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N’Assembly Increases Extra Budget By N86.9bn to N982.729bn Senate approves $6.183bn external loan request Deji Elumoye and Udora year submitted to its two federal government's request budget as it approved the external borrowings. Presenting the report, Orizu in Abuja chambers, the Senate and the for $6.183 billion (N2.343 2022 - 2024 Medium Term The passage of the Chairman of the Appropriation House of Representatives, by trillion) as external borrowing Expenditure Framework supplementary Appropriation Committee, Senator Barau The National Assembly President Muhammadu Buhari in 2021 Appropriation Act. and the Fiscal Strategy Paper Bill 2021 by the Senate was a Jibrin, explained that N45.63 yesterday raised the N895.842 by N87.9 billion and approved Nonetheless, the federal (MTEF & FSP), authorising sequel to the consideration of billion required for COVID-19 billion supplementary budget N982.729 billion. government has intensified the funding of a N5.26 trillion a report by the Committee on proposal for the 2021 fiscal The Senate also approved the preparations for next year's budget deficit in 2022 through Appropriation during plenary. Continued on page 12
Zulum, Ishaku, Senators Back Southern Presidency...Page 8
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CONDOLENCES... L-R (Front row): Mr. Mobolaji Balogun; Group Deputy Managing Director, Access Bank Plc, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna; deceased’s children, Ms. Ofovwe and Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede; Chairman, Mrs. Ajoritsedere Awosika; deceased's husband, Mr. Frank Aig-Imoukhuede; GMD/CEO, Mr. Herbert Wigwe; deceased’s daughter, Mrs. Erekpitan Ola-Adisa; and Executive Directors, Mr. Victor Etuokwu and Ms. Chizoma Okoli, during the condolence visit by the board of the bank to the Aig-Imoukhuede family over the death of their matriarch, Mrs. Emily Aig-Imoukhuede in Lagos…recently UNICEF Urges More Protection for Children, Schools, Says 950 Abducted Parents of kidnapped pupils accuse Kaduna school of negligence Emma Okonji, Nosa on schoolchildren, as well as being attacked or taken from Nigeria since December 2020. and negligence, for not taking past six weeks alone, nearly Alekhuogie in Lagos and child abductions in Nigeria, their families. Also, people whose children action to beef up security 500 children were abducted Michael Olugbode in Abuja with a call on authorities UNICEF, in a statement and wards were kidnapped around the premises, after in four separate incidents in in the country to do more yesterday by its Executive from Bethel Baptist High receiving a threat letter from both the North-central and The United Nations Children’s to ensure that children can Director, Ms. Henrietta Fore, School in Kaduna on Monday, bandits planning to kidnap North-west, with many still Fund (UNICEF) has expressed safely live and go to school lamented that no fewer than have accused the school the pupils. concern over growing attacks or fetch water without fear of 950 students were abducted in authorities of complacency UNICEF stated that over the Continued on page 8
Adeosun Savours Court Victory, Says I am Vindicated...Page 5 2 THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY 3 4 THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY THURSDAY, ˜ͺͺ˾THISDAY 5
Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike NEWS Email [email protected], 08066066268 Adeosun Savours Court Victory, Says I am Vindicated She doesn’t need NYSC certificate for ministerial appointment, judge rules Alex Enumah in Abuja Youth Service Scheme (NYSC) from a London University in Kingdom citizen having said since the 1979 Constitution, all Nigerians in the Diaspora. discharge certificate to take up 1989, was already 36 years old been born there in 1967 and which was in force at the She said she would take It was a sweet victory for a ministerial appointment in by the time of her appointment, remained there till 2003 when time did not recognise dual further steps at the appropriate former Minister of Finance, the country. adding that in line with the she came back to Nigeria. citizenship, Adeosun could not time to protect her reputation. Mrs. Kemi Adeosun, yesterday, Delivering judgment in a suit requirements of the scheme, He added that Adeosun have served because she was Adeosun said: “My lawyers as Justice Taiwo Taiwo of the instituted by her, Justice Taiwo, she was exempted from service. became a Nigerian citizen by a British citizen. have informed me of the Abuja Division of the Federal who granted all the reliefs In a swift reaction, the former virtue of the 1999 Constitution, Adeosun graduated from the judgment by the Federal High Court declared that she sought by the plaintiff, noted minister said in a statement which came into force on May University of East London in High Court, Abuja, in the did not need the National that Adeosun who graduated yesterday that the judgment 29, 1999, and, therefore, was 1989 at the age of 22. case of Folakemi Adeosun had vindicated her. not affected by the NYSC Act. The court ruled that Nigeria v the Attorney-General of Adeosun had resigned her Justice Taiwo said Adeosun citizenship only reverted under the Federation (FHC/ABJ/ appointment as Minister of would have committed a grave the extant constitution by which CS/303/2021) in which the Govs to Launch Peace, Inclusive Finance and returned to the crime against Nigeria, if she time Adeosun was well above court, presided over by Hon. United Kingdom following the had participated in the NYSC 30 and ineligible to participate Justice Taiwo Taiwo, ruled that controversy surrounding her having attained the exemption in the NYSC scheme. the constitution does not require Security Initiative Today NYSC status. age of 36 years. The court accordingly me to present my first-degree Chuks Okocha in Abuja (NDA). She, however, instituted The judge stated that the granted all reliefs sought by certificate or any other certificate, The statement added a suit against the federal constitution does not require Adeosun's counsel. including the NYSC certificate, Governors of the 36 states that there would also be a government, which also the plaintiff to present her first- to be appointed a minister. of the federation will today technical steering committee, included the Attorney-General degree certificate or any other Ruling Has “More importantly, he also launch their peace and explaining that this will be the of the Federation. certificate, including the NYSC Vindicated Me, Says ruled that I was not eligible inclusive security initiative technical organ responsible for The judge held that Adeosun certificate, before she could be ex-Finance Minister to perform NYSC by virtue in Abuja with a former implementing the decisions and could not have presented appointed as a minister. of the constitution. This is military Head of State, Gen. directions of the panel to be herself for participation in It ruled that the ministerial Reacting to the judgment in a the position I have always Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd) steered by the NGF Secretariat, the NYSC programme because appointment of Adeosun was statement in Abuja yesterday, maintained and I am happy in attendance. the Foreign Commonwealth under 1979 Constitution, which not illegal, neither was it Adeosun said she had been for this official clarification. According to a statement and Development Office, the was in force at the time of unconstitutional, even without vindicated by the court. “The ruling vindicates me by the Head of Media and Office of the Secretary to the her graduation, she was not presenting the NYSC certificate. She, however, added that after a very traumatic spell. Publicity of the Nigeria Federal Government, the a Nigerian citizen either at the In its ruling on a suit for she had a traumatic spell on It is, however, not only a Governors’ Forum (NGF), Federal Ministry of Finance, time of her graduation or when constitutional interpretation the certificate forgery allegation personal victory; it’s also a Mr. Abdullraque Barkindo, Budget and National Planning, she turned 30. filed at the court in March against her. victory for many Nigerians the event is aimed at tackling the National Orientation The court held that facts 2021 by the firm of Chief She said the judgment of in the Diaspora under similar insecurity, conflict and violence. Agency. before it proved that the Wole Olanipekun (SAN), on Justice Taiwo was not only a conditions who are desirous He said the initiative would Others are the Ministry former minister was a United behalf of Adeosun, the court personal victory for her but for to serve their country." provide a platform for sharing of Humanitarian Affairs, experiences on government, Disaster Management and civil society initiatives Social Development and the testing practicable ideas and Ministry of Interior, related pushing for implementation of Ministries, departments and innovative solutions to conflict agencies at the state level, and insecurity. security agencies and military The initiative panel will operations deployed in relevant comprise governors, heads states, donors, international of security and other eminent organisations and civil societies. persons who can influence The objectives of the meeting, policy at the highest level and it was gathered, included who might have contributed having agenda-setting on in promoting national peace peace and stability, especially at and security. the sub-national levels. It will Besides Abdulsalami, who support decision-making on doubles as the chairman of security at the national level the National Peace Committee, through the National Economic other guests expected at the Council (NEC). event include the Minister It will help in identifying of Humanitarian, Disaster the drivers of insecurity at Management and Social the state level and stimulate Development, Ms. Sadiya collaborative response by Farouk; Prof. Abiodun Alao stakeholders. of the African Studies, Kings There will also be high- College London; the Director of level advocacy for peace and the African Security Leadership inclusive security among the Centre, Mr. Nnamdi Obasi; governors and government Senior Adviser on Nigeria institutions at federal and International Crisis Group, state levels. Prof. Isaac Mbachu of Political The initiative will also, Science and Defence Studies promote networking and LATEST GENERAL... also former Head of Political synergy amongst state and Science and Defence Studies, non-state actors to enhance L-R: President Muhammadu Buhari; Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Farouk Yahaya; and Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), Nigerian Defence Academy peace and inclusive security. during the decoration of the army boss in Abuja...yesterday godwin omoigui COAS: We've Sent Criminals Undermining Nigeria's Security to God Magashi defends Buhari’s threats against illegal arm bearers Deji Elumoye in Abuja Abuja. particularly insurgency and crimes. expects from the new army understand, Magashi said: "I Asked what message he other violent crimes, adding “We are already getting chief, he said:" I think really don't seem to see any The Chief of Army Staff has for the bandits and other that the military would successes. We will leverage on like every other chief, his need for explanation; if you (COAS), Lt. Gen. Farouk criminals undermining the continue to leverage on the that including our experience mandate is to bring to an commit an offence you will Yahaya, has declared that many national security given Buhari’s successes recorded so far and in this job and by the grace end this banditry, kidnapping be treated, you will be tried, bandits and other criminals declaration that they would be its experience. of God, we shall get there,” and the Boko Haram issue if you are guilty you will be undermining the nation's spoken to in the language they He said: “I want to first he added. and I think right from his punished. security have been sent to understand, the COAS stated: most sincerely appreciate the Also speaking, Magashi resumption to date there is "But for anybody picking God to answer for their crimes. “That’s what we have started President and Commander- said the ceremony was a a lot of improvement in the arms against soldiers, you This is just as the Minister doing already and many of in-Chief of the armed forces normal decoration and that way we are fighting this war. know what it means; we will of Defence, Maj. Gen. Bashir them have been sent to God to for the confidence reposed in the president had given his The planning is thorough, the also treat him according to the Magashi (rtd), said undesirable go and answer for their crimes. me and now being decorated directives on what he wanted activities are going according law. I don't think that there is elements carrying unauthorised And we will continue to do lieutenant general and Chief them to achieve. to operational plans and I anything wrong to get rid of arms are now being taught in that.” of Army Staff. He said: "It is a normal am sure with that kind of your enemy if he wants to get the language they understand, Yahaya thanked the president “And I want to pledge my decoration, the president has arrangement we will get out rid of you and that is what as directed by President for the confidence reposed in unalloyed loyalty on behalf already talked to us about how of the insurgency problem. " the President is saying. You Muhammadu Buhari. him, pledging his unalloyed of the officers and men of he wants us to operate, how he On whether the military cannot burn our weapon and The Chief of Army Staff loyalty on behalf of the officers the Nigerian Army and also wants us to solve the problem has started implementing be allowed to stay alive because spoke yesterday, shortly after and men of the Nigerian Army. continue to do our very best of this insecurity especially the president’s order that he can use that weapon against being decorated with his new He promised that the army to arrest this challenge that we in the North-east and he has criminals undermining national you. So we use the weapon rank of lieutenant general by will continue to do its best to have, particularly insurgency, already started." security should be treated in against them and that is what Buhari at the State House, arrest insecurity in the country, insecurity and other violent Asked what the president the language they would we are doing. 6 THURSDAY, ˜ͺͺ˾THISDAY NEWS Oil Majors Back PIB, Seek Speedy Assent Buhari to receive final document next week Senate committee says 5% will be approved for host communities Emmanuel Addeh and Peter “The point to be made is congratulating the National to articulate to get funds captured the scenarios and the National Assembly believe Uzoho in Abuja that more than any time in Assembly “for reaching this in-country. And also, the bill we have proven that we will that for there to be peaceful the past, the industry has been milestone.” will take care of the plethora move the industry and the coexistence and based on International Oil Companies consulted. All of us on this side “And I want to reiterate the of taxes we are faced with,” country forward,” he said. reality, a chunk of their cost (IOCs) operating in Nigeria of the table have had cause to high degree of stakeholder he said. According to him, the bill, of production is attributable yesterday rallied behind go to the National Assembly involvement and listening Senate Committee when assented, will ensure to insecurity. the Petroleum Industry Bill to make our voices heard.” to everyone that will be Chairman, Upstream, transparency in the running “We in the Senate believe (PIB) passed by the National He stated that although the impacted. Senator Bassey Akpan, said of the industry and have a that by the increase of the Assembly last week, describing document is not perfect, all “We have spent a lot of the bill would be sent to the positive impact on the host 2.5 per cent to five per cent it as a watershed in the annals stakeholders have been carried time providing insights and president for his assent next communities. and placing some elements of of the oil and gas industry in along during putting the well- input and we look forward week, adding that there’s He added that the state responsibility on the protection the country. articulated bill together, while to seeing that final version no controversy over the governments have been of the assets on the host The oil majors, including the industry is now waiting so that we can really dive funds allocated to the host carefully excluded from communities, we will stop Total, Shell, ExxonMobil and for the end product. into it in our transition from communities. the governance of the host the issues of blockades.” Chevron said at the 20th Managing Director of Total putting the bill together to “Between now and Tuesday, community structure, which He added that once the Nigerian Oil and Gas (NOG) Energies, Nigeria, Mr. Mike operationalising it. We have the joint committee of the is now strictly between the huge sums spent on security Conference and Exhibition in Sangster, said Nigeria deserved a lot of work to do but it is National Assembly of which settlor and the hosts. by oil companies are put into Abuja, that while there had credit for finally passing the going to be exciting,” he said. I am one, will be laying the On the controversy over the the fund, in the long run, been attempts in the past to legislation, adding that though Managing Director of report at the plenary and three per cent allocation to the they will have a peaceful push the bill, the latest round it took about a decade to pass ExxonMobil, Mr. Richard should be heading towards communities, he said: “There environment to operate. of consultations were the most the bill, the legislation would Laing, also said the the presidential villa before are speculations as to whether Chairman of Major Oil intense. free the industry from some uncertainty and multiple the end of next week. it’s three per cent or five per Marketers Association of Managing Director, Shell of the impediments that had taxes surrounding the industry “We have for once cent. What was laid before Nigeria (MOMAN), Mr. Tunji Petroleum Development inhibited its growth. would now be addressed with constructively taken a note the National Assembly is five Oyebanji, in his remarks, stated Company (SPDC) and Country He said: “We look forward the passage of the PIB. of the peculiarities of the per cent of actual operators' that the real fundamental and Chair of Shell Companies in to the presentation of the final “This will bring certainty different operators in the expenses in the preceding year. basic thing to driving energy Nigeria, Mr. Osagie Okunbor, law. It has taken 20 years to and after that will come country, whether the IOCs, “What the Senate proposed security and sufficiency in who participated in a panel get to this stage. Nigeria the competitiveness in the or other stakeholders in the was 2.5 per cent of the OPEX the country was to create discussion during the deserves some credit. The industry and in my role, I course of our consultations in the previous year and after the enabling environment programme, stated that the collaborative process has been have to go to the company and I think that we have all the consultations, we at for investment. industry was waiting for the good. The public hearings bill to be harmonised and and engagements have been speedily assented by President useful.” Muhammadu Buhari. He stated that with 37 billion He said the uncertainty that barrels of proven oil reserves had enveloped the industry and an optimistic production would be minimised, urging of two million barrels per day, that the implementation of it would take roughly 50 years the law should be taken to exhaust the resource, and seriously to grow the industry a lot of investment would be and ensure more returns to needed before then. stakeholders. According to him, the bill He said: “For those of will be critical to stimulate us on this side of the table, investment and encouraging you could almost not have increased production but a decent discussion with added that other issues like your corporate organisation security should be tackled on any investment decision head-on. without that uncertainty “There’s a huge challenge element coming in. That is of security in terms of cost. to say, under which law are Infrastructure, especially gas, we making these investment needs to be encouraged. We decisions? need to work together to “Just having this law finally drive down the cost of doing bodes well for the industry and business. Put side by side other we all need to congratulate countries, I think it’s on the those who have played their high side. We look forward to own part. I have been with seeing the final harmonised this PIB for the greater part bill next week,” he said. PUSHING FOR SOUTHERN PRESIDENCY... of my career. Several times, Also, Chairman and when you mention it outside, Managing Director of Chevron L-R: House Minority Leader, Hon. Ndudi Elumelu; Senate Minority Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe; and Senate they just laugh and say, ‘we Nigeria, Mr. Richard Kennedy, Minority Whip, Senator Phillip Aduda, at a joint press briefing by Peoples Democratic Party National Assembly caucus on have been through this before.’ joined his colleagues in Southern presidency in Abuja…yesterday julius atoi ECOWAS Parliament Lists Dangers of Airline Operators Justify Incessant Cryptocurrencies, Cautions against Use Delays, Cancellation of Domestic Flights Michael Olugbode in Abuja The joint committee also concentration of assets (96 per reminded the sub-region cent of bitcoins are believed Call for prosecution of unruly passengers The ECOWAS Parliament that cryptocurrencies can be to be held by 2.5 per cent of has cautioned against the refused for payment without users), a liquidity problem Deji Elumoye in Abuja of Jet A-1, the marketers had Ikeja in Lagos for instance, can use of cryptocurrencies as contravening legal provisions. may arise. been increasing the price of only accommodate a maximum a means of exchange and It added that crypto- Another risk factor of Airline Operators of Nigeria the product consistently in the of six aircraft at a time and commerce. assets are not a means of cryptocurrencies identified (AON) have attributed the delay recent past to the unbearable the newly built apron can Rising from a meeting payment and cannot be by the committee is that it and cancellation of domestic point, adding .that as at April, accommodate another three to of its joint committee in likened to e-cash, even as is an irreversible transaction. flights to unavailability and the Jet A-1 fuel was sold for about four aircraft. This means jostling Ouagadougou, Burkina cryptocurrencies were also The transaction cannot be rising cost of aviation fuel (Jet A1) N230 per litre. for parking space which also Faso yesterday, the ECOWAS identified as extremelycancelled when the sender and inadequate parking space. "About two months ago causes delay." Parliament stated that there volatile, owing to restrictive notices a mistake, as only The group led by the in May, the price jumped to Other reasons given by is a cause for concern with issuance mechanism that the receiver can decide to Chairman of Air Peace, Chief between N250 and N255 per Onyema are unavailability regards to the risk factors encourages speculation. return them. Allen Onyema, which appeared litre. As of today, the price has of forex for spare parts and involved. The joint committee stated The committee said another before the Senate Committee skyrocketed to an average of maintenance, sudden change The meeting, which that like all other digital source of concern to its use on Aviation, chaired by Senator N280- N300 per litre depending of weather, delay due to VIP highlighted the prospects payment instruments, Bitcoin was that almost no authority Smart Adeyemi, also demanded on if you are buying in Lagos movement, inefficient passenger of cryptocurrencies as a is always attacked by pirates. to regulate it. the prosecution of unruly or Abuja. This has greatly access and facilitation delayed facilitator for investment in The committee urged The joint committee, passengers at the airports. increased our operational cost," clearance of spare parts from West Africa had in attendance cryptocurrencies enthusiasts however, said the boom Onyema while claiming he added. Customs and inadequate cryptocurrency experts and to guard against the risk of Bitcoin and the that on some occasions, JetA1 Onyeama also hinged the screening and exit points at resource persons. of theft, adding that if the growing popularity of became scarce nationwide with cancellation and delay of flights departure. The meeting added that cryptocurrency is by nature virtual currencies had attendant impact on airline to inadequate parking space On the unruly behaviour of the sharp decline in the inviolable, portfolios, on the caught the attention of operations around the country for aircraft, explaining that some passengers, he called for value of Bitcoins over recent other hand, are not. financial authorities, while said at times the operators go during the rush hour between their prosecution, lamenting weeks is a reminder to all Among the risk governments have started the extra mile to fulfil their 6:30 am and 8.30 am, there that some passengers had in that cryptocurrencies are not factors identified is that giving them a thought. obligation to customers by are usually between 14 to 15 the past slapped his staff for safe assets, hence their use on cryptocurrency is an It noted that some countries looking for aviation fuel at aircraft departing out of the no just reason, while some the African continent is not insecure liquidity, given the have made efforts to put in the black market. local airport in Lagos. computers at the front desk without dangers for several shallow depth of the foreign place regulations and have He said apart from the "Unfortunately, the apron at at the airports had also been reasons. exchange market and high made some progress. crippling issue of shortage Muritala Muhammed Airport, destroyed by some passengers. THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY 7 8 THURSDAY, ˜ͺͺ˾THISDAY PAGE EIGHT Zulum, Ishaku, Senators Back Southern Presidency PDP lawmakers support state police Deji Elumoye, Chuks the South in the year 2023 be addressed. based on merit. country to ruminate on how Leader, Senator Enyinnaya Okocha, Adedayo because the unity of our He explained: “We have Also, the spokesman of best to resolve these crises. Abaribe; the Minority Akinwale, Udora Orizu in country is very important. to address the socio-political the Northern Elders’ Forum Bamidele said: "Nigeria Leader of the House of Abuja and Victor Ogunje in “Secondly, inclusivity is and economic dimensions (NEF), Dr. Hakeem Baba- has never been this divided Representatives, Hon. Ndudi Ado Ekiti very important. Thirdly, of this crisis which is very Ahmed, said yesterday on and the current parlous Elumelu, and other members I am in the APC. Six or important because there is a television programme situation that has pushed of the caucus who addressed More people and groups seven years ago, APC had increasing poverty in the that many Northerners our country to the verge journalists yesterday in yesterday joined the crusade, zoned the presidency to sub-region; that is something might be discouraged from of collapse necessitated the Abuja, also described the revived by the Southern Northern Nigeria based on that will trigger insurgency. voting for a Southerner as governors' decisions and plan to remove the clause Governors’ Forum, for the the agreement that in the “The issue of the socio- president with the manner it shouldn't be seen from on electronic transmission South to produce the next year 2023, the presidency political and economic the governors and leaders the narrow spectrum that of results from the Electoral president with endorsements should go to the South. dimensions of this crisis is of the region were going they were stoking the fire Amendment Bill as from Borno State Governor, “But again, this is politics. very important; addressing about their agitation. of disunity or promoting unpatriotic and mischievous. Prof. Babagana Zulum; We are supposed to meet farmers-herders conflict is On their part, the senators regionalism or ethnicity. The caucus affirmed the Taraba State Governor, Mr. and discuss this issue among also very important; to backed the governors "Rotational presidency demands by governors that Darius Ishaku, and senators ourselves, among the political ensure that the enabling from the region on their will resolve most of the as chief security officers from the region. class. environment has been unanimous decision on political problems and in the states, they must The senators stated that “This statement that people created for the herders is the rotational presidency, would naturally ward be duly informed before rotating the presidency to the are saying that the president very important. This issue of describing the measure as off secessionist agenda any security institution South would end secessionist must go to the South, I want stopping open grazing and the best political arrangement being promoted by some undertakes any operation agitations, a position the them to remove the word others will not work unless that can unify the country individuals and groups." in their domains. Peoples Democratic Party must.” we sit down and address and correct its fault lines. The forum condemned It also supported the (PDP) caucus in the National Zulum also dismissed all these issues squarely,” They stated that allowing open grazing resulting in the demand by the governors Assembly also supported. reports that he is nursing he added. the presidency to oscillate destruction of farmlands and that deductions from the The party’s legislators also an ambition of becoming Also speaking last night between the North and carnages due to unresolved Federation Account for the backed the other aspects of the vice president in 2023. on a live TV programme, the South will quell the crises between herders and Nigeria Police Security Trust the southern governors’ “And I have said it Ishaku also backed the call secessionist agitations by farmers. Fund should be distributed resolutions relating to the before, I am not interested for power rotation between some individuals and groups. The senators stated that among the states and federal creation of state police, the in becoming the vice the South and the North. The Southern Senators’ the governors did well government to combat Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) president of the country or He suggested that the Forum, in a statement banning open grazing in security challenges. and other demands. the president of the nation presidency should rotate yesterday by its Chairman, their respective states via the "We call on governors, Zulum reiterated his but I want to say the right between the North and the Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, promulgation of anti-open lawmakers and critical support for the South to thing,” he said. South every eight years until commended the 17 Southern grazing laws, adding that stakeholders from other produce the president in Zulum stated that the the country’s democracy has governors for their decision. the country must move with regions to support these 2023. prohibition of herders from matured to a level that the He said: "As much as we the tide of modernity. patriotic initiatives of the The Borno State governor, grazing openly in some selection of the country’s believe that competence and Meanwhile, the PDP Southern Governors’ Forum who spoke on a live states would not work president would be based not regionalism should be Caucus in the National in the interest of security of television programme, until insecurity and the purely on merit. the watchword in who Assembly yesterday lives and property in our however, cautioned against socio-political and economic According to him, becomes the president of reaffirmed its support for the dear nation," it added. the use of “must” when such dimensions of the crisis are Nigeria’s democracy is still any nation, we need to establishment of state police The caucus agreed with the matters are raised. addressed. evolving, hence the need for also be circumspect of our as well as other measures position of the governors in He said there should According to him, the power to be rotated between ethnic and political pluralities adopted by the Southern rejecting the three per cent be more robust discourse socio-political and economic the North and the South. and think of the best way governors to ensure the of the share of oil revenue concerning such issues. dimensions of the insecurity He argued that by the to further unite us.” security of lives and property to the host communities as He added: “I have said it in the country as well as time Nigeria’s democracy He said insecurity, in their respective states, passed by the Senate in the times without number that the insurgency war in the is fully matured, nobody secessionist agitations including those curtailing Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) I, Prof. Babagana Zulum, North-east, which is fast will be interested in where and others had worsened unauthorised movements and and supported the five per I am of the view that the spreading to other parts the president comes from Nigeria's division and occupation of forest areas. cent as passed by the House presidency should go to of the country must first as every election will be stressed the need for the The Senate Minority of Representatives.
