday, electricity supply. into recession, Reuters quoted with people restricted to “We take no ideological the country’s Finance Minister their homes and most position in approaching The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $26.04 a barrel on Thursday, Tito Mboweni, to have said in businesses shuttered. The the IMF and World Bank. compared with $26.94 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. the Sunday Times newspaper. country has reported 1,187 They are creating facilities The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan “This morning in a con- cases of coronavirus and for this environment and SA Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zaﬁro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light versation with the (central) now almost certainly faces should also take advantage (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Reserve Bank and the a deep recession. of those facilities in order Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and Treasury I indicated that we On Friday, the country to relieve pressure on the Merey (Venezuela). should proceed and speak to lost its last investment- fiscus,” Mboweni said in SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna the IMF and the World Bank grade credit rating when the interview. THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ 37 MARKET NEWS Sterling Bank Grows Profit After Tax by 15% to N10.6bn Goddy Egene Chief Executive Officerin loans to its retail and continues to grow its retail & Suleiman said the bank to the bank’s transactional (CEO) of Sterling Bank Plc, consumer segment with its consumer base, resulting in grew its deposit base by revenue. Also, the bank has Sterling Bank Plc has an- Abubakar Suleiman, said the loan-to-deposit ratio (LDR) a 110 bps drop in the cost of over N130 billion in deposits continued to see traction in nounced its audited results for bank recorded an increase above the regulatory limit all funds and consequently, a 130 representing over 75 per cent machine supported transac- the year ended December 31, in gross earnings, driven year round. bps increase in net interest growth from its 2018 perfor- tions, driven by the adoption 2019, showing higher top and majorly by growth in fees Abubakar explained that margin,” he said. mance of about N75billion, of its digital channels. As a bottom lines. Gross earnings and commissions by 24.3 the bank’s digital lending According to the CEO, the and shareholders’ funds grew direct result, Sterling’s NIBBS stood at N150.2 billion, up per cent, despite a steady product continued to set the bank’s cost-to-income ratio by 22.2 per cent at the end Instant Payments (NIP) from N148.7 billion in 2018. loan base – as it continues trend with more than N45 remained relatively flat year- of the year. transaction volume grew Profit after tax (PAT) rose from to diversify into key sectors billion disbursed to more on-year, even as operating He also noted that invest- by 78 percent compared to N9.2 billion to N10.6 billion of focus - and a decline in than 50,000 customers. expenses grew on the back ments in technology have the previous year, faster than in 2019, showing an increase trading income. “Also, interest expense de- of staff salaries and wages also allowed the bank to the industry growth while of 15 per cent. According to him, in 2019, clined by 10.9 per cent driven and spend on technology continuously record steady recording the fastest growth Commenting on the the bank delivered more by a 19.4 per cent increase in infrastructure as well as growth in the instant pay- in Fees & Commission income financial performance, the than 200 per cent increase low-cost deposits as the bank digital platforms. ments market contributing in comparison with its peers.

PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED AS OF 26/03/2020

MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED PRICE TRADED ( N ) PRICE TRADED ( N ) 38 MONDAY, MARCH 30, 2020 ˾THISDAY MARKET NEWS NASCON Allied Industries Posts N27bn Revenue, N3bn Profit before Tax Goddy Egene Cost of sale jumped from N17.989 to N2.7 billion from N6.5 billion, the people. that the location of the its plant through constant engagement and billion to N21.647 billion, bringing while the company ended with The Managing Director, the community will add flavour consultations on issues. NASCON Allied Industries Plc, a the gross profit from N7.781 billion profit after tax of N1.845 billion, NASCON, Mr. Paul Farrer, who and taste to their activities as these Chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun member of Dangote Group, has in 2018 to N5.840 billion in 2019. compared with N4.42 billion in 2018. was represented by the Chief are products used every day in Local Government Area, Mr. recorded a revenue of N27.487 Administrative expenses rose from NASCON recently said its new Financial Officer, Mrs. Aderemi families. Abdulfatai Ayoola had described billion for the year ended December N1.868 billion to N2.044 billion, multi-billion plant was set to take Saka, . He urged the community to the new plant as a huge blessing 31, 2019, showing an increase of 6.9 while financing cost stood at N223 off, assuring the host community According to him, the company see NASCON as a partner in to the community which he said per cent compared with N25.769 million. in Apapa of economic development produces family-oriented products progress and ensure that the would boost economic activities billion posted in 2018. However, profit before tax dipped and employment opportunities for such as salt and seasonings, noting relationship is nurtured for growth within the environs. 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 26- NAV: Is value per share of the real estate shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the Mar-2020, 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 GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 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 GDL Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Equity Fund 113.35 116.99 -22.63% INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 6.50% Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 Nigeria International Debt Fund 294.32 294.32 -5.81% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD [email protected] Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.42% Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 Vantage Balanced Fund 2.05 2.09 -6.33% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 10.87% ACAP Canary Growth Fund 0.86 8,686.00 514463.58% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 136.48 136.85 -4.89% ACAP Income Funds 0.76 0.76 34.40% LOTUS CAPITAL LTD ﬁ[email protected] AIICO CAPITAL LTD [email protected] Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.13 1.15 -3.12% AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.07% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,128.36 1,128.36 2.70% AIICO Balanced Fund 2.46 2.51 -0.24% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 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 Anchoria Money Market N/A N/A N/A Meristem Equity Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Anchoria Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Meristem Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Anchoria Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Balanced Fund 1.33 1.35 8.99% ARM Aggressive Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.31 12.34 8.87% ARM Discovery Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Ethical Fund N/A N/A N/A PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 6.00% ARM Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A PACAM Equity Fund 0.91 0.91 AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED [email protected] PACAM EuroBond Fund 85.12 87.11 Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 SCM CAPITAL LIMITED [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 86.41 87.01 -10.07% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 6.12% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED [email protected] SCM Capital Frontier Fund 108.88 110.76 -11.16% Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 CEAT Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.03 1.03 2.68% Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 0.07 0.05 7.00% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Paramount Equity Fund 9.65 10.04 -22.05% Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 2,521.35 2,532.80 -5.29% Women's Investment Fund 104.32 105.15 -5.56% Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 210.33 210.33 1.60% CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 0.88 0.89 -13.48% Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 273.87 273.95 1.85% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 154.92 156.64 -13.59% Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.33% Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.53% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 92.36 92.74 Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 7,674.15 7,756.30 -13.44% Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 99.17 99.65 Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.16 1.16 1.36% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 118.18 118.18 0.00% CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT [email protected] UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 4.84% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coronation Balanced Fund 0.81 0.82 -12.27% United Capital Balanced Fund 1.07 1.09 -10.75% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.31 1.31 -1.05% United Capital Bond Fund 1.77 1.77 2.21% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] United Capital Equity Fund 0.59 0.61 -16.28% Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.22% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Eurobond Fund 113.52 113.52 1.49% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 5.87% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.04 1.04 -4.85% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 5.24% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD [email protected] EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,186.02 