New Streaming Service, ARISEPLAY, Goes Live Worldwide Sunday Gets $100m seed funding for ARISE original productions Segun James will boast of a bold new the group signed by its Brand through venture capital firms, both sides of the Atlantic, all release of some of the world’s identity, showcasing the best in and Marketing Lead, Sakina adding that with its exclusive at the ease of their fingertips. biggest movies. Africa’s leading media and worldwide entertainment from Renneye, said last night. agreement with the likes of It promised never before “This distinctive streaming luxury brand, ARISE MEDIA Hollywood to Nollywood. The service, it said, SONY Pictures, FilmOne and seen exclusives, including service will be combined GROUP, will on Sunday “It will feature all of ARISE’s would ride on the back of other independent producers, an all-access pass to all the with linear channels in the launch a new streaming industry-leading original an ongoing $100million it will ensure its subscribers get behind-the-scene actions and service, ARISEPLAY, which productions,” a statement from seed funding being raised to see the best content from interviews in the run-up to the Continued on page 10

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Ganduje, Umahi, Masari, Others Take COVID-19 Vaccine... Page 42 FG: We Have Firepower to End Insurgency without Mercenaries Insists negotiating with bandits paints govt as weak Buhari reaffirms shoot-on-sight order at AK-47-wielding criminals 2,403 insurgents killed since 2015 Armed Forces working in synergy, says Irabor Deji Elumoye in and by President Muhammadu Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan Buhari. It also foreclosed The federal government negotiations with bandits yesterday ruled out hiring and terrorists, 2,403 of who mercenaries to fight the have been killed by security insurgency war, saying forces since 2015, contending the country has enough that doing so could suggest personnel and resources to weakness and incapacity on fight insecurity, especially with the reform of the armed forces Continued on page 10 Monarchs Make Case for Role in Constitution Seek task in recruitment into military, police, other security agencies Deji Elumoye and Udora accused the military regimes Orizu in Abuja of Gen. Aguiyi Ironsi (rtd), Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd) Traditional rulers yesterday and General Olusegun renewed their clamour for Obasanjo (rtd) of relegating relevance with a request that the traditional institution 1999 Constitution as amended to the background with no should be reviewed to include constitutional role. specific roles for them. Chairman of the council The monarchs, under the and the Sultan of Sokoto, CELEBRATING DEMUTUALISATION... auspices of the National Chairman, NGX Group Plc, Chief Abimbola Ogunbanjo (left), and former President, Nigerian Stock Exchange, Mr. Aigboje Aig- Traditional Council of , Continued on page 10 Imoukhuede, at the exchange, which was successfully demutualised on Wednesday

BoT Hands Secondus Lifeline, to Serve Out Tenure... Page 5 2 FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 • THISDAY 3 4 FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY,  ͹ͺ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY 5

Group News Editor Ejiofor Alike NEWS Email [email protected], 08066066268 BoT Hands Secondus Lifeline, to Serve Out Tenure Says PDP ready to take over power from APC Chuks Okocha in Abuja It said it is working with party. and implementation of well- Commenting on the zoning PDP at this point in time to other stakeholders to resolve “With a determination to do structured plans,” it said. of the presidency, a BoT declare its position on zoning. The Board of Trustees (BoT) disagreements among party all that is necessary to ensure It added: “Finally, the board member and former Deputy "You know very well that of the Peoples Democratic members as a way of ensuring that we fulfill the overwhelming is very appreciative of the Senate President, Senator APC has done five years now; Party (PDP) yesterday said peace and stability in the main desire of the vast majority of commitment of our governors Ibrahim Mantu, said: "Zoning politics as far as Nigeria is it would ensure that the opposition party. the people of Nigeria that to the party and the exemplary is in the PDP Constitution, it concerned is between APC National Chairman, Prince Uche According to the the PDP regains national roles they have all been is a party matter." and PDP. PDP has to be Secondus, and members of the communiqué that Wabara read power in 2023, the board is playing to keep the party at Another member and a very careful in dealing with National Working Committee to reporters, the BoT reviewed unequivocally committed the optimum operational level. former Minister of Foreign this issue; we will take it (NWC) serve out their tenure and discussed the situation of to ensuring that normalcy "The board will consult Affairs, Chief Tom Ikimi, step by step. I believe that which expires in December. the party nationwide, stating and peace prevail through with the governors’ forum on however, said it was too early your concerns will be taken It also said that the party that this was necessary due all the organs of the party necessary measures towards to discuss the matter. into consideration when the would do everything necessary to the heightened political to permit the development solidifying the party.” "It is still too early for the decision will be made," he said. to take over power from the All and economic tensions in the Progressives Congress (APC) in country. 2023, explaining that it is taking The purpose of the meeting, steps to resolve all disputes Wabara said, was to ensure the within the ranks of the PDP stability of all the organs of the and unite it for the attainment party and to place them on the of its objective. alert as the party prepares to There have been reported take over power once again. moves by some PDP governors The communiqué said the to remove the national chairman BoT recognised the ongoing as part of the permutations for work of the Reconciliation the bid for power in 2023. and Strategy Committee, led But the BoT said yesterday by a former Senate President, that it would ensure this does Senator Bukola Saraki. not happen. “The meeting was briefed on “The Board of Trustees the outcome of zonal congresses will ensure that a fluent and held over last weekend. Three uninterrupted operation of out of the six congresses have all the organs of the party, been successfully concluded. particularly the National “The Board of Trustees in Working Committee (NWC), playing its statutory role as remains in place leading up the conscience of the party to a successful convention in will work earnestly towards December 2021,” it said in a ensuring that the highest communiqué signed by its level of morality exists in all Secretary, Senator Adolphus its activities and that all the Wabara. members of our party live up It said it would ensure that to expectation,” it said. harmonious relations exist The communiqué added between the organs of the that the board is committed party, adding that a detailed to not allowing any strained meeting between the BoT and relationship between all VACCINATED AGAINST COVID-19... the NWC is planned to be held members, particularly at the Governor, Hon. Aminu Masari (left), and Chief Medical Officer, Government House, Dr. Nafiu Funtua, during the soon. top management level of the vaccination of the governor in Katsina…yesterday Govs: FG Can’t Force Federal Salary Structure on States PDP govs pledge cooperation in fight against insecurity Chuks Okocha in Abuja him in Abuja. responsible for this. The people Pro-Chancellor of that none of them will defect He said the governors also He described governors as you appoint as vice-chancellors University, Mallam Yusuf Ali to the APC. reviewed the situations in the State governors yesterday victims of federal government’s need to speak truth to power, (SAN), told Fayemi that it is The Chairman of the PDP party and resolved to ensure accused the federal government unitary approach to a federal they need to be able to bite no longer news that education Governors' Forum, Hon. peace at all levels of the party of negotiating minimum wage structure. the bullet, and not just be a in Nigeria is in shambles Aminu Tambuwal, who is also organs. with the Nigeria Labour Fayemi spoke against the yes person. due to paucity of finances, the governor, at "We have met with the Congress (NLC) and trying backdrop of protests by labour “We need to work together the unionism and students' a press conference in Abuja NWC and have commended to impose it on states. over a bill before the House to confront these issues, we are activities. after a meeting of the forum, the initiative of the NWC in They, however, warned that of Representatives seeking to running glorified secondary The team, which represents said: "As governors of the PDP, coming up with the Saraki- the federal government cannot decentralise minimum wage schools as universities by this all the 48 universities owned we have agreed and resolved led committee to reconcile impose its salary structure on negotiations. system. You have to help us in by states, pleaded with the to continue to work with the aggrieved members of the them given the differentials in The organised labour on insisting that the institutions governors to take over the federal government with the party across the country. their revenues. Wednesday had stormed the too do the right thing.” burden of payment of salaries sole aim of reestablishing "It is a very commendable Chairman of the Nigerian National Assembly and states' Fayemi also agreed with of state universities, reintroduce peace in troubled areas of initiative. We have received Governors’ Forum (NGF) Houses of Assembly to protest the team that politics should scholarships for needy students the federation. We must not interim report from that and Governor of , the bill, which if it becomes not be involved in the school and assist the committee to play politics with security and committee, they are doing very Dr. Kayode Fayemi, faulted law, will allow each state to system, even though he stated build a secretariat of to facilitate we must all work together to well and we are encouraging how the federal government is fix its minimum wage. that there are smart people in their activities. ensure that we bring back them to continue in that treating the sub-nationals under But in a subtle riposte politics in Nigeria. peace in our land. regard, and the governor’s a supposed federal system of to labour’s accusation that “You need people who PDP Governors Pledge "And on the general forum is going to back their government. governors, if allowed to fix understand the structure. economic well-being of the effort strongly so that we can He spoke just as governors minimum wage will pauperise However, we have a lot of Collaboration with FG country, we are appealing to possibly even bring back those elected on the platform of the workers, Fayemi said: “You smart people in politics too to Tackle Insecurity Mr. President to reconsider members of our party who opposition Peoples Democratic can’t impose a federal salary who can add value, who certain measures, and we are have left the party out of anger Party (PDP) committed structure on states because knows that it is not about Governors elected on the appealing to him to actually and certain situations. themselves to collaborate we do not all have the same winning souls for the party. platform of the opposition bring more succour and relief "As you can see, most if with the federal government economic or financial situations. You can draw up a framework Peoples Democratic Party to the people of Nigeria and not all of the governors of the to tackle the insecurity in the "I, for example, do not have and guide. We can have the (PDP) yesterday pledged to support state governments in PDP attended this meeting. country. the resources of State; same criteria and achieve team up with the federal the discharge of their mandate This is a very clear statement A statement by the NGF’s so, you won’t expect me to purpose,” he added. government to tackle insecurity by making available resources that no governor of PDP is Head of Media and Public earn the same salary as the He added that governments in the country. to the states, so that we can contemplating leaving the party Affairs, Mr. Abdulrazaque governor of Lagos. at the sub-national level They, however, cautioned execute our mandate and for any other party," he said. Barkindo, said Fayemi spoke “It’s true that no state has are worried by the unitary the federal government against ensure that we engender good The governors appealed yesterday when the Committee fulfilled payment of salaries approach to things in the playing politics with security. governance and good condition to the NWC to immediately of Pro-Chancellors of state- to states universities, but country. They also pledged to remain of living in our respective states kick-start the process for owned universities visited states are not always solely Earlier, the team, led by committed to the PDP, saying throughout the country." e-registration of members. 6 FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 • THISDAY 7 8 FRIDAY,  ͹ͺ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY NEWS OPEC Slashes Q2 Oil Demand Estimate by 690,000 bpd Says Nigeria produced additional 161,000bpd in February Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja voluntary social distancing saw the price of West Texas crude it will need to provide second half of 2021, boosting On Nigeria, the cartel stated and other pandemic-related Intermediate (WTI) spiralling this year by 250,000 barrels a projections for global oil that with rising oil prices, the The Organisation of Petroleum developments” continue to into the negative territory. day, compared to last month’s demand in the fourth quarter country is expected to record Exporting Countries (OPEC) weigh on economic activities." At its meeting last Thursday, report. by 970,000 barrels a day and modest growth. yesterday pruned the demand It, however, added that the coalition surprised traders It was understood that requirements for its crude in OPEC stated that Nigeria’s outlook for crude oil in the conditions should improve who had widely expected the group is pumping that period by 400,000 a day. real GDP expanded by 0.1 next two quarters, in keeping in the second half of 2020. OPEC+ to agree to revive considerably below level, as it “By the end of the first half, per cent y-o-y in the last with the group’s plans to keep The latest figures from about 1.5 million barrels a day attempts to deplete surplus oil economic activity is expected quarter of 2020, after a 3.6 a tight rein on the supply of the 13-member group are, and thereby propelled prices inventories that accumulated to accelerate as the impact per cent contraction in 3Q20, the commodity. however, consistent with to a 14-month high above $70 during the pandemic, with of the pandemic is expected adding that this marked The cartel cut its projection its last week’s decision in a barrel, raising questions over the de facto leader, Saudi to taper off. This momentum the first positive quarterly for the amount of crude its collaboration with its allies whether producers now risk Arabia, implementing extra will be supported by pent-up growth in 2020 amid the members will need to pump to refrain from restoring over-heating global markets. cutbacks to speed up the demand, especially in contact- gradual return of economic in the second quarter by any more of the production In the latest monthly report, market’s rebalancing. intensive service sectors such activity following the easing of 690,000 barrels a day, citing halted during the heat of the the cartel reduced its overall OPEC expects the demand as tourism and travel,” OPEC COVID-19-related restrictions ongoing lockdown measures coronavirus pandemic which forecasts for the volume of outlook to brighten in the said in the report. and oil price improvements. and other pandemic-related developments. OPEC, in the March edition of its Monthly Oil Market Report, projected that Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) would expand in the medium- term due to rising oil prices and the positive trajectory of the COVID-19 vaccine in the country. Data released by OPEC showed that Nigeria’s oil production increased by 161,000 barrels per day in February compared to the previous month. It stated that while in December last year, the country produced 1.375 million barrels, in January 2021, Nigeria drilled 1.328 million barrels of oil per day and produced 1.488 million barrels per day in February, quoting secondary sources. ROYAL FATHERS AT THE VILLA... On why demand was revised down, OPEC said: L-R: Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III; Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero; Emir of Kazaure, Dr. Najib Hussaini-Adamu; Ooni of Ife, Oba “Ongoing lockdown measures, Adeyeye Ogunwusi Ojaja II; and Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe, during their meeting with President in Abuja...yesterday godwin omoigui NDIC Mulls Increase in N2tn Depositors’ Insurance Fund FG promises to address concerns over amended BOFIA Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja Mr. Hassan Bello, said in his "There are a number of insurance fund. If the Act is should there be another crisis, 2020, and expressed her inaugural address yesterday challenges the corporation reviewed, we will find a way adding that there is the need willingness to resolve them. The Nigeria Deposit Insurance in Abuja that of recent, there is facing. I have taken note to ensure that we can actually to fast-track the growth of She pledged the ministry's Corporation (NDIC) has have been calls from the of the comments made by fast-track the build-up of this deposit insurance fund to continuous support for the expressed the urgency to industry for the corporation, the minister. If you look at deposit insurance fund; this ensure that in the event of corporation in assisting it to fast-track the build-up of in line with the law, to help the number of institutions is necessary when you look any crisis, depositors could discharge its mandate. depositors' insurance fund, insured financial institutions that have been liquidated, back to the global crisis of be paid promptly without She thanked the NDIC currently put about N2 that need assistance. about 49, the rate of recovery 2007 and 2008 when the CBN recourse to CBN or the for its contributions in trillion. He said: "We want to was really not that significant had to bail out a number of treasury for a bailout. maintaining financial system The corporation said as ensure that we do that in a considering that out of 49 banks; about N620 billion Inaugurating Bello stability and commended a deposit insurer, which timely manner to promote banks in liquidation, only was injected by the CBN to alongside the Executive President Muhammadu guarantees payment of confidence and stability about 10 that the corporation liquidate those institutions Director (Operations) of Buhari for the choice of both deposits in the event of failure in the financial system. In is able to pay a 100 per cent and those liabilities that are NDIC, Mohammed Mustapha the managing director and of a participating financial line with our mandate as liquidation dividend. There is being carried by AMCON Ibrahim, the Minister of the executive director. institution, shoring up the well, we want to ensure a need to enhance the powers (Asset Management Company Finance, Budget and National According to her, fund would enable it to pay that there is an orderly and of the corporation to be able of Nigeria) are due for Planning, Mrs. Zainab experience has shown that depositors without recourse faster resolution of liquidated to recover debts owed to settlement." Ahmed, said she was aware the capital market has been to the Central Bank of Nigeria financial institutions where liquidated institutions. Bello stated that the of issues that arose from the supportive in providing funds (CBN) or national treasury. such licences have been "There has been slow country cannot afford to recently amended Banks and to finance the government’s NDIC Managing Director, revoked by the CBN. growth in the deposit have a similar situation Other Financial Act (BOFIA) needs. Buhari Wants NDDC, N’Assembly to Sustain Cooperation Deji Elumoye in Abuja development of the Niger Niger Delta region." edifice." NDDC for greater service with what is on the ground,’’ Delta region. He also commended the The president said the delivery for the people of the President explained. President Muhammadu While commending the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, land on which the NDDC the region. President Buhari Buhari has lauded the cordial management and staff of the Senator Godswill Akpabio, for headquarters was built was “To achieve this, I while urging the NDDC relationship existing between NDDC for staying the course his steadfastness in ending acquired by the Oil Mineral reassigned the supervision management to commit the Niger Delta Development and keying into the reform many years of renting by the Producing Areas Development of the NDDC to the Hon. the funds used for renting Commission (NDDC) and the agenda of his administration, commission, and the attendant Commission (OMPADEC) in Minister of Niger Delta Affairs to more rewarding benefits National Assembly. President Buhari declared "I profligacy. 1996, and was abandoned after for administrative efficiency. said “we are handing over to The president, who spoke am particularly pleased to His words: “I, therefore, use series of design amendments. Second, was the appointment the people of Niger Delta, a yesterday at the virtual note the cordial relationship this opportunity to commend “In 2015, as part of our of Forensic Auditors to befitting Head Office Complex inauguration of the NDDC between the NDDC and the the Minister of Niger Delta administration’s cardinal review the operations of the for present and future use. headquarters building in Port National Assembly and hope Affairs, Senator Godswill objectives to kill corruption, commission from inception Consequently, huge yearly Harcourt, capital, that this relationship will be Akpabio, for providing the some critical reforms were to 2019 and to ensure that rentals would now be saved called for the sustenance strengthened further for the required leadership that saw embarked upon, part of which the appropriations made to and deployed to other areas of the relationship for the benefit of the people of the to the completion of this was a holistic reform of the the NDDC are commensurate of needs in the region" FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 • THISDAY 9 10 FRIDAY,  ͹ͺ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY PAGE TEN ‘‘You are the bridge builders FG: WE HAVE FIREPOWER TO END INSURGENCY WITHOUT MERCENARIES in each of your communities. No the part of the government. the federal government seeking said, do not see any reason why work together given that the surprises me is what is happening one is better placed with your Buhari, who met behind closed the help of mercenaries in the we cannot, with what we have, threat that we face required now in the North-west where strength of moral authority to doors with some traditional rulers, renewed onslaught against deal with these elements. partnership and collaboration. The the same people, with the same ensure that people who visit your said he had given security chiefs Boko Haram, revealing that “These are people, who are misconceived ideas or opinions culture, are killing each other, communities for either business, marching orders to hunt down troops have killed no fewer not looking for anything that in the town by those who are taking their livestock and burning leisure or any honest and credible criminals, including shooting than 2,403 insurgents since the is genuine or legitimate; these uninformed to the effect that property. As a result of that, we reason are protected and made anyone found illegally bearing current administration took off are people who are just out the armed forces are working had a four-hour meeting of to feel at home," he added. AK-47. in May 2015. to perform atrocities, to take in disparity group are not true. the National Security Council In separate remarks, the However, the Chief of Defence According to him, it is pointless calculated measures to inflict "What we have been doing attended by the Ministers of royal fathers stressed the need Staff (CDS), Gen. Lucky Irabor, re-engaging the mercenaries in the pain, violence on people,” he said. today is to let you know that Internal Affairs, Defence, Foreign for the traditional institution to said the armed forces were fight against Boko Haram since He stated that the new disparity does not exist, we Affairs, Service Chiefs, Chief be assigned definite roles in the working together to tackle Nigeria has enough resources to direction of government “is to have come today to be an of Defence Staff, the Inspector constitution, particularly on peace insecurity. deal with the situation. come out with full force,” adding encouragement team to work General of Police and others and security. They also sought Addressing journalists He said: “The president’s view that the government will not together and let you know the and we gave clear instructions. regular engagement with the yesterday in Abuja, the National and the directive are that we will allow itself to be blackmailed directive of the president," he ‘‘One thing that got to the press, National Assembly. Security Adviser (NSA), Maj. Gen. not engage mercenaries when by any group or any individual stated. which I read myself, was that The royal fathers that made Babagana Monguno (rtd), stated we have our own people to deal “who thinks he can hide under He said Buhari had directed anyone with an AK-47 will be interventions at the meeting that the services of mercenaries with these problems. We have the surface and use proxies to them to ensure they restore peace shot. This is because AK-47 is were the Sultan of Sokoto, the would no longer be required as the personnel and resources, and deal a fatal blow on innocent and security to the country within supposed to be registered and it Ooni of Ife, the Obi of Onitsha, the military has the firepower the president has given a new people. I want to assure you a few weeks in conjunction with is only given to security officials. Igwe Nnaemeka Achebe; the Etsu and expertise to defeat insurgents. lease of life to the armed forces.” categorically and unequivocally, other security agencies. “We closed the borders for Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar; Monguno spoke following He stated that the federal government is going to apply He lauded the officers for some years but the intelligence King Jaja of Opobo, Dr. Dandeson clamour that the federal government will also deploy full weight to deal with these what they have been doing so report I’m getting on a daily basis Douglas Jaja; Emir of , Dr. government should enlist military all necessary force to eliminate criminals until such a time that far and charged them not to rest is that those who are conducting Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu; Emir contractors to bring a quick end insurgents and bandits rather they vacate the shores of this on their oars. the abductions, the killings and of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammad to the anti-terror war. than opening talks with them. country.” He also urged them to ensure so on are still not short of arms Iliyasu; and the Alawe of Ilawe- Governor, Prof. “We can’t be singing the same The NSA explained that is that they overcome the security and ammunition." Ekiti, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi. Babagana Zulum, rekindled song every day, and these people difficult to quantify achievements challenges facing the country The president expressed Speaking with journalists after the debate on the necessity are unreliable. They are ignoble; in the security sector, as most within the shortest time possible. dismay over the attacks on police the meeting, the royal fathers of employing mercenaries to they are ready to undermine successes are operational in nature He assured the officers that stations and killings of security expressed concern over the assist troops in combating the whatever agreement we have "which can only be satisfactorily much is being done on their personnel by criminals, stating increasing rate of kidnappings insurgency. had. So, because of that, if the narrated to the people in the welfare while charging them that no investor will invest in a and banditry in some parts of Zulum had also called on the opportunity avails itself, of course, complete absence of panic, etc.” to be disciplined in order to country that is unsafe. the country. federal government to seek the we will talk with responsible On the achievements of end terrorism. Buhari also stressed the need The Etsu Nupe, who spoke support of neighbouring countries people from the side of those Buhari’s administration in the The service chiefs also visited for traditional rulers to use their on behalf of the royal fathers, in the fight against insurgency. people. I don’t even know how to security sector since it assumed the Governor of , roles and positions as bridge said they harped on the need The governor in November categorise them because it’s not as office on May 29, 2015, Monguno Mr. Seyi Makinde, where they builders to complement the for the government to urgently 2020 had made a case for the if they are looking for something said the security forces have killed promised to redouble efforts at government's efforts at ensuring address the situation. employment of mercenaries you can point a finger at; it’s 2,403 insurgents, sea pirates and ending insecurity. peace and security. “We gathered ourselves and as done by the administration not some kind of nationalistic freed 864 kidnapped persons. He appealed to the traditional feel that yes, there is a need for of former President Goodluck situation - something you can He stressed the need for Buhari Promises rulers to deploy their influence us to come and let the president Jonathan. actually identify and relate to," cooperation among the different in assisting the government to know that the situation is telling The Jonathan administration he said. arms of government to fashion Tough Times for fish out criminals. very hard on our people and had used Specialised Tasks, Monguno described bandits out and apply new laws to deal Criminals He also pledged that his there is a need to take urgent Training, Equipment and and insurgents as a murderous with insecurity in the country. administration would continue and immediate steps to actually Protection (STTEP), a South group of individuals who are He added that it makes no President Muhammadu Buhari to support and work with them check the situation,” he stated. African company, to degrade keyed up on drugs, adding that sense using 1958 laws to punish yesterday told traditional rulers to ensure peace and stability. He said the royal fathers, the insurgents in the North- there is nothing to negotiate with today’s offences. that he has given security chiefs ‘‘By your role and positions drawn from all the six geo- east, making it possible for the them. He listed major issues marching orders to hunt down with a history dating back political zones, decided to reclaiming of some towns and According to him, “While impeding efforts at battling criminals, including shooting hundred years, the people trust go back to the old tradition villages from the insurgents, the government is not averse insecurity as personnel shortage anyone found illegally bearing you implicitly and in return you of identifying visitors in their which eventually paved the way to talking to these entities, these and lack of equipment, adding AK-47. provide them with comfort and domains and sharing intelligence for the conduct of elections in human beings, I have to be very that Buhari has now given the The president, at a meeting guidance in accordance with our with security agencies to combat many areas in Borno State in 2015. honest, the government has to go-ahead to address the problems. with the National Council of cultural heritage and traditions. insecurity. The governor, at the North-east apply its weight, that force that He also called on people to Traditional Rulers of Nigeria Governors' Forum meeting in is required because you can’t assist security agencies with co-chaired by the Sultan of NEW STREAMING SERVICE, ARISEPLAY, Bauchi last week, restated his even talk with people who are Intelligence to overcome the Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad advocacy for the recruitment unreliable, who will turn out to asymmetric war as only locals can Sa’ad Abubakar III and the GOES LIVE WORLDWIDE SUNDAY of foreign fighters in the fight do a different thing and people provide information to apprehend Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan UK, Europe and Africa, which available elsewhere. against insurgency. who will continue to hurt society. criminals among them. Ogunwusi, at the State House, will enable the unparalleled “The ARISEPLAY App has The House of Representatives, “So, basically, what the Abuja, appraised them with delivery of hundreds of titles been designed using best-in-class a week later, joined Zulum in government wants to rely upon Armed Forces efforts by the government to in different categories that include algorithms and AI technology demanding the recruitment of is to deal with this issue by using improve the security situation blockbusters, TV series, kids that will automatically foreign mercenaries to assist in all the assets – military assets, Working in Synergy, in the country. programming, comedy, live determine the options that the fight against insurgency. intelligence assets to eliminate Says Irabor Buhari, in a statement by entertainment, as well as the suit each subscriber’s profile, The House passed a resolution these people. his media adviser, Mr. Femi best in Fashion, Music and alert them when there is new on Wednesday for the recruitment “If along the line, some of them The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Adesina, said his administration much more,” the group said. content, provide special playback of foreign fighters following are ready to come out and talk Gen. Leo Irabor, has said the had recorded successes in the It explained that in the options and optimised viewing a motion moved by Hon. and negotiate, when the time armed forces are working together North-east and South-south. Playroom, described as the place to limit the amount of data Abdulkadir Rahis, representing comes, we will do that but for to tackle the security challenges The meeting was attended where “the stars come out to required to stream. We are also Maiduguri Metropolitan Federal now, we can’t keep on dwelling confronting the nation. by security chiefs, including play”, subscribers will be able to offering a 30-day free trial to Constituency. on let’s dialogue." He dismissed insinuations of Monguno, the Inspector-General engage with some of the biggest give our subscribers a chance But Hon. Manu Masur, Monguno emphasised that lack of synergy among them. of Police, Mr. Mohammed names in music and comedy, and to experience the magic,” the representing Darazo/Ganjuwa negotiating with the criminals will Irabor, during a visit with other Adamu; the Director-General listen to some of their current group stated. Federal Constituency, moved for suggest weakness and incapacity service chiefs to the 2 Division of Department of State Services as well as yet-to-be-released Saying ARISEPLAY will an amendment of the motion and on the part of the government. Headquarters of the Nigerian (DSS), Mr. Yusuf Bichi, and the productions. bring the best of the world asked the federal government to “Psychologically, it is not even Army in Ibadan said the visit Director-General of the National It said ARISEPLAY has been entertainment to its subscribers’ consider foreign-paid fighters. good for us. It paints the picture was to demonstrate leadership Intelligence Agency (NIA), carefully curated for a discerning devices and platforms, it advised The motion was adopted after of weakness; it paints the picture by example. Ambassador Ahmed Rufai global audience that is looking them to visit ARISEPLAY.com it was put to a voice vote. of incapacity, and I, just like what "The armed forces of today Abubakar. for exciting, sharp and sagacious or download the app on the However, Monguno ruled out the governor of State demand that every of the services Buhari said: ‘‘But what viewing choices that are not IOS, Google and Apple stores. MONARCHS MAKE CASE FOR ROLE IN CONSTITUTION Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar, who represented the government officials could not in their localities since new faces fulfill its primary obligation Abubakar III, said Ironsi’s 1966 Sultan, blamed the government contain. in the community will easily of safeguarding the lives and Unitary Government Decree; for neglecting the traditional ''Traditional rulers should be be detected and investigated. property of citizens, especially Gowon’s and Obasanjo’s 1967 rulers who would've helped accorded specific responsibilities ''The constitutional provision at the grassroots with the and 1976 Local Government to douse conflicts and ensure for conflict and security should provide for states to collaboration of the traditional Reforms Decrees, respectively, criminals have no hiding place. management in their domains. enact state laws to cater for rulers. TOP GAINERS NGN NGN % stripped traditional rulers of The memo said: ''Currently, This involvement, devoid of specific peculiar matters relating Omo-Agege assured them their powers and gave same traditional rulers do not have partisanship, would enable to traditional rulers in the that the review will be open, SMURTFIT 0.02 0.22 10 to local government councils. the constitutional or other legal active participation of traditional respective states. In addition, impartial, inclusive and INTERBREW 0.45 5.00 9.8 According to him, before the backings to perform effectively institutions in matters pertaining the chairmen of the states' transparent in order to afford CHAMPBREW 0.45 2.09 8.8 1976 local government reforms, as they are not even mentioned to the maintenance of peace and Councils of Chiefs should be all Nigerians the opportunity which stripped traditional rulers in 1999 Constitution. This is a security in their communities.'' recognised by the constitution to contribute to the process. ROYALEXCH 0.02 0.24 8.3 of their powers, Nigeria was at great departure from all earlier The royal fathers also as members of the Council of He said: ''Our experience in LIVESTOCK 0.13 1.83 7.6 that time progressive, peaceful, constitutions that recognised sought to be involved in the State as it has been in all the recent years inclines us more to decent and full of beautiful them, and even gave them recruitment into the police, army Nigerian constitutions, except the fact that our country’s path TOP LOSERS NGN % traditions and cultures. some functions to perform. and other security agencies 1999," the monarchs stated. to greatness lies in the ability AFRINSURE 0.02 0.22 8.3 The traditional rulers thereby ''Constitutionally and protocol to help eliminate the possible Responding to their requests, to maintain a fusion between MBENEFITS 0.03 0.39 7.1 called on the National Assembly wise, traditional rulers are recruitment of miscreants into the Deputy President of the democratic institutions and Joint Committee on the review relegated to the ‘background. the security forces. Senate and Chairman of the the traditional institution. In SOVETRUST 0.02 0.26 7.1 of the 1999 Constitution to create However, the colonialists ''This could be done by Senate Constitution Review the days ahead, the committee UPL 0.06 1.16 4.9 roles for traditional rulers in needed them to consolidate integrating traditional rulers Committee, Senator Ovie will be holding a national public matters involving religion, their indirect rule, the politicians into the screening process to Omo-Agege, told the traditional hearing, followed by the zonal JAIZBANK 0.03 0.65 4.4 culture, security, justice and needed them to stabilise their ensure that officers and recruits rulers that their requests were public hearings and invitations HPE Nestle Nig Plc ₦1,375.00 other ancillary matters. governments and the military are of good character. The official not too much to ask, urging will be extended to Your The monarchs, in a needed them to gain acceptance. involvement of traditional them to lobby lawmakers at the Royal Majesties, Highnesses Volume: 169.35 million shares memorandum presented All the respective levels of rulers (particularly the districts, national and state legislatures, to attend and make inputs Value: N2.12 billion yesterday to the Senate governments needed them to village and wards heads under who are their subjects, for their at these hearings. Surely, and Constitution Review Committee maintain peace and security; as the supervision of the kings, requests to sail through. without a doubt, the success Deals: 3,568 by the Chairman, Coordinating traditional rulers were always emirs and chiefs) in security He stated that there's a need of the process will rest on As at yesterday 11/3/2021 Committee of the Council and at hand to douse conflict that matters will ensure that bad to deepen partnership as the your beneficent support and Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya the police, the military and the eggs do not find hiding places government is better able to partnership.'' See details on Page 39 FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 • THISDAY 11 12 FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 • THISDAY 13 14 THISDAY • FRIDAY, MARCH 12, 2021