UNICEF URGES MORE PROTECTION FOR CHILDREN, SCHOOLS, SAYS 950 ABDUCTED in captivity. condemn these crimes, not as the region is on the brink Association of Nigeria negligence.” know that government and UNICEF said on July 5, when millions of children of catastrophe.” (CAN), Kaduna State He added that the action the parents can do nothing 2020, 150 students were face a worsening protection Parents of kidnapped Chapter, Rev. John Hayab, of the school matron to them,” Hayab said. reportedly abducted from crisis. Children living in pupils accuse Kaduna school who spoke yesterday on and the school authority Narrating the ordeal of his a school in Kaduna State, these areas need concerted of negligence ARISE NEWS Channels, the compounded the African son during the kidnapping, marking the latest incident action to ensure that they can Meanwhile, people whose broadcast arm of THISDAY challenge, where parents Hayab said his 16-year- old in an alarming spate of safely live and go to school children and wards were Newspapers, confirmed that do not take their children son was among the few that attacks against children or fetch water without fear kidnapped from Bethel the pupils got a letter on seriously, even when they escaped when the bandits and abductions, including of being attacked or taken Baptist High School in Sunday from the bandits. are saying something struck. of students, in parts of West from their families.” Kaduna on Monday have According to him, the serious, just because they He, however, said and Central Africa. According to Fore, accused the school authorities pupils showed the letter to are children. he would not disclose Fore added that such non-state armed groups of complacency and their patron, who dismissed He advised parents and everything his son told him incidents appeared to be and all parties to conflict negligence, for not taking the threat letter and accused teachers to always listen because the government had increasing in frequency, committing violations of action to beef up security them of being unnecessarily to children, respect them already started denying raising fears for the safety children’s rights – have a around the premises, after afraid of writing their and take them seriously some of the things that and well-being of the moral and legal obligation receiving a threat letter from examinations that were whenever they lodge happened when the pupils region’s children. to immediately cease attacks bandits, planning to kidnap supposed to start the next complaints. were kidnapped. Citing the latest report against civilians and to the pupils. day. He said: “Apart from of the United Nations respect and protect civilians The bandits, last Sunday, He said the pupils also being the CAN chairman of Secretary-General on and civilian objects during sent a threat letter to the took the letter to the matron Kaduna State, I am a parent children and armed conflict, any military operations. school, announcing their of the female students and and my child attends the UNICEF said one in every Fore also urged them not plan to kidnap the pupils got the same reaction from school and I am also a pastor three child victims of grave to impede but facilitate the on Tuesday, but brought her. in Baptist Church, which was violations had been in West, efforts of UNICEF and other forward the timeline by a He said: “Instead of the reason I sent my son and Central Africa. humanitarian actors working day when they kidnapped Tuesday, the bandits struck who is in SS3 to that school. It also highlighted the to reach vulnerable children. over 149 pupils, while 28 on Monday and kidnapped “So, if the expression of TOP GAINERS NGN NGN % attacks on civilians and other She said: “The international were said to have escaped. several students, which I see concern can rescue those in CUTIX 0.33 3.63 10 violations of international community also has an The parents who formed as negligence on the part of captivity and put an end to humanitarian law in Burkina important role to play. different prayer groups in the the school authority, who kidnapping, then kidnapping JOHNHOLT 0.10 0.67 9.8 Faso, Cameroon, Central We need our donors to school compound yesterday, had been pre-informed of the would have long ended in UPDC 0.10 1.13 9.7 African Republic, DRC and increase their contributions called on God to intervene plan to kidnap the students. Kaduna State and in other TRIPPLEGEE 0.07 0.91 8.3 Niger Republic. so that we can expand our and protect their children “The distance between states of the federation.” UNICEF said: “Meanwhile, work to reduce children’s and wards in captivity. the school and the police According to him, the CORONATION 0.03 0.59 5.3 in Nigeria, the UN estimates vulnerabilities and increase They said they had to station in that area is current demand for food TOP LOSERS NGN % that at least 950 students their resilience to keep them go spiritual because they about one kilometre and items by the bandits, without BOCGASES 0.85 7.70 9.9 have been abducted from safe from harm. These had lost confidence in the the distance between the talking about ransom, their schools by armed men efforts include creating government in protecting school and the divisional showed that the bandits BERGPAINTS 0.95 8.90 9.6 since December. Over the safe temporary learning lives and property. police headquarters in the were confident that nobody, COURTVILLE 0.01 0.21 4.5 past six weeks alone, nearly environments for children They also blamed the state is between six and including the government, JAPAUL 500 children were abducted in areas where schools Kaduna State Governor, seven kilometres. I cannot could bring them to order. 0.02 0.49 3.9 in four separate incidents have been closed because Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, for understand why the school “If the bandits are on UNITYBANK 0.02 0.55 3.5 across the central and North- of insecurity, providing not doing enough to rescue authority could not take the run, they will not be HPE Nestle Nig Plc ₦1,540.00 west parts of the country. psychosocial support to kidnapped pupils. the threat letter serious asking for food items like Many of these children have children affected by violence, They said the show of and inform the police for rice, beans, garri, and oil to Volume: 296.098 million shares not yet been returned. It is and supporting education expression of concern by necessary action feed students in captivity. Value: N2.562 billion hard to fathom the pain and on mine risk awareness." the state government and “As a Baptist school, The best they can do is to ask fear that their families and According to her, every the federal government was owned by the Baptist for ransom, but instead of Deals: 4,507 loved ones are suffering in effort must be made to not enough to bring back Church, I think the church ransom, they are demanding As at yesterday 7/7/2021 their absence. reverse the spiraling their children and wards. should investigate the for food items. They make “It is not enough to protection crisis for children Chairman, Christian school authority for their these demands because they See details on Page 37 THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY 9 10 THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY 11 12 THURSDAY, ˜ͺͺ˾THISDAY NEWS Boko Haram, Bandits, More Deadly Than Separatist Groups, Umar Tells FG John Shiklam in Kaduna while hundreds of people exaggeration of the security occurrence. Most economic citizen or group to express the units, if only because it were being murdered, threat Kanu and indeed IPOB activities, particularly farming, desire for self-determination, provides a security umbrella A former military governor of maimed and kidnapped for posed to the nation's security which is the mainstay of the the use of violence should to all its units. Kaduna State, Col. Dangiwa ransom every week. and unity”. people in these areas are now not be supported or condone. “None of them will fare Umar (rtd), has blasted the He also added that millions “It is quite strange and all but impossible. “IPOB and its leader may better in a balkanized Nigeria federal government over of people have been rendered disturbing that the federal “Government's earlier claim well be responsible for some due to their similar diversities. the security situation in the internally displaced, facing government is according of having technically defeated of the violence, including the “The recognition of Nigeria country, saying it is strange disease and starvation. undue attention to the threats the Boko Haram insurgency murder of security personnel, as the giant of Africa is not on that the government is Umar said bandits have of separatist movements in in the North-east has turned arson and destruction of public account of its huge oil wealth according undue attention abducted over 1,000 school contrast to the more daunting out to be empty propaganda”, and private properties for but its size, diversity as well to the threats by separatist children in the North in the ones posed by bandits, he said. which they should be held as other potentials”. movements despite the more past eight months, adding kidnappers and insurgents Umar maintained argued to account. Umar argued that the daunting security issues posed that over 300 others are still in the North-west, some that contrary to this claim, the “We must however be nation can only remain united by bandits, kidnappers and in captivity, with the bandits parts of North-central and enemy had transformed into a honest enough to identify the and prosperous when all its insurgents in the North. demanding humongous North-east. more determined and deadly cause of the current growing citizens and the component In a statement issued ransom payments. “Hundreds are being force, threatening to overrun restiveness in the South-east”, parts feel a true sense of yesterday in Kaduna, Umar He noted that the recent murdered and maimed the whole of the North-east. Umar added. belonging. asked the federal government re-arrest of the IPOB leader every week. Many more are He said, “For the average He called on the government “Without it, the nation's to go beyond the arrest of was greeted with a loud sigh kidnapped for ransom”. northerner living in these to deploy non-violent means unity will be in serious the leader of the Indigenous of relief and celebration in He lamented further that zones, who is barely aware in addressing the problem jeopardy similar to what People of Biafra (IPOB), Mr. some sections of the country. millions of people have been of the activities of separatists, of people agitating for self- Nigeria is currently Nnamdi Kanu, and pay greater Umar said the arrest rendered internally displaced, banditry, kidnappings and determination. experiencing. attention to the more serious also elicited congratulatory facing disease and starvation. insurgency are of greater Umar said it was self- “Truth be told, the Buhari’s security challenges threatening messages to the federal “Over 1,000 school children threat and concern to him.” evident that justice, fairness administration has so far to cripple the country. government, which appears were abducted in the past 8 He argued that the arrest and equity are the best means exhibited poor skills in its According to him, the overwhelmed by the months with over 300 still of Kanu was of no serious of building a united and virile management of our diversity. activities of bandits and intractable security challenges in the hands of the bandits consequence since it did nation, particularly one as “Yet it has the benefit insurgents have resulted in and in dire need of any and kidnappers demanding nothing to ameliorate this diverse and fragile as Nigeria. of great examples by past the evacuation of over 20 redeeming act. humongous ransom payments. harsh and brutal condition. “It is my long-held belief administrations and statesmen, per cent of the villagers in He described the “Rape of women and young He said however that in that this country is more which should guide it,” he North-west and North-east, development as clearly an girls has become a daily recognising the right of every beneficial to all the federating added. N’ASSEMBLY INCREASES EXTRA BUDGET BY N86.9BN TO N982.729BN vaccine programme would be Office of the National Security for contribution to the issuance of Eurobonds. entrusted with the billion. sourced through World Bank Adviser – N17,000,000,000; development fund for capital He added that the proceeds management of the funds to “I just want to state that loans and grants. Department of State Services expenditure for the year of the $6.183 billion would ensure prudent application to the projected debt-to-revenue He added that the balance – N17,500,000,000; National ending on December 31, 2021. be used to fund various projects nationwide. ratio in the report is 43 per of N37.93 billion is to be Intelligence Agency – specific capital projects in Buhari, in a request letter cent. Which, of course, we sourced from Special Reserve/ N4,870,350,000; Economic and Senate Approves sectors ranging from power, dated May 18, 2021, and read know Nigerians all have Levy Accounts comprising: Financial Crimes Commission $6.183bn External transportation, agriculture and at Senate plenary on June 2, concerns about the actual TSA (Foreign currency (EFCC) – N3,500,000,000; and rural development, education 2021, had asked the Senate to debt-to-revenue ratio in 2019 component) – N25 billion; National Agency For the Loan Request and health, as well as the approve N2.3 trillion external was 58 per cent. So, this is MOFI CHQ optional – N5 Control of AIDS (NACA) – Meanwhile, the Senate provision of counterpart loan to fund the 2021 budget an improvement over 2019. billion; and Foreign Revenue N1,685,000,000. has approved the federal funding for multilateral and deficit. In 2020, the ratio was up E-Collection – N30 billion; 65 Under the Federal government's request for bilateral projects, defence and FG to fund N5.62tn deficit to 85 per cent. So 2022 is a per cent Wheat Flour Levy Ministry of Health, the $6.183 billion (N2.343 trillion) water resources. in 2022 budget with external significant improvement.” – N15 billion; 5.15 per cent sum of N2,800,000,00 was as external borrowing in 2021 He stated that the final loans. She explained that the Wheat Grain Levy – N15 approved for the procurement Appropriation Act. terms and conditions – the The federal government MTF FSP describes the billion and Rolled-Over Capital of molecular laboratory It also directed the Minister interest rate and tenors in the has approved the 2022 - 2024 federal government's socio- (unspent) – N5 billion. equipment to hospitals of Finance, Budget and case of Eurobonds – can only Medium Term Expenditure economic and developmental He added that the balance (N300 million); National National Planning, Mrs. Zainab be determined at the point Framework and the Fiscal objectives and priorities for of N722.40 billion, which Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi Ahmed; the Director-General of issuance of the bonds and Strategy Paper (MTEF & FSP), the reporting period of 2022 is for capital expenditure (N300 million); National Eye of the Debt Management Office would be subject to market authorising the funding of an to 2024 as well as the fiscal on the procurement of Centre, Kaduna (N300 million); (DMO), Patience Oniha, and conditions prevailing at the N5.26 trillion budget deficit strategies to be put in place, additional equipment for the National Fistula Centre, the Governor of the Central time of issuance. in 2022 through external and policies to achieve in the security agencies and capital Abakaliki (N300 million); Bank of Nigeria, (CBN), Mr. According to him, the borrowings. priorities. supplementation would be National Fistula Hospital, Godwin Emefiele, to submit to primary listing of the bond Minister of Finance, Budget Ahmed stated that sourced from new borrowing. Sokoto (N300 million); Federal the National Assembly within will be on the London Stock and National Planning, Mrs. the report to the council Barau stated that the Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, 10 working days (excluding Exchange while the secondary Zainab Ahmed, told journalists highlighted the key drivers committee, in line with the Calabar (N300 million); the day of close of trading), listing will be on the Nigerian yesterday after the Federal of government's revenue and harmonised position with University of Nigeria Teaching a letter containing the United Stock Exchange and Financial Executive Council (FEC) the spending plans. its House of Representatives Hospital (N300 million); States dollars amount so raised Markets Dealers Quotations meeting that her ministry She said they had also counterpart recommended Federal Medical Centre, and received as a result of (FMDQ) Securities Exchange. presented a memo to FEC presented to the federal an upward review of the Asaba Annex, Aniocha (N300 the approval together with The Senate, while adopting with a 2022 projected revenue government the projected funding of some security million) and FMC Nguru the applicable exchange rate. the resolutions of the of N6.54 trillion and N2.62 revenues for the 2022 to 2024. agencies that were grossly (N400 million). The external borrowing is Committee on Local and trillion to accrue to the She said she provided to underfunded or not funded In addition, N6,715,338,874 expected to be sourced through Foreign Debt approved the Federation Account and VAT, the council, a macroeconomic in the supplementary was approved for the the issuance of Eurobond issuance of $3 billion but not respectively. background, which affirmed Appropriation Bill. procurement and installation of in the international capital more than $6,183,081,643.40 She added that the revenue that the Nigerian economy He listed the agencies to new oxygen plants nationwide market. Eurobond in the international is projected to increase in 2023 has recovered from a negative include the Nigerian Navy, and repairs of oxygen plants The approval by the Senate capital market for the to N9.15 trillion. growth of 1.8 per cent in 2020 Ministry of Police Affairs, in FCT hospitals; and was sequel to the consideration implementation of the new She said: “We also reported to 2.5 per cent. Defence Intelligence Agency, N60,728,332,500 for vaccines of a report by the Committee external borrowing of to the council the budget She added that inflation Department of State Security procurement cost (Federal on Local and Foreign Debts. N2,343,387,942,848, for the deficit and the financing has moderated from a Services (DSS) and Economic Government of Nigeria Presenting the report, financing of part of the items for the expenditure. The 19-month-high in two months, and Financial Crimes Funding – $298,500,000 for Chairman of the Committee, deficit, authorised in the 2021 budget deficit that is projected while it's now moderated Commission (EFCC). 29.85 million Johnson & Senator Clifford Ordia, said Appropriation Act. for 2022 is N5.62 trillion, up in two months now, that is A breakdown of the Johnson vaccines. in considering the president’s It also approved that the from N5.60 trillion in 2021. coming down to 17.93 per capital expenditure for Of the total sum of request, the committee noted amount authorised may be "This amount represents 3.05 cent. Ministries, Departments and N982,729,695,343 billion the serious concerns of raised from multiple sources per cent of the estimated She said the key macro Agencies of government in passed, N123,332,174,164 Nigerians about the level of as may be available. GDP, which is slightly above assumptions that were the supplementary budget billion is for recurrent (non- sustainability and servicing of In his remarks, the Senate the three per cent threshold presented and approved by shows that N8,500,000,000 was debt) expenditure; and Nigeria’s external borrowing. President, Dr. Ahmad Lawan, that is specified in the Fiscal the council was that crude approved for the Ministry of N859,397,521,179 billion “Due to the shortfall in said that the approved external Responsibility Act. The FRA oil benchmark price would Police Affairs; N22,586,121,511 as contribution to the our annual revenues in borrowing was not a fresh loan empowers Mr. President to be $57 per barrel of crude oil for the police; N33,673,461,231 development fund for capital relation to our need for rapid by the Buhari administration exceed the threshold if, in for 2022, crude oil production for the Defence Headquarters; expenditure. infrastructural and human but a request captured in the his opinion, the nation faces of 1.8 8 million barrels per N207,543,863,993 for Also yesterday, the House capital development, we had 2021 Appropriation Act passed national security threats. And day, and exchange rate of the Nigerian Army; Committee on Appropriation, to pass deficit budget every by the National Assembly last it is our opinion on fact N410 to one US dollar, an N157,780,421,836 – Nigerian in its report presented by the year requiring us to borrow year. agreed that we can exceed. inflation rate of 10per cent Navy; N239,477,882,473 Chairman Hon. Muktar Betara, to finance the deficit in our He, however, tasked “The deficit is going to in 2022, and a nominal GDP – Nigerian Air Force; increased the budget size to budget,” he stated. committees of the National be financed by new foreign of N149.369 trillion. N43,326,943,687 – Defence N982,729,695,343, representing Ordia explained that the Assembly to carry out strict borrowing and domestic Also, Special Adviser to Space Administration and an increase of N86.9 billion new borrowing was calculated oversight on the application borrowing, both domestic the President on Media and N16,887,229,426 – Defence to Buhari’s proposal. at the exchange rate of $1/ of the loans to ensure that and foreign in the sum of Publicity, Femi Adesina, said Intelligence Agency. Betara said N123,332,174,164 N379, and raised from multiple they are strictly applied to N4.89 trillion on privatisation FEC approved the Ecological Others include: Nigeria was for recurrent (non- sources – multilateral and the implementation of the proceeds of N90.73 billion Fund Projects for the third Security and Civil Defence debt) expenditure, while bilateral lenders through the 2021 budget. and drawdowns from existing and fourth quarters of 2020 Corps – N14,822,575,648; N859, 397,521,179 was Lawan urged MDAs project tied loans of N635 in many states. THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY 13 14 THISDAY • THURSDAY, JULY 8, 2021
Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA COMMENT Email [email protected] DEEPENING NATIONAL CONVERSATION AMONG Y OUTH Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker of the House of Reps, gives account of his service to the people, writes Eze Ude hey came ready to fire on all cylinders. Their guest, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon Femi strengthen the confidence of investors both local and foreign. Planning Gbajabiamila was well prepared. Always ready like a boy for development purposes also becomes easier as many policymakers scout. The interview team is not your regular anchors of and other stakeholders are sure of the budget circle. prime-time talk shows. They are young, bright professionals The constitution amendments process that was triggered by the who are carefully selected to engage the speaker on various ninth National Assembly was also mentioned as yet another feat of the Tissues. One of the daughters of late Chief MKO Abiola, Rinsola was current leadership. Contentious, vexatious issues were debated at the among the interviewers. various public hearings across the nation. The process was to enable the Their generation has plenty of unanswered questions. They were drafters of the constitution to accommodate interests and concerns of not here when Nigeria was working. When less than N6,500 can buy ethnic, socio-cultural and other groups. a brand new Peugeot. When 70 kobo exchanged for one dollar. When The quest for equitable and fair Nigeria where all regions will get it cost a paltry N500 to fly to London. They were born into a state of their due entitlement under a true federal structure is of paramount anomie and utter confusion that consequently shaped their views and importance to the Gbajabiamila House. That will be the legacy that perceptions about the land. will endure. The ethnic irredentists and separatists will recoil into their The upheaval of #EndSARS imbroglio of last October that headlined recesses when fairness and justice reign across the land. the social ills plaguing the nation was one of the outlets of outrage for The role of the House in the war against the COVID-19 pandemic disillusioned young people. Though, knee-jerk measures were rolled out was another highpoint of the interview. The relative success in the by the government to assuage the irate youths, visionary leaders like containment of the deadly plague would have been an impossible Gbajabiamila know that lessons of such unprecedented historic events mission without the collaboration and unflinching support of the must not be lost on us. legislature. For Gbajabiamila, it means the national conversations need to be The necessary legislations that will facilitate the containment drive deepened and more youth-inclusive. During the turmoil, the speaker were hurriedly legislated in the nation’s interest. Approvals for funds to was at the forefront providing leadership to the beleaguered youth frontline health workers also got accelerated attention. demographic. So, the last widely-televised chat with young people was The summary role of the legislator according to the speaker are; yet another effort at letting the youth in on various interventions of Lawmaking, oversights and to attract federal government attention government especially the National Assembly feats in the last two years to members’ constituencies. On that score, the people of Surulere can of the ninth Assembly. testify to the doggedness of the speaker in attracting federal projects to The session gave the speaker a unique opportunity to give a steward- them. From Bishop street to Olufemi Street in Akerele, off Ogunlana ship account of his service to the people. He hinted on his determination Drive, Gbaja facilitated the reconstruction of many roads with road to change the legislative narrative from the onset. According to him, infrastructure in Surulere. though the House plays the constitutional role of checks on the executive Education sector is paramount to him. Scores of secondary schools arm of the government, it was not an acrimonious, ‘pull it down’ in his constituency got ICT Innovation centres. Tertiary institutions in oversight role. Lagos also got landmark projects. After all, the essence of government, both executive and the On the much-anticipated amendment to the Electoral Act, barring legislature, is to ensure a better life for the citizenry. Therefore, a strained other unforeseen development, the Speaker assured that it will be executive/legislature relationship will only worsen the situation. The passed before the end of this month. respect of other members he enjoys made him set a bipartisan agenda A question on the huge debt burden of the nation which according to for national development. one of the young interviewers could mortgage the future of the youth On the achievements of the Green chamber under him, the speaker was also tackled by the speaker. According to Gbajabiamila, all nations admitted that assessing the performance of lawmakers is usually difficult in the world explore credit facilities to expand infrastructure that will since legislators’ achievements appear intangible unlike the executive that drive economic growth. builds roads, bridges and the rest. Though, the work can’t be touched or Jobs creation and economic prosperity cannot be stimulated without felt but the stability of the polity and economic prosperity for the people infrastructure. Industries both large and cottage including small and depend largely on the pieces of legislations promulgated by the National medium scale businesses require infrastructure to scale. He cautioned Assembly. that Nigerians can raise eyebrows if infrastructure construction were Forty-One bills have been passed in two years under the Gbajabiamila THE QUEST FOR EQUITABLE AND FAIR non-existent. The Buhari government is making giant strides in power, leadership. Out of the 853 bills considered within the period, 105 passed NIGERIA WHERE ALL REGIONS WILL GET rail, road and bridges construction across Nigeria. Last month, the second reading and 66 bills are awaiting actions by the committee. THEIR DUE ENTITLEMENT UNDER A TRUE President was in Lagos to commission the Lagos/ Ibadan rail, the Over 730 pro-people motions have been raised by members under speaker remarked. the same period. Over 163 petitions received by the House which were FEDERAL STRUCTURE IS OF PARAMOUNT The speaker also noted that the government through the Central transferred to the committee on public petitions for consideration. IMPORTANCE TO THE GBAJABIAMILA HOUSE. Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is intervening in terms of low-interest credit The return of the budget circle from January to December is another THAT WILL BE THE LEGACY THAT WILL facilities for those in the real sector of the economy like the Anchors landmark achievement of the current House. The new order will ENDURE borrower’s scheme of the apex bank. UBA AND THE APC CONTENTIOUS PRIMARIES There was no primary election in Anambra State on June 26, writes Chuks Collins
erhaps, many citizens, including party blunder. Funny enough the party is yet to recover in the entire Oko community did they perform the to wash off the mess that APC would find herself in leaders, governors and governors at from the problem till date. abracadabra called primary that Nwankwo, a son if things are allowed to stand? heart, senators and other categories of Curiously, in the Anambra case, INEC has spoken. of the soil who had his primary and secondary life There are other observed constitutional personal political actors do not know the aim or The Commission allied with the voice of the citizens, upbringing in the community, didn’t know? encumbrances that are viewed as unpardonable purpose for party primaries. How can that there was no primary anywhere in the state Without any premonition of the whole drama, issues to overlook. And any other party would someone or a bunch of highly-placed on June 26. Was it true that Gov Abiodun was sent Moghalu, Ngige and Nwankwo sent out monitors simply go to court and get APC disqualified for the Pcitizens trifle with the governorship primary to Anambra to extinguish the fledgling light of the who fed them minute by minute account of proceed- contentious primary. process of the All Progressives Congress (APC) that party some members like Chief George Moghalu, ings. And their individual situation rooms recorded a Else, the Zamfara experience is vehemently staring supposed to hold on June 26, 2021 in the entire 326 Sen Chris Ngige and others painstakingly worked no election situation in all parts of the state. Anambra APC in the face because of just one man. electoral wards of Anambra? to establish? Is it not shocking that having given Unfortunately, it’s doubtful if any of them Abiodun need to apologize to the party, Anambra Person after person had returned same report, the once non-existent party in the geopolitical zone forwarded those minute minding reports to the citizens and the nation for the mess. that no one visited any of the designated centres two states in Imo and Ebonyi, and now rearing WhatsApp or any other social media network of the However, acting a bit unfazed about the tension mapped out for the event on the said date. Yet, a to add Anambra apparently in preparation for the party at either the state or national headquarters. and discontent within the party over his purported sitting governor, who travelled many kilometres to 2023 presidential bid by the zone, someone would Because that would have greatly enhanced the triumph at the poll over all others, and some of Anambra (perhaps for the first time in his life) on consciously erase all those hard work on the altar of ongoing appraisal of all that transpired on June 26, his political honchos stormed the State Working the headship of the special panel constituted by the party primary election? 2021. And from media reports, it would be nunc Committee meeting of the party the next day, the party to supervise the primary sat comfortably in The who is who in APC in the state have said in dimittis to APC in the state and the geopolitical zone chairman, Chief Basil Ejidike also acknowledged the his Golden Tulip Hotel room to read out what was diverse ways that no primary election held in any if the fraud of June 26 is allowed to stand. existence of “some hitches in the primary election.” prepared and handed over to him! of the 326 wards of the state on June 26, including It’s funny that while the Independent National He went on to observe that the Gov Abiodun The experience rattled not just his other 13 Andy Uba’s Uga ward of Aguata Local Government Electoral Commission (INEC) in a report by its Committee has done its job for which they came, opponents, including even those he allegedly Area of the state. Sen Ngige said it, Moghalu said Election and Party Monitoring (EPM) department, and left. purchased the nomination forms for. Their shock was it, Dr Chidozie Nwankwo said it and Chief Azuka testified that contrary to the results announced by Consequently in his remarks to the SWC, Uba simple and understandable. Just like one of them Okwuosa said so too. The whole 13 other aspirants the Abiodun-led Anambra Governorship Election urged the party to assist reconciliation, so that all confided in his political associate, ‘I know it was were firm on it. No election of any sort held in any Committee, no primary held in the state on June 26. the remaining aspirants should comeback under going to happen, but no one imagined that party part of the state that day. None till date could guess The INEC officials who signed the document the party so as to face the future, particularly the members would not be allowed to see the colour of the colour or size of the ballot papers/boxes. included Ibe U. Ibe who led the team; Nkechi fast approaching November 6 election as a united the ballot papers. The man had revealed that he was So, if that was the case, where did Gov Abiodun Abuh, (Assistant Director) and Modibo Bellel political family. invited to join on the team going to Imo State for arrive at the figures he read out? Who are the (Principal Executive Officer). The EPM stated that the He also extended the olive branch to all his the packaging of the result. The fear is that INEC is officers that worked with him? Where and where purported primary, which produced Senator Andy opponents, to come along in the spirit of a true watching, the world is watching, and the opponents did any of them operate that day? Who were the Uba as its winner, was non-existent. sportsman to join him to deliver the party in the are also watching. Can APC afford to gamble a local staff that worked with them? The report, which was submitted by the com- main governorship election in the interest of the second time? The party experienced this in Bayelsa, Who conducted or supervised the election in mission’s monitoring team who was officially sent whole party. Unfortunately, the pronouncements Rivers and Zamfara States. But the most sweeping Nnewi without Moghalu knowing or being allowed to monitor the APC primary didn’t mince words in from these aspirants since then were far from scenario occurred in Zamfara. The party went to the to cast his vote? Where did the official visit in Alor the report. So it’s now clear that someone is out to heeding his appeals. Any avid observer of Anambra election, won but lost it because it had no candidate. that Ngige never cast his vote? Where did the voting embarrass the Anambra State APC out of relevance politics actually knows there was ominous danger in And the runner-up suddenly became the winner and point in Oraifite take place that Okwuosa didn’t in the Nov 6, 2021 governorship election. the horizon. But a stitch in time, the elders say, saves the greatest beneficiary of that internal administrative know, and wasn’t allowed to cast his vote? Where Again, what manner of detergent would be used nine! THISDAY • THURSDAY, JULY 8, 2021 15 EDITORIAL ELECTRICITY DEFICIT IN NIGERIA
Nigeria should go for an integrated approach to electrification
y 2030, which is just nine years away, the create jobs and wealth for the country. Furthermore, the United Nations will take stock of how its bank noted that among the 20 countries which have huge member nations, including Nigeria, have electricity access deficits, three of them – Bangladesh, fared in accomplishing its Sustainable Kenya, and Uganda – have improved immensely in their Development Goals (SDGs). A portion push to cut down the numbers since 2010. of the SDGs up for such assessment is In truth, Nigeria has never lacked ideas or policies, Goal-seven, which focuses on improving but the nerve to implement and follow through them. universal access to affordable and reliable Commendably, the current government of President electricity to all people. Like other countries, Nigeria will be Muhammadu Buhari has initiated remarkable policies Bassessed on this as well. But there are already manifest indi- that could drive up national electrification and cut down cators to suggest that the country could fail this assessment. access deficit using renewable energy. But it has also failed Two weeks ago, the World Bank listed Nigeria among three to seamlessly link its electrification policies. Nigeria is countries with the largest electricity deficits in the world. It is failing to advance its electrification plans and cut access another confirmation of how unserious Nigeria has become deficits because the government is uncertain on how to in resolving her unstable electricity supply debacle. proceed; it is either cheering or fighting private power Two years ago, the World Bank recorded that 89.63 investors. Such indeterminate policy approach will not million Nigerians – about 50 per cent of the country’s yield results. population then, were without electricity supply of any form. Today, that number has increased--a shame to a he government revamped the Rural Electrification country with immense energy potential, chiefly in solar, Agency (REA), and directly charged it with making hydro, and gas. During the last decade, according to the the most of renewable and off-grid based electricity World Bank, a greater systems to cut access deficit. It also leans its political NIGERIA IS FAILING share of the global Tback to REA’s funding hunts, working closely with the World TO ADVANCE ITS population gained Bank and credible multilateral entities to fund the agency’s ELECTRIFICATION PLANS access to electricity activities, but equally fails to reinforce the frameworks that THISDAY AND CUT ACCESS DEFICITS than ever before, but EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI could support REA to scale up. But by failing to adopt an BECAUSE THE GOVERNMENT the number of people DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI AJAYI, DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN, integrated approach to electrification, the country is losing without electricity in MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO grounds on the energy access fight. The absence of such IS UNCERTAIN ON HOW DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE TO PROCEED; IT IS EITHER sub-Saharan Africa CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI integrated approach to electrification is chiefly evidenced increased. Nigeria, the EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN in the way the Nigerian Custom Services classifies and MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE CHEERING OR FIGHTING Democratic Republic of processes imported renewable energy components. PRIVATE POWER INVESTORS Congo, and Ethiopia, Unlike Rwanda, Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda which are scaling up renewable energy adoption it explained, were the THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED countries with the biggest electricity access deficits on the EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA with the implementation of import waivers for renewable continent. GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, energy products, the cost of acquiring solar-PV systems ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI Beyond the social benefits of electrification for all, this DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS BOLAJI ADEBIYI, PETER IWEGBU, by rural consumers in Nigeria becomes increasingly also have implications on the economic wellbeing of ANTHONY OGED ENGBE exorbitant while energy access deficit surges. The UN Nigeria. In a separate report, the bank also indicated that DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI and other multilateral agencies consider decentralised SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH businesses in Nigeria lose up to $29 billion every year to ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI renewable energy (DRE) as the quickest way to cut energy unreliable electricity. In clear terms, this equally means CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI access deficits. It therefore rests on Nigeria to quickly push DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO that Nigeria’s economy lost this much to unstable power HEAD, COMPUTER DEPARTMENT PATRICIA UBAKA-ADEKOYA for an integrated approach to electrification, bringing its supply as its businesses struggle to access electricity to TO SEND EMAIL: first [email protected] key energy sources into the mix.
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ONE NATION, MULTIPLE DESTINIES…1
Continued from backpage the extent that equality before the law is the hallmark of a tions. It is the responsibility of President Buhari to focus our true democratic state, this is a very serious charge against the attention on how to confront those critical challenges. To do s I have argued in the past, the president may federal government. that, he must first understand that building a nation requires give the country the Lagos-Ibadan expressway We have so many challenges in Nigeria today. We are more than bricks and mortar. that successive administrations failed to do, getting to a situation in which parents may no longer be When certain ethnic or geopolitical groups within a which combined with the railway will ease sending their children to school because kidnappers now country feel that their people are alienated from opportunities transportation in the Southwest. He may suc- lay siege. Yesterday, the United Nations Education Fund or are discriminated against in the enforcement of law and ceed in completing the Second Niger Bridge. (UNICEF) raised concerns over abductions of innocent school order, whether justifiably or otherwise, the state weakens, and HeA may even complete the East-West road in the Niger Delta. children in parts of West and Central Africa. The statement progress becomes difficult. That then gives ethnic entrepre- While these would ordinarily be concrete achievements, they opened with the abduction on Monday of 150 students “from neurs the opportunity to build on fears and insecurity and may not make a difference in how the people perceive him a school in Nigeria’s Kaduna State”. One of them happens polarise the society. The environment becomes even more and his stewardship. As I have also said before, one can to be 14-year old son of a young man I know. In Nigeria, toxic when political memories and emotions are exploited to just picture how chaotic Lagos would be without the Third according to UNICEF Executive Director, Henrietta Fore, “the magnify anxieties and further divide along faultlines. That Mainland Bridge. General Ibrahim Babangida built it. That is UN estimates that at least 950 students have been abducted unfortunately is where we are in Nigeria today. not what Lagosians remember him for. from their schools by armed men since December. Over the Now that representatives of the political elite from the The most critical charge in the statement by southern past six weeks alone, nearly 500 children were abducted in Southern part of the country have joined the ever-growing governors is the one which “frowns at selective criminal four separate incidents across the central and northwest parts community of ‘Wailing wailers’, it is obvious we have a administration of justice and resolved that arrests should be of the country. Many of these children have not yet been problem on our hands. If we ignore the fact that they may made within the ambit of the law and fundamental human returned. It is hard to fathom the pain and fear that their be playing the politics of power shift, the subtext from their rights.” Since I was not at the meeting, I cannot state what families and loved ones are suffering in their absence.” statement, which should not be lost on the president is informed this charge. But the only two recent arrests that To compound our woes, the economy is in dire straits at a that he must begin to embrace a sense of justice which is could have provoked this statement is that of IPOB leader, period when millions of our young people cannot be produc- higher than routine legalism. This will entail reaching out to Nnamdi Kanu and his ‘Yoruba Nation’ counterpart, Sunday tively engaged. The national currency is on a free fall against critical constituencies that may feel alienated with words and Igboho. I doubt if this is an endorsement of what these two the dollar. Essential commodities, including foodstuffs, are gestures that renew the bonds of national solidarity. And, characters stand for or that they are above the law. It is more now almost out of reach for the average citizens. The health all things considered, I believe he should begin from the a rebuke of how some other people who equally threaten the sector has practically collapsed. To deal with these and other Southeast! peace of our country are treated by the security agencies. To challenges will require a unity of purpose and fewer distrac- Olusegun Adeniyi, Abuja 16 THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY 17 18 THISDAY ˾THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021
Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG POLITICS Email [email protected] (08114495324 SMS ONLY) ‘Nigerians in Positions of Authority Fail to Realise They are in Those Positions to Serve’ Nseobong Okon-Ekong holds a conversation with Mr. Joko Okupe, the Main Source of Mindshift; a new movement set to evangelise and educate Nigerians to change their mindset from ‘me’ to ‘we’ an you point to a few examples see themselves as “Lords and Masters” over of awkward ways the mind of the citizens. an average Nigerian works? I believe that a major root cause What do you think influences the of our problem as a nation is our thoughts of the average Nigerian on is- Cunprogressive mindset as Individuals, as a sues concerning the country? Is it religion, society and as a nation. A mindset is a set of ethnicity or personal welfare? beliefs or a way of thinking that determines It is all of the things you have mentioned. one’s behavior, outlook, and mental attitude. But the issue is not really those things you As we all know, mindsets influence the way we mentioned, rather, how the average Nigerian think, the way we do things and ultimately, our mindset works - in relation to ethnicity, religion, behaviour. Our wrong mindsets have brought or personal welfare. It’s just greed and self- about wrong orientation, eroded value system centeredness. If he thinks about ethnicity, or and a thwarted worldview of ourselves and religion, it is on how it benefits him and how issues. it improves his lot. It is about ‘Self.’ Although The way we have become, or should I say, there are some exceptions, there are still Ni- the way we have made ourselves, due to our gerians who are selfless, but the majority are wrong mindsets, has been coined “the Nigerian self-centered, and this drives their everyday factor”; a horrible phenomenon, which has given lives, and everything about them - whether in a shameful image of Nigerians as a people and government or in other spheres of life. When Nigeria as a country, with the rest of the world. Nigerians talk about religion it is not in respect In as much as there are many Nigerians doing to spirituality and service to God. It is as it great things the world over, these negative can be a tool to foster self-interest, mislead, mindsets and the attendant outcomes seem manipulate and oppress others. Our religious to drown the goodness of the country and leaders are also guilty of this self-centeredness. accentuate the ugly sides. Just watch their lifestyles against the standard There are many negative mindsets of Nigeri- Okupe of living of their followers. It all says the same ans across all social divides, rich, poor, educated, thing. Except for a few of them who are truly illiterate, young or old. If we are to catalogue the time and give the country a bad image. We see and enrolment is through open examinations, focused on serving God and humanity, others mindsets of Nigerians, it can be the subject of this “short cut” mindset at work everywhere. strict review, competition on equal opportu- are just using the platforms to enrich themselves a whole book. This is because wrong mindsets Another one is the “National cake mindset”, nity and merit-based selection. Promotion is and their families. This is the situation in all permeate almost every sphere of our lives. where Nigerians perceive appointments or a rigorous exercise based on performance. In our spheres of life. Be it in the family or home front, in business, opportunities to serve or represent their people, those countries, for anyone to serve in public in education, in relationships, just in about as their own chance or time to have their own positions, such must be first class brain. Nothing What do you think assures peace to everything we do. Because these mindsets are “share of the national cake”. One wonders less. What do we have in Nigeria? It is obvi- the average Nigerian – money, position majorly anti-progress, we can see indications of where the mentality behind the concept of ous. recruitment, retention and promotion are or power? continuous underdevelopment all around us as “Juicy Ministries” or “Juicy Appointments” based on the “Nigerian factor”, therefore, such The average Nigerian wants to be an oppres- visibly manifested in increasingly worsening comes from. Many complain when people from institutions cannot function as they ought to. sor – whether he’s a gateman or a managing governance, leadership standards. We now have their tribes, their relatives, or their associates If we are serious about development, we need director – he wants to be an oppressor. For more persons of low substance, who lack vision are not appointed into “Juicy Ministries or well- functioning public institutions that run him, it is all the above – money, position, and and purpose finding their way to positions of Departments”. This mindset traverses both on merit and excellence to drive the process power. He is not thinking of general peace leadership. What about our increasing culture the rivate and public sectors and is closely of implementation of policies. When merit but his own peace and security. He wants to of wastefulness, high level of poverty, and the linked with the tribalism mindset. is relegated in the process of recruitment in lord it over the next man. So, you go to a place list can go on and on. I’ll go on to highlight a The third mindset I’ll like to talk about is the such institutions, then the future is bleak and where a gateman unilaterally begins to decide few major mindsets that influence the behavior “Merit does not matter” mindset. In this case, development is just a mirage. who goes in and who comes out. He sets the of Nigerians at all levels. choices of appointments, job placements, asset The entire concept of the type of “Quota rules and does what he likes. You get to such The first one I’ll like to talk about is what I call acquisition, contracts awards and any other System” we practice and the method of a place to see his boss and he tells you; “sorry, “short-cut mindset”. Most Nigerians believe in decision are not based on merit, but on other implementation needs to be reviewed and sorry. He’s not available”. You cannot see him”. the short cut method to success. This makes our variables and sentiments, which sometimes overhauled, if we are to make any serious And you can’t reach him to know whether he’s people shun hard work, merit and all similar may include tribal, religious or family ties. progress. It sacrifices merit and promotes the available or not. And right there in your very positive values. Unfortunately, this mindset What do we get? Mediocrity, in high and low culture of mediocrity. Should it matter where own eyes, somebody else comes and asks for is further strengthened by the explosion of places. We see mediocrity all around us. Square capacity is available? the same person and the gateman will open the seemingly successful people, who achieved pegs are put in round holes in both public The last one I’ll like to talk about is “You’re door and let them in. This oppressor mentality the so-called success by taking the short cut and private sectors. Excellence is sacrificed under me” or “I’m your master” mindset of the in Nigeria cuts across every class. When some route. This mindset fuels laziness, lethargy, whenever you shun merit and you promote leaders. This mindset makes most Nigerians people do not have access to money, position immorality, exam malpractices, forgery of mediocrity. When mediocrity is enthroned, in positions of power, authority or leadership, or power, these traits are subdued in them. results/certificates, stealing, embezzlement, the house falls. This is very obvious in the power-drunk. They fail to realise that they are Once they have access to power, money or fraud, corruption, get-rich-quick syndrome, Nigerian situation. A well -functioning Public in those positions to serve people. Rather, they position, like when a driver becomes the ‘Chief amongst others, and it destroys the fabric of Service is a catalyst for the development and believe they are above the followers and these Driver’, you will see a different animal. This society. It makes people want to cut corners growth of any nation. When public officers followers are under them to be oppressed and is not supposed to be the case, but that is the wherever and whenever possible. People now are appointed on any other basis other than trampled upon. case, with very few exceptions. want money without working for it; want cer- ability, competence and capability, we all get Leadership across board have this wrong tificates without studying hard, some even messed up. In some countries of the world, mindset, especially the political leaders. They What do you wish Nigerians to under- want the certificates without seating for exams; only the best in education, qualifications and see the citizens as subservient to them and as stand about themselves that you think politicians want to win elections without the competence get recruited into the public service people they should push around. They actually they currently don’t? required hard work; employees want promotion I would appreciate Nigerians to know that without meriting it, etc. Worse still, some of our they are gifted and resourceful. They need to cultural values seem to support this mindset. I would appreciate Nigerians to know that they are know that they do not need excess wealth, One may believe that this mindset is pervasive position, or power to live the good life. They among the low-income group of society, who are gifted and resourceful. They need to know that they need to know that contentment is the juice of desperate for survival, but it’s not so. Experience life – that they should be content with what and observation indicate that the attitude that do not need excess wealth, position, or power to live they have, and also to be joyful in the process. stems from this mindset, cuts across all strata the good life. They need to know that contentment For the leaders or those that occupy political of society. Otherwise, what can we make of an positions, they need to know that the production executive, who already earns six figures who is the juice of life – that they should be content with and equitable distribution of public goods for cuts corners to get promotion? Or a top-grade the common good is the essence of politics contractor who bribes a Procurement Manager what they have, and also to be joyful in the process. For and leadership. Political office holders need to secure a juicy contract? Can we say these to know that they are in those positions to categories of people are desperate to survive? the leaders or those that occupy political positions, serve the citizens. Nigerians should hold one Definitely not! The gains people derive from they need to know that the production and equitable another up for the development of the country. the initial experience, fuels greed and increases In Mindshift we are set to evangelise and educate its propensity. It’s like the act of gambling, distribution of public goods for the common good Nigerians to change their mindset from ‘me’ which in itself, is a short cut. Once you win to ‘we.’ We should meditate on our national a jackpot, it lures you to want to keep trying. is the essence of politics and leadership. Political anthem and pledge and internalize the ideals This mindset promotes the ideology of “the office holders need to know that they are in those to direct our actions. end justifies the means” and spells disaster for the entire society. When some of our people positions to serve the citizens. Nigerians should hold NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the exhibit this mindset in sane societies outside of online edition on www.thisdaylive.com the shores of Nigeria, they get into trouble big one another up for the development of the country THISDAY ˾THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 19 POLITICS
‘Nobody Thought Ugwuanyi DISSENTING VOICE...IN HIS OWN WORDS Could Take Enugu IGR to It’s Unlawful to to N31 Billion Monthly’ Reconstitute the Senate Charlie Agbo, lawyer and Peoples Democratic Party Screened NDDC Board stalwart recently fielded questions from journalists including Nseobong Okon-Ekong on the achievements Jesutega Onokpasa, a Warri-based businessman raises alarm at the suggestion by some interest groups of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State to jettison the Board of the Niger Delta Development by the scenery as they drive through the Commission in-waiting which has been duly screened road, practically rediscovering Enugu. The impact of that road is far-reaching. by the Senate Not only does it open up hitherto hidden crevices to modernity, but gives practical access to the metropolis. It is the power of foresight because without that road, the new initiative of the governor to decongest Nike would have been impossible. That brings us to the flyover. This fly- over is in the right direction since the new gateway to and from Enugu northwards is now Nike. A flyover has therefore become not only desirable but inevitable. Look at Nike-Isi- Uzo road.It is a showcase of the power of road infrastructure. Most commuters now use the road en route the North because it bypasses Opi Junction. And the access it gives to road users to the Northern axis of the state is unbelievable. Thanks to Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Let us just say that he has delivered beyond Agbo expectation. It should simply suffice to say that he has excelled in road infrastructure overnor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi because I don’t know how much time you of Enugu State has clocked will allot to this interview that can allow six years in office. What me mention all the road projects he has is your impression of his across all the local government areas. stewardship? GIt will be fair to say that Governor Ug- The phenomenon of unknown gun- Akpabio wuanyi has lived up to the expectation of men lately entered our lexicon with the people of Enugu State who found him South-east experiencing their share n the buildup to the imminent inau- Given the pendency, at this very moment, worthy to be entrusted with leadership. of insecurity in the country. How does guration of a substantive board for the of a substantive board nominated by Mr. Six years down the road I would say that Enugu State fare in the area of security? Niger Delta Development Commission, President and, confirmed by the Senate, the he has done well for the people of Enugu Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi has made NDDC, a loud cacophony of rather same President, cannot then be misguided State. strides in the fight against insecurity that perplexing calls for the commission’s into assaulting the constitution and, break- When he assumed the mantle of leader- have seen Enugu in comparatively better boardI “to be constituted” this way or, “re- ing the law by purporting to constitute or ship, it was clear to him that revenue genera- station than other South-eastern states. constituted” that way have been shouted reconstitute the NDDC board and proceed to tion is the bedrock of any government. It His creation of Forest Guards has enabled over the rooftops by all manner of interest send a new list to the Senate all over again. was obvious to him that to fire at the pace him checkmate the upsurge of insurgency. groups from all manner of quarters. Needless to say, it would amount to a most he desired, he was not going to rely only He has donated hundreds of operational Yet, if one may ask, the board of which egregious constitutional abomination for on receipt from the Federation Account. vehicles to all the security agencies in the commission is supposed to be “constituted” the Senate, of all authorities, to undermine So what did he do? He did a quick rejig of state thereby enabling them complement or indeed, “reconstituted” for that matter? and embarrass itself by repudiating its own the revenue generating mechanism of the his crime fighting initiates. I will score The notion that the NDDC currently lacks earlier work and then proceed to consider state. This move saw the state’s internally him high in this area and most unbiased a substantive board is a dastardly lie from the any new list of fresh nominees, having generated revenue soar from a humble N14 observers in the state agree with this as- pit of hell itself and could only possibly ring already duly and honourable concluded Billion upon assuming office over the last sessment. true in a clime like ours where the peddling that process more than a year ago! six years to N31 Billion today. and maintenance of diabolical falsehoods There is already a substantive board of Having put a smart revenue platform How would you rate the governor has bizarrely claimed centrestage as some the Niger Delta Development Commis- in place, he set out to work. Road infra- in education? sort of national ethos. sion, NDDC, indeed one constituted by structure was an area he gave immediate The government is doing a lot in all the As far as the law is concerned the NDDC the President and confirmed by the Senate. attention. This initiative has yielded several levels of education in the state. At the already has a substantive board constituted For the avoidance of all doubt, short of road projects across the state. Some of them tertiary level, all the institutions under by no less an authority than the President, the entire board resigning even before it has are, the Opi- Nsukka Road which is a dual the care of the government are receiving Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic been inaugurated, or, its entire membership carriageway delivered to perfection and proper attention in terms of physical and and duly screened and confirmed by no kicking the bucket overnight, there is simply precision by one of the best engineering infrastructural development. The Insti- less an authority than the Senate of that no lawful means available to us for reconsti- companies in the industry, Obechara tute of Management and Technology is same republic! tuting that already existing board or, much Road Junction,Umuakashi Mechanic receiving attention by way of physical It is quite unfortunate that it required the like a bunch of kindergarten kids with no Village,Ikenga Hotels Junction,Enugu Road development. The same goes for Enugu intervention of Government Ekpemupolo, knowledge of the law, simply pretending it Nsukka Junction, Umuezebi-Nru Junction, State University of Technology and other aka Tompolo, to bring about a return to the doesn’t exist and constituting a fresh board! extension of Agbani-Afor Amuri Road, the higher institutions in the state. Almost all path of legality in the governance of the The legal mechanisms for constituting extention of Ituku Road, construction of the courses of study have received full commission, a situation which can only or reconstituting a board for the NDDC Ogonogoeji –Ndiakpugo Road, construc- accreditation from the relevant regulatory serve to reinforce the notion that without while a substantive board is pending are tion of 42 metre span Bailey Bridge over bodies due to prompt release of funds by violence or, at any rate, its threat, Niger not available because they simply do not River Nyama to Amichi, linking Umuogo the government. IMT for one prior to the Deltans should never expect justice within a exist in the first place. and Umuagba Amaechi Uno/ Obinagu coming of this administration never had Nigeria, whose development and sustenance We are not a banana republic for God’s community in Nkanu West Local Govern- convocation ceremony for so many years they have, pound for pound, by far been sake! ment Area. due to several logistical difficulties. All of the greatest contributors to. In other words, there is no lawful recourse Its important to point out that the that now belong to the past. This is even more pertinent against the for the President in the present circumstance Ogonogoeji-Ndiagu-Akpugo Road from At the primary education level, schools in backdrop of mounting nationwide insecuri- to “constitute” or “reconstitute”, such being Atavu Bailey Bridge to Afor Onovo is the Enugu are doing well. Teachers are recruit- ties, ever deepening divisions and quite actions he has already dutifully concluded first state government road in the entire ed, trained and retrained. ENSUBEB has unsettling sabre rattling from all points of in the eyes of the law. Akpugo since the creation of Enugu State. built and/or renovated over 480 classrooms the Nigerian compass. In short, there is no board to be constituted Within Enugu metropolis, there are over the last six years. Educational equip- That aside, the idea of “constituting” or or reconstituted; rather there is an already Holy Trinity Street, Bishop Michael Eneje ment, computers and other instructional “reconstituting” a board for the NDDC is a constituted, screened and confirmed board Street, Nawfia Street, Ibuza Street,Isi-Uzo material are provided. Schools are being complete nonstarter from the point of view waiting to be inaugurated! Street , Mount Crescent , GRA Enugu, given very serious face lift, making them of legality. There should be no further tolerance for Dental School-Tipper Garage Road, Trans conducive for our children to study in. The In the first place, the inauguration of any more subterfuges to delay the lawful Ekulu,Loma Linda-Timber Shed Road, etc. government is also augmenting with the the substantive board of the commission management of the NDDC and exclude Now, there is also Miliken Hill, that collaboration between ENSUBEB and UBEC is aimed at correcting a blatant illegality the Niger Deltan people from the legally historical road which over the decades to fund educational development. This it by bringing to a close its administration envisaged participation in the affairs of the has portended very grave risk to road users does by prompt payment of counterpart contrary to law, in which case, it certainly commission they are entitled to, through has been given the best engineering lift. funding to access needed funds. cannot be that it is purposed to correct an their representatives nominated by our Look at the Nike-Emene road. That road illegality by its replacement with another President and confirmed by the Senate. tore through Enugu from the Northern NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the illegality! There is already a substantive board of axis of Nike to the Eastern side of Emene. online edition on www.thisdaylive.com Surely, we cannot proceed to correct a the commission in-waiting and it should be Most indigenes of the state are astounded mistake by repeating the mistake! inaugurated first thing tomorrow morning. 20 THISDAY ˾ ˜ Ͷ˜ͰͮͰͯ
Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi FEATURES Email [email protected], Tel: 07010510430 The Admiral's Compass to Military Strategy, Maritime Security Chiemelie Ezeobi reports that An Admiral’s Compass: Reflections on Leadership, Military Strategy and Maritime Security’ authored by Rear Admiral Francis Akpan, retired, was targeted at impacting generations of naval officers, military officers and heads of maritime agencies
CNS, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo (fifth right); the author, Rear Admiral Francis Akpan, retired (sixth right) and wife; book reviewer, Mr. Ferdinand Agu (extreme left); and the Commandant, NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Makinde, and others at the book launch The CNS, author and others at the book launch
n a bid to impact generations of naval officers, people gloss over but which hold the key to the engage in military policing duties and projection the book will serve as a viable reference material military officers and other heads of maritime wellbeing of littoral states. Details on 'Operational of national power at sea enabling diplomacy and for academic research and I recommend it as a agencies, Rear Admiral Francis D. Akpan (Rtd) Excellence, especially the reflections on Maritime fostering national pride," he said. worthy companion for every naval officer". recently wrote a book titled “An Admiral’s Domain Awareness and funding options for the On the author, he described him as an accom- Compass: Reflections on Leadership, Military NN reminds me of daily events I encountered in plished naval veteran with decades of distinguished Reviewer's Stance Strategy And Maritime Security". my privileged position as CNS for over five years. military service involving numerous domestic and The book reviewer and former Director General, ILast Thursday, the book launch held at the "It was essentially a constant battle of having international engagements at sea and at shore. National Maritime Authority (NMA), now Nigerian Admiralty Conference/Event Centre, Naval 'to do much more with less. The third section "My personal interactions with the author date Maritime and Safety Administration, (NIMASA), Dockyard, Lagos. on 'The Admiral's Navy' focuses on manpower back to my tenure as the Commander Nigerian Mr. Ferdinand Agu, noted that An Admiral's According to the author, the book is meant to development which is necessary to achieve an Contingent ECOMOG where he served in the Compass - leads one through Nigeria's maritime set the course for those who will be responsible for optimal professional performance of personnel. Naval Task Force. Rear Adm. Akpan (rtd) also strategic thinking and maritime security issues. leadership nationally and those who will manage Generally, the insight from this book ties up served as Commander Naval Unit, Abuja while I According to him, "the growing insecurity in our the various maritime organisations, adding that splendidly with my vision as CNS which was, commanded the Brigade of Guards. The book is a maritime environment underscores the urgency "It’s like a plea to say that we have to cooperate 'To develop a credible naval power in fulfilment product of decades of professional and intellectual for effective domain awareness, greater capacity so we can have a conducive maritime environment of the NN's constitutional role towards enhancing military experience, therefore endorses the author's to confront and respond rapidly to threats and for the economy to thrive and for the country national prosperity and security! I am convinced capacity to engage objectively within the domains challenges. This book is the author's contribution to develop. that a navy's course set with the wisdom espoused of military leadership, strategy and maritime to his call for a national discussion on these is- “We cannot do anything without good leadership in this book would always lead to prosperous security," he said. sues; to create consensus around policy priorities, either in the services or within other maritime and safe habours." Magashi said that the publication serves as a implementing structures, funding and investment organisations, so we must fit in the right kind of In another commendation, Elder Uma .O Eleazu useful resource hub and credible repository of in organisations, training and equipment for robust leaders in the 21st century that we are.” wrote, "What does a compass do? An instrument information on leadership and maritime strategic protection of Nigeria's maritime space. The author also called for the adoption of showing the magnetic meridian and finding one's thought for students of military leadership, strategy "Beyond that, An Admiral's Compass is infor- grooming leaders from cradle as it is done in position in relation to it. With all the cacophony and maritime security. mative, authoritative and points the true north the Navy. "If we adopt this, we should be able going on as debate on National Security, both "I, therefore commend this laudable effort and for readers and leaders that value and demand to breed the kind of leadership we expect in the in moral or instrumental terms, one needs this encourage others to emulate same by contributing vision, professionalism and mature judgment in service and the nation at large from the counsellor book: An Admiral's Compass. It calls for clarity their quota to national security and development those charged with duties and responsibilities as to the president,” he added. and systemic approaches to security issues and through literary works. I commend the support of guardians of our maritime space." reorientation of our moral compass too." President Muhammadu Buhari for all scholastic He noted that the central message in the book is Foreword and other efforts aimed at enhancing national the call for all naval officers and maritime agencies In the foreword, former President Olusegun Book Launch defence and security," he added. involved with maritime security to adapt to change Obasanjo wrote, "An Admiral's Compass is a Recently, the book launch was held at Nigerian as maritime strategic thoughts evolve and practice reflection of works based on the experience of Navy Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos. It was Navy's Perspective of maritime strategy change with time a naval aviator, a seaman, war veteran, military a potpourri of events ranging from the cutting For the Chief Of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Agu also recalled the author’s enormous diplomat and two-star Admiral that is intended to of cake to speeches, book launch, speeches and Awwal Gambo, the publication was an informative contribution when he served in the then National share knowledge across the spectrum of personnel goodwill messages. and authoritative book that historically documents Maritime Authority (now NIMASA), to formalise in the military in particular and those that are Launching the book, the book presenter rep- issues surrounding the surveillance systems and the collaboration between NIMASA and the Navy. responsible for the management of the defence resenting the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, the maritime security within the country, adding that "it “We began with the Hydrographer of the establishment. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, highlights pressing issues in the maritime environ- Navy. Years later, Admiral Akpan, as Flag Officer "It is also intended to enlighten the larger Mr. Uko Udom, SAN described the author as an ment including suggesting and recommending Commanding Western Command engineered the members of security institutions and communities intelligent naval officer. steps, approaches and processes in ensuring that visionary expansion of that collaboration. with information on leadership, military/naval He recalled that when the Governor Udom the sovereignty of the nation remains firm and “His efforts culminated into a comprehensive strategy and maritime security as concepts. It Emmanuel put together a committee for the Ibaka unthreatened in the ocean. Memorandum of Understanding between the Navy will inspire the understanding of their various project, the retired admiral was the first name that "The objective of this book is to inspire funda- and NIMASA. That MoU provides a strong platform functions without the attendant clash of interest was mentioned to come on board. mental change in attitudinal approach to training for intra-sectoral collaboration and interagency between maritime military institutions. It avoids and reconcile the symbiotic relationship between cooperation, along the lines that Akpan insists, the duplication of national assets in the pursuit of The Minister's Recommendation training, education and experience". should drive our nation’s maritime governance. various mandates. Albeit, as a collective, under a In his speech, the special guest of honour, Minister Stressing that it would help develop leaders that central national coordinated effort, the aspirations of Defence, Major General Bashir Magashi (Rtd), could readily meet the challenges of the 21st century, About the Author for a better-secured nation will be achieved." said the researched publication would significantly he added that "this will help them explore viable Rear Admiral Francis D. Akpan (rtd) is the enhance the Nigerian Navy's effectiveness in the funding options for effective transformation of the Managing Director of Fradan Iquoson Services Commendations formulation of maritime strategy in the Gulf of Nigerian Navy as well as advocate cooperation Limited. He is a retired naval officer having served The book garnered so many commendations Guniea.Magashi, who was represented by Air Vice with other agencies and institutions to achieve as a Directing Staff at Armed Forces Command & including that of former Chief of Air Staff and Marshal Mohammed Idris, the Commandant, the nation’s maritime objectives. Staff College and the National Defence College. subsequently, Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre "Furthermore, it would inspire the development He has also served as a Defence Adviser to South Marshal Paul Dike. He wrote, "An Admiral's (NAFRC), said the publication comes at a time of effective strategies to the twin evils of piracy Africa, a Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Compass is an informative, lucid and authoritative when the nation and the entire globe is faced with and terrorism in our waters, amongst others. Relat- Command and Naval Training Command of the read that details the author's rich experience within a myriad of asymmetric security threats. edly, An Admiral's Compass offers a roadmap for Nigerian Navy (NN), amongst others. and outside the Navy and the Armed Forces of He said: "With the launch of the Deep Blue solving pertinent issues that continue to plague As a renowned researcher and speaker, he has Nigeria. It demystifies the concepts of military Project and other efforts to enhance security in the Nigerian Navy." addressed audiences across Africa and Europe, strategy, maritime strategy and security and the Gulf of Guinea, intellectual discourses and The CNS further stated that the naval space championing conversations on maritime security advocates for its domestication to suit Nigeria thoroughly researched publications such as this needed more authoritative and informative books and strategy alongside the improvement of the Military Operational Arts." is significant. This will significantly enhance the like 'An Admiral's Compass' given the constant operational effectiveness of the NN. Also, former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Nigerian Navy’s effectiveness as the vital agency need to beef up security strategies. He also posited As a multiple-award recipient, as well as Ibok-ete Ibas wrote, "On a personal note, An in the formulation of maritime strategy and lead that "writing a book is no mean feat especially for consultant for various organisations within and Admiral's Compass presents a variety lessons organisation for maritime domain awareness and a delicately poised subject like maritime security. outside the naval ecosystem, the author is an to me. For instance, the first section on 'Peace maritime security. "I must commend the author for putting together alumnus of the University of Ibadan where he and Security' reminds me of critical aspects of "The Armed Forces and the Nigerian Navy in series of proven strategies that he garnered in a obtained a Master of Science degree in Strategic military strategy and maritime security that most particular will therefore be required to creditably career that spanned decades. I am convinced that Studies.
THISDAY ˾ ˜ Ͷ˜ͰͮͰͯ 21 FEATURES Re-thinking North-east as Bauchi Hosts African Talent Show Azeez Mustapha
he Abubakar Tafawa Balewa stadium in Bauchi played host to a crowd of stars and starlets from June 26 to 27th. The event was the second edition of the African Children Talent Discovery Foun- dationT (ACTDF) talent hunt and mentoring programme being promoted by Noah Dallaji, an entrepreneur and philanthropist. In both essence and relevance, the event achieved two major objectives: Providing a platform for identifying talented young Nigerians in their teens by experts and legends who graced the occasion as resource persons and facilitators. The second import of the talent discovery show was that it held peacefully in an open place in Bauchi, north eastern Nigeria, without any security incident or even as much as a whiff of security threat. This not only proved that the north east is safe for all forms of socio-economic activities, it also dismantled long held notions that insurgency has cankered the entire north east zone and has rendered the states prostrate. Christened Engr. Noah Dallaji Legacy Project, the talent hunt covered football, music, entertainment and the arts. The purpose is to identify raw talents from the vast pool of young talented Nigerians, nay Africans, and painstakingly husband and nurture these talents into high flyers and global brands in their respective fields. Now in its second anniversary, this year’s edition featured mainly football during which young talents between ages 16 and 18 were auditioned under the supervision of Nigerian and international soccer legends. Ahead of the gathering of stars and would-be stars in Bauchi, Chairman of the foundation, Mr. Noah Dallaji, an engineer famed for philanthropy and avid sports promotions across the continent told journalists that the programme was in furtherance of ACTDF’s vision and mission to discover and develop Nigerian talents to solve some of the challenges of insecurity and other Noah Dallaji social ills bedeviling the Nigerian system, all of which when tackled will lead to the conquest against odds in many places, in ACTDF Ambassador. The initiative though national and club legend for England), are development of the country. diverse disciplines. And that’s because targeted at teenagers also served as a reunion grass to glory men on account of talent. They Nigeria boasts a preponderance of talented these latter day conquerors were at a time for living legends of African football most were spotted in their early years by scouts youths. And just like Pope John Paul II once discovered and their talents groomed. of whom made waves in Europe winning in much the same way Dallaji is helping said “artistic talent is a gift from God and In the case of the ACTDF initiative, Dal- critical trophies and being exposed to the best to spot Nigerian talents in diverse fields. whoever discovers it in himself has a certain laji has lined up a mixed cast of Africa’s training facilities under the best tacticians This is a noble cause worthy of laudation. obligation: to know that he cannot waste brightest and best in football. But for the of the Beautiful Game. Every great society is built by little acts of this talent, but must develop it.” There is Covid-19 pandemic and its associated travel Talent makes a way for those who discover kindness of the people; the privileged helping wisdom in the Papal message, to wit, talent restrictions, the likes of Ronaldo de Lima, theirs and nurture it. Dallaji, a well-travelled the less privileged; the strong strengthen- can be wasted if it is not discovered. And David Beckham and serial trophy-winning and highly exposed scion of Bauchi State ing the weak. It’s the aggregation of the once discovered, it must be nurtured. This manager Jose Mourinho would have graced knows it and he’s helping young Nigerians efforts of individuals that help to build the is exactly what the Dallaji initiative sets out the occasion in Bauchi. not only to discover their talent but to also superstructure called community, be it a to achieve: to help the young ones discover But the negative pandemic effect did nurture it. Football, in particular, has helped country, city, town or hamlet. their talent and to help them nurture such not dampen the spirit of the organisers. to alleviate suffering and poverty across the A successful businessman, Dallaji is help- talent for the betterment of society. From the rest of Africa, football prodigy world. Some notable football personalities ing to build a stronger Africa by helping Dallaji puts it succinctly: “It is important Lomana LuaLua, Stephen Appiah, Khalilou today were once persons from pauperized indigent but talented youngsters across Africa to develop the natural talent in order to Fadiga, among others berthed in Bauchi to homes and dingy communities. But their realize their dreams. He’s a man full of good maximize opportunities for a purposeful join Nigerian soccer outliers in the mould talents have turned their rags to riches. deeds. He has used his foundation to offer life. So this is what we have been doing to of Dan (The Bull) Amokachi, classy Austin Those who grew up in drugs and crime- scholarship to many young Nigerians; he has see how we can fill the gap of opportunities Jay Jay Okocha, wily Nwankwo Kanu, pacy infested communities who naturally would provided amenities like clinics and boreholes for the young ones in the country to make Garba Lawal, Trojan Taribo West and sturdy have taken to crime and criminality have to poor communities across the nation; he impact and be useful to themselves, their Austin Eguavoen, among others including been shooed off the path of infamy to the has through his Sister State Initiative with communities and the society at large. the Project Coordinator, lion-heart Emmanuel path of fame. Some successful Nigerian the city of Oakland, California, sponsored “Every man has something (talent) in Babayaro, who showed commendable project footballers who have played in Europe many young Nigerians on scholarship to him that can be activated to make the management skill putting up the event. and for Nigeria bringing honour for club the US. Totally detribalized, he has just person useful in life but this talent has It was two days of intense classroom and and country grew up in Ajegunle, a poor adopted some athletes proposed to him by to be discovered first and then developed. on-field work as those who made the finalists’ and crime-prone suburb of Lagos. Today, the Minister of Sports for sponsorship to I believe we did not come to this world list played side by side with the legends. though born into poverty, they no longer the Olympics. All this in addition to leading to be spectators rather we have come to The intention was to boost the morale and bear the marks of poverty. They have used many artistes and celebrities to attend several participate in the affairs of the world. courage of the young ones as well as afford their talent to redeem their families and UN functions in the US, Brazil etc. A very So you must try and discover why you the legends the practical opportunity to sift the families of many from the darkling busy bee, he is currently working with the came into this world. And immediately the highly talented from the average talents. grip of poverty. Nigeria Armed Forces to organise the next that happens, we begin to be useful not Those who were finally selected squared Other African players namely Samuel West African Military Games. only to ourselves but for the greater good up on the pitch where their mentors also Eto, Yaya and Kolo Toure, Stephen Appiah Above all, he has used the Bauchi talent of society”. served as their coaches before the crowd were all liberated from poverty by their show to demonstrate to the world that Indeed, there is a lesson to be learnt was treated to a novelty match between football talent. Across the world, top guns the north east is safe for big business and from history. There is no useless child. the Friends of Dallaji and Bauchi All Stars. like Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, mega-socio-economic activities. The flashes There is a tincture of heroism in every The plan was to take the finalists to the Ronaldo of Brazil, Carlos Tervez, Luis Suarez, of insurgency have been restricted to border being. Lionel Messi was born with a health ACTDF Academy in Abuja where they will Angel Di Maria (reduced to a gaunt, skinny communities, thanks to the renewed fighting defect yet he has surmounted it to become undergo further training and honing of skills lad at infancy because he could not feed spirit of the Nigerian troops. It’s time to one of the greatest and best footballers in before they are exposed to foreign clubs well) and Raheem Sterling, the Jamaican re-think the North East as a safe place to human history, triumphing over heavily for trials. migrant who with his poor parents could do business and host big shows. muscled men in a sport where brawn is While Amokachi served as Project Chair- not even afford basic accommodation in his often considered an advantage. We see such man, speed master Tijani Babangida is the early life but whom talent has turned to a t.VTUBQIBXSJUFTGSPN"CVKB 22 THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY THISDAY ˾ Ͷ˜ 2021 23