1,189.76 2.14% Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Equity Fund 9.01 9.11 -12.36% FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,294.68 1,296.32 0.28% Zenith Ethical Fund 10.78 10.87 -7.29% FBN Balanced Fund 129.20 130.07 -12.00% Zenith Income Fund 23.25 23.25 4.56% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.19% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 4.73% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional 111.78 112.61 -6.26% REITS FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 112.36 113.19 -6.23% Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn FBN Nigeria Smart Beta Equity Fund 101.31 102.48 -22.15% FSDH UPDC Real Estate Investment Fund 3.20 -66.85% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] SFS Skye Shelter Fund 120.83 1.45% Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Union Homes REIT 52.49 0.85% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.32% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Debt Fund 3.72 3.72 1.67% Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund 7.17 7.27 -17.58% Legacy Equity Fund 0.94 0.95 -17.05% SIAML Pension ETF 40 74.53 76.10 -19.41% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.09 1.09 1.05% Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund 56.31 57.35 -23.63% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Coral Growth Fund 2,819.85 2,848.62 -5.48% Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund N/A N/A N/A Coral Income Fund 3,139.44 3,139.44 14.53% Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund N/A N/A N/A FSDH Treasury Bills Fund 100.00 100.00 6.39% Vetiva Grifﬁn 30 Exchange Traded Fund N/A N/A N/A GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.26% Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn Nigeria Entertainment Fund 114.98 115.72 5.79% Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund 108.69 17.60% 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. MONDAY, ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͸˾THISDAY 39 PERSPECTIVE COVID-19: It's Matter of Life and Death, Says Buhari ellow Nigerians. toll of deaths in Italy, France and Spain. From the first signs that However, we must all see this as our Coronavirus, or COVID-19 was national and patriotic duty to control and turning into an epidemic and contain the spread of this virus. I will was officially declared a world- therefore ask all of us affected by this wideF emergency, the Federal Government order to put aside our personal comfort started planning preventive, containment to safeguard ourselves and fellow human and curative measures in the event the beings. This common enemy can only be disease hits Nigeria. controlled if we all come together and obey The whole instruments of government scientific and medical advice. are now mobilised to confront what has As we remain ready to enforce these now become both a health emergency and measures, we should see this as our individual an economic crisis. contribution in the war against COVID-19. Nigeria, unfortunately, confirmed its first Many other countries have taken far stricter case on 27th February 2020. Since then, we measures in a bid to control the spread of have seen the number of confirmed cases the virus with positive results. rise slowly. For residents of satellite and commuter By the morning of March 29th, 2020, the towns and communities around Lagos total confirmed cases within Nigeria had and Abuja whose livelihoods will surely risen to 97. be affected by some of these restrictive Regrettably, we also had our first fatality, measures, we shall deploy relief materials a former employee of PPMC, who died on to ease their pains in the coming weeks. 23rd March 2020. Our thoughts and prayers Furthermore, although schools are are with his family in this very difficult closed, I have instructed the Ministry of time. We also pray for quick recovery for Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management those infected and undergoing treatment. and Social Development to work with State As of today, COVID-19 has no cure. Governments in developing a strategy on Scientists around the world are working how to sustain the school feeding program very hard to develop a vaccine. during this period without compromising We are in touch with these institutions as our social distancing policies. The Minister they work towards a solution that will be will be contacting the affected States and certified by international and local medical agree on detailed next steps. authorities within the shortest possible time. Furthermore, I have directed that a For now, the best and most efficient way three month repayment moratorium for all to avoid getting infected is through regular TraderMoni, MarketMoni and FarmerMoni hygienic and sanitary practices as well as loans be implemented with immediate effect. social distancing. I have also directed that a similar As individuals, we remain the greatest moratorium be given to all Federal weapon to fight this pandemic. By washing Government funded loans issued by the our hands regularly with clean water and Bank of Industry, Bank of Agriculture and soap, disinfecting frequently used surfaces the Nigeria Export Import Bank. and areas, coughing into a tissue or elbow For on-lending facilities using capital and strictly adhering to infection prevention from international and multilateral control measures in health facilities, we can development partners, I have directed contain this virus. Buhari our development financial institutions to Since the outbreak was reported in China, engage these development partners and our Government has been monitoring the intervention of fifteen billion Naira (N15b) offices within these locations should be fully negotiate concessions to ease the pains of situation closely and studying the various to support the national response as we fight closed during this period. the borrowers. responses adopted by other countries. to contain and control the spread. The Governors of Lagos and Ogun States For the most vulnerable in our society, Indeed, the Director General of the We also created a Presidential Task Force as well as the Minister of the FCT have been I have directed that the conditional cash Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) (PTF) to develop a workable National notified. Furthermore, heads of security and transfers for the next two months be paid was one of ten global health leaders invited Response Strategy that is being reviewed intelligence agencies have also been briefed. immediately. Our Internally displaced by the World Health Organisation to visit on a daily basis as the requirements change. We will use this containment period to persons will also receive two months of China and understudy their response This strategy takes international best practices identify, trace and isolate all individuals that food rations in the coming weeks. approach. I am personally very proud but adopts them to suit our unique local have come into contact with confirmed cases. We also call on all Nigerians to take of Dr Ihekweazu for doing this on behalf circumstances. We will ensure the treatment of confirmed personal responsibility to support those who of all Nigerians. Our goal is to ensure all States have the cases while restricting further spread to are vulnerable within their communities, Since his return, the NCDC has been right support and manpower to respond other States. helping them with whatever they may need. implementing numerous strategies and immediately. This order does not apply to hospitals As we all pray for the best possible programs in Nigeria to ensure that the So far, in Lagos and Abuja, we have and all related medical establishments as outcome, we shall continue planning for adverse impact of this virus on our country recruited hundreds of adhoc staff to man well as organizations in health care related all eventualities. is minimized. We ask all Nigerians to support our call centers and support our tracing manufacturing and distribution. This is why I directed that all Federal the work the Federal Ministry of Health and and testing efforts. Furthermore, commercial establishments Government Stadiums, Pilgrims camps and NCDC are doing, led by the Presidential I also requested, through the Nigeria such as; other facilities be converted to isolation Task Force. Governors Forum, for all State Governments a. food processing, distribution and centers and makeshift hospitals. Although we have adopted strategies used to nominate Doctors and Nurses who will retail companies; My fellow Nigerians, as a Government, globally, our implementation programs have be trained by the NCDC and Lagos State b. petroleum distribution and retail we will avail all necessary resources to been tailored to reflect our local realities. Government on tactical and operational entities, support the response and recovery. We In Nigeria, we are taking a two step response to the virus in case it spreads to c. power generation, transmission and remain committed to do whatever it takes approach. other states. distribution companies; and to confront COVID-19 in our country. First, to protect the lives of our fellow This training will also include medical d. private security companies are also We are very grateful to see the emerging Nigerians and residents living here and representatives from our armed forces, exempted. support of the private sector and individuals second, to preserve the livelihoods of workers paramilitary and security and intelligence Although these establishments are to the response as well as our development and business owners to ensure their families agencies. exempted, access will be restricted and partners. get through this very difficult time in dignity As a nation, our response must be guided, monitored. At this point, I will ask that all contributions and with hope and peace of mind. systematic and professional. There is a Workers in telecommunication companies, and donations be coordinated and centralized To date, we have introduced healthcare need for consistency across the nation. broadcasters, print and electronic media staff to ensure efficient and impactful spending. measures, border security, fiscal and monetary All inconsistencies in