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA COMMENT Email [email protected] WHO WANTS TO BE A MILLIONAIRE? The possibility of becoming a millionaire should be open to all lawful citizens and not a reward for deviants Oludayo Tade

wenty-two years of democratic journey (1999-2021) has violence. After mounting the podium through violent instrumentality, brought little dividends for the Nigerian burgeoning they are called “his Excellency”, “honourable”, “distinguished Sena- hoi-polloi who endures unemployment, battle poverty, tor”, ‘Honourable Chairman’ and ‘Powerful Special Advisers’ among die untimely in ill-equipped health infrastructure, train others. Now on the other side, they want to push aside those who their children in grossly underfunded schools, and are enthroned them. Their allies are now working for them to get amnesty governed by parasitic leadership. The value of what civil or possibly a Federal Ministry of Forest Bandits Commission. In other Tservants earned in 1999 was better than what they earn in 2021. These words, banditry is being pushed to enjoy federal character or is it social problems are compounded by rising insecurity and intractable quota system? Nigeria is treading on a dangerous path if ‘Gumism’ corruption. Some people now raise prayer warriors to ask the Supreme (a pleading that unmerited amnesty should be given to armed Fulani Being to grant them journey mercies as they dare to navigate the valley bandits occupying Forests and bearing weapons of war to kill, rape of death on Nigeria’s hellish roads—don’t blame them, even the Prince and kidnap in exchange for millions of naira) is allowed to flourish. of Daura said only God can guard Nigeria’s borders. Politrickcians Criminal gangs across the country will occupy their own forest area, scammed Nigerians with promises that are jettisoned immediately after kidnap; rape and make millions while people preaching Gumism will mounting the podium of power and authority. Millions/billions of plead the State to grant them amnesty. naira from the common patrimony are then diverted for personal and Who wants to be a millionaire therefore deconstructs the process familial uses. They have created a monstrous followership currently through which social support is employed for positive outcomes fighting against the system that sidelined them. The story is the same on the show to make millions. Just as it is on who wants to be a from parasitic leadership in the North who callously nurtures almajirai millionaire show, kidnappers abduct their victims, profile them to system but train their own children abroad to their photocopies in the knowing their network of relations to know the amount of money to South, who cannot provide free education, reduce unemployment or demand as ransom. Thinking of survival, the captives think of where effectively protect their people from internal and external insecurities. help would come from and call a person within his/her network The abandoned children, including their out-of-school comrades have to negotiate and raise money for him/her to be able to ‘walk away’ now come of age and dominate the population of rising insurgent alive. Everyone concerned begins to struggle to raise the money. They citizens. Through banditry, kidnapping and armed robbery and pilfer- also think of whether to inform the police or not having been warned ing of commonwealth, the kingdom of Nigeria suffers violence and the not to do so by the kidnappers if they are interested in seeing their violent are taking it by force. Join Politics and with a Degree Certificate loved one alive. Calling a wrong person who does not have solution in Forest Banditry and Highway Kidnapping, you are on your way to may be costly to the live of the person in captivity. Any wrong becoming a millionaire with opportunity to speak and dine with the move could result in death and this is why most trusted persons are shakers and movers of Nigeria. Indeed, a Diploma Certificate in Mass contacted to help during this period. Those who pay ransom on time Kidnapping skill is an added advantage in 2021 Nigeria. and cooperate with bandits/kidnappers, get to walk away alive. Sadly, Popular Television show, who wants to be a millionaire metaphori- those who try to prove smart, gets the corpse of their loved ones. cally approximate the state of affairs in post- where people leverage on their intellectual prowess to answer questions as Nigerians have been kidnapped by politrickcians who promised they move up the ladder of monetary reward from few thousands to change and next level but unleashes poor economy, ethnic disunity guaranteed sums of money. Poorly managed or unanswered questions and insecurity. Ongoing experiences of insecurity and dashed hopes could cause major loss from N500,000 to N250,000. Just like real life are enough to spur Nigerians to rewrite their own history and reject situation, participants are provided with lifelines: they can call a friend, hushpuppic politrickcians in 2023. To sum up, who wants to be a ask the computer to retain one right and one wrong answer, and they millionaire presents the sad state in Nigeria where violence rules and may decide to walk away with the sum of money they have won. the violent is rewarded while the law-abiding people are terrorised Crime script analysis shows that kidnapping and banditry are scripted by the State. When the state stifles law abiding citizens and slams shows just like it is in becoming Governor, Senator, or President. them behind bars, the message being sent is that there is reward for Through hiring of thugs and unleashing of violence and millions of violence. When governments that cannot provide funding to revitalise naira, politrickcians emerge flag bearers. After comparing and rating public primary and secondary schools as well as universities, spends themselves with their opponents on a scale of fifty-fifty, they ruthlessly money to train terrorists abroad, the message to those going to school affirm themselves as next office occupier. To achieve this, they need to is that they are missing their way to making cool millions in criminal ‘call a friend’ to assist with the realisation of their political goal. It is WHO WANTS TO BE A MILLIONAIRE world. We need to encourage and incentivise lawful behaviour and immaterial if this needed friend is a thug, a corrupt person, warlord or PRESENTS THE SAD STATE IN NIGERIA punish criminals. The possibility of becoming a millionaire should be more. What is important is how useful the evil friend will contribute to WHERE VIOLENCE RULES AND THE VIOLENT open to all lawful citizens and should not be a reward for negative his/her enthronement. They canvass people across divides, lure people IS REWARDED WHILE THE LAW-ABIDING deviants. to their side, and collectively rape people of their mandate through PEOPLE ARE TERRORISED BY THE STATE Dr Tade, a sociologist sent this piece via [email protected] LABOUR AND THE DOWNSTREAM SECTOR Baba Alkasim Baba urges labour to review its hard stance on deregulation of the downstream sector

igerians across Abuja, Suleja, explaining that the competition it would create international rate, price for the domestic crude, the serious moral question for labour leaders opposed Kano, Lagos, and Port would eventually force down petrol price. subsidy challenge had become intractable. to deregulation, prompting many to wonder Harcourt recently experienced Government had also contended that contrary Notwithstanding, since last year’s deregulation, whose fight they are actually fighting. With heart-rending petrol scarcity to labour’s position that deregulation is anti-poor, analysts have praised the federal government for deregulation, will Nigerians still suffer hardship in arising from public fears of a the subsidy system which deregulation automati- fulfilling its promise allowing market forces to the face of volatile international oil prices? Is the speculated increase in the pump cally abrogates only favours the rich who consume determine the pump price of petrol which has temporary hardship of deregulation not better than Nprice of petroleum, an ugly spectacle which many more of the subsidized petrol with their multiple seen the price fall from N145 per litre to N129, the permanent hardship of anti-deregulation? thought was history. exotic cars. swinging to the current N162 in direct proportion For many Nigerians it is time for labour to Not even the often-repeated assurances by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief to the rise and fall in the price of crude oil in the review its hard stance on deregulation as the pulse Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Timipre Sylva and NNPC’s Group Managing international market. of workers whom they claim to represent presently that the ex-depot price of the commodity will not Director, Mallam Mele Kyari, had maintained this Though market efficiency and competition suggest. They believe labour is alone singing the be increased this month could dissuade desperate argument in their engagements with labour over expected to accompany resumption of products anti-deregulation song judging by the rapidity at motorists from thronging fuel stations in search of time. So how did we get to this dig-dong over importation by private sector marketers have not which they have been losing support. For example, elusive commodity. subsidy? yet materialized due to scarce foreign exchange, former NLC president and ex-governor of Edo Industry watchers had assumed that the deregu- The conundrum simply stems from the general the government ensured that marketers did not State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, saw the light lation of downstream oil sector since last March belief that as citizens of an oil producing country, fleece members of the public through arbitrary and converted into a deregulation apostle. Today, meant that petrol sale would be market-driven, Nigerians ought to enjoy very low prices of pump price increases. he is on the good side of history. apart from sanitizing the petroleum products petroleum products, if not for free, a thinking In the normal deregulated environment, the rise Also, members of the Civil Societies who were supply system and insulating it from intermittent fueled by government without even factoring the of the price of crude oil to $60+ per barrel would once staunch supporters of labour have begun to shocks. To a large extent, that had been achieved. costs of production, refining, and transportation of have ordinarily increased petrol’s pump price in backtrack. Just recently, a Coalition of Nigerian In the past four years, motorists of different the oil to end users. the local market. The anticipation of that rise amid Civil Society for Petroleum and Energy Security social status, ranks, regions and religion were used Selling petrol at the lowest possible price meant labour’s insistence on halting the deregulation broke the ranks, cautioning Nigerians against to driving into fuel stations and filling up their absence of market-driven process to recover the process led to the resurgence of fuel queues across allowing labour to plunge the nation into the tanks without worrying about queues. Alas, the costs thereby forcing government to defray the some cities. unnecessary hardship often associated with acute scarcity hit Nigerians, no thanks to the push-back costs through paying subsidy bill to marketers While NNPC has continued to assure marketers fuel scarcity. by labour against the deregulation of the down- which, in no time ballooned to become a mon- and Nigerians that there would be no increase The convener, Mr. Timothy Ademola, called on stream oil sector. strous burden on government coffers amid foul in the ex-depot price of petrol this month, the labour leaders spearheading the resistance to the The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade cries among many Nigerians. market is gradually responding to that assurance deregulation to note that the policy had already Union Congress (TUC) had always argued that Oil industry sources said government had to with some marketers hoarding the products in stabilized petroleum products supply across the in a market-oriented deregulation, any rise in the make some quick moves such as selling crude to anticipation of price adjustment knowing that country to the satisfaction of many Nigerians. pump price of petroleum products would cause NNPC for local refining and domestic consump- the 2021 Appropriation Act has no provision for Rather than ride against popular public opinion inflation and hardship and impoverish Nigerian tion at a subsidized rate. For example, when the subsidy. in its opposition to deregulation, labour should workers by eroding the value of their earnings. crude at the international market sold for between As motorists resort to panic buying knowing urgently review its stance or risk losing its image. But government had robustly engaged and $10 and $12 per barrel, it was sold to NNPC that the current price of N162 per litre is unsus- Not retracing their steps amounts to prescribing countered labour, saying that paying subsidy on at $8 which enabled the NNPC to underwrite tainable in the light of market realities, transport a drug that is even worse and hurts than the petrol was economically unsustainable and the the subsidy but with the 2004 policy change fares would automatically spiral throwing hapless ailment. pain of deregulation would just be temporary, when government insisted that it should pay at Nigerians into greater hardship. The scenario raises Kasim wrote from Abuja THISDAY • FRIDAY, MARCH 12, 2021 15 EDITORIAL THE ASSAULT ON FREE SPEECH

The Nigerian constitution guarantees freedom of expression

he recent arrest and detention of without molestation, the liberty to make choices and Salihu Yakasai by the Department of affirm personal convictions. This brazen assault on the State Services (DSS) was a worrisome fundamental rights of citizen Yakasai is flawed because development. Following the abduc- it represents a crude attempt to truncate free expression tion of 279 female students at Gov- and muddy our collective psyche and conscience. It ernment Secondary School, Jangebe, undermines that respect and love of discourse and , Yakasai, a media aide robust engagements that define the modern age. to Governor Abdullahi Ganduje had tweeted: “Clearly, we as APC government, at all levels, ection 39 (1) of the 1999 Constitution provides Thave failed Nigerians in the number one duty we were that “Every person shall be entitled to freedom of elected to do which is to secure lives and properties. Not expression, including freedom to hold opinions a single day goes by without some sort of insecurity in and to receive and impart information without this land. This is a shame! Deal with terrorists decisively Sinterference.” Similarly, Article XIX of the United or resign.” Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights It is not the first time Yakasai would publicly criticise provides that “Everyone has the right to freedom of the federal government. He was suspended by his opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to principal last October following another tweet where hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive he wrote: “I’ve never seen a government with zero and impart information and ideas through any media empathy like that of Buhari. So many times when his and regardless of frontiers.” By the same token, Article people are going through a difficult time and expect IX of the African Charter on Human and Peoples some sort of tap on shoulder to reassure them that he Rights provides that “Every individual shall have the is in charge, he failed to do so.” Unable to accept such right to receive information and the right to express and consistent errant behaviour from a close aide, Governor disseminate his opinions within the law.” Ganduje authorised Nigeria is a democratic nation that guarantees the SECTION 39 (1) OF THE Yakasai’s sack this rights of citizens, including their freedom of expression, 1999 CONSTITUTION time. But when his within the ambit of the law. While nobody can question PROVIDES THAT ‘EVERY family declared him THISDAY Governor Ganduje for sacking an aide who takes de- missing, accusing EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI light in embarrassing him on social media, the fact also PERSON SHALL BE DEPUTY EDITOR YEMI AJAYI, DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN, ENTITLED TO FREEDOM fingers were pointed MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO remains that Yakasai committed no crime for which he at the DSS. Ini- DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR KAYODE KOMOLAFE should be arrested by the DSS. But we also understand OF EXPRESSION, CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI tially, the EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN the intolerance in the system and the manner the INCLUDING FREEDOM directorate released MANAGING EDITOR JOSEPH USHIGIALE security agencies have become organs for regime TO HOLD OPINIONS AND a statement that he protection - now interchangeable with national security. TO RECEIVE AND IMPART was not with them. With the example set in Abuja, the freedom of citizens INFORMATION WITHOUT Following a social THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED who disagree with governors is increasingly being EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA INTERFERENCE’ media campaign, DSS GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, conscripted in many of the states. The All Progressives headquarters in Abuja ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI Congress (APC) enjoyed unfettered freedom when in DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS BOLAJI ADEBIYI, PETER IWEGBU, confirmed holding him on some spurious grounds. ANTHONY OGEDENGBE opposition. The federal government must therefore be Although Yakasai has since been released, it is shame- DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI told in clear terms that Nigeria is a democratic nation SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH ful that the DSS had to dabble into the issue in the first ASSOCIATE DIRECTORS PATRICK EIMIUHI, SAHEED ADEYEMO and must follow the constitutional process to redress place. CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI any infringement of the law. In a democracy, we must protect the atmosphere of DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO Arbitrary arrest and detention of Nigerians for HEAD, COMPUTER DEPARTMENT PATRICIA UBAKA-ADEKOYA confident self-expression, the right to personal beliefs frivolous reasons must stop. TO SEND EMAIL: first [email protected]

TO OUR READERS Letters to the Editor Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief (150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details [email protected] . We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (950- 1000 words). They should be sent to [email protected] along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer. Remembering Imo’s Democratic Deficit Appeal To Governor Sanwoolu arch 3, 2021 marked exactly one year that the Supreme Court To further compound the problem in , the Supreme Court without any declined to re-examine and correct herself in the case of Uzodimma explanation has refused to hear the application asking the court to give effect to its thank the Governor of , Mr. vs Ihedioha/SC.1462/2019. While Hope Uzodimma flexes in the ruling the case of Uche Nwosu vs APP & Others/SC.1384/2019. That seven months Babajide Sanwo olu for the new Pen euphoria of a controversial mandate; the Supreme Court jurists after filing the application, and the court is yet to deem it right to hear the matter Cinema Bridge constructed for us and are held captive by the conscience of their hearts, Imo is left to or communicate to the litigants tells of the underbelly in the business of seeking for officially opened by the governor on 5th derail from its socioeconomic path. It is disheartening that in a justice in Nigeria. The court has so far refused to adhere or abide to its judicial axiom March, 2021. The Oba Ogunji Road the M21st century, where advancing the frontiers of justice should be in the front burner, in that “justice delayed, is justice denied.” That notwithstanding, the court should be new bridge joins also received attention, Nigeria, we are neck deep in miscarriage of justice. aware that the miscarriage of justice done to Imo will never filter away. Rather, before Igiving the road an expressway look. But the This contraption of miscarriage spearheaded by the Supreme Court ruling, just the eyes and hearts of men, it will be difficult for Imo citizens to have faith and joy of this beautiful infrastructure also comes as Justice Cletus Nweze observed, will continue to haunt, not only the court, but confidence in the apex court. After all, the people in their hearts have openly refused with some fear. Nigeria’s electoral jurisprudence. The precedence the judgement has set is that which to morally extend their mandate to Uzodimma as he is christened the Supreme Court That’s why I am using this medium to beg erodes the basic tenets of democracy. Of having the voters and citizens elect their Governor. the governor to please put into consideration leaders without any obstruction or sidestepping prompted by any institution of state. More worrisome is the fact that it’s not only in Imo that the Supreme Court is the plight of many residents of different Although Imo State and her people are now facing the consequences of that miscar- setting a bad precedence. In , after two Supreme Court rulings, no estates located within the vicinity of the riage of justice, the greatest damage has been the clear erosion of faith in the Supreme one is certain about who is the Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial bridge and road, many of whom are elderly, Court as a great institution of justice, truth, fairness and equity. Rather, that institution District. Two candidates from the same Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are laying feeble, or with other health challenges, who is now seen as part of the Nigerian deep state, where the voices and rights of the claims to the mandate. make use of the road, and have to take the masses are inconsequential, immaterial and of no effect. This is obvious, because the While Imo people have been left to embrace the decision of the court even in the risk of crossing the wide road for various position of the court and its outcomes indicated that Imo voters have no constitutional midst of clear miscarriage of justice, the court should rather be concerned about its daily activities. Also, for our children and rights to elect who becomes their governor. reputation to the outside world. It is not in good stead. It’s that of controversy and wards who go to school or go on errands for By taking away those powers from the masses by way of judicial expedition, the growling by the masses whom the court should serve. As Nigeria battles to foster the homes from time to time. Nigerian electoral jurisprudence has been battered and damaged with dire conse- peace and stability in perilous and dubious times, the judiciary should work hard to If this request is granted, it will reduce the quences. The decision of the apex court to a larger extent underscored the deteriora- restore confidence in Nigeria’s judicial system and the courts. The best pathway to that risk of accidents and fatalities that could arise tion of principles of democracy - where political power resides with the people. And ambition is for the courts to purge herself from overstepping its reach and inhibiting when crossing the road. not a gathering of judges. What has now ensued in Imo is a complete democratic Nigeria’s electoral jurisprudence. The time to act is now. Damian C. Odoemena, Agege, Lagos deficit - the people lacking faith in the system and courts pronouncement. Sopuruchi Ekeh, , Imo State 16 THISDAY ˾FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG Email: [email protected] POLITICS 08114495324 SMS ONLY Obiano’s Other Cheek and Unoka of the Things Fall Apart Nwachukwu Obidiwe, an Abuja-based journalist and public affairs analyst disagrees with Anambra Governor Governor Willie Obiano’s lieutenant for trying to bring Dr Chris Ngige, a former governor of the state into disrepute

n the eve of another gov- by Mahmud Mohammed on December 4, ernorship election, fear 2009 upheld the Appeal Court judgement of missing out (FOMO) is and directed that “ the fact he (Ngige) enveloping the ruling party had to vacate office at the end of the court in . The image proceedings challenging his election in Omaker of the incompetent Governor, accordance with the provisions of the James Eze has been doom-scrolling, an Electoral Act cannot invalidate any pow- attempt to re-wire our nervous system ers or duties exercised or performed by and force our brains to process our dear him while in office.” It is very unfortunate state as unsafe without APGA. James is therefore that Obiano’s managers do not very unlikely to succeed but in converse, know this while selling ignorance in the anyway, the fast-tracked retardation of market that Ngige was “ stripped of the the state is capable of causing that post- halo of all former governors.” traumatic stress disorder for anyone who The truth is that Peter Obi did not obey knew the prosperous state, Governor these judgements and it is no surprise. All Willie Obiano inherited in 2013. through, Obi licked his wounds that he Eze has been making futile attempts to didn’t succeed in obliterating Ngige from shut out a meteor, to badly deconstruct official records through the courts. The the Sen. Chris Ngige enigma. Unfortu- Justice Ononiba Panel which he earlier set nately, one ugly phenomenon, developing up to nail Ngige after denying that he left among the ruling class at Awka Govern- a whopping N13. 8 billion also failed him. ment House is the decline of readership. Ononiba didn’t only confirm Ngige left This may have led to a radical decline in the money but also heaped encomiums the sophistication of thoughts and acts of on him for selfless service to the state. So, governance. A foremost scholar of Mass Obiano merely discharged an obligation communication, Prof. Charles Okigbo had after his Executive Council drew his at- in an NIPR lecture years back in Lagos, tention to the judgments. It is not a favour, warned that today’s generation will have sure! But which pension is being talked to battle the decline of readership as it was about here? Ngige has neither received being eclipsed by viewership. But this pension nor the status-approved pecks of scholar from Ojoto in Idemili South might office for former governors of the state . not have thought of the debilitating effects by him in that period as governor are before his nullification remain valid and As a member of the seventh senate(2011 – of his warnings in Anambra Government legally performed. The nullification of enforceable at law. To hold otherwise will 2015) he declared ineligibility for pensions House. The culture of watching Africa his election has made him to cease the engender chaos.” and notified the State government to that Magic during office hours has successfully performance of those functions as gover- When the matter came before the effect. That status remains ever since his infested Gov. Obiano’s Exco Chambers nor, but the actions made by him at a time Supreme Court, the team of justices led appointment as Minister in 2015. Or will from a nearby educational institution anyone kindly provide evidence that he sharing fence with it. The non-academic has ever drawn pension from the State staff of the institution were lately in the government? news for obsession with films during Time to End Akpabio’s Charade To further argue that Ngige “rose to working hours. Except few, I doubt Boma Ebiakpo, National Chairman of Niger Delta Peoples Forum, power through the backdoor and flushed anyone reads or is interested in research out through the court,” also holds no among the clique that govern the state . amplifies the calls for the swearing-in of the Governing Board of the Niger water. It is illogical that at that time of Otherwise, how could the spokesman of Delta Development Commission without further delay bandwagon politics, a ruling political the Governor, not ignorant of the court resident Muhammadu Buhari must on the first of April. Now that the promised party lost the governorship but won the judgements which declared that Sen. not sit by and let the charade orches- date has drawn close, Akpabio is now say- presidential poll conducted in the same Chris Ngige was governor and all actions trated by Niger Delta Minister Chief ing that the audit will end ‘in a few months’ booths, on the same day. The connivance he performed in office, legal, go ahead to Godswill Akpabio at the NDDC after which the Board will be put in place. of the presidency and the pressure on continue.P Under the ruse of an audit, Chief This duplicitous tendency has chronicled claim that “Obiano restored erstwhile Akpabio has commandeered the NDDC as the manner in which the NDDC under Justice Nabaruma Election Tribunal is well Governor Chris Ngige to the official his personal estate, which he executes as he Akpabio is run. known but probably not to the governor’s memory of the state? wishes. In this period from October 2019 to date, aide who is a complete stranger to Anam- For the records, Obiano did not restore For one and a half years (Since October Akpabio has caused the NDDC to be run by bra State and only interested in his pot of Ngige to the official memory of the State. 2019) he has caused the NDDC to be run illegal interim managements in breach of soup. The courts did on one hand, while his by a succession of interim managements the law and has squandered over N400 bil- But is anyone surprised at the dismal unbeatable achievements as governor while putting on hold the Governing Board lion of its money which rightly belongs to fiasco in Anambra government circle nominated by Mr President and confirmed all people of the Niger Delta from the nine did the rest. Recall that Speaker Mike by the Senate in line with the NDDC Act. constituent states in fictitious contracts. when our Governor, another Tiberus Balonwu and other members of the State In the last 18 months (since October 2019), The minister made his new statement Caesar, flees here and there to the Island House of Assembly had approached the NDDC has had three illegal Interim about ending the audit and bringing in the of Capri in chase of pleasure, while Justice C.O Nweke of the State High Managements imposed on it contrary to Governing Board “in a few months” in re- Caesar’s wife, Vipsania, bursts the trove Court, with pleas bordering on the tenure the provisions of the NDDC Act. The first sponse to the demands of Governors of the of foolish megalomania with regular of the House and other reliefs, implicit was headed by Joi Nunieh, the second oil-producing Niger Delta states who met show-off of opulence? Where a commis- by Prof Daniel Pondei (Akpabio’s former in , the Rivers State capital, with annulment of the tenure of Ngige classmate at Federal Government College on Tuesday, March 9th and demanded that sioner resigned to shield his integrity from as governor and by it, all his acts in Port Harcourt), and the third is the current the Governing Board should be put in place festering corruption and is kidnapped office. The Hon. Justice on September Interim Sole Administrator in the person of immediately in line with the NDDC Act or for weeks? When the head is rotten is a 17, 2007 dismissed the case and chided Effiong Okon Akwa who was previously the financial allocations to the NDDC (aside well-known dictum. the applicants thus, “ Anambra people Akpabio’s staff while he was Governor of from salary payments) should be kept in But James did not obviously seek to knew that Chris Nwabueze Ngige passed . an escrow account pending the putting in understand or find out from his boss When he illegally brought in the first In- place of the Board. through this State as Governor and that terim Management Committee in October The Governors were unequivocal in why Ngige has a “ word of reproach for it was only when Dr. Chris Ngige left the 2019, the minister said it was to supervise a their demands in the statement read by Obiano.” Now, know it. Obiano, repre- scene that members of the House started forensic audit of the NDDC and will last for the Governor of and Chairman sents the allegory of a child whose parents to act like sheep without shepherd.” The six months only after which the Governing of the South-south Governors Forum, Dr readied for the farming season by provid- Judge added that before the nullification, Board will be inaugurated as required by Ifeanyi Okowa, who said that the run- ing a fertile piece of land and everything the Governor was lawfully sworn in and the law - the NDDC Act. He said the audit ning of the NDDC in over one year by an needed for bumper harvest. The child did would end in six months but by February Interim Caretaker Committee, and now, all acts performed as governor were legal of 2020 he sacked the acting managing an interim administrator is worrisome not only eat all the yams, arguing it was and enforceable in law. director of that IMC in the person of Ms Joi as it does not augur well for the people profitable to buy from the market, he also Not satisfied, Gov. Peter Obi who was Nunieh and appointed Prof Daniel Pondei of the Niger Delta as opportunity for all sold the farm, hoes, and squandered the sponsoring the senseless suit as part of his (his former classmate at Federal Govern- states to be represented as they ought to be proceeds at a local palm wine joint, only scorched earth measures to ghost Ngige’s ment College PortHarcourt) in her place represented in the board of the NDDC does to go about borrowing like Unoka in legacies did not rest as he egged on the with a fresh promise that the audit would not exist. According to the Governors, “So, Achebe’s ‘Things Fall Apart.- James, this be completed by December 2020, an exten- it means that the NDDC is actually run in is why Ngige criticizes Obiano. Anambra ‘boys’ to the Enugu Division of the Appeal sion of nine months. As that promised date such a manner that it is actually not truly Court, where in a lead Judgment on June approached he sacked the Interim Manage- beneficial to our people, because there are was a metaphorical fertile farm with 26, 2008, Justice Victor Omage upheld ment Committee headed by Pondei and no stakeholders input in the running of the predictable successive bumper harvests the judgement of the High court and appointed his former personal aide Effiong affairs of the NDDC.” until the locusts and weevils landed in declared, “ Governor Ngige exercised Okon Akwa as Interim Sole Administrator 2013 and devastation set in. for two years (sic) all the functions of a with a renewed promise that the audit NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the governor . Nothing in law has nullified would be completed by the end of March online edition on www.thisdaylive.com NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the 2021 and the Governing Board put in place those actions , though his appointment online edition on www.thisdaylive.com has been nullified. All the acts performed THISDAY ˾FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 17

PERSPECTIVE How Ojo Amos Saved the National Assembly from Fraudulent ICT Contractors Archie, Meghan and British Omotosho Benjamin, a human rights activist and a social commentator condemns the activities of Racism faceless groups making allegations of financial Chido Nwangwu, Publisher, USAfricaonline.com infractions against the Clerk of the National Assembly weighs-in on the prevailing controversy surrounding n 2018, driven by the need for Nige- an interview granted by British royal couple, Prince ria’s National Assembly to be at par with what is globally acceptable in Harry and his wife, Meghan which suggests that the parliamentary democracy, in terms of monarchy is guilty of decades of violent discrimination, Iup to date internet connectivity, the then Clerk to the National Assembly, Barr. Ataba destruction of families and institutional plunder of Sani-Omolori, hired Helios, Nanocom, and Cosynet as contractors to provide ‘lnternet many countries and cultures Bandwidth Connectivity Upgrade’ for the nation’s highest legislative body. would classify as the neo-natives Unknown to the former Clerk, by entrust- are from the within their gated ing the provision of Internet Bandwidth environments, they are their Connectivity to the companies, he was own flesh and blood. The ‘House making a costly mistake. The mindless and of Windsor’ decided to go to a selfish breach of the contractual agreements foolish battle which they will that were later perpetrated gave credence continue to lose, namely, as the to this. bullhorn brigade for bigotry and Worried and quite uncomfortable with racism. the ugly development, less than one year Imagine how evil exposes itself. later precisely in September 2019, Omolori With their fury and malice to ordered a forensic audit of the activities of both the infrastructure and sensitive docu- deprive an innocent two-year old the contractors. A reputable Information ments of NASS without the consent of the Archie what should be his right, I and Communication Technology (ICT) National Assembly ICT. Additionally, hired know that the conniving squad of company known as Sunnet System and Helios staff had IP Addresses and email spin doctors at the Buckingham Datacom Services Limited was engaged. addresses with NASS domain (e.g. helios@ palace, Times of London and The The eventual results and reports of that nass.gov.ng), with which they carried out Mail, could not twist enough exercise exposed terrible ‘can of worms’ correspondences as if it were officially for facts and distort enough details and unbridled corruption that were being National Assembly. of the unfolding catastrophic perpetrated by the ICT firms hired by the Consequently, the report of the Project events, especially regarding the Barr. Omolori. Appraisal by Sonnet System and Datacom rchie Harrison Mount- monarchy and the lovely Archie. Among others, it was revealed that a Services Limited, recommended that batten-Windsor, is easily Thanks to the dexterity and critical component of the contractual agree- because”MS Nanocom failed the entire the most popular baby in special skills of Oprah, Meghan ments entered with the three contractors network integrity test carried out and the world —this week; at and Harry were able to tell their by the National Assembly, was neglected; considering the MD’s questionable role Aleast in the United States and the stories with grace, calmness sense the agreement was ‘that the Autonomous in the NASS ASN registration saga, hence United Kingdom. He has always of higher purpose. Systems Number (ASN) for the National vendor should be disengaged’. Further- been appreciated by many who On the other side, on ITV Lon- Assembly Network must be autonomous more, “MS Navadee Nigeria Limited has have followed the story of his don, we were treated to the taw- from the service providers, as a unique failed to source bandwidth from the NCC birth, alongside the drama of the dry spectacle of the loquacious, identification number. But unfortunately, licensed Tier- 1 Service providers, hence the British monarchy — specifically mendacious and utterly hypo- the ASN, a supposedly government entity company should be disengaged’. the gangster games the Windsors’ critical Piers Morgan overdose on was actually registered as a private compa- Again, “a gross misconduct act was play and have played. his concoction of lies and conceit ny by one of the vendors.’ This is as curious established against MS Compsysnet Ltd, The baby with a very handsome and infantile malice! as it is a security breach. by colluding with MD of Nanocom Nigeria and friendly smile was born on He jumped in, head first. Worse, Again, the Internet Protocol ( IP), bought LTD to register NASS for ASN for their May 6, 2019 to Prince Harry, Duke he dismissed everything the for the National Assembly with 1,024 public company’s commercial venture... Thus, MS of Sussex, and Meghan, Duchess Duchess raised as false! Especial- IP Addresses , only 256 were assigned to the Compsysnet Ltd should be disengaged’ as of Sussex. His mother, Meghan, is ly, what were cases of potentially National Assembly, while the remaining 786 National Assembly ICT consultant”. also a product of mixed marriage. suicidal depressive events in the IP Addresses were assigned to one of the Yet Sani-Omolori, for reasons best known Her mother is African-American life of Archie’s gracious mother. firms, using National Assembly network to him, could not act on that timely recom- and her father is a Caucasian. Piers jumped into a cauldron…. infrastructure and resources for private mendations. Meghan was born and raised in Third, the man had the same use’. This is equally criminal. The other But as soon as Ojo Olatunde Amos came Los Angeles, California dismissive response to the issue contractual infractions unearthed by the on board on July 17th, 2020, he initiated So, that makes the young baby of the so-called “concern” of one audit are in this order. a systemic revolution in the ICT activities an American citizen as well as a of the members of the British The Managing Director of one of the ICT within the National Assembly.This is how British citizen. monarchy who wondered and contractors, was an official administrator Ojo Olatunde Amos rescued the National It will really be nice to have discussed the implications of of ASN, and a major stakeholder in another Assembly from the orchestrated security Archie run for President of these Megan and Harry’s — at the time firm that is the registered owner of the ASN and economic sabotage by the fraudulent United States around the 2050s. — unborn son Archie’s possible purportedly arranged for the National Information and Communication Technol- As the British tabloid media dark brown skin colour/tone. Assembly. ogy (ICT) contractors. He diligently and dis- world went into an apoplectic Meghan told Oprah — who was The management of the ASN was passionately acted on the audit report that frenzy after the explosive inter- jaw-dropping shocked — that a solely placed in the hands of two of the indicted the contractors mentioned above. view Oprah Winfrey had with family member raised with Harry contractors; a major exposure that the He bravely took significant actions as being Meghan and her husband Harry, “concerns and conversations National Assembly Network could have guided by the recommendations. Ojo Ola- this racism and bigotry problems about how dark his skin might be been manipulated for personal gains or be tunde Amos succeeded in recovering the within the British monarchy when born.” held to ransom’. National Assembly ICT infrastructure from became the issue of interest Meghan hinted Archie was The sensitive National Assembly the desperate cartel that held the nation’s across the world. It exposed the denied the title of “Prince” be- enterprise server infrastructure containing highest legislative body to ransom; he took monarchy for their decades of cause of his mixed-race, arguing data base of legislators, management staff time to block all the remote tunnel created violent discrimination, destruc- it is his birthright title with the to National Assembly were in the hands of for the contractors’ remote control of the tion of families and institutional security protection that goes with a Ghanaian, the Chief Operating Officer, National Assembly ICT infrastructure. plunder of many countries and it” “It’s not their right to take it who as findings showed ‘ was involved in Today and under Ojo’s, watch, the cultures — while at the same away.” clandestine espionage activities’ during his internet bandwidth connectivity has been time pretending to be the source The cold truth is that the contract with the National Assembly. upgraded, from 930MPPS (shared con- of light and progress; that they, backroom managers and fixers It was also revealed that his contract nectivity) to 1.55GBPS with connectivity the British colonialists and neo- at the the British monarchy which began in 2014, to supply Microsoft extended to the residences of top leadership colonialists were the only train to consider(ed) it worthy of their licenses and deploy Microsoft for only and management officials of the National civilization and salvation. heritage and posterity to chose three months for the National Assembly Assembly. They did and still do some the side of darkness, in this 22nd expired in 2016, but he refused to hand over As a result of the COVID-19 reality, he has crazy, bigoted stuff that remind century! All in the name of being the credentials of the National Assembly arranged unlimited remote control protocol millions of their exploitative on “Her Majesty’s service! Again, servers to the ICT department, until Ojo mobile data with Mifi devices for all Sena- decimation, divide-and-rule for all of its iniquity, the British Olatunde Amos came in July 2020. tors, House of Representatives members, power play, and callous indiffer- monarchy has become the reflec- More worrisome was the discovery that, top management staff to Director Cadre, ence to the general well-being tive emblem of racial antagonism he has setup a private connection “tunnel/ of the “natives” in the colonized and banner of lies, extortion, VPN” directly from his private residence to NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the units of the British Common- brigandage and gangsters’ para- the National Assembly ICT infrastructure, online edition on www.thisdaylive.com wealth. But this time, those that I dise — for a long time. that allows him to have unfettered access to 18 FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 •THISDAY THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ 19

Group Business Editor Obinna Chima Email [email protected] BUSINESSWORLD 08152447875  ͳ˜ͰͮͰͯ MONEY MARKET REPO S & P INDEX S & P INDEX EXCHANGE RATE OBB 15.33 % CALL 12.50 % INDEX LEVEL 564.82 % 1/4 TO DATE -15.73 % N379/1US DOLLAR* OVERNIGHT 16.33 % 1-MONTH 9.50 % 1-DAY -0.14 % YEAR TO DATE -15.73 % *AS AT LAST FRIDAY 3-MONTH 11 % MONTH-TO-DATE -041 %