Group Business Editor Obinna Chima Email [email protected] BUSINESSWORLD 08152447875 ͱ˜ͰͮͰͯ MONEY MARKET REPO S & P INDEX S & P EXCHANGE RATE INDEX OBB 12 % CALL 20.50 % INDEX LEVEL ͳͱͱ˛ͯͱϱ 1/4 TO DATE ͮ˛ͮͱϱ Ͳͯͯ˛Ͱͳ˹ͯ ̩ OVERNIGHT 12.50 % 1-MONTH 14 % 1-DAY ͮ˛ͮͱϱ YEAR TO DATE -20.46 % ̩ Quick Takes IHS’ Lagos Innovates Centre Opens ÏÜÝÏÍÙ× Ó×ÓÞÏΘËØÏØÞÏÜÚÜÓÝÏÞÏÍÒØÙÖÙÑãÍÙ×ÚËØãÌßÓÖÎÓØÑÝßÝÞËÓØËÌÖÏ ËØÎÙáÏÜÝÙÖßÞÓÙØÝÐÙÜÐÜÓ͢ÒËÝÙÚÏØÏÎÓÞÝÖÙá̋ÍÙÝÞÍÙ̋áÙÜÕÓØÑÝÚËÍϘ ÕØÙáØËÝ ËÑÙÝ ØØÙàËÞÏÝÏØÞÜϘÓØÚËÜÞØÏÜÝÒÓÚáÓÞÒ ÓÑÏÜÓËÓØ ÖÓ×ÙÝÒÙ˜ ËÑÙݲ ÏÜÝÏÍÙ× Ó×ÓÞÏÎÖËßØÍÒÏÎÞÒÏÓØÓÞÓËÞÓàÏáÓÞÒÝÚÙØÝÙÜÝÒÓÚÐÜÙ× ÓÑÏÜÓË̋ÞÒÏ ÖËÜÑÏÝÞÝßÌÝÓÎÓËÜãÙÐ ÙáÏÜݘËØÎÝßÚÚÙÜÞÐÜÙ× ËÑÙÝÞËÞÏËÜÕÝËØÎ ËÜÎÏØÝÑÏØÍã̙ ̚ËØÎ ËÑÙÝÞËÞÏ×ÚÖÙã×ÏØÞÜßÝÞßØÎ̙ ̚˛ ÒÏÒßÌáËÝÍÜÏËÞÏÎÞÙÞËÍÕÖÏÞÒÏÍÙÝÞÙÐÙÐÐÓÍÏËØÎÍÙ××ßØÓÞãÌËÜÜÓÏÜÞÙ ÌßÝÓØÏÝÝÏØÞÜãÐËÍÏÎÌã×ÙÝÞÓÍÜÙ˜×ËÖÖËØÎÏÎÓß×ØÞÏÜÚÜÓÝÏÝ̙Ý̚ ËØÎÐÜÏÏÖËØÍÏÜÝÓØÞÒÏÍÙßØÞÜã˛ ÞÙÐÐÏÜÝËÝÏËÞËÞͯͮͮͮ˹ÎËã˜áÒÓÍÒÓÝͳͮÞÙͶͮÚÏÜÍÏØÞÖÙáÏÜÞÒËØÍßÜÜÏØÞ×ËÜÕÏÞ ÜËÞÏݲ ÞÓÝËÖÝÙÞËÜÑÏÞÏÎËÞÓÎÏËÝÞËÑÏÞÙÚÜÏ̋ÝÏÏÎÝÞËÜÞßÚÝËØÎÐÜÏÏÖËØÍÏÜÝ ËÜÙßØÎ ËÑÙݘ×áÓÞÒÚÖËØÝÞÙÌßÓÖÎ×ÙÜÏÖÙá̋ÍÙÝÞÒßÌÝËÍÜÙÝÝÞÒÏÝÞËÞÏ˛ ËÑÙÝ ØØÙàËÞÏÝÏØÞÜϘÖÙÍËÞÏÎÓØËÐÓß ËÐÙÔÙËÜÕÒËÝÒ˘ÖÓ×ÙÝÒÙ˜ ÙÚÏØÏÎÓÞÝÎÙÙÜÝÜÏÍÏØÞÖã˜áÓÞÒËÐÙÜ×ËÖÖËßØÍÒ˛ÒÏÒßÌÓÝÞÒÏÐÓÜÝÞÙÐÓÞÝÕÓØΘ ×ËÕÓØÑ ÓÑÏÜÓËÞÒÏÚÜÏ×ÓÏÜÝÚÙØÝÙÜÙÐÞÒÓÝÓØÓÞÓËÞÓàÏ˛ÒÏÞÏÖÏÍÙ×Ý ÓØÐÜËÝÞÜßÍÞßÜÏÑÓËØÞÐßØÎÏÎÞÒÏÎÏàÏÖÙÚ×ÏØÞÙÐÞÒÏÒßÌÓØÓÞÝÝßÚÚÙÜÞÐÙÜ ÏØÏÜÑãËØÎÏØàÓÜÙØ×ÏØÞÍËßÝÏÝ˞ÙØÏÙÐÓÞÝÝßÝÞËÓØËÌÓÖÓÞãÚÓÖÖËÜݲ ÒÏÒßÌÓÝÙÚÏØÞÙÏàÏÜãÙØÏÒÙáÏàÏܘÍÙ××ßØÓÞãÏàÏØÞݘÍÒËÖÖÏØÑÏÝÏÞͲáÓÖÖ ÌÏÞËÓÖÙÜÏÎ×ËÓØÖãÞÙáËÜÎÝÏØÏÜÑãËØÎÏØàÓÜÙØ×ÏØÞÝÞËÜÞßÚݲ ØËÎÎÓÞÓÙØÞÙ ÞÒÏʹͮͮ̋ÝÏËÞÍËÚËÍÓÞãÎÙ×Ϙ ÓÑÏÜÓËËÖÝÙÐßØÎÏÎÞÒÏÍÙØÝÞÜßÍÞÓÙØÙÐ ËØÏØÏÜÑãÖËÌÙÜËÞÙÜãáÓÞÒÏÛßÓÚ×ÏØÞÖÓÕÏÞÜËØÝÐÙÜ×ÏÜáÓØÎÏܘÙÝÍÓÖÖÙÝÍÙÚϘ UNVEILING NBCC PLAZA ÍÙ×ÚÙØÏØÞÜËÍÕÏÞͲÓØËÌÓÎÞÙÜÏ×ÙàÏÞÒÏÌËÜÜÓÏÜÝÓØÒÓÌÓÞÓØÑÓØØÙàËÞÓÙØáÓÞÒÓØ L-R: British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Ben Llwellyn-Jones; Patron, Nigerian-British Chamber of Commerce (NBCC), Mrs. ÞÒÏÝÏÍÞÙܲ Modupe Adeleke; Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu; President/Chairman of Council, Mr. Kayode Falowo, and Oyewole Joins Research4Life Board Deputy President, Mrs. Bisi Adeyemi, during the inauguration of the NBCC Plaza in Lagos… recently ÓÑÏÜÓËØ˜Ü˛ãÏÎÙÕßØãÏáÙÖϘÒËÝÌÏÏØÏÖÏÍÞÏÎÞÙÞÒÏÙËÜΘÜÓÏØÎÝ PHOTO: ABAYOMI AKINYELE ÙÐÏÝÏËÜÍÒͲ ÓÐϘÏÐÐÏÍÞÓàÏÐÜÙ× ßØÏͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ˛ ÏÝÏËÜÍÒͲ ÓÐÏÓÝËÑÖÙÌËÖÙÜÑËØÓÝËÞÓÙØÞÒËÞÒËÝáÙÜÕÏÎÞÙÜÏÎßÍÏÞÒÏÕØÙáÖÏÎÑÏ ÑËÚÌÏÞáÏÏØÒÓÑÒ̋ÓØÍÙ×ÏÍÙßØÞÜÓÏÝËØÎÖÙá̋ËØÎ×ÓÎÎÖÏ̋ÓØÍÙ×ÏÍÙßØÞÜÓÏÝ ÌãÚÜÙàÓÎÓØÑËÐÐÙÜÎËÌÖÏËÍÍÏÝÝÞÙÒÓÑÒ̋ÛßËÖÓÞãÝÍÓÏØÞÓÐÓÍÜÏÝÏËÜÍÒ˛ ÓÞÒ×ÙÜÏÞÒËØͯͮͮ˜ͮͮͮÚÏÏÜÜÏàÓÏáÏÎÔÙßÜØËÖݘÌÙÙÕÝËØÎÎËÞËÌËÝÏÝ̎ËÝ ‘Collaboration Key to Increased Digital áÏÖÖËÝÞÙÙÖÕÓÞݘÏ̋ÖÏËÜØÓØÑÚÖËÞÐÙÜ×ݘÐÜÏÏÍÙßÜÝÏÝËØÎÜÏÝÙßÜÍÏÍÏØÞÏÜÝ̎ ÏÝÏËÜÍÒͲ ÓÐÏÝßÚÚÙÜÞÝÏÐÐÙÜÞÝÞÙÓ×ÚÜÙàÏÞÏËÍÒÓØјÜÏÝÏËÜÍÒ˜ÚÜËÍÞÓÍÏËØÎ ÚÙÖÓÍã̋×ËÕÓØÑÓØÒÏËÖÞÒ˜ËÑÜÓÍßÖÞßÜϘÞÒÏÏØàÓÜÙØ×ÏØÞËØÎÙÞÒÏÜÖÓÐϘÚÒãÝÓÍËÖ Connectivity’ ËØÎÝÙÍÓËÖÝÍÓÏØÍÏݲ ÜÓÏØÎÝÙÐÏÝÏËÜÍÒͲ ÓÐÏÓÝÙØË×ÓÝÝÓÙØÞÙËÍÍÏÖÏÜËÞÏÏÝÏËÜÍÒͲ ÓÐÏ˪ÝÑÙËÖÞÙ Stories by Emma Okonji ICT innovation and entrepreneur- conditions of citizens across ÚÜÙàÓÎÏ×ßÍÒ̋ØÏÏÎÏÎËÍÍÏÝÝÞÙÞÒÏáÙÜÖÎ˪ÝÚÜÏ×ÓÏÜÚÏÏÜ̋ÜÏàÓÏáÏÎÜÏÝÏËÜÍÒ˜ ship are used to create value these locations,” Pantami said. ÞÙÏâÞÏØÎÏÝÏËÜÍÒͲ ÓÐÏÞÜËÓØÓØÑÓØÓÞÓËÞÓàÏÝÞÒËÞáÓÖÖÒÏÖÚÖÏàÏÖÞÒÏÚÖËãÓØÑÐÓÏÖÎ The Minister of Communica- and prosperity for all. In his welcome address, ÐÙÜÜÏÝÏËÜÍÒÏÜÝÓØÖÙáÏÜ̋ËØÎ̋×ÓÎÎÖÏ̋ÓØÍÙ×ÏÍÙßØÞÜÓÏݘÞÙÝÓÑØÓÐÓÍËØÞÖãÓØÍÜÏËÝÏ tions and Digital Economy, and virtual audiences from “With the launch of STORM, the Managing Director/ ËáËÜÏØÏÝÝËØÎßÝËÑÏÙÐÞÒÏÜÏÝÙßÜÍÏÝÙÐÐÏÜÏÎÌãÞÒÏÏÝÏËÜÍÒͲ ÓÐÏÚßÌÖÓÝÒÓØÑ Dr. Isa Pantami, has stressed across the country. which has the capacity to CEO of Galaxy Backbone, ÚËÜÞØÏÜݘËØÎÞÙÝßÌÝÞËØÞÓàÏÖãÐËÍÓÖÓÞËÞÏÞÒÏÜÏÝÏËÜÍÒÍÙ××ßØÓÍËÞÓÙØÚÜÙÍÏÝݲ the need for collaboration Pantami who connected provide high speed internet Prof. Muhammad Abubakar, ÒÏÜÏÝÓÎÏØÞ˜ÜÓÏØÎÝÙÐÏÝÏËÜÍÒͲ ÓÐϘÓÍÒËÜÎÏÎãϘáÒÙÍÙØÐÓÜ×ÏÎ between the public sector to the event through video and hosting services everyday said change remained the only ãÏáÙÖÏ˪ÝÏÖÏÍÞÓÙØÓØÞÙÞÒÏÙËÜΘÝËÓν˫ Ë×ÎÏÖÓÑÒÞÏÎÞÙÍÙØÐÓÜ×ÞÒËÞãÙß and the private sector, in conferencing, explained ef- across the South-east and constant thing in life. He, ÒËàÏÌÏÏØÝßÍÍÏÝÝÐßÖÖãÏÖÏÍÞÏÎÞÙÞÒÏÙËÜÎÙÐÜÓÏØÎÝÙÐÏÝÏËÜÍÒͲ ÓÐÏ˛ order to drive widespread forts by the government to South-south regions, covering therefore, advised everyone ÏÖÍÙ×ÏÞÙÙßÜÏØÑËÑÏÎËØÎÏØÞÒßÝÓËÝÞÓÍÑÜÙßÚ˛ÏÒËàÏÌÏÏØÖÙÙÕÓØÑÐÙÜ ÙËÜÎ×Ï×ÌÏÜÝáÒÙáÓÖÖÌÏËÍÞÓàÏÖãÓØàÙÖàÏÎÓØÝÒËÚÓØÑÞÒÏÏÝÏËÜÍÒͲ ÓÐÏ digital connectivity. transform Nigeria into one of Enugu, down to Ebonyi to to embrace change so that no ÐßØÎÜËÓÝÓØÑÝÞÜËÞÏÑãËØÎÒÏÖÚÓØÑÞÙÍËÜÜãÙßÞÐßØÎÜËÓÝÓØÑËÍÞÓàÓÞÓÏÝˬ˛ The minister said this while the leading digital economies Owerri, Portharcourt, Awka, one is left behind at the ‘speed ãÏáÙÖÏÓÝÞÒÏÚÓÙØÏÏÜËØÎÍßÜÜÏØÞÜÏÝÓÎÏØÞ˹ÒËÓÜ×ËØ̋ÙàÏÜØÓØÑÙßØÍÓÖ˜ commending the collaboration in the world. Onitsha and Asaba, the of light’ transformations taking ØÝÞÓÞßÞÏÙÐ ØÐÙÜ×ËÞÓÙØËØËÑÏ×ÏØÞ̙ ̚ÐÜÓÍËáÓÞÒÙÐÐÓÍÏÝÓØ between Galaxy Backbone, According to the Minister, objectives of the initiative is place all around the globe. ˜ ˜ËØË΢ßÝÞÜËÖÓ˘ÜËØÍϘ ØÎÓ˘ÙßÞÒÐÜÓ͢ÓÑÏÜÓËËØÎÒËØ˲ a government agency and “In our attempt at achieving gradually being met.” “We are confident that Interra Network, a private this, we came up with the Pantami said STORM would by making fast and reliable SHELT Appoints Obadare into Board organisation, for the launch of National Digital Economy open up massive opportunities internet services available in ÖÙÌËÖ Ó×ÓÞÏÎÒËÝËØØÙßØÍÏÎÞÒÏËÚÚÙÓØÞ×ÏØÞÙÐܲÏÞÏÜÎÏáËÖÏ STORM, a broadband internet Policy and Strategy with for corporates, small businesses urban and rural communi- ÌËÎËÜÏËÝËÏ×ÌÏÜÙÐÞÒÏÎàÓÝÙÜãÙËÜÎÙÐÓÞÝáÒÙÖÖãÙáØÏÎÏØÞÓÞãÓØ connectivity infrastructure that the clear vision to transform and for homes looking to ties, greater number of job ÓÑÏÜÓ˘ãÌÏÜ ××ßØÏ Ó×ÓÞÏÎÏÐÐÏÍÞÓàÏËÝÙÐ ßÖãͯ˜ͰͮͰͯ˛ will provide connectivity access Nigeria into a leading Digital improve the quality of internet opportunities will emanate and ÒÏÍÙ×ÚËØãÏâÚÜÏÝÝÏÎÍÙØÐÓÎÏØÍÏÞÒËÞÌËÎËÜÏáÓÖÖÌÜÓØÑËáÏËÖÞÒÙÐ ÏâÚÏÜÓÏØÍϘÎÓàÏÜÝÓÞãÙÐÝÕÓÖÖÝËØÎÜÏÑÓÙØËÖÏâÚÏÜÓÏØÍÏÞÙÞÒÏÙËÜβ for the South-east and South- Economy providing quality life services at their location. we can lift more people out ÌËÎËÜÏ˪ÝÚßÜÚÙÝÏáÓÖÖÌÏÞÙÍÙßØÝÏÖ˜ÑßÓÎÏËØÎÝßÚÚÙÜÞãÌÏÜ ××ßØÏ Ó×ÓÞÏÎ south regions of the country. and digital economies for all. “We are much more con- of poverty. ËØÎ ÖÙÌËÖÓØÐßÖÐÓÖÖÓØÑÞÒÏÓÜàÓÝÓÙØËØÎÙÌÔÏÍÞÓàÏÙÐÌÏÓØÑÙØÏÙÐÞÒÏ STORM was launched “This vision is strengthened vinced also that the project “History has shown us that ÖÏËÎÓØÑÚÜÙàÓÎÏÜÝÙÐÏÍßÜÓÞãÚÏÜËÞÓÙØÏØÞÏÜ̙̚ÓØÐÜÓÍ˲ recently in Enugu though a by our mission which guides will lead to the creation in every major pandemic, Ù××ÏØÞÓØÑÙØÞÒÏËÚÚÙÓØÞ×ÏØÞ˜ÞÒÏËØËÑÓØÑÓÜÏÍÞÙÜÙÐ ÖÙÌËÖ hybrid event, which attracted our daily activities towards of new businesses and an Ó×ÓÞÏÎ˜Ü˛ÙßÝÝÏÐÌÓÖÖËעÝËÓν˫ÏËÜÏÍÙØÐÓÎÏØÞÞÒËÞܲÎÏáËÖÏáÓÖÖ physical audiences in Enugu ‘building a nation where digital improvement in the living Continued on page 24 ÌÜÓØÑËÎÏÚÞÒÙÐÝÕÓÖÖÝËØÎÜÏÑÓÙØËÖÓØÝÓÑÒÞÝÞÒËÞáÓÖÖÍÙØÞÓØßÏÞÙÏØÜÓÍÒÞÒÏ ÏâÚÏÜÓÏØÍÏÙÐÞÒÏÙËÜβ˫ÏËÜÏ×ÙÝÞÒÙØÙÜÏÎÞÙÒËàÏÎÏáËÖÏËÑÜÏÏÞÙ ÌÏË×Ï×ÌÏÜÙÐÞÒÏÎàÓÝÙÜãÙËÜÎËØÎÑÜËÞÏÐßÖÐÙÜÞÒÏÞÓ×ÏËØÎÏØÏÜÑãÒÏ áÓÖÖÎÏÎÓÍËÞÏÓØÙÜÎÏÜÞÙËÝÝÓÝÞßÝÓØÐßÖÐÓÖÖÓØÑÙßÜàÓÝÓÙØÓØÞÒÏÜÏÑÓÙØ˛ˬ ÖÙÌËÖÓÝËÞÏÍÒØÙÖÙÑÓÍËÖÖãËÎàËØÍÏÎßÜÙÚÏËØÌËÝÏÎËØËÑÏÎÏÍßÜÓÞã Nigeria Ranked High in Mobile Subscription ÏÜàÓÍÏÚÜÙàÓÎÏÜ̙̚˜ÙÐÐÏÜÓØÑËàÏÜÝËÞÓÖÏÜËØÑÏÙÐÍãÌÏÜÝÏÍßÜÓÞãÝÏÜàÓÍÏÝ ÞÙÖÏËÎÓØÑÓØÝÞÓÞßÞÓÙØÝÓØßÜÙÚϘÓÎÎÖÏËÝÞËØÎÐÜÓ͢ÓØÚËÜÞØÏÜÝÒÓÚáÓÞÒ The recent Ericsson Mobility TELCOMS from sub-Saharan African the pandemic, into the year ÝÙ×ÏÙÐÞÒÏ×ÙÝÞÜÏØÙáØÏÎØË×ÏÝÓØÞÒÏÓØÎßÝÞÜã˛ Report has ranked Nigeria as markets, where around 15 per 2025, through surveying the country with the third online education at schools cent of mobile subscriptions a sample of 1,000 to 2,000 highest mobile subscriptions and universities as well as were for 4G at the end of 2020. respondents between the additions globally as of the remote working in Nigeria, The net addition of mobile ages of 15–79 years. first quarter of 2021. which increased to 72 per cent subscriptions was quite low The report found that, when “Digital technologies It also projected increase in and 62 per cent respectively. during Q1 2021, at 59 million. entering the ‘next normal’, have taken centre 5G subscriptions from 2022, to Ericsson recently unveiled In a separate survey, the consumers in Africa would stage especially in reach seven per cent in 2026. two reports: ‘The 20th edi- Global Telecom Market have added an average of Nigeria where we The report stated that India tion of the Ericsson Mobility Report (GTM), also known 3.4 online services to their had the most net additions of Report and The Future of as “The Future of Urban daily online activities, while have noted its great over 26 million, followed by Urban Reality Report,’ that Reality Report” was also also increasing the time they contribution to China with over six million together, forecast the future launched recently by the spend online by 10 hours per Nigeria’s GDP in the and Nigeria with over three of 5G in sub-Saharan Africa Ericsson ConsumerLab, to week by 2025, in comparison last quarter of the million mobile subscriptions and around the world in assess the penetration of 5G to their pre-pandemic habits. year 2020. Projections additions. addition to forecasting the and the tremendous potential This is also expected to continue to show an According to the report, by post-pandemic world. it holds to markets around bridge the gap between upward movement the end of 2026, sub-Saharan Ericsson projected that 5G the world. moderate and advanced online in this, even in the Africa would have around mobile subscriptions would The latest Ericsson Consu- users, with the more moderate current year 2021” 70 million 5G subscriptions, exceed 580 million by the end merLab report is Ericsson’s online users having introduced while attributing the projected of 2021, driven by an estimated largest consumer study to date, more online services in their Managing Director/CEO, Galaxy increase to the COVID-19 one million new 5G mobile revealing key insights about daily life over the course of Backbone, pandemic, which it said, subscriptions every day. what Nigerian consumers Prof. Muhammad Abubakar led to the implementation of The report featured statistics believe will happen beyond Continued on page 24 24 THISDAY ˾ Ͷ˜ 2021
BUSINESSWORLD NEWS
‘COLLABORATION KEY TO INCREASED DIGITAL NIEEE: Executive Order 5 Implementation CONNECTIVITY’ one or two sectors begin Will Boost Local Capacity to thrive and lead to the transformation of the lives Stories by Emma Okonji He said the active participa- He added that collabora- capital flight that put pressure devil’s workshop. of entire communities and tion of more professionals in tion with the academia and on the economy.” “We need a lot of synergies, indeed the world. The Nigeria Institute of the development process would industries in Research and He also said since Nigeria thoughtfulness, and collabora- “In this case, digital tech- Electrical Electronic Engineers harmonise all efforts to achieve Development (R&D) would had shortfall of 20 million tion to look inward to solve nologies have taken centre (NIEEE) has stressed the need the desired results. promote industrial growth. housing deficit as at 2018, these challenges. stage especially in Nigeria for the implementation of Ogunduyile, also stressed the He also urged government the government needs N21 “We also want the Na- where we have noted its great Executive Order 5 in order need for mentorship by fellows to encourage the Nigeria trillion to fund it. tional Agency for Science contribution to the GDP of to enhance growth of local of professional bodies, saying Industrial Development Bank According to him, “Re- and Engineering Infrastructure our country in the last quarter capacities among manufactur- exco members of professional (NIDB), to fund the industrial member there are millions (NASENI) to rise up to the of the year 2020. Projections ers and solution developers. associations should foster growth at a single digit inter- of engineers, technologist, immediate challenges to continue to show an upward NIEEE, therefore called on relationship with all fellows est rate with a long period of technicians, artisans and other foster relationship with the movement in this even in this the federal government to and senior members to ensure repayment of six years. trades that will benefit from industries and the academia year 2021,”Abubakar said. expedite action in the imple- engineering professionals are According to Ogunduyile, this exercise. to ensure massive production of He said broadband internet mentation of the law which enlisted for the National Youth “To reduce pressure on naira, “In other words, you will ventilators, spraying machines connectivity and hosting it stated would empower the Service Corps (NYSC), not as government should support be sending out the hoodlums, and other equipment that will service being offered by local manufacturing. teachers but to industries for agriculture, textile industries kidnappers away from our take away pressure on our STORM would lead to an According to engineers, the industrial experience. and many others to reduce streets. An idle hand is the currency.” experience that people would previous efforts of government find efficient, reliable and with geared towards achieving great support. Abubakar economic development had called on the people of relied on the use of foreign South-east and South-south aid, investment in machines, regions to take advantage of fostering education at the the digital opportunity that primary and secondary level, Galaxy Backbone is bringing controlling population growth to the regions in collaboration and giving loans and depth with Interra Networks. relief on reforms to stimulate Former Minister of Aviation, the economy with a view to Mr. Osita Chidoka, who was achieving self-sufficiency. physically present in Enugu They, however, said the for the launch of STORM, said previous efforts did not yield Nigeria’s future development the desired results, hence the would depend on capacity need for full scale implementa- building that would drive tion of the Executive Order human capital development, 5 to boost local production. which he said the STORM NIEEE made the call during initiative would achieve. its Fellowship Conferment Enugu State Commissioner Ceremony of 29 Engineers, of Science and Technology, Mr. which held recently in Abuja. Obi Kama and his counter- The Chief Executive Officer, parts in Imo and Delta states, Kenol Nigeria Limited, Olu Prof. Boniface Ginikanwa Ogunduyile, in his public and Mr. Rocky Ighoyota lecture at the event, stressed EXPANDING INTERNET CONNECTIVITY respectively, said the initiative the importance of empowering L-R: Director of ICT, Ministry of Science and Technology, Delta State, Mr. Rocky Ighoyota; CEO, Interra Networks, Mr. David would provide digital access local manufacturers through Onu; Imo State Commissioner of Science and Technology, Prof. Boniface Nwogwu; Enugu State Commissioner of Science and for the South-east and South- the implementation of the Technology, Mr. Obi Kama and Group Head, Regional Offices at Galaxy Backbone, Mr. Malik Suleiman, during the launch of south regions to explore the Executive Order 5. STORM in Enugu...recently world of technology.
NIGERIA RANKED ‘Financial Inclusion Initiative Will Drive Open Banking’ HIGH IN MOBILE SUBSCRIPTION The Area Business Head, Momoh who shared her This, she said, would en- ecosystem, Mastercard aims would continue to champion the pandemic. West Africa, for Mastercard, views with THISDAY, during able end users have access to to put across its capabilities open banking across several According to the report, be- Ebehijie Momoh, has said the a recent webinar said: “The relevant technology tools that towards open banking and markets, Nigeria inclusive, in fore the COVID-19 pandemic, financial inclusion initiative of bottom line is that financial would help them meet their its infrastructure. Mastercard order to connect, and to help the amount of online shopping the Central Bank of Nigeria inclusion must be prioritized own financial needs. has the Open Banking Connect, financial service providers to in Nigeria stood at 35 per cent (CBN) will drive open banking in order to connect everyone She explained that under Open Banking Protect and Open connect with a single and uni- out of the total number of all operations in Nigeria. to the digital economy that open banking operations, Banking Resolve, to address versal connection for financial shopping events, both online According to her, open will help drive open banking integration would become all of these.” institutions. and at physical stores. During banking sets the standard operations in Nigeria. a lot easier using the APIs, According to her, Mastercard Giving details about open the COVID-19 pandemic, the for connectivity between “The financial inclusion because the APIs would enable started early investments in banking, Momoh said with figure increased to 51 per Banks, FinTechs and the bank initiative should include micro individuals and organisations to open banking and has launched it, Mastercard could help cent. Nigerian consumers customers. lending and micro insurance. easily connect and gain access a set of solutions for open all service providers connect anticipate their habits around Momoh advised the CBN The digital technologies that to digital financial services. banking, having acquired a to the ecosystem, via an online shopping will remain to continue to prioritise its have been put in place by Speaking about the mission major open banking player Application Programming at a level of 44 per cent after financial inclusion strategies that Mastercard, actually make it of Mastercard for open banking, in the United States of America. Interface, without each party the COVID-19 pandemic has would on-board new customers easier and safer for end users Momoh said: “Our mission at “Mastercard is currently connecting separately, thereby passed. into the financial space, assuring to connect and have access Mastercard is to help create positioning its solutions in open reducing cost. Open banking that open banking operations banking services. “The APIs an efficient system for easy banking to meet the needs of protects against data loss dur- will drive connectivity through provided by Mastercard is payment. The effect of CO- its key markets such as Nigeria. ing financial transactions, and certain Application Program- one of the ways to enhance VID-19 has changed customers’ Our platform connects third prevents fraud by providing ming Interface (APIs), that are connectivity for on-boarding transactional behaviour, leading party services providers like immediate verification of third provided by Mastercard to processes that will bring in to explosion in e-Commerce the Banks, FinTechs and the party registration and certifica- enable financial transactions new customers into the digital and online transactions. “As bank customers,” she said. tion and Mastercard provides a lot easier and safer. space.” a lead in the open banking She added that Mastercard that verification.
Group Business Editor Experts Call for Review of Cybercrime Law to Curb Fraud Obinna Chima Worried about the rise in legislation to reflect current the entire world have witnessed said Nigeria needed cyber- implementation of the law. Capital Market Editor Goddy Egene cybercrime in Nigeria and trends in the digital space. new cyber threats, like fraud security experts to be part of He called for capacity build- Comms/e-Business Editor across the globe, cyber-security President of CSEAN, Mr. in cryptocurrency, fraud using the team currently discussing ing for the judiciary in terms Emma Okonji experts have called on the fed- Remi Afon, said the review Artificial Intelligence (AI) and with Twitter. of training and re-training, to Asst. Editor, Money Market eral government to review the became important in order to Machine Learning (ML), fake He said Nigeria does not need enable the judiciary understand Nume Ekeghe country’s 2015 Cybercrime Law, address some areas that were not news, hate speech, kidnapping new regulation to address the the Cybercrime Law better, Senior Correspondent in order to effectively address covered by the law, adding that and ransom taking, among Twitter issue, adding that what while handling cases of cyber ËÒÏÏ×ÕÓØÑÌÙÖß(Advertising) new trends in cybercrime. since the Cybercrime Law was others. Nigeria needs, “is regulation that fraud. Correspondents Chinedu Eze (Aviation) The experts who spoke approved for implementation in “So there is need to review is embedded into the country’s Afon said Presidents of ÜÙ×ÙÝÏÖÏÌÓÙÎßØ(Maritime) recently during a webinar to 2015, the world has experienced the law by security experts to Cybercrime Law,” hence the developed countries have Cy- James Emejo (Finance) announce the forthcoming cyber emerging technologies. address those areas that were need for a review. bersecurity Advisers, as against Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) Chineme Okafo (Energy) security conference in Nigeria, He explained that such new not covered by the law, in order He decried the situation National Security Adviser that ××ËØßÏÖÎÎÏÒ(Energy) being organised by the Cyber vulnerabilities could be address to make the Cybercrime Law where no one has been con- the Nigerian President has. All Reporters Security Experts Association when the law is reviewed. more effective.” victed with the provisions of these he said, would be ad- ÙÝËÖÏÕÒßÙÑÓÏ(ICT) of Nigeria (CSEAN) stressed According to him, “Since the Afon, who cited the case of the Cybercrime Law, because dressed, when the Cybersecurity Peter Uzoho (Energy) the need for a review of the law was passed, Nigeria and Twitter suspension in Nigeria, of what he described as poor Law is reviewed. THISDAY ˾ Ͷ˜ 2021 25 Letshego Launches Digital Platform Raheem Akingbolu and Botswana, as countries by extending access to in which the ‘LetsGo digital’ appropriate financial solu- Letshego Group, a leading will be rolled out. Through tions, progressing towards retail finance organisation LetsGo, Nigerians have the our ambition to be a world in Africa has launched its power to be and the power to class retail financial organisa- ‘LetsGo digital’ campaign do, beginning with Govern- tion. Digital is no longer a through its digital financial ment employees and civil revolution; digital is life!” technology platform. This, servants under the brand’s This narrative and the according to the company, is established deduction from richness of the Group’s an enabler to deepen financial source model. regional footprint in Africa inclusion across African. Through the LetsGo App are expertly narrated in the “From spoken word poetry (Android launched, iOS to proudly African television to dance, our myriad of follow), Letshego custom- campaign that kicked off on cultures and languages, ers have access to simple Nigeria TV screens on 24 cuisines and passions, we financial beyond banking June 2021. are Africans building a better services on the go, to enhance The campaign is the work Africa and such is Letshego’s their lifestyles. of renowned Nigerian music expressive view on Africa,” Letshego’s Group Chief video director, Sesan Ogunro, the organisation stated in a Executive, Andrew Fening who brings dynamism, bold- statement. Okai said, “Having just ness and creativity to his The company further stated celebrated Africa Day, and work and runs a multi-award that Letshego Group has as we navigate through a winning video production its footprint in 11 African global pandemic, there is no company based in Lagos, markets with a-22-year better time for us to encour- Nigeria, serving all of Africa. history of improving lives age our fellow citizens of The campaign also includes through inclusive financial Africa to work together in representation from creatives solutions in Africa. overcoming our challenges, across each of Letshego’s According to the Group, and Rise Up! markets, to immortalise key Letshego has chosen two “Letshego remains com- iconic scenes and elements budding markets, Nigeria mitted to improving lives of Africa’s landscape. FG Inaugurates Surveyors’ Board, Tasks Body on Professionalism Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja “So, I will like to see, development of our corporate therefore, as you take up head office. The construction The Minister of Works and the mantle of leadership of the office on our land at Jahi Housing, Mr. Babatunde today after inauguration, District in Abuja will mark Fashola has inaugurated these are issues that I think the end of accommodation the Estate Surveyors and you should put into the front problem and its expenditures Valuers Registration Board burner agenda in terms of on service charge incurred by (ESVARBON), urging them to how you regulate the practice the board. help contribute to the process and also the quality of people “We have revised the of nation-building. that you admit to the practice. valuation reporting template Fashola stated that the “The importance and pro- produced by the board in inauguration has far-reaching fessional mandate of Estate 2015. The revision is not only consequences in evaluation Surveyors and Valuers in to maintain a uniform and as it has public development the economic growth of the standard reporting format components, stressing that country is really to put value by valuers in the country but there was the need for the on land. The main business also to keep pace with the board to be critical in decisions that they undertake is the dynamics of time and changes they take. business of how land is turned in the global market place.” The minister further urged from a dormant asset really He also expressed satisfac- the board to make the practice into a valuable asset”, he said. tion that the number of tertiary of estate valuation simple In his comments, the Chair- institutions offering courses for ordinary Nigerians and man of the board, Gershom in estate surveying and valu- urged its members to uphold Henshaw, said the institution ation had increased, given the the tenets of integrity and had just inducted 213 members credence to its oversight on professionalism. as registered estate surveyors professional accreditation, “As we reconstitute the and valuers, increasing the promising to ensure strict new board and as we work number of practising personnel application of the rules. together to rebuild our to 5,248. “We know that any law economy, I urge you to be He added: “We have had without sanction is no law, so as professionals as you were the ground breaking/founda- we will ensure strict sanctions trained to be. tion laying ceremony for the to run this institution,” he said. Baobab MFB Pledges Improved Service Delivery Eromosele Abiodun support for the bank. time we promised to step up “We appreciate the way our support for the customers. The Managing Director and you have done your busi- “One of the things we did Chief Executive Officer of ness with us; your support was to increase the loan limit Baobab Microfinance Bank, has helped the bank to grow from N40 million to N50 mil- Dr. Kazeem Olanrewaju has faster than we anticipated. If lion. I am also happy to say assured customers that the you remember, we gave you that in the next 30 days the bank will continue to employ an update the last time we loans limit would be increased innovative technology sustain met, I will like to tell you to N100 million per customer.” efficient service delivery. now that the growth that On the recapitalisation of Olanrewaju who stated we have witnessed before the bank, he said the bank is this while speaking at the the outbreak of COVID-19, well ahead of the N3.5 billion bank’s customers’ forum held though was affected in the threshold set by the Central in Lagos, recently, stressed first two months of 2020, has Bank of Nigeria (CBN). that despite the pandemic continued its upward trajectory. “The CBN requires us to that disrupted businesses “The growth of the company have a minimum of N35 billion the world over, the bank has and our expansion plan is on as at April this year, as we witnessed growth. track, as we speak we have talk today, the capital of the According to him, “CO- been able to support over 240, bank is at N4.7 billion. VID-19 has actually caused 000 customers in the last 10 “Before the end of this year a lot of disruption in the past years. we will be well ahead of the few months, we are happy “This caught across the 7 N5 billion set for national that you are still in business states where we currently micro finance bank by the and we thank you for your operate, if you notice, the last central bank.” 26 THISDAY ˾ Ͷ˜ 2021
BUSINESSWORLD NEWS WowLotto Launches Lottery Game CeBIH Advocates Credit Oluchi Chibuzor game as modern, bold and we saw this as an opportunity expressive, while adding to introduce a unique product Digitalisation to Boost Wow!lotto has launched that the game has been to Nigeria - the first ever its interactive online game designed for Nigerians who interactive gaming platform platform in Nigeria that of- are explorative, competitive specially made for Nigerians.” Economic Activities fers a unique combination of and desire to win big while For the Director-General of game mechanics with casino they have fun. the National Lottery Regula- Sunday Okobi the problems identified. able to expand and we visualisation for smartphones “Wow!lotto is the first of tory Commission, NLRC, Mr. “The objective of the will not be able to create and PCs respectively. its kind in the country and Lanre Gbajabiamillah, the The Committee of e- committee essentially employment, which is The offerings according to we will continually demon- lottery and betting industry business Industry Head is to drive advocacy supposed to drive our the firm provides an oppor- strate the brand’s purpose in Nigeria is experiencing (CeBIH) has called for for digital banking economy.” tunity for fun and winnings of providing Nigerians an enormous growth. the digitalisation of pay- in Nigeria and raise The e-business group of up to N300 million. opportunity to get the better “I am excited that an ments to boost economic awareness among the head said CeBIH’s aim Disclosing this to jour- life they desire as they play innovation like wow!lotto activities. market participators and is to drive awareness of nalists at the launch of to win big up to N300,000,000 has sprung up to empower The group also raised regulatory engagement the current challenges the online game in Lagos, through our exciting lottery Nigerians while they have fun. awareness on the vari- across the industry. in the sector, and how the Marketing Manager, games,” She stated. Nigerian Gaming market has ous digital platforms to “This event is one of to solve them, adding wow!lotto Nigeria, Esther On his part, wow!lotto a lot of players and at NLRC; drive credit (loan) facili- our activities to drive that: “We have been able Abu, said the company Country Project Manager, our mission is to ensure that tation, credit sourcing, awareness across the to do that fairly well. strives to keep working Herbert Ezeamaka, said, each player is abiding by the and credit recovery for industry, and through We have stimulated the on new games in different “The Nigerian market is rules that guide the sector. For those at the Bottom of this event, we have interest, and from here, thematic ways to ensure that currently saturated with wow!lotto, they have met all the Pyramid (BoP). brought together in- other practitioners will players continue getting a sport betting and traditional the requirements to operate At an event held dustry practitioners and help find a way to solve rich gaming experience. lottery companies. Following in Nigeria; hence, they have recently in Lagos with stakeholders across the these issues and build She described the lottery our success in other markets, our full backing,” he added. the theme: ‘Transform- globe to discuss a topic a better Nigeria.” ing Credit with Digital that is germane to the Atanda added that Optimisation’, the Chair- digitisation of payment digital banking is a man of the Committee, and banking in Nigeria.” bitter-sweet story, NADDC Boss Advocates Reliance on Mr. Yemi Atanda, told He added: “We believe mostly because of the journalists that, “We that averring credit is pandemic, as dispos- Renewable Energy at CeBIH have set out one of the major engines able income has been to raise the awareness to drive economic em- affected, “no funds to Ugo Aliogo He also advised exhibitors points. for digital platforms powerment. As one of spend unlike before, but at the fair to continue to focus She also added that a similar that are driving credit the speakers has said, during the pandemic, The Director-General, National on developing local assembly principle goes for ZNA Rich six facilitation, credit sourc- Nigeria is at the level we saw a large chunk Automotive Design and Develop- plants and invest in local talent. range of pickup trucks, delivering ing, and credit recovery of two to three per cent of users adopting digital ment Council (NADDC), Jelani In her remarks, Mikano luxurious, durable, rugged, yet eventually. credit averment at the channels for the first Aliyu, has called on key players Motors Marketing Manager, affordable light-duty trucks. “In this event, what bottom of the pyramid. time because of the in the automotive industry to Karima Okunola, stated that She further said Geely’s iconic we have been able to “In other developed restriction on move- remain forward-thinking and Geely’s brand ethos is making models, the Geely Emgrand7 achieve is to bring countries, that ratio is ments, the interaction invest in renewable energy. refined cars for everyone, saying sedan and the newly launched all the practitioners about 40 percent. So it was limited, so all Aliyu, gave the advice in the brand is the perfect meeting Geely Coolray compact crossover together to look at the means that we are very these led to the people Lagos, during the Lagos Mo- point for high-quality autos with was resplendently displayed at various challenges that far from the target, and learning other ways tor Fair, organised by the BKG the latest technological, best in the fair alongside ZNA Rich 6 are confronting that if we don’t make credit of keeping their lives Exhibitions. class features at affordable price range of pickup trucks. aspect of digitalisation, available to people, going, hence electronic the benefits, and how we SMEs will not grow, banking becoming the can collaborate to solve businesses will not be mainstay.” Chivita Unveils New Campaign Stories by Emma Okonji Chivita fruit juices, for family – Chi Exotic and example Chivita Active or Chivita Ice Tea.” Chivita, has launched Happy Hour by Chivita, According to the com- a new communication is a great way to finish pany’s Brand Manager, campaign tagged ‘Chivita off your meals & snacks,” Mr. Oladapo Olanrewaju, with Meals.’ the statement added. “we developed our excit- A statement explained Deployed across dif- ing communication in that the campaign was ferent communication response to consumer designed to inspire channels, it stated that feedback that tells us consumers to continue the campaign will be these two flavours are enjoying the quality executed in different consumer favourites nourishment Chivita cities and regions across for pairing with meals, juices provide, and to the country. which gives them that associate Chivita with “The visually stimu- great, pleasurable meal everyday meal moments lating images showing experience every day.” through consumption of different, familiar meals Speaking on the newly Chivita with their meals which appeal and con- launched campaign, CHI in-home or out of home. nect with the culture, Limited Marketing Direc- The range of Chivita traditions and ethnicity tor, Mrs. Toyin Nnodi, juices (Chivita 100%, of the diverse Nigerian stated that, “The Chivita Chivita Active, Chi Exotic, population. With Meals campaign Happy Hour by Chivita, “The Chivita with Meals aims to reinforce the fact and Chivita Ice Tea) are images have been mostly that Chivita is the perfect a great combination of paired with 2 favourite fruit juice complement for taste and nourishment products from the Chivita your daily meals.” which complement your everyday meals. “The Chivita with Meals campaign therefore aligns with the popular trend amongst Nigerians who enhance their everyday dining experiences by complementing great tast- ing meals with nourishing beverages. “Complementing Chivita fruit juices, specifically anyone of the range of Chivita 100% healthy vari- ants, with your breakfast meals is a good way to kick-start your mornings, as these products are packed with essential vitamins and minerals to boost your overall health. “Drinking any of the THISDAY ˾ Ͷ˜ 2021 27