policy guidelines who can prove they are unable to work The Presidential Task Force remains the policies in our response. We shall continue between Federal and State agencies will from home are also exempted. central coordinating body on the COVID-19 to do so as the situation unfolds. be eliminated. All seaports in Lagos shall remain response. Some of these measures will surely cause As I mentioned earlier, as at this morning operational in accordance with the guidelines I want to assure you all that Government major inconveniences to many citizens. But we had 97 confirmed cases. Majority of these I issued earlier. Vehicles and drivers Ministries, Departments and Agencies with these are sacrifices we should all be willing are in Lagos and Abuja. All the confirmed conveying essential cargoes from these a role to play in the outbreak response are and ready to make for the greater good of cases are getting the necessary medical care. Ports to other parts of the country will be working hard to bring this virus under our country. Our agencies are currently working hard screened thoroughly before departure by control. In Nigeria’s fight against COVID-19, to identify cases and people these patients the Ports Health Authority. Every nation in the world is challenged there is no such thing as an overreaction have been in contact with. Furthermore, all vehicles conveying food at this time. But we have seen countries or an under reaction. It is all about the The few confirmed cases outside Lagos and other essential humanitarian items into where citizens have come together to reduce right reaction by the right agencies and and Abuja are linked to persons who have these locations from other parts of the country the spread of the virus. trained experts. travelled from these centres. will also be screened thoroughly before they I will therefore implore you again to strictly Accordingly, as a Government, we will We are therefore working to ensure such are allowed to enter these restricted areas. comply with the guidelines issued and also continue to rely on guidance of our medical inter state and intercity movements are Accordingly, the Hon. Minister of Health is do your bit to support Government and professionals and experts at the Ministry of restricted to prevent further spread. hereby directed to redeploy all Port Health the most vulnerable in your communities. Health, NCDC and other relevant agencies Based on the advice of the Federal Ministry Authority employees previously stationed I will take this opportunity to thank all through this difficult time. of Health and the NCDC, I am directing in the Lagos and Abuja Airports to key our public health workforce, health care I therefore urge all citizens to adhere to the cessation of all movements in Lagos roads that serve as entry and exit points workers, port health authorities and other their guidelines as they are released from and the FCT for an initial period of 14 days to these restricted zones. essential staff on the frontlines of the response time to time. with effect from 11pm on Monday, 30th Movements of all passenger aircraft, both for their dedication and commitment. You As we are all aware, Lagos and Abuja March 2020. This restriction will also apply commercial and private jets, are hereby are true heroes. have the majority of confirmed cases in to Ogun State due to its close proximity suspended. Special permits will be issued I thank you all for listening. May God Nigeria. Our focus therefore remains to to Lagos and the high traffic between the on a needs basis. continue to bless and protect us all. urgently and drastically contain these cases, two States. We are fully aware that such measures and to support other states and regions in All citizens in these areas are to stay in will cause much hardship and inconvenience r'VMMUFYUPG1SFTJEFOU.VIBNNBEV#VIBSJhT the best way we can. their homes. Travel to or from other states to many citizens. But this is a matter of life BEESFTT PO UIF $07*% QBOEFNJD PO This is why we provided an initial should be postponed. All businesses and and death, if we look at the dreadful daily 4VOEBZ ."3$) 40 THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi CITYSTRINGS ×ËÓÖÍÒÓÏ×ÏÖÓÏ˛ÏäÏÙÌÓ̶ÞÒÓÝÎËãÖÓàÏ˛ÍÙ×˜͙͔͙͚͚͓͖͑͑͑͒ Agonising over Conﬁscation of Farmlands Igbawase Ukumba writes that inhabitants of Akoh village in Nasarawa State are in agony following the alleged confiscation of their farmlands for a sugar refinery

A tatched house pulled down One of the demolished structures

t all began in June, 2019 when the inhabitants privies or howsoever from further violating the of Akoh village in Awe Local Government applicants' fundamental right or freedom from Area of Nasarawa State had gone to work compulsory acquisition of their private property, on their farms. The women had run to trucks and a detachment of military officers, them that people were allegedly burning ploughing through save by due process of the Itheir houses behind. Consequently, when the law and prompt payment of compensation”. farmers looked to the direction of their settlement, "An award of N100 million special damages behold, a thick smoke emanated and they quickly against the first respondent, been the estimated abandoned work and rushed home to ascertain value of the applicants' houses destroyed by the situation. the respondent. An award of N1 billion general Speaking to THISDAY, youth leader of the and aggravated or exemplary damages against village, Mr. Abiggy Moses, narrated that when all the respondents jointly or severally, for the they reached home from their farms, they saw destruction of the applicants' immovable properties a group of youths burning their houses. and for the untold hardship and inconvenience "It was then that we enquired to know what suffered by the applicants as a result of the was their motive of setting our abode on fire as purported acquisition, unlawful taken-over and they responded that we had earlier said that we wanton destruction of their properties by the don't belong to the domain of Tunga Chiefdom; respondents," the originating motion on notice therefore as from that day, we should leave the of the applicants read. area." Speaking to journalists shortly after further "When we sought to know what was the hearing on the case was adjourned by Justice issue that warranted no dialogue but burning Akoh village youths Suleiman Dikko, counsel to the applicants, OG of our houses, they responded that we should Akaaka said the taking over of the applicant’s leave our settlement. There and then, they village head, Zaki Mshia'an Alyebo said when Others also joined in the suit were the governor farmlands by the sugar refinery was felt as started attacking us with sticks. In the process, he was working on his farm on that fateful day, of Nasarawa State, the Sarkin Tunga and the an infringement of the fundamental rights, in they called military men who came and started he suddenly saw a thick smoke engulfed their Attorney General of Nasarawa State as second, collaboration with the other parties. shooting in the air. Thereafter, the military men village and rushing there, he saw youths from third and fourth respondents respectively. He said: "We believe that due process was not ordered us to line up and marched to where a neighbouring community in their numbers In an originating motion on notice, the applicants followed and so we are challenging that under they were by the road side." beating his subjects. “It was at that point that are praying the court for the following reliefs: "A fundamental human right enforcement rule. The The village youth leader continued that after military men arrived and joined the said youths declaration that the forceful take-over of land, matter came up but issues were joined because marching to the military men, he sought to know in beating me and my subjects thereafter bundling houses and economic trees at Akoh village on the other parties have just filed in their processes from the head of the military men if it was ideal us to their base in Tunga town”. September 10, 2018 and thereafter, for establishment and one has not even entered appearance. So to sack the inhabitants of the village from their The village head said: "The reason advanced of sugar refinery was not by the due process until issues are joined before the matter will go abode on the excuse that they don't belong to by the intruders was that we belong to Tunga prescribed by the Land Use Act, 1978, nor upon into hearing," Akaaka said. Tunga Chiefdom after they have lived in Akoh Chiefdom. But I told them that we don't belong to prompt payment of compensation and therefore However, counsel to the first respondent, MA for over 200 years under Awe Chiefdom. Tunga Chiefdom, rather to Kaffi Moi Chiefdom. arbitrary, unconstitutional and fragrant abuse of Maikamari, declined commment when journalists He continued: "I explained to the military that I then accompanied the paramount ruler of Kaffi the applicants fundamental right. approached him on the ground that he was not throughout our living in our community, our Moi to report the development to the authorities "A declaration that the purported revocation permitted by his principal to speak with journalists. parents never told us that we belong to Tunga concerned in Awe." and acquisition of the applicants right of oc- But the Nasarawa State commissioner for Chiefdom. If it was a new creation, we thought "However, on returning back to our abode, I cupancy by the second respondent over their Justice, Abdulkarim Kana, when speaking on that it is the government that has the power to discovered that all buildings, economic trees were land situated at Akoh village for establishment of the matter separately said the sugar refinery inform us about the new development." pulled down to rubbles leaving an empty space first respondent (Dangote Sugar Refinery) is not factory did not forcefully acquire land in Awe "However, my statement did not go down for us, hence we had no shelter. At the moment, in the manner nor for the purposes prescribed Local Government Area and Azara Development well with the military men hence they bundled we are homeless as our buildings, beddings, by the Land Use Act, 1978." Area of the state for its sugar project. He