Quick Takes FAAN Backs Aviation Cargo Conference The Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria Capt. Rabiu Yadudu, has thrown his weight behind the first international aviation cargo conference ‘Chinet ‘21’, organisers of the event, Atqnews has said. The Publisher of Atqnews, r Ikechi Uko, said that the support of some Nigerian government agencies for the conference slated for August, 2021 in Lagos is a very welcome development. “Nigeria has suffered for the first time in a decade a massive trade deficit according to the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (NBS). Exports grew by 6% but still less than imports. This deficit can be seen at the airports every day. The question is, why is Nigeria not exporting goods in large quantities?” he asked. According to Uko, Nigeria is a country of over 200 million resourceful people that has depended a lot on imported goods, which has been eroding the national wealth. “A lot of airlines bring freighters daily to Nigeria and most of them fly out empty. There is a need to change this dysfunctional scenario. Chinet Aviation Cargo Conference will be an annual conference that brings all potential exporters; cargo managers, logistics firms, airlines, airport, customs and everyone in the aviation and cargo ecosystem to chart a pathway that enables Nigerians export more. We have already engaged stakeholders in Nigeria and abroad WELCOME TO NPA to find a profitable route to growing and networking the value Chain.” L-R: The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala-Usman presents the authority’s corporate Ambassador Uko explained that with Covid-19 many countries responded to the emerging global dynamics by seeking new supply partners for basic plaque to the Assistant Director, SERVICOM, Presidency, Ngozi Akinbodewa, who paid her a working visit at the Corporate goods. This new reality, he noted, has redefined the global supply chain, adding Headquarters in Marina, Lagos…recently that Nigeria needs to play a part in the emerging new cargo ecosystem. ‘Growing Confidence Returns to Air Travel’ The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced results from its latest poll of recent travelers, revealing growing confidence in returning New Airlines Emerge in Nigeria as to air travel, frustration with current travel restrictions, and acceptance of a travel app to manage health credentials for travel. IATA said 88 per cent believe that when opening borders, the right balance Global Aviation is Threatened must be struck between managing COVID-19 risks and getting the economy going again; 85 per cent believe that governments should set COVID-19 targets Chinedu Eze AVIATION would still be a tough year has completely stopped its (such as testing capacity or vaccine distribution) to re-open borders; 84 per for the aviation industry and long-haul operations and the cent believe that COVID-19 would not disappear, and we need to manage New airlines are emerging in Officer (CEO) of Aero Con- that the sector would begin to Boeing 787s in its fleet have its risks while living and traveling normally; 68 per cent agreed that their Nigeria to take care of the low tractors, Captain Ado Sanusi, ease out next year, according to been returned to the lessors. quality of life has suffered with travel restrictions and 49 per cent believe capacity in the air transport told THISDAY that in Nigeria the International Air Transport Scandinavian airline, SAS that air travel restrictions have gone too far. industry. Signals from different there would be growth in the Association (IATA). has returned 14 planes and IATA noted that while there is public support for travel restrictions, it is parts of the world have shown industry because the sector is Reports indicate that Virgin fired 520 pilots and the Scan- becoming clear that people are feeling more comfortable with managing that it will take years for the air currently underserved that it Airways has fired more than dinavian states are said to be the risks of COVID-19. transport industry to recover therefore needs more airlines 3,000 people including 600 studying a plan to liquidate “The top priority of everybody at the moment is staying safe amid the COVID-19 crisis. But it is important that we map a way to being able to re-open borders, fully from the devastating ef- and more aircraft to meet the Pilots. Virgin Australia has filed Norwegian and SAS to rebuild manage risks and enable people to get on with their lives. That includes the fects of COVID-19, as many surging demand. for bankruptcy. African carrier, a new company from their freedom to travel. It is becoming clear that we will need to learn to live and renowned airlines are going He noted that as road trans- Air Mauritius has gone into ashes. travel in a world that has COVID-19. Given the health, social and economic under, some merging, while port continues to be unsafe administration just as South In the Middle East, Ethiad costs of travel restrictions, airlines should be ready to re-connect the world thousands of aviation workers due to security threats and African Airways has become cancelled 18 orders for A350, as soon as governments are able to re-open borders. That’s why a plan with are losing their jobs. rail transport is yet to con- bankrupt. grounds 10 A380 and 10 Boeing measurable milestones is so critical. Without one, how can we be prepared And with indications that nect all parts of the country, Finish carrier, Finnair has 787 and laid off 720 staff. for restart without an unnecessary delay?” said ATA’s Director General and the Nigerian industry currently there would continue to be returned 12 planes and laid Emirates grounded 38 CEO, Alexandre de Juniac. suffers from low capacity, new high demand for air travel in off 2,400 people. Ryanair Airbus A380s and cancelled People are also feeling frustrated with the loss of freedom to travel, with 68 airlines are emerging even it the country. grounded 113 planes and got all orders for the Boeing 777x per cent of respondents indicating their quality of life is suffering as a result. Travel restrictions come with health, social and economic consequences. is believed that more operat- But industry analysts said rid of 900 pilots for the moment (150 aircraft, the largest order Nearly 40 per cent of respondents reported mental stress and missing an ing aircraft are needed in the Nigeria’s case is going to be and possibly 450 more in the for this type) and over 56 of important human moment as a result of travel restrictions. And over a third country. an isolated one because global coming months. have said that restrictions prevent them from doing business normally. The former Chief Executive prediction indicated that 2021 Norwegian airliner, ASA Continued on page 20 BA Advises Travellers on COVID-19 British Airways (BA) has advised Nigerians intending to travel to the United Kingdom from Lagos and Abuja to access up-to-date and compulsory COVID-19/health information and requirements before departing Nigeria. Minister Explains Declining Agricultural Exports The BA management in Lagos said the advice became necessary as many James Emejo He added that the develop- trained and well equipped travellers come to the airport without the necessary requirements thereby in Abuja AGRIC causing unnecessary flight delays. ment had serious consequences extension workers,” he said. “It is mind boggling to see that so many people still come to the airport without The Minister of Agriculture and for agriculture and economic Nanono, who reiterated the requirements. Nigeria is not on the red list but there are important protocols Rural Development, Alhaji Sabo sesame seeds, herbiscus, growth. the cardinal principles of the they need to follow and COVID-19 test and documentations passengers need Nanono, has said the country soybeans and cassava among However, he said the present administration to to get before they can travel to the UK. The carrier will be fined if a passenger had lost huge opportunities in several others, to have mean- government had embarked grantee food security, said travels to the United Kingdom (UK) without the necessary documentation. its agricultural exports drive ingful export market, extension on a programme to increase mechanisation is the way This will also cause stress for the travelers,” a BA staff said. as a result of lack of extension services must become a priority its extension workers to 75,000 forward in agricultural practice. According to BA, the UK is taking steps to help stop the spread of COVID-19. workers to educate and guide for the government and private within the next to three years. He, nonetheless, bemoaned All persons (including UK nationals and residents) arriving in the UK must export activities. sector. He said:”The implications of the low level of tractorisation provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within three days of He noted that over the past The minister stated that this is that we are way behind in the country, which he put departure to the UK. four years, Nigeria had also over the years, extension work the average of our farmers at about seven tractors to 100 been banned from the exporting had been extremely useful in to an extension worker even square kilometers. its red beans into the European guiding farmers on how to our neighbours have gone far He said:”It is supposed to market because of the level of plant, apply fertilizer, weed as ahead of us. be 127 tractors to 100 square chemicals application in the well as time to harvest. “So, one of the important kilometers. Kenya is the most “Aviation is the crop, which is considered high However, he said this impor- issues when I came on as mechanised country in Africa for human consumption. tant segment of agriculture had minister is extension work. with 27 tractors per 100 square bedrock of any Speaking in Abuja at the been relegated to the extent that I realised that we are losing a kilometers. nation today and opening of a training workshop extension workers are currently lot not only in direct production “If Nigeria is going to catch if the workers for extension services agents in absent in some states. but also in post harvest because up with Kenya, it has to have the 36 States of the federation He said a recent censor on we lack enough extension 60,000 additional tractors in are not happy including the Federal Capital extension work which was car- workers to go round.” the country. to do their job, Territory (FCT), the minister ried out about three years ago The minister stressed that “And if we are going to argued that these problems by the government, revealed key issue for the country create a strong synergy between then there is no wouldn’t have arose, if there that only about 16,000 extension remained how to modernise agriculture and the industrial security” were extension workers to workers existed throughout agriculture adding that to create sector and play our role in the Chairman, Senate Committee guide the farmers. the country, although there a platform between the sector export of agricultural commodi- on Aviation, He pointed out that for local are other private extension and the industrial sector. Senator Smart Adeyemi commodity crops including workers. “But you have to have well Continued on page 20 20 THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ BUSINESSWORLD NEWS

NEW AIRLINES EMERGE IN NIGERIA AS GLOBAL AVIATION FG May Earn N30bn from Cargo Transfer to IS THREATENED the airline’s personnel are to Onitsha Port, Others be refitted. They “invite” all employees over 56 to retired Eromosele Abiodun to move cargo between Lagos He said by the time the he said: “Even on the road, challenges and surmounting Hungarian carrier, Wizzair and Onitsha and to other inland nation’s waterways are put there are security challenges. and addressing them. has returned 32 A320s and The federal government may ports into active use, it would So, there are security challenges On the charges that may laid off 1,200 people, including have struck gold with the plan Specifically, he said: “So it is save the country’s decaying everywhere and there is no way arise, he said it would be 200 pilots, another wave of movement of cargo from Lagos all about moving cargo between infrastructure, “and the money we would discuss movement cheaper than moving cargoes 430 layoffs planned in the ports to inland ports across Lagos and Onitsha and other being spent on repairing in- of cargoes without looking at by road while the modalities coming months and remaining the country especially those inland ports. We have licensed frastructure and rebuilding of the security challenges. There’s are still being worked out, employees would see their of the southeastern part of the about eight barge operators. roads would reduce and not a case of getting everybody “moving cargoes from Lagos wages reduced by 30 per cent. country like Onitsha. A lot of people have applied the be there again. involved, the Navy, Police, the to Onitsha by water will be Also IAG (British Air- This followed the operat- but we are being very careful According to him, moving NIWA Police, Marine Police cheaper than moving it from ways’ parent company) has ing licences issued to about because we have the Standard cargoes from Lagos to Onitsha and even the local communities Lagos to Onitsha by road. abandoned the takeover of eight barge operators to move Operating manual, which we and other inland ports would because security is everybody’s “People are creating unneces- Air Europa (and will pay containers from Lagos Ports strictly insist that you have increase earnings and gener- concern and we all have to sary fear about insecurity, when €40 million compensation to Onitsha River Port to to meet all the requirements. ate more revenue going into address it.” I came into office and made for that), while IAG (Iberia) other inland ports through At the same time also we government’s coffers, adding He confirmed that the inter- up my mind to explore the grounded 56 planes; IAG the nation’s inland waterways. do not lose sight of the fact that NIWA is engaging NPA state barge haulage operations possibility of using our inland (British Airways) grounds 34 Although the Nigerian that NPA also licenses barge and other stakeholders to would start immediately, saying waterways, everybody discour- planes and everyone over 58 Inland Waterways Authority operators. We try to synergise facilitate the commencement that NIWA is doting the i’s and aged me. Then we did a trial years has been asked to retire. (NIWA) has kept the estimated our operations so standards of the cargo haulage.” crossing the t’s, highlighting run using Onne to Onitsha and THISDAY also gathered revenue from the effort to are not compromised.” On the security of cargo, the basic logistics and the it worked.” that currently, 60 new air- its chest as a result of fears craft stored at Airbus with of jeopardizing the project, no buyers in sight (order THISDAY checks revealed cancellations) including 18 that the federal government A350s. would rake in as much as But in Nigeria a new airline, N30 billion yearly if well United Nigeria Airlines took to managed. the sky last month and Green Managing Director of NIWA, Africa Airways, NG Eagle and Chief, George Moghalu, while Binani Air are queuing for Air addressing newsmen during a Operator Certificate (AON). meeting with the stakeholders in Lagos said that moving cargoes by waters through MINISTER EXPLAINS barges would be cheaper DECLINING than roads. AGRICULTURAL Moghalu, who refused to EXPORTS disclose estimated revenue ties, it means mechanisation from the project, said the is the way forward and that’s effort was part of ongoing the programme the federal efforts to solve the gridlock government is undergoing.” in Lagos ports. He added that to achieve He said that NIWA manage- meaningful mechanisation,the ment decided to have meeting country required extension with the barge operators that it workers who are capable of has already licensed to fashion delivering results. out ways to make the project He said the government will successful. continue to push towards re- He said the representatives positioning extension services, of Nigeria Ports Authority “untill we achieve our target (NPA) and the President of of 75,000 extension workers the Barge Owners Association over a period of three years.” of Nigeria (BOAN) and other He said about 45,000 stakeholders looked at the COURTESY VISIT extension workers consisting programme NIWA has on L-R:Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo presenting a souvenir to the Managing Director Nigeria Liquefied government and the private multi-modal transports system Natural Gas, Mr. Tony Attah, during the MD’s courtesy visit to Naval Headquarters in Abuja...recently sectors are currently available. He said:”It’s not an issue of only guiding the farmers, you (extension agents) should …Assures Investors on Security also strive to be farmers. Farming is becoming more James Emejo in Abuja ness community of his desire the COVID-19 pandemic forced He added that a meeting ment is providing necessary attractive and I think of our to ensure that the country is a postponement of further on the issue would soon be infrastructure, particularly teeming population, youth The Minister of Industry, Trade safe for all and sundry. meetings. scheduled. power supply at Kano and make up 70 per cent of the and Investment, Mr. Niyi Djik had sought the minister’s the minister, however, said The minister, therefore, called Calabar free trade zones. population.” Adebayo has assured investors consent on the revival of bilateral his ministry had already set up on the Neitherlands investors to He said the federal gov- He said the way forward that the federal government was trade consultation between the a working group on the bilateral take advantage of the African ernment recently signed an for the country was for the committed to addressing the two countries. consultation, hoping that before free Continental Free Trade agreement for the provision youths to make sacrifice to problem of insecurity in the He further stressed the need the end of the year the meeting Agreement (AfCFTA) to invest of 25 megawatts of power to embrace agriculture while country. for the government to find last- would be revived. in the country so that they can each of the free trade zones in the government must also Speaking during a visit by ing solution to insecurity and In a statement issued by his benefit from the huge continental Kano and Calabar. empower them into agriculture. the Netherlands Ambassador foreign exchange for investors Special Assistant on Media, Mr. market worth N4.23 trillion as Djik, however, congratulated to Nigeria, Mr. Harry van Djik, in the country. Ifedayo Sayo, Adebayo further well as cheap labour in the Buhari and Adebayo on the the minister said President The envoy particularly assured investors that he had country. emergence of Dr Ngozi Okonjo- Muhammadu Buhari recently raised the issue on the need secured the commitment from He also urged them to take Iweala as the Director General changed his service chiefs and to revive the bilateral consulta- the Governor of the Central Bank advantage of the free economic of the World Trade organisation, took other security measures to tion between the two countries of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin trade zones in the country, describing it as “diplomatic assure Nigerians and the busi- which he said the spread of Emefiele, on the issue of forex. stressing that the govern- victory for Nigeria.” NIMASA Intensifies Training for Seafarers Group Business Editor ÌÓØØËÒÓ×Ë Eromosele Abiodun certificated in the latest batch. Governing Board and the seeing changes as a result of the “You should be able to cause Capital Market Editor He added that the initiative Management of NIMASA, training you have received, we those shipowners, who currently Goddy Ogene The Nigerian Maritime Ad- is important as maritime is congratulated the graduates and should see general improvement say the y are not disposed to Comms/e-Business Editor ministration and Safety Agency now being positioned to play a reminded them of the essence in port handling. We need to hiring our seafarers, to have a ××ËÕÙØÔÓ (NIMASA), has announced that central role in Nigeria’s economic of the training. see improvement in three stages: rethink. Then, the third stage, the Asst. Editor, Money Market it is intensifying the training diversification drive. “The essence of this train- short-term, medium-term, and long-term, is self-development or ß×ÏÕÏÑÒÏ Senior Correspondent and certification of seafarers to “Seafarers are the lifeblood of ing is for us to have the right long-term, ”he said. follow-up trainings,” he added. ËÒÏÏ×ÕÓØÑÌÙÖß(Advertising) enhance the country’s position shipping, and shipping is not people. Now it is left for you to The short-term changes, he The NIMASA boss said the Correspondents in an increasingly competitive only an economic imperative translate what you have learnt added, relates to the ability of agency had invested a lot to ÒÓØÏÎßäÏ(Aviation) maritime world. Director-General for us in Nigeria, it is also a key into practice as you do your the seafarers to apply what ensure that the seafarers were ÜÙ×ÙÝÏÖÏÌÓÙÎßØ(Maritime) of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, part of the country’s economic job. In so doing port efficiency they learned in the classroom well trained and qualified to Ë×ÏÝ×ÏÔÙ(Finance) ÌÏÜÏáÙÔÓ(Insurance) disclosed this while presenting diversification effort. Our invest- would improve, which would to their job. The second stage compete with their colleagues ÒÓØÏ×ÏÕËÐÙÜ(Energy) certificates to graduands of the ment in the training of seafarers translate to the attractiveness of is the medium-term, which has in other parts of the world. He ××ËØßÏÖÎÎÏÒ(Energy) Nigerian Seafarers Development is deliberate; it is part of our the country’s ports worldwide, to do with noticeable changes asked them to make the best Reporters Programme (NSDP) in Lagos. shipping development agenda,” and ships would be attracted in their activities, changes in use of the opportunity given ÙÝËÖÏÕÒßÙÑÓÏ(ICT) ÏÞÏÜäÙÒÙ(Energy) He stated that a total of 788 Jamoh stated. and able to come. terms of everything they do to them to improve themselves seafarers were trained and The DGl, on behalf of the “From today we should start as seafarers. and make Nigeria proud. FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 • THISDAY 21 A LETTER TO MY Beloved HUSBAND, HIGH CHIEF (DR.) O. B. LULU-BRIGGS, OON, DCF, DSSRS May 22, 1930 - December 27, 2018

drew me into your life and shared your all with me. You did My Beloved Opuda, everything humanly possible to protect me, even in the face of all sorts of deceptions and misconceptions from those who did not understand our commitment to each other. Curiously, Senibo, oday, over two years since you peacefully translated We experienced so much together that I believed there was into glory in Accra, Ghana, a funeral will hopefully be nothing any human being could do that would surprise me. Dumo and Sofiri T held in your honour. However, your children (except Over the past 807 days, I have come to appreciate what you then asked for an Dumo) and I cannot confirm whether the remains taught me about death bringing out the worst in people, inventory of your that will be committed to mother earth will be the remains especially those without Christ. I am writing to share what of you my beloved husband because I still have your trav- I have endured since you left this wicked world, in the hope properties so that el documents and the required export documents to bring that as your life inspired so many, they would also learn from they could decide you to your beloved Abonnema. One wonders how your the events that trailed your transition. which one of the remains could have been smuggled into Nigeria for burial. The shock of your sudden transition initially drew our im- properties to sell to My dear Opuda I know it was your wish to be laid to rest in mediate family together. By December 29, 2018 all your chil- cover your funeral your beloved hometown, alongside Young Briggs Iniikei- dren – Senibo, Dumo, Sofiri, Solate, Aima, Rachael, Dateim, expenses and to give roari II - your great grandfather, legendary Kalabari warrior, Iyowuna and I were in Accra and we visited Transitions Place the Founder and Sole Defender of Abonnema - and Benson Funeral Home together. We prayed and mourned your tran- Senibo and Sofiri Lulu-Briggs, your beloved father. These are the two men you sition to glory and thanked God for your illustrious life. money to enable credited for shaping your world view and inspiring you to them to prepare for set and achieve audacious goals for the greater good of your We were overwhelmed by the outpouring of prayers, love community. All glory, praise, honor and thanks to God Al- and kind wishes that we gratefully received from around your funeral as well mighty for your extraordinary and impactful life. the world as the news spread. And it will warm your heart to know that there are some who have continued to pray with I am also thankful to God that, as your wife, I had the oppor- us and encourage us till today. tunity to love and to be loved by you unconditionally. You 1 22 THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ BUSINESSWORLD NEWS

NEW AIRLINES EMERGE IN NIGERIA AS GLOBAL AVIATION FG May Earn N30bn from Cargo Transfer to IS THREATENED the airline’s personnel are to Onitsha Port, Others be refitted. They “invite” all employees over 56 to retired Eromosele Abiodun to move cargo between Lagos He said by the time the he said: “Even on the road, challenges and surmounting Hungarian carrier, Wizzair and Onitsha and to other inland nation’s waterways are put there are security challenges. and addressing them. has returned 32 A320s and The federal government may ports into active use, it would So, there are security challenges On the charges that may laid off 1,200 people, including have struck gold with the plan Specifically, he said: “So it is save the country’s decaying everywhere and there is no way arise, he said it would be 200 pilots, another wave of movement of cargo from Lagos all about moving cargo between infrastructure, “and the money we would discuss movement cheaper than moving cargoes 430 layoffs planned in the ports to inland ports across Lagos and Onitsha and other being spent on repairing in- of cargoes without looking at by road while the modalities coming months and remaining the country especially those inland ports. We have licensed frastructure and rebuilding of the security challenges. There’s are still being worked out, employees would see their of the southeastern part of the about eight barge operators. roads would reduce and not a case of getting everybody “moving cargoes from Lagos wages reduced by 30 per cent. country like Onitsha. A lot of people have applied the be there again. involved, the Navy, Police, the to Onitsha by water will be Also IAG (British Air- This followed the operat- but we are being very careful According to him, moving NIWA Police, Marine Police cheaper than moving it from ways’ parent company) has ing licences issued to about because we have the Standard cargoes from Lagos to Onitsha and even the local communities Lagos to Onitsha by road. abandoned the takeover of eight barge operators to move Operating manual, which we and other inland ports would because security is everybody’s “People are creating unneces- Air Europa (and will pay containers from Lagos Ports strictly insist that you have increase earnings and gener- concern and we all have to sary fear about insecurity, when €40 million compensation to Onitsha River Port to to meet all the requirements. ate more revenue going into address it.” I came into office and made for that), while IAG (Iberia) other inland ports through At the same time also we government’s coffers, adding He confirmed that the inter- up my mind to explore the grounded 56 planes; IAG the nation’s inland waterways. do not lose sight of the fact that NIWA is engaging NPA state barge haulage operations possibility of using our inland (British Airways) grounds 34 Although the Nigerian that NPA also licenses barge and other stakeholders to would start immediately, saying waterways, everybody discour- planes and everyone over 58 Inland Waterways Authority operators. We try to synergise facilitate the commencement that NIWA is doting the i’s and aged me. Then we did a trial years has been asked to retire. (NIWA) has kept the estimated our operations so standards of the cargo haulage.” crossing the t’s, highlighting run using Onne to Onitsha and THISDAY also gathered revenue from the effort to are not compromised.” On the security of cargo, the basic logistics and the it worked.” that currently, 60 new air- its chest as a result of fears craft stored at Airbus with of jeopardizing the project, no buyers in sight (order THISDAY checks revealed cancellations) including 18 that the federal government A350s. would rake in as much as But in Nigeria a new airline, N30 billion yearly if well United Nigeria Airlines took to managed. the sky last month and Green Managing Director of NIWA, Africa Airways, NG Eagle and Chief, George Moghalu, while Binani Air are queuing for Air addressing newsmen during a Operator Certificate (AON). meeting with the stakeholders in Lagos said that moving cargoes by waters through MINISTER EXPLAINS barges would be cheaper DECLINING than roads. AGRICULTURAL Moghalu, who refused to EXPORTS disclose estimated revenue ties, it means mechanisation from the project, said the is the way forward and that’s effort was part of ongoing the programme the federal efforts to solve the gridlock government is undergoing.” in Lagos ports. He added that to achieve He said that NIWA manage- meaningful mechanisation,the ment decided to have meeting country required extension with the barge operators that it workers who are capable of has already licensed to fashion delivering results. out ways to make the project He said the government will successful. continue to push towards re- He said the representatives positioning extension services, of Nigeria Ports Authority “untill we achieve our target (NPA) and the President of of 75,000 extension workers the Barge Owners Association over a period of three years.” of Nigeria (BOAN) and other He said about 45,000 stakeholders looked at the COURTESY VISIT extension workers consisting programme NIWA has on L-R:Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Gambo presenting a souvenir to the Managing Director Nigeria Liquefied government and the private multi-modal transports system Natural Gas, Mr. Tony Attah, during the MD’s courtesy visit to Naval Headquarters in Abuja...recently sectors are currently available. He said:”It’s not an issue of only guiding the farmers, you (extension agents) should …Assures Investors on Security also strive to be farmers. Farming is becoming more James Emejo in Abuja ness community of his desire the COVID-19 pandemic forced He added that a meeting ment is providing necessary attractive and I think of our to ensure that the country is a postponement of further on the issue would soon be infrastructure, particularly teeming population, youth The Minister of Industry, Trade safe for all and sundry. meetings. scheduled. power supply at Kano and make up 70 per cent of the and Investment, Mr. Niyi Djik had sought the minister’s the minister, however, said The minister, therefore, called Calabar free trade zones. population.” Adebayo has assured investors consent on the revival of bilateral his ministry had already set up on the Neitherlands investors to He said the federal gov- He said the way forward that the federal government was trade consultation between the a working group on the bilateral take advantage of the African ernment recently signed an for the country was for the committed to addressing the two countries. consultation, hoping that before free Continental Free Trade agreement for the provision youths to make sacrifice to problem of insecurity in the He further stressed the need the end of the year the meeting Agreement (AfCFTA) to invest of 25 megawatts of power to embrace agriculture while country. for the government to find last- would be revived. in the country so that they can each of the free trade zones in the government must also Speaking during a visit by ing solution to insecurity and In a statement issued by his benefit from the huge continental Kano and Calabar. empower them into agriculture. the Netherlands Ambassador foreign exchange for investors Special Assistant on Media, Mr. market worth N4.23 trillion as Djik, however, congratulated to Nigeria, Mr. Harry van Djik, in the country. Ifedayo Sayo, Adebayo further well as cheap labour in the Buhari and Adebayo on the the minister said President The envoy particularly assured investors that he had country. emergence of Dr Ngozi Okonjo- Muhammadu Buhari recently raised the issue on the need secured the commitment from He also urged them to take Iweala as the Director General changed his service chiefs and to revive the bilateral consulta- the Governor of the Central Bank advantage of the free economic of the World Trade organisation, took other security measures to tion between the two countries of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Godwin trade zones in the country, describing it as “diplomatic assure Nigerians and the busi- which he said the spread of Emefiele, on the issue of forex. stressing that the govern- victory for Nigeria.” NIMASA Intensifies Training for Seafarers Group Business Editor ÌÓØØËÒÓ×Ë Eromosele Abiodun certificated in the latest batch. Governing Board and the seeing changes as a result of the “You should be able to cause Capital Market Editor He added that the initiative Management of NIMASA, training you have received, we those shipowners, who currently Goddy Ogene The Nigerian Maritime Ad- is important as maritime is congratulated the graduates and should see general improvement say the y are not disposed to Comms/e-Business Editor ministration and Safety Agency now being positioned to play a reminded them of the essence in port handling. We need to hiring our seafarers, to have a ××ËÕÙØÔÓ (NIMASA), has announced that central role in Nigeria’s economic of the training. see improvement in three stages: rethink. Then, the third stage, the Asst. Editor, Money Market it is intensifying the training diversification drive. “The essence of this train- short-term, medium-term, and long-term, is self-development or ß×ÏÕÏÑÒÏ Senior Correspondent and certification of seafarers to “Seafarers are the lifeblood of ing is for us to have the right long-term, ”he said. follow-up trainings,” he added. ËÒÏÏ×ÕÓØÑÌÙÖß(Advertising) enhance the country’s position shipping, and shipping is not people. Now it is left for you to The short-term changes, he The NIMASA boss said the Correspondents in an increasingly competitive only an economic imperative translate what you have learnt added, relates to the ability of agency had invested a lot to ÒÓØÏÎßäÏ(Aviation) maritime world. Director-General for us in Nigeria, it is also a key into practice as you do your the seafarers to apply what ensure that the seafarers were ÜÙ×ÙÝÏÖÏÌÓÙÎßØ(Maritime) of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, part of the country’s economic job. In so doing port efficiency they learned in the classroom well trained and qualified to Ë×ÏÝ×ÏÔÙ(Finance) ÌÏÜÏáÙÔÓ(Insurance) disclosed this while presenting diversification effort. Our invest- would improve, which would to their job. The second stage compete with their colleagues ÒÓØÏ×ÏÕËÐÙÜ(Energy) certificates to graduands of the ment in the training of seafarers translate to the attractiveness of is the medium-term, which has in other parts of the world. He ××ËØßÏÖÎÎÏÒ(Energy) Nigerian Seafarers Development is deliberate; it is part of our the country’s ports worldwide, to do with noticeable changes asked them to make the best Reporters Programme (NSDP) in Lagos. shipping development agenda,” and ships would be attracted in their activities, changes in use of the opportunity given ÙÝËÖÏÕÒßÙÑÓÏ(ICT) ÏÞÏÜäÙÒÙ(Energy) He stated that a total of 788 Jamoh stated. and able to come. terms of everything they do to them to improve themselves seafarers were trained and The DGl, on behalf of the “From today we should start as seafarers. and make Nigeria proud. THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ 23

    FG Partners IPADIS to FG Explains Continued Closure Reposition Aviation Sector of Other International Airports Following complaints by stake- Umar Ganduje in his office that it resumes sooner than later. Stories by Chinedu Eze West Africa’ is scheduled for heads of civil society and media holders and air travellers about on Tuesday. He, however, challenged Kano Wednesday, 17thand Thursday, organisations and others. the delay in the reopening of According to Sirika, it does indigenes to create activities Federal Ministry of Aviation in 18th March 2021,” Nuhu said The DG, NCAA would other international operations not make economic sense for that would make the airport conjunction with International in the statement. deliver welcome and introduc- at the Mallam Aminu Kano government to spend so much more viable through increased Partners for Aviation Develop- He disclosed that great tion address while the official Airport, Port Harcourt Inter- money, as it has done in the passenger traffic. ment, Innovation and Sustain- numbers of participants opening would be conducted national Airport, Omagwa and airport, and just decide to leave Kano State Governor, Gan- ability (iPADIS) is organising a expected to brainstorm in the by Permanent Secretary, Federal the Akanu Ibiam International it inoperative with the attendant duje had told the minister that two-day high level ministerial all- important event comprised Ministry of Aviation, Hassan Airport, Enugu, the Minister of degeneration on infrastructure, he was in the ministry for two meeting on “Enhancing Air ministers, DGs/CEOs of aviation Musa. Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika redundancy amongst operational reasons, first to show apprecia- Transport Connectivity and agencies, tourism, public health The Founder and President has identified reasons for the staff, revenue losses, hardship tion to the federal government Growth in West Africa”. and border control sectors from of iPADIS), Dr. Olumuyiwa delay. to travellers, amongst others. led by President Muhammadu This was disclosed by the economic community of West Benard Aliu would deliver The minister in a statement He, however, told the Buhari for the completion of Director General of the Nige- African States (ECOWAS) and keynote address. signed by Director, Public delegation that included some the International wing of the rian Civil Aviation Authority contracting States. “The first day, which will Affairs, Ministry of Aviation, members of the Kano State House Mallam Aminu Kano Interna- (NCAA), Captain Musa Nuhu, Others are heads of interna- witness meeting of experts James Odaudu, said that it of Assembly, representatives of the tional Airport, and secondly to in a statement made available tional and regional organizations, led Director Generals of Civil had been the intention of the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado appeal for the resumption of to THISDAY. including International Civil Aviation will consists of five federal government to reopen the Bayero and members of the Kano international flight operations Nuhu said the virtual/online Aviation Organization (ICAO), sessions. The discourse will airports for international flight Chamber of Commerce, that the at the airport. ministerial meeting was for West United Nation World Tourism centre on pre-COVID-19 operations but it is considering decision to suspend international The governor expressed Africa member states, policy Organization (UNWTO), World challenges to air transport certain factors including health flights to and from the airport, great concern over the effect makers, air transport experts, Health Organisation (WHO), development in the West African and security reasons. like the ones in Enugu and Port of the continued suspension aviation professionals and other International Air Transport region; challenges and risks that He acknowledged that Harcourt, were for health and of international flights to and stakeholders in the sub-region. Association (IATA), Airport encumbered the development the continued suspension of security reasons. from the airport by passengers “The high level ministerial Council International (ACI), and implementation of solutions international flights to and from The minister acknowledged and service providers. meeting is aimed at retooling African Union Commission at national levels; current and the airports was denying the the hardship to the users of the According to him, the Kano and repositioning aviation (AUC), African Civil Aviation future impacts of pandemic ministry and its agencies a lot airport, passengers and service State government has put in sector within the sub-region to Commission (AFCAC), Africa on air connectivity; strategies of revenue. providers alike, and promised place all that was necessary contend with present and future Airlines Association (AFRAA), and sectorial synergies that are The minister said this when that all that was necessary for to make the state healthy for challenges. The event with the African Air Traffic Management required for air transport growth; he received a high-powered the resumption of international flights, including mobilization of theme:’Enhancing Air Transport Organisation (ASECNA), and adoption of conclusions and delegation from Kano State, flight operations at the airport the populace for the COVID-19 Connectivity and Growth in Industrial Training Fund (ITF), recommendations.” led by Governor Abdullahi would be fast-tracked to ensure vaccinations. NAHCO Fetes Female Staff on International Women’s Day