‘Fintrak Software Will Google Cloud, Ericsson Partner to Deepen Productivity Deliver Emerging Tech Solutions in Organisations’ Stories by Emma Okonji Labs, a state-of-the-art innova- and orchestration technologies. edge and enterprise premises.” tion centre, where advanced The joint offerings will help President and Head of Erics- Giving insight to the increased and inherently deliver business Google Cloud and Ericsson solutions and technologies can enterprises in the automotive, son North America, Niklas Heu- financial sector regulation and value,” Abioye said. have announced partnership be developed and tested on a transportation, manufacturing veldop, said: “5G is a powerful advance technology adoptions Speaking further about to jointly develop 5G and Edge live, multi-layers 5G platform. and other sectors improve ef- innovation platform. Combined by organisations that impact cus- the solution, Abioye said: Cloud solutions to help com- Ericsson and Google Cloud ficiencies and lower latency by with edge cloud capabilities, 5G tomers and revenue, the Group “Performance Insight (Pi 360) munications service providers have already completed func- bringing connectivity close to has the potential to accelerate Managing Director of Fintrak, is a web-based Enterprise digitally transform and unlock tional onboarding of Ericsson companies’ physical locations. the digital transformation of Bimbo Abioye, has said the Performance Management new enterprise and consumer 5G on Anthos to enable telco Chief Executive Officer, virtually any sector of industry company’s software called Pi-360, Suite, modularized into various use cases. edge and on-premise use cases Google Cloud, Thomas Kurian, or society. We are excited about will further deepen productivity financial management modules. Globally, industries with edge for communications service said: “Organisations have our partnership with Google for multi-level management staff The new FinTrak Pi– 360 will presence, including communica- providers and enterprises. a tremendous opportunity Cloud as we engage with our in organisations. not just enable users manage tion service providers, retailers, As part of the partnership, to digitally transform their customers to leverage our Abioye, who spoke at a performance, it will improve manufacturers, transport busi- Google Cloud and Ericsson businesses with 5G and cloud combined capabilities to solve recent media conference, noted it! The solution is designed to nesses, healthcare and media/ are also piloting enterprise capabilities like artificial intel- real-world business challenges that the Fintrak Enterprise empower users with varying entertainment providers, face applications at the edge on a ligence and machine learning for the benefit of consumers, Performance Insight (PI- 360) needs for information across pressures to build more digitised live network with TIM. The at the edge. We are proud to enterprises and society at large.” solution framework would enterprise. Strategic units can businesses and new digital project, which will automate partner with Ericsson to help Ericsson and Google enable pervasive operational now generate related profiled experiences for their customers. the functions of TIM’s core build a foundation for com- previously formed a services and financial performance reports perform avalanche of To help businesses address 5G network and cloud-based munications service providers partnership to enable the digital management across an entire analytics leveraging on the single this shift, Google Cloud and applications, will use TIM’s and enterprises alike to take transformation of operator business. source of data.” Ericsson are working together Telco Cloud infrastructure, advantage of cloud technology networks and application According to him, “With He added: “Being an inte- to develop emerging solutions Google Cloud solutions and and cloud-native services, from migration through cloud-native, FinTrak, banks can create a true grated FinTrak ERP platform at Ericsson’s Silicon Valley D-15 Ericsson’s 5G core network telecom network core to the container-based solutions. culture of visibility, accountability, that primarily focuses on the and performance enhancement numeric information that can with our performance manage- be extracted, it also processes ment solution.” the capacity to integrate with He said the PI- 360 reporting third party Enterprise Resource tool would facilitate organisations Planning systems (ERPs) and to make quick strategic and data warehouses, FinTrak tactical business decisions that eliminates the usual problem would increase productivity at of independent systems unable to the long run. “The new FinTrak cooperate with one another and PI-360, is a robust business exchange data. By implementing intelligence solution that enables FinTrak Pi 360, interoperability organisations to gain deeper of systems is built for exchange level of insight, flexibility and information between systems scalability to grow. Empowering and consumed by multiple users with the right information users and business units from to make critical business decision a single source.” Clubhouse to Monetise Platform, Achieves Millions of Users in Nigeria Nosa Alekhuogie that, and that is our hope.” Davison noted that with the Given the fast growing rate of general lease policy, users could the social audio application, leverage on the platform to better Clubhouse is considering manage their time through the ICT centre monetising the platform for day as it uses lesser data and users and also introducing a affords users the luxury of doing general lease policy before the other things online unlike the end of the year to accommodate video app. Saitel to Bridge Internet Gap in Nigeria with Satellite more users while growing its “From a creator perspective, community. this means you don’t have to Nosa Alekhuogie Speaking at a recent media the internet even when they enjoying fast internet in Lagos, The company made this worry about what you look briefing to announce its entry are in the village. It means if you move outside Lagos to known during a virtual media like, how messy your house Sairtel, a broadband internet into the Nigerian broadband that there is no disadvantage Ibafo area, you will discover parley.The Co-founder and Chief is,or holding the phone up and service provider, has promised space, the Acting Chief when you are connected to the that the service you get can’t Executive Officer of Clubhouse, staring into it for hours. I think to bridge internet connectivity Executive Officer of Sairtel, internet because it provides a be as what you get within Mr. Paul Davison, explained that it fits into parts of your day in gap across the country, through Mr. Salvation Alibor, said: level-playing ground for all.” Lagos,” he said. although the company does not a different way and it is a live its broadband access. “Internet access is no longer Alibor noted that the chal- “Sairtel ensures that you have a set time for monetisation, experience,” he said. While most of the existing a luxury but a necessity for all. lenge of Internet access in have access to the internet users should expect monetisation Meanwhile, Clubhouse has operators lay fibre cables to We are driven by the passion Nigeria stemmed from the high irrespective of where you are of the app before the end of the since its launch 16 months provide access with lots of that all Nigerians and even all cost of deploying infrastructure.” in Nigeria. Our internet is not year. ago, received criticisms with difficulties in reaching the Africans must be connected to According to him, this has about being in the town or city, The platform, which launched projections of its market viability hinterlands, Sairtel said its the internet. If we can extend forced mobile network operators it is everywhere, whether you in the peak of the COVID-19 and controversy on its privacy service would be satellite-based internet service to the remotest to deploy services mainly in are in the forest, city, mountain pandemic in February 2020, is a restriction which does not enable hence it is unsure and can be part of Nigeria, it will create major cities, where they know top or dessert, we are there free social media app powered recording of audio contents. accessed even in the remotest a lot of opportunities. People they can easily recoup their because we are using satellite,” by voice where people discuss Davison, while responding to parts of the country. can learn anything through investments. “While you are he added. an infinite number of topics some of the challenges, said his in, ‘rooms.’ The absence of team was working to enhance the video allows people to focus user interface to make room for on speaking with one another general lease to allow everyone Samsung Unveils Brand Ambassador versus talking at them. join in and explore the dynamic While fielding questions offers that the app gives. Nosa Alekhuogie Nigeria, Danny Kim, said Dakore Marketing Manager, Consumer Dakore said she was delighted from journalists Davison said: Another Co-founded of would represent the values that Electronics, Samsung Nigeria, to be chosen as an ambassador “Clubhouse is gaining popularity Clubhouse, Rohan Seth, said: Samsung Nigeria has unveiled Samsung has stood for over the Chika Nnadozie, said the signing by the electronics giant. throughout Nigeria and across “We have seen first-hand, what movie industry icon, Dakore years. of the award-winning actress, “Samsung is one of the biggest the globe with millions of people we have always believed, that Egbuson-Akande, as brand According to Kim, “The was an opportunity for Samsung brands in the world and I am jumping into a wide array of live the need to gather with other ambassador for its Consumer Samsung brand stands for to reach out to her teeming fans thrilled to be working with them discussions around music, sports, humans is universal. One thing Electronics division. Dakore, quality, innovation, change, and its customers through the at this stage in my career. This business, and every other imagin- we have always felt from the as she is popular called will be discovery, self-expression and Nigeria movie industry. “It is partnership is a mutually beneficial able subject. It is focused on its beginning was to align our working closely with the brand excellence in performance. important to us, as a brand, to relationship which I will hold vision of building an exciting, business or incentives to that and will use her star power to These very same qualities are connect with customers at all dearly,” she said, adding, “Samsung thriving, creator community in of our users or creators and do raise awareness for Samsung exemplified by Dakore whose touchpoints and,in so doing, is a brand that is well-respected Nigeria and around the world. things differently from some of consumer electronics products quality and depth of work as we have chosen Dakore who all over the world for its reliable However, we don’t have any set the other networks. With that in and ultimately contribute to mak- well as versatility as an artiste is one of the biggest stars in and durable products, which made time right now for monetisation mind, one of the things we want ing Samsung the preferred brand have endeared her to Nigerians Nollywood the movie industry it very easy for me to accept the but probably later this year. I to do is to fund our business in the West Africa sub-region. today. We are indeed very proud here in Nigeria, which is one of offer of being an ambassador for don’t know if that is summer or by investing in direct creative Speaking at the unveiling, the and privileged to have her as the passion points of people in the consumer products division fall or later but sometime around monetisation.” Managing Director, Samsung our brand ambassador.” West Africa” Nnadozie added. of the company,” she said. 28 THISDAY ˾ JULY 8, 2021 BUSINESSWORLD ANALYSIS Lessons for New Marginal Empowering Nigeria’s Youths Raheem Akingbolu writes on the place of Oilfield Awardees sponsorship in brand positioning As the marginal oilfields awardees strategise to develop and bring their allocated oil blocks to production, Peter Uzoho writes on the need for them to draw lessons from one of the previous marginal fields’ awardees and current operator of Egbaoma field
n today’s market, youths as a result of clinched 2 Gold Medals was the overall best in their population and ability to influence Junior Boys’ category, while Princess Gershom purchasing habits have become major with 3 Gold Medals was the overall best in stakeholders. Junior Girls’ category. In the Senior category, In fact, brand managers who know their Grace Oshiokpu, with 3 Gold Medals was onionsI can hardly put marketing strategies the overall best amongst the girls while Caleb together without a sizable budget allocated Joshua, with 2 Gold Medals was announced for children, youths and women because of the overall best in the Senior Boys’ category. the roles they play in influencing purchasing Community Secondary School, Okochiri, Oilfied habits. Okrika LGA, Port Harcourt, was announced However, in penetrating the youth market, the overall best school. he development of oilfields into first oil or commissioned in the fourth quarter of 2007 to music and sports are fast becoming the most At the Federal Capital Territory, John Benedict gas production poses a lot of challenges achieve first Oil. potent platform for marketing because of the who went home with three Gold Medals was to the operators. Companies that lack affinity between fans and their preferred sporting the overall best in Senior Boys’ category while the needed fund to deploy to field, the Field Development Activities activity or music stars, as the case may be. Miracle Oguama with 3 Gold Medals was right technical competence, efficient cost Since first oil in 2007, Platform Petroleum has Handlers of top brands always find the two the overall best in Senior Girls’ category. In Tmanagement and unable to collaborate with the carried out over nine work over operations, drilled areas tempting because they are the easiest the Junior category, Blessing Luka and Rufai right partners often see themselves chickening 3 Wells and executed 2 side tracks in the field till routes to the hearts of their teeming consumers. Yakubu, with 3 gold medals each, were the out of the venture, leaving the fields fallow.. date. Following the changing characteristics of the This explains why brands jostle to associate overall best in the Girls’ and Boys’ categories The challenges are quite diverse, ranging crude from the initial black oil to predominantly with the World Cup, collegiate games and respectively. from funding, fiscal terms, partnership issues, condensate, the Flow Station was upgraded in other local and global competitions. In the North East, three schools slugged it availability of enabling facility, issue of pricing and 2013/2014 to include XHP Production and For the handlers of the Maltina brand and out in Bauchi to compete for the grand prize. off-taker, for gas, as well as political, governance Test Separators to optimise recovery from the by extension the entire Nigerian Breweries’ In the end, Divine International Academy, and environmental hurdles. These challenges gas condensate Wells and to be able to handle brand portfolio, school games is the latest Government Day Secondary School, Sa’adu are partly responsible for the inability of the 40mmscfd gas production. intervention in school sports to deepen market Zungur and Government Junior Secondary 11 of the 24 marginal oilfields awarded to oil The company’s philosophy of field development penetration. School Adamu Jumba came first, second and companies during the 2003/2004 marginal fields also changed to include building a 40 mmscfd Since it held its maiden edition, the Maltina third respectively as the overall best schools. bid round to be developed till date, leading to of Gas Plant to commercialize the gas resources School Games has been regarded as a timely Expectedly, Lagos had a huge volume of their revocation and now in litigation. in the field which was later divested to PNG intervention to save the dying culture of school participants, and many students displayed their Another bid round –the 2020 marginal fields in 2014. The process optimisation and upgrade sports and more importantly, helping produce skills. However, only four athletes emerged bid round, in which 57 marginal oilfields were is ongoing to include a second bank of XHP quality young and sound minds that could as overall best in different categories. In the on offer, had just been concluded this month, and HP Separators with a condensate stabiliser rightly be called leaders of tomorrow. Senior Boys’ category, Demilade Ajayi was with 80 winners, representing 50 per cent of the package as upgrade 2.0 to handle expected increase According to the management of Nigerian crowned the Overall best MSG2021 Medalist successful bidders handed their award certificates. production from planned drilling in 2018/2019. Breweries, the Maltina School Games platform is while Alimot Alowonle emerged overall best in However, developing the assets does not end carefully designed to promote the development Senior Girls’ category. For the Junior category, in presenting or receiving the award certificates, Gas Commercialisation of children, from improving their social and Femisola Mohammed and Tiamiyu Muhammed as a number of post award issues have to be In its gas commercialisation strategy, the marginal leadership skills, to bettering their wellbeing were named overall best. looked into and addressed for the fields to be field operator has three streams consisting of XHP, through sports. At the maiden edition of the school games, brought to first oil and gas production, among HP and LP deliver 30mmscfd of gas to the Gas All over the world, sports and education the Brand Manager, Maltina, Chiamaka Efulu which is the farm-out agreement between the Plant operated by PNG which strips the NGLs, have been veritable instruments; lifting millions said; “The Maltina School Games has been original owners of the assets and the marginal LPG and Excess Propane. The Lean gas is returned out of poverty and Maltina with its School an avenue for us to support the all-round field operators. Apart from that, the elephant in to a gathering manifold and metering for the Games initiative, is getting the needed traction development of young people through physical the room, as observed by industry experts and various offtakers. The lean gas and the excess that would further aid development. activity and sport across the country and we experienced operators, is the funding challenge. gas from the XHP stream of WAGP specification Maltina School Games no doubt has fostered are grateful for the success of the 2020 games. This is because the ability of the new awardees have been committed to various offtakers. Though national unity and raised active kids with its It is so delightful to decorate our winners and to raise the needed fund as quickly as possible the plant construction/installation commenced one-month event from the State Prelims all we remain committed to continue sharing would determine whether they will be able to in 2009, the inauguration proper was in 2016. to the national finals. happiness today and beyond as a brand.” operate the fields or leave them stranded again. The company is positioning the Egbaoma Field To highlight the enthusiasm among Nigerian Though the event provided opportunity However, for the 2020 marginal fields awardees, to be a hub for the various offtakers (Powergas, children in the Maltina Games, the just-concluded for young athletes to showcase their talents, the lessons from previous awardees, who have UDIPPCO and Ssafen/Isomer) CNG projects 2021 edition witnessed a huge turnout of schools it also provided an amiable platform for the successfully operated their own marginal fields that are currently being designed and fabricated. with Lagos recording the most entries. Maltina brand to bond more with consumers. and are now contributing significantly to the Established in 2020 in partnership with Efulu, described the relationship between the Nigerian oil and gas production volumes, comes Overcoming the Challenges the Nigerian School Sports Federation, the brand and the pupils as ‘perfect partnership. handy. One of such marginal fields operators, is Sharing the company’s field development MSG has impacted over 20 million students According to him, the status of the brand has Platform Petroleum Limited, a Nigerian company trajectory at a panel session on “Plotting the by bringing together student-athletes from continued to be on the rise with the partnership that emerged from the 2003/2004 marginal fields Roadmap for a Gas-powered Economy 2030,” across the country to compete in a series of and it gladdens the heart of its promoters. bid round. one of the incisive sessions at the 2021 Nigerian track and field events for a chance to win “From any angle one chooses to look at it, Platform Petroleum currently operates the Eg- International Petroleum Summit (NIPS) in Abuja, cash prizes as well as digital devices. this is simply a marriage between a super baoma field farm-out area covering approximately the Acting Managing Director, Platform Petroleum According to the breakdown of entries and brand and the future decision makers. Maltina 136 square kilometres, which is situated in the Oil Limited, Mr. John Anim, confirmed that the record of participation in this year’s edition, is a premium brand while students’ sporting Mining Lease (OML) 38, onshore in Delta State. challenges of developing oilfields to production over 1,400 Secondary Schools across the four activities are also unique platforms that any OML 38 is located in the Northern section of the “are not new, they are very obvious.” locations namely; Abuja, Lagos, Port Harcourt global brand will love to identify with. Niger Delta sedimentary basin. Platform Petroleum According to Anim, “there are key challenges and Bauchi States took part in the competition. Speaking on his experience at the Abubakar won the field in the 2003/2004 marginal field that are faced by the marginal field operators The athletes were divided into four categories Tafawa Balewa Sports Stadium, venue of the bid rounds and commenced field development which have to do with funding, and why is that according to their ages and classes; Junior North East, where the MSG2021 was held, activities in 2005 with workover and completion a major challenge? It’s a major challenge for Boys, Junior Girls, Senior Boys and Senior Huseni Bala, a Physical and Health Education of 2 Wells with 3 completions in three of the you to finance a development project, it has to Girls. The athletes created in 100m, 200m, specialist who came from Damturu, in Yobe eight reservoirs in the major structure cutting be profitable. And most of the fields that we are 400m, 4x100m and 800m, as well as in Javelin, State, to witness the competition, described the across the field in Joint Venture Partnership with given as marginal fields, why they are marginal High Jump, Long Jump and shot-put, and a sponsorship of the competition by the Maltina Newcross Petroleum. are in two terms: probably, the volumes are very total of 44 athletes from each state qualified brand as a great motivation to the locals. The asset comprises 10,000-bopd and 30mmscfd small or the cost of development is very high to compete in the state finals. A total of 4 What the Maltina Brand has done is to capacity flowstation, 10,000 bbls storage tank, 32 and made those assets to be left fallow.” winners across four categories (Junior Boy provide a platform to launch these athletes Km 6-inches export line from the Flowstation to and Girls, Senior Girls and Boys) who were to stardom. It is believed that other corporate the Group Gathering Facility (GGF) and 16Km NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the rewarded with cash prizes up to N500, 000 bodies would learn from Nigerian Breweries to export line from the GGF to NAOC Kwale tie-in online edition on www.thisdaylive.com and other branded items. discover more talents that would have perhaps point to the Brass Terminal was completed and In Port Harcourt, WIlliams Ibinabo, who gone into oblivion in this country. THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY 29 30 THISDAY ˾ Ͷ, 2021
Photo Editor Abiodun Ajala IMAGES Email [email protected]
L-R: Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo; former Minister of Health, Dr. Julius Adelusi Adeluyi; L-R: Director, Abuja School of Social and physical thoughts, Dr. Sam Amadi; Chairman, national conscience new Governor of Rotary District 9110, Rtn. Remi Bello; his wife, Mrs. Nike Bello; Iyalode of Egbaland, Chief party (NCP), Dr. Yunnsa Tanko; and Convener, We Vote, Mr. Obinna Osisiogu; during the press briefing by (Mrs) Alaba Lawson and former Minister of Commerce and Industry, Chief (Mrs.) Nike Akande, during the alliance of civil society organisation for expansion of electoral and democratic space in Abuja...recently Installation of the new Governor of Rotary District 9110 in Lagos...recently PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE
L-R: Speaker House of Representative, Rt Hon Femi Gbajabiamila; President of the Senate, Senator Ahmed Lawan; and Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Ahmed Zainab Shamsuna, at a meeting between the leadership of the National Assembly and Ministry of Finance on the supplementary Budget submitted by the president in Abuja...recently PHOTO: JULIUS ATOI
L-R: The celebrant/Archbishop Emeritus of Ibadan Archdiocese, Most Rev. Felix Alaba Job; Ekiti State L-R: Delta State governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa; his Ondo State counterpart, Rotimi Akeredolu; Governor of Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi; and Ashipa Olubadan, Oba Sir, Eddy Oyewole, during Bishop Alaba Job’s 50th Rivers, Nyesom Wike; and Ogun state governor, Dapo Abiodun, at the Southern Governors meeting in Lagos... Episcopal Ordination anniversary in Ibadan…recently recently
L-R: Non Executive Director, Signal Alliance Technology Holding (SATH), Dr. Onyekachi Onubogu; General L-R: Group Managing Director of NNPC, Malam Mele Kyari; Minister of Environment, Dr Mohammad Mahmood Manager, CloudSA (A Subsidiary of SATH), Busola Komolafe; Executive Vice Chairman SATH, Collins Onuegbu; Abubakar; Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; and Minister of Niger-Delta Affairs, and Group Chief Operating Officer, Adanma Onuegbu during the 25th anniversary and transitioning event of Sen. Godswill Akpabio, during a town hall meeting in Abuja...recently SATH held in Lagos...recently THISDAY ˾ Ͷ,ͰͮͰͯ 31
L-R: Regional Head, North central and noth east, Access Bank Plc, Adebanji Jimoh; Customer, Chima Cassandra; Customer, Barrister Fidel Chukwudi; and Group Head, Emerging Business, Access Bank Plc, Ayodele Olojede The Bishop of Kaduna Anglican Diocese, Rev. Timothy Yahaya,(right) and the newly ordained priests, during the during the Access Bank Business club event held in Abuja… recently Trinity Diaconate and Priesthood Ordination Service at the Christ Anglican Church, Kaduna...recently
L-R: Emir of Jiwa, Dr. Idris Musa; Representative of the Chief Launcher, Air commodore Musibau Soladoye (rtd); L-R: Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor and the Interim Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Former Governor of Kwara State, Abdulfatah Ahmed; Venezuelan Ambassador to Nigeria, Nieves Velasquez Programme (PAP), Col. Milland Dixon Dikio (Rtd) during a visit by Dikio to the Defence Headquarters in Caraballo; and the Author/Vice Chancellor,University of Abuja, Professor Abdulrasheed Na’allah, at the Abuja…recently launch of three Books entitled “Seriya, Omokewu and Yoruba Oral tradition in Islamic in Abuja...recently
Honourable Minister, Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio (left) and Deputy Secretary L-R: Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN and British High General to United Nations, Hajia Amina J. Mohammed during courtesy visit to the ministry in Abuja..recently Commissioner to Nigeria, Ms. Catriona Laing at a meeting in Abuja…recently PHOTO: AYO AJAYI
L-R: Representative of the Chief of Chief of Defence Staff, Maj. -Gen. Elvis Njoku; Executive member of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (MAOWA), Mrs Fatima Nyam; Chief Civil Military Affairs, Anthony Ogun State governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun (left) and his Special Adviser on Water Resources, Engr Kunle Omozoje and Chief of Army Staff, Maj. -Gen. Farouk Yahaya, at the 2021 Army Day Interdenominational Church Otun during an inspection of the ongoing rehabilitation water plant at the Arakanga Water Works, Iberekodo, Service in Abuja…recently Abeokuta..recently 32 THISDAY ˾ , JULY 1, 2021 ÜÙßÚÏËÞßÜÏÝÎÓÞÙÜ˝ÒÓÏ×ÏÖÓÏäÏÙÌÓ ×ËÓÖ[email protected], HEALTH & LIFESTYLE Tel: 07010510430 Enhancing Civil-Military Cooperation through Free Medical Outreaches As part of efforts to enhance civil-military relations, the Armed Forces often carry out free medical rhapsodies in their host communi- ties. Chiemelie Ezeobi reports that recently, the 81 Division of the Nigerian Army carried out such free medical outreaches in Ijebu North Local Government Area of Ogun State and Ajah- Ilaje Community in Lagos
Ijebu North community at the medical rhapsody GOC 81 Division, Major General Lawrence Fejokwu, fielding questions after the outreach
The GOC; wife and Chairperson NAOWA, Mrs. Oghenerukevwe Fejokwu; other senior officers and leaders NA personnel attending to Ajah-Ilaje residents of the community
or the military, they would divisions and units of the army. tradition for the NA to regularly conduct activities of criminal elements within often want the society to At the 81 Division Headquarters, it medical outreach and grassroots social their communities. He further urged the understand that they are more was in line with the vision of the Chief services for rural communities. people present to take their medications than their guns and that’s of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Faruk He further disclosed that the exercise as prescribed by the doctors and ensure why they are often engaged Yahaya to provide a platform to further provided an avenue to enlighten the routine medical check ups as a follow up in community services to the strengthen relationship between the NA communities on the implications of drug to the exercise. Frespective communities in their Areas of and civilian populace at the grassroots, abuse, render free medical consultations and He disclosed that the areas being covered Responsibility (AOR). that they recently held several medical services and enlightenment on recruitment by the medical outreach include blood While some might see such moves as outreaches in Ijebu North Local Govern- into the NA. test, blood pressure screening, voluntary corporate social responsibility (CSR), the ment Area of Ogun State and Ajah- Ilaje The 35 Brigade CIMIC exercise was HIV counseling and dental consultations, underlying factor is that it helps to enhance Community in Lagos. extended to traditional rulers, staff of deworming and general treatment. Civil-Military Relations (CMR). In essence, Ijebu North LGA, market women, less Meanwhile, the Chairperson, Nigerian what this does is to strengthen the ties Outreach at Ijebu privileged, members of Community De- Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), binding the military and civil populace. The first medical outreach took place at velopment Association and students. The Mrs. Oghenerukevwe Fejokwu and members So, for the armed forces, it’s become an Ijebu North Local Government Area (LGA) medical services included blood pressure of the excos donated a truck load of rice act entrenched in tradition to regularly of Ogun State where the General Officer check, eye examination and medication on behalf of the division to the community. conduct medical outreach and grassroots Commanding, (GOC) 81 Division, Major for malaria and fever. Earlier in his welcome address, the social services for their host communities General Lawrence Fejokwu, also assured Baale of Ajah Ilaje land, His Royal High- the community of adequate security. Commemorating NADCEL in Ajah-Ilaje ness Murisiku Alani Oseni Ojupon ably Civil Military Cooperation At the free medical outreach conducted Not done, the division also in com- represented by Honourable Chief Wasiu The Civil Military Cooperation primarily by 35 Artillery Brigade Alamala as memoration of the Nigerian Army Day Olaosebikan Eshinlokun stated that the serves as an interface between the Nigerian part of the formation’s Civil Military Celebration (NADCEL) 2021, last weekend people of the community were delighted Army and the civil populace. For the Ni- Cooperation (CIMIC) activities, the GOC offered free medical outreach to Ajah-Ilaje to have the NA in their midst to provide gerian Army, the import of Civil-Military said the CIMIC exercise was in line Community in Lagos. medical services and distribute palliatives. Relations cannot be overemphasised. In fact, with the vision of the Chief of Army At the flag-off, the GOC 81 Division the army established the Department of Staff to provide a platform to further reiterated that the NA has a tradition of Strengthening Ties at Onigbongbo Civil-Military Affairs (DCMA) in December strengthen relationship between the NA regularly reaching out to host communities At the 9 Brigade Army Cantonment, 2010. Set up by the then Chief of Army Staff and civilian populace at the grassroots. as part of measures towards enhanced Civil Ikeja, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier (COAS), Lieutenant General OA Ihejirika, He further enjoined the communities Military Cooperation (CIMIC). General MLD Saraso, also conducted a it was positioned to serve primarily as an to be alert and report any breach of Stating that the exercise was part of the medical outreach at its host community, interface between the Nigerian Army and security within their vicinity immediately, activities lined up for NADCEL 2021 with the Onigbongbo Kingdom. The commander the civil populace and was also charged while he charged personnel that the the theme “A professional and ready Ni- said the outreach further strengthened the with the responsibility of underscoring use of force should always be the last gerian Army: A prerequisite for successful existing relationship between the army the fundamentals of Civil Military Affairs resort to solving issues. operations in a Joint Environment”, he and the host community. as a strategic national institution. Earlier, the Commander 35 Artillery further explained that the exercise was The Oba of Onigbongbo kingdom, The department is also charged with Brigade Alamala, Brigadier General Adewale meant to offer public health services to Oba Oluwasegun Adeyemi Ajasa also the introducing and transmitting the Adekoya during the flag off, noted that the the Ajah-Ilaje Community. commended the army for the outreach, core elements of effective civil-military CIMIC exercise was an integral part of The GOC also used the occasion to as well as ensuring security of lives and relations in areas of human rights, rule 35 Artillery Brigade efforts to enhancing implore the community not to relent properties in the area. His sentiments of law, negotiations liaison and conflict civil/military relations and NA’s corporate in offering assistance to the Army by were echoed by Alhaji Tajudeen Irawo, management. All these are binding on all social responsibility, adding that it is a providing timely information on the the Jagunmolu of Onigbongbo Kingdom. THISDAY ˾ , JULY 1, 2021 33 NEWS [email protected]; Website: lifelinkfertility.com FERTILITY 08033083580 $SPXO'MPVS.JMM'PSUJGJDBUJPO $PNQMJBODF&GGPSUT(FU 'JCSPJE"OE'FSUJMJUZ 1BSU (MPCBM$PNNFOEBUJPO In recognition of its efforts and by delivering food products that deliver maximum returns and investments in food fortification contain the right micronutrients support healthy living. and infrastructure, culminating and engender regulatory and The food fortification event in Nigeria’s first state-of-the-art consumer confidence.” was tagged “Scaling up in- vitamin premix facility, Crown Speaking on CFM’s food novation for a fortified future: Flour Mill Limited (CFM), the fortification achievements, Ashish fortification quality digitisation”. flour milling subsidiary of Pande, Managing Director of The event provided a Olam Nigeria, an agribusiness Crown Flour Mill Limited, high-level overview of quality conglomerate, has received highlighted that by leveraging compliance challenges in food widespread commendation for technology, the company is able fortification on local and global consistently delivering highly to determine and achieve food scales; it also explored how fortified, quality and affordable fortification data accuracy at its digitisation can solve the various food staples that meet global fully digitalized vitamins premix food fortification challenges. standards and improve public plant in Lagos. Panelists for the food forti- health. He said, “CFM’s state-of-the- fication webinar were drawn This assertion was made at art vitamins premix facility deliv- from across varying areas of a Food Fortification webinar, ers 99.9 per cent food fortification expertise in food processing organised by the Global Alliance data accuracy. We have therefore like data analytics, IT, not-for- for Improved Nutrition (GAIN), been able to choose the right profit advocacy and regulatory on Wednesday, June 30, 2021, level of micronutrients in all our sectors. the flour milling company has food product processing efforts The panelists were Dipika successfully ramped up its food in line with global best practices Matthias, Deputy Director, Nu- processing methodology through and regulatory standards.” trition, BMGF, USA; Bernard he reason some women will age developing even till about age 50 in quality partnership and acquisi- “These quality assurance Kowatsch, Head of World have fibroid at some time in some women. tion of a state-of-the-art premix investments in our food pro- Food Programme Innovation their life is simply because they 30% of women between the ages of 25-44 facility to provide food products cessing facilities are delivering Accelerator, Italy; Ashish are women and not because years have various symptoms.. Fibroids are that improve the health of the highly nutritious meals that are Pande, Managing Director, they have broken any health more common in African-American women Nigerian population. Andreas more affordable, easily accessible Crown Flour Mill Limited, rule. This introduces us to this up to 50%-80%. Bluethner, Director of Nutrition and instill confidence in all our Nigeria; Anna Zhenchuk, Tweek’s discussion centred on FIBROID AND at the Bill and Melinda Gates products across the market.” Managing Director, BioAnalyt, FERTILITY. CAUSES OF FIBROIDS Foundation (BMGF) who moder- He cited, for instance, the Germany; Zameer Haider, ated the panel discussion, said, affordable pricing structure and National Program Manager WHAT IS FIBROID? Although the exact cause is unknown, the “Olam’s CFM has been able to quality of bread produced by for Oil Fortification, Nutrition Uterine fibroids are benign (non- cancerous) growth of fibroids seems to be related to a achieve 90% food fortification bakers who use CFM’s Mama International, Pakistan; Janice abnormal growths of muscle cells and fibrous gene that controls cells growth. When the compliance in flour production Gold flour in their bakeries. Zdankus, Vice President of tissue within the uterus (womb). They are gene functions normally, cells grow normally. to deliver foods that change the Because our flour brands contain Innovation for Social Impact, also called myomas or leiomyoma. Fibroid When the gene is not functioning, cells grow lives of people who suffer from the right micronutrient mix, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise, occur when a single muscle cell in the wall and divide at an accelerated rate in this way, food deficiency diseases.” has qualities like better water USA; Harun Rashid, Chair- of the uterus multiplies and grows to form one cells becomes two, two cells becomes He added: “Olam’s approach absorption and taste, the bakers man, Shakti Edible Oil, a non-cancerous tumor. It is a medical fact four etc. until finally a mass or fibroid of this offers a sound model for other prefer to buy the flour brands Bangladesh; and Imtiaz Masud, that most women will have fibroids during cells is detected. Fibroid growth is affected food manufacturers which seek for making bread that meets Head of QA & EMS, Bangladesh their lifetime. Usually, fibroids development by the reproductive hormones estrogen and to drive business competitiveness consumers’ shrinking wallet, Edible Oil, Bangladesh. occurs when a woman is in her thirties progesterone. When these hormone levels or forties. In the past, women of this age decrease at menopause, many of the symptoms would have completed a family. But today, or fibroids begin to resolve. However, it is many women have children later in life not clear whether theses hormones actually 'JOBM:FBS4UVEFOU6SHFOUMZ/FFET due to career progression, urbanization, cause the fibroids to occur. For example, and other factors. It is more common now women who have had high levels of both /NGPS.FEJDBM#JMM to start a family in the thirties or even of these hormones as a result of pregnancy forties, rather than early twenties. Fibroid or birth control pills have a lower incidence r$BMMTPOTVSHFPOTGPSQSPQFSQSPDFEVSF can change the size and shape of the uterus of fibroids later in life. A 23-year-old final year her change after she paid, a can’t even eat through the and sometimes the cervix (lower part of the Abnormalities in the blood vessels around student of Ekiti State University, trailer was reversing without mouth and she can’t speak. uterus/womb). Women usually have more the uterus may play a role in development Kausarat Taiwo, who became looking back. It incidentally We grind her food into liquid, than one fibroid tumor but single fibroids of fibroids. incapacitated after a fatal auto hit the tricycle,” he explained. then feed her through the pipe are possible. Whether fibroid may cause Chemical changes of the body that causes crash last March, is in dire As a result, Kausarat’s throat connected to her stomach. symptoms or requires treatment depends tissue to grow may also be involved as the need of N15 millions for her was slit and she sustained other That makes us cry. Who will on their number, location and size. This cause of these abnormal growths. medical bills. grave injuries that deformed be home feeding her through makes understanding the potential relation- Kausarat, who is currently at her figure. the stomach? ship between fibroids and infertility very WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF the Lagos University Teaching “We rushed her to General “We are looking for what important. FIBROIDS? Hospital (LUTH), is bedrid- Hospital Ikorodu before she can be done to get her better den and feeds through pipes was transferred to LUTH. We for the sake of her future,” WHERE DO FIBROIDS GROW? Some women do not experience any connected to her throat and have spent over N4 million. while calling on Nigerians to symptoms and have no complications stomach. “Besides the surgery bills come to Kausarat’s rescue. Fibroids are usually found in or around the throughout life. According to her elder and others, we buy drugs Taiwo pleaded: “We also body of the uterus (womb), but sometimes The symptoms of fibroids also depend on brother, Habeed Taiwo, the for about N45,000 daily. We need assistance to take her are in the cervix. These locations determine the location and size of the fibroid. victim was a final year Mass pay N50,000 for ICU each aboard for a proper surgery. If the type and possible effect on the woman. t $IBOHFJONFOTUSVBMnPXXIJDINBZ Communication student, who day,” he lamented. any plastic surgeon can render t 0VUTJEFPSXJUIJOUIFPVUFSMJOJOH be excessively heavy (menorrhagia) which was returning to Lagos from Although Kausarat has assistance of any form, please (Sub serosal) includes blood clot, irregular menstruation, school in March when the tragic been discharged, her family let them help us.” t 0O TUBMLT FYUFOEJOH GSPN UIF increased menstrual cramping and pain, accident occurred at Ikorodu, members are worried, as she Donations can be made uterus (Pedunculated) spotting. close to their residence. still feeds from the pipes and to 0628426258 Busari Taiwo t 8JUIJOUIFVUFSJOFNVTDMF *OUSB- t 1BJOJOUIFQFMWJTPSMPXFSCBDL “She got to PZ at Odogwuy- yet to gain her vocal ability Sarafa GTB while the family mural) t 1BJOEVSJOHJOUFSDPVSTF aya in Ikorodu on a tricycle. back. can be reached on 08038407729 t #FUXFFOUIFVUFSJOFCSPBEMJHBNFOUT t 1SFTTVSF PS GVMMOFTT JO UIF MPXFS While the driver tried to give Taiwo lamented: “My sister for further enquiries. (Submucosal) abdomen with increased urination. Submucosal fibroid are the type of fibroids t 4XFMMJOH PS FOMBSHFNFOU PG UIF that have clearly been demonstrated to abdomen. *NP:PVUIT1MFEHFUP1BSUOFS6/*$&' /0" UP reduce pregnancy rate, roughly by 50% and removal of which will double pregnancy RISK FACTORS FOR FIBROIDS &OE'(.1SBDUJDFJO$PNNVOJUJFT rate. In some cases simply removing the submucosal fibroid solves infertility. Often, "OVNCFSPGGBDUPSJOnVFODFUIFSJTLTPG Amby Uneze ÓØáÏÜÜÓ FGM Coalition in communities He added that it was time but not always, submucosal fibroids can use developing fibroids. These include: of the state”. to end the practice and liberate heavy periods, or bleeding between periods. t /VNCFS PG QSFHOBODJFT 8PNFO Imo youths have pledged Drawn from the 37 communi- the girl child from unnecessary Cervical fibroids are rare; most fibroids with one or more pregnancies that extended readiness to work with the ties of Isu and Njaba LGAs, suffering. develop from the uterine muscle (myome- beyond 5 months have a decreased risk of United Nations Children’s Fund the youths thanked UNICEF “Today we have come to sign trium). fibroid formation. (UNICEF) and the National and NOA for bringing the the membership list and pledge Fibroids can also be connected to the t 6TFPGCJSUIDPOUSPMQJMMT6TFPGCJSUI Orientation Agency (NOA) to campaign to end FGM to rural form of the ‘Male Engagement uterus by a stalk (pedunculated), or organs, control pills can generally protect against end Female Genital Mutilation communities. Alliance to End FGM Coalition’. such as the bladder and bowel. Fibroids are fibroids, but the use of the birth control (FGM) in the state. Speaking on behalf of the “The pledge is a demonstration rarely found outside the cavity. at an early age (between age 13 and 16) The youths made the pledge youths, Mr. Geoffrey Nnogwarim, of our readiness to synergise with may be associated with an increased risk at Njaba Local Government Area youth leader of Amaiyiaku com- UNICEF, NOA and other support HOW COMMON ARE FIBROIDS? for fibroid) of Imo State during a recent two- munity in Njaba LGA frowned bodies for an end to FGM in day workshop tagged : “Male at the negative physical and our communities and our state Fibroids are quite common and found in 20 TO BE CONTINUED Engagement Alliance to End psychological effects of FGM. at large”, he said. -80% of women of reproductive/childbearing 34 THISDAY ˾ , JULY 1, 2021 NEWS Smile Train Wins 2021 NHEA Special Recognition Award Sunday Ehigiator Smile Train has developed palate patient. “Our vision is has access to high-quality life,” she said. Over 6,000 babies are esti- partnerships with 50 hospitals to continue to work towards comprehensive cleft care and is According to the World mated to be born with cleft The 2021, Nigerian and provided life-changing a world where every person able to live a full and healthy Health Organisation (WHO), annually in Nigeria. Healthcare Excellence Award cleft surgeries to nearly 30,000 (NHEA), has honoured Smile patients.” Train, world largest free cleft/ Speaking with journalists palate care provider, with a after receiving the award ‘Special Recognition Award’, which was presented by the for its excellence support of Lagos State Governor, Babajide healthcare professionals via Sanwo-Olu, who was represented trainings and funding, and by the state’s Commissioner for also providing a 100 per cent Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, free cleft care to Nigerians. Smile Train Program Director At the event which was for West and Central Africa, held last weekend at Victoria Mrs. Nkeiruka Obi, appreciated Island, Lagos, the organisers the organisers for recognising described Smile Train, which the efforts of the non-profit was founded 22 years ago organisation. to support free cleft lip and According to her, “it is a palate care for children and great pleasure for us at Smile adults in the developing Train to be so recognised by an world, as a phenomenon. award body as prestigious as In a statement by the NHEA. We want to say thank organisers, it said Smile Train you to Nigerians who counted uses a unique sustainable us worthy for nomination, and and scalable global health eventually voted for us to go on model for cleft treatment, to win this. while also empowering local “We say a big thank you to all medical professionals in the our partners whose cooperation cleft ecosystem. “Smile Train has made it possible for Smile has provided over 1.5 million Train to be recognised for free cleft surgeries across the excellence not just in Nigeria world, with active programs but globally. The dream is Smile Train Program Director for West and Central Africa, Mrs. Nkeiruka Obi, alongside other Smile Train Staff and Partners, receiving the NHEA in 40 African countries. to continue to put a smile Special Recognition Award as presented by the Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, on behalf of Lagos State Governor, “In Nigeria, since 2007, on the faces of every cleft/ Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the recently held 2021 Nigeria Healthcare Excellence Award Experts Advocate Food Hope Consortium Develops Solution Fortification to Stem for Vaccine Delivery Globally