noted us up into their vehicle and took us to their household utensils and economic trees are all The applicants were also seeking a “declaration that it was the Nasarawa State government that superior officer in Tunga town who in turn gone as a result of the invasion. that the invasion of their farmlands in June, 2019 acquire the land after mutual understanding with interrogated us if we were compensated for the "Being farmers, we have nowhere to go. by the first respondent, with heavy trucks and a the communities. land. We replied that nobody compensated us. However if the invaders have an alternative detachment of military officers, ploughing through He said: "We the people of Nasarawa State The military superior officer told us that it was settlement for us where we can farm to get the farms, surveying and planting beacons therein, under the former administration of Umaru Tanko reported that we were compensated but refused food and generate revenue for our day to day and destroying the applicants' food crops and Al-Makura brought the sugar refinery to the to vacate from the said land." economic demands, let them offer it to us as economic trees without notice of acquisition nor state to invest. The state government provided "It was when the superior officer discovered we have nowhere to go." prompt payment of compensation was illegal, the land for him and did not forcefully take the that we were not compensated as being claimed Nevertheless, in a bid by the Akoh farmers to unconstitutional and blatant infringement of the land from anybody." in some quarters that he ordered us to get up get redress from the invasion of their settlement, applicants' fundamental right enshrined in section Kana maintained that the communities in from the ground that we were forced to sit on the farmers resorted to litigation by dragging the 44 (1) (a) of the 1999 constitution as amended”. Awe and Azara voluntarily donated the lands and consequently directed that food be served sugar factory to a Nasarawa State High Court The applicants also “sought for a relief of to the state government for the purpose of the to us," Moses narrated. over alleged forceful take-over of their farmlands an order of perpetual injunction restraining all project that would bring job opportunity to the Corroborating the youth leader, the Akoh for establishment of a sugar refinery. the respondents either by themselves, agents, teeming youths in the state. THISDAY ˾ ͱͮ˜ͰͮͰͮ 41 CRIME&SECURITY Save Me From Miscreants, Octogenarian Widow Begs AIG Mary Nnah

widow, Alhaja Alimot Asake Kifuli, has alleged that her life, that of her grandchildren and tenants are in great danger following the activities of some streetA miscreants led by one Ogun Jelili Ajulo living in Makoko area of Yaba, Lagos. Narrating her ordeal in the hands of the miscreants, Alhaja Kufili said her expanse property, located at 56/62, Church Street, Makoko, Yaba, has been turned to Indian Hemp joint by some miscreants living in Olulu street, Makoko. In a petition signed by A.R Fatoki & Associates and addressed to the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Zone 2, Lagos, Kifuli alleged that her travails in the hand of Ogun Jelili Ajulo, and Afeez Orebeka, Kazeem Adekanbi, Lola Omo Ilaje, Akumalu, aka Omo Ibo and Babatunde Ajumobi, began sometime in January, 2020 when she complained about their activities on her property. “I was admitted into the hospital for an ailment and I was discharged on January 9, 2020 and was recuperating at home Alhaja Kuﬁli when I noticed Ogun Jelili Ajulo, and his gang converged on my veranda smoking again.” Police Station, Yaba, but the police are yet the taken of the statement of our client Indian hemp. According to her, initial attempts made to take any decisive action on the matter. went to effect the arrest of the culprits. “When I objected, pointing out my by the assailant’s father to desist from “The most perplexing aspect of this “Strangely, upon seeing him, they could fragile health condition, they descended attacking her was rebuffed by Ogun Jelili, issue is that this matter through our letter not arrest him, claiming some politician on me, not minding my advanced age, while one Mrs. Doyin Abejoye, a tenant dated January 13, 2020 was reported to has instructed them not to arrest Ogun and tore my cloth and pushed me to the in her house who tried to intervene was the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Jelili Ajule and his accomplices,” the ground threatening to rape me if I raise also assaulted. Police Command. petition reads. any objection again. “My property was vandalised with “The command upon receiving our letter Kifuli, who is over 80 years old, prayed “It took the intervention of Ogun Jelili’s the windows broken, and some shops referred the matter to the Area C Police that the AIG should use his good office to wife and other people in the area before destroyed.” Command, Surulere for investigation. help save her life from these miscreants, he left me alone, but threatened to come In the petition, her lawyers claimed that “The Officer of the Area C Police C who on daily basis have continued to back and finish me off if I say anything the matter was reported at the Adekunle led by one Bukky contacted us and upon threaten and harassing her. Experts Recommend Early Education against Child Rape, Drug Abuse Rebecca Ejifoma media. The National Assembly should too.” forum was a collaboration among the have some regulations set up to ensure Decrying the lingering cases of child UI Research Foundation, UNICEF and hile cases of rape, adoles- they promulgate laws to protect these marriage and pregnancy, the professor NIMR organised by the Special Thematic cent pregnancies and drug children. The fines given don't have acknowledged that they were high fac- Working Group on Maternal, Neonatal, abuse continue to hit the much impact,” she said. tors that affect girls from attaining their Children and Women Health, was aimed dailies, medical experts The expert further continued that if a educational right, which is Goal 4 of at informing adolescents. have recommended early perpetrator was made to serve 10 years the 2030 Agenda for SDGs of the UN. “Adolescence is a formative period for Weducation as balm to the menace with for raping a child then it would be a Oduwole, however, noted: “adolescent these children. It is a period when they severe penalty deterrent for perpetrators. deterrent to others. pregnancy is high risk for the mother are exposed to a lot of risks, where they This was made known at a one-day “For instance, it is not just to say pay and child because these are the things get some freedom at school and they symposium and stakeholders' forum N20,000, you must ensure that the girl that disrupt a child from attaining that don’t know how to use it,” he expressed. on the theme, Adolescent Health and child you have raped goes to school and educational right.” The DG reminded the government, Education: Meeting the Right of the you pay for that child's education to any She divulged that approximately 3.9 parents and their religious circles of their Adolescent Child in Nigeria, held at the level she wants to. I'm sure when they million girls undergo unsafe abortions responsibilities to educating adolescents Nigerian Institute of Medical Research promulgate such penalty, a lot of men and half of the pregnancies in among girls on their rights. (NIMR) in Lagos. would think twice before doing that.” aged 15 and 19 in developing regions “They are supposed to know about The Consultant of Paediatrics Endo- Oduwole, who is also a Professor at are estimated to be unwanted. their rights from the government, parents crinology and Adolescent Education at the College of Medicine, University of Her words: “Such actions usually expose and their religious circles so that they the Lagos University Teaching Hospital Lagos, suggested that children be given the girls to infections and they become can have a voice in decisions made on (LUTH), Prof. Abiola Oduwole, lent her adequate information early in life. vulnerable because they had missed the their behalves,’’ he said. voice to the government for adolescents, Her words: “The girl-child should be information they should have got while Salako also urged parents and teachers who are persons between childhood and exposed to education. Lack of information in school.” to always discuss and listen to these adulthood. is rampant. They need to be educated Speaking also, the Director-General young children to prepare them for “We have girls being exposed on social about drug abuse and its consequences, NIMR, Prof. Babatunde Salako, said the eventualities and the future. NUJ, PDP Chieftain Laud Okowa, Others On South-south Security Outfit Sylvester Idowu In Warri its Chairman, Comrade Mike Ikeogwu the South-south governors forum's for a climate change workshop, Onue- and Secretary, Churchill Oyowe, noted chairman, had last Thursday, announced soke maintained that the South-south he Nigeria Union of Journalists that the action stance was an indication that he and his colleagues, who met governors move was very significant (NUJ) Delta State Council that the governors have listening ears in Asaba, agreed that there was need in saving lives and properties in the has described the proposed and the will power to respond to the for a regional security outfit to combat region. establishment of a security needs of their people. crimes in the region. The meeting was He noted that when the security outfit by the South-south The union recalled the communique attended by governors of Edo, Bayelsa, outfit comes into existence, it will go Tgovernors as a right step in safeguard- of the NUJ, South-south Zone at Rivers and Akwa Ibom states. a long way in resolving the issue of ing the people of the geopolitical zone its last meeting held in Uyo, Akwa Onuesoke, in his reaction to the herdsmen menace, kidnapping, armed from internal and external attacks by Ibom state in which it called for the resolution of the governors, commended robbery and assassinations amongst criminally minded elements. establishment of a regional security Okowa for leading the pack of South others in the region. Also, a former governorship aspirant outfit and thanked the governors for South governors to initiate the move "Okowa's idea of bringing South- on the platform of Peoples Democratic responding swiftly. to set up the regional security outfit south governors together to set up a Party (PDP) in the state, Chief Sunny The NUJ Delta state council noted that like Amotekun of the South-west to regional security outfit is timely. It is Onuesoke commended the state Gover- the response of the governors would go compliment the efforts of the police a right peg in the right hole. It is the nor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa for being down well with most stakeholders in and other security agencies in the task best measures to get rid of insecurity at the forefront in the initiation to the geopolitical zone observing that the of policing the region and reducing challenges emanating from nefarious set up the regional security outfit to security challenges facing the country crimes to the barest minimum. activities of herdsmen thriving in the combat crime in the region. were also rife in the South South Speaking to journalists at Asaba absence of joint coordination of security The NUJ, in a statement signed by Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who is Airport while on his way to Abuja outfit for the south south", he added. 