The nation’s leading ground Women’s Day 2021, with cash a thorough analysis. nation, women have contributed leading lights of this company, Officer, NAHCO, Mr. Adeoye handling company, Nigerian rewards. According to the Group immensely in building the fam- we have so many high flying Emiloju, urged the women to Aviation Handling Company In celebrating this year’s event, Managing Director and Chief ily, the society and the nation. We women in our midst, and we challenge the status quo, to Plc (NAHCO Plc), recently the company held a seminar Executive Officer, NAHCO are celebrating our women today are happy to celebrate them on aspire to be the best, as the celebrated its women on the via zoom, where the topic ‘’I Plc, Mrs Olatokunbo Fagbemi, because, apart from being our this auspicious occasion.’’ sky is not just their limit, but occasion of the International choose to challenge’’ was given “Women are the bedrock of the assets, they have remained the On his part, the Chief Finance a starting point. 24 FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 •THISDAY FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 • THISDAY 25 24 THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ BUSINESSWORLD ANALYSIS FG’s Airport Infrastructure Renewal Chinedu Eze writes that the decision by the federal government to embark on building additional terminals to its international airports some years ago was insightful as those facilities can now meet the needs of increasing passenger traffic any Nigerians were surprised last week when the global body, Airport Council International (ACI), African Region gave the Airport Service Quality (ASQ)M 2020 award to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The ACI recognised the airport as the best airport in Africa because it met the requirement of processing between five and 15 million passengers per year in addition to the size of the airport. Some Nigerians who spoke to THISDAY on the recognition by ACI expressed surprise because over the years Nigerian airports had been criticised for being dilapidated, as obsolete facilities hamper easy passenger process. So it was like a rude awakening when it suddenly happened that in the international airports in Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Port Harcourt, the federal government was building state of the art terminals. The terminal in Port Harcourt was the first to go on stream in 2018, followed by that of Abuja in 2019 and soon Kano and Lagos terminals would start processing passengers, according to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). The General Manager, Corporate Affairs, FAAN, Mrs. Henrietta Yakubu, said the award represented the agency’s commitment to, “continuously improving customer experience Abuja Airport New Terminal across all our airports. The recognition comes at a time when we are geared towards ensuring Airport Expansion started with the certification of the Murtala this tempo and soon we will go to Port Harcourt, seamless airport facilitation with the opening Maybe it is because of the projected increase Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Kano and Enugu airports,” he said. of new terminals and upgrading of our current in passenger movement that the federal govern- Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Reacting to the rating of the Abuja airport, infrastructures across board.” ment is seriously considering concession of Airport, Abuja in September and November the former General Manager, Business Develop- She added that despite a turbulent year the facilities. 2017 by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority ment of FAAN and currently the Managing plagued by COVID-19 induced financial The Ministry of Aviation said that in addi- (NCAA) Partner, TMSS Logistics, Alhaji Nuhu Adam, struggles; the authority has endeavored to tion to the terminals that are currently under Before the certification, Airport Council told THISDAY that the award given to Nnamdi prioritize customer satisfaction while ensuring construction, if the airports are given out in International (ACI) guided by FAAN inspected Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja was a that health and safety remain topmost. concession, the concessionaires are required the provision of facilities and equipment at the laudable one, which signifies that the airport to refurbish the existing facilities in Abuja two airports in accordance to recommended has improved significantly and also indicates Passenger Traffic and Port Harcourt, adding that in Lagos a practices in order to meet international standards. that the federal government is doing well in There has been growing air passenger traffic new terminal needs to be constructed and the It was after these conditions were met that improving the airport facilities in Nigeria. both for local and international travels. Consider- existing MMA1 (General Aviation Terminal NCAA, in accordance to the International Civil He said the government should go further ing Nigeria’s huge population, industry observers (GAT) international terminal decommissioned. Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regulations, and provide landing facilities at the airports always argued that although passenger traffic “The Ministry aims to develop Nigeria’s certified the two airports. under FAAN management so that airlines could is growing but not as fast as it ought to be major commercial airports and surrounding The certification upped the rating of the operate into these airports late in the night, and that is because not many Nigerians can communities into efficient, profitable, self- Murtala Muhammed International Airport, remarking that this would enable airlines to afford to travel by air. But over the years the sustaining, commercial hubs which will create Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International operate their airlines for longer hours, provide airport facilities have experienced passenger more jobs and develop local industries,” the Airport, Abuja in Africa, as the Lagos, which is longer service to travellers and generate more over capacity due to passenger growth and report said. the fifth busiest airport is projected to become revenue to FAAN. lack of corresponding expansion of terminal It also disclosed that the federal government a major hub in West and Central Africa. He also said the FAAN should do everything facilities. of Nigeria would like to use the PPP (Public, With the certification of these airports, possible to build website for each of its inter- Some of the airports affected included the Private Partnership) model to leverage private Nigeria’s rating has not only improved but national airports so that people could access ones in Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Enugu, Owerri, sector participation and foreign investment to these airports can serve as hubs in West and them from all over the world, noting that the Port Harcourt and Benin. achieve the upgrade and development of new Central Africa because of the international international airports are only included in the FAAN started expanding terminal facilities infrastructure at these airports in the fastest recognition. website of the agency’s international airports, in these airports and others and awarded the and most cost-effective manner. The then Director General of the Nigerian but each should have its own website. building of new terminals at the international On the scope of the project, the report said Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the late “The award indicates that ACI African Region airports in Lagos, Abuja, Enugu, Kano and it fits well within the scope of the Ministry Captain Muhtar Usman, said Nigeria had has been monitoring the improvement of the Port Harcourt. and the ICRC (Infrastructure Concession become the only country in Africa to have airport and kudos should go to the federal FAAN’s record of passenger traffic in the last Regulatory Commission) and would help its two airports certified in accordance to government, FAAN and the management of 17 years, from 1999 to 2016, showed progressive Nigeria to reach its objective in terms of air ICAO safety standard and the only country Abuja airport. increase of passenger traffic every year. transport: developing and profitably managing in West Africa sub-region with internationally “The award speaks volumes on how far the In 2016, total passenger traffic in all the customer-centric airport facilities for safe, secure certified airports. airport has improved. If we can receive such airports managed by FAAN was 14, 361, 587, and efficient carriage of passengers and goods The late Usman said the certification had respected accolade now that the airport is still while it was slightly lower in 2017 to 13, 704, at world-class standards of quality. improved the rating of the two airports in work in progressive, we should expect more 215, it rose to 16, 371, 674 in 2018 and 17, 580, safety standards in the international aviation global recognition when the federal government 023 in 2019. Taking up the Challenge circles and would attract more global carriers must have achieved its multimodal transport The federal government has also projected But the federal government has always had to the country, which would boost air transport system. The Abuja airport stands out in every that the major international airports: the Murtala the intention to concession the airports since the and create more jobs for the citizenry. aspect of airport development. Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), last 15 years but in 2012, government decided He hinted then that this would reposition “However, FAAN still has a lot of work to Lagos, the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, that instead of going through the concession air transport to contribute more to the GDP of do. Abuja airport has not been linked to its Abuja, the Mallam Aminu Kano International process, it adopted the policy of rehabilitating the country because it would boost passenger own website. In this period of information Airport, Kano and the Port Harcourt International the airports, known as airport renewal and then movement in domestic and international technology, the airport should be accessed Airport, Omagwa would be processing about signed the contract with the Chinese Exim bank destinations, as passenger movement was by anyone who wants to know more about 55 million passengers by 2048. to borrow money to build the new terminals expected to double from over 15 million per it from any part of the world. You can easily This was the projection made by the Outline at the international airport, in addition to the annum in the next 15 years. access the domestic airport terminal managed by Business Case Report for the concession of the international terminal facility at the Akanu “It is also interesting to note that with the Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL) four major airports, titled, Nigeria Four Airports Ibiam International Airport, which project is certification of Abuja airport, Nigeria has become in Lagos, known as MMA2. The Abuja airport PPP and made available by the Ministry of nearing completion. the first state to achieve the certification of remains our best so far,” Adam said. Aviation. The plan to concession the airports, which more than one international airport in the Industry observers said that the award to The report said the forecast of total traffic gave impetus to the report quoted above is AFI (Africa/Indian) Region. However, we are Abuja should serve as incentive for government for the four airports in Nigeria is expected government’s solution to obsolete airport facilities not resting on our oars, as the certification of to sustain the tempo of infrastructural improve- to grow on average at 5.3 per cent over the but labour unions have always descried the Kano, Port Harcourt and Enugu airports are ment of the airports so that they would meet next 30 years, from 11 million passengers in decision to concession the airports, alleging scheduled for completion in compliance with international standards in terms of security, 2017 to 55 million by 2048. spurious intentions and insincerity in the the Abuja Ministerial declaration and safety safety, critical facilities like toilets, Internet access The report attributed the growth to the concession plan and emphasised that FAAN targets of 2012,” he had said. and easy passenger facilitation. strong population growth and affluence of could effectively manage the airports if given The then Managing Director of FAAN, Saleh Stakeholders also called on FAAN to establish this population, so government is expected free hands by the Ministry of Aviation to do so. Dunoma reiterated the agency’s commitment elaborate transit facility at the Abuja airport to provide sufficient capacity to handle this to continue with the present tempo in the to enhance regional and sub-regional flight amount of forecast traffic. Airport Certification development of the other international airports operations, where passengers would stay and Progress report on the international airports “We made a commitment to continue with connect international flights from the airport. THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ 25 BUSINESSWORLD MARITIME Ruckus over Practitioners Operating Fee EromoseleAbiodun writes that the threat by customs agents to cripple commercial activities at the Tin Can Island Port over the insistence of a terminal operator, TICT Terminal on payment of Practitioners Operating Fee should be taken seriously to avoid a major crisis

Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi Samuel Nwakohu

n March 1, 2021, the Council cargo out of the ports. named declarant on the import documents. On his part, an executive member of Tin for the Regulation of Freight According to him, “We are glad to inform Meanwhile, ANLCA said they had written Can Chapter of ANLCA, Emmanuel Onyema, Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) you that following successful integration the Nigerian Police Force, the DSS Tin Can said CRFFN had not made any positive commenced the collection of with terminal operators in the western Port, Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), impact to regulate the freight forwarding the controversial Practitioners ports, enforcement of POF collection has Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Tin Can practice. He added that the POF collection OOperating Fee (POF) at the ports. now commenced.” Island Command, the NPA and all other would only amount to additional cost of The commencement is on the back of a This is just as he revealed that only 64 relevant agencies and stakeholders notifying cargo clearance for importers, which in turn, letter dated January 6, 2020, and signed freight forwarders out of a total registered them of the pocketing of TICT Terminal. would be passed on the consumers. by the Director, Home Finance, Minister 787 freight forwarders were currently practic- The agents in the letter stated: “Our “Ever since the council members were of Finance, Budget and National Planning, ing legitimately at the nation’s ports and attention had been drawn to the illegality inaugurated, we have not seen any value Okokon Udo. borders points. perpetrated by CRFFN in the compulsory they have added to members. We don’t see In the letter, the Minister of Finance, Budget He added that the POF, which is de- payment of POF which is expected to be them in the port. How can they come up and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, gave rived from the provisions of section 6 of pald before writing of TDO (Terminal with the issue of money? We expected them the approval for the commencement of the the CRFFN Act, is a major source of the Delivery Order) to work because we are having challenges collection of Practitioners Operating Fee (POF) council’s internally generated revenue, first “We discovered that they have been force- at the port. At the moment, cost of clearing at the nation’s seaports by the Regulation for the government and second to drive the fully attached the payment as a condition to is high and they are coming up with POF. of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN). necessary reforms and develop the industry the writing of TDO at Tincan Island Container With the amount of money they want to The minister stated that freight forwarders “Integration with terminal operators in Terminal (TICT) and they have commenced collect per container that means cost of must henceforth show receipt of payment the Eastern ports is on-going and we shall the action without any prior notification. clearing will increase and the importer is of POF before they can exit their cargoes communicate to you accordingly with respect Our stand on this act is attached to the the one that will pay but at the end of the at the ports. to enforcement of same in the Eastern ports. above court case pending the determination day, whatever they spend will be passed To drive home the message, the CRFFN The user public is strongly advised to verify of the case before the court. It ls an act of to the final consumer,” he said. organised a sensitization workshop in Lagos the authenticity of the freight forwarder illegality and unlawful action considering Another freight forwarder, Emmanuel early last year. At the forum, clearing agents they wish to engage on the CRFFN website. the fact that the case is In court.” Njoku, also expressed concern over the lamented that the implementation of the This is to ensure you are dealing with a The agents added, “It is on this note that delay experienced in assessing the portal new directive by the Finance Minister will registered freight forwarder. we are planning on picketing the Tincan created by CRFFN to make the POF payment, lead to congestion and increase the cost of “We really want to appreciate the body Island Container Terminal (TICT) on a saying that agents are finding it difficult doing business at the nation’s ports. of shippers and freight forwarders who peaceful demonstration with the support to register on the platform. This, he said, According to CRFFN, under the POF operate under very difficult conditions to of Nigeria Police Force and all other relevant would lead to delay in cargo clearance at regime, importers will pay N3.50 per every keep Nigeria moving. The CRFFN will do security agencies. The date and time willbe the port. ton of cargo imported into the country, N1.50 her best to provide the enabling environment communicated to you all very soon. Out However, the former Chairman, Igbo per kilo of every air cargo, N1, 000 on every for the freight forwarding industry, ”the Interest is basically attached to the protection Maritime Forum, PTML Chapter, Mr. imported 20-feet container and 2,000 per CRFFN boss said. of our members, we will not condone any Francis Uchechukwu Aniezechukwu, said 40-feet container. act of illegality in our industry.” POF was a government order which made After several failed attempts by the Stiff opposition it a constitutional issue. council, it announced late last year that The commencement has, however, been Agents expresses disappointment He explained that CRFFN was supposed to it had commenced the collection of the met with stiff opposition as agents have Apart from ANCLA, the large army of veer into capacity building for the betterment controversial POF. The CRFFN, it was vowed to do whatever is necessary to resist freight forwarders plying their trade at the and welfare of freight forwarders first before gathered, is expected to rake in as much the move. Lagos ports has risen against the payment of venturing into POF matter. as N10 billion annually from the imposition Three days ago, the Tin Can Island Port POF. The leadership of National Association According to him, “The contentious issue of these fees on shippers. Chapter of the Association of Nigerian Li- of Government Approved Freight Forwarders shouldn’t be whether the money be paid or At a press briefing to announce the com- censed Customs Agents (ANLCA) threatened (NAGAFF), Association of Registered Freight not. CRFFN hasn’t done enough. Let collect mencement of the collection of the POF, to cripple commercial activities at the Tin Forwarders, Nigeria, (AREFFN), have all the POF but the question is; what will it the agency warned that freight forwarders Can Island Port over the insistence of a warned their members of the implications be used for?” who failed to comply will not be allowed terminal operator; TICT Terminal on payment of resisting the collection of the fees. On the way forward, Aniezechukwu to exit the ports with their containers. of POF before cargoes are released. Public Relations Officers, Association of maintained that what CRFFN should do The Registrar/CEO of CRFFN, Samuel Following the commencement of POF Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, PTML is for them to make their presence known Nwakohu, said with the approval from the collection early this month, TICT Terminal Chapter, Suleiman Ayokunle, expressed by the freight forwarders in the industry Finance Ministry and other government had announced that any freight forwarder disappointment at CRFFN, saying that the because there are so many things hampering agencies at the ports, there would be no who failed to provide receipt of payment council has not done enough to address freight operations. going back on the collection of POF. of the POF would not be allowed to take operational challenges faced by agents The National Council of Managing Directors With the new initiative, he said the council delivery of their cargoes. at the port but is more interested in the of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), would now be fully equipped to regulate In a notice to all her members at Tin Can collection of POF. had in 2019 called on the federal government freight forwarding in the country, adding Port signed by its Public Relations Officer, “We have series of problems at the ports, to halt the collection of POF by the dissolved that as a noble profession, freight forwarding Alhaji Idowu Owoade, ANLCA argued that which should be a priority for whoever that governing board of the CRFFN through the is not an all comers’ affair. the matter of the POF collection was currently thinks well for the country. POF as good as Ministry of Transport. The CRFFN had following the conclusion before the law courts and it amounted to it is being projected, can then come after President of NCMDLCA, Lucky Amiwero, of the integration with the Nigerian Ports an illegality and disregard for the law, if the infrastructures have been put in place in a letter to President MuhammuduBuhari Authority (NPA) and the Nigeria Customs the CRFFN carries on with collection. because every delay in cargo operation has stated that CRFFN no longer exist. Service (NCS) in January this year announced According to ANLCA, the law Suit NO: multiplier effect. The shipping company According to Amiwero, “Federal High plans to commence the collection of POF FCH/L/CS/1424/2018 is between Titlay release that POF is directly attached to Court ruling on Suit No FHC/L/CS/5172 in all seaports in the country, a move that Investment Limited and the CRFFN. simple means that if POF is not paid, you /2008 as referred by the Court of Appeal, was held back by fierce protest by freight THISDAY checks last week revealed that cannot get your cargo release from shipping was delivered on the 24th of March 2015, forwarders and COVID-19. the payment of the POF had commenced companies, and by implication, if there is which upheld that the tenure of the Council/ Speaking during the media briefing Nwa- successfully. a five minute delay, it can create a one Governing Board Expired on the 25th of kohu revealed that any freight forwarder Officially the POF attracts N1,000 on 20ft week congestion. So we believe that the November 2012, that the Council has vacated that refused to comply with POF payment containers at and N2,000 on 40ft containers, machinery to make things work should be office, as there is no existing Council and would not be allowed to carry his or her most importantly, the money is paid by the put in place before issue of POF,” he said. no Council to deliver judgment.” 26 THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ BUSINESSWORLD ANALYSIS FG’s Airport Infrastructure Renewal Chinedu Eze writes that the decision by the federal government to embark on building additional terminals to its international airports some years ago was insightful as those facilities can now meet the needs of increasing passenger traffic any Nigerians were surprised last week when the global body, Airport Council International (ACI), African Region gave the Airport Service Quality (ASQ)M 2020 award to the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. The ACI recognised the airport as the best airport in Africa because it met the requirement of processing between five and 15 million passengers per year in addition to the size of the airport. Some Nigerians who spoke to THISDAY on the recognition by ACI expressed surprise because over the years Nigerian airports had been criticised for being dilapidated, as obsolete facilities hamper easy passenger process. So it was like a rude awakening when it suddenly happened that in the international airports in Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Port Harcourt, the federal government was building state of the art terminals. The terminal in Port Harcourt was the first to go on stream in 2018, followed by that of Abuja in 2019 and soon Kano and Lagos terminals would start processing passengers, according to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). The General Manager, Corporate Affairs, FAAN, Mrs. Henrietta Yakubu, said the award represented the agency’s commitment to, “continuously improving customer experience Abuja Airport New Terminal across all our airports. The recognition comes at a time when we are geared towards ensuring Airport Expansion started with the certification of the Murtala this tempo and soon we will go to Port Harcourt, seamless airport facilitation with the opening Maybe it is because of the projected increase Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Kano and Enugu airports,” he said. of new terminals and upgrading of our current in passenger movement that the federal govern- Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Reacting to the rating of the Abuja airport, infrastructures across board.” ment is seriously considering concession of Airport, Abuja in September and November the former General Manager, Business Develop- She added that despite a turbulent year the facilities. 2017 by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority ment of FAAN and currently the Managing plagued by COVID-19 induced financial The Ministry of Aviation said that in addi- (NCAA) Partner, TMSS Logistics, Alhaji Nuhu Adam, struggles; the authority has endeavored to tion to the terminals that are currently under Before the certification, Airport Council told THISDAY that the award given to Nnamdi prioritize customer satisfaction while ensuring construction, if the airports are given out in International (ACI) guided by FAAN inspected Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja was a that health and safety remain topmost. concession, the concessionaires are required the provision of facilities and equipment at the laudable one, which signifies that the airport to refurbish the existing facilities in Abuja two airports in accordance to recommended has improved significantly and also indicates Passenger Traffic and Port Harcourt, adding that in Lagos a practices in order to meet international standards. that the federal government is doing well in There has been growing air passenger traffic new terminal needs to be constructed and the It was after these conditions were met that improving the airport facilities in Nigeria. both for local and international travels. Consider- existing MMA1 (General Aviation Terminal NCAA, in accordance to the International Civil He said the government should go further ing Nigeria’s huge population, industry observers (GAT) international terminal decommissioned. Aviation Organisation (ICAO) regulations, and provide landing facilities at the airports always argued that although passenger traffic “The Ministry aims to develop Nigeria’s certified the two airports. under FAAN management so that airlines could is growing but not as fast as it ought to be major commercial airports and surrounding The certification upped the rating of the operate into these airports late in the night, and that is because not many Nigerians can communities into efficient, profitable, self- Murtala Muhammed International Airport, remarking that this would enable airlines to afford to travel by air. But over the years the sustaining, commercial hubs which will create Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe International operate their airlines for longer hours, provide airport facilities have experienced passenger more jobs and develop local industries,” the Airport, Abuja in Africa, as the Lagos, which is longer service to travellers and generate more over capacity due to passenger growth and report said. the fifth busiest airport is projected to become revenue to FAAN. lack of corresponding expansion of terminal It also disclosed that the federal government a major hub in West and Central Africa. He also said the FAAN should do everything facilities. of Nigeria would like to use the PPP (Public, With the certification of these airports, possible to build website for each of its inter- Some of the airports affected included the Private Partnership) model to leverage private Nigeria’s rating has not only improved but national airports so that people could access ones in Lagos, Abuja, Kano, Enugu, Owerri, sector participation and foreign investment to these airports can serve as hubs in West and them from all over the world, noting that the Port Harcourt and Benin. achieve the upgrade and development of new Central Africa because of the international international airports are only included in the FAAN started expanding terminal facilities infrastructure at these airports in the fastest recognition. website of the agency’s international airports, in these airports and others and awarded the and most cost-effective manner. The then Director General of the Nigerian but each should have its own website. building of new terminals at the international On the scope of the project, the report said Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the late “The award indicates that ACI African Region airports in Lagos, Abuja, Enugu, Kano and it fits well within the scope of the Ministry Captain Muhtar Usman, said Nigeria had has been monitoring the improvement of the Port Harcourt. and the ICRC (Infrastructure Concession become the only country in Africa to have airport and kudos should go to the federal FAAN’s record of passenger traffic in the last Regulatory Commission) and would help its two airports certified in accordance to government, FAAN and the management of 17 years, from 1999 to 2016, showed progressive Nigeria to reach its objective in terms of air ICAO safety standard and the only country Abuja airport. increase of passenger traffic every year. transport: developing and profitably managing in West Africa sub-region with internationally “The award speaks volumes on how far the In 2016, total passenger traffic in all the customer-centric airport facilities for safe, secure certified airports. airport has improved. If we can receive such airports managed by FAAN was 14, 361, 587, and efficient carriage of passengers and goods The late Usman said the certification had respected accolade now that the airport is still while it was slightly lower in 2017 to 13, 704, at world-class standards of quality. improved the rating of the two airports in work in progressive, we should expect more 215, it rose to 16, 371, 674 in 2018 and 17, 580, safety standards in the international aviation global recognition when the federal government 023 in 2019. Taking up the Challenge circles and would attract more global carriers must have achieved its multimodal transport The federal government has also projected But the federal government has always had to the country, which would boost air transport system. The Abuja airport stands out in every that the major international airports: the Murtala the intention to concession the airports since the and create more jobs for the citizenry. aspect of airport development. Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), last 15 years but in 2012, government decided He hinted then that this would reposition “However, FAAN still has a lot of work to Lagos, the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, that instead of going through the concession air transport to contribute more to the GDP of do. Abuja airport has not been linked to its Abuja, the Mallam Aminu Kano International process, it adopted the policy of rehabilitating the country because it would boost passenger own website. In this period of information Airport, Kano and the Port Harcourt International the airports, known as airport renewal and then movement in domestic and international technology, the airport should be accessed Airport, Omagwa would be processing about signed the contract with the Chinese Exim bank destinations, as passenger movement was by anyone who wants to know more about 55 million passengers by 2048. to borrow money to build the new terminals expected to double from over 15 million per it from any part of the world. You can easily This was the projection made by the Outline at the international airport, in addition to the annum in the next 15 years. access the domestic airport terminal managed by Business Case Report for the concession of the international terminal facility at the Akanu “It is also interesting to note that with the Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL) four major airports, titled, Nigeria Four Airports Ibiam International Airport, which project is certification of Abuja airport, Nigeria has become in Lagos, known as MMA2. The Abuja airport PPP and made available by the Ministry of nearing completion. the first state to achieve the certification of remains our best so far,” Adam said. Aviation. The plan to concession the airports, which more than one international airport in the Industry observers said that the award to The report said the forecast of total traffic gave impetus to the report quoted above is AFI (Africa/Indian) Region. However, we are Abuja should serve as incentive for government for the four airports in Nigeria is expected government’s solution to obsolete airport facilities not resting on our oars, as the certification of to sustain the tempo of infrastructural improve- to grow on average at 5.3 per cent over the but labour unions have always descried the Kano, Port Harcourt and Enugu airports are ment of the airports so that they would meet next 30 years, from 11 million passengers in decision to concession the airports, alleging scheduled for completion in compliance with international standards in terms of security, 2017 to 55 million by 2048. spurious intentions and insincerity in the the Abuja Ministerial declaration and safety safety, critical facilities like toilets, Internet access The report attributed the growth to the concession plan and emphasised that FAAN targets of 2012,” he had said. and easy passenger facilitation. strong population growth and affluence of could effectively manage the airports if given The then Managing Director of FAAN, Saleh Stakeholders also called on FAAN to establish this population, so government is expected free hands by the Ministry of Aviation to do so. Dunoma reiterated the agency’s commitment elaborate transit facility at the Abuja airport to provide sufficient capacity to handle this to continue with the present tempo in the to enhance regional and sub-regional flight amount of forecast traffic. Airport Certification development of the other international airports operations, where passengers would stay and Progress report on the international airports “We made a commitment to continue with connect international flights from the airport. THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ 27

BUSINESSWORLD NEWS PIB as Panacea to Oil industry’s Ills? Adewale Ajayi

Introduction he Petroleum Industry Bill 2020 (PIB or the Bill) is an omnibus Bill, which seeks to “provide legal, governance, regulatory and Tfiscal framework for the Nigerian petroleum industry, the development of host communities and for related matters.” The Bill appears to be gaining traction after more than 20 years. It will, upon enactment, completely overhaul the regulatory and fiscal framework guiding Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. Specifically, it will repeal the Petroleum Act, Petroleum Profits Tax (PPT) Act, Deep Offshore and Inland Basin Production Sharing Contracts Act as amended (DOIBPSCA), and several other laws which currently govern the industry. However, there are saving provisions for the opera- tors that choose not to convert to the terms contained in the PIB. The hope is that the passage of the Bill will contribute to a significant increase in the effectiveness and transparency of operations in the Nigerian oil and gas industry and generate increased foreign interest and, in turn, investment. The Bill may be enacted into law before the end of the second quarter of 2021 based on the various comments by the leadership of the National Assembly. However, one lingering question is whether the Bill they deal with any operational mat- change of mindset, establishment question, therefore, is what guaran- will be the silver bullet that will cure ter without setting up any fund for of strong performance culture and tees are there in the PIB to ensure the ills in the Nigeria’s oil industry. it) and fiscal provisions in the draft institutionalization of good corporate that these provisions are imple- This article will review this ques- PIB, therefore, need to be addressed. governance and best practices. The mented to the letter? Consequently, tion and propose recommendations Currently, some operators are placing earlier the government reduces its all the stakeholders (including the for addressing the issues arising bets on Botswana, Zimbabwe and holding in the company, the quicker media and civic society organiza- therefrom. Mozambique. We must not allow it will be for it become profitable. tions) in the industry have a big role this to happen if we must succeed. 4. Continued relevance of Niger to play in monitoring transparency Issues Arising 2) Dual Regulators – The PIB Delta Development Commission and compliance with the law. 1) Attraction of investment into the provides for the establishment of the (NDDC) – The major objective of the 6. Separate companies for mid- Oil and gas Industry – According Upstream Regulatory Commission NDDC is to ensure that the ‘sums stream/downstream operations – The to the Nigerian Capital Importation and the Midstream/Downstream received from the allocation of the PIB requires upstream companies Report just released by the National Regulatory Authority. The argu- Federation Account for tackling to incorporate separate entities for Bureau of Statistics, the total capital ments for the dual regulators are ecological problems arising from midstream/downstream activities – imported into the country in 2020 hinged on the need to reduce the the exploration of oil minerals This will trigger significant issues was $9.68billion. Out of this, $53.51 span of control of one regulator and in the Niger Delta area’ are ef- for existing operators, especially million or 0.55 per cent was in focus on the midstream/downstream fectively administered and managed. with respect to viability of current respect of oil and gas. Certainly, and not just on extraction. While However, just like its predecessor, projects, transfer of assets/liabilities, Nigeria requires significant invest- these arguments cannot be faulted; the Oil Mineral Producing Areas transfer of staff and related obliga- ment for the industry to grow. The however, it is important that the Commission (OMPADEC), the NDDC tions, compliance costs, transfer pric- country’s ambition has been, for a benefits outweigh the cost, given appears to have failed in discharging ing issues. This provision, therefore, long time, to increase production to the associated cost of running two its statutory responsibility. Despite needs to be revisited. The Bill may 4million barrels per day and grow regulators. the existence of the NDDC and consider grandfathering existing reserves to 40 billion barrels. To 3. Incorporation of NNPC - The the Ministry of Niger Delta, the projects or those projects in respect achieve these twin ambitions, we Bill provides for the registration oil operators continue to sign and of which Final investment Decisions need significant inflow of invest- of NNPC limited within 6 months implement Global Memoranda of may be taken before the coming ments. However, the concern has of the enactment of the enabling Understanding (GMoU) with their into force of the PIB. Alternatively, been that Nigeria is not an attractive Act. At incorporation, the Ministry host communities to facilitate seam- the government may consider ring investment destination for the oil of Finance will hold the shares of less operations and the sustained fencing those operations without and gas sector given the challenges NNPC Limited on behalf of the development of the Niger Delta. the requirement for incorporating facing the industry globally and Nigerian government. The shares of Though the GMoU has achieved separate entities. the need for scarce capital to go to the Company will only be transfer- relative success, it has its drawbacks. places where the return on capital is able subject to government approval, Consequently, the PIB provides Conclusion more competitive. and in an open, transparent and for the establishment of the Host While it important to pass the Oil is not good for any country if competitive bidding process. The Community Fund to which opera- PIB speedily, it is equally important it remains unproduced. There are PIB provides for the appointment tors will contribute 2.5 per cent of that the National Assembly do reports that oil demand will grow of 2 non-executive directors though their operating costs incurred in the not just pass any bill. Whatever in the next 10-20 years and remain the President will appoint the entire preceding year. So, the question is worth doing is certainly worth flat thereafter as a result of climate members of the Board while the is should the operators continue to doing well. Consequently, the change, cheaper energy storage costs, Company remains wholly owned contribute 3% of their annual budget proposal that the PIB be passed ‘as cheaper renewable sources and green by Government. Thereafter, the to NDDC? Will the contribution to is’ and then amended subsequently hydrogen. It is, therefore, imperative composition of the Board shall be in the host community be deducted through the annual Finance Acts that Nigeria do whatever is neces- accordance with the provisions of from the NDDC contribution? Is the should not be the way to go. Both sary to produce its reserves more the Companies and Allied Matters NDDC itself relevant given that the the Government/National Assembly profitably. Act and its Articles of Association. proposed arrangement in the PIB and industry operators should It is also important that the 2020 NNPC Limited will take ownership will better address the problems in engage an independent consulting PIB (or is it 2021 since we are now in of rights to gas and petroleum the area? Firm to evaluate the issues and 2021?) address most (if not all) of the production (including joint ventures) 5. Discretionary allocation and concerns raised by the operators concerns of the industry operators to under the arrangements undertaken mandatory relinquishment – The and the need to boost oil revenue make the Nigerian oil and gas indus- by NNPC prior to the effective date. Petroleum Act contains provisions while enhancing competitiveness. try more attractive for investors. The One question that has surfaced discouraging discretionary alloca- This will greatly help to narrow concerns raised with respect to the is whether the mere incorporation tion while encouraging mandatory the differences and enhance trans- regulatory (mainly voluntary conver- of NNPC Limited will make it relinquishment of oil blocks. Similar parency and trust between both sion terms of existing licences and profitable and comparable to leading provisions are in the PIB. However, parties. the requirement to set up an environ- national companies such as Equinor, the issue is not what the law says mental remediation fund in respect Petronas and Saudi Aramco. The but implementing the provisions of -Ajayi is the Partner & Head of environmental issues arising from resounding answer to this question is the law. This has been the major Tax Energy and Managed Services operations. This matter can easily be NO, given what we know of NNPC. problem facing successive adminis- KPMG in Nigeria. He can be reached dealt with by the operators just like There needs to be a wholesale trations in the country. The relevant via @walesj1967) 28 FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 •THISDAY

A LETTER TO MY BELOVED HUSBAND, HIGH CHIEF (DR.) O. B. LULU-BRIGGS, OON, DCF, DSSRS

you passed into glory that fateful day at Kotoka International Airport Clinic. I should be involved in your burial plans in line with your wishes; that my The false and fake news was also published in the Nigeria media. It was dis- representatives and those of our four younger children should be part of the graceful and unwarranted. process; and that Dumo gives a binding unconditional undertaking that I would not be harmed during the burial.