Malnutrition Rebecca Ejifoma the battle against the COVID-19 Comprising leading Abu vaccines in parallel with a pandemic. Dhabi entities, the Department digital solution monitoring and Kasim SumainaÓØÌßÔË dization and sugar vitamin A The HOPE Consortium has The effort places Abu Dhabi of Health – Abu Dhabi, Abu reporting on the supply chain fortification programmes, “it developed one of the most as the central life sciences hub Dhabi Ports, Etihad Cargo, Rafed, progress and compliance,” the Experts in food, nutrition is time to broaden the scope extensive and integrated, end- for the global response to the SkyCell, and Maqta Gateway, as firm added. and health, have identified inculcating micronutrients in to-end supply chain solutions in pandemic by leveraging its well as a wide body of global With this, the Hope Con- micronutrients fortification our foods to stem the tide the world, capable of delivering strategic position as a gateway logistics players, the HOPE Con- sortium can deliver vaccines of commonly consumed of malnutrition due to lack millions of vaccines from the to two thirds of the global sortium is developing capacity from the manufacturing plant foods as the key to ending of micronutrients.” point of production to the point population. to transport, store, and distribute to those in need anywhere in malnutrition. Ajieroh further stated that of vaccination safely, effectively, The HOPE Consortium says 18 billion Covid-19 vaccine doses the world. Adding that “As a The experts said micronu- it is also important to reflect and transparently. it has pooled the collective ex- per annum to countries around growing international effort, the trients fortification is a major the voices of all stakeholders This development, which is pertise of its partners to provide the world including Nigeria. Consortium has added a number strategy against malnutrition including such as industry in collaboration with AD Ports, multi-faceted logistics services “The partners have come of world-class logistics partners and can create a huge break- players, the government and Etihad Cargo, Rafed, Skycell, to handle transport, demand together to leverage their unique including Aramex, Bolloré through in healthy living. consumers in the fortification and Maqta Gateway, aims to planning, sourcing, training, and capabilities to offer the world Logistics, Agility, DB Schenker, They made the call recently drive. deliver vaccines to all those in digital technology infrastructure, a complete end-to-end vaccine DHL, FedEx Express, MICCO at a National Fortification While pointing out major need, irrespective of where they to facilitate vaccine availability delivery solution covering both Logistics, Hellmann and Kuehne Dialogue to discuss viable interventions and policies by find themselves, and help win across the world. the physical movement of the + Nagel, RSA Global, and UPS”. options to scaling up nutri- the government in promoting tion through food fortification food fortification for im- held in Abuja, as part of the proved nutrition, Permanent United Nations Food Systems Secretary of the Federal NYSC Holds Free Medical Outreach in Osun Community Summit, (UNFSS), Ministry of Budget and Yinka Olatunbosun being present at the venue were on ground to provide Another beneficiary said: Country Director of of National Planning, Mrs. of the campaign, over 200 the people with health talk “IDF is known for its devel- Global Alliance for Improved Olusola Idowu, said the As part of their efforts to people were tested with free and free medication. opmental strides in Ileogbo Nutrition, (GAIN), and con- federal government has realise a positive development testing equipments, provided The Chief Imam of Ileogbo, and environments. I’ve always vener of the meeting, Mr. held several meetings with in Ileogbo and its environ- free medication such as Sheikh Nafiu Shifaudeen been a beneficiary of their Michael Ojo, noted that the stakeholders to identify ment, Ileogbo Development anti-malaria, hypertensive, Adeyemo who was present activities. I pray God continues development and advent of challenges to ending Forum (IDF), a non-profit anti-diabetics and multivita- at the occasion offered the to strengthen them in unison food fortification is a major micronutrients deficiency. developmental organisation mins, among other primary opening prayer, got tested and continue to promote their game changer in food based Idowu while urging based in the headquarters of ailments at the Ileogbo Grade and received drugs. developmental agenda,” said innovations. the participants, said: Ayedire Local Government, C Court, Oja Ale, and given Speaking to the journalist Mr Kola Abeeb. He explained that the lack “We have to come up State of Osun, has facilitated appropriate health talk on after the programme, Mrs The Health Initiative for of micronutrients in the body with actionable and and sponsored an Health Ini- benefits of exercise, good Adisa Tawaklit who benefited Rural Development is an is a major health risk and that implementable plans to tiative for Rural Development, food and resting, in the from the programme said: annual programme by the is why it is often referred to tackle micronutrients which is organised nationwide ancient town. “This is quite impressive as National Youth Service Corps as the ‘hidden hunger. deficiency through food by NYSC officials. There were six doctors, I’ve been tested for free and that seeks to provide health According to him, “GAIN fortification.” With the NYSC officials three pharmacists, five nurses got drugs, something which I succour for the people in rural is driven by a vision of a Discussion also centred from the state headquarters and six NYSC officials who can’t afford personally.” communities. world without malnutrition on the importance of hence we look forward to food labelling for easy of undergoing an inclusive identification of fortified contribution to this cause. processed and packaged Catholic Church Expresses Desire to Partner “We work in Nigeria to food, proper identification deliver support among vul- for farm produce as well Lagos Govt to Improve Healthcare Delivery nerable groups and children as the laws put in place by Ugo Aliogo Church has always collaborated and giving of waivers to the with the view of providing under the age five and we government to ensure compli- with government. church in procuring the equip- a state-of-the-art treatment for hope to change the narrative ance by industry actors in The Catholic Archbishop of He also stated that it is the ment that she needs. cancer such that people will not on micronutrients deficiency.” safeguarding the health of Lagos Archdiocese, Dr. Adewale basic duty of government to According to him, “One travel abroad to get treatment Similarly, Senior Pro- the populace. Martins, has expressed the desire provide healthcare for the people, of the things we have asked for cancer. grammes Officer, Bill and The meeting drew experts of the archdiocese to partner the but since government cannot the government to do is the “We are in discussions with Melinda Gates Foundation, from government agencies, state government to improve do it alone, therefore there is provision of an ambulance to medical personnel in India Dr. Victor Ajieroh, said rais- the National Fortification Al- healthcare delivery in the state. need for private sector and faith ensure that the services we who specialise in this area of ing awareness about food liance, (NFA), the Institute Martins, who disclosed this based organisations to assist. offer here will synchronise medicine so that we can learn fortification has gradually of Public Analyst of Nigeria, during the 10th anniversary The archbishop expressed well with similar healthcare from them, and collaborate with become part of a global (IPAN), Technoserve, The celebration and commissioning confidence that the collabora- institutions in the country. them to provide the services, so movement Civil Society Scaling Up Nu- of ultra-modern intensive care tion with government would be “Concerning the issue of that people will not spend too He observed that after the trition in Nigeria,(CS-SUNN), unit and orthopedic theatre with further strengthened especially our plans for the future, much for treatment overseas in successes recorded in salt io- and other stakeholders. C-ARM, stated that the Catholic with the provision of equipment the hospital was started order to get treated. THISDAY ˾ , JULY 1, 2021 35 INTERVIEW
Caroline Jehu-Appiah: Championing the Generation Equality Forum Caroline Jehu-Appiah is the Deputy Director, Health, Nutrition and Eradication for Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, based in the Nigeria Country Office. With over 25 years experience spanning public health, nutrition, human capital development, and program management across the health sector, she was also was largely responsible for advancing Universal Health Coverage, as well as the Lead Policy Advisor to the President on health, nutrition and human capital development. As one of the directors on Generation Equality Forum, she spoke with Chiemelie Ezeobi amongst other things, on the new report about ‘Women and the Impacts of COVID-19’, the essence of the Generation Equality Forum and what impact it is intended to have on women in developing economies
an you tell us about the strengthening health systems and we also have to move the needle and see improvements in Generation Equality Forum investment in agriculture. malnutrition in the next five to six years. and why it is so important So at the country level those are the high priority for women in developing areas and so far I think in Nigeria, the foundation One of the major challenges concerning countries? has invested close to $1.6 billion, you know, since health in Nigeria is financial barrier to ac- The Generation Equality we started engaging with Nigeria. cessing health services, what do you think Forum will be transforma- is the way out? tional for woman and girls With all these gaps, what do you think Well, there are a number of challenges or across the world and in Africa in particular. This the government should be doing to improve bottlenecks, I will like to categorise them as supply isC to say we have not had a moment like this for on some of the identified lapses? challenges so that would be health financing, as gender equality in a quarter of a century and it There is a lot that the government can do I said, Nigeria is allocating very little or not at comes at a very important time as women have and just to highlight that some of the African all in line with the Abuja declaration of 15 per been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. countries have already made actionable and funded cent allocation. Nigeria has stagnated around six So this forum is an opportunity for leaders commitments ahead of the gender equality forum. per cent for the past 10 to 12 years. There is the around the world to commit and be held account- For example, President Kenyatta of Kenya issue of infrastructure, Nigeria has over 30,000 able. And it’s not just the right thing to do, it will increased funding to help tackle issues around health facilities and yet only 20 per cent of those also be critical for the world economic recovery gender violence. Other African countries have are functional. from the pandemic and 2021 must be a year of also stepped up to the task that would be South So the issues of infrastructure, the issues around action for gender equality. So the Generation Africa, Kenya, Burkina Faso, Rwanda and Malawi, human resources I mean, one can look at all the Equality Forum is basically our opportunity to so what we expect from government is their building blocks, you know human resources in match the urgency of this moment and deliver commitment not just around policy advocacy terms of skill mix and capacity to deliver directory for women and girls. And this is the first time but also financial commitment, because the services. There is the issue of continuing medical that we have such a diverse range of participants, difference between this forum and the Beijing education which is almost nonexistent, you know you know from the private sector to government, Forum is that this time around, we are going when all the nurses are graduated from school civil society that are coming together, to act on to hold government accountable so it’s not just very few of them have had any a continuing gender equality and the need for this basically talking the talk and shedding the spotlight on medical education, training, there were the issues stems from the evidence that we have today that Caroline Jehu-Appiah issues around gender equality but it’s also to around supply chain and commodities. the gender gap in global employment is widening. get governments to commit resources to move As you know, the supply chain is very fragmented And the current economic recovery rate is failing have from the International Labour Organisation that agenda forward. And, as I said earlier, a and broken and that’s what the foundation is women and as male unemployment rates are (ILO) and some of our partners, female unemploy- number of African countries have already made also working to support, we have a number of falling female unemployment rates are still on ment is on the rise. When we started, we kind policy and financial commitment, so it will be investments on that. There’s also the issue of cost the right, this is why it’s so important to act on of assumed that recovery is slower for women great if Nigeria could also do the same, because, of health systems in general, issues around access this now and it’s so timely, given that the last but things are getting worse. This is why it is as you know, issues around gender equality are to health care services, because in Nigeria, most gender conference was held almost a quarter of so important to get the commitment from the a challenge in Nigeria and would need to be of the services are funded out of pocket, in fact, a century ago in Beijing. global leaders and civil society to commit and addressed when empowering woman. close to 75 per cent of health services assessed by be held accountable to advance gender equality Nigerians are paid out of pocket and this is why How can Nigeria strengthen her Universal and ensure gender equality is put at the centre Is there any plans to assess the impact there is the drive to scale up the implementation Health Coverage because we are really lagging of the recovery efforts. of the report on women? of the national health insurance scheme and at behind in that regard? The difference, as I mentioned earlier, between the state level state health insurance scheme. There is a lot that needs to be done, and even I am aware the BMGF released a report this forum and the Beijing Forum that was held There is the issue of service delivery, you though as you said, Nigeria is lagging in health on gender and the pandemic, what are the in 1995 is that issues around gender equality are know which ties in with human resources with outcomes and SDGs, a lot of progress have been highlights of this report? going to be institutionalised. the quality of care, capacity issues and then on made, progress in terms of under-five mortality, Well, the highlights of the report are basically that So the plan is to have annual fora where profess the demand side people are not accessing health there have been some progress in terms of maternal women have been disproportionately affected. In and commitments to gender equality can be tracked services as they should be and especially around mortality, access to family planning. There’s been terms of employment and also in terms of assess so that is the good thing about this Generation COVID, as we all know, there was a disruption some progress in routine Immunisation service, to family planning, you know during the lock Equality Forum, so it’s not just going to be a to essential healthcare services. which has gone up. So I think, in a nutshell, we down, a lot of women have not had the access one off event but there’s going to be a cadence As I mentioned earlier, because healthcare is need to make progress in strengthening our health to the various family planning commodities and of meetings. And the plan is to have annual financed out of pocket, so the financial barrier system as well. And also, especially for Nigeria, option. The foundation is committed to bridging meetings to track progress track commitments to individuals that are living in poverty is a you know that, for the past 15 years the health the gap in Family Planning support, globally towards the coalition teams or coalition actions huge one. And of course issues around women sector has been grossly underfunded and in fact and also for Nigeria. The highlight of the report of the GEF. empowerment, they don’t have the agency, especially the COVID pandemic has been a wakeup call prioritised Family Planning. in the north they need to seek permission from to show that Nigeria has been underfunding its Sadly, malnutrition is still a big problem their husband to have to access health care and health sector response. The budgetary allocation Are you targeting underserved communities in Nigeria, so how will you use your wealth to deliver in health facility so all those issues never exceeded six per cent. or generally across the country? of experience to tackle that? compounds and have resulted in the situation So the COVID Pandemic has been an opportunity We are working closely with teams on financial Yes, it is a very good question and very timely, that Nigeria has found itself. to shine the light on the fact that Nigeria needs to social protection, so the target of course, is the as you rightly said, malnutrition issues are still The COVID crisis is an opportunity to do things invest more in health because health costs money. vulnerable woman and vulnerable household. Also around us still and it is quite prevalent especially differently, so Nigeria as a country should not And if you look across West Africa, Nigeria is in terms of our programmatic approach, every in the north and we just kicked off a $15 million waste the crisis and use it to rethink in terms of hitting way below its peers, in terms of health investment that the foundation is implementing investment which is called Accelerating Maternal, how to invest more in the health sector, because sector allocation. in Nigeria there’s a deliberate and conscious Infant and Child Health Nutrition, so this is just one pandemic can bring the economy to a So it’s a combination of factors, it’s about making effort to make it gender intentional and gender going to be one of our platform flagship where halt as we see. So it makes economic sense, not sure that health systems are strengthened , it is transformational. we will be working with six northern states just from the health angle, but it makes economic about staying the course on our programmatic So through our investments and everything including Lagos. sense for any country to invest in health because responses around all our priority disease areas. that the foundation does, because our mission, as We are hoping this investment to be transfor- a health pandemic can disrupt the economy so But the most important is funding to the health you know is to ensure everybody has a chance to mational. And we are going to work with existing the opportunities are there to make progress on sector, because you know primary healthcare is lead a healthy and productive life and over the partners, building on lessons from our previous that front. the vehicle to achieving universal health coverage, years we’ve invested over $ 50 billion towards investment to build a requisite capacity amongst yet we know that at the state level, the data that this course, so we are now making a deliberate the stakeholders, and we are going to target not So going forward what do we expect from we have less than three per cent is allocated to effort for the past three four years to put that just the supply side, that is not just the facilities, the foundation? primary health care any less is released. into action. the community health workers, but also demand The foundation is going to stay the course on its You know, so the health sector, the state level side, because a lot of issues around malnutrition commitments, as I mentioned earlier our mission really has very little to work with, so if one needs Can you break it down , the figure you are economic, they are behavioral. is to ensure everyone has equal opportunity to to ask, what the priority should be, I will say mentioned that was invested in what areas? So this is going to be a multi-pronged approach, lead a healthy and productive life and as I said increasing funding for health and as I said COVID Well, the figure I’m quoting is the support the because issues of malnutrition are multi facto- over the past 20 years we’ve invested over $50 has been wake-up call. foundation has provided since its inception, for rial that a lot of bottlenecks that needs to be billion, but then just to say that our resources over 20 years and you know health is our biggest addressed like women’s education women’s are just a drop in the bucket compared to the What has been the impact on women priority. We also have investments in agriculture, economic capabilities. Also, nutritional knowledge total need. and children? we have investments in water, sanitation and also as to what nutritious foods to give to children So with all our interventions, given all our priority Of course, the COVID pandemic has dispro- education, those are the high level priority areas. and also to build the capacity of our health areas of focus which spans across maternal and portionately affected women in terms of global But at the foundation in Nigeria, focus is basically care providers at the community level to counsel child health, infectious diseases, research agenda employment not just locally and in Nigeria that health and health, we have about six priority women and to use the existing platforms around we are going to stay the course and committed to gap in global employment is widening and the areas, so we invest in polio, as you well know, anti-natal care and postnatal care because that is supporting countries achieve the mission, which COVID recovery efforts are failing women more. in routine Immunisation in maternal child health where we have to make sure that opportunities is to ensure that everyone has a chance to lead As male unemployment are falling, the data we and family planning and in nutrition. Also in are not missed and hopefully we will be able healthy and productive life. 36 THISDAY ˾ ˜ Ͷ˜ͰͮͰͯ BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE FG Seeks CBN Funding of Workers’ Housing Scheme Olawale Ajimotokan ÓØ She said the move would However, the programme has ÌßÔË address the concern of the been constrained by poor funding, increasing cost of housing, lack of budgetary allocation, non- The Office of the Head of high interest rate on mortgage availability of land and mortgage Service of the Federation has finance and the poor funding of and alternate financing, among opened discussion with Central the Federal Government Housing other critical areas. Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to make Loan Board, which served as Yemi- Esan said her office was special intervention in the Federal primary mortgage institution in talk with the federal govern- Housing Loan Board. for the FISH Programme. ment loan board to make loan The intervention is expected In addition, she said the civil available to workers for them to to ameliorate the poor financing service is also engaging chief pay back within the period of of the Federal Integrated Staff executives of some relevant their service rather than approve Housing Programme (FISH). MDAs of government to mobilise such loans when they are about The Head of Civil Service of support of their institutions exiting service. the Federation (HoS), Dr Folasade for the implementation of the She also said the Ministry Yemi-Esan, stated this during housing programme. The FISH of Works and Housing has the commissioning of 18 units programme was initiated in 2015 allocated five hectres of land of two-bedroom block of flats as a welfare scheme to provide at Gwagwalada Area Council at Technocrats Estate, Mararaba, quality and affordable housing to to the FISH programme, while and 54 units of block of flats at civil servants through facilitation efforts are being made towards Solutionist Estate in New Karshi, of loan and mortgage facilities the mobilisation to site as soon Nasarawa State for civil servants. at a single interest rate. as possible. FCMB Explains Rising Support for SMEs Yemi-Esan First City Monument Bank statement to commemorate this what it takes to compete at the (FCMB) has explained that its year’s International MSME Day, highest level in the international increased support to SMEs is marked recently. market, but without the requisite aimed at further empowering The annual event provided exposure and support, it can be MARKET INDICATORS them to take the lead in the an opportunity to raise public very difficult to succeed. growth and development of awareness of the contributions of “We strongly believe that SMEs MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) Nigeria’s economy. such businesses towards ensuring need genuine support to play a According to the bank, this is sustainable development, poverty frontal role in the development JANUARY 2021 because SMEs are one of the key alleviation, empowerment and of individuals, communities and Money Supply (M3) 38,779,455.43 drivers of the country’s push for other benefits. the country in general, especially economic prosperity due to their Commenting on the signifi- as the world battles to overcome -- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors 1,039,129.55 potential to create jobs, reduce cance of the International SMEs the negative effects of COVID-19.” Money Supply (M2) 37,740,325.88 poverty, boost production and Day and commitment of FCMB He added that, “we are also economic activities. to businesses, the Group Head, inspired by the fact that our -- Quasi Money 21,779,302.69 To this end, the lender has Business Banking of the Bank, market leading propositions -- Narrow Money (M1) 15,961,023.19 urged business owners to keep Mr. George Ogbonnaya, said the and support to SMEs have pace with current and emerging Day is important to the financial consistently made real impact ---- Currency Outside Banks 2,364,871.13 realities in order to make their institution as a major operator in on businesses and the economy respective businesses productive the global business community. in general. We will continue to ---- Demand Deposits 13,596,152.06 and competitive, which will According to him, “we provide the right platform and Net Foreign Assets (NFA) 7,414,275.50 lead to progress for them and recognise the role of SMEs as opportunities to empower our the nation. catalysts for sustainable devel- customers to take their businesses Net Domestic Assets(NDA) 31,365,179.93 FCMB made this known in a opment. SMEs in Nigeria have to greater heights”. -- Net Domestic Credit (NDC) 42,916,586.63
---- Credit to Government (Net) 12,304,773.44
NCRIB Endorses Heirs Insurance Companies ---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA 0.00
The Nigerian Council of to watch out for in the market. Nwakuche, in her address, ac- ---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA) 0.00 Registered Brokers (NCRIB) A critical examination of your knowledged NCRIB as an has endorsed Heirs Insurance workforce and your enthusiasm important stakeholder in the ---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS) 30,611,813.19 Limited (HIL) and Heirs Life to host this members’ evening at business of insurance, liaising --Other Assets Net 3,892,112.74 Assurance Limited (HLA), a time like this is a pointer to a between customers and insur- describing both companies as greater business exploit you are ance firms. Reserve Money (Base Money 13,264,585.14 progressive with their array of poised to accomplish.” She emphasised the mission of product offerings and promise She further described the Heirs Insurance while introduc- --Currency in Circulation 2,831,167.19 of excellent service. companies as brokers’ friendly, ing the company to the brokers --Banks Reserves 10,433,417.96 ˾ÙßÜÍÏ̋ The President of NCRIB, endorsing the companies as present: “We are on a mission to --Special Intervention Reserves 317,234.17 Mrs. Bola Onigbogi, said this partners for brokers to collaborate democratise insurance and make while speaking at a meeting with. “I guarantee you for your it accessible to any and every of the council that was hosted endorsement by my professional one. To achieve this, we paid Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) by HIL and HLA. Onigbogi colleagues”, she added. careful attention to the needs Month March 2018 said, “I have no iota of doubt Welcoming the hosts of the mee of every customer across all the Inter-Bank Call Rate 15.16 in my mind that Heirs Insurance The Acting CEO, Heirs social circles, while building our and Heirs Life are companies Insurance Limited, Dr. Adaobi products. Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR)
Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) 14.00
LAPO Relaunches Integration Project Treasury Bill Rate 11.84
Lift Above Poverty Organisa- Also speaking, LAPO’s Health in children prevention, HIV/ Savings Deposit Rate 4.07 tion (LAPO) has relaunched Project Consultant, Professor AIDS, and the dangers of self- its integration project with Omokhoa Adeleye, said the medication, among others. 1 Month Deposit Rate 8.82 LAPO MfB, which ensures project entails health sensitisation The project is being imple- that clients of the bank equally and screening of clients as well mented in 16 LAPO MfB zones 3 Months Deposit Rate 9.72 access health services. as building referral linkages with including the FCT, with health 6 Months Deposit Rate 10.93 According to LAPO’s Executive government-approved health staff of LAPO deployed to Director, Dr. Honestus Ayo Oba- facilities. branches within these locations. 12 Months Deposit Rate 10.21 diora, the project was structured The health education messages, The development has brought to improve the health status of according to him, include sensiti- about an expansion in the number Prime Lending rate 17.35 beneficiaries by reducing hospital sation on malaria, modern family of states covered by LAPO with Maximum Lending Rate 31.55 attendance and the cost or burden planning methods, pregnancy regards to health screening and of ill health due to preventable care, cervical cancer, hepatitis-B, sensitisation activities amongst diseases and related conditions. child immunisation, diarrhoea clients of LAPO MfB. ˾ÙØÏÞËÜãÙÖÓÍãËÞÏ̋ͯͱϱ Eunisell Pledges Support for Marginal Field Owners OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE ˜ʹ ͰͮͰͯ The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $75.94 a barrel on Tuesday, Oil Service Company, Eunisell select owners of marginal fields their capital expenditure and Limited has pledged assistance in Lagos. Speaking at the occa- get to first oil. compared with $75.71 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. to new owners of Marginal Oil sion, the Managing Director of Marginal field owners in The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan & Gas Fields in Nigeria, in order Eunisell Limited, Chika Ikenga Nigeria face significant challenges Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light to accelerate the development affirmed his company’s com- that hamper the development of (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), of their fields. The commitment mitment to support winners of their fields. Some of these chal- Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and was made at a recent meeting the recent marginal field bid lenges include lack of technical Merey (Venezuela). between Eunisell Limited and round in Nigeria, to reduce and financial resources. THISDAY ˾ ˜ Ͷ˜ͰͮͰͯ 37
FCMB Pensions Targets Growth, Acquires 60% Stake in AIICO Pensions Goddy Egene cent would be acquired from concluded the acquisition of a 60 transaction structure approved by regulators, only 33.9 per cent of Commission (PENCOM), the other shareholders to bring the per cent stake in AIICO Pension regulators. The goal is to combine AIICO Insurance’s shareholding transaction is subject to a merger FCMB Pensions Limited, a total of 96.3 per cent. Managers Limited. the businesses of FCMB Pensions in AIICO Pensions was sold to of AIICO Pensions and FCMB subsidiary of FCMB Group However, a year after that “This is made up of 33.9 per and AIICO Pensions to build FCMB Pensions instead of the Pensions. This is in compliance Plc, has finally acquired 60 per disclosure, FCMB Pensions was cent stake held by AIICO Insur- a stronger and more resilient 70 per cent stake indicated in with the PENCOM’s circular cent stake in AIICO Pensions only able to acquire a total of 60 ance Plc and 26.1 per cent stake business,” FCMB Group said. our earlier notification to the ref: PENCOM/INSP/CIR/ Managers Limited, a subsidiary per cent stake in AIICO Pensions held by other shareholders in On its part, AIICO Insurance exchange. FCMB Pensions also SURV/15/03 of September of AIICO Insurance Plc. Managers. AIICO Pensions. The acquisition notified the NGX that it had bought 26.1% stake held by other 21, 2015 which states that “no Both firms had in June In a notification to the Nigerian makes AIICO Pensions an indirect completed the sale of its 33.9 shareholders in AIICO Pensions individual, group of individuals 2020, disclosed that they were Exchange (NGX) Limited, the subsidiary of FCMB Group Plc. per cent shareholding in AIICO thereby making FCMB Pensions or company shall have direct or in discussions with the aim of FCMB Group said its pension The acquired stake was reduced Pensions Managers Limited to a majority shareholder with 60 indirect ownership/shareholding FCMB Pensions acquiring 70 per management subsidiary, FCMB from the initial 96.3 per cent stake FCMB Pensions Limited. per cent stake in AIICO Pensions. of 5.0 per cent and above in cent of AIICO Pensions from Pensions Limited, had received in our notification to the NGX on Based on the transaction “In line with the approval more than one licensed pension AIICO Insurance ,while 26.3 per relevant regulatory approvals and 25 June 2020 to comply with the structure approved by the from the National Pension fund operator”. PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED AS OF 07/07/2021
MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED PRICE TRADED ( N ) PRICE TRADED ( N ) 38 THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY MARKET NEWS
A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an ETF are bought by investors. Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. investment vehicle that allows both small and Bid Price: The price at which Investors Investors with similar objectives buy units of the large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total that willl generate their desired return. investments. The assets are divided into shares that return an investor would have earned on An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. his investment. Money Market Funds report of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, Yield while others report Year- to-date Total bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, GUIDE TO DATA: Return. etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 06- NAV: Is value per share of the real estate shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the Jul-2021, unless otherwise stated. assets held by a REIT on a specific date. DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Equity Fund 156.45 158.00 -3.29% Nigeria Entertainment Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 4.68% GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Nigeria International Debt Fund 320.35 320.35 -20.60% Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 Afrinvest Dollar Fund 111.17 111.17 -0.82% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD [email protected] GDL Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 ACAP Canary Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Income Funds N/A N/A N/A Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.76% AIICO CAPITAL LTD [email protected] Vantage Balanced Fund 2.89 2.96 1.24% Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 4.50% AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.54% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 151.11 151.39 -2.82% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.26 3.42 -3.97% Vantage Equity Income Fund (VEIF) - June Year End 1.28 1.32 1.42% [email protected] Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End 1.09 1.09 0.03% ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fi[email protected] Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 3.35% Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.41 1.43 3.47% Anchoria Equity Fund 134.18 135.71 0.88% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,152.00 1,152.00 4.26% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.10 1.10 -17.33% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A Meristem Equity Market Fund 11.42 11.47 9.02% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 424.78 437.59 6.10% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 7.50% ARM Ethical Fund 38.22 39.37 13.38% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.09 1.09 -1.17% Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 ARM Fixed Income Fund 0.96 0.97 -8.14% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 5.90% PACAM Balanced Fund 1.68 1.70 7.11% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED [email protected] PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.50 11.55 -5.21% Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 3.78% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Equity Fund 1.65 1.66 4.04% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 105.02 105.02 3.25% PACAM EuroBond Fund 111.34 113.03 1.29% AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED [email protected] SCM CAPITAL LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A SCM Capital Frontier Fund 131.37 133.68 4.23% CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED [email protected] SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD [email protected] Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CEAT Fixed Income Fund 1.97 1.97 -16.38% SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.01 1.01 3.41% Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.06 2.10 -14.97% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com ; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund N/A N/A N/A Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.85% Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Paramount Equity Fund 16.52 16.82 3.28% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) N/A N/A N/A Women's Investment Fund 136.11 137.68 2.27% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 6.93% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 117.19 117.96 United Capital Balanced Fund 1.28 1.30 0.49% Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 N/A N/A United Capital Bond Fund 1.89 1.89 3.38% Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 107.09 107.09 United Capital Equity Fund 0.86 0.88 8.30% CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT [email protected] United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.44% Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 United Capital Eurobond Fund 118.69 118.69 3.72% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.06 1.07 3.72% Coronation Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A United capital Sukuk Fund 1.06 1.06 5.55% Coronation Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD [email protected] Coronation Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Zenith Equity Fund 12.86 12.97 8.39% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 3.18% Zenith Ethical Fund 14.09 14.21 15.33% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 2.71% Zenith Income Fund 24.15 24.15 0.74% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,139.53 1,149.73 -0.40% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 4.96% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] REITS Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS REIT 124.09 2.77% FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,384.83 1,384.83 11.12% Union Homes REIT 51.54 -1.64% FBN Balanced Fund 190.05 191.37 1.26% EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS FBN Halal Fund 110.96 110.96 8.60% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 9.20% Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund 13.20 13.30 -0.11%
SIAML Pension ETF 40 124.66 127.62 3.61% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 125.94 125.94 3.45% FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 158.34 160.52 4.74% Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund 98.78 100.89 -0.46% MERGROWTH ETF 17.81 17.91 FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] MERVALUE ETF 17.94 18.04 Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Legacy Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund 3.97 4.01 5.16% Legacy Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund 5.95 6.03 4.54% Legacy USD Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund 17.37 17.47 7.06% Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Vetiva Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 4.42% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund 19.16 19.36 -6.57% Coral Balanced Fund 3,663.50 3,714.63 -2.18% Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund 151.57 153.57 -30.82% Coral Income Fund 3,358.16 3,358.16 2.50% INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn Coral Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 5.57% Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund 107.52 13.11% The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only. THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY 39 BURIAL OF DR JOE NWODO - Appreciation. The Nwodo family of Ukehe, Igbo Etiti Local Government Area of Enugu State overwhelmed by theoutpouring of love and affections by Nigerians during the burial of their trailblazer and patriarch, Dr Joseph Nnabuchi Nwodo on June 5, 2021 wishes to register their sincere and heartfelt appreciation. The roll call is in-exhaustive but we cannot but recognize the solidarity from the following persons and groups:-