42 MONDAYMARCH 30, 2020 ˾THISDAY INTERNATIONAL Spain Records 838 COVID-19 Deaths in 24 Hours Spain confirmed another death toll has been rising daily. economic activities must stay 838 deaths in 24 hours from However, officials have at home for two weeks,” Prime coronavirus on Sunday, a new pointed to a slower growth rate Minister Pedro Sanchez said. daily record bringing the total for both deaths and confirmed The health, food and energy number of deaths to 6,528, cases and expressed hope that sectors are among areas according to health ministry the peak of the outbreak was considered to be essential. figures. approaching. An emergency cabinet The number of confirmed Spain also reported Sunday meeting on Sunday was to cases in Spain has now reached that 14,709 people had been decide on the details of the 78,797 — after the one-day cured of COVID-19, a rise of new measure. increase of 9.1 per cent — as 19.7 percent in 24 hours. Currently, people in Spain the country battles the world’s Like Italy, Spain on Saturday are authorised to leave home second most deadly outbreak tightened measures to contain for work if remote work is after Italy. the outbreak, ordering a halt not possible, to buy food, get Except for a brief lull to all “non-essential” activities. medical care or briefly walk recorded on Thursday, Spain’s “All workers in non-essential their dog. US Records 518 New COVID-19 Deaths in 24 Hours The US recorded 518 new That is about the same as nearly 60,000 cases and 965 coronavirus-linked deaths in Saturday’s increase of 21,309 deaths, according to a statement the span of 24 hours, according but the numbers are counted in released Sunday by Governor to data published Sunday by real time by Johns Hopkins and Andrew Cuomo. Johns Hopkins University. should be taken with caution. Senior US scientist Anthony The record toll, higher than With 136,880 total cases, the Fauci, an infectious disease the previous day’s increase of US has the highest number in expert and an advisor to 453, brings the country’s total the world, ahead of Italy, China President Donald Trump number of deaths since the start and Spain. during the crisis, cautiously of the pandemic to 2,409. New York State, which has predicted Sunday that the novel The number of cases shot become the epicenter of the coronavirus could claim between up 21,333 in one day, the data pandemic in the US, is by far 100,000 and 200,000 lives in the showed. the hardest-hit region, with United States. Netherlands’ COVID-19 Cases Exceed 10,000 The number of confirmed The Dutch government has number of hospital admissions novel coronavirus cases in adopted a series of measures to and the number of deaths the Netherlands passed the fight the virus but has decided among reported patients is 10,000 marks on Sunday, the so far not to force people to stay actually levelling off, and authorities said, as the country home. A review of the policy is thus how well the measures focuses on building up herd due to be unveiled on Tuesday. are working.” immunity rather than confining “The number of reported More than two-thirds of the population of 17 million. hospital admissions and the the more than 31,000 deaths A total of 771 people have number of deceased patients worldwide from coronavirus died from the COVID-19 appears to be increasing less have now been recorded in epidemic in the Netherlands rapidly than would be expected Europe and the Netherlands and 10,866 have tested positive, without measures in place,” the has warned people will be the country’s institute for public institute said on its website. put under confinement if the health and environment (RIVM) “In a number of days, it measures already are taken do said. can be concluded whether the not work. Canadian PM, Justin Trudeau’s Wife Recovers from COVID-19 Sophie Gregoire-Trudeau, the virus on March 12 after time being.” the wife of Canada’s Prime returning from Britain, with Earlier Saturday Trudeau Minister Justin Trudeau, has her husband subsequently told reporters he intended recovered from the novel going into self-quarantine to remain with his family at coronavirus. as a precautionary measure. his residence even though “I am feeling so much better He has since been giving his 14-day isolation period and have received the all clear daily press briefings from the had ended. from my physician and Ottawa porch of his residence. “We are continuing to follow Public Health,” she wrote on “I strongly believe that the advice of health experts. her Facebook page. science AND compassion And as everyone should do, “From the bottom of my will get us through this crisis,” we must try to stay at home, heart, I want to say thank you Gregoire-Trudeau said. to isolate ourselves as much to everyone who reached out “That means listening and as possible, not to go out if to me with their well wishes.” following the health protocols not absolutely necessary,” he She had tested positive for and staying at home for the said. German Minister Worried By Coronavirus Crisis Commits Suicide Thomas Schaefer, the finance disbelief and above all, we are workers deal with the economic minister of Germany’s Hesse immensely sad,” Bouffier said impact of the pandemic. state, has committed suicide in a recorded statement. “Today we have to assume apparently after becoming Hesse is home to Germany’s that he was deeply worried,” “deeply worried” over how financial capital Frankfurt, where said Bouffier, a close ally of to cope with the economic major lenders like Deutsche Bank Chancellor Angela Merkel. fallout from the coronavirus, and Commerzbank have their “It’s precise during this difficult state premier Volker Bouffier headquarters. The European time that we would have needed said Sunday. Central Bank is also located in someone like him,” he added. Schaefer, 54, was found dead Frankfurt. Popular and well-respected, near a railway track on Saturday. A visibly shaken Bouffier Schaefer had long been touted as The Wiesbaden prosecution’s recalled that Schaefer, who was a possible successor to Bouffier. office said they believe he died Hesse’s finance chief for 10 years, Like Bouffier, Schaefer by suicide. had been working “day and belonged to Merkel’s centre-right “We are in shock, we are in night” to help companies and CDU party. MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 • THISDAY 43 44 MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 •THISDAY MONDAY MARCH 30, 2020 • THISDAY 45 46 MONDAYMARCH 30, 2020 ˾THISDAY 24 HOURS... 24 HOURS... COVID-19: SERAP Wants FG to Publish Weekly Details of Funds Allocations

Chuks Okocha in Abuja Nigeria.The group also wants (NCDC) website functional and put in place to ensure that the In two Freedom of of the funds and resources a disclosure of information accessible, and publish on the funds and resources allocated Information (FoI) requests sent being mobilised to combat One of the front line civil on the exact number of tests website the weekly spending to combat COVID-19 are not to the Minister of Health, Dr. coronavirus amid problems society group on accountability, that have been carried out for on initiatives such procurement, diverted, stolen or mismanaged testing, early detection and as swell as measures to protect Osagie Ehanire, and Director- to access the NCDC website the Socio-Economic Rights high-ranking public officials General of NCDC, Dr. Chikwe and reports that authorities and Accountability Project and politicians; the number of isolation of confirmed cases health workers, encourage the Ihekweazu, made available to are prioritising home testing (SERAP), has asked the federal any such high-ranking public and follow-ups.The civil society country’s poorest and most government to publish weekly officials and politicians now group also stated that it wanted vulnerable people to come THISDAY, SERAP said: “We of politicians, with some details of exact funds and other in self-isolation or quarantine, the government to disclose forward for testing and to are concerned about the lack reportedly taking multiple resources allocated by the as well as the exact number processes and procedures enhance testing for this group. of transparency in the use tests.” authorities and received from of tests that have been carried the private sector as well as out for the country’s poorest details of used and planned and most vulnerable people. use of any of such funds and SERAP also wants the federal resources to combat the spread government to make Nigeria of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Centre for Disease Control FG Activates Health Desks in 774 LGAs Udora Orizu in Abuja he was pleased to learn about the ways in which Nigerians As part of effort aimed at are coming together to support containing the spread of the containment of COVID-19. COVID-19, the Federal Ministry He however, said the increase of Environment has activated in cases over the last few days, environmental health desks in all according to the National the 774 local