Accordingly, the report of your autopsy was released. It ruled out any foul INTERVENTION BY H.E. GOVERNOR NYESOM play in your death. However, I was deeply saddened by the public release of WIKE all the health challenges you faced but handled with grace, never allowing On August 18, 2019, His Excellency Governor Nyesom Wike, Executive Gov- any to keep you from living an active, full, purposeful and productive life un- ernor of Rivers State invited me and Dumo to a meeting with the intention til December 27, 2018. of paving the way for your burial. He went straight to the heart of the matter by asking what was causing the delay and the drama. Dumo was not coy Significantly, the result of the autopsy removed a major impediment to your at all- he said he wanted 50% of Moni Pulo Limited, MPL. The Governor ap- burial arrangements. Dumo had opposed your early burial by falsely claim- pealed to me to make a sacrifice so that the matter could be resolved. I re- ing that he was not satisfied with the manner of your death. The autopsy stated my position on Dumo’s demands which is that I would not negotiate was part of the investigation and the result appears to have put that process against your wishes. However, as the matriarch of the family, I said I would in abeyance. gift 50% of my shares in MPL to all of our seven children not just to Dumo. The Governor was pleased with my response and asked us to go away and On February 25, 2020, Dumo illegally removed your body from Transitions work out the modalities. Funeral Home to an unknown location contrary to the ruling of the High Court of Ghana. He did so without meeting any of the ruling’s other condi- Dumo and I held two very emotional meetings. He appealed to me to hand tions which would have ensured participation of all your family members over custody of your body to him. I agreed, on condition that the body including me in planning for your burial. A spokesperson for Dumo even would remain in Transitions Place until time of your burial. He also request- claimed the body was in Port Harcourt. But in the light of the half-truths and ed that our lawyers should meet in Port Harcourt to draw up a settlement lies that had punctuated the propaganda against me since you passed into agreement. I reminded him that I was not negotiating against your wishes, glory, it is hard to know what to believe. and it would not be necessary. I asked him to call a meeting with his siblings so I could formally notify all of them of my decision to gift 50% of my MPL The general expectation was that this de- shares to all of them and agree on burial dates and plans. He objected, stat- velopment would lead to an announce- ing that he was not aware that I had any shares in MPL to gift them! ment of a burial date and plans to actual- At a third meeting on ize it. This did not happen. September 20, 2019, Subsequently, we held another meeting with Governor Wike on September 13, 2019, during which I said I did not trust Dumo and I would not hand over My dearly departed husband, it would the Governor asked your body to him until it was being removed for your burial. Governor Wike interest you to know I still have your in- me to set aside your asked me if I would hand over the body to his Chief of Staff to bring it for a ternational passport and the permits re- Will and share your State burial, to which I gratefully consented. quired to bring your body from Ghana to Nigeria for burial. As I write this letter, assets with your three At a third meeting on September 20, 2019, the Governor asked me to set I have no idea where your body is or how elder sons who you aside your Will and share your assets with your three elder sons who you it was smuggled into Nigeria if in fact it had excluded from had excluded from your Will. He asked my lawyers to take me aside and is your body Dumo intends to bury on persuade me. Of course, I refused - how can I interfere with your Last Will March 13, 2021. I have made my concern your Will. and Testament? The meeting was adjourned with the agreement that both known to the King of Abonnema who in sides would forward their proposals to the Attorney General who would call a meeting directed Dumo to tell me and a meeting to bridge any gaps. his siblings where your body is so that we can view it ahead of the burial. Dumo has refused to yield the committee’s The requests in Dumo’s proposal were outrageous. He wanted your wishes decision. as laid out in your Last Will and Testament, including your inter vivos gifts and my personal businesses set aside and that he would redistribute your For more than two years, Dumo and his supporters have publicly and falsely assets as he deemed appropriate. accused me of keeping your body away and of frustrating his efforts to have a quick burial for you – even as a police petition that Dumo’s lawyers wrote By now Dumo’s attack had been extended to family, friends and associates. accused me of planning a quick burial for you! Unfortunately many people Some of our other children’s friends received threatening phone calls. My bought into these untruths. They did not understand that Dumo, “took cus- Chief of Staff and Moni Pulo’s Head of Community Relations and Adminis- tody of your father’s mortal remains you deliberately held back not only to tration were warned via anonymous callers to distance themselves from me pursue chieftaincy titles for self-aggrandizement but also to challenge his or else they would lose their lives. One of my camera men was threatened, Last Will and Testament in court and with the bitterness resulting from your offered money to work against me and had his home burgled and his CPU failed court action you called the press conference to announce the burial stolen. date, just to play to the gallery and not real intention to give your father a befitting burial.” (Chief Ferdinand Ngogo Alabraba, February 23, 2021). He The most disturbing action during this period was a brazen assassination also decided, “to exclude your dad’s widow and his daughter from the burial attempt on one of my senior staff. I thank God for his faithfulness and grace plans thus denying them the right to perform their customary roles to hon- that no lives were lost. All these incidences were reported to the police but our him in death.” (Chief Ferdinand Ngogo Alabraba, February 23, 2021). we are yet to receive any feedback on their investigations. Finally, I want you to know my dear husband that I have been excluded by Dumo and his cohorts from being part of the planning and execution of ATTEMPT TO HAVE FALSE CHARGES BROUGHT your funeral, contrary to the first wish in your Last Will and Testament which AGAINST ME is now a public document. As 2019 drew to a close, I was intimated that a case had been filed against me at the High Court, Abuja. There were no charges yet but a warrant for The storm is heavy no doubt but I am not sinking but standing by the Grace my arrest was imminent following moves made by Dumo as part of his sus- of God, tained plot to persecute and discredit me. Following a series of high-level meetings I submitted fact-based petitions to the concerned authorities and I remain your loving devoted wife till you departed. Adieu. I was able to quash the devious conspiracy. Dr. (Mrs.) Seinye Lulu-Briggs Sombreiro House, Port Harcourt. WAITING FOR THE BURIAL In several landmark rulings, from the High Court to the Supreme Court of Ghana, it was ordered that the result of the autopsy performed on your body be released. Contrary to Dumo’s demand, the courts also ordered that 4 NEWS METRO WEEKLY MAGAZINE THISLIFE THIS ART WEEKEND ENTERTAINMENT

Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi [email protected] WEEKEND 07010510430 2021 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: #CHOOSETOCHALLENGE

Adesayo Adelowo: On a Mission to Empower Women 30 THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ COVER 2021 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: #CHOOSETOCHALLENGE Adesayo Adelowo: On a Mission to Empower Women

Dr. Adesayo Adelowo, a survivor of childhood neglect and trauma, has been on a mission to empower women and girls for over two decades through teaching, providing practical tools, imparting knowledge, while sharing her experience, strength, and hope. As the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Fragrance of Influence, an organisation set up to prepare women for life through education, mentoring and coaching, her vision is to support 500 African girl-children to attain education while also creating as many life skills courses as possible to empower women at all levels. MARY NNAH reports

or the Chief Executive “Empowering women will ensure their Officer and Founder of full and effective participation and equal Fragrance of Influence, opportunities for leadership at all levels Dr. Adesayo Adelowo, of decision- making in political, economic her life goal is simple- to and public. It is important to have gender empower women and girls equality and women’s empowerment Fat all levels. As a survivor of childhood and the full realisation of human rights neglect and trauma, she passionately for women and girls as it impacts on a uses her voice to speak to women and transformative and multiplier effect on girls to identify who they are and stay sustainable development and is a driver connected to God so they can be all that of economic growth in all nations.” God has called them to become. Vision Purpose to Influence On her vision and measures put in Fully loaded with good ideals, strength place to attain it, she said: “My vision is over adversity, and imperfections turned to support five thousand girls who are into benefits, her passion to equip teen- from disadvantaged backgrounds in their age girls and women to become powerful, education. The support could be in the productive and maximise their potentials form of scholarships and of education in informed her decision to organise “The socio-emotional and life skills needed to purpose to influence virtual women confer- navigate and adapt to a changing world ence’. The vision of the conference is to and make decisions about their own lives. help women become aware and draw on I believe in holistic education for girls. It is reserve of strength, courage, creativity and shocking to know that in many countries, resilience that may lay dormant in them among girls who do enter primary school, and invigorate their courage to connect to only a small portion will reach and far fewer their purpose to influence. will complete secondary school. “Girls’ education goes beyond getting Motivation for Fragrance of Influence girls into school. It is also about ensuring On the defining experience or motiva- that girls learn and feel safe while in school; tion for founding Fragrance of Influence, have the opportunity to complete all levels Adelowo noted that “when we are born, of education acquiring the knowledge and our voice is the first sign of life. We enter skills to compete in the labour market; learn this world hardwired to communicate the socio-emotional and life skills neces- through our voices. It’s as natural as sary to navigate and adapt to a changing breathing, I assume for some more than world; make decisions about their own others. Somewhere along the line, many lives; and contribute to their communities women become quieter and silenced as and the world. a result of negative experiences caused “The question is, how many education by discrimination, marginalisation and institutes guarantee this holistic perspec- oppression of all kinds. tive, very few of course and if there are “In a culture that celebrates distraction any, it would be at an enormous cost to the over focus, women’s identity becomes a Dr. Adelowo and husband, Pastor David Adelowo child’s parents. The big goal would be to product of imposed cultural and social develop a purpose to influence school for process and political relations. Their of Influence and coupled with the fact that with the neediest and the most vulnerable girls by 2030 and provide a fully funded identity brings the possibility of being growing up I saw my mother pushing back people, especially women, so I willingly education for girls from disadvantaged discouraged and frowned upon because and resisting the dominant patriarchal voice. give myself so that other women may be backgrounds. This will transform the they are deviants from the prevalent and “I am a product of a strong, assertive, empowered; hence the birth of Fragrance lives of 5,000 girls through a fully funded, acceptable form (the male child). though quiet woman who strongly believed of Influence and its related services.” wrap-around, boarding school education. “Personally, I have experienced how in the best for a girl child, I am strongly I am convinced that girls deserve the op- women are allowed only to maximise their inclined that women are not inferior to their Why Women Should be Empowered portunities. The more girls are helped to potential, so far it does not challenge nor male counterparts, I believe that women Sharing why she strongly believes that become leaders and role models, the better violate the norm. Women are powerless, have all it takes to live a fulfilled life only it is important to ensure that women and off our society will be. Transformed by defined, delineated, captured, understood, if they are given the chance to do this. girls are empowered, Adelowo noted that the power of an excellent education, these explained, and diagnosed using the scale “Also, the passion to found fragrance of “it is important so as to end all forms of girls will become the mothers, achievers of the norm, patriarchy. influence stemmed from master’s in social discrimination against all women and girls and change agents. “So, it becomes a matter of production work in 1997, there were two specialty that everywhere. In most cultures, women are “How will I attain this goal? I believe over purpose and noise over listening, I was attracted to, Women development considered second class citizens, the weak, in the power of vision, if I can see it, I can because of these errors and evil committed and medical social work, although I opted dependent, frivolous, seductive, and fool- have it, further to this, I am collaborat- against women, many women find their for Medical social work because at that ish one. They are thought particularly to ing with some individual, non- for-profit voice lost, compromised, and even ridiculed. time I was working in a medical setting, be incapable of foresight and to lack the organization to harness resources for this “However, women are made in the image my heart was for women development, capacity to make and carry through sensible goal. I will be partnering with the World of God to reign and rule over the earth and during my training my worldviews became and realistic plans. Bank, UN women and other international God blessed them and command them to challenged as I learnt about the possibilities “Women and girls suffer all forms of organisations to realise these goals.” be fruitful, multiply and replenish upon that I could achieve as a social worker. I violence in the public and private spheres, the earth, unfortunately, the society has its realised that I possess an amazing array including trafficking and sexual and other Communication Channel y own inferior mandate for women, there are of abilities that I can use to advocate and types of exploitation and harmful practices, Delving into various ways she has been many contradictory voices to the voice of serve women by allowing them to gain such as child, early and forced marriage communicating with women and how God, unfortunately most women have been and understand the importance of human and female genital mutilation. effective that has been, the coach said: robbed of the strength to challenge these relationships, dignity, and self-worth. As a “However, women can be powerful agents “I believe women are uniquely formed. contradictory voices, rather they succumb social worker I give voice to the voiceless, of change. In this light it is pertinent that According to Max Lucado “You weren’t an u to listening to such voices, making it hard power to the powerless and help to the ensuring women’s and girls’ human rights accident. You weren’t mass produced. You to hear and trust their own. helpless. is fully realised and their empowerment are not an assembly-line product. You were “These thoughts and experiences in- With this understanding, I decide that have a transformative and multiplier effect formed my passion to found Fragrance social work is a tool for me to spend time on sustainable development. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ 31 COVER 2021 INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: #CHOOSETOCHALLENGE ADESAYO ADELOWO: ON A MISSION TO EMPOWER WOMEN deliberately planned, specifically gifted, and lovingly positioned on the earth by the Master Craftsman.” “ I communicate this truth to women through lectures both physical and virtual, secular, and church conferences, social media platforms, and I have published two books on Fragrance of Influence as it relates to women and leadership. It has been effective because I have seen women’s lives being transformed as they embrace the truth that they are on earth on a purpose and they have the mandate to design their desired lives.”

Foundation Sharing a bit about her foundation she said: “I come from a family where my father thought I did not count because I am a girl child, I did not have emotional support from my father. He was not interested in my wellbeing at all. I felt neglected by him most of the time and I felt trauma because I could not understand why he was not accepting of me because of my gender. “When I turned 16, these were days of trials and darkness. As I mentioned earlier, I had passed enough subjects at O Level to gain admission in to a university but because, I did not apply for JAMB, I had to find something to do before the next JAMB exams, but my father had a differ- ent plan for me, firstly, he advised that I should go to Grade Two Teaching college, because that is what one of my uncles and cousin did, I didn’t even see any sense in that suggestion, so I did not consider it, Dr. Adelowo and family after that he was able to find employment at Broadcasting company as Zealand was career development which Motherhood is a gift to the world by God, understand women’s roles in the world, a radio broadcaster, oh mine! that was a could be realised through educational a gift that has birthed, shaped and still drawing attention to the unpaid work very elegant job then in 1985, but because achievement. shaping many generations.” still disproportionately done by women. I knew his plans for me was just to get rid “While the most significant stressor Unpaid domestic and care work falls dis- of me, I declined the offer. spoken about by the women was missing Focus proportionately on women, restraining “Why did I decline the offer? you may home and the losses associated with it. The On the gains of the past two decades and their economic potential as the COVID-19 want to know, I remember that when my most significant coping strategy the women areas women need to focus on changing in pandemic additionally affects women’s jobs sister completed high school, my father used is communalism. The outcome of this the decades ahead, she posited that “for and livelihoods. was able to find a job at The National post research confirms that African women are millennia, women endured inequality, “Although women are increasingly seek- office, Akure for her, and after a short while, resilient and highly focused; this helped discrimination, and violence in relative ing to become policymakers themselves, he found a man who was genuinely in love me understand the nature of the support silence. Issues affecting half the human they still lag behind men in elected positions. with her, and my sister got married at 20. that is helpful for them.” population went neglected by predomi- Twenty-five years since the adoption of I am sure that was my father’s plan, start nantly male policymakers, historians, the Beijing Declaration and Platform for work as a broadcaster, work for a while Life as an Author artists, and leaders. But recently, because Action, progress towards equal power and and get married, sincerely, marriage did As an author, Adelowo said: “I have of technologies, women have been able to equal rights for women remains elusive. not appeal to me at that stage, and I did published two books namely… The Fra- share their experiences more widely than No country has achieved gender equality. not want anyone to sabotage my journey, grance of Influence, one of the few books ever before, anger over these injustices “Women continue to be underrepresented so I turned down his offer, left home, I did written purposely to inspire women of this began to smoulder and then ignite. in the fields of science, technology, engi- not know where I was going but it felt like generation. It so beautifully illustrates how “Some years back, girls were not consid- neering, and mathematics, representing I had to run for my life, so I did. God can use anyone for His plans and how ered worthy of continuing their education only slightly more than 35% of the world’s “A positive experience for me was when we, especially women, can fight our fears, but were rather sent off for early marriage, STEM graduates. Women are also a minor- I got married I have two girls who are influence other women positively, and bring that has changed drastically, now, there ity in scientific research and development, accepted and nurtured by my parents in glory to God. are women with college degrees, working making up less than a third of the world’s love, it was like a dream having given birth “Through this book, I have helped the and succeeding and leading. Now, more researchers.” to my girls and I watched how my husband women folk to see that there is more to young girls are given the opportunities to celebrated and nurtured them. them than just getting married and rais- grow and learn. Advice “Another sad unforgettable episode ing children. The woman was given the “Previously, in some countries, women On her advice to young women aspiring was when I heard that my cousin passed same Dominion Mandate that the man was were not outspoken about gender-based for a fulfilling life, she charged them to in her sleep because she had concussion, given, hence she is meant to bring glory violence and domestic abuse. With more constantly focus their attention on the things apparently, she had suffered brain damage and pleasure to her Creator – God – by awareness, we see today women coming that are significant to them, especially on because of physical violence and abuse excelling in academics, ministry, career, forward and taking the future in their the values upon which they want to build from her husband, indeed, and it was so business, or whatever sphere of influence own hands. their life, adding that “the characteristics difficult for me to grapple with.” she finds herself. “As women’s voices rise into a of the person you desire to be, and the “This book also shows us, through the global chorus, they are not only mark that you feel most called to make. For Doctoral Studies Bible and contemporary days, women addressing gender-based violence. a woman to live a fulfilling life, she has to On her research about how women have who exercised their God-given dominion They are also rejecting centuries of be aware of her identity, that is, who she is to adjust to the new society they immigrated to positively influence the lives of people stigma – calling for an end to period and whose she is, and draw on reserves of to, she said: “ and society at large. Hence, no woman shame, for better access to feminine gold in form of strength, courage, creativity, I completed my doctoral studies in should live less than who she was created hygiene supplies, and for better data and resilience that has been deposited in 2021 exploring the adjustment of African to be - The Fragrance of Influence. on long-neglected women’s health her and invigorate her courage to maximise women living in New Zealand: A Narra- “The Fragrance of Motherhood is the issues, like post-partum depression her potential and the influence the world. tive Study! This research uses a narrative story of mothers and girls. It’s about their and gynaecological disorders. These “The whole world must accept that women method based on Africentric philosophy radiance, potentials and winning streaks changes have been accompanied by a have the mandate to reign and rule and and a unique storytelling tradition that as they rely on their God-given abilities. rise in the status of women and girls. It is that leadership is not necessarily a result reflects the beliefs, values, and ritual of Motherhood is golden! The fragrance of important for women to work and earn of inherent birth traits in the personality African people to understand the experi- Motherhood is conspicuous in all aspects money so that they can meet their own and nature of the individual, nor to be ence of the African immigrant women as of life. needs and help cover household expenses. reserved for men because men naturally it relates to their psychological adjustment “The woman in all her essence and beauty, “Around the world, women need to be were more fit to rule and lead, instead, to New Zealand. gifted with the womb and incubator of empowered to take on roles that were once women and men are, and should be leaders “The research found that the main pur- nations, without which the mandate to be beyond reach. Feminist economics should because God created humankind to lead pose for African women to migrate to New fruitful and multiply would be impossible. work harder to reshape how policymakers and rule”. ͱͰ THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ NEWS Ashimolowo Moves to Boost Vaccine Amstel Malta Celebrates Uptake in BAME Community International Women’s Day ˾ÏÍÙÑØÓÝÏÝÓØÍÜÏÎÓÌÖÏáÙ×ÏØÝ×ËÝÒÓØÑÝÞÏÜÏÙÞãÚÏÝÓØÞÒÏÓÜÚÜÙÐÏÝÝÓÙØÝ

Stories by Mary Nnah ever, there is an increasing need to use our platforms to change social stereotypes that In commemoration of Inter- negatively affect women”. national Women’s Day, Nige- “For us at Amstel Malta, we ria’s leading malt brand, Amstel are indeed proud to be using Malta, released a docu-series our voice to amplify the voices spotlighting three trailblazing of all women, most especially, women who are excelling in the women who have dared male-dominated industries. to excel in male-dominated The video followed the lives industries. We are passionate of Uju Udoka, a painter and not just about nourishing the founder of the ‘Grab a brush, Amstel Malta Celebrates International Women’s Day bodies but also the minds of Ashimolowo Color a Life’ Initiative; Sandra young Nigerians and showing Uso Prince-Ekwueme, a me- sexist stereotypes and having However, they are optimistic them that nothing is impossible As parts of efforts to tackle low COVID-19 vaccine uptake chanic and Cynthia Egbunam, to prove themselves when bid- that more women would break as long as you can dream it.” among Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) groups, a talented barber, providing ding for jobs alongside male through limitations and come Through innovative brand Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, head of KICC has inaugurated a platform for them to share counterparts. Some others into the realisation of their true campaigns, Amstel Malta a Vaccination and Immunisation Committee. their challenges, aspirations and stated that they had clients who potential. Speaking on the cam- continues to inspire the next The committee is as an independent expert advisory group hopes for the young Nigerian did not want to entrust them paign, Brand Manager, Amstel generation of Nigerian women to spearhead community efforts in encouraging the BAME girl or woman. with work as a result of societal Malta, Onyinye Elochukwu, while igniting positive change community to take the vaccine. These women revealed that roadblocks that paint women said, “Society is constantly within the society and the na- A press statement released by the church said Pastor Ashi- their biggest challenge was as weak and feeble-minded. evolving. Now more than tion at large. molowo was saddened by a report released by the Royal Col- lege of GP’s which reportedly claimed that vaccine uptake was extremely low within the BAME community at just about two per cent compared to the total vaccinated population. MMS WoFHoF Lauds Nigerian Women Ranking on While reiterating the fact that the church has not endorsed any particular medication or vaccine, the statement emphasised that it was only concerned about dispelling the myths about Global Economic Opportunity Index the vaccine. MMS Woman of Fortune Hall According to the statement, “the committee consisted of of Fame (WoFHoF) Initiative has medical experts and specialists on the matter from within the commended Nigeria’s rating KICC global church community. on Economic Participation “As a Global Ministry we believe in providing our members, and Opportunities gap with and those who follow our ministry, with accurate and balanced the nation ranked 38th in the information that will help inform their decisions on critical life world, closing the gap by 73.8 matters such as vaccinations. per cent since 2018. “We firmly believe that vaccination may be the single most The non-profit organisation important health-promoting initiative available to mankind. made this commendation We believe in the effectiveness of vaccines to prevent serious during a press briefing and illness and to save lives. road-walk to mark the 2021 International Women’s Day ‘Trust, Commitment, Total Satisfaction of (IWD). Reeling out these statis- tics in her speech, the Executive Customers Imperative for Business Growth Secretary of MMS WoFHoF MMS WoFHoF participants at the event Trust, consistent commitment to the total wellbeing of custom- Initiative, Mrs. Ifeoma Iloh used ers, total satisfaction of clients are imperative for the growth data from the World Economic women compared to other di- senior positions (30.3 per cent).” Shipping (NCS), Mrs. Obiageli of any business. Forum’s (WEF) 2020 Global mensions of the index which Commenting on the effect Obi, lamented that women This among others was canvassed by the Managing Direc- Gender Gap Report (GGGR). are: Educational attainment, of insecurity on women, she have been victims of gross tor of ATCOHOMES, Mr. Triumph-Abatan Oluwayomi, while While the data indicates that Health and Survival, Political stated that the trend of abduc- unemployment and hunger speaking to some journalists in Lagos recently. “no country to date has yet empowerment.” tion and kidnapping of girls will as the foremost effects of the According to Oluwayomi who is also the president/founder achieved full gender parity “Nigeria ranks 27th in Africa discourage school enrolment COVID-19 pandemic. of Arrow Leadership Development Foundation (ALDEF), aside “ and will not be attained for and 128th in the world with a for the girl-child, She said, “Some women from selling land, the company is interested in the happiness the next 99.5 years in some score of 63.5 per cent. Mean- “At the last count, 279 have lost their husbands and and fulfilment of clients when buying from them. countries, Iloh said that it isn’t while, the country has closed secondary school students become breadwinners, fend- “I often tell the staff that we are not in business because of the a coincidence that nations that 73.8 per cent of its Economic were abducted from a school ing for four or more children profit mainly but rather to service everyone God will direct our have sustained their economies Participation and Opportunities in Jangebe town in Zamfara, since the pandemic. The path to buy from us. Our goal is service and not gains. during the COVID-19 pandemic gap to date (38th globally) and with psychological trauma impact of this COVID-19 has “That is the reason we energetically drive ‘Reality to a wealthier have done so by closing their is one of the most improved inflicted on them.” varied from one individual to life!’ mandate of ATCOHOMES. We are unique in the way and gender inequality gaps. countries globally on this aspect She, therefore, challenged another but the end product manner we go about our business. We believe business is not a According to her, this sug- since 2018 (almost eight per cent Nigerian women to raise their has been unemployment and do or die thing but a do and live matter, hence profit and gains gests that there is a correlation points better than last edition).” voices with actions against lack of finances.” The former do not drive us”, he noted. between sustainable economy, “Average annual incomes the trend. Also speaking on Director General of NCS also Oluwayomi stressed further that, “Consultant commission institutional building and are estimated to be close to the theme: “The Future is Fe- urged the federal government structure is best to none in the industry especially with those gender parity. $6300 for men and $4600 for male” which was drawn from to target a percentage of its with the same years with us, we build houses that our customers “On the global gender women. In terms of occupa- the global theme “Women In COVID-19 intervention fund are glad to live in because we build as if we are living in them gap index rankings, Nigeria tions, women represent a higher Leadership : Achieving An towards women, noting that the ourselves. performs relatively better in share of skilled professionals Equal Future In A COVID-19 palliatives already exist in the offering comparable economic than men (64.6 per cent), but World”, a former Director Gen- Northern part of the country opportunities to both men and a significantly lower share of eral of Nigerian Chamber of but it should be nationwide. Int’l Women’s Day: Iluyomade Tasks African Women on Poverty Aspira Nigeria Gets Government’s Commendation Raheem Akingbolu Kano State Governor, Dr. decade ago, has continued to their brands and the capacity and high factory standards The Convener of Arise Women, Dr Siju Iluyomade, has urged Abdullahi Umar Ganduje expand its operations, introduc- of the company in the state. that were implemented by women around the world particularly Africans to stand up has applauded Aspira Nigeria ing a new range of health- care “We have gone round and the management. against the scourge of poverty that has bedevilled the human Limited, towards the develop- products that serves the need we have seen that they are Chairman of the company, and social economic growth of Nigeria as well as the continent. ment of Kano State as a mega of the populace while creating producing various products, Alhaji Haruna Ahmadu Dan- In a statement to encourage women and commemorate the commercial centre in Nigeria. employment opportunities for ranging from detergents to zago appreciated Governor 2021 International Women’s Day with the theme ‘Choose To The governor, who gave the many residents. soaps, to even the toothpaste Ganduje and his administra- Challenge’, Iluyomade pointed out that “gender inequality commendation during an of- “We have been taken round that would soon be commis- tion for providing an enabling is one of the problems that face every developing country ficial visit to the company site to see their products and from sioned. So, we thank this environment for businesses to in the 21st century and globally. It is also a major cause of to commission the new plant the information they gave us, company for producing more thrive in the state. unemployment in Nigeria”. recently, also appreciated the they have employed so far in and more here in Kano.” He stressed that the progress She stated that the latest data released on unemployment company for its immense con- this company more than 5000 Ganduje observed further recorded by the company over in Nigeria by the National Bureau of Statistics indicated that tributions in the employment youths from Kano State and that the firm has made Kano the years would not have been women ranked the highest when it comes to unemployment. of thousands of job seekers in from all over the country. Even the real commercial nerve attained without the benefit of “The discrimination against women remains a common the state. foreigners are being employed centre of not only Nigeria, the numerous private sector occurrence today and serves to hinder economic prosperity,” The governor observed with in this company”, Ganduje said. but also of the West Africa friendly policies of the state she noted. delight that Aspira Nigeria The governor who observed countries that do businesses government. She noted that various indicators suggest that poverty is Limited has been serving as a that the company enjoys with it. The governor and He also observed that the a major obstacle to Nigeria’s socio-economic development, catalyst for economic growth peace and stability in Kano his entourage, were taken company has been enjoying a adding that poverty has persisted and several interventions in the state. State, noted, “The peace and on a facility tour of the com- very cordial relationship with have failed to yield significant improvement in Nigeria’s Hu- The company which began stability in the state is what has pany, who at the end of it its immediate community and man Development Index even in periods of economic growth. operations in Nigeria about a encouraged them to expand was impressed at the quality with the people of Kano State. THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ 33 MUSIC SHOWBIZ E-TRENDS …Your weekly entertainment delight NOLLYWOOD Burna for the Grammy? Stories by Vanessa Obioha in the Best Music Video category, Academy revealed that it will pay Nigerians are hoping that history equally fetching Wizkid a spot in tribute to the independent venues, will be made on Sunday, March 14, that category. “which have been greatly impacted when the 63rd Grammy Awards finally For the 2021 Grammys, Burna Boy by the pandemic. From bartenders takes place. They are betting on Burna will be performing at the premiere to box office managers, those who Boy, the towering self-proclaimed ceremony which precedes the main work day-to-day at the Troubadour ‘African Giant’ to bring home the ceremony. The Recording Academy (Los Angeles), The Hotel Café (Los coveted gramophone for Best Global during the week announced the long Angeles), the Apollo Theater (New Music Album. This year marked the list of artists who will perform at York City), and The Station Inn second time the afro-fusion singer music’s grandest stage. They include (Nashville) will present various is nominated in the newly renamed Bad Bunny who recently made ap- categories throughout the night.” category. Last year, he lost to Beninese pearances on WWE Monday Night The Daily Show host and come- luminary singer Angelique Kidjo. Raw where he serves as a friend and dian Trevor Noah will compère the Since 2018, Burna has been riding supporter of his fellow countryman ceremony which will have a limited the crest of a wave of international Burna Boy and wrestler Damian Priest; Cardi audience in attendance and involve popularity. He has shown consistency B, Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa, Doja Cat, five stages of the same size and shape, in maintaining his position as the head Burna secured another nomination Shankar; and the Malian band Chris Martin, among others. four of which are for performances of the table in afro sounds, churning this year for his ‘Twice As Tall’ album. Tinariwen. Earlier scheduled for January 31, the and one of which is for presenters, out hits, bagging international col- His contenders include Antibalas, The singer also shares a nomina- Grammy Awards was shifted to March, according to executive producer Ben laborations, and even launching a new an American Afrobeat band that is tion with American singer Beyoncé partly because of COVID, and due Winston. The ceremony will take place style collection in partnership with modelled after Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s whose ‘Black is King’ visual album to the political tension that gripped in Los Angeles and will be televised the UK-based global online retailer Africa 70 band; Brazilian-American is nominated in the Best Music Film the United States following the 2020 on CBS Television Network. It will boohooMAN. His popularity streak singer Bebel Gilberto; British-Indian category. Beyoncé’s ‘Brown Skin Girl’ presidential elections. also be available to stream live and is yet to fade. sitar player and composer Anoushka hit featuring Wizkid is nominated In a press release, the Recording on-demand on Paramount+.

MTV Base Celebrates Impact on African Culture Let the Singing Begin

From Sunday, March 14, fans of Fans of the show can also watch Nigerian Idol can catch all the fun that on MultiChoice online streaming took place during the audition period service Showmax which will also for the sixth season of the singing reality be available in the United Kingdom, show. Italy, France, Australia and 23 other MultiChoice Nigeria has dedicated countries where the service operates. DStv channel 198 and GOtv channel 29 Popular media IK Osakioduwa for all the drama and hilarious moments will be hosting this season while from the audition, leading to the live Obi Asika, Seyi Shay and DJ Sose shows that will kick off on March 28 will serve as judges on the show. on Africa Magic Showcase, Urban and Bigi is the official sponsor of this Family channels. season. “She’s a Boss” to Debut Exclusively on Ogélle this Weekend

Folu Storms, Nenny B & Ehiz

Over the past two decades, MTV like Davido, Wizkid, Yemi Alade, and sexual health, relationships, family issues, Base has graced the African continent many others regularly sharing award and more recently, mental health, has with entertaining and educating content, stages and collaborating with their global served as a voice for the expression ranging from hit songs, fun TV shows, counterparts - a feat many would have of important issues that affect many thought-provoking series, impact led termed ‘dreamy’ back in 2005. However, young people today. The channel has initiatives and exciting competitions. the MAMAs are not the only way MTV provided a safe space to have striking With two different feeds catering to South Base showcases African talent. Scheduled conversations which would otherwise be Africa and the rest of Africa, the network broadcasts such as MVP, Official Naija termed “abominable” within the African has invested heavily in ensuring that Top 10, Word on the Street, Base Real societal context. African music and culture retain their Talk, 100% Naija, Down South, and East The show has educated African youths pride of place and achieves increased Side, have carefully cultivated artistes’ on issues ranging from HIV, safe sex and global visibility. career opportunities and a spotlight teen pregnancy in an entertaining way. In solidarity with the positive rave of Speaking from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Seamlessly transitioning from one through live interviews, talk shows It also touches on maternal and child the International women’s day celebration, the Founder, and CEO of Ogéllé, Osita channel to a series of on-air and off-air like Behind The Story, entertainment health, family planning, gender-based which amplifies and prompt the global Oparaugo said, “We are excited about platforms that have greatly influenced news, and more. violence, and women empowerment. recognition of the socio-economic and releasing the show “She’s A Boss” and Africa’s youth culture, MTV Base has MTV base also has a knack to showcase Notwithstanding its educational cultural importance of women in the will not relent in celebrating women positioned itself as more than just a the beauty of African culture through drive, MTV Base has provided society, driving their aim for equity in regardless of class and status, who are content house for regular urban music initiatives that support the development an avenue for young, talented the entire human community, “She’s making huge differences in our societies, and authentically African storytelling. of young creatives for the industry. One actors to blossom – creating stars A Boss” a television show that brings especially those who don’t even know or As it marks its annual Base Day of such initiatives was the upskilling and like Olumide Oworu, Jemima to reality the other side of the African see themselves as bosses. We will extend celebration, a look back at how the training provided to music videographers Osunde, Rahama Sadau, Adebukola woman’s story from various fronts, this show until so many women in Africa entertainment brand has continued to to improve their visual and production Oladipupo, to name a few. Even will debut on Ogéllé, Africa’s pioneer are celebrated and their stories told” spotlight the impact of its innovations quality to international standards. Nigeria’s vocal queen, Tiwa Savage, and leading Pan African video sharing Anto Lecky, the anchor of “She’s and promotion of African culture. The network boasts a team of visionar- cut her acting teeth by appearing platform, this Friday, March 12. a Boss” expressed her excitement in Back in 2005 when the network ies, creatives and fan-favourite trendsetters in the MTV Shuga series. This show aims to feature conventional leading such an inspiring show that started operations in Africa, Nigerian who advance the African culture through It’s been almost two decades of and unconventional bosses, the woman will explore our collective and kindred artiste 2Face Idibia’s hit song, ‘African the channel. These individuals dubbed providing incredible support and who owns 10 shops in Lagos Island or spirit as Africans, through the stories of Queen’, was the rave of the moment. the ‘Culture Squad’, have paved the way elevation for Africa’s music industry Accra Ghana, the bank MD or Chief both the urban and rural woman, and The song’s music video was the first ever for African talents to showcase their and culture. Through a combination Executive Officer of a multimillion or the difference women are making in to air on MTV Base Africa, achieving distinct originality on a bigger stage by of grit, tenacity, and determination, dollar company, as well as the woman contemporary Africa. a record-breaking 1.3 million views on highlighting how they are influencing the channel’s influence in Africa who sells the best local delicacies in Lagos, “I’m so excited about this show! I am the first screening. cultural shifts, setting trends and leading has continued to intensify. Though etc. “She’s a Boss” is unique because it a proud African woman and I want the Likewise, the MTV Africa Music the conversation through an inclusive, there are still several grounds to hinges on inclusivity as it showcases the world to know just how great African Awards (MAMAs), has served as a yet diverse content portfolio. break and numerous opportunities diverse roles and responsibilities women women truly are. We have heard stories platform for Africa’s music talents to The network’s popular coming-of-age to uncover, the network is committed undertake daily in the course of life, and of leading CEOs, but I’m particularly rise from a place of national relevance series ‘MTV Shuga’ which follows the to showcasing a reimagined Africa to its impact on their lives, their families, interested in sharing the stories of women to international prominence, with artistes lives of young friends as they navigate the world. and society. who aren’t often celebrated. 34 THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ  Balancing Gender Equity amidst Global Health Inequities Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu first time numerous open and honest discussions these preventable deaths are from LMICs. have been held amongst all the stakeholders Within a year of the first reported case of Regardless of our experiences, education, or – women-focused civil society, the council of COVID-19, we celebrated the amazing develop- abilities, the patriarchal nature of society in LMICs, Ulamas, law enforcement agencies, legal bodies, ment and approval of the vaccine. Indeed this is fosters the perception that women are less qualified and the office of the First Lady. Myths around a milestone success in global health. Nigerians and less competent. Culturally, rural women in the hitherto taboo subject are being debunked also celebrated the arrival of 4M doses, for our LMICs form the bulk of the population- over and we are speaking to mindsets. Using Covid population of 250million. One wonders how the 80 per cent in Nigeria. These rural women are compliant town hall meetings and webinars, health authorities will ensure a fair distribution more vulnerable to multiple forms of develop- rural outreaches, mainstream and social media; that allows people of different sex, means and ment imbalances such as low education, closely we have been conversing with the set attitudes backgrounds to access the limited vaccine. linked to poorer health outcomes, all forms of of the people- men and women inclusive. We are While the COVID-19 vaccine offers the brightest violence, lack of access to credit facilities and low slowly teaching women and young schoolgirls hope of ending a pandemic that has dramatically financial empowerment. The average participation their worth and urging them to dare, and chal- impacted the world, we must intensify efforts of women in politics in Nigeria has remained 6.7 lenge negative norms and have the confidence towards a world free of other health challenges per cent in both elective and appointive positions, to say NO. like cervical cancer, through the HPV vaccine. As which is far below the Global Average of 22.5 COVID-19 and the lockdown also magnified we build back our economies, we must adopt a per cent, Africa Regional Average of 23.4 percent systemic inequities that have long been perpetu- synergy between COVID-19 and cervical cancer and West African Sub Regional Average of 15 ated by barriers in access to quality healthcare, elimination plans. It is my ardent hope that with per cent. - (National Bureau of Statistics-NBS, especially in Low to Middle-Income Countries. In the inequities exposed through the COVID-19 Abuja, Nigeria. 1999-2015). Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu January 2021, WHO issued a call to all countries pandemic, more priorities and opportunities to International Women’s Day usually on March to work together in solidarity – and in each of ameliorate are given to female economies. 8, is a day set aside to applaud and recognise the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. their best interests – to ensure that within the A post COVID19 world cannot afford to leave progress made in achieving equality for women. The women of , like others in first 100 days of the year, vaccination of health women behind. Now more than ever, emerging It is also a day to consider the challenges which Nigeria, are mostly on subsistence income and workers and older people was underway in all economies needs the immeasurable contributions remain and are yet to be conquered, and the suffered greatly in the lockdown. Fortunately, countries. It is encouraging to see the growing that women are capable of making. Nigerian gaps that are yet to be closed if we are to achieve many female-centric programs of the govern- movement behind #VaccinEquity. women are resilient and capable leaders in equality for both men and women. Building on ment of H.E. Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu As an ardent advocate of eliminating cervical all spheres of the society be it in the political, this year’s International Women’s Day theme: ameliorated this. Grants and aid were made cancer, Vaccine inequality is one I have dealt with professional, or academic. What we greatly lack ‘Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future available to women in the state. Perhaps by in my campaign to include HPV Vaccine in the is the OPPORTUNITY. We are therefore grateful in a COVID-19 world’, It highlights how women far, the greatest achievement for the women of Nigerian routine immunisation schedule. It is yet for days like the IWD, that allows us to amplify can be equal partners in decision-making processes, Kebbi State was the governors submission of to happen due to long waiting queues populated the call. especially those regarding policymaking. This two protective laws on GBV - VAPP and Child by high income countries where girls as well as year, the need of the hour is to highlight the Protection Acts to the state House of Assembly boys get the vaccine routinely. Each year, over t%S4IJOLBm#BHVEV 'JSTU-BEZPG,FCCJ tremendous efforts by women and girls around for their considerations and passage into law. 500,000 women, who are the sole sufferers of 4UBUF JTB$POTVMUBOU1BFEJBUSJDJBOBOE'PVOEFS  the world in shaping a more equal future and Although the laws are yet to be passed, for the cervical cancer continue to die. 80 per cent of .FEJDBJE$BODFS'PVOEBUJPO Smart City Sweden Supports Waste Management Project in Karu,