PRESIDENT MUHAMMAD BUHARI WHO SENT POLITICAL LEADERS CHIEF ADEBANJO –AFENIFERE A HUGE DELEGATION TO THE BURIAL, MINISTERS/FORMER MINISTERS PRINCE UCHE SECONDUS –NATIONAL PROF GEORGE OBIOZOR –OHANAZE VICE PRESIDENT, PROF YEMI OSIBANJO HON GEOFFRY ONYEAMA CHAIRMAN PDP CHIEF OF STAFF TO THE PRESIDEN.T PROF HON ADAMU ADAMU ALHAJI BASHIR TOFA ROYAL FATHERS IBRAHIM GAMBARI HON OTUNBA NIYI ADEBAYO CHIEF OLISA METUH HRH IGWE NNAEMEKA ACHEBE-OBI OF HON UDECHUKWU SAMSON OGAH CHIEF BEN OBI ONITSHA FORMER PRESIDENTS PROF ABC NWOSU ALHAJI IDI FAROUK HRH IGWE. AMB. LAWRENCE AGUBUZU GEN OLUSEGUN OBASANJO HON TIM MENAKAYA CHIEF NWEKE GBAZUAGU NWEKE –CHAIRMAN ENUGU STATE COUNCIL OF GEN IBRAHIM BABANGIDA HON CHIEF TOM IKIMI CHIEF OKECHUKWU EZEA (IDEKE) TRADITIONAL RULERS GEN ABDULSALAMI ABUBAKAR DR OKEY ENELEMAH HRH ETUBOM JUSTICE CHARLES EFANG DR GOODLUCK JONATHAN PROF. ONYEBUCHI CHUKWU CLERGY ARCHIBONG ALHAJI ATIKU ABUBAKAR HON PROF CHINEDU NEBO MOST REV. PROF GODFREY ONAH- CATHOLIC HRH IGWE CHRIS OGAKWU PROF BARTH NNAJI BISHOP OF NSUKKA MEMBERS, ENUGU STATE COUNCIL OF GOVERNORS/PAST GOVERNORS. HON PRINCE JOHN EMEKA MOST REV. CALLISTUS ONAGA- CATHOLIC TRADITIONAL RULERS H.E RT HON IFEANYI UGWUANYI OF ENUGU PROF OSITA OGBU BISHOP OF ENUGU STATE HON FRANK NWEKE JNR MOST REV. JOHN OKOYE- CATHOLIC BISHOP OF WOMEN LEADERS H.E DAVE UMAHI OF EBONYI STATE CHIEF CHUKA ODUM AWGU PROF MRS UCHE AZIKIWE CHIEF GABRIEL ADUKU DAME BEATRICE EKWUEME H.E SEN HOPE UZODINMA OF IMO STATE MOST REV. PAULINUS EZEOKAFOR- CATHOLIC BARR. MRS VIVIENE ENWEREM H.E SEN. IFEANYI OKOWA OF DELTA STATE AIR VICE MARSHAL CANICE UMENWALIRI BISHOP OF AWKA CHIEF SHARON IKEAZOR H.E DR KELECHI IGWE, DEPUTY GOVERNOR MOST REV. SOLOMON AMATU- CATHOLIC OTHER LEADERS OF EBONYI STATE HON DUBEM ONYIA BISHOP OF OKIGWE AMB FIDELIA NJEZE GEN. CHRIS GARUBA H.E SEN. JIM NWOBODO MOST REV. DR EMMANUEL CHUKWUMA- AMB. GEN. CHRIS EZE. H.E CHUKWUEMEKA EZEIFE ANGLICAN BISHOP OF ENUGU PAST/PRESENT MEMBERS FROM FEDERAL MAJOR GEN. VICTOR EZEUGWU H.E OGBONNAYA ONU MOST REV. ALEXANDER IBEZIM- ANGLICAN BRIG. GEN. J.O.J OKOLOAGU H.E BABATUNDE FASHOLA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES. BISHOP OF AWKA BRIG. GEN. FRED EZE H.E RT HON WAZIRI TAMBUWAL RT HON PATRICIA ETTEH FMR SPEAKER. MOST REV. ALOYSIUS AGBO- ANGLICAN BISHOP BRIG. GEN. GODWIN UGWOKE H.E SEN CHIMAROKE NNAMANI RT HON TUNDE AKOGUN OF NSUKKA H.E SEN. SAM EGWU RT HON MARTINS OKEH MOST REV. SOSTHENES EZE- ANGLICAN BISHOP CHIEF OGBONNA ONOVO _FMR IGP H.E SEN GODSWILL AKPABIO HON EMMA IBESHI OF NGWO CHIEF MIKE OKIRO- FMR IGP H.E SEN. ALI MODU SHERIFF HON JONES ONYERERI PRIEST OF ENUGU AND NSUKKA DIOCESE CHIEF CHRIS OFFOR H.E CLEMENT EBRI HON NDUDI ELUMELU REV. SISTERS OF ENUGU AND NSUKKA DIOCESE CHIEF GEORGE UWECHUE H.E LUCKY IGBINEDION HON PRINCE CORNELIUS NNAJI CONGREGATION OF ST PETERS &MOTHER OF MR EMEKA ODENIGWE H.E PAULINE TALLEN HON CHRIS AZUBOGU CHRIST PARISHES, UKEHE MR STEVE IKENGWU H.E CHIGOZIE OGBU HON PRINCE OFOR CHUKWUEGBO ENGR BEN. O. NGWUOCHE H.E ACHIKE UDENWA HON NNOLI NNAJI IN-INLAWS DR STEVE OKOLO H.E EMEKA IHEDIOHA RT HON IFEANYI IBEZIM OBAYIS, ONUGUS, ISICHEIS, ASOGWAS. OBA DONALD NWANDU H.E SEN CHRIS NGIGE RT HON FRANK UGWU NWANKWUS, OWELLES, AZINGES CHIEF NDUKA EYA H.E PETER OBI AMB FIDEL AYOGU WAKELEY JONES, EKPANG, ZAKARIYA, OYOGUS CHIEF VINCENT ANIGBO H.E SEN ORJI UZOR KALU RT HON OGBUEFI OZOMGBACHI CHIEF BEN EZEUGWU H.E SEN THEODORE ORJI PROF HON SAM OYOVBAIRE DIPLOMATIC COMMUNITY CHIEF FESTUS ODUMEGWU H.E ADMIRAL ALISON MADUEKE HON PATRICK ASADU CLAIRE PERANGELO , CONSULAR GENERAL US CHIEF FERDINAND AGU H.E JAMES ONANEFE IBORI HON PEACE NNAJI EMBASSY CHIEF VICTOR AGU H.E DAME VIRGINIA ETIABA HON GAB AGBO CORPORATE COMMUNITY CHIEF ENGR CHRIS OKOYE H.E OKECHUKWU ITANYI HON CHIJOKE EDOGA HIGH CHIEF RAYMOND DOKPESI CHIEF IKEJE ASOGWA H.E CECILIA EZEILO HON MARTINS OKEH CHIEF TONY ELUMELU CP LAWRENCE ALOBI H.E STEVE LAWANI PRINCESS STELLA NGWU CHIEF ABC ORJIAKOR CHIEF ABEL NWOBODO DR COSMAS AGU CHIEF MATTIAS OMEH SENATORS/FORMER SENATORS. JUDICIARY. ENGR DAMIAN IFEANYI EZE DR DAN SHIERE JUSTICE C.C. NWEZE-SUPREME COURT DR BASIL ONUGU SEN. IBRAHIM LAWAN-SENATE PRESIDENT CHIEF ENGR VITA ABBA CHIEF SN OKEKE SEN. KEN NNAMANI- FORMER SENATE JUSTICE RALPH AGBO- COURT OF APPEAL CHIEF SAM ONYISHI (PEACE MASS TRANSIT) JUSTICE UZO NDUKWE -ANYANWU CHIEF DAN ULASI PRESIDENT CHIEF ONYEMUCHE NNAMANI (AUTORSTAR) CHIEF JOHN UDEAGBALA SEN. DAVID MARK- FORMER SENATE JUSTICE PRISCILLA NGOZI EMEHELU-CHIEF CHIEF FESTUS OSHABA ( FEROTEX) JUDGE OF ENUGU STATE. HON SOLOMON ONAH PRESIDENT HON PRINCE EMEKA MAMAH(IFESINACHI HON SIMON ATIGWE SEN. IBRAHIM MANTU-FORMER DEPUTY JUSTICE A.N NWANKWO MOTORS) JUSTICE J.G.O. ANEKE HON KINGSLEY EBENYI SENATE PRESIDENT CHIEF IFEANYI OKOYE (JUHEL) CHIEF OKEY NWADINOBI SEN. IKE EKWEREMADU -FMR DEPUTY CHIEF CHRIS UCHE SAN CHIEF EVARISTUS NNAJI (ODENGENE) CHIEF REX ONYEABOR SENATE PRESIDENT CHIEF FERDINAND ORBIH, SAN CHIEF ANAYO ONWUEGBU (OMEIHUKWU) CHIEF CHINYEAKA OHA SEN. AYOGU EZE CHIEF ANTHONY IKEMEFUNA IDIGBE SAN CHIEF CELESTINE NWALI SEN. ENYINNAYA ABARIBE CHIEF MIKE OZEKHOME SAN ACADEMIA CHIEF NIJI ADELAGUN SEN. CHUKA UTAZI CHIEF SEBASTINE HON. SAN PROF CHINEDU NEBO CHIEF AINA DAISI SEN. EMMA ANOSIKE CHIEF ARTHUR OBI OKAFOR, SAN PROF PAT UTOMI CHIEF SOLOMON ARASE SEN. UCHE EKWUNIFE LOUIS NNAMDI MBANEFO SAN PROF SIMON ORTUANYA (SSG ENUGU STATE) CHIEF MAC ORUCHE SEN ANNIE OKONKWO PROF EPIPHANY AZINGE SAN PROF CHARLES ILEGBUNE SAN CHIEF CHARLES ODUNUKWE SEN NURA ABATEMI USMAN MIKE AJOGWU SAN PROF OFILI UGWUDIOHA CHIEF VEN ONWUAGHALU SEN MIKE AJEGBU ALL THE JUDGES OF ENUGU STATE JUDICIARY REV. FR EMEKA NGWOKE DR & MRS NGOZI EZI SEN UGOCHUKWU UBA ENUGU STATE BAR ASSOCIATION PRO. MAURICE IWU LATE PN OKEKE FAMILY SEN OSITA IZUNASO PROF AUGUSTINE NWEZE LATE M I OKPARA FAMILY SEN GIL NNAJI POLITICAL LEADERS PROF ATHENSIUS EZE LATE IGWE ILOEJE FAMILY SEN CHRIS ADIGIJIE PRINCE UCHE SECONDUS- NATIONAL PROF DAMIAN OPATA SEN EMMA AGBOTI CHAIRMAN OF PDP PROF FABIAN AJOGWU SAN GROUPS SEN UDO UDOMA ALHAJI BASHIR TOFA PROF CLETUS AKUBUILO UKEHE TRADITIONAL RULERS &UKEHE PEOPLE. SEN ANTHONY AGBO DR DOYIN OKUPE PROF SIMON ASOGWA NSUKKA LAWYERS ASSOCIATION, NLAN SEN MUSA ADEDE CHIEF OLISA METU PROF LAWRENCE OCHO NSUKKA JOURNALISTS FORUM, NJF SEN COLLINS NDU PROF HILARY EDOGA UKEHE LAWYERS SEN HAD. ABUBAKAR SIRIKA PAST /PRESENT MEMBERS OF STATE ASSEMBLY. PROF MALACHY UKWUEZE WAWA LAWYERS FORUM SEN GBEMISOLA SARAKI HON UCHENNA UBOSHI - SPEAKER ENUGU PROF AUGUSTINE NWEZE NSUKKA GENERAL ASSEMBLY SEN. BEN OBI STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY PROF CYPRIAN ONYEJI NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION. SEN ANNIETE OKON HON FESTUS UZO PROF DENCHRIS ONAH HOPE FOUNDATION NIGERIA SEN EHIGIE OZAMERE HON OGBONNA CHARLES ASOGWA PROF ELOCHUKWU AMUCHEAZI ADA NSUKKA ASSOCIATION SEN. PETER NWAOBOSHI HON JONATHAN CHUKWUMA KNIGHTS/LAUX OF ST JOHN HON EUGENE ODO ETHNIC LEADERS BETA SIGMA FRATERNITY NIGERIA CHIEF EK CLARK –PANDEF SIGNED: H. E DR OKWESILIZE NWODO FOR THE FAMILY 40 THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY THURSDAY JULY 8, 2021 • THISDAY 41 42 THISDAY • THURSDAY, JULY 8, 2021 NEWSXTRA 24 Killed as Boko Haram Fighters Raid Communities in Adamawa Daji Sani in Yola away from Gahara, the hometown sporadically and setting houses and and also looting of food items and village and other hamlets in Hong a neighbouring community. of the Secretary to the Government shops ablaze. other valuables. LGA. As at noon yesterday, sources say of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Sources within the affected areas It was gathered that the terrorists The affected areas are about six to the Boko Haram fighters were still No fewer than 24 persons have been Mustapha. revealed that the terrorists, came in first stormed Dabna village near 10 kilometres to the dreaded Sambisa operating within the area. killed by gunmen suspected to be The community is said to have large numbers shooting sporadically Gahara the village of the Mustapha, Forest, the enclave of the terrorists. However, a joint security task force Boko Haram terrorists in Dabna, a come under attack in the early hours to scare the security forces in those before attacking the other communities. Witnesses said residents scampered comprising of the Army, Air Force, farming community three kilometres of yesterday, with insurgents shooting areas to pave away for them to carry One of the sources said the terrorists into the nearby bushes for safety even and the police, have been drafted to out their heinous crimes of killing continued their attacks to Kwapre as the gunmen proceeded to invade the embattled communities. I Didn’t Sponsor Bill to Criminalise Protests, Says Lawmaker
Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja Constituency in the Green Chamber of the National Assembly, whose Bill that passed first reading on the The member of the House of floor of the chamber was twisted Representatives representing Ahiazu and misrepresented. Mbaise and Ehinihitte Mbaise Federal “The caption of the Bill that went Constituency of Imo State, Hon. viral was never my intent or opinion, Emeka Chinedu has said that he neither was it an embodiment of didn’t sponsor a bill criminalising the Bill I sponsored that passed protests in the country. the first reading on the floor of In a statement he issued yesterday, the National Assembly on Tuesday, the lawmaker clarified that his bill July 6, 2021; hence, a clear case of which passed the first reading on misunderstanding, misconception Tuesday was twisted and misinter- and misrepresentation of the facts. preted, saying it was not seeking “As a representative of the people, to jail protesters. whose political idealogy is rooted Chinedu said as a product of in democratic tenets, I can never democracy he would not sponsor be a party to a system that seeks any bill that would criminalise to stifle or cripple dissenting voices protests and protesters. whose right to freedom of assembly, “Having been inundated with calls expression and protest is guaranteed and messages over a misconception by the combined effort of section gone viral, I wish to state that I am 39 and 40 of 1999 Constitution as the PDP House of Representatives amended, as well as Article 11 of member representing the good people the African Charter on Human and of Ahiazu/Ezinihitte Mbaise Federal People’s Right to freely assemble. Court Jails 12 Students for Two Years GATHERING SUPPORT FOR AMNESTY… over Internet Fraud in Enugu Chief of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor (left), and the Interim Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme, Col. Milland Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja Venita, through a fake Telegram Dixon Dikio (rtd), during the interim administrator’s visit to the Defence Headquarters in Abuja…recently account, with intent to obtain money from unsuspecting foreign nationals The Economic and Financial Crimes and thereby committed an offence Commission (EFCC), Enugu Zonal contrary to Section 22(3) (a)(b) of the Office, yesterday secured the convic- Cybercrimes Prohibition, Prevention Malami: No Illegality in Re-arrest of Kanu tion of 12 students before Justice ,Etc) Act,2015 and punishable under IM Buba of the Federal High Court section 22 (4) of the same Act”. The Attorney General of the Federa- Abubakar Malami (SAN) has judicial process by a competent The AGF said it was important sitting in Enugu on charges border- The convicts: Izuchukwu Chuk- tion and Minister of Justice, Mr. described the ideas attributed to court of law, whose bail condition to educate Madu that both Nigeria ing on forgery, impersonation and wuemeka Goodness,Okechukwu Abubakar Malami, has defended the one Kelechi Madu as outrageously Nnamdi Kanu breached with (his country of birth) and Canada obtaining money from unsuspect- Ifeanyichukwu, Nwabueze arrest of the leader of the proscribed ignoramus opinions that are ec- impunity. There was no illegality in where he practises law, are signa- ing foreign nationals under false Ifeanyi,Egbo Chijioke Gerrard, Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), centric and weird to the legal the entire process and the question tories to the Multinational Treaty pretences. Ekene Oputa, Iloegbunam Justine, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, saying there profession. of illegality does not even arise. Agreement where, among others, A statement by EFCC said they Edeh Chukwuebuka Michael, Edeh was no illegality in the manner of “It is unfortunate for someone “It is a common principle of the fugitive fleeing justice in nations were prosecuted on one-count Izuchukwu Dominic, Iloegbunam arrest of the IPOB leader. who claims to be a lawyer of a law that he who comes to equity with similar agreement could be charge. Paschal Onyeka, Ogu Chukwuebuka He has also described the views status of a Solicitor General of must come with clean hands. brought back to face justice. The charge preferred against one Kingsley, Mbanugo Ifeanyi and Edeh of the Solicitor General of Alberta a provincial state of Alberta in Malami wondered why Madu “It is a pity that as a Solicitor of the defendants reads, “that you Emmanuel pleaded guilty to the in Canada, Mr. Kelechi Amadi, Canada to fault the internationally- never spoke up when Kanu was General of a province, Madu failed Mbanugo Ifeanyi on or about the separate one-count charge. regarding the arrest of Kanu as an recognised manner through which inciting violence against Nigeria. to keep himself acquainted with the 10th Day of March 2021 within Justice Buba convicted and “outrageously ignoramus opinion Nnamdi Kanu who jumped bail “Where was the so-called Madu provisions of general laws of the the jurisdiction of this Honourable sentenced them to two years that is eccentric and weird”. was re-arrested and brought back when Nnamdi Kanu was inciting country where he stays as well as Court fraudulently impersonated imprisonment with an option of Malami stated this yesterday in to face trial,” the statement said. violence against the country? Why, international laws,” said Malami. one Ornale Sylvestermanda and N1 million fine each. a statement that was issued by the Malami also insisted that there as a lawyer, would Madu support The AGF urged the Canadian Special Assistant on Media and was no illegality in the arrest of a fugitive who jumped bail and public officer to go back to educate Publicity to the Office of the AGF, Kanu. accused of terrorism and treasonable himself in matters of the law, Dr. Umar Gwandu. “It was abundantly clear that felony? What stopped Madu from adding that Madu only left for House Okays Bill Seeking to “Attorney General of the bench warrant was lawfully and voicing out dissent on the atrocities Canada after failing to succeed Reserve 5% of Gencos Revenues for Federation and Minister of Justice, judiciously procured through of Kanu and their group?” he asked. in his country of birth. Host Communities Akpabio: 12,128 Abandoned Projects Uncovered by Forensic Auditors Udora Orizu in Abuja representatives of the host communi- ties, upon agreement between the Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja forensic verification exercise have a courtesy visit to his office, The minister revealed further host communities and the GENCOs been revealing, adding that, “the maintained that, ““most of these that, “since the discovery of crude The House of Representatives at on one part and the trustee on the The ongoing forensic audit of Niger process has been transparent, we abandoned projects have become oil in the region 1956, several the plenary yesterday passed for other part. Delta Development Commission listed 9,080 projects to be considered sanctuaries to criminals. Projects interventionist agencies had been second reading a Bill seeking an He explained that the monies accru- (NDDC) has uncovered 12,128 in the verification process but in were embarked on without con- set up to address the social and amendment to the Electric Power ing from this fund will be applied to abandoned projects without a less than three months the report sultations. environmental degradation of the Sector Reforms (EPSR) Act 2005 to sustainable infrastructural development trace of contractors who the jobs so far shows that 12,128 projects “There was no initial coordina- area, but they all failed to provide provide for the reservation of five projects, job creation, improvement of were awarded to, Minister of Niger has been discovered as abandoned tion. So, as part of its mandate, the the needed succor to the people. In per cent of all revenue accruing education, empowerment and skills Delta Affairs Godswill Akpabio, has projects with no specific ownership Ministry has adopted a program other to address the situation, the from power generated by all power acquisition for youths, women and disclosed. attached to.” called “Strategic Implementation present administration decided to generating companies in Nigeria for other vulnerable groups, provision The minister said the interim Akpabio who made the disclosure Work plan” which will coordinate set up a forensic auditing process to the development of the host com- of medical facilities and personnel report of the forensic verification while hosting the United Nations the activities of development part- access and evaluate the achievements munities. The proposed legislation, and any other developmental project exercise has been revealing, adding Deputy Secretary-General, Hajia ners and stakeholders to prevent that have been made by NDDC which was read for the first time on agreed to consequent upon a needs that the “Interim reports of the Amina Mohammed, who paid duplication of projects in the region.” in the region since its existence”. February 23, 2020, is sponsored by assessment. Hon. Babajimi Benson. Benson said: “Setting aside five Leading the debate on its general per cent of revenue generated by principles, Benson said the purpose of GENCOs for developmental projects Nami: FIRS Generated N650bn Revenue in June the amendment is to lawfully provide in host communities will further James Emejo in Abuja biggest revenue haul since the efforts at modernising tax administra- filing of Company Income Tax for the development of communities promote peaceful and harmonious assumption of office of the current tion in the country, the FIRS recently (CIT) returns with December 31, hosting power generating companies coexistence in these communities. management of the agency. introduced the solution for ease of 2020 accounting year-end whose across the country. In line with the recommendations The Executive Chairman of Federal In a statement issued yesterday tax compliance. statutory tax returns were due not He said when passed, the bill will by this honourable House for five Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Mr. by the Director of Communications According to him, the technology later than June 30, 2021. help to ameliorate the untold hardship per cent of oil companies operating Muhammad Nami, yesterday dis- and Liaison Department, FIRS, Mr. “enables seamless registration, filing, Nami also encouraged them to and infrastructural degradation often expenses (OPEX) to be allocated to closed that over N650 billion was Abdullahi Ahmad, Nami attributed payment of taxes and automatic credit take advantage of the extension as suffered by communities hosting host communities in oil-producing generated as tax revenue in June the performance to the efficiency of withholding tax as well as other it “provides an opportunity to all power generating firms as a result states as contained in the PIB, a law by the agency. and effectiveness of the technol- credits to the Taxpayer’s accounts, taxpayers whose company Income of the adverse climatic, livelihood and requiring that a similar five per cent He said the amount represented ogy, TaxProMax solution deployed among other features. It also provides Tax returns were due in June 2021 to public health effect of their activities. of expenditure by GENCOs be al- the highest revenue realised in a notwithstanding the challenges and a single-view to Taxpayers for all file up to the July 31, 2021” According to him, the revenue located to their host communities will single month since the start of the resistance faced in the early stages of transactions with the service”. The TaxProMax platform, which referred to shall be received, managed engender equity, fairness and even COVID-19 pandemic. its adoption as well as the downturn He further reminded taxpayers took off on June 7, is a channel for and administered by a trustee to development in similar communities He added that it was also the occasioned by slow economic recovery. of the one-off one-month extension filing naira-denominated tax returns be appointed by the GENCOs and across Nigeria. He pointed out that as part of its granted earlier this month for the in the country. THISDAY • THURSDAY, JULY 8, 2021 43 NEWSXTRA Tambuwal Signs Legislative, Judicial Financial Autonomy Bill into Law
The Governor of Sokoto State, Aminu commitment of Nigerian governors months, there was unsubstantiated democracy in 1999, no president ago, I received a memo from the state of the Assembly for their cordial Waziri Tambuwal, yesterday signed to the independence of the judiciary claimed against the governors that has ever issued executive order, it attorney-generals; commissioners of relationship with the executive, into law the legislative and judicial and legislature. they were against the judicial and only happened during Buhari’s reign,” finance, and budget and economic which he said enable him to deliver financial autonomy passed by the He explained that no governor legislative financial autonomy, which the governor added. planning of the 36 states relating to dividends of democracy to the people state House of Assembly. in Nigeria is against the legislative he said is not true He maintained that the president some gray areas about our agreement of the state. Speaking after the signing cer- and judicial autonomy. According to him, “The public was was ill-advised, noting that the with judicial and legislative workers Earlier, the Speaker of the state As- emony, the governor reiterated the Tambuwal disclosed that over some misled because they decided to hear governors are challenging the order in order to resolve some issues.” sembly, Muhammad Achida, thanked from the other side, not from us.” in court. Tambuwal congratulated the the governor for the cordial working The governor, who faulted order Tambuwal noted that the contro- Speaker and members of the state relationship with the Assembly ir- 10 issued by President Muhammadu versial order 10 is not part of their House of Assembly for passing the respective of political divergence, as PDP Chieftain Kidnapped in Edo, Buhari, stressed that the order is agreement with the legislative and gender based violence bill, challenging he promised to give the governor unnecessary. judicial workers before they suspended them to also pass the Child Rights the full support in order to deliver Abductors Demand N20m Ransom “The issue is a constitutional the strike. Act. dividends of democracy to the people matter; since we revert back to The governor said: “Just some days He further thanked the members of the state. Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-city way by the kidnappers. According to a source, who pleaded anonymity, Iyiriaro was A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic driving to his community in Party (PDP) identified as Ugbo Umoghunokhua with plan to return Iyiriaro, has been reportedly to Benin-city shortly before he was kidnapped on the Benin-Abraka intercepted by criminals. road in Edo State. The source disclosed that the The incident, as gathered, kidnappers had already made occurred last Tuesday between contact with the family of the victim, Ugo and Ugboko community in demanding N20 million ransom. Orhionmwon Local Government When contacted on the phone, Area of the state. the state Police Command Public It was learnt that the victim left Relations Officer, (PPRO), Bello Benin-city last Tuesday to attend to Kontongs, did not answer the several an urgent issue in his community calls made to his mobile phone as when the journey was aborted half at the time of filing the report. Nasarawa Fixes LG Elections for October 6 Igbawase Ukumba in Lafia The NASIEC chairman said: “The commission has, therefore, by the powers conferred on its fixed The Nasarawa State Independent October 6, 2021, for chairmanship Electoral Commission (NASIEC) and councillorship elections across yesterday fixed October 6, 2021, for all the 13 LGAs and 147 electoral the conduct of both chairmanship wards across the state. and councillorship elections across “Ideally, elections to immediately the 13 local government areas and replace the out-gone council officials 147 wards of the state. would have since been done, but The tenure of the 2018 local logistics issues and many more government council elected officials unforeseen factors combined together ended on May 28, 2021, thereby to make the elections impossible,” CONGRATULATIONS… creating leadership vacuums in the he stated. 13 LGAs of the state. L-R: Former Vice Chancellor, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike, Ebonyi State, Prof. Chinedum Nwajiuba; Executive Usman concluded that all things Secretary, Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Abubakar Adamu Rasheed; Ebonyi State Governor, Mr. Dave Umahi; Vice However, the Chairman of the being equal, the commission was NASIEC, Ayuba Wandai Usman, set to exercise her statutory respon- Chancellor, King David University of Medical Sciences, Uburu, Ebonyi State, Prof. Jesse Uneke; and deputy Executive Secretary, NUC, disclosed at a press conference sibility of organising, undertaking Mr. Chris Maiyaki, celebrating the approval of King David University of Medical Sciences by the NUC in Abuja ...recently yesterday that the electoral body and supervising elections into local has voted over N600 million to government areas as enshrined in conduct the local council election the 1999 Constitution (as amended) in the state. and other relevant laws. Niger School Girls’ Abductors Slash Ransom to N50m Laleye Dipo in Minna of N200million ransom to set disclosed that they have reduced The source, said one of the Court Orders Oyo to Pay N61m Debt to them free. the ransom to N50million. abductees was made to talk to the Two weeks ago, N20million was The bandits, according to the head teacher in which she allegedly Nigeria Railway Corporation Abductors of the 156 female pupils reportedly taken to the bandits, source, vowed that they would complained that: “We are suffering, of the Salihu Tanko Islamiyya School, which was collected, but they not release the girls unless the please come and rescue us.” Tobi Soniyi enforce the judgement in Lagos State. Tegina, Rafi Local Government refused to release the abductees amount is paid. When contacted, the school Head However, the defendants refused Area of Niger State have slashed on the ground that the money was “We are prepared to hold the Teacher, Alhaji Alhassan Abubakar, to pay the judgement sum of N60 the ransom demanded from the short by N2million. girls till eternity if the money is confirmed the story. In a bid to satisfy a judgement sum millions being the compensatory of N61million, a Lagos State High parents of the girls to N50million. THISDAY was however told not paid; we will continue to feed He said: “We are hoping on amount evaluated by both parties The bandits, who abducted that the bandits and their contacts them, and you will pay for the God for something to happen, Court at the Tafawa Balewa Square to be paid to the applicants. has ordered that N61million belong- the girls or over a month ago, got in touch with the head teacher feeding,” the source quoted the which will lead to the release of The applicants’ lawyer argued had initially demanded the sum of the school during which they bandits as telling the head teacher. our children.” ing to the Oyo State Government that the defendants maintained bank domicile in Polaris Bank be paid to accounts with the 23 commercial the Railway Property Management banks listed before the court, and Company Limited, and the Nigeria then urged the court to issue an Protest Hits Ibadan over Raid on Igboho’s Residence Railway Corporation (NRC). order giving effect to the consent The order of the court was sequel judgement as the defendants have not Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan But the family members and to an application filed and argued to Sanyo and Soka areas of the sum of N500 million as compensa- appealled the judgement sought to be relatives of those arrested during before the court by a Lagos lawyer, Oyo State capital. tion for Igboho from the federal enforced by the garnishee proceeding, the protest staged yesterday at the Dr. Francis Chuka Agbu SAN on Loyalists, supporters and family They later moved to Challenge government and DSS as requested neither has any application for stay Soka area of the Ibadan residence behalf of Railway Property Manage- members of those arrested during and Molete areas, demanding for by his counsel, Chief Yomi Aliyu of execution been filed. of Igboho, called for the release ment Company Limited and NRC. the raid on a Yoruba activist, Chief the immediate release of the arrested (SAN). In her ruling, the trial Judge, E. I. of their kinsmen, describing the In an affidavit in support of the Sunday Adeyemo (aka Sunday persons. The monarch, however, urged Alakija (Mrs.), ordered that the sum arrest as illegal. application sworn to by a legal Igboho), residence last Thursday The protesters at the palace of the protesters to stop spreading of N60 million held in any current, The protesters, who were practitioner, Caesar Anyeabosi, by operatives of the Department the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba rumours on social media accusing savings, revenue or investment ac- dressed in black attires, called the deponent averred that Railway of State Service (DSS) yesterday Saliu Adetunji, issued a seven-day traditional rulers of collecting money counts in whatever form or name on the DSS to release the arrested Property Management Company thronged major streets in Ibadan, ultimatum to the federal govern- from the federal government. with the listed banks belonging to persons. Limited and NRC instituted a legal Oyo State, demanding the release ment and the DSS to immediately Oba Adetunji, who spoke through or being operated by the Oyo Sate The family members, who action against the governor of Oyo of the arrested persons. and unconditionally release the his Media Aide, Adeola Oloko, Government be attached however later moved to the Lagos/Ibadan State, the state Attorney General and The DSS, which confirmed the arrested persons. assured them that the demands named or styled in satisfaction of expressway, also blocked the road Commissioner for Justice and the raid, disclosed that 13 people were The protesters, while addressing have been noted and would be the judgement debt owed to the arrested. for some minutes before moving the monarch, also demanded the sent to the appropriate quarters. state Commissioner for Lands and applicants. Housing-all defendants-before the The court also directed the defen- High Court of Oyo State, upon which dants to pay the sum of N1million as a consent judgement was entered the cost of the garnishee proceeding. Kwara APC Threatens Disciplinary Action against Information Minister in favour of the applicants. The court had initially granted Adedayo Akinwale in Abua The Oyo State High Court among a decree nisi asking the Oyo State in the state, Mr. Abdullahi Samari, issues. If we feel that what he said He said whatever decision other things ordered the defendants Government to show any cause disclosed this in an interview with publicly amounts to disrespect or that is taken at the ward, local to pay the sum of N60million to journalists yesterday in Abuja. is causing acrimony within the government and state level would why the order should not be made The Kwara State chapter of the All the applicants but the defendants Samari said: “Like I said earlier, party, honestly, we are going to then be forwarded to the national absolute. Progressives Congress (APC) has failed to comply with the said I still see the minister as a member make sure the rules of the party leadership for ratification. When the application to make stated that it may take disciplinary order of the court following which of our party, because he has not are applied against him and any Asked whether the minister the order absolute was filed and actions according to the party’s a garnishee proceeding was initiated formally told us that he is moving other person alike.” would be suspended from the argued by the defendants’ lawyer, constitution against the Minister against them. out of the party, which I doubt Samari explained that if sanctions party, Samari said: “Well, there it was opposed by the counsel to of Information and Culture, Alhaji The judgement was transmitted by he will do. He is a minister of would be applied, there are steps are guidelines like I told you. If the defendants, who is also the Lai Mohammed. the registrar of the Oyo State High the Federal Republic of Nigeria to be taken in accordance with the the offence is commensurate to Director of Civil Litigation and Mohammed recently claimed Court to the registrar of the Lagos with APC is as the ruling party. constitution of the party. suspending him, or any other, Advisory Services to the Oyo State that he sponsored the political State High Court; consequently, the “So I would not think he will The party chairman said the definitely the rule of the party Government, Mr. S.O. Adeoye. campaigns of the state Governor, judgement was registered by the want to move out. But from those step would start from the ward would be applied because no Justice Alakija rejected the defen- Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq, in 2019, Lagos High Court, which thereafter utterances he made, the party has level to the local government and one is above sanction. We want dants’ arguments and consequently which has been denied. granted the applicants’ application to a structure and guidelines over then to the state. to have sanity in the party.” made the order absolute. The APC Caretaker Chairman 44 THISDAY • THURSDAY, JULY 8, 2021 NEWSXTRA Insecurity Worsens in Enugu as Gunmen Kill SEDI DG Gideon Arinze in Enugu killed by suspected assassins about the back and when he came out to The driver of the vehicle reportedly Ndukwe, however, said that Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, two kilometres away from the scene investigate, they ordered him to lie sustained injuries and had been information concerning the incident said to have led to the death of a of yesterday’s incident. down on the floor, and shot him taken to an undisclosed hospital was still sketchy. man and his police orderly is still The state of insecurity in Enugu, the Okeke was shot dead by gunmen on the leg and stomach. for medical attention. According to the PPRO, the sketchy. Enugu State capital has worsened on Sunday night, while on his way Ndubuisi and his police orderly When contacted, the Police Public incident happened at about 1600hrs. “Meanwhile, a preliminary as the Director-General of Scientific to his house located at Brick Estate, were shot dead along the Centenary Relations Officer (PPRO), Enugu Ndukwe said: “Information sur- investigation has commenced. Equipment Development Institute by Ekweremadu Drive, Independence City Junction axis of the Enugu-Port State Command, Mr. Daniel Ndukwe rounding a shooting incident today, Further development will be duly (SEDI), Enugu, Prof. Samuel Ndubuisi Layout, Enugu. Harcourt Expressway. confirmed the incident. 07/07/2021 at about 1600hrs, along communicated, please,” Ndukwe said. was yesterday murdered in Enugu He was said to have been killed by unknown gunmen. in the presence of his seven-year-old The killing of SEDI DG is son who he had gone to pick from coming barely 48 hours after the a barbing salon. Chief Executive Officer of AutoEase According to report, the assailants Limited, Mr. Ifeanyi Okeke, was also were said to have hit his car from Court Orders Arrest of Defence Counsel in Unilorin Student Rape Case
Hammed Shittu in Ilorin ing trial for alleged rape and murder of one Olajide Blessing Omowumi, a student of Unilorin in Tanke area Kwara State High Court in Ilorin, of Ilorin early last month. the state capital, yesterday, ordered The other five, including Dauda the arrest of Mr. Sikiru Solagberu, Bashir Adebayo, were charged with counsel to one of the suspects receiving proceeds of armed robbery standing trial for alleged rape and items. murder of a 300-level student of The trio were said to have “con- the University of Ilorin. spired to rape one Omowumi also The court accused Solagberu of known as ‘Wumi (now deceased) exhibiting conduct unbecoming of armed with offensive weapons, a lawyer after last Monday’s court including a black wooden pistol, proceeding by making uncompli- towel, rope, leather belts, and thereby mentary remarks in some television committing an offence punishable stations and social media platforms. under Section 97 of the Penal Code The suspects, Abdulazeez Ismail, Law of Kwara State.” Ajala Moses Oluwatimileyin, However, at yesterday’s proceed- Oyeyemi Timileyin Omogbola- ing, the prosecution counsel, who is han, Abdulkarim Shuaib, Kareem also the state Attorney-General and Oshioyemi Rasheed, Abdullateef Commissioner of Justice, Salman IMPACTING KNOWLEDGE… Abdulrahman, Daud Bashir Ade- Jawondo, told the court that he L-R: Book reviewer, Dr. Monday Philips Ekpe; former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ibrahim Mantu; Social crusader, Hajia Hadiza bayo, and Akande Taiye Oladoja, received a letter from Solagberu were brought to court for alleged Mohammed; and former Military Administrator of Kogi State, Col. Paul Omeruo (rtd), during the launch of ‘The Singularity Clause,’ (counsel to seventh defendant) written by Dr. Elvis Enyioko in Abuja…recently rape, murder and armed robbery. indicating his withdrawal from The first three suspects are stand- the case. Ghanaian Speaker Urges Nigeria to Review List of Banned Items CSOs Sue Buhari over Onochie’s Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja while addressing members of the of the two countries. ing the concerns of the Nigerian Appointment as INEC Commissioner House of Representatives in Abuja. He added that the Ghana-Nigeria traders in Ghana. It has been a joint He said the visit of Ghanaian Friendship Act under his leadership effort between our two countries. Chuks Okocha in Abuja The Speaker of the Ghanian Par- lawmakers was sequel to the invita- of the Parliament of Ghana has ap- That is always the way to go if was made available to THISDAY, the liament, Hon. Alban Bagbin, has groups were seeking a declaratory tion by the leadership of the House pointed a seven-member committee we are interested in the peace and called on the Nigerian Government to host them and to continue with as Ghana’s delegation to the Joint development of our countries. I am A coalition of civil society organisa- order of the court to declare the to review the prohibition list banning tions (CSOs) has instituted a lawsuit nomination of “Lauretta Onochie, efforts to actualise the vision. Committee of Eminent Persons of confident that the intervention of the importation of specific commodi- The Ghanaian Speaker com- both legislatures. our two legislatures in this effort against President Muhammadu Buhari a well-known member of the All ties into the Nigerian market from over the nomination of Mrs. Lauretta Progressives Congress (APC) and mended the Nigerian Speaker, Hon. Bagbin noted that the committee will yield results. other countries, including Ghana. Femi Gbajabiamila, for his cutting- would interact with their Nigerian “To this end, it will be highly Onochie, as Commissioner of the current serving personal assistant He said the request underscored Independent National Electoral on social media to the 1st defendant edge parliamentary diplomacy and counterparts towards passing the appreciated if the government of by the resolution as captured in the visionary initiative of cementing the ‘Ghana-Nigeria Friendship Act’. Nigeria will review the prohibition Commission (INEC). (Buhari), as a national commissioner communique of May 31, 2021, fol- Onochie was nominated as an for the INEC”, as “wrongful, illegal, already great and cordial historic He said the Act would set up the list banning the importation of lowing the efforts by the leadership diplomatic relations between Ghana proposed ‘Ghana-Nigeria Business specific commodities into the Ni- INEC’s commissioner by President null and void and same nullified.” of Ghana and Nigeria parliaments Muhammadu Buhari since October Other reliefs sought included an and Nigeria. Council’, which is intended to gerian market from other countries, to pursue parliamentary diplomacy Bagbin said he was in Nigeria to provide the legal and institutional including Ghana.” 2020, but the Senate President, Mr. order “restraining the 3rd and 4th towards finding a lasting solution Ahmad Lawan, read the presidential defendants (the senate and Kabiru help bring finality to the impasse, framework to sustain the continued Bagbin stressed that the coming to the trade impasse between some while pledging his commitment and friendship and business interests into being of the African Continental letter of nomination only last month. Gaya) from referring, considering, Ghanaian and Nigerian traders in The CSOs, in the suit that was screening, deliberating or confirm- that of the Parliament of Ghana to of the people. Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) signals Ghana. contribute in every way possible to The Speaker stated further that: that Ghana is open for business and filed before the Chief Judge of the ing the nomination of Ms. Lauretta Bagbin made the request yesterday Federal High Court, Abuja, with Onochie.” According to an affidavit end the impasse between traders “We are making progress in resolv- mutually beneficial investments. suit FHC/ABJ/CS/604/2021, that was deposed by a board member were seeking the order of court to of the incorporated trustees of the determine whether the president YIAGA Africa Initiative, Mr. Ezenwa NBET Board to Hold Emergency Meeting over N7.68bn Budgetary Allocation “can nominate a card-carrying Nwagwu, in support of the originating member or members of his political summons, the plaintiffs submitted Iyobosa Uwugiaren in Abuja that NBET Plc was allocated N7.68 various states at the cost of N150 tune of N300 million. party or any other political party in that considering the close affinity billion in 2021 budget – for projects million; supply and installation of THISDAY gathered that even Nigeria, as a national commissioner with Buhari and his administra- outside its mandates. transformers in selected areas of though these projects were outside or resident electoral commissioner for tion, “Onochie cannot be a fair and The Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading It was alleged that there was Gombe North senatorial district at NBET’s mandate, the company was the independent national electoral unbiased umpire to serve in the INEC. (NBET) Plc board is expected to N630 million in its 2021 budget the cost of N100 million; N50 million alleged to have requested the Bureau commission”, contrary to Sections “That her criticism and constant meet this Friday (tomorrow) to to buy transformers; a budget for for provision of 500KVA/11 and of Public Procurement (BPP) to 14 (2a), 14 (3), 14 (3b), 14 (4) and denigration of political opponents discuss what an insider described as “electrifying communities across the 300KVA/11 at different locations approve the award of the contracts. Section 154 (1) of the Constitution cannot allow such opponents to be “strange” N7.68 billion budgetary country” — a project that ought in Dawakintofa/Rimin Gado/Tofa, However, one of the board of the Federal Republic of Nigeria at ease seeing a member of another allocations to the company in the to have been handled by the Kano State. members told THISDAY that some 1999 (as amended in 2011). political party presiding as a supposed 2021 budget. Rural Electrification Agency (REA) Other items NBET allegedly of them got to know about the issues In the originating summons that unbiased umpire.” An insider told THISDAY last charged with the responsibility of got approval for in 2021 budget through an online newspaper report, night that the emergency board electrification of rural and unserved to execute include, electrification and wondered how those items got meeting was called as a result communities. of Nasarawa Toto, North Central into the budget of a company with media report that alleged that In the same budget, the NBET zone at the cost of N30 million and only mandate of buying power from House Okays N74bn Budget for Police ‘’the company was being used as also allegedly proposed to provide electrification of Gudus, Nyalun, the generating companies (GenCos) a conduit to siphon public funds’’, 500KVA transformers for Uwan Kunkyam, Yuli and other selected and selling to the distribution Trust Fund especially when it was discovered and selected communities in communities in Plateau State at the companies (DisCos). Udora Orizu in Abuja challenges for the benefit of the nation and its citizenry. He explained that the sum of Envoy Hosts Nigerian Professionals in UK The House of Representatives has N988,279,006.05 is for Personnel Cost; approved the sum of N74,773,601,916 N10,027,610,310.25 for Overheads Says country’s problems surmountable billion as the 2021 budget for the Expenditure; N11,015,889,316.30 for Nigeria Police Trust Fund. Recurrent; and N63,757,712,600.00 that the meeting was part of efforts A press statement issued on between both countries. The approval followed the for Capital Expenditure. Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja to boost relations and create linkages the event, described the group as “Nigeria is the biggest economy in consideration and adoption of a Also, the House gave approval between Nigeria and its citizens in consisting of influential individuals Africa and we have to pull together to harmonised report by the Senate for the establishment of a Nigeria The Nigerian High Commissioner to the country. who have all been recognised by develop our country. Our challenges and House Committee on Police Police academy as a degree-awarding the United Kingdom (UK), Ambas- During the meeting, which held at the annual power list (Britain’s are surmountable, hence the need Affairs during plenary yesterday. institution to provide academic and sador Sarafa Isola, has hosted a Abuja House, the official residence of most influential people of African to come together and work for In his presentation, Chairman professional training. group of Nigerian professionals the Nigeria High Commissioner to the and Caribbean heritage). the socio-economic development of the House Committee on Police The approval followed the in the country, promising them UK, Isola told the group, the majority Isola encouraged them to of Nigeria. Affairs, Hon. Bello Usman Kumo consideration and adoption of that Nigeria’s problems are not of whom are British-Nigerians, to strengthen their cultural ties to “I hereby challenge the power list said the fund should expedite action a report presented by Hon. Mo- insurmountable. see themselves as persons who have Nigeria and partner the high members and other British Nigerians on the implementation of the 2021 hammed Monguno, Hon. Ossai While welcoming the group a duty to contribute to the growth commission in the UK to bridge to chart the way forward,” the budget for the enhancement of Nicholas Ossai, Chairman Navy called the British Power Listers, the of Nigeria. the economic and industrial gap ambassador stated. policing and tackling the security Hon. Gagdi Yusuf. Nigerian envoy to the UK, noted THISDAY • THURSDAY, JULY 8, 2021 45 NEWSXTRA Lagos to Tackle Gridlock with Traffic Management Solution