government areas in Centre for Disease Control the country to vigorously pursue (NCDC) update, indicated that grassroots advocacy. Nigerians need to take more The Minister of Environment, serious measures to collectively Dr. Mohammad Abubakar, contain the virus. disclosed this in a statement Abubakar, who is also a yesterday, saying the health member of the Presidential Task desks will also offer guidance Force on the control of the spread GIVING BACK TO THE SOCIETY… and counseling as well as of coronavirus, urged Nigerians L-R: Head, Operations, Primero Transport Services Limited, Mr. Abiodun Apata; Director of Bus Services at Lagos Metropolitan Area disinfect all risk-prone areas. to continue to heed the advice Transport Authority (LAMATA), Dr. Desmond Amiegbebhor; Managing Director of Primero, Mr. Fola Tinubu; LAMATA Managing Director, He said: “The Department of experts and government on Mrs Abimola Akinajo; and Managing Director of Safety and Protection Management Solutions Limited, Mr Tunji Olaniyi, at the launch of of Pollution Control and COVID-19. free distribution of 3M nose masks to Lagos residents, in Lagos…weekend Environmental Health as well “As more people are being as the Environmental Health encouraged to go into self- Officers Council of Nigeria has isolation, we must remind since deployed their personnel everyone to stay home and Oyo Task Force Impounds 22 Vehicles At Club Houses across the country to disinfect practice social distancing. We and decontaminate public places know this is immensely difficult Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan the state capital. raid, charged them to be Agency and other security such as markets, motor parks, for many of us, but we know The Executive Chairman of professional in the exercise agencies, and we have begun airports, schools and other this is the right thing to do. We The Oyo State COVID-19 the Oyo State Road Transport and respect fundamental a special night monitoring congested areas in conjunction can and must take these steps Security and Enforcement Management (OYRTMA), human rights in the course and enforcement of the with relevant authorities in an together. “The Presidential Task sub-Committee has impounded Mogaji Akin Fagbemi, who of the operation. state government’s directive effort to contain further spread Force on the control of the spread a total of 22 illegally parked distributed protective tools According to him, “The Oyo aimed at curbing the spread of of the pandemic.” of COVID-19 is continuing to vehicles during its special such as hand gloves, portable State COVID-19 Security and COVID-19 among residents of The minister also sent words take necessary action, but we all night operations to enforce hand sanitizers, face masks Enforcement sub-Committee the state, particularly through of empathy to Kaduna State need Nigerians to do their part. compliance at club houses and thermometers to the is made up of Oyo State transport operators, night clubs Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, Avoid large gatherings, practice and public places in Ibadan, team of officers before the Road Transport Management and other public places.” who last Saturday tested positive social distancing, wash your to coronavirus. hands with soap, cover your The minister, in a series of mouth while coughingh and Onyeama Denies Testing Positive to COVID-19 tweets thereafter, noted that stay home,” he added. Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja the virus as fabricated and his Personal Assistant.” embarrass and spread alarm malicious. Onyeama insisted that himself and panic during a national The Minister of Foreign Affairs, He said, “It has come to and his aide were in Abuja at emergency. Mr. Geoffrey Onyeama, has the attention of the Minister all material times, adding that “For that reason as well as SEC Unveils Regulatory denied testing positive to the of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Geoffrey as a member of the Presidential to curb this kind of criminal rampaging COVID-19. Onyeama, that a fabricated and Taskforce on COVID-19, all the behaviour, the matter has been The minister in a statement malicious report is circulating in members were recently tested brought to the attention of the Framework for issued yesterday by his Special social and print media alleging and all found to be negative. law enforcement agencies for Adviser on Media, Sarah Sanda, that the two claimed cases of According to him, the authors investigation and severe Crowd-funding described the media report COVID-19 recently reported in of this act are well known, sanctions as a deterrence for alleging that he has contracted Enugu were the Minister and adding that their motive is to the future,” the minister added. Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja proposes conditions under which private companies are In a bid to further deepen the permitted, “with the required nation’s capital market and structure and mechanism in CAN Calls for Palliatives to Cushion Impact of Pandemic enable it provide development place” to raise capital from the Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja The CAN, IN a statement issued their daily needs as a result of the $2 trillion as palliatives to enable capital for medium and public through the process of by the Special Assistant (Media lockdown order. People cannot its citizens to adapt to the impact small-scale enterprises of the crowd-funding. The President of the Christian &Communications) to the CAN be lockdown in hunger for a of the Covid-19 outbreak. economy, the Securities and The funding occurs within Association of Nigeria (CAN), President, Pastor Adebayo Oladeji, long time. You are not the only He said: “Both the Democrats Exchange Commission (SEC), a period known as funding His Eminence, Rev. Dr. Samson urged Nigerians not to be afraid in government that gave such an and the Republicans in the at the weekend unveiled an round, “within which a specific Ayokunle, has asked the federal order to overcome the COVID-19 order but governments all over Congress have buried their exposure draft of its regulatory project, business, or venture and state governments to provide pandemic. the world are providing relief political differences and they are framework for crowd-funding is hosted on a crowdfunding palliatives that would cushion the Ayokunle said: “I call on our assistance to the people. now working together. This is what in the country. platform to raise funds from effects of the economic lockdown governments to provide palliatives According to him, the United governance is all about. I appeal to Crowd-funding, an a large number of people in on the masses. for the people who cannot provide States’ government had approved our governments to do likewise. alternative finance source exchange for shares, debt is the practice of funding a securities or other investment project or business venture instruments approved by the by raising small amounts of commission. Kwara Gov Donates 100% Salary to State money from a large number The funds may either be Hammed Shittu in Ilorin May 29, 2019 to date to his have included keeping our humanity needs all the help it of people through an online pooled from high net worth administration efforts to prevent people at home while we ramp can get. For this reason, I am platform, which could be a investors, or a large number Kwara State Governor, the spread of COVID-19 in the up investments in our capacity hereby donating 100 percent of website, portal, intermediary of people through an online AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, state. to cope with this global health my monthly salary since May portal, application, or other platform in exchange for yesterday rallied support for “Whereas our state has emergency,” AbdulRazaq said 29, 2019, when I was sworn similar modules that facilitate any investment instruments the state campaign to keep no confirmed case of the in a statement issued by his in, to our efforts to prevent interaction between fundraisers approved by the commission, COVID-19 out of the state. coronavirus as at now, we Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu this virus from getting to us; and the investing public. which also be plain vanilla The governor also announced have been taking every step Ajakaye. provide palliatives to our people The draft regulatory bonds or debentures, and the donation of 100 percent of necessary to ensure we keep He added: “This time calls as well as boost our capacity framework, when approved, simple contracts. his 10 months’ salary from Kwara State safe. Such measures for sacrifice from everyone as to cope if it ever comes here.” ˜ ͻ͸˜ͺ͸ͺ͸˾THISDAY 47

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email [email protected] MONDAYSPORTS 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY Enyeama Leads Other African Legends against Covid-19 Femi Solaja with agency the world. short video is aimed at Above all, he urged Uganda is the only female for safety measures. report The Nigeria goalkeeper ensuring the spread of Nigerians and others to former footballer in the “Apply soap, Lather your to three World Cup finals the virus is curbed. adhere to the “stay at video. hands well with soap, Scrub Former Super Eagles in 2002, 2010 and 2014 was This video came 24 home” advisory as this will Wael Gomaa of Egypt, your hands for at least 20 Captain and goalkeeper, part of a group of African hours after the President of enable the battle against Fatau Dauda and Anthony seconds, Rinse your hands Vincent Enyeama, yesterday football legends that came Nigeria Football Federation Covid -19 to be at least 90 Baffoe of Ghana completed under clean water and Dry teamed up with some together to do a short video (NFF), Amaju Pinnick had per cent won. the list of ex internationals your hands using a clean former African football on how to stay safe this earlier released one on The 98-seconds video by leading the fight against towel,” they pleaded. legends in the fight against period. behalf of the board and the African legends featured the virus. The likes of Diouf and the Coronavirus (Covid-19) Tagged the #Safehands football community in the others like Roger Milla of In the video clip, the Lualua spoke in their local pandemic that is ravaging and #Noshandshake, the country. Cameroon, Herita Ilunga players emphasized on dialects, Wolof and Lingala “We must join the global and Tresor Lomana Lualua the importance of washing respectively. army in eliminating this both from DR Congo, El- of hands and avoiding As a result of Covid-19, scourge from the Planet Hadji Diouf, Alassane handshake as some of CAF has suspended all Covid-19: Nigerian Athletes Earth. We must listen N’Dour, Khalilou Fadiga the measures to stop the competitions until further to the dictates of our and Diomansy Kamara spread. notice and remain in government…”, said the from Senegal, Representing various constant with partners under Close Watch, Says NFF president who urged Atlas Lion of Morroco’s generations, and led by such as the World Health people to follow the dictates France 1998 striker, Mustafa CAF Deputy General Organisation, FIFA among of personal hygiene as well El-Haddaoui, Jean is also Secretary, Baffoe, they others in the fight against Sports Minister as social distancing. there while Ssenide of tutored Africans on steps the virus. Despite the postponement pay to use those facilities, of the 20th National Sports so there’s a continuous Festival and the Tokyo engagement with our 2020 Olympics due to athletes,” observed the the outbreak of Covid-19, minister yesterday. the Minister of Youth and Dare insisted that Nigeria Sports Development, Mr. would stick to 11 sports for Sunday Dare, has assured the Olympics as earlier the nation that the ministry decided, even as funds was monitoring the would be released pending athletes. qualifiers which the athletes According to him: “The can attend as soon as the Nigerian authorities through virus is stemmed. the Sports Ministry called He urged them not to off the National Sports relent in their training Festival as precautionary , even as the Ministry measure to curb the will continue to plan and spread of Covid-19. This strategise to support them. means several of our Dare said: “As we speak, athletes overseas can no in another two days, 33 of longer practice because the athletes - both foreign the sporting facilities were and home-based - are shut down. completing a video message “We are in touch with to lend their voices to the each one of them through awareness campaign on our database to monitor how to curb the spread of their plans and to know the virus. I am also involved the kind of support they in the campaign. It’s being need. produced as we speak. “Despite the He said Nigerian athletes postponement, the from across the world “will ‘Adopt-an-Athlete’ project be giving out messages of is ongoing and the funds encouragements to our are going to them. So we fellow citizens.” Fans who have been starved of top ﬂight football watching the Minsk derby last Saturday are happy that those funds Dare said the country’s can help them at this period athletes “will be prepared when they cannot make whenever the Olympics money from competitions. will hold. What is of the Belarus Premier League Attracts Global “They are free to leverage utmost urgency right now on that; they can also look is to ensure that Covid-19’s Attention as it Plays on for indoor facilities where spread is contained so we they can practice. They can can all be free again.” Football is suspended in derby was practically the go ahead. 2020 season. the UK and across most only official football match “We’ve taken all the Alexander Strok, a of world because of the on earth,” read Dinamo’s measures recommended Dinamo Minsk spokesman, Covid-19: Turkey’s coronavirus (Covid-19) match report after their 3-2 by the Sports Ministry. All hopes the international pandemic - but the game defeat. those who are in contact attention will help rolls on in Belarus. There have been fewer with fans are supplied with the players “get more Former Keeper, Rustu, The Belarusian Premier than 100 cases and no gloves,” he added. responsible” after two League rarely gets a deaths from coronavirus in The decision to carry straight defeats. in Hospital mention in normal the former Soviet republic, on has helped the Belarus Fans around the world circumstances yet it is which has a population of Football Federation secure have been posting Turkey’s most capped Rustu retired in 2012 after attracting attention from around 9.5million people. broadcasting deals with messages about football player, former goalkeeper a five-year stint with Besiktas. foreign fans as one of the While most European sports networks in 10 in Belarus on social Rustu Recber, is in a “critical “We convey our wishes few places around the countries are quarantining countries, including Russia, media with Starboard period” in hospital with for a speedy recovery to globe - and the only place their citizens and shutting Israel and India, where Wunmi tweeting: “You coronavirus.The ex-Barcelona our former national team and Fenerbahce keeper, 46, goalkeeper Rustu Recber, in Europe - where football borders, the President fans have been left with know you’re obsessed won 120 caps and was one of who sported our jersey for is still being played. of Belarus, Alexander nothing to watch. with football when you’re the players of the tournament many years; we wish for On Saturday, there were Lukashenko, is not worried Aleinik called it an checking out the recent when Turkey reached the 2002 him to regain his health as six top-flight games in the and has even suggested “unprecedented situation”. form of Slutsk and Dinamo World Cup semi-finals. soon as possible and hope eastern European country citizens drink vodka to Dinamo Minsk, seven- Brest before their games “We are still in shock by to receive good news from including the derby combat the disease. time Premier League kicks off in the Belarus the sudden and rapidly him,” Fenerbahce said on between FC Minsk and Belarus Football winners, had a player sent Premier League.” developing symptoms,” Twitter. Dinamo Minsk watched Federation spokesman off in the 58th minute as David Watson added: his wife Isil Recber said on Barcelona wrote on Twitter by a capacity 3,000 crowd Aleksandr Aleinik said they lost to neighbours “By the end of this Instagram. Isil and her two in Turkish: “Get well Rustu! in Belarus’ capital. precautions were being FC Minsk, who lead the everyone will have a team children have tested negative We love you and we as “It so happened that this taken to allow games to table two games into the they support in Belarus.” for the virus. Barcelona stand with you!” T RU N Monday March 30, 2020TH & REASO Price: N250 MISSILE Supreme Court to APC “The rules are clear that the court shall not review any judgment. The ﬁrst and constant duty of the court in interpreting statute is to give regard to the statute. There is total prohibition to review judgment. The operative words are ‘shall not” – The Supreme Court dismissing the application of the APC seeking to review the judgment on the Zamfara governorship election. ALEXOTTI OUTSIDE THE BOX [email protected] Coronavirus: The Global Democratic Pandemic Downpressor man fact, even those cities that made so much money their home government had asked them not sell Where you gonna run to from medical tourism are struggling to cope any ventilators any longer as their own country You gonna run to the sea with their own nationals. They are practically needed them and had actually bought up all But the sea will be boiling overwhelmed and cannot welcome additional they had at obviously higher prices. This is a pressure on their overstretched capacity. Someone major challenge as countries are holding back You gonna run to the rocks was lamenting the attitude of selfishness by the what is in their countries. This now brings us The rocks will be melting developed world which would make the pandemic to the issue of local production. We must find You drink your big champagne last longer than necessary. While we have no a way to encourage local capacity for a day like and laugh all along that day reason to disagree, we must also refer to cabin this. A few days ago, I engaged Chief Innocent attendants who advise aircraft passengers that Chukwuma of Innoson Motors who confirmed You can run but you can’t hide in the event of loss of cabin pressure, one must that his company has the capacity to fabricate You can’t bribe no one fit one’s oxygen mask first before helping others. ventilators locally. It would require modifying one Them no want no money Them run’f money The truth is that no country, except maybe China, of their production lines. His problem is that he That money gets funny has been able to handle this pandemic effectively is not sure of demand and would not be willing (Peter Tosh, 1977) and therefore cannot be thinking of extending a to take the risk and incur the huge expense hand to the challenged underdeveloped countries. if he does not have enough confirmed orders. he advent of the Coronavirus seems to One major lesson to learn from this Pandemic Elsewhere in the United Kingdom, a company have forced those who would ordinarily is that even if out of self-interest, our leaders called Dyson which specialises in the manufacture travel out for flimsy or even no reason should fix our healthcare delivery system. This of hand driers, has just been commissioned by at all, to stay back home. Those who column had in the past screamed itself hoarse the government to rush manufacture 10,000 units were abroad when the pandemic on the poor local healthcare delivery system, of ventilators for use in UK hospitals. Tbroke had to hurry home before the rest of the all to no avail. Available data shows that we The economic cost of this virus is better world shut down their borders and airspaces. Health Minister, Dr. Osagie Ehanire spend over a billion dollars annually on medical imagined than experienced. We can only The whole thing started like an innocuous tourism. We had recommended, and still do now, speculate but one thing that is certain is that affair late December 2019. Wuhan, a modern from all countries, and I believe that includes that investing this same amount locally in the it will take several years to wear off. Many Chinese city with about 11 million inhabitants, countries affected by the ban, to come over to sector, could give us some