The Government of Sweden to the Swedish Government for this to a clear improvement in grated systems and recycled conditions of the citizens. and Beacon Energy Develop- has through its export platform supporting what is the first PPP citizens’ lives and the achieve- as district heating, electricity, We are very excited and look ment Services Limited. KIWMC Smart City Sweden, approved Project in Nasarawa State under ment of other key development biogas, biofertiliser and ma- forward to working with the will operate a plastic recycling financing support to the Karu a new robust PPP Framework. outcomes. terials. Different treatment Beacon Energy Consortium plant in Karu designed to re- Waste Management Project in “With the involvement of Senior Advisor at Beacon methods are used depending on this project.” cycle post-consumer plastics Nasarawa State. Sweden, we are assured of a Energy Development Services, on the nature of the waste so as Interim CEO of the Karu into resin pellets. The proposed project aims landmark project which aligns Dr. Lazarus Angbazo stated: to make it possible to use the Integrated Waste Manage- KIWMC also intends to to reduce the amount of waste with the State’s development “This is a major milestone for waste as a resource. ment Company (KIWMC), expand into material recy- destined for land filling and agenda. Hopefully, this will us, and we really appreciate the Head of Business Devel- Obiora Okoye stated: “We are cling facility that can process dumping within Karu by become a case study for other Government of Sweden and opment Group at Smart City very excited about the support a broader range of municipal the recovery and conversion recycling and waste to energy the entire team at Smart City Sweden, Östen Ekengren from Sweden which comes solid waste such as paper, of recyclable materials into projects across the region”. Sweden for this contribution, stated: “Sweden has a long following the completion of wood, metal and glass and useful products including Nasarawa State under the which confirms Sweden’s history as a pioneer in issues the Technical Audit of the conversion of waste to energy. energy through the application leadership of Engr. Sule has continued commitment to relating to the environment and Karu Recycling Plant. The participating partners of state-of-the-art technologies been very deliberate about supporting initiatives that sustainable development in a “The funding support include Beacon Energy Devel- and best practices. stimulating its economy, build- sustainably address climate, broader sense. will provide us a better un- opment Services (BEDS), an Specifically, the funds would ing people’s human capacities, energy and environmental “We believe the Karu Waste- derstanding of the market indigenous company involved be used to co-finance the and creating wealth and jobs issues. We look forward to a to-Energy Project not only has opportunity and the design in development, financing, Project’s Feasibility Study. The for them. stronger bigger partnership the potential to significantly options for our larger recy- operation and services within study is led by WSP Sweden This is the basis of the Gov- in the future.” improve the waste manage- cling and Waste-to-Energy the power, oil & gas, and sus- and supported by the local ernor’s Nasarawa Economic Sweden has extensive and ment system in Nasarawa project.” tainable infrastructure sectors. firm, Natural Eco Capital Development Strategy (NEDS) efficient waste management State and the North-Central Karu Integrated Waste Man- Nasarawa State signed a con- Limited. founded on a vision to sustain systems in place with over 99 region of Nigeria, but also agement Company (KIWMC) is cession agreement with Beacon Nasarawa State Governor, accelerated growth of the Na- per cent of all household waste reduce the climate impact a Special Purpose Company, es- Energy for the development of His Excellency Engr. Abdullahi sarawa economy driven by the being recycled or recovered. from the waste management tablished under a PPP between the Waste to Energy Project in A. Sule expressed appreciation private sector and translating Their waste is treated in inte- sector and enhance the living Nasarawa State Government October 2020. UBA Upgrades Digital Banking to Deliver First Rate Services to Customers Chiemelie Ezeobi and a more amazing graphical attention to details was put into behavioural insight for our also been built with the best- speak to the specific country interface, just as it has another the new mobile app. customers and working around in-purchase security features where it is being used as the To deliver first rate services never-been-seen before feature According to him, the new this to address the real needs of and has been modelled ap- new mobile app runs concur- to its millions of customers where it blurs your account UBA Mobile App is “your our customers using the Omni propriately to ensure that rently in the 20 countries of in Africa and even potential balance when you cover your personal finance manager channel platform and running all the features are working UBA’s operation interacting subscribers, the United Bank for phone’s censor. built with a distinctive user on our open digital platform, properly to secure transactions in the different languages Africa (UBA) Plc, has upgraded Armed with benefits and interface that will change the which is very interactive and maximally. “It is also important and cultures in line with the its digital banking services. features designed to give its face of banking. armed with lifestyle services. to mention that the bank took specific needs and regulation Offering banking services to customers increased control “With this app, we are It is sleek and trendy with into consideration the virtually of the country in focus. more than 20 million customers and accessibility to carry out reimagining banking as our seamless user interface.” impaired, and thus has used “This all-encompassing plat- across 1,000 business offices transactions with ease, UBA engagement has moved from On the security features of voice recognition as a channel form which boasts of a new user and customer touch points in Digital Banking Group Head, being channel-based to being the app, UBA’s Group Chief for transaction which suits both interface because of its sleek, 20 African countries, according Kayode Ishola, said the app platform-based. Information Officer, Onyebuchi convenience and the visually modern nature of delivering to the pan African bank, the has been tailor-made to give “The speed of the platform Akosa, said the new platform impaired customers.” seamless experience across upgrade which came in form customers what they want, how has been made to match the will revolutionise the way Head, UBA SME Banking, several devics; can be used as of a new mobile banking app, is and in the way they want it. He speed of light as we have cut banking services are offered Sampson Aneke, on his part a budgeting tool, loan applica- set to change the face of digital made this disclosure during a down significantly on the as it will deliver increased noted that the app has been tion and also allows customers banking services. virtual press parlay with both number of processes expected personalised banking via a created with a high-level of view their expenses according A total upgrade from the local and international media, to carry out your transactions. watertight and highly-effective intelligence because it can work to their various categories such former app, it has new features adding that a lot of investment “Interestingly, we have security system. based on frequent transactions. as the amount spent on data including four amazing themes in cutting edge technology and worked towards creating He said: “The new app has He added that “it can also within a particular period. THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ 35

ART WEEKEND…For pure art enthusiasts Art Community Stood for Eddie Aderinokun The art community in Lagos joined the family of the poet, journalist, sports promoter and music connoisseur, Otunba Edward ‘Eddie’ Kolawole Aderinokun in paying tributes at his funeral. Yinka Olatunbosun reports Many who were present at the funeral of in Daily Times. But we were good friends. Eddie Aderinokun might have been oblivious He was in Apongbon; I was in Kakawa,’’ to the fact that the late poet was born on July he said as he drew parallels between their 13, a date that has been registered as the career in journalism where they both got birthday of the Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole promoted to the position of Deputy Editors Soyinka. Often, the art community would at about the same time. migrate to Ijegba forest to mark the occasion His son, Segun Aderinokun, who had to that has become known as the Wole Soyinka endure the pain of losing his father on his International Cultural Exchange (WSICE). birthday paid his tribute in an emotion-laden But last Friday when Aderinokun was laid voice. to rest, the art community stood for him “Daddy shared many life lessons with us. with poetry performances and tributes in Daddy calls me ‘my prophet or my pastor.’’ an event that was both physical and virtual. He was always quick to celebrate our wins, Some of his children and grandchildren however little,’’ he said. who joined the ceremony virtually were Another son, Olumide Aderinokun captured clad in the powder-blue garb, sitting re- the persona of late poet in his heartfelt tribute. spectfully in their various homes while the “He was a spontaneous father,’’ he said while event progressed. Poetry performances by recounting all the dangerous night journeys AJ Dagga Tolar and Akeem Lasisi added he had been with his father. some life to the sober gathering marked by Aderinokun was known to have founded physical distancing of the masked guests. Nigeria’s first pop-rock group known as The late poet was remembered for playing Clusters in the late 60s when highlife was host to the Lagos Chapter of the Associa- the leading music genre in Nigeria. His first tion of Nigerian Authors (ANA) for several published collection of poems, Ebony on years when their monthly meetings were Snow was followed by another collection held at his Surulere home. He was known Dance of the Vulture in 1990. Others include to be very hospitable, offering food and Indigo Tears: A Travel Diary of Afrika in drinks to authors at the meetings during Eddie Aderinokun Verse (1992), Dark Days are Here (1995), the formative stage. His impact was also Milestones: A Poetic Odyssey (1995) Merid- felt in the field of journalism as recounted journalist, Chief Olusegun Osoba in a short “I don’t know how to start this tribute. We ian Hour: History in Poetry (1998) amongst by the former Governor of and light-hearted tribute to Aderinokun. were rivals. He was in Daily Express; I was others. Ken Nwadiogbu Stages First US Solo Exhibition The Play ‘Ghosting’ Set for Lagos

Yinka Olatunbosun Premiere

Ken Nwadiogbu, the Future Award Africa winner for Visual and Applied Art in 2019 has made a debut show in the US. For three weeks beginning from March 6 to 27, Nwadiogbu makes his debut US solo exhibition at the highly-reputed Thinkspace Projects space located in Los Angeles’ West Adams District. With an eye for fresh talents such as Nwadiogbu, the LA-based gal- lery has been at the of the showcase of new contemporary art movement. This connects them with an enlightened US art audience com- prising curators, collectors, enthusiast and scholars among others. In October 2019, Nwadiogbu’s simi- lar debut in the UK at The Brick Lane Gallery, East London attracted a room full of new audience who went home with a remarkable first impression of his artistic expression. The sold-out show tagged “Contemporealism” featured 25 original works. At Thinkspace Projects, Nwadiogbu interrogates contemporary social- culture issues from his worldview Nwadiogbu’s works with about twenty new hyperrealist works. He investigates representa- became my way of exploring, evaluat- Nwadiogbu is an incredible talent tion through a focal-point of eyes as a ing, interrogating, and challenging and his story will help to also tell A scene from Ghosting means of discovering and revelation. socio-political structures and issues Nigeria’s story.” By recreating his own realities as within the society.’ Nwadiogbu, a graduate of Civil Yinka Olatunbosun of seven other performers in Nigeria. a young Nigerian, his work projects He continues, “I believe that the and Environmental Engineering Ghosting is a solo piece with many the experiences encountered by black eye is a window into the being of any at the University of Lagos, Nigeria images shot in Lagos and Berlin. The lives around the globe. Nwadiogbu human and as such, make it a constant divided his time between his canvas Ghosting, a theatre-film production result is a 35-minute long theatre-film invokes a humanist connection to the symbol in my latest body of work. The and his notebooks to hone his skills. by Footprints of David, Nigeria and about being together and abandoned, ongoing issues of police brutality, focal point of my art is on black lives; The self-taught 25-year old artist Monster Truck, Germany is set to pre- about digital bad conscience, teenage racism, xenophobia, culture conflict recreating my experiences and those pivoted on a strand of hyperrealism miere at the Seaside Cottage Theatre, conflict avoidance and transcontinen- and shock. Working with charcoal encountered by the people around match with contemporary art which Bariga on March 20. Ghosting was tal power games. and acrylic he creates a hyperrealist me such as police brutality, lingering he calls ‘Contemporealism.’ He was inspired by the traumatic experience Monster Truck was founded by narrative that demands socio-political racism, xenophobia, culture conflict named by Guardian Life as one of the of the Covid-19 pandemic that broke students of Applied Theatre Studies thought and discourse, bringing the and shock. Working with charcoal most “Outstanding Personalities of almost every connection in everyday in Giessen and works with a changing ideology full circle by emphasizing and acrylic on canvas, I am able to 2019” and awarded the 2019 Future human relationship. cast in the areas of theatre, perfor- an understanding that we are more invoke empathy in the viewer forcing Award Prize for Visual and Applied Funded by the Berlin Senate De- mance and visual arts. Meanwhile, alike than different. socio-political thoughts and discourse, Arts in recognition of his contributions partment for Culture and Europe as Footprints of David is the children’s Social realities influence Nwa- and making them aware enough to to the arts. well as the Performing Arts Fund, this branch of Segun Adefila’s Crown diogbu’s work as he explores identity, respond to social developments. He has featured in local, interna- theatre-film experiment tells personal Troupe. It was founded in 2005 by politics and the human form to raise While reflecting on the gallery’s tional group exhibitions and fairs stories of individual character with Oluwaseun Awobajo with the goal these issues. relationship with the artist, Andrew including Art X Lagos, Insanity, It’s not a new string of creativity. of changing the way people view “My love for drawing faces of Hosner, the curator and co-owner Furniture, Finding your Identity, Ar- A production of two continents, children from the ghetto. Awobajo everyday people through ripped of Thinkspace Projects said, “We’ve tyrama Art Exhibition, Empowerment it breeds spirituality rather than started the theatre with four children paper was born from a need to known Ken for a couple years now Exhibition, Generation Y, Moniker an absenteeism of physical touch. from the neighbourhood but at the mo- identify Africans in major global and it is an honor to provide a platform Art Fair, Afriuture, LAX-SFO, In the The lead character, Sahar Rahimi is ment, scores of children have enrolled contexts. These juxtaposed pieces for his debut U.S. solo exhibition. Making, LAX-MSY amongst others. a layer of masked alter-egos of her at the facility. imagination entrenched in the soul 36 THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ

 From Feather to Vice Chancellor: Random Notes on Yemi Akinwumi

Tunde Olusunle keeping our minds academically active. I close touch, especially since my family lived recall Yemi once asked me: “Your parents in Ilorin. he reception hall of Id- are comfortable, you suffer no lack in school, Yemi continued to make waves as a bud- rinana Hotel in Lokoja, why would you be interested in this sum- ding scholar in the academia. As I moved the capital, mer school exercise?” He found an answer from Lagos to Lokoja and back to Lagos on had most probably himself when he said: “Well, I think it is several professional duties, we never lost never received the part of grooming by your parents, which is touch. Even as I found myself in Abuja and he number and quality very good.” The summer school project also went abroad, we remained in close contact. of guests it hosted on helped parents whose wards participated On his invitation, my wife and I were Monday February 15, in the summer schools, keep them out of his guests in Berlin in 2004. At that time, 2021. It was a colourful array of dignitaries harm’s way within the period. he was at the Ethonogie Freie Universitat fromT all facets of life. Don’t be mistaken, Yemi was not a strait- in Germany. With his Nigerian friend and The royal contingent was led by the Obaro jacket bookworm. Higher institutions in our compatriot, Victor Ngwu, they made our of Kabba and Chairman of the Okun Tradi- days, encouraged extracurricular activities. stay very memorable. tional Council, Oba Solomon Dele Owoniyi Education then was beyond class work, in Professor Akinwumi has served his ap- and the Olu Adde of Ekinrin Adde, Oba the effort to build the man and his mind. prenticeship very well and honed his skills Anthony Bamigbaye Idowu. From the Apart from belonging to associations im- for his new assignment. Under the leader- academia were scholars like Professor Su- mediately related to our courses of study, ship of renowned academic and university leiman Bala Mohammed, Vice Chancellor Prof Yemi Akinwumi, VC, Federal University Lokoja other clubs and societies made the whole administrator, Prof Adamu Baikie as Vice the Nasarawa State University; Professor educational process a holistic grooming Chancellor of the Nasarawa State University, Yakubu Ochefu, former Vice Chancellor of successful entrepreneur on the Lagos busi- exercise. Students belonged to the “Historical he returned to Nigeria early 2005 and became Kwararafa University; Professor Gbenga ness scene) and Bisola Oluwole (a notable Society”; the “English Readers Association”; the first substantive Head of the Department Ibileye of the Federal University of Lokoja woman businesswoman in Lagos) among the “Performing Arts Students’ Association”, of History, from 2005 to 2007. He also served and Professor Eugene Aliegba also of the others, were also admitted by direct entry into and so on. At the same time, the “Rotaract as the Deputy Dean, Faculty of Arts from Nasarawa State University. Prof Kola Olo- the same programme. We never knew each Club”; the “Jaycees”; “Firepoint” (an un- 2005 to 2006 and substantive Dean of the runleke of the Michael Ajasin University; other before our meeting at the University derground campus newsletter), and many same faculty from 2006 to 2010. In 2009, he Dr Tivlumun Nyitse of Bingham University, of Ilorin, but together we went through the more, flourished. emerged Chairman of the Committee of Deans Karu; Dr Toba Olusunle, Managing Director motions of registration and familiarisation Yemi Akinwumi and I belonged to the and Directors of the institution, and Senate of the Engineering Materials Development with our new environment. “Palmwine Drinkers Club”, an assemblage of representative in the Governing Council. In Institute, Dr Bode Oshadare of the Kogi State As we shuttled between our various faculty jolly, fun loving students. Oludare Olajubu, 2017, he was appointed Director, Institute of University, and many other scholars were blocks, departments, student union building, a professor of Yoruba Studies and Linguis- Governance and Development Studies, and in attendance. porters’ lodges and cafeteria, we met and made tics in our time, was one of the pioneers of he became the Dean of School of Postgraduate Other dignitaries included Maj Gen Julius new friends who enthusiastically wanted to the Club in his days as a student, decades Studies. His last assignment before his recent Olakunle Oshanupin, former Commander, put us through our acculturation processes. back. In the parlance of the Club, he was an appointment, was Deputy Vice Chancellor, Brigade of Guards in The Presidency; Barr As students of English, we had to study “archival Fellow.” The University of Ilorin Academics at the Nasarawa State University. Tunde Bello, former Solicitor-General of Kogi Linguistics as “first minor”, also known as chapter of the club at the time was called From his early days in Nasarawa State State; Dr Carolyn Ezeokeke, a Director in elective, elsewhere. You could choose a second “Ilya Du Ilorin.” Members greeted themselves University, he began a robust students’ ex- the National Commission for Museums and minor from a broad array of other subjects, in a particular way by locking their index change programme between the university Monuments; Hon Positive Ihiabe, a former but I opted for History, having studied it for fingers together and rubbing their thumbs and German institutions. My family and I Member of the House of Representatives; Dr my higher school certificate. against one another. Non-members were were privileged on one occasion to play host Femi Ajisafe, a former General Manager at From banters, handshakes, laughs and saluted with regular handshakes and called in our Abuja abode to Akinwumi and his the National Inland Waterways Authority; similar asides before or after our lectures, “quantity surveyors” because they were not visitors from Germany. He also has never Mr Biodun Olorunleke, a former Director from strolling together to our hostels and to the entitled to the Palmwine Drinkers special spared any opportunity to encourage his with the National Youth Service Corps, and library, we cultivated new friendships which mode of greeting. They evolved their own friends and associates in foreign institutions Mr Sanya Ajakaiye, a former Director in the have withstood the test of time. Tivlumun conversational lingo, a curious corruption who desired to have their sabbatical in Ni- National Assembly Service Commission. Nyitse (a former Permanent Secretary in of phrases in English, French and whatever geria, to make Nasarawa State University The event was a reception for the Vice Chan- ); Tunji Bamishigbin (a renowned was the prominent language in the immedi- their first stop. cellor of the Federal University of Lokoja, movie maker and actor); Mopah Aileku (a ate community of club. Palmwine Drinkers Indeed, in every position he found himself, Professor Olayemi Durotimi Akinwumi, who civil servant); Jide Owojaiye ( who recently were recognized by their green caps and Akinwumi leveraged external support for the assumed office earlier that day. He replaced retired from the teaching service commission milk-coloured tops, which combination was Nasarawa State University Keffi, in several Professor Angela Freeman Miri who had in Kogi State); referred to as the “regalia.” They announced ways. Some structures and monuments in the served out her five year term in office. and Yemi Akinwumi, among others, were their programmes, known as “gyrations” by institution today, came to fruition, courtesy Back in December 2020, the Governing our new friends. They had been in the uni- initiates, with rhythmic drumming, singing of his extensive contacts and relationships Council of the University under the leader- versity a year earlier as 100 Level students, and dancing on the campus. with people. He equally facilitated book ship of Senator Chris Adighije, had approved and so, they were, to borrow the common Akinwumi ascended the hierarchy of the gifts for the university library, from several the appointment of Professor Akinwumi to lingo, “sons of the soil.” Club to become the “Feather.” Feather in foreign sources. the position. He was adjudged to have been As students taking courses in History, we this sense, was a pseudonym for Secretary. He has won several international and head over shoulders above all the other 80 were taught by scholars and intellectuals Writing in primordial times was done by national academic laurels, notably: the contestants for the position, from universities like the late Prof Ade Mobain Obayemi (who dipping the tip of a bird’s feather in an ink Professor Ali Mazrui academic award for and institutions across the country. also once served as Director General of the bottle. It was his responsibility as the feather Academic Excellence in Kenya; the Stellen- According to Senator Adighije, the selection National Commission for Museums and therefore, to keep the records of activities of bosch Institute of Advanced Study Award process was so rigorous that the 81 applicants, Monuments); Dr (now Professor) Hakeem the club and to serve notices of meetings. in South Africa; the prestigious Alexander were initially scaled down to 20. Thereafter, Olumide Danmole; Dr A.S. Adebola; Dr S.J. In 1985, we both graduated and proceeded von Humboldt Award in Germany and the the list was further pruned down to three Watts, among others. Akinwumi was not for the mandatory one year National Youth Universitat Zurich Nord-Sud-Kooperation names. Two independent external assessors only punctual and regular in class, he had Service Corps, NYSC. And as though Award in Switzerland. He has also received were also invited to ensure openness, fairness a way of taking down in his notebooks, any by mutual consent, we found ourselves the European Research Award in University and transparency in the selection process. and everything that was said by any lecturer. back in the University of Ilorin for our College, London and the German Deutscher A five-man committee of friends of Akin- It was never surprising therefore, that our masters degree programmes, in 1987. He Akademischer Austauschdiendt, DAAD wumi, notably: Dr Matthew Keyi (former classmates who skipped lectures for any continued with his ambition to become Award, among others. Chairman of Ogori-Magongo local govern- reason, queued in his room in the hostel, to one of Nigeria’s preeminent historians, Akinwumi was National President, ment area in Kogi State); Chief Sola Adedoyin, borrow his books to update theirs. while I also returned to my old depart- Historical Society of Nigeria and has since (a businessman and politician); Femi Ibrahim Beyond the classroom, Akinwumi, Ayeni ment, English. Again, we lived in the same been honoured with the Fellowship of the (a diplomat), Mr Rufus Aiyenigba and this and I lived in the same hostel. Our rooms, ac- hostel, this time the “PG Hall” (PG for society. He is also a Member of the Nigeria writer, had constituted a small group to drive cross the grassy quadrangle in our “F - Block” post graduate), also in the mini-campus Academy of Letters, NALs. the event hosted that night. Except for Aiy- accommodation, was a whistling distance of the institution. Those were days of A tireless scholar and quester for knowl- enigba, all other members of the committee from one another. Together with our other struggle when we would make “eba” edge, he has over 70 publications in national were alumni of the University of Ilorin. friends, we made cat calls and threw jokes and appropriate “geisha” (canned fish and international journals, books and mono- As freshmen in the University of Ilorin about all manner of subjects. We mimicked in tomato sauce), as soup for our meal. graphs, and attended conferences, workshops in 1982, the reception we received from the the verbal mannerisms of our teachers and We would sometimes visit my girlfriend at and seminars in over 30 countries across older students and lecturers was welcom- enjoyed robust cackles from time to time. At the time, who is my wife today, Funimi, and the world. ing and accommodating. I had come in at leisure, the quadrangle became a temporary ask for food. Yemi’s girlfriend at the time, He will be expected to bring his broad- 200 Level, after completing my Cambridge field for “five-a-side” soccer. Toyin, who is also his wife, would sometimes based experience, contacts and affiliations University-moderated higher school cer- Since we both resided in Ilorin, Akinwumi bring us something to eat. across the world, to bear on his assignment as tificate programme at the School of Basic and I made it a point of duty to utilize our Upon the completion of our masters pro- chief executive of the ten year old university. Studies, College of Technology. end-of-session holidays, productively. gramme, I returned to my job as teacher in Born January 20, 1964, he is happily married The likes of Gbenga Ayeni (now a professor We got like-minded friends together and a secondary school in Iddo Oro, about 50 to Mrs Toyin Akinwumi, a civil servant and of communication at the East Connecticut arranged summer lectures for secondary kilometres from Ilorin. Yemi stayed back the union is blessed with beautiful children. State University); Blessing Wikina (who school students. It was not only a way of to continue with his doctorate. In 1990, I retired as Director of Information in Rivers making little stipends for ourselves ahead got a job in the Daily Times, Lagos, so I had t0MVTVOMFIPMETBEPDUPSBUFEFHSFFJO State a few years ago); Dapo Adelegan (a of the new school year, it was also a way of to relocate. Nevertheless, we kept in very NFEJBBSUTGSPNUIF6OJWFSTJUZPG"CVKB THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ 37

POLSCOPE áÓÞÒÎÎãÎÓàáÜÓ ÏÎÎã˛ÙÎÓàáÜÓ̶ÞÒÓÝÎËãÖÓàÏ˛ÍÙט͸΀͸ͽͻ͸;΁ͻͽ; Nigerian Customs Service: Canticles…. What is Aisha Buhari Doing in Dubai? Citadel of Corruption It is a good thing that we had International Women’s Day last Monday. I look forward to more of such opportunities for women hose who are upbeat about the Why? Are you a woman? anti-corruption I stance of the fed- Not exactly. At least on such days, we can eral government be sure to hear from our dear First Lady, Mrs may not have had Aisha Buhari. Or didn’t you hear her speak any experience from Dubai last Monday, condemning the with the Nigerian continuous abduction of students in the North Customs Service. Too often, we west? I am looking forward to hearing from areT carried away with the running her again on Sunday. belief in the public domain that the Nigeria Police Force is the Sunday? Why Sunday? headquarters of corruption. How wrong! Let such persons have a That will be Mothering Sunday. And as the deal with the Nigerian Customs First Lady of the nation and herself a proud and he or she will understand mother, I am sure she will have soothing words that corruption comes in grades for Nigerian mothers. and degrees. Indeed, whoever has a deal with the Nigerian Em, em, eh… Why is she speaking from Customs will or should see the Dubai and not from Aso Rock these days? futility of fighting the malaise Has she relocated to the United Arab called corruption. It is wide and Emirates? deep. A norm! It is interesting to note that Hammed Alii I think she is on holidays. Aisha Buhari among all the revenue generating should be. The importer pays the highway where they harass agencies of the Federal Govern- the duty, and all the many ancil- and harangue motorists? Holidays? What kind of holiday is that? ment, the Nigerian Customs So, when is the First Lady coming back to lary charges as demanded; not Too often, they demand huge Is it Summer or Autumn or Winter holiday? resume her supportive in-house activist role? Service has been verily faithful counting all the dozens of tipping sums from owners of cars whether And for how long is this holiday? in not only meeting its budgetary points where the documents have their Customs papers are genuine How can I Know? Perhaps when election targets, but doing so, most times, to go through for approval. And or not. They annoyingly argue that Why are you firing me these questions? Do I before the end of the third quarter is near, when she’d need to moblise the when all the process is completed, the Clearing Agents may have look like her PA or do I work in the presidency? womenfolk. But I am not sure she’d be of every year. the cars are released. negotiated the duty to be paid What that tells us is that the keen on that this time around, since Mr Then the car owner travels with Customs officials (in what Since you know that she is on holidays, President will not be contesting again. Nigerian Customs is quite a fertile with one f the cars and the they describe as “Compromised you might as well have details of her vaca- field for revenue generation. In- In any case, whatever she wants to do or Customs officials on the High- Duty”—often used for damaged tion. It is a long time that she has not say can be done or said through Tweeter. deed, if it could generate as much way intercept the car, query the cars), and so when the correct du- only been quiet in the public domain, she as N1.6 trillion in the year of the Don’t forget this is a digital age. And the Customs duty paid, and either ties are underpaid, the Highway has not been seen around for quite some First Lady is actively digitalized Pandemic (2020), then it really has go ahead to demand for hefty Customs now demand that either time. And Nigerians are getting worried the capacity to generate even N2 bribes so as to let the car go, or the full payments are made or they that their First lady has been unseen for But some people say that the First Lady trillion if all leakages are blocked. they seize the car altogether, re- are bribed heavily or the car/s get so long, too long. The temptation to argue that hav- actually left the scene because the grip of the gardless of the fact that the Duty seized. That is tyranny! Was it cabal in the government has not loosened, ing generated that humongous demanded by the Customs unit Civil Defence officials that issued She is a private citizen. Nigerians only sum, the agency should be left despite the death of the former Chief of staff, at the points of entry has been the clearance from the Ports as not voted for her husband, Mr President. And . Those who know say she is tired alone, is appreciated. However, paid. The Highway Customs to be respected by the Customs he has been around carrying out his duties some of the acts of Customs are of in-house shoves and pushes, especially as operatives argue that the duty on the Highways? Are there two diligently, even if many of them are done she is not being deferred to by Mr President. indeed inhibitive to economic paid was below what ought to or more Customs operational virtually these days. growth. By no means, I am not have been paid. Pray, whose standards? condemning their eagle eye in I think people should be charitable in fault is that? Perhaps one of the major tasks Yes, she is a private citizen, but she is their comments. Who said she is not being catching and exposing illicit Did the importers determine before Col (retd), the a prominent member of the First Family. and illegal importations like deferred to? Was she not the author of how much they have to pay? Was Comptroller General of Customs She is a public votary in a way. And don’t the recent appointment of Brig Gen Buba arms and drugs or smuggling it not the same Customs that (who refused to wear uniform) forget that all those her aides here and (even though some people argue Marwa as the Chairman of the Nigeria did? If there is an underpay- is to harmonise the operations of there are paid by tax payers’ money. So, Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)? that it is when the importers are ment, should the system, not Customs officials in such a way let me say she is a quasi private citizen unable to “settle” that the case Was it not the Adamawa connection that the importer, be blamed and that any good or consignment was activated? In any case, as the First gets to NTA) . perhaps restructured ? genuinely cleared (emphasis Whether quasi or whatever you call her, Let me cite an example. A Lady, she should be seen and not neces- Are the Highway Customs on genuinely cleared) by any the fact remains that Nigerians did not vote sarily heard. man imports cars from either officials not aware that their unit of the Nigerian Customs for her. She does not owe Nigerians any duty the United States of America, colleagues in the Ports had issued should be respected and thus per se. So if she decides to hibernate in far Canada or other parts of Europe. Stop That. You want a passive First Lady? a clearance for the release of the spared from undue harassment away Dubai, it is within her liberty and right.. Not this one! She is active and articulate and Customs officials do the evalua- car/s? Why do they (Highway from highway Customs officials tion and assessment of the cars. even expressive of her feeling regardless of Customs) have to constitute who just want to drink from the You are talking like a one-way driver. whose ox is gored. It gives what the duty to be paid another illegal clearing points on cup of corruption. Do you not know that the place of a woman is in the abode of her husband? The trouble now is that we do not know And Madam’s husband is in Aso Rock, whether her temporary relocation is a 4.2 Million British Pounds and the Orogun Polytechnic Project what is she doing in the desert land of kind of protest or whether indeed she is Dubai? . Ok, let me ask you: Now that she having a normal rest Last Tuesday, the Attorney But did Mr Malami forget is ensconced in the glitz and grit of Dubai, General of the Federation and that there is a precedence? This is typical busy-body syndrome. How who will be Mr President’s stakeholder in is it your business whether she is having a Minister of Justice, Abubakar Was the money (over Five the ”oza room” , if you know what I mean? Malami announced that it had Million Pounds) stolen by late normal or abnormal rest? You talk about secured the consent of the British governor of , DSP protesting? What would she be protesting? Look, focus on important things. We ae Is she a labour leader government to release the sum Alamyeseigha not returned to struggling with how to contain bandits and of 4.2 million pounds stolen by Bayelsa State government in 2012 wide scale insecurity in the country plus how You do not know. You do not even un- former governor of Delta State, from the same UK government? to bring down inflationary rates, and you are James Ibori. The money was said Where was Malami then? derstand that all that glitters is not gold. here talking about “other room” affairs. By Let me tell you, even in such high places, to have been recovered from But if that is not bad enough, the way, did you hear Mr President complain? friends and family members Mr Malami robs the injustice so much water passes under the bridge. Minister of Justice, Abubakar And until you look closely, you will not of Ibori. Malami on the face of the people of Ahhhhh, He doesn’t have to complain. Malami went ahead to sign an Delta by allocating the money understand the undercurrents. federal money? How can money In any case, even if he complains, would MoU with the British government to projects clearly away from you hear? which insisted that the funds stolen from Delta State treasury Delta. Not even any state in And that is the issue: why do you have to to be repatriated in two weeks, suddenly become Federal the South south geo-political look closely? Does that put food on your table? money? Was Ibori operating the I think you should strictly mind your must be tied to visible projects. zone benefited. What kind of business. Have you forgotten that one of the We reserve, for another day, the Federal reserve? What kind of judgement is that? Are there For Heaven’s sake, leave the First Lady justice minister is Malami who daughters of the First lady is happily married alone. You did not vote for her. She does issue of how our commonwealth no federal unfinished projects and lives in Dubai? So, what is wrong in Madam ended up in Britain. is desperate to unjustly rob the in Delta where the money could not owe you any explanation about her people of Delta of their rightful going to oversee how her daughter is settling whereabouts. If anybody is complaining In his skewed wisdom, Malami have been deployed? down in the commercial Arab country? said the funds will be used to resource? If the argument is that In case Mr Malami does not it should be her husband. And that will Delta State government should end as domestic grumble, not national complete the second Niger bridge know, the Federal Government Hmmmm. Did you confirm if Madam (in the south east), Abuja-- Ka- pay the cost of all the arbitration has just approved the establish- discourse. and expenses incurred by the fed- did not go for Omugwor? Or could it be duna highway (in the Northwest) ment of Federal Polytechnic in that Madam was tired of hearing the loud and Lagos --Ibadan highway (in eral government in the process Orogun, Ughelli North LGA, You exhibit your naivety with so much of recovering the said money, generator noise whenever there is power passion. You do not know that the affairs the south west), arguing that the the very heart of Delta State. cut? crime committed was a federal then that will make sense. But Pray, that amount, (put at over of the First family is a national affair? Are crime and that the Federal Gov- to say that the money so stolen N2billion) is timeously useful they not public votaries? Why was it such an from the Delta treasury to the I have told you to mind your business. Who issue when their son, Yusuf, had motorbike ernment it was that had been in to commence the building of told you that they often suffer power cut in Aso the groove of repatriating the said UK, is now a property of the the Orogun Polytechnic. It is accident in December 2017? Was he the only Federal Government is a clear Rock? Don’t you know that the Presidential one who had motorbike accident at the time? loot from the UK, therefore it is gratifying that the Delta State Villa enjoys special power connection? the Federal Government and case of standing justice on its government has vowed to chal- head. Such lousy arguments Whether they like it or not, the affairs not Delta State that owns the lenge Malami at the Supreme Awwww. Don’t be deceived, NEPA or money. So, Mr Malami, if the could spark regional agitation. Court. If the Minister of Justice of the First family remains a public affair Malami is trying to reap from whatever it is now called, is no respecter which is of great interest to the entire crime was federal, does that lacks enough sense of justice, the of person or place. make the money so stolen also where he did not sow. Supreme Court will not. citizens, be they the elite or the plebeians . 38 THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜2021 BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE BDCs Read Riot Act to FX Speculators, Black Market Dealers Obinna Chima programme will upscale BDCs’ time. compliance with the Anti-Money “All BDCs should appoint The Association of Bureau De Laundering and Combating the Compliance Officers and Data Change Operators of Nigeria Financing of Terrorism (AML/ Protection Officers as directed (ABCON) has warned forex CFT). by the CBN which is also in-line speculators and black market Gwadabe said: “Please, now with the global best practices. dealers to desist from the act. is the time to support the CBN Also, avoid sending your returns Speaking during a virtual to achieve stable exchange rate. late, selling dollar above CBN meeting with members across the Do not allow forex speculators, approved rate,” he advised. six geo-political zones in Nigeria, street hawkers to take over our Gwadabe, said follow- ABCON President, Alhaji Aminu business. ing set rules, the operators Gwadabe, said the BDCs will “Constantly comply with would set a good example in not allow forex speculators and CBN’s regulations on rendition of their operational modalities street hawkers to take over BDC returns and corporate governance and make forex buyers lose business in Nigeria through their practices because aside helping confidence in black market illegal practices. in stabilising the naira, the CBN dealers. The ABCON boss, who examiners can visit your offices He said every BDC operator spoke on the theme: “ABCON and defaulting members will be needs full knowledge and Sensitisation Against Volatility sanctioned.” understanding of how to raise in the Exchange Rate,” during According to him, members and submit both the Suspicious an event attended by over 5,000 can be spot-checked by the Transaction Reports (STRs) BDCs, said licensed BDCs would CBN examiners at any time and Currency Transaction continue to support the Central and should therefore put in Reports (CTRs) to regulators, L-R: Commissioner for Insurance and CEO, National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Mr. Sunday Bank of Nigeria’s efforts to defend necessary measures to align with understand the obligation of Thomas; Managing Director/CEO, Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC), Mrs. Chizor Malize; the naira through regulatory the regulatory policies. registering and filling reports on Associate Director, Mrs. Seyi Onasanya; and Company Secretary, Mr. Alaba Ekundayo, during a courtesy compliance as well support efforts “Be vigilant in your operations the NFIU goAML -Anti-Money visit by the NAICOM CEO to FITC in Lagos…recently to achieve stable exchange rate. because you can be spot-checked Laundering portal and proper He said the sensitisation by the CBN examiners at any documentation of all forex sales. MARKET INDICATORS