Segun James issues surrounding operations of law the state. Lagos Traffic Management Authority, with the use of the TMS as it would operatives would also compliment enforcement personnel as well as The TMS is a technologically-driven (LASTMA), and the Vehicle Inspec- expose in detail the violations with the new device. putting alleged traffic violations to rest. device to reduce human interface, tion Service (VIS) in their renewed the provision of video and picture Accordingly, he said: “The TMS is Determined to ease the perennial traffic Oladeinde, while speaking on eliminate traffic congestions on the operations, is linked to the control evidence to aid the resolution process a traffic law compliance initiative that gridlock that has made movement a the introduction of the device at roads and manage violations of room where every activity would be and give specific financial penalties allows the real-time capture of picture nightmare to motorists in Lagos State, a joint press conference with the traffic laws. monitored and captured. within the ambit of the law. and video evidence of road traffic and the state government has introduced Commissioner for Information and The commissioner said the device, Oladeinde said residents would He added that the recently launched vehicle compliance violations as they the Traffic Management Solution Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, and the which would be used by both the experience transparency at its peak body camera for law enforcement occur with the use of handheld devices. (TMS), the state Commissioner for Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Dr. Frederick Oladeinde, Transportation, Toyin Fayinka, pointed has disclosed. out that the hallmark of the new device According to him, the solution is transparency, which would further will help to address the controversial ensure seamless traffic congestion in Ganduje Urges Media to Promote National Integration, Unity among Nigerians Ibrahim Shuaibu in Kano “Our diversity should be regarded as an opportunity to make us more Kano State Governor, Mr. Abdullahi united and stronger.” The governor Umar Ganduje, yesterday urged said journalists needed to be sup- the Nigerian media to continue to ported to promote the much needed promote national integration and unity and national integration. unity among Nigerians. Ganduje further assured them that Ganduje made the appeal at the the government would continue to Kano State Government House support journalists to carry out their shortly after presenting keys of constitutional responsibility. vehicles, which the state government He extoled journalists in the state donated to the Nigeria Union of as intelligent, describing them as Journalists (NUJ), state Council and committed professionals to the the Correspondents’ Chapel. development of the country. The governor also donated another The governor stated that he vehicle to the association of blind observed the level of concern and people. commitment displayed by the According to him, “Now that we journalists in the last parley he had are at crossroads in Nigeria, unity with them a few weeks ago “where is so important, and the journalists they displayed their commitment to GIVING BACK TO SOCIETY… are the ones to promote it. issues of importance to the state.” L-R: Senior Special Assistant on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to the Kwara State governor, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim; Founder of She-4-She Foundation, Mrs. Oyanbo Peace Owei; Founder of DA Garden of Love Foundation, Mrs. Dorcas Owei; during the handover Fayemi Urges Successful Ekiti of food items to a beneficiary of the Foundation, Mrs. Halima Shuaibu, at the 7 Items for Item 7 Outreach in Gishiri, Abuja…weekend Entrepreneurs to Invest at Home Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti conducive accommodation for Ugwuanyi, PDP BoT Members in Closed-door Meeting students of the university. Fayemi said: “I am glad that I am Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu tor Ngiji Ngele and Prof. Adewale The meeting was focused on all kinds of people. I have gone to The Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode here, particularly that our brother State yesterday held a closed-door Oladipo. fostering peace and national unity Abia State and spoke to our people. Fayemi, has urged successful Ekiti did not choose to build this in Lagos meeting with members of the Board Briefing journalists after the among the northerners and their I have gone to Owerri, I spoke to entrepreneurs to join forces with his where he resides. He would have of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples closed-door meeting, Wabara, who host communities. our people. Anywhere I go, I brief administration in transforming the probably made more money, if this is Democratic Party (PDP), led by the spoke on behalf of the BoT Chairman, The BoT Chairman, who described our people and they are intact. socio economic lives of the people sited along Akoka, UNILAG student Chairman, Senator Walid Jubrin, at Jubrin said that the deliberation was Ugwuanyi as a “frank, sincere and “That is why they told me that by investing the state. area, he would have made more the Government House, Enugu. “very successful”. simple man,” commended the they are going to be with you Fayemi stated yesterday dur- money but he chose to come here The meeting, which lasted for He disclosed that they “discussed governor for promoting peace, (Ugwuanyi). ing the commissioning of a new to also establish his own presence four hours was also attended by national issues and the way forward national integration and unity in “I told them that you (Ugwuanyi) ultra-modern Victoria Manhattan back home. notable members of the party’s BoT, for the peace and unity of the Enugu State and beyond. are a very simple man; you are hostel that was built by an indigene “If all of us who are successful such as the former President of the country”. Jubrin urged northerners in Enugu very frank and sincere”, the BOT of Oye Ekiti, Mr. Goke Egunjobi, outside Ekiti, put back into the Senate, Senator Adolphus Wabara; Shortly after the meeting, State, to continue to cooperate with chairman said. for students of Federal University, community, because government former Governor of old Enugu State, Jubrin, who is the Sarkin Fulani the governor and live in peace and In their separate responses, leaders Oye Ekiti. cannot do it alone, we would have Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo; Senator of Nasarawa, met with leaders of harmony with the indigenes of the of the northern community in Enugu He commended Egunjobi for totally transformed our state even Stella Omu; Chief Rex Onyeabo; the northern community in Enugu state, stressing that the unity of State told the PDP BOT chairman situating the edifice in Ekiti and beyond the level it is now. Hon. Garba Shehu; Mrs. Laurentia State, led by His Royal Highness, Nigeria is paramount to its progress that Ugwuanyi has continued to said that it would complement “That is what this sort of institu- Mallam and Ambassador Justina Sarkin Abubakar Yusuf Sambo, at and corporate existence. foster peace and national unity in government’s effort in tackling tion does for the development of Eze. the Government House, Enugu, in “I am the Sarkin Fulani in the state through his uncommon infrastructural challenges in the area. the community. That is why every Others were: Ambassador Fidelia company of other BoT members Nasarawa State. I am their leader leadership qualities, stressing that The governor said that the build- Ekiti community wants an establish- Njeze; Hajia Hassana Dikko; Sena- and Ugwuanyi. in the real tradition. I am controlling the governor has been good to them. ing, which is equipped with state of ment of government because they the art facilities, would contribute know the multiplier effect of such in no small measure to providing establishment. Declare Emergency on Health Sector Manpower Shortage, Stakeholders Tell FG Onyebuchi Ezigboin Abuja These facts were revealed Chidebe said: “It is estimated that mass migration of healthcare workers Ekiti APC is an Indivisible Family, yesterday by the healthcare profes- Nigeria will approximately need to foreign countries in recent years sionals during a press conference 149,852 doctors and 471,353 nurses has only worsened the inequitable Says Governorship Aspirant The federal government has been that was organised by the Project by 2030, but only 99,120 doctors distribution of healthcare workers,” urged to declare state of emergency Pink Blue with support from the and 333,494 nurses will be available he said. Vanessa Obioha According to him, “The APC is on the shortage of workforce in ACT Foundation in Abuja. based on the growth rate”. He noted that the migration of an indivisible family. But you know healthcare sector in Nigeria. Speaking on the state of healthcare He said that based on the WHO’s Nigerian healthcare workers abroad A chieftain of the All Progressives that politics is about interests, and A current statistics from the World and oncology workforce develop- data, Nigeria would have a shortage is having adverse impact on the Congress (APC), Mr. Kayode every politician trying to vie for an Health Organisation (WHO), showed ment in Nigeria, Runcie Chidebe said of 50,120 doctors and 137,859 nurses country, adding that at present, 9 out Olubunmi Ojo, has dismissed the office will create an advantage to a low ratio of doctor – patient that the current ratio of physicians to by 2030 translating to 33.45 percent of every 10 doctors are desperately perceived crisis rocking the party get the electorate to get the position. relationship across the country. a patient is four per 10,000 patients and 29.25 percent gap in the supply seeking for ways to go abroad. in Ekiti State, stating that the party It always happens in politics but It also showed that there are and 16 nurses per 10,000 patients, of doctors and nurses respectively. He explained that the federal in the state is an indivisible family. at the end of the day, everybody less than 100 oncologists for over which were less than the WHO’s “The stark reality of this report government loses at least N3.8 Ojo, who is also vying for the will come together.” 100,000 cancer patients in Nigeria recommendations of one doctor to stares us in the face and has become million for subsidising the training governorship position in the state Describing himself as a peaceful and many of the available healthcare 600 patients and the critical threshold a legitimate cause for concern. At- of physicians who would eventually for the second time, said the party’s person, Ojo said he can easily access workforce lacked appropriate train- of 23 doctors, nurses and Midwives tracting and retaining healthcare leave the country to high income main focus is to win the next elec- members and encourage them to ing to provide optimal care. per 10,000 patients. workers is a greater concern. The countries abroad. tion, and as such, the only solution shove their individual differences to the perceived fragmentation in the aside and unite for the peace of party is to bring everyone together. the party. Mining Cadastre Generated N11.573bn in Six Years, Says DG
Foundation Flags off Malnutrition Kasim Sumaina in Abuja a media round table chat with breakdown of revenue generated able to rake in N2.016 billion. selected journalists in his office. within the period of six years by On mineral titles, Nkom observed Intervention Programme in Lagos Nkom noted that when it comes the office, stressed that the sum of that: “Presently, 6,588 are active, The Oladele Fajemirokun Foun- Lawumi Fajemirokun, who was The Mining Cadastre Office (MCO) to revenue generated, “in 2019, N1.15 billion was generated in 2016, if I give you an overview of the dation, a community-focused represented by the Programme yesterday hinted that it has so far N2.580 billion was generated for and that it rose to N2.13 billion in entire statistics from inception, I non-governmental organisation, Manager, Mr. Kenechukwu Egbue, generated the sum of N11.573 billion the federation account, and for 2017, but drop sharply to the sum think it will guide us by giving us in collaboration with AIICO at the flagging-off ceremony in in six years. 2020, which was the period of the of N1.55 billion in 2018. a picture of what we are talking Insurance has flagged off the Lekki, Lagos, the SMALINT This is even as it added that it has pandemic, we surprised everyone According to him, in 2019, the about because statistically, over ‘Sustainable Malnutrition Interven- programme seeks to improve the also generated the sum of N2.016 by generating N2.303 billion, which office was able to raise N2.58 bil- 34,000 applications have been tion programme (SMALINT)’ to nutritional profile of children from billion in the first half of 2021. was the second highest we have lion, and despite the COVID-19 received from inception.” fight malnutrition in children in six months to five years through the The Director-General, Nigeria had despite the lockdown, and in pandemic, its revenue generation He added that 15,483 applications Lagos State. provision of protein-rich foods, food Mining Cadastre Office (MCO), the first half of this year 2021, we stood at N2.303 billion. were rejected, 4,997 were revoked According to the Executive demonstration classes, sensitisation Simon Obadiah Nkom, made have generated N2.016.” He, however, said so far, within and 6,588 active titles are presently Director of the Foundation, Mrs. and community dialogue sessions. the disclosure yesterday during The MCO boss, while given the January to May 2021, it has been in existence. 46 THISDAY ˾ ˜ ˜ͺͺ Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email [email protected] 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY EURO 2020...EURO 2020...EURO 2020...
country, like others, has been through and to continue that It’s England, Italy Final as Kane happiness and the journey for another few days - we're are so happy.” Forward Raheem Sterling Snatch Winner against Denmark also praised England's re- sponse after they conceded England's 55-year wait to nerve-shredding tension then England side has done since came from behind to beat Wembley has not experienced their ęrst goal in the tourna- reach a major ęnal is over at unconęned joy at Wembley. the 1966 World Cup ęnal Denmark after extra time. beoreǰ nland baĴled their ment. last after 2-1 victory against Gareth Southgate's side win against West Germany In front of 66,000 fans and way out of adversity to secure "It was a top performance. Denmark in the Euro 2020 were on a mission to travel and they ęnally achieved the in a frenzied, thunderous a meeting with Italy in the We had to dig in deep," said last four, on a night of one step further than any long-cherished goal as they atmosphere this newer uro ŘŖŘŖ ęnal at the same Sterling, who won the penalty venue on Sunday. which Kane converted at the ow ngland had to ęght second aĴempt. for victory against this steely "It was the ęrst time we Denmark with an inspired conceded (in the tournament) keeper in Kasper Schmeichel, but we responded well and especially after conceding showed good spirit. We knew their ęrst goal of the tourna- it would be diĜcult. ment to Mikkel Damsgaard's "We stayed patient and stunning free-kick after 30 we knew with the legs and minutes. aggressiveness we have in the England, crucially, replied team we'd be okay. It's another quickly as Denmark captain step in the right direction. Simon Kjaer turned in Bukayo "We have to focus on the Saka's threatening cross six weekend now. We know minutes before the break. what football means to this Schmeichel was Denmark's country. Now we have Italy. hero as England sought the We will celebrate a liĴle bit winner, saving brilliantly from then focus on Italy." Harry Maguire and Harry Skipper Kane added: "We Kane as the game went into dug deep and we got there extra time and the prospect when it maĴered. We reacted of penalties loomed large. really well and we're in a ęnal The moment the nation has at home. What a feeling. waited for so long eěectively "We know it's going to be a arrived with Wembley's giant very tough game against Italy. screens showing 103 minutes We've had a great tournament and captain Kane standing so far. One more game to go over a penalty after Raheem at home and we can't wait." Sterling had been fouled by Joakim Maehle. EURO 2020 In keeping with England's long and tortuous history, it England 2-1 Denmark was not straightforward as the normally ice-cool Kane saw COPA AMERICA an awful penalty saved by Argentina 4-3 Colombia Schmeichel - but the rebound fell at his feet for him to score. England’s players celebrating Harry Kane’s winning goal in the 2-1 defeat of Denmark...last night Wembley went wild with AITEO CUP deafening noise and wild Smart City 2- 4 Kano Pillars celebrations as ęnally, after Gateway Utd 1 - 0 Akwa Utd all the years of hurt, England Katsina Utd 0 - 0 El-kanemi Buhari to Hand over Team Nigeria have the golden opportunity Warr. to ęnally claim a major crown (5-3 on penalties) on Sunday. to NOC on Monday in Abuja Speaking after leading the MaiUnguwa 0 - 2 N. Tornadoes Olawale Ajimotokan Sunday Dare, “we are keeping symbolic event meant to of- the departure of the first batch Three ions to their ęrst ęnal Sunshine Stars 1 - 1 Kogi Utd ÓØÌßÔË to the tradition of unveiling the ficially sent forth the team to of the country’s contingent to since 1966, England manager (6-5 on penalties) team to the President who will the Games. Japan from Abuja. Gareth Southgate says he is Abia Warr 5 - 0 Zamfara Utd President Muhammadu Buhari in turn hand them over to the “This should also inspire the Although the Games are not "so pleased for our country" is expected to play host to Team Nigerian Olympics Committee. athletes and to reinforce the due to kick off until July 23, after they booked their place Yobe Desert 0 - 1 Lobi Stars Nigeria at the Presidential Villa Dare also confirmed that the fact that the Federal Govern- the first batch of Team Nigeria in the Euro Ř0Ř0 ęnal - a ęrst Ekiti Utd 0 - 0 Heartland FC on Monday where he would President was going to unveil ment and the entire country athletes left the Federal Capital in a men's major tournament ( 4-5 on penalties) hand the Tokyo 2020 Olympics- the official wear / equipment are behind them,” observed City for the Far East nation for 55 years. Rivers Utd 2- 1 Sokoto Utd bound athletes to the Nigeria of the team at the ceremony. the minister yesterday. to acclimatize ahead of the "The atmosphere... I don't Olympic Committee (NOC) in “The unveiling of the official Earlier on Monday, Nigeria’s Games. think I've heard the new Rangers Int'l 0 - 1 Bayelsa Utd line with age long tradition. wear / equipment of the team preparations for podium According to the Director, Wembley like that," Southgate Green Berets 5 - 4 Warri Wolves According to the Minister of will be done by Mr. President outing at the Tokyo 2020 Federation of Elites Athletes of told BBC Sport. (on penalties) Youth and Sports Development, at the ceremony. This is a very Olympic Games began with the Federal Ministry of Youth "We know what our and Sports Development , Dr Simon Ebhojiaye, members of the canoeing team, Ayomide Runsewe’s Book on Golf in Bello and her coach, Ebenezer Eagles Blame Lack of Ukwunna, Esther Toko and her Nigeria for Launch October 1 coach, Regina Enofe alongside Faith in Home-based The Patron of Nigeria’s the game to Nigerians. millions of Nigerians who Secretary General of the Row- most exotic golf club, The Clearly motivated by his play the game and prominent ing and Canoeing Federation, Players for Loss to Mexico Golf Garden Waterfront experience in several trips Nigerians like Oba Ewuare Olubunmi Oluode, departed A member of the senior national giving them a chance to spring (GGWF) in Wuse, Abuja, to world’s ‘golf shrines’ like 11 of Benin and Plateau State for Tokyo through the Nnamdi team of Nigeria who was part surprise." Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, the Ancient and Modern St. Governor, Simon Lalong Azikiwe International Airport of the team that suěered " We listened to several radio in Abuja by Ethiopian Airline. a humiliating 0-4 defeat to stations while in camp in Abuja has broken new grounds with Andrews, the world’s golf who are already adorning Mexico in Sunday’s friendly and all they were saying was the release of a book on the headquarters and the Profes- the aĴires. Also in the first batch of game insisted that their case the amount of goals we will history of golf in Nigeria. sional Golf Association (PGA) “We have a long and rich Team Nigeria team for the wasn’t helped by pre-match concede. No one gave us a The 210-page book which is of America, Runsewe indeed history of golęng in Nigeria”, Games was Mary Onyali, comments by Nigerians. chance and it aěected the expected to be released to the painted clear pictures of how Runsewe, who is presently former African record holder in Speaking to OwnGoalNigeria. mentality of the team,” he said. Nigerian public on October the game of golf evolved in the Director General of the the sprint and twice Olympic com upon arrival in Nigeria “In our hearts we were 1, the nation’s Independence Nigeria and those individuals National Council of Arts medalist who is Special Ad- earlier yesterday from Los defeated even before a ball was day, dwelled extensively on who made selĚess sacrięce and Culture said. “I hold viser to the Minister of Sport. Angeles, USA, the player kicked. The pre-match criticism the nation’s golf sojourn for to ensure golf was forced this belief that if we cannot Same Monday, an advance who spoke on the condition of where we were called no match over 150 years, especially from from the tight grips of the write our own golf history, team of the Federal Ministry anonymity blamed the Nigerian for the Mexicans destroyed our years the white merchants white seĴlers and passed on nobody will do it for us. of Youth and Sports Devel- populace for not having trust morale and the result is the who were dealing in rubber to all Nigerians who wanted This is why I embarked opment departed for Tokyo in them ahead of the game. 0-4 bashing. We have however started the game in Sapele, to play it. on this project and I must via the Murtala Mohammed He said right from when they learnt a valuable lesson from Delta State, through the years The book equally dwelled tell everyone it was such International Airport in Lagos were in camp in Abuja all what the trashing”, concludes the the white tin miners in Jos, on reasons cultural golf at- a thrilling experience,” he to prepare ground to receive was said about the game was player who is a key element the Nigerian contingent. centered on how many goals for his team in the Nigerian Plateau State, further exposed tires are being introduced to concluded. they will concede with no one topĚight league. THISDAY ˾ ˜ ˜ͺͺ 47 THURSDAYSPORTS Emiliano Martinez was the hero for Argentina as he saved three times in a penalty shoot-out to take his team into a Copa America ęnal match-up Argentina Set up Brazil with Brazil after early hours of Wednesday’s second semi-ęnal against Colombia ęnished 1-1 at regulation time. Copa America Final Clash Martinez, who tried to distract Colombia’s players scored for Argentina as they Martinez. “They took us to and 10 yellow cards. Argentina the lead. counter-aĴack. in the shoot-out with a bar- booked a spot against the penalties and that’s a question Argentina are seeking to win Colombia found their Argentina are now unbeaten rage of trash talk, saved from host nation in early hours of luck, today it was my turn their ęrst major international feet soon after and hit the in 19 games, with their last Davinson Sanchez, Yerry Mina of Sunday’s ęnal at Rio de for glory.” title since lifting the Copa woodwork twice in a minute loss coming to Brazil in the and Edwin Cardona. Janeiro’s Maracana stadium. Both sides had chances to America in 1993 and once towards the end of the ęrst semi-ęnal of the 2019 Copa Lionel Messi, Leandro “I’m speechless,” said win in an intense, end-to-end again Lionel Messi was the half when Wilmar Barrio’s America. They were also the Paredes and Lautaro Martinez Argentinian goalkeeper match punctuated by 46 fouls star man, notching up his ęfth deĚected shot struck the post last team to beat Brazil, in assist of the tournament to and then Mina watched his November 2019 when Messi add to his four goals. header hit the bar from the got the only goal of the game Taking a superb pass from resulting corner. in a friendly in Saudi Arabia. ...Jesus to Miss Final in at Maracana Giovani Lo Celso after six Their equaliser came on Since then Brazil who beat Brazil forward Gabriel Peru on Monday but is now match-winner against Peru, minutes, Messi rolled the the hour mark when Luis Peru 1-0 on Monday to reach Jesus will miss the Copa set to also miss the ęnal where Everton took Jesus's ball to Lautaro Martinez to Diaz ęnished from a tight the ęnal, have won 12 and America ęnal after he was against either Argentina place. ęre home a low shot and give angle to complete a surprise drawn one. handed a two-game ban on at Rio de Janeiro's iconic Tuesday by South American Maracana stadium. football's governing body He was also ęned Ǟ5,000, CONMEBOL. CONMEBOL announced The Manchester City's yesterday. Jesus was dismissed for a Jesus, 24, was shown a red foul on Eugenio Mena in card on 48 minutes, just two Brazil's 1-0 quarter-ęnal win minutes after Lucas Paqueta over Chile on Friday. gave the Selecao the lead He sat out the tournament against Chile. hosts' 1-0 semi-ęnal win over Paqueta was also the Barca Apologise over Griezmann, Dembele Viral Video Barcelona have apologised staying," the statement read. for the recent video of Ous- "This aĴitude in no way mane Dembele and Antoine coincides with the values that Griezmann which appeared FC Barcelona represents and to show the pair mocking defends. Asian hotel staě. "The values of the club The clip was recorded back and its sponsors should be in 2019 prior to the club's pre- something that FC Barcelona season tour of Japan, though protects, and this belief is only recently surfaced on the present at all levels of the club's YouTube channel and organisation, from the board then social media. of directors and executives The pair could be seen to the players in the club’s laughing at a group of Asian various sporting teams. Argentina players celebrating after defeating Colombia in shootout...yesterday hotel staě who were appear- "The club is commiĴed to ing to try to ęx a television, improving its education on men's major. but both players have since questions of race, discrimi- WIMBLEDON 2021: After winning the Australian apologised and claimed there nation and diversity. At FC Open and French Open titles were no racial connotations Barcelona there is no place Federer Knocked out in Straight already this year, another behind their jokes. for racism or discrimination. triumph at the All England Barcelona have now had "FC Barcelona would like Club will mean he equals the their say on the incident, to apologise publicly to all ǰȱȱȱȱȂę tally jointly held by Roger taking to their oĜcial web- the club’s fans and partners Roger Federer's bid for a ninth "Playing here and the special the Wimbledon semi-ęnals with Federer and Rafael Nadal. site to release a statement who feel unhappy about this Wimbledon title lay in taĴers things [Federer] has done here, a focused display yesterday. Nadal did not play at SW19 apologising to anyone who event from the summer of after he was stunned in straight it's a dream come true." Djokovic, 34, was far from this year. may have been oěended 2019, a time when the club’s sets by Hubert Hurkacz in the Hurkacz, who was six when his best, but still won 6-3 6-4 Five-time champion Djokovic by the video, adding that responsibilities fell to a board quarter-ęnals. Federer won his ęrst title at 6-4 against 29-year-old Fucsov- had dropped just one set on his they reserve the right to directors and executive team The Swiss lost 6-3 7-6 (7-4) SW19, is the ęrst player to win ics, who was contesting his way to the Wimbledon quarter- take internal action against previous to the current. 6-0 to the 14th seeded Pole, a set to love against the Swiss ęrst Grand Slam quarter-ęnal. ęnals and never looked like Dembele and Griezmann. "The board of directors that who reached his ęrst Grand since Rafael Nadal in the 2008 The Serb will play 10th seed losing another against world "FC Barcelona deeply regret today manage the club are Slam semi-ęnal. French Open ęnal. Denis Shapovalov on Friday number 48 Fucsovics. the displeasure amongst commiĴed to making sure It is the ęrst time 20-time Federer, at 39 years and after the Canadian beat Russian That was despite the Serb Japanese and Asian fans and episodes of this nature do major champion Federer has 337 days, had been bidding 25th seed Karen Khachanov. playing less cleanly and partners of our club caused by not repeat themselves. lost a set to love at the All to become the oldest man to Djokovic is now two wins conędently than in any of a video that appeared a few "The players have already England Club. reach the Wimbledon semi- from a record-equalling 20th his previous four wins. days ago on social media in shown their regret and have Hurkacz will play MaĴeo ęnals in the Open era. which two ęrst team players apologised to Japanese fans BerreĴini or Felix Auger-Ali- But defeat marked his ęrst (Ousmane Dembele and An- and partners, something that assime for a place in Sunday's straight-set loss at Wimbledon toine Griezmann) displayed a the club values. Nevertheless, ęnal. in 19 years. lack of respect in their aĴitude FC Barcelona reserve the right "It's super special for me," Meanwhile, defending towards several employees in to take the internal measures said Hurkacz, only the second champion Novak Djokovic had the hotel in which they were that it considers appropriate." Polish man to reach the semi- too much quality for Hungary's ęnals at a Grand Slam. Marton Fucsovics as he reached Spain's Luis Enrique Salutes Players after Loss to Italy Spain coach Luis Enrique has But after neither side could believed in it and I can only minutes of normal time at said he had no complaints over find a winner following extra congratulate them, I have no Wembley - only France's Samuel his side's Euro 2020 semi-final time, Morata's miss in the complaints. Umtiti has ever completed more exit after a penalty shootout de- shootout proved crucial, as "We have shown that we are with 100% passing accuracy feat to Italy on Tuesday, insisting Jorginho's spot kick sealed a a team. Now it is important to in a European Championship he will only be congratulating place in the final for the Azzurri. recover and then we will meet match since 1980. his players for their efforts in "It is not a sad night for me, again ahead of the World Cup "No 18-year-old has done the tournament. not at all," Luis Enrique told qualification." what he has," Luis Enrique Alvaro Morata's well-taken a news conference. "Of course The former Barcelona coach added. "His performances, finish dragged Spain back into there is some disappointment singled out 18-year-old Barca his interpretation of the role, the game after Federico Chiesa but that is elite football. You midfielder Pedri for special how he finds free space, his had brilliantly fired Italy into have to learn to win and lose. praise. quality, his character... I have the lead in the second half at "We talked a lot about how Spain's Pedri completed never seen anyone do what he Wembley. we wanted to play, the players all 56 of his passes in the 90 does, it is devoid of all logic." Roger Federer...knocked out of Wimbledon 2021 T RU N Thursday July 8, 2021TH & REASO Price: N250 MISSILE Babagana Zulum to Southern Governors Six or seven years ago, APC had zoned the presidency to northern Nigeria based on the agreement that in the year 2023, the presidency should go to the south. But again, this is politics. We are supposed to meet and discuss this issue among ourselves, among the political class. This statement that people are saying that the president must go to the south, I want them to remove the word must —Borno State Governor affirming support for power shift to the south but not under duress OLUSEGUNADENIYI THE VERDICT [email protected] One Nation, Multiple Destinies…1 couldn’t find the story. This means it may have I will recommend a twitter Thread that sums FLASHBACK: 5th been fabricated to give the APC presidential up what the issues are: https://twitter.com/ candidate a bad name among Igbo people. Yet femolevsky/status/1412331220730630145. February, 2015: on Monday, where Iwuanyanwu stopped, others The governors also expressed their “commitment took over with Senator Anyanwu saying rather to the politics of equity, fairness and unanimously vehemently that in this election, as far as Igbo agrees that the presidency of Nigeria be rotated ithin the last one week, I people are concerned, “there is no alternative to between Southern and Northern Nigeria and have been to Ngor Okpala Jonathan.” When it was her turn, Mrs Chikwe resolved that the next president of Nigeria should Local Government Area of asked the question that became her singsong emerge from the Southern Region.” This means Imo State twice. Last Friday, throughout the day: “What should happen to that southern governors can also play the game, when I left Yenogoa, Bayelsa any Igbo man who votes for another candidate as we saw in the prelude to the 2015 general WState, I drove straight to Amafor-Imerienwe to other than President Jonathan?” The crowd election when Northern governors, including spend a few moments with my friend, Dr. Sam responded: “Holy Ghost fire!” those in the then ruling PDP, were vehement Amadi, chair of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Overall, it is not that the Igbos I met at the that power had to shift from South to North. Commission (NERC) who was burying his late campaign train in Imo State hate Buhari; it is that Six years later, has the material condition of mother that day. Then on Sunday evening, I was they don’t believe he has the predisposition to people in the North been made better because back to Owerri to join the Imo State Peoples deal fairly with them if he becomes the president ‘their son’ is in power? I leave readers to answer Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial campaign of Nigeria. I can understand their fears. Igbos that question. train of Hon Emeka Ihedioha that was to hit his are carrying many scars and a deep memory To “consolidate our democracy and strengthen Aboh-Mbaise-Ngor Okpala Federal Constituency from Nigeria’s struggles to create an equitable the electoral process”, the southern governors also the next day. country. The Igbos have traversed our diverse reject the removal of the Electronic transmission Now, I need to state quickly that I am neither country and are to be found settled all over of the election result from the electoral act. I a PDP member nor member of any other party. Nigeria. Most of them, however, seem to doubt wonder why the National Assembly, including I simply went to identify with the aspiration of if the APC presidential candidate can guarantee Sanwo Olu...Lagos State Governor lawmakers from the 17 southern states (except my friend. With the exception of the 2011 general a modern democratic state that protects the they were all drinking kaikai while their northern election when I was not in the country, I have equality of citizens. Only Buhari and the APC supporters are singing from the same hymn counterparts were supposedly putting this since 2003—when he made his first foray into can determine whether they have done enough book. That exactly is where President Buhari clause), would endorse such proposition. I the House of Representatives—always spent to allay such fears. is today, given the communique released by understand from some Independent National at least a day on Ihedioha’s campaign train as However, with a brutal insurgency in the Southern Governors Forum after their meeting Electoral Commission (INEC) officials that the a show of solidarity. On Monday, I was part North-east, chronic inter-communal strife in the in Lagos on Monday. Z-pad technology was used to upload results to of the team that included Chief Emmanuel North-central; and militancy in the South-south, it Let’s begin with some political arithmetic. the commission’s view portal, real time, from Iwuanyanwu, former Governor Achike Udenwa, is not surprising that several parts of our country Of the 17 Southern states, eight of them are all polling units, wards and local government Senator Chris Anyanwu, Dr. Kema Chikwe, are asking for assurances as to how to restore controlled by the ruling All Progressives Congress areas during the Edo State gubernatorial election Dr. Douglas Acholonu, Prof. Viola Onwuliri, their sense of belonging and co-ownership of (APC): Five in the Southwest (Lagos, Ogun, last year. That prevented a situation in which Nze Fidelis Ozichukwu, Prof. Jude Njoku, Project Nigeria. Should he win, Buhari will have Ondo, Ekiti and Osun), one in the Southsouth anybody could have tampered with the results and Major General Eugene Nwanguma (rtd), Air a huge task persuading the widest spectrum (Cross Rivers) and two in the Southeast (Imo aided the transparency of the process. National Commodore Luke Ochubor (rtd), Chief Austin of Nigerians to see him as someone who can and Ebonyi States). Two of these states (Cross Assembly members (from North and South) are Papa Nwokorie, Hon. Jones Onyesiri, Eng. Ebere protect the rights of all citizens wherever they River and Anambra) were not represented at the quite aware of this, their motive can only be Udeagu, ace footballer, Kanu Nwankwo and may live, whatever section of the country they Lagos meeting. One belongs to APC, the other to circumscribe the conduct of credible polls. several others. come from and regardless of the religion they to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). Since President Buhari will never be on the Throughout the day filled with pomp and profess. That way, he may eventually win over Despite the huge presence of APC governors, ballot again in Nigeria, this should not be his drama, full tradition was on display. Igbo rituals the Igbo people, majority of whom for now do the forum still came up with a statement that problem. including kolanut breaking added colour to the not trust him. could be seen as confrontational to the federal The governors also talked about the creation occasion at every stop from Ngor Okpala to government controlled by their own party. Before of state police on which there seems to be a Aboh-Mbaise. However, the major highlight of ======I make my point, it is important to examine a national consensus among them. Whatever the campaign for me was not the endorsement few issues in their resolutions. the resolution that “if for any reason security of Ihedioha by the various PDP bigwigs but he foregoing excerpts from my 5th Given how previous administrations have institutions need to undertake an operation rather the passion with which they campaigned February 2015 column, ‘Buhari, Ndigbo failed in their attempts to enact the Petroleum in any State, the Chief Security Officer of the for President Goodluck Jonathan. I have never and Yoruba Agenda’, at the time the Industry Bill (PIB), one would have thought the State must be duly informed” may mean, let’s seen such genuine support and affection for current president was aspiring for governors would first congratulate President leave that one. A timeline of 1st September, 2021 the president anywhere, not even among his power reveal quite clearly that the Buhari and the National Assembly before making is set for “the promulgation of the anti-open Ijaw kinsmen. Tmutual distrust between him and Igbo people whatever amendments they seek. Rather, what grazing law in all member States”. This is a they did was to rehash the populist lines from It all started at the Umuneke, headquarters did not start today. Nor has the passage of time direct response to President Buhari’s call for social media on what the bill means. Is the of Ngor Okpala where traditional rulers were over the past six years healed wounds. His a gazette that would reopen the old grazing proposed PIB perfect? Certainly not. Can the gathered to receive the team. Iwuanyanwu July 2015 Washington DC declaration, following routes for cattle. On this, we can also put the Niger Delta have a better deal than what was said that being a son of the area, support for his election (“I hope you have a copy of the governors’ reaction down to Isaac Newton’s proposed? Yes. Is the proposition of a “funding Ihedioha should be taken for granted: “the election results. The constituents which, for third law of motion: “For every action, there mechanism of thirty per cent (30%) of NNPC real case I want to make here today is for the example, gave me 97% [of the vote] cannot is an equal and opposite reaction.” man who is not here and I am talking about Limited’s profit oil and profit gas as in the in all honesty be treated on some issues with This series will continue, especially as we our beloved son, President Jonathan who is production sharing, profit sharing, and risk constituencies that gave me 5%”) which was in move towards the 2023 general election so I can contesting against Buhari. Just this morning, I service contracts to fund exploration of frontier response to a question on the Niger Delta has deal with the substantive issues that are tied was shown a story where Buhari was quoted basins” about favouring the North and is it been appropriated by the Southeast without any to our politics. But in all, what I see from the on BBC Hausa Service that we Igbo people hate too much? No, by my understanding. Many conscious attempt to change the narrative in the communique of the southern governors is that him because of Biafra and that given another way and manner opportunities are distributed. of the terms in the oil industry are technical they are buying into the local sentiment within chance, he will do what he did again. That is However, the real concern is that opposition so the question that ought to have been asked the environment in which they operate. And this a declaration of war on Igbo people. How can to the president is also growing gradually in is, 30 percent of what? And for what purpose? is where the problem lies for Aso Rock. For a we support such a man?” the Southwest where he secured the votes that Once those questions are answered—and the president in his seventh of eight years’ tenure, I have read different versions of the ‘BBC Hausa got him over the line in his fourth attempt. As southern governors ought to have sought Buhari should be concerned about his legacy. Service interview’ referred to by Iwuanyanwu I often argued, there is no worse place to be clarifications on them—all the brouhaha will on WhatsApp but when I did a Google search, I for a politician than when their opponents and disappear. For readers who are open-minded, NOTE: This piece is concluded on page 15
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