state of the art medical countries are rolling out stimulus packages to had been hit by a strange form of pneumonia. the US and help. facility, in preparation for a day like this. No cushion the effect of the disruption. The US The world started paying attention by middle Related to this is the fact that in the final one seemed to have listened. So, the question Congress has just passed a $2trillion dollar of January when fatalities began increasing by analysis, we are all human and therefore equal. is why are we doing this to ourselves? Studies package for the economy. Our own situation the day. Initially, the Chinese were blamed for The virus is simply a leveler and in a sense, have shown that a brand new sophisticated 500 is even worse and indeed could further worsen what was regarded as their local palaver through the ultimate democrat and a global citizen. It bed hospital on a land size of 40,000 square unless we act fast. It must be stated that the their lifestyle. Pictures of bat- and snake-eating is no respecter of persons. As it is ravaging meters that will employ between 3,000 and 5000 Central Bank of Nigeria has done something Wuhanians, were freely and gleefully circulated the poor man, it not leaving out the rich. It is people will cost no more than $750m, even on that is commendable. It recently announced a all over the social media. The situation soon affecting the black and the white. It is affecting a very generous budget. With free land and stimulus package of N1trillion to support the got out of hand as the disease spread to far the republican and the democrat. It is affecting cheap labour, it will cost much less. So, why economy. However, assuming that we share out flung destinations across the world. Before long, Prime Ministers, Princes, Governors, Presidents can’t we decide to have, at the minimum 6 the said sum equally, every Nigerian would get the World Health Organisation (WHO) would and their wives. It is affecting the driver, the medical villages deployed to the 6 geopolitical N5.00. Yes, Five Naira per person. I’m still trying declare the Coronavirus outbreak, a pandemic. cook, the house help and the security guard. zones of the country at the cost of what we to settle what N10 would do for my wife and Today, it is the most significant phenomenon The poor even seem more prepared since they spend in three years on medical tourism? This I before the money arrives. But what can we throughout the world. There have been all sorts had been used to dealing with challenges of would have the added advantage of creating do? Oil prices are now below $30 per barrel of speculation including conspiracy theories about diseases, hunger, poverty deprivation and even up to 30,000 direct jobs, and multiples of that and there are stories of ships laden with our its true nature and source. Some people have epidemics all through their lives. in indirect jobs. Besides, there is the benefit of crude oil floating on the high seas without any branded it a biological or chemical warfare started This pandemic has shown that little things improving our life expectancy and boosting our buyer in sight. Even at the low price, people are by China against the whole world. Some others matter! It is so humbling that some unseen virus GDP. Had we done this years ago, we would not not buying. Our national budget has had to be believe that it is an outcome of the implementation has the capacity to bring the entire world to be in the kind of mess we find ourselves today. scaled down in view of the present realities. Our of extreme technology like the 5G or even the its knees. While governments, particularly the We are like the proverbial local bird that only reserves are going down. There are scarcely new outcome of degradation of human immunity Super powers, were spending heavily in defence begins to build its nest when it goes into labour. foreign investors waiting to come into the country. resulting from various hybrid experiments. budgets trying to outdo each other in research We need not deceive ourselves and believe Exchange rates are shooting through the roof. An indigenous variant of these assumptions is and development of the deadliest weapons and that all is going well with us in the wake of With close to 100m of our people living by the that it is not an African disease. Several people, bombs; while they were investing in artificial this pandemic. The truth is that we are facing day and below poverty line, it is doubtful that including some respected ‘men of God’, had at intelligence, electric vehicles and automation, a major problem and there is a reality check we can afford a sustained lockdown to contain the beginning of the pandemic, boasted that it they spared no thought about the possibility of loading. We may be reporting low numbers of the virus. Our GDP has been growing so slowly didn’t belong here. The general feeling was that all those being rendered useless by one hitherto Covid 19 cases relative to other countries, but the and limping behind our population growth rate. the virus could not survive the heat in Africa and unknown virus that travels across borders truth is that we are not in a position to confirm A sustained lockdown will easily fling us back that our own genes were resistant to the virus. without visas and passports. Since the virus our situation with any certainty, because we are into a recession. We therefore must realise that China, on the other hand, faced the scourge struck, attention has shifted away from high unable test a significant number of our people. we have a very difficult situation in our hands. with all seriousness it deserved and achieved tech developments and nations are fighting hard As at March 25, we were only able to conduct This may therefore be a good time to look commendable results. It implemented a strict to contain the plague. Expenditure is focused 262 tests nationwide for a population of 200m at our economy again. We must open up the lockdown policy and quickly contained the spread on developing and manufacturing a vaccine people. The reason the tests are not happening economy to private sector initiatives. There is of the virus. Some other countries have followed and medication for this pandemic. It is at this is lack of equipment to do them. Reports have it too much public sector presence that suffocates the Chinese method with similar results. A few point that humanity understands that in the that there are only 5 molecular laboratories in the the private sector. This is the time to give them others, however, remained lax about it and the final analysis, God remains greater than man, whole country. They are located as follows: 2 in all the incentives to help reflate the economy. price has been a harvest of rampant infection and even for those who don’t believe in Him. It has Lagos and 1 each in Abuja, Osun and Edo. Two We need to immediately put more money in deaths. Here in Nigeria, the authorities started become clearer to the nuclear powers of the world more in Ibadan and Ebonyi are being expected. the hands of the people. Where is the money strict monitoring and precautionary measures that those investments are really nothing but Compare this to South Africa with a population going to come from? Low interest rates which after an index case was recorded in Lagos on vanity. This Pandemic is capable of wiping out of 60million people who have tested over 20,000 the CBN governor has been pushing is a good February 27, 2020. There are a lot to learn from everyone without anyone shooting any bullet. people with less than 1000 reporting positive and policy. That policy alone cannot cut it. Reduction the outbreak of this virus and I pray that we It has exposed the world’s underbelly. 2 deaths. We are aware that with the receipt of in the cost of governance has become imperative. shall take the lessons. Somehow, everyone has now been forced to stay Jack Ma Foundation support of 20,000 test kits, We cannot continue to ignore it. We must also One of the first lessons is that the world has indoors. Those who never spent time at home; 100,000 masks and 1,000 protective suites, the deliberately identify areas of the economy that actually become a global village in a way different those who were hitherto seemingly too busy to situation would change, but not radically. The we want to promote. If we get it right, we stand from how we understood it. For those who chose be found at home; those who have many homes issue of ventilators is even more worrisome. We the chance of turning this “apocalypse” into a to erect physical or psychological walls, we are both on land, sea and air, are now all forced to have reports that the total number of ventilators blessing in disguise. If we don’t, we are sure being taught that when disaster comes, those hibernate in one of them, the land more like! in the country is less than 500. This is a necessary going to end up in a crisis far worse than any walls would not protect us. You may be fooled Those who are infected are forced to remain in piece of medical equipment for the treatment economic crisis that we had witnessed in the that you are protected from external attacks but their countries. No matter how much money of Covid 19. An attempt made over a week ago past. Against our best wishes, we do not see the pandemic has shown that with globalization, they have, despite their private jets and yatches, by the Alex Otti Foundation to buy a few units that this pandemic is going to abate anytime some phenomena are no respecter of such walls. they must remain where they are diagnosed for from Europe to support hospitals in Abia State, soon. We must brace up for a crisis that will It is interesting that the US which imposed visa treatment. Their influence is no longer of any failed woefully. After paying for the ventilators, last months, if not years. If luck smiles at us ban on some countries including Nigeria, a few consequence. Their private jets can no longer when our representative went to pick them up, and it is contained in the short term, then we weeks ago, is now calling for medical personnel land in the healthcare capitals of the world. In the sellers offered to refund the money because must thank God. 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