AFD to Invest €2bn in Nigeria MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) Michael OlugbodeÓØÌßÔË He said €300 million was being themselves as not adequate. JULY 2020 spent on the Abuja Electricity He said concentrating more Money Supply (M3) 36,822,751.47 Agence Francaise De Developpe- Backup, a project in collaboration than half of the installed electricity ment (AFD) is investing €2 billion with Transmission Company capacity in West Africa, only half -- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors 3,476,121.25 in Nigeria. of Nigeria (TCN) to improve of which was harnessed by the Money Supply (M2) 33,346,630.22 The French Development electricity at the nation’s capital. country, implying a very low Agency (AFD) is a development Grangereau said a total of €200 per capita consumption, limited -- Quasi Money 120,764,479.02 finance institution 100 per cent million is equally expended on access to electricity and frequent -- Narrow Money (M1) 12,582,151.19 held by French government. the North West Electricity Backup. load shedding. He added: “The In Nigeria, it is mainly into On agriculture, he said voca- sector is of strategic importance ---- Currency Outside Banks 2,002,026.89 financing of infrastructure projects tional training is currently held for successive governments, (water, energy, transport and across the nation to improve the with the launching in the 2000s ---- Demand Deposits 10,580,124.31 agriculture). It also involves in skills of Nigerians. of a vast reform, supported by a Net Foreign Assets (NFA) 7,637,137.23 financing related to banking sector, He added: “We intend to massive investment plan; which governance and the cultural and finance agricultural projects reform although supported by Net Domestic Assets(NDA) 29,185,614.24 creative industries. in five states, Benue, Imo and the donors is yet to achieve the -- Net Domestic Credit (NDC) 39,711,115.95 Speaking to THISDAY, the AFD three other states to the tune of expected results. The project Country Director Nigeria, Pascal €50 million.” aims to strengthen the electricity ---- Credit to Government (Net) 19,521,851.08 Grangereau, said €2 billion was He lamented that while it was transmission network, natural ---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA 0.00 set aside to be sent on mainly endowed with reserves of crude monopoly under the responsibility road financing, water sector, oil and natural gas, Nigeria is of the public company TCN, thus ---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA) 0.00 improvement in electricity and characterised by power genera- laying the foundations for a long- agriculture. tion considered by the Nigerians term partnership with TCN.” ---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS) -130,189,264.87 --Other Assets Net 3,472,017.70 Wema Bank Hosts Webinar to Mark IWD Reserve Money (Base Money 13,421,827.07 Wema Bank Plc through its Sanu, will host the webinar, while “With the 2021 IWD celebra- --Currency in Circulation 2,395,917.03 female proposition, Sara by Team Lead, Business Process tion, we are poised to entrench --Banks Reserves 11,025,910.04 ˾ÙßÜÍÏ̋ Wema - will mark this year’s Re-Engineering, Wema Bank, the importance of equity across --Special Intervention Reserves 317,234.17 International Women’s Day Chika Adun, will moderate. the board as a sustainable voice (IWD) with a webinar today. Other panelists include Founder, for women to rise above every The 90 minutes’ event with Green Investment Club and certi- known challenge to the pinnacle Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) the theme: ‘Challenge Today for fied financial education instructor, of career excellence.” Month March 2018 an Equal Tomorrow,’ will have Tomie Balogun; global leadership “Our proposition, SARA, is Inter-Bank Call Rate 15.16 key industry experts and leading development expert, Dupe Akin- a testimony that affirms Wema female corporate policy influenc- siun, and Chief Knowledge Officer, Bank’s commitment to towards Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) ers in the Nigerian financial, Wofin Tech Limited, Omilola the development of women and investment, talent development Oshikoya. girls,” Head, Gender Banking, Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) 14.00 and management ecosystem as Commenting on the importance Wema Bank, Abiola Nejo, Treasury Bill Rate 11.84 panelists. of the webinar, Head, Brands and It added: “This year’s webinar According to a statement, Marketing Communications, Wema is part of a week-long social Savings Deposit Rate 4.07 the webinar aims at speaking Bank Plc. Funmilayo Falola, reiter- media and online engagement to women on challenging ated the institution’s belief in female with Wema Bank’s customers to 1 Month Deposit Rate 8.82 societal norms to reach their full empowerment and equity. share contemporary knowledge, potential in entrepreneurship, the “At Wema Bank, gender deepening technology and 3 Months Deposit Rate 9.72 workplace, or personal lives. sensitivity and diversity are second financial inclusion for their 6 Months Deposit Rate 10.93 The Executive Director, Busi- to none - it is at the heart of our business growth whilst growing ness Support, Wema Bank, Folake operations,” she said. the nation’s GDP. 12 Months Deposit Rate 10.21

Prime Lending rate 17.35

Post Assurance Broker Gets 1SO Certification Maximum Lending Rate 31.55 Nume Ekeghe known quality management of repute that provides cutting standard for companies and edge insurance services and ˾ÙØÏÞËÜãÙÖÓÍãËÞÏ̋ͯͱϱ Post Assurance Brokers Limited, organizations of any size. consultancy to government and OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE AS AT WEDNESDAY, 10 MARCH 2021 an insurance brokerage firm, ISO 9001:2015 specifies require- private organisations in Nigeria,” recently got certified with the ments for a quality management a statement explained. The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $65.60 a barrel on Wednesday, prestigious ISO 9001:2015. system when an organisation “The firm was licensed by the compared with $66.38 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. This was achieved after a needs to demonstrate its ability National Insurance Commission The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan thorough and transparent audit to consistently provide products to operate as a full-fledged Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light process carried out by DNV-GL, and services that meet customer brokerage firm in January 1985. (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), an International certifying body demands and satisfies all appli- Since its inception, Post Assur- ance Brokers has carried out its Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and with its headquarters in Norway. cable statutory and regulatory Merey (Venezuela). According to the International requirements. operation in line with the local Standards Organisation, the ISO “Post Assurance Brokers is regulatory laws and international SOURCE: OPEC headquarters, Vienna 9000 family is the world’s best an insurance brokerage firm best practices. THISDAY ˾  ͯͰ˜ͰͮͰͯ 39

   NSE, ARM Securities Partner on Retail Investors’ Participation Goddy Egene NSE, Mr. Jude Chiemeka, said: out of 93 global indices tracked investors with the necessary gies provide. The importance Managing Director, ARM, Mr. “Despite the year 2020 presenting by Bloomberg, posting a one- skill and knowledge required of determining an investor’s Gbenga Magbagbeola, provided The Nigerian Stock Exchange a number of local and global year return of +50.03 per ent. to enable them achieve those investment objective, risk ap- information on how participants (NSE) in collaboration with ARM economic challenge, the Nigerian It is therefore no wonder that objectives.. petite and knowledge of the can take advantage of capital Securities Limited yesterday held stock market witnessed what was the stock market has continued In addressing the theme stock market were emphasised market opportunities. a retail investors workshop in arguably one of its best years to attract numerous investors.” around Value Investing vs. as critical factors in making In response to the participants’ line with its objective to enhance in recent history. The market According to him, at the NSE Growth Investing, Investment investment decisions. and the investment public’s retail investors’ participation in recorded a number of significant they will continue to make it Research Analyst, ARM, Mr. Participants were allowed growing demand for a better the Nigerian capital market. milestones and achievements a priority to not only provide Mustapha Alao, and Equities to further engage with the understanding and appreciation The event was themed: ‘Value during the course of the year, all investors with an accessible, Portfolio Manager, ARM, speakers through a dedicated of investment products, the Investing vs. Growth Investing.’ one of which was the NSE All transparent market where they Mr. Seyi Adeosun, provided interactive session moderated exchange continues to provide Speaking at the event, the Di- Share Index emerging the best can achieve their investment participants with insights on by the Head, X-Academy, NSE, touchpoints to communicate visional Head, Trading Business, performing index in the world objectives, but also to equip the opportunities both strate- Ms. Ugochi Obi. In his address, including webinars such as this. PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED AS OF 11/03/2021

MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED PRICE TRADED ( N ) PRICE TRADED ( N ) 40 FRIDAY, MARCH 12, 2021 ˾THISDAY MARKET NEWS Q2: Custodian Investors Forecasts N4.7bn Profit after Tax Profit Goddy Egene holding company with interest property and financial services quarter ending June 30, 2021. of N39.537 billion, while tax would be N5.859 billion, in life insurance, general has made a profit forecast of According to the firm, it total expenses would print at just profit after tax would be Custodian Investment Plc, a insurance, pensions, trustees, N4.653 billion for the second would record gross revenue N33.713 billion. Profit before at N4.653 billion. 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 10- NAV: Is value per share of the real estate shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the Mar-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 100.00 100.00 0.95% Afrinvest Equity Fund 150.29 151.78 -7.10% Nigeria Entertainment Fund 126.44 125.91 17.35% Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 3.66% GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Nigeria International Debt Fund 353.37 353.37 -11.23% Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 Afrinvest Dollar Fund 111.80 111.80 -0.27% 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 1.02 1.03 13.27% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Income Funds 0.65 0.65 -11.06% Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 1.27% AIICO CAPITAL LTD [email protected] Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Vantage Balanced Fund 2.63 2.69 14.69% 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 2.01% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 155.95 156.39 0.34% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.24 3.40 -8.55% Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End 1.07 1.07 4.88% ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fi[email protected] Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Lotus Halal Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A Anchoria Money Market N/A N/A N/A Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Anchoria Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Anchoria Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Meristem Equity Market Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 17.91 18.45 -1.23% Meristem Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 398.72 410.74 -0.41% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ARM Ethical Fund 35.24 36.30 4.53% Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.19 1.20 -2.37% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Fixed Income Fund 1.05 1.05 -6.50% PACAM Balanced Fund 1.58 1.61 7.53% ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 1.24% PACAM Fixed Income Fund 12.23 12.35 -0.04% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED [email protected] PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 1.50% Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com PACAM Equity Fund 1.56 1.57 -1.52% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM EuroBond Fund 109.45 112.14 0.04% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 103.00 103.00 1.27% SCM CAPITAL LIMITED [email protected] AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund 121.72 122.57 -3.53% SCM Capital Frontier Fund 126.12 128.28 5.44% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 1.99% SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD [email protected] CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.01 1.01 1.21% CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.04 2.04 -23.10% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.12 2.16 -25.32% Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 2.55% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund N/A N/A N/A Paramount Equity Fund 15.32 15.04 -5.95% Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund N/A N/A N/A Women's Investment Fund 130.09 128.67 -3.34% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund N/A N/A N/A CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) N/A N/A N/A Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 1.91% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund N/A N/A N/A Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 125.48 126.35 UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 N/A N/A Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 803 306 2887 Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 110.29 110.29 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT [email protected] United Capital Balanced Fund 1.31 1.33 -3.98% Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 United Capital Bond Fund 1.91 1.91 1.08% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United Capital Equity Fund 0.87 0.90 1.04% Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 0.95% United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 3.11% Coronation Balanced Fund 1.15 1.16 -4.33% United Capital Eurobond Fund 118.44 118.44 1.16% Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.49 1.49 -6.12% United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.06 1.07 -2.38% EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] United capital Sukuk Fund 1.02 1.02 2.30% Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 1.90% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 1.59% Zenith Equity Fund 12.03 12.13 1.38% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,156.17 1,159.49 -3.64% FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Zenith Ethical Fund 13.33 13.44 9.12% Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 Zenith Income Fund 24.20 24.20 0.92% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 1.75% FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,348.05 1,348.05 5.51% REITS FBN Balanced Fund 180.32 181.58 -3.92% Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn FBN Halal Fund N/A N/A N/A SFS Skye Shelter Fund 121.84 0.91% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 2.01% Union Homes REIT 52.76 0.69% FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Institutional N/A N/A N/A FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 123.86 123.86 3.00% EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 145.25 147.18 -3.93% Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund 12.35 12.45 -6.54% FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] SIAML Pension ETF 40 113.77 113.77 -6.55% Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund 91.56 93.29 -7.85% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Legacy Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Legacy Debt Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Equity Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund 3.66 3.70 -3.03% Legacy USD Bond Fund N/A N/A N/A Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund 5.28 5.36 -7.13% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund 16.68 16.78 2.07% Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Vetiva Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 0.13% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund 19.47 19.67 -5.09% Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund 176.89 178.89 -19.89% Coral Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A Coral Income Fund N/A N/A N/A INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn FSDH Treasury Bills Fund N/A N/A N/A Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund 108.05 13.11% The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only. FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 • THISDAY 41 42 FRIDAY,  ͹ͺ˜ͺ͸ͺ͹˾THISDAY NEWS Ganduje, Umahi, Masari, Others Take COVID-19 Vaccine Delta, Oyo, three others receive consignments No adverse reactions from vaccination, says NPHCDA Denmark, others temporarily suspend use of vaccine Our Correspondents Administration and Control said the state had also for persons aged 18 years and the development, said concerns. (NAFDAC). provided effective storage above. 127,740 doses of the vaccine On Wednesday, the EMA Governors Abdullahi Ganduje The vaccine was also equipment at state, local and Meanwhile, Sokoto State were received by the state said a preliminary probe of Kano State; Ahmadu administered on some of the ward levels in order to keep government has taken government as part of the first showed that the batch of Fintiri of ; governor's family members as the potency of the vaccine. delivery of consignments of phase of vaccine distribution. AstraZeneca vaccines used in Aminu Bello Masari of well as commissioners, special took delivery the vaccines from the federal Austria was likely not to be Katsina State; Dave Umahi advisers and representatives of 61,320 doses of the government. Denmark, Norway, blamed for the nurse’s death. of ; and Okezie of frontline health workers vaccine with the governor, Similarly officials of Kebbi However, AstraZeneca, Ikpeazu of Abia State, as well across the state. Ikpeazu, receiving the first State led by its Executive Iceland, Others an Anglo-Swedish company as their deputies and other Earlier, the Commissioner jab yesterday. Secretary, Primary Health Suspend Use of which developed the vaccine top government functionaries for Health, Dr. Yakubu Danja, The Commissioner Development Agency, Mr. AstraZeneca Vaccine with Oxford University, were yesterday administered disclosed that the state had for Health, Dr. Joe Osuji Ka'oje Mohammed, said the defended the safety of its with the COVID-19 vaccine in received 107,540 doses of the confirmed the delivery to state has taken delivery of In a related development, product. their respective state capitals. vaccine. THISDAY, saying that the full 57, 810 doses. Denmark, Norway and “The safety of the vaccine Delta, Sokoto, Anambra, He noted that the vaccines rollout would commence on Anambra State Iceland yesterday temporarily has been extensively studied Kebbi and Oyo States also will expire by July 10, adding Monday after the frontline Commissioner for Health, suspended the use of the in phase III clinical trials and yesterday received their that the state has adequate health workers would have Dr. Vincent Okpala has also vaccine over concerns about peer-reviewed data confirms allocations of the vaccine facilities to store the vaccine taken their jabs. confirmed receipt of 78,810 patients developing post-jab the vaccine has been generally from the federal government. safely at a temperature of 2 However, Ikpeazu was doses of the vaccine for the blood clots. well tolerated,” a spokesman But few days after the degrees Centigrade to 8°C at vaccinated at government state. Denmark was first to for the group said. federal government began the State Primary Healthcare house by his personal He made the confirmation announce its suspension, nationwide vaccination with Development Agency. physician, Dr. Mike Enyinnaya, at the state’s cold store at the “following reports of serious No Adverse Reactions the Oxford-AstraZeneca Fintiri who took the vaccine in the presence of government Chukwuemeka Odumegwu cases of blood clots” among vaccine to protect citizens alongside his commissioners officials and journalists. Ojukwu Teaching Hospital people who had received the from Vaccination, Says against the COVID-19 at the Specialist Hospital, Yola, Others that later received (COOTH), Amaku, Awka. vaccine, the country’s health NPHCDA pandemic, Denmark, Norway the state capital, said it is very the jabs included the Secretary The state took delivery of authority said in a statement. and Iceland yesterday important but not compulsory. to the State Government the vaccines on Wednesday It stressed the move was In Nigeria, the National temporarily suspended the use In Abakaliki, Ebonyi State (SSG), Mr. Chris Ezem; Chief night at Akanu Ibiam precautionary, and that “it Primary Health Care of AstraZeneca’s COVID-19 capital, Umahi and his wife, of Staff to the Governor, Dr. International Airport in Enugu, has not been determined, at Development Agency vaccine over concerns about Rachel, took the vaccine at Anthony Agbazuere; Health before moving them to the the time being, that there is (NPHCDA) clarified that the patients developing post-jab the new Government House. Commissioner, Osuji; Chief cold store for storage. a link between the vaccine country is yet to observe any blood clots, even as the Others who also received Security Officer; Chief Press Meanwhile, the speaker and the blood clots.” adverse reactions. manufacturer and Europe’s the vaccines included the Secretary, Mr. Onyebuchi of Anambra State House Austria announced The agency in a statement medicines watchdog insisted Deputy Governor, Mr. Kelechi Ememanka, some security of Assembly, Hon. Uche on Monday that it had released via its official handle the vaccine is safe. Igwe, and his wife, Nnenna, agents and Government Okafor, some commissioners suspended the use of a batch @NphcdaNG, explained The National Primary and other members of the House workers. and traditional rulers in the of AstraZeneca vaccines after that all side effects reported Health Care Development State Executive Council. The governor called on all state took the vaccine, under a 49-year-old nurse died of by those who have been Agency (NPHCDA) also The Commissioner for residents of the state to take the supervision of the state “severe blood coagulation administered with the vaccine yesterday clarified that Nigeria Health, Dr. Daniel Umezurike, the vaccine, noting that the governor, Chief Willie Obiano, problems” days after receiving have been mild. is yet to observe any ‘similar administered the vaccines on vaccine is necessary to win yesterday. an anti-COVID-19 shot. It explained that the agency adverse reactions.’ the top government officials. the battle against the Covid-19 The government of Oyo Four other European is aware of precautionary Taking the jab in Katsina, Umahi in Abakaliki warned pandemic ravaging the world. State, also yesterday confirmed countries — Estonia, Latvia, concerns that have been raised Masari urged Nigerians to against commercialisation of Delta State Governor, the receipt of 127, 740 doses. Lithuania and Luxemburg — regarding one specific batch disregard rumours about the vaccines adding that such Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, will A statement by the Chief have also suspended the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine, the efficacy and effects of an act would create room for today receive the first dose of Press Secretary to Governor of vaccines from this batch, namely ABV5300. the vaccines on them. fake vaccines to flood the state. the COVID-19 vaccine. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, which was sent to 17 European “We understand that He took the vaccine In Kano State, Ganduje’s The Commissioner of Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated countries and consisted of one investigations are being alongside his deputy, Mr. personal physician, Dr. Health, Dr. Mordi Ononye, that the vaccines were received million jabs. conducted to determine if the Mannir Yakubu; the State Fakhraddeen Muhammad, disclosed this yesterday in in Ibadan by the Oyo State Denmark, however, batch is in any way linked to Chief Judge, Justice Musa inoculated him, pledging Asaba while briefing newsmen Primary Healthcare Board. suspended the use of all of an observed side effect. Abubakar, and said it is to kick out the pandemic on the receipt of 85,700 doses According to the statement, its AstraZeneca supply, as “We are satisfied that the certified to be safe and like polio. of the vaccine by the state the Executive Secretary of did Iceland and Norway in clinical evidence indicates the effective by the National The Commissioner for government and modalities the Board, Dr. Muideen subsequent announcements Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine to Agency for Food and Drug Health, Dr. Aminu Tsanyawa, for giving the vaccines meant Olatunji, who confirmed yesterday citing similar be safe and effective,” it said. Eastern Rail Corridor to Link 14 States, Says FG Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja of THISDAY Newspapers, Buhari's approval to connect project, he said the federal security in our waters," he cargoes initially destined said the connecting spurs Abakaliki and Awka from government was fighting said. for other countries would The federal government would be from Port Harcourt Enugu. those benefiting from Amaechi added that "The be redirected to the nation yesterday shed more to Bonny where there would He explained: "That will insecurity on the nation's reason why we will not go with the attendant economic light on the benefits of be a deep seaport and Port cover the entire five states of waters. out of it is that there are benefits and job creation. the Eastern Rail Corridor Harcourt to Owerri, Aba, the South-east from where He said the project, billed people who provide vessels He said the government of which groundbreaking Umuahia and Enugu. we proceed to Makurdi, and for launch by month-end, had to NNPC and they are paid Niger Republic had agreed President Muhammadu He added that the deep from Makurdi to Lafia. all the platforms needed for every week and they are paid that their national cargoes Buhari performed virtually blue sea project conceived “Between Lafia andprogression, including three billions of dollars in a lease would go through Nigeria’s on Tuesday, saying it will by the federal government Kaduna, there is a connection helicopters, three fixed-wing and all that." rail track. stimulate economic activities to fight piracy in Nigeria's from Kaduna to Kafanchan planes, two ships and 16 On the controversial Amaechi said the in 14 states it covers. waters was being delayed to join the western flank of vessels, among others. Kano-Maradi Rail Line, the implication of the expected Minister of Transport, by those benefitting from the railway line which is a He accused the providers minister said the project is agreement to be signed Hon. Rotimi Amaechi, insecurity and raking in standard gauge. of rented vessels, who are Nigeria's contribution to a between the two countries said the $1.96 billion Port billions of dollars on the lease "We will continue from Jos paid billions of naira, of rail project conceived by was that business would Harcourt-Maiduguri Eastern of vessels to the Nigerian to Bauchi, Bauchi to Gombe. hampering the project. ECOWAS. thrive in Kano and Abuja Railway Corridor, would link Navy. “At Gombe, there is a spur "All the security The project has come under with the attendant job 14 states, including the five On the controversial Kano- headed to Damaturu and architecture you need to get criticism with questions creation. South-east states of Abia, Maradi rail line, the minister from Damaturu to Gashua the project going is on the raised over the rationale On the Abuja-Kaduna rail Anambra, Imo, Ebonyi and said the project is Nigeria's and from Gombe again to ground, but those who do for such a project linking line, he stated that it had Enugu as well as nine others. contribution to a rail project Borno.” business in the waters, those a foreign nation with a loan generated N120 million since The other states are: Rivers, conceived by the Economic He said the project entailed who benefit from insecurity, from China when Nigeria is the introduction of electronic Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, Community of West African reconstruction of the narrow were making it difficult for in dire need of funds. ticketing. Kaduna, Yobe, Borno, Bauchi States (ECOWAS). gauge system with an the project to continue But Amaechi said a According to him, the and Gombe. He stated that the Eastern additional approval by the "Now when the project feasibility study of the project management of the rail Amaechi, who was a Rail Corridor and its president to seek funds to continues, it will be difficult was first conducted by the line is no longer dependent guest on 'The Morning extensions are being handled build a standard gauge for for anybody to say they are administration of former on government subvention Show', the premier breakfast by China Civil Engineering the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri helping the navy with vessels President Goodluck Jonathan. but on revenue generated programme on ARISE NEWS and Construction Company rail line and the spurs. and all that because we have He said the project would through the e-ticketing to Channel, the broadcast arm (CCECC) and he had sought On the deep blue sea all the platforms to provide be beneficial to Nigeria as cover its operational cost. FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 ˾THISDAY 43 NEWS Niger Closes All Public Schools over Insecurity Bandits kidnap APC ward chairman’s daughter, nephew Laleye Dipo in Minna According to the statement: especially in the school system”. Shiroro. in the operation by the bandits . “ My daughter had earlier “The exercise, when completed, No fewer than 22 schools (11 Meanwhile, the daughter and The names of the abductees woken me up that there were Following the worsening state will provide an all-inclusive day schools and 11 boarding nephew of the APC Chairman were given as Akiratu Sani some people in the compound,” of insecurity in parts of Niger mechanism and strategies that schools) were closed in the wake in Kato ward, Alhaji Sani Majin (daughter) and Kaka Danladi the Ward chairman told State, the state government has will restore and guarantee of the Kidnap of 42 persons from Kato have been kidnapped. ( nephew) of the APC ward THISDAY on telephone interview, closed all public schools with sustainable security and safety the Government Science College, The duo were abducted chairman. adding that before he could do effect from Friday (today), March of students, school infrastructure, Kagara . yesterday from their Bugiko The gunmen were reported to anything, “the bandits started 12, 2021. education managers, and teachers These schools are located in village in the Shiroro LGA and have stormed the residence of shooting at our rooms; I shouted This is coming as the in the state” . banditry-prone local governments taken into hiding. the ward chairman in the village to others to run but bullet hit one daughter and nephew of the According to document of Rafi, Mariga, Munya and One other person was injured and started shooting sporadically. person injuring him seriously”. All Progressives Congress (APC) sighted by THISDAY, a meeting Chairman in Kato ward, Alhaji had been held earlier with the Sani Majin Kato have been leadership of the Association kidnapped. of the Proprietors of Private The closure of the schools will Schools (NAPPS),Association of be on for two weeks. Model Islamic Schools (AMIS), The decision was taken at the Executive Chairman, state executive council meeting Universal Basic Education Board held at the Council Chambers (NSUBEB),Heads of Education of the Government House on Agencies, Directors of the Wednesday with Governor Ministry and other stakeholders Abubakar Sani Bello presiding. of the Education sector in the A statement issued yesterday State on the issue. by the state Ministry of Education, The statement emphasised which was signed by the government’s commitment Information Officer, Mr. Jibrin to “leave no stone unturned Usman Kodo, confirmed the and ensure that all schools are closure of the schools. safe environments for effective The statement explained that teaching and learning”. the policy was necessary “to It urged the people of the give relevant security agencies the state “not to relent in their time and opportunity to conduct show of solidarity, cooperation a comprehensive risk assessment and collaboration with the of all public secondary schools” government in this critical task of in the state. surmounting security challenges LEADING BY EXAMPLE… ...Kill Seven in Fresh Cross River State Governor, Prof. Ben Ayade (right), registering for the State Health Insurance Scheme, while the Divisional Head, Health and Education, Sterling Bank Plc, Mr. Obinna Ukachukwu, looks on during the kick-off of the Cross River State Health Insurance Scheme in Attacks on Kaduna Calabar …recently Communities John Shiklam in Kaduna Gangi village, Igabi LGA, House is Broke, Says Spokesman shooting sporadically in what Seven people have been killed seemed to be a cattle rustling Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja the National Assembly is afraid is afraid to appropriate the National Assembly is divided in fresh attacks by bandits on operation,” stressing that “in to appropriate the sufficient sufficient amount for them to among all the agencies of the communities in Igabi, Giwa and the process,four residents were The spokesperson of the amount for them to do their job. do their job.” National Assembly, staff of over Chikun Local Government Areas killed.” House of Representatives, Hon. He said: “I have actually He also revealed that the 3,000 to 6,000 members, and the of . He listed those killed as:Wada Benjamin Kalu, has stated that fought with the leadership of House is indebted to contractors aides-five aides per lawmaker.” In a statement issued Sulaiman, Amiru Saidu Yusha’u the House is broke, adding the House, and I have asked the who provide one form of service He added that the yesterday in Kaduna, the state Mohammadu and Osama however that the leadership question: ‘why are you afraid to or another at the National National Assembly has been Commissioner for Internal Abdulwahab. of the National Assembly raise the budget of the National Assembly complex because appropriating adequate Security and Home Affairs, Mr. He added that two others - is reluctant to increase the Assembly that will enable us of paucity of fund. budgetary allocation to Samuel Aruwan, said several Ibrahim Jibrin and Abdulhamid budgetary allocation from conduct our services efficiently According to Kalu, “Let us Ministries, Departments and people were injured while some Suleiman sustained injuries from N128 billion. and effectively?’ be fair in our analogy; let us Agencies (MDAs), but the houses were burnt and cattle gunshots and were receiving Kalu, while addressing “Yes the House is broke; I wear the right spectacles when legislative arm is in penury, and rustled. treatment in the hospital. journalists yesterday in Abuja, have said it before, and I am we analyse it, and you will find finds it difficult to perform its He said “security agencies The commissioner said, wondered why the leadership of not afraid to say it again. It out that the N128 billion of the legislative function. reported that seven people during the raid, the bandits have been killed and several razed three houses belonging more injured, with properties to Mohammad Jibril, Salisu Ya’u destroyed and cattle rustled and Idris Muhammad, while a AK-47: Presidency Releases Video of in a series of separate attacks pick-up truck belonging to one occurring in Igabi, Giwa and Umaru Saleh was also burnt. Chikun Local Government “In all, 20 cows belonging Buhari’s Shoot-on-sight Order Areas.” to two residents of the village In a bid to demonstrate that Special Assistant to the of the House of Representatives, Twitter handle, @NGRPresident, Aruwan said in the first were rustled and herded away President Muhammadu Buharu President on Media and Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, had yesterday released a 14-second attack, the “bandits stormed by the bandits”, he added. actual ordered security agents Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu, insisted that Buhari should video clip showing the President to shoot illegal bearers of AK-47 had recently announced that have handed down the order issuing the order. rifle on sight, the Presidency Buhari had given specific orders himself. In the clip, the President said, Gunmen Kill Policeman as yesterday released a video to troops to shoot any civilian In an apparent move to “Anybody with AK-47 should be showing Buhari, ordering bearing AK-47 rifle. convince Nigerians that Buhari shot because AK-47 is supposed Military Neutralises One security agents to shoot any But prominent Nigerians, himself gave the order, the to be registered and it is only Gang Member in Benue civilian seen with AK-47 rifle. including the Minority Leader Presidency through its official given to security officials.” George Okoh in Makurdi kingpin have been holding sway, a development which ASUU: Why NLC Can’t Negotiate on Our Behalf Some gunmen suspected to be made the state government Hammed Shittu in Ilorin capital at the National Executive negotiate if you don’t know the own responsibilities. loyal to the notorious Benue to place a dusk-to-dawn Council (NEC) meeting of the peculiarities and the challenges “Every time we meet with the State warlord, the late Terwase curfew as well as ban the Academic Staff Union of Nigeria Union of Allied Health of such association. government for negotiation, NLC Akwaza alias Gana yesterday use of motorcycles and Universities (ASUU) yesterday Professionals (NUAHP). “Second, we are not happy is always represented. But they can morning reportedly attacked Toyota Camry popularly alleged that it would not allow the The theme of the lecture is with the leadership of the NLC only come in as watching brief. I Tse Harga community in known as Duck Yansh to leadership of the Nigeria Labour “Results-oriented unionism in a in some of the way and manner cannot come and negotiate your Katsina-Ala Local Government avert further criminal and Congress (NLC) to negotiate on its democratic setting.” they have coordinated the affair marriage and children with you Area of the state killing the banditry activities in the axis. behalf in trade disputes because Ajao said that ASUU has no of the union. when I am not part of the marriage, a police officer. The Sankera axis comprises some of the labour leaders are apology for any union leaders “So, ASUU on its own has its but I can come as a moderator to This is even as troops of of three local government sell-out. who wine and dine with the leadership but we’re an affiliate ensure things are done normally. the Operation Whirl Stroke areas of Logo, Ukum and Chairman, University of government. of the NLC. “NLC cannot take the (OPWS), in collaboration Katsina-Ala, which had been Ilorin (UITH) branch of ASUU “We have peculiarities of our “We have never withdrawn responsibility of the leadership with the police neutralised hotbed of violent attacks. Prof. Moyosore Ajao made the profession that the NLC might not our affiliate. We have our own of the ASUU to say they want one of the suspected attackers Sources from Harga allegation in Ilorin, Kwara State fully understand and you cannot leadership that deals with our to negotiate for it. who was caught with over community who spoke to 200 rounds of ammunitions. journalists but pleaded Ogun Distributes COVID-19 Vaccines as Lawmakers Take First Jab It was gathered that the anonymity, said the attackers gunmen invaded the sleepy arrived at about 4am while Kayode Fasua in Abeokuta vaccination of residents at all need to ensure even, equitable trained in the administration community and suddenly the people were still sleeping. the major primary healthcare and unhindered access to the of the vaccines. launched an attack on the “We noticed the presence of The Speaker of the Ogun State centres in the state as from vaccine informed the decision The training, Somorin people in the area without the attackers and we quickly House of Assembly, Hon. yesterday (Thursday). to take the vaccine to all the further said, is in compliance provocation. alerted the DPO who also Kunle Oluomo, has received A statement issued in primary healthcare centres. with the directives of the Tse Harga is part of the mobilised and swiftly moved his jab of Oxford/AstraZeneca Abeokuta by Governor Dapo The statement noted that all National Primary Healthcare Sankera axis where the to the area to find out what COVID-19 vaccine, as the Abiodun’s Chief Press Secretary, the nurses and other community Development Agency to ensure loyalists of the deceased militia was happening. state government commenced Mr. Kunle Somorin said the healthcare workers were being that nothing goes wrong. 44 FRIDAY MARCH 12,2021 ˾THISDAY NEWSEXTRA AIB Retracts Statement on , Says Flight’s Tyre Didn’t Burst on Landing Chinedu Eze landed at the Runway 18R of the at Lagos Airport”, stated: “We Nigeria (AIB-N) following Authority (NCAA). Further yet to be ascertained. Murtala Muhammed Airport, refer to the occurrence involving a download of the aircraft’s enquiries on this occurrence The statement also said the The Accident Investigation known as international runway. a Boeing 737-300 aircraft with Flight Data Recorder (FDR) should be addressed to the airline took exception to earlier Bureau Nigeria (AIB-N) has While taxing over two nationality and registration and Cockpit Voice Recorder NCAA forthwith.” reports implying that the aircraft retracted its earlier statement on kilometres to the domestic marks 5N-BUQ, operated by Air (CVR) revealed that the aircraft Spokesman of Air Peace, had a tyre burst on landing, the incident involving Air Peace terminal (MMA1), known as Peace Limited, which occurred experienced a burst tyre during Mr. Stanley Oliseh had in an “as this is conveying a wrong Boeing 737-300 with registration General Aviation Terminal at the Murtala Mohammed taxing.” earlier statement explained that impression about the airline to number 5N-BUQ, saying that (GAT), the aircraft suffered a International Airport, , AIB-N said, “as the occurrence the aircraft safely landed at the the flying public. If the tyre had the tyre of the aircraft did not tyre puncture. Lagos on Monday, March 8, falls under the category of international wing of the airport, burst on landing, the aircraft burst on landing, as it earlier AIB in the latest statement 2021. incident, AIB-N has therefore adding that while taxing to the would not have moved two stated. signed by its General Manager, “Initial findings made by the ceded the investigation to domestic wing, it had a tyre kilometres from the international The incident occurred on Public Affairs, Mr. Tunji Accident Investigation Bureau, the Nigerian Civil Aviation puncture caused by what was wing to the domestic wing.” Monday, March 8, 2021 at 10:31 Oketunbi and titled, “Update pm, when the Abuja-Lagos flight on Air Peace Aircraft Incident Gunmen Abduct Two Students, One Teacher in Edo Adibe Emenyonu in Benin-city Technology, Uromi, , state and federal government confirmed the kidnap of the FG to Switch Off TV were reportedly abducted by colleges with hostels. two students and a teacher of What may have become a gunmen. As at the time of filing this the institution last Wednesday regular scenario in the North- It was gathered that the report, parents and relatives of night. Analogue Signals west region, where students and gunmen stormed the institute the kidnapped victims have Kontongs said: “It is true; teachers are being abducted last Wednesday night and reportedly stormed the school there was a case of kidnapping, from May 28 and ransom paid for their abducted the victims. premises. and the police are on the trail of Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja Idachaba, who provided the release, has gradually crept The abduction of the students When contacted on the kidnappers. Three persons technical details, said the first into Edo State, as two students and teacher has heightened phone, the newly appointed were kidnapped-two students The federal government has analogue switch-off is slated for and a teacher of the federal tension among residents of spokesman of the state Police and a staff. The police are after rolled out the time table for May 28, 2021, in the Federal government-owned National the community as well as other Command, Superintendent the kidnappers, and we will switching off analogue signals Capital Territory while Plateau, Institute of Construction areas of the state, particularly the of Police Bello Kontongs, get them.” on televisions and the transition Kaduna, Kwara, Enugu and to full digital platforms across Osun States that have already the country. linked to the DSO under Phase Igboho Seeks Support for Yoruba Nation The Minister of Information 1, would follow suit in June, A Yoruba activist, Chief Sunday support the agitation for Yoruba spokeperson Olayomi Koiki to doubt him. We have a 100 per and Culture, Mr. Lai August and September 2021 Adeyemo, aka Sunday Igboho, nation is highly welcome; the of Koiki Media is not a fact.” cent confidence in him. Mohammed, and the Acting respectively. has called on the Yoruba people goal is ‘Yoruba Nation’. He noted that a former “Let’s not talk with envy; we Director General of National The federal government to be united and speak with “We know what we want and Minister of Aviation, Chief Femi must unite and stay strong in Broadcasting Corporation warned that once the analogue one voice, saying there should no going back. Every other side Fani Kayode, was one of the one voice. Therefore, we want (NBC), Prof. Amstrong signal is switched off, no one be no going back or distraction talk is nothing but a distraction. stakeholders that have identified to identify with Chief Femi Fani Idachaba, disclosed this on the system would receive in their quest for Yoruba nation We are fully focused; Yoruba with his team in the struggle of Kayode and any other person yesterday at a press briefing television signals anymore in In a statement issued yesterday Nation is the goal. Yoruba Nation. that stands for the Yoruba race on the time table for the Phase the country except with the by his spokesman, Mr. Olayomi “Let me reiterate, anything “He can give his own advice irrespective of their religion or 2 of Digital Switch Over (DSO), DSO approved set-top boxes Koiki of Koiki Media, Igboho you did not hear from I, Sunday at any time as regards the political party affiliation,” the in Nigeria. (decoders). said: “Anyone who is willing to Adeyemo (Igboho) or my agitation and there’s no reason statement explained. FRIDAY MARCH 12,2021 ˾THISDAY 45 NEWSEXTRA Itsekiri, Urhobo, Others Ask FG to Return Repatriated £4.2m to Delta Alex Enumah in Abuja and The London-based Itsekiri take-off of the proposed Federal returned to the coffers of the to resuscitate. On its part, UPU Worldwide, Sylvester Idowu in Warri Congress UK (ICUK) and Polytechnic, Orogun, both in state government, which it “In a Federation like Nigeria, in a statement also appealed Urhobo Progressive Union Urhoboland. accused of denying that its using the funds of one of the to the federal government to Itsekri, and Urhobo groups, as (UPU), in separate statements, On its part, the ICUK said funds were looted. Federating states to develop use the soon-to-be-repatriated well as League of Professionals argued that the funds should the money should be utilised on It however, opposed plans projects in another state without Delta State money to fund the for Strategic Advocacy have be used for the development of meaningful and life-transforming by the federal government to the consent of the state involved take-off of the newly established asked the federal government federal projects in Delta State. projects in the state. expend the recovered funds is not only unfair but illegal and Federal Polytechnic, Orogun, to use the £4.2million recovered UPU maintained that the President of ICUK, Mr. Dede to develop projects outside it totally negates the very essence Ughelli North Local Government from the associates of a former recovered funds should be Ukuti and Public Relations the state. of Nigeria as a Federation. The Area as well as the Federal Governor of Delta State, Chief spent on Federal University Officer, Mr. Sheyi Mackson It argued that there are several recovered fund belongs to Delta University of Petroleum James Ibori to fund projects in of Petroleum Resources Ejejigbe, said in a statement federal government’s abandoned State and, therefore, should be Resources (FUPRE), Effurun the state. (FUPRE), Effurun and for the yesterday that it was against projects in the state that the invested in projects in Delta in Uvwie Local Government the recovered funds being recovered funds can be used State,” the statement said. Area of the state. FG Begins Recruitment 14 COVID-19 Herbal Medicines Get NAFDAC Listing Process for 500,000 Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Prof. Adeyeye said the agency She explained that having of herbal medicines that are conducted diligent study on the scaled the listing hurdle, the going to be used for clinical The National Agency for Food vaccine and confirmed that it’s affected herbal medicines will trials. But I will not be surprised N-Power Beneficiaries and Drug Administration and safe and efficacious for use now proceed to the next of if we herbal medicine that has The Minister of Humanitarian recruiting and onboarding Control (NAFDAC) has said that against COVID-19. clinical trials. anti-viral against COVID-19,” Affairs, Disaster Management of the Batch C N-Power 14 COVID-19 herbal medicines Adeyeye who said that “We have approved about 14 she said. and Social Development, Sadiya beneficiaries beginning with have now been listed for use Nigeria will be getting more COVID-19 herbal medicine for Speaking on the agency’s Farouq, yesterday disclosed 500,000 beneficiaries. in country. supply of Astrazeneca from listing, meaning they are now acclerated approval of that the selection process for “The N-Power Batch C as Speaking to journalists Russian soon, also spoke on the safe for consumption but how Astrazeneca vaccine, NAFDAC 500,000 Batch C beneficiaries inaugurated today is structured yesterday shortly after she fate of many herbal medicines efficacious they are is when D DG said that from the record of the federal government’s to onboard one million new received a jab of the Astrazeneca submitted to NAFDAC by they undergo clinical trials. of the clinical trials conducted N-Power programme had beneficiaries, beginning with vaccine at the NAFDAC traditional medicine practitioners. The government has arranged by the manufacturers and the commenced. an initial 500,000 beneficiaries headquarters in Abuja, the She said the agency has for research and development analysis done by the agency, it’s Speaking in Abuja, during in the first stream. Director General of the agency, approved 14 of them for listing. scheme and we have a number benefits outweigh the side effects. the inauguration of the National Social Investment Management System (NASIMS), Masari’s Wife Kicks against Almajiri System of Education a portal developed for ease of coordination, deployment and Francis Sardauna in Katsina the International Women’s Day, is no gain in it. from the rural areas. not in support of the Almajiri management of the selection added that most of the children “Whoever is saying children “Look at the nature of places system of education.” process, the minister further The wife of the Katsina State roaming the streets under the should be allowed to enroll in where they sleep! A Mallam The governor’s wife, however, revealed that one million Governor, Dr. Hadiza Bello guise of attending Qur’anic Almajiri schools, why not have has 40 children, and if there is stressed the need for more persons would benefit in the Masari, has kicked against the schools as Almajirai are been his children in the system? Most any outbreak of communicable women to show interest and current batch of the social Almajiri system of education, exposed to numerous health of these children move in the disease, it will affect all of them participate actively in partisan investment programme. warning that northern Nigeria challenges. streets barefooted with tattered because they sleep closely with politics in order to address issues Farouq said all applicants would be doomed if parents THISDAY observed that clothes, and most of them are one another. Left for me, I am affecting them in the country. had been migrated onto the failed to abolish the age-long the state government had NASIMS platform, adding system of education. concluded plans to repatriate also that they would undergo She said the original aim of 7,893 Almajirai to their respective a mandatory online test as part the Almajiri system of education home states-2,052 out of the of the selection process. has been neglected, and it has number are from Niger Republic. She pointed out that the Batch become synonymous with Mrs. Masari said: “Most C programme would be for “abandoned children roaming Almajirai today sleep in the one year, while participants the streets and begging for alms streets and other places which would get a monthly pay of instead of acquiring Islamic is against the olden day system N30,000 each. education.” of Almajiri education. In those “We have reached another The Katsina State first lady days, people benefited from the milestone in the process of at a press conference to mark Almajiri system, but today, there 46 FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 ˾THISDAY 24 HOURS... APC Stakeholders in Dilemma WORLD OF ISLAM over Chairmanship as Leadership Edited by: MJO Mustapha Email [email protected] Favours North-central Isra and Miraj: The Stakeholders in the ruling All fair share through Chief John governor, Senator George Akume Progressives Congress (APC) Odigie-Oyegun, the same way – all from North Central. appear to be in a dilemma both Chief Bisi Akande and From the North West are a over its choice for national Comrade Adams Oshiomhole former governor of Zamfara Miraculous Night Journey chairmanship candidate, even had used up the slot of the ACN. State, Yari Aziz and Senator though the party leadership With that account, the legacy Lawal Shuaibu, while those is believed to have agreed in party left to produce the chairman from the North East are former Syed Abul Ala Maududi/IslamiCity information intuitively. In our view, the words of principle to zone the office to of the party is the CPC and with Borno State governors, Alli Modu the experience or a dream vision, was an actual North-central. stakeholders agreeing to zone it Sheriff and Kashim Shettima, as Following is the translation of the first verse of journey, and the observation in question was a Currently, stakeholders are said to North Central, the decision well as Mallam Kashim Imam, chapter 17, Al-Israa, from the Quran that refers to visual observation. All was contingent upon God’s to be looking the way of North has further narrowed the likely a Borno-born top politician. this journey, followed by a detailed explanation will that truths be revealed to the Prophet (PBUH) Central as the next to produce contenders to a few individuals However, because of the search of the verse by Sayyid Abul Ala Mawdudi. in this fashion. the chairman of the party, in from the zone. “Holy is He Who carried His servant by night Now, let us consider the matter carefully. The for a new identity for the party from the Holy Mosque (in Makka) to the farther Quran tells us, in clear terms, that the Prophet addition to which of the legacy Leading the pack are two particularly, the need to change Mosque (in Jerusalem) - whose surroundings We (PBUH), went from Makka to Jerusalem and then parties is best to lead the party. former governors of Nasarawa the obnoxious narrative that’s have blessed - that We might show him some returned to Makka during the night (obviously, By this development, what it State, Senators Tanko Al-Makura currently defining the ruling of Our signs. Indeed He alone is All-Hearing, without the use of anything resembling an aircraft), means is that the APC would and Abdulahi Adamu; former APC, some members of the party All-Seeing. (Quran 17:1)” owing to God’s power. Now, if we believe this to have its presidential candidate Minister of Agriculture, Audu are vehemently opposed to the This is a reference to the event known as Mi’raj be possible, what justification can there be to reject from the south, a situation, which Ogbeh and former Benue State idea of recycling old hands but (Ascension) and Isra’ (Night Journey). According as inherently impossible the additional details of also appears given, since the open to embracing a new and to most traditions - and especially the authentic the event mentioned in the traditional sources? current president, Muhammadu CHANGE OF NAME fresh mind. ones - this event took place one year before Hijrah. Statements declaring certain acts to be possible Buhari, a northerner, would be I, formerly known and ad- Detailed reports about it are found in the works and others to be beyond the range of possibility serving out his eight years in dressed as GLADYS ELUME- of Hadith and Sirah and have been narrated from are understandable if these acts are deemed to 2023. ZE now wish to be known and Bill Seeking Life as many as twenty-five Companions. The most have been performed by creatures in exercise of While practically all the new addressed as ISHIE GLADYS exhaustive reports are those from Anas ibn Malik, the natural powers with which they are endowed. PDP members had left the APC OKAH. Pension for Ex-govs Malik ibn Sa’sa’ah, Abu Dharr al-Ghifari and Abu However, when it is clearly stated that it is All documents remain valid. Hurayrah. Some other details have been narrated God Who did something out of His power, any and returned to their former General public should please party, the ANPP had taken its Scales First Reading at by ‘Umar, ‘Ali, ‘Abd Allah ibn Mas’ud, ‘Abd Allah doubts about the possibility of these acts can be take note. ibn Abbas, Abu Sa’id al-Khudri, Hudhayfah ibn entertained only by those who do not believe God CHANGE OF NAME I, formerly known and addressed Enugu Assembly al-Yaman, and ‘A’ishah among other Companions to be all-powerful. as ESTHER DANIEL NKANTA of the Prophet (PBUH). Those who reject the Hadith as such raise several I, formerly known and addressed now wish to be known and ad- A bill for a law to provide life The Quran here only mentions that the Prophet objections against the traditions concerning this as MISS GABRIEL MOTUN- dressed as MARIA KINGSLEY pension for former governors (PBUH) was taken from the Ka’bah to the mosque incident. It seems that only two of these objections RAYO CHRISTY now wish to FRIDAY UKPONG. and deputy governors of Enugu in Jerusalem, and specifies that the purpose of are worth of any consideration. be known and addressed as All documents remain valid. Gen- State has scaled through the first the journey was such that God might “show First, it is claimed that the contents of the traditions MRS OPAWOLE MOTUNRAYO eral public should please take reading at the State House of him some of His signs”. Beyond this, The Quran relating to the Ascension imply that God is confined CHRISTY. All documents remain note. does not concern itself with any detail. However, to a particular place. For had that not been the valid. General public should Assembly please take note. I, formerly known and addressed The Executive bill, which was according to Hadith reports, Gabriel took the Prophet case, it is argued there would have been no need as MISS AGNES OCHEFIJE UJAH presented for first reading during (PBUH) at night from the Ka’bah to the mosque to transport the Prophet (PBUH) in order for him I, formerly known and addressed now wish to be known and addressed the plenary in Enugu yesterday, in Jerusalem on a buraq. On reaching Jerusalem to experience the presence of God. Second, it is as OKORIE NWABUEZE now as MRS AGNES OCHEFIJE UJAH sought to provide pension for the the Prophet (PBUH) along with other Prophets questionable whether the Prophet (PBUH) was wish to be known and addressed CHUKWUEMEKA OGUAMAH. All offered Prayers. (Al-Nasa’i, Sunan, K. al-Salah, enabled to observe Heaven and Hell and to see governor and his deputy after ‘Bab Fard al-Salah wa Dhikr Ikhtilaf al-Naqilin...’ people being chastised for their sins even though as NWACHUKWU IKECHUKWU documents remain valid. General serving their tenure in office. EZEKIEL. All documents remain -Ed.) Gabriel then took him to the heavens and they had not yet been judged by God. How is it that public should please take note. The piece of legislation would the Prophet (PBUH) met several great Prophets in people were subjected to punishment even before valid. General public should make a former governor or please take note. different heavenly spheres. (See al-Nasa’i, Sunan, the coming of that Day when all will be judged? I, formerly known and addressed deputy governor entitled to K. al-Salah, ‘Bab Fard al-Salah’ - Ed.) Finally, he Both these objections, however, carry little as PRINCESS EKINADOSE This is to notify the general gratuity as well as pension for reached the highest point in the heavens and was substance, The first objection is to be rejected on BEADY now wish to be known life at the expense of the state the grounds that although the Creator is infinite public that I, DUMLE FRIDAY- and addressed as PRINCESS graced with an experience of the Divine Presence. PELE Henceforth, wishes to ROSELINE CLAIRE NWADIA- government. On that occasion the Prophet (PBUH) received and transcends both time and place, yet in dealing be known and addressed as RU. All documents remain valid. The bill also made provision a number of directives including that Prayers with His creatures He has to have recourse to the DUMLE DAMLUKA. All docu- General public should please for medical allowance not were obligatory five times a day. (Al-Bukhari, K. means which are finite and are circumscribed by ments bearing all names re- take note. exceeding N12million per Manaqib al -Ansar, ‘Bab al-Mi’raj ; K. al-Tawhid, time-space limitations. This is because of the inherent main valid. The general public annum for one surviving spouse, ‘Bab Kallama Musa Taklima’ - Ed.) Thereafter, limitations of man. Hence when God speaks to His I, formerly known and addressed should please take note. provided that such spouse was the Prophet (PBUH) returned from the heavens creatures, He employs, of necessity, the same means as EREKOSIMA ORIBITIEN I, formerly known and addressed married to the governor while to Jerusalem, and from there to the Holy Mosque of communication which can be comprehensible to now wish to be known and ad- as MRS EFE AKPOTU EFANG- in office. in Makka. Numerous reports on the subject reveal the latter even though His Own speech transcends dressed as EREKOSIMA ORIBI- that the Prophet (PBUH) was also enabled on this the means employed in the speech. In like fashion, WU now wish to be known and TIEN ALALIBO. All documents While the state government occasion to observe Heaven and Hell. (Al-Bukhari, when God wants to show someone the signs of addressed as MRS EFE EFANG- remain valid. General public would provide adequate security K. al_Salah, ‘Bab Kayfa Furidat al-Salah fi al-Isra’ His vast kingdom, He takes him to certain places WU. All documents remain valid. should please take note. for the former governors for their and Ibn Hisham, Sirah, vol. I, p. 404 - Ed.) and enables him to observe whatever he is required General public should please lifetime, the bill, when passed, It may be recalled that according to authentic to observe. For it is beyond the power of man to take note. I, formerly known and ad- would also mandate the state reports when the Prophet (PBUH) narrated the view the universe in the manner God can. While dressed as EZINNE ONY- government to provide three incidents of this extraordinary journey the following God does not stand in need of visiting a certain I, formerly known and ad- INYE DIVINE now wish to vehicles for the ex-governor and day to the people in Makka, the unbelievers found place in order to observe something that exists dressed as ADISA RACHE- be known and addressed as replace them every four years. the whole narration utterly amusing. (Muslim, K, there, man does need to do so. The same holds AL IDAYAT now wish to be OKAFOR ONYINYE DIVINE. al-Iman, ‘Bab Dhikr al-Masih ibn Maryam’ - Ed.) true of having a direct encounter with the Creator. known and addressed as All documents remain valid. In fact, even the faith of some Muslims was shaken Although God is not confined to a particular place, OBASA RACHEAL IDAYA. General public should please because of the highly extraordinary nature of the man needs to experience His presence at a defined All documents remain valid. take note. INEC: We Won’t place where the effulgence of His Being might be General public should please account. (See Ibn Hisham, Sirah, vol. I, p.398 and take note. I, formerly known and ad- Transfer Polling al-Qurtubi, comments on verse 1 of the surah - Ed.) focused. For it is beyond man’s power to encounter dressed as ANI OBINNA. The details of the event provided by the Hadith God in His limitlessness. I, formerly known and addressed now wish to be known and supplement the Quranic account. There is no Let us now consider the second objection. That as MISS OKUNWOBI NIMOTALAI Centres between LGs reason, however, to reject all this supplementary too is fallacious for the simple reason that the addressed as ANI OKORO- Chuks Okocha in Abuja objects shown to the Prophet (PBUH) represented, ATINUKE now wish to be known AFOR OBINNA. All documents information on the grounds that it is opposed to and addressed as BABATUNDE NI- the Quran. Nevertheless, if someone is not quite in symbolic form, certain truths. For instance, a remain valid. General public The Independent National convinced and hence does not accept some of the mischievous statement has allegorically been MOTALAI ATINUKE. All documents should please take note. remain valid. General public should Electoral Commission (INEC) details concerning the Ascension mentioned in the represented by a fat ox that could not return via please take note. yesterday hinted of the Hadith as true, he should not be considered an the small hole through which it had come. (See Ibn I, DAMILOLA AIGBOKHAI OKHU- guidelines to be expected in unbeliever. On the contrary, if someone were to Kathir, Tafsir, comments on Bani Isra’il 17:1 - Ed.) MOYA, my names was wrongly I, formerly known and addressed the expansion of polling centres, clearly deny any part of the account categorically Or the other allegory relating to those who indulge as MISS ADERONKE AYINKE written as DAMI AIGBOKHAI explaining that there would be mentioned in the Quran, he would be deemed to in fornication - that they prefer to eat rotten meat ADEWALE now wish to be OKHUMOYA instead of DAMILOLA no transfer of polling stations have gone beyond the fold of Islam. when fresh, clean meat is available to them. (Loc. known and addressed as PROF. AIGBOKHAI OKHUMOYA. All for- among local government areas. What was the nature of this journey? Did it take cit ; see also Ibn Hisham, vol. 1 p. 406 - Ed.) The ADERONKE AYINKE ADEPO- mer documents remain valid, NIN The commission also said the place when the Prophet (PBUH) was asleep or same holds true for the punishments to which JU-BELLO. All documents re- and the general public should please when he was awake? Did he actually undertake sinners will be subjected in the Next Life - they take note. maximum for all polling centres main valid. General public should within the expansion of polling a journey in the physical sense or did he have a are anticipatory representations of the sufferings to please take note. CORRECTION OF NAME centres would be between 750 spiritual vision while remaining in his own place? which they will be subjected in the Life to Come. These questions, in our view, have been resolved by The main point which needs to be appreciated I, formerly known and ad- This is to notify the general public that the and 1,000 voters. bearer of these names MR ROWLAND INEC also said the expansion the text of the Quran itself. The opening statement: regarding the Ascension is that it belongs to a dressed as MISS VIVIAN TOMIWA AIYESORO, MR ROLAND “Holy is He Who carried His servant by night from genre of experience through which each Prophet AKUNNA OPARA now wish TOMIWA AIYESORO, & MR ROWLAND would not confer any advantage to be known and addressed TOMIWA AIYETORO, refers to one and to any political party or socio- the Holy Mosque to the farther Mosque..” (verse is enabled to observe- consonant with his standing as MRS. VIVIAN AKUNNA the same person. Henceforth, I wish to be cultural organisation, explaining 1) itself indicates that it was an extraordinary event and mission - aspects of God’s dominion of the CHIDI. All documents remain known and addressed as MR ROLAND that it would only help to which took place by dint of the infinite power of heavens and the earth. Once the material barriers TOMIWA AIYETORO. All documents bear- to the normal vision of human beings are removed, valid. General public should ing these names remain valid. The general decongest the polling centres. God. For quite obviously, to be able to perceive the please take note. public should please take note These were the high points kind of things mentioned in connection with the it becomes possible to view physically, the realities event, either in a dream or by means of intuition, is which the Prophets are required to summon others I, formerly known and addressed as I, ABI-KALIO BELEMA do hereby clarify of the address by the INEC not so wondrous that it should be prefaced by the to believe in as part of faith in the Unseen. This that the name in my JAMB, Oct. 10, 2014, National Commissioner in charge MISS TOSIN FAITH AKINYELE, Ref. No.: ADMSS for UTME 001031599, statement: “Holy is He Who carried His servant by is done in order to distinguish the Prophets from MRS TOSIN FAITH AIYESORO, now Reg. No.: 47213820HE, Exam. No.: of voter education and Chairman, night...”; a statement which amounts to proclaiming mere speculative philosophers. wish to be known and addressed as C11209349 was wrongly captured as ABI- Information and Publicity of the that God was free from every imperfection and Note: Buraq was the name of the heavenly KALIO BELEME instead of ABI-KALIO commission, Festus Okoye, at MRS TOSIN FAITH AIYETORO. All BELEMA. Henceforth, my correct name is flaw. Such a statement would make absolutely no steed on which the Prophet (PBUH) rode on his documents remain valid. The general ABI-KALIO BELEMA. The document bear- the staff workshop organised by sense if the purpose of it was merely to affirm that nocturnal journey from Makka to Jerusalem, and public should please take note ing my wrong name remain valid. The gen- International Funds for Elector God had the power to enable man to have either then to the heavens (For this nocturnal journey eral public should please take note. Supports (IFES). visions in the course of a dream, or to receive q.v. Mi’raj.) FRIDAY MARCH 12, 2021 ˾THISDAY 47

Group Sports Editor Duro Ikhazuagbe Email [email protected] FRIDAYSPORTS 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY FIFA Council Seat: Pinnick on the Cusp of History Duro Ikhazuagbe the right group that has winners, the Anglophone president of his country’s more interesting. produced South African will be the most competitive FA. Zetchi will now slug it out Nigeria’s Amaju Melvin Billionaire Patrice Motsepe as the competitors are Others are from Kenya for a position in that bloc Pinnick, is one of the 14 as the CAF President in almost half of the entire and Tanzania. Nicholas with the likes of, Equatorial football administrators waiting, even before the 14 in the race. Mwendwa was reelected Guinea FA President, from Africa gunning for votes are counted today. Apart from the Gambian, as Kenya FA president last Gustavo Ndong; Morocco the six seats allotted to the All the other candidates Pinnick also have a current October while Wallace Karia FA President, Fouzi Lekjaa continent in the 37-member like Jacque Anouma (Côte seating FIFA Council is the Tanzanian FA chief. and the former Egypt FA FIFA Council at today’s CAF d’Ivoire), Augustine Senghor member to contend with. Both Mwenwa and Karia President, Hany Abo Rida, elections in Rabat, Morocco. (Senegal) and Ahmed He is Malawi FA President, are serving second terms The FIFA Council Before arriving in the Yahya (Mauritania) have all Walter Nyamilandu. in their various countries. consists of 37 members: North African city for the withdrawn for Motsepe to The power of incumbency In the Arab/Portuguese/ one President, elected by election on Monday, Pinnick become Ahmad’s successor. cannot be underestimated. Spanish bloc, Algerian the FIFA Congress; eight took his campaign round Motsepe’s position is Also in the race is candidate, Khireddine Zetchi vice presidents, and 28 key figures in African also a done deal as FIFA Zambia’s Andrew Kamanga. who was cleared by CAS other members elected by football to ensure he comes Vice President. That Like Pinnick, Nyamilandu with just few days to the member associations – each Amaju Pinnick...on the verge of out victorious to become position is reserved for and Bajo, he is also the election has made the drama for a term of four years. history making in Rabat the third Nigerian ever to continental presidents and occupy that seat after the the Mamelodi Sundowns late Etubom Oyo Orok Oyo financier will become an and Dr Amos Adamu took automatic Council member their turns on that exalted as soon as he’s ‘coronated’ position. today in Rabat. Of course, the Delta-born It however remains to be Pinnick who is serving seen how Pinnick’s affiliation his first term as a CAF with Motsepe’s camp with Executive Committee rub off positively to make member, appears to the Nigerian federation chief understand the undercurrent to have a roller coaster ride of global football politics to the exalted post. and the many banana peels Of the 14 persons running everywhere. for the FIFA Council seats, He proved this in the last six persons including CAF elections that ousted Pinnick will battle for incumbent Isa Hayatou from only two slots reserved power after almost three for the Anglophone in decades in charge of African the continent. Gambian football in 2017. FA President, Lamin Kaba Pinnick was the rallying Bajo, is in the race against point and the driver of the Pinnick. young Turks that sealed The six seats are spread victory for outgoing Ahmad. along linguistic divide – This time around, the Anglophone, Francophone NFF chief who is aiming and the Arab/Portuguese/ for a bigger pie appears to Spanish group. Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress have been promised quality friendlies ahead of the Tokyo Olympic Games have done his homework Of the three groups which well, pitching his tent with will each produce two Aruna Shifts Focus to Tokyo 2020 Qualifying Tournament TOKYO OLYMPICS Quadri Aruna will be train up to 10 days before proceed to stage two where making another attempt heading to the competition one final spot is available. at picking his slot at the and that means I was no The losing finalist and NBBF Plans Quality Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games even at my full best. I am semi-finalists from each of when the World Singles optimistic that I can be part the three knockout rounds Friendlies for Qualification Tournament of the four players that will will then be drawn into one (WSQT) begins at the Ali make it to Tokyo from the final knockout round where D’Tigers, D’Tigress Bin Hamad Al Attiya Arena qualifiers,” he said. the winner will eventually in Doha, Qatar. Kenya, Congo Brazzaville qualify for the singles event The Nigeria Basketball Kida said, “The teams 73 men and 60 women and Algeria are among the at the Tokyo Olympics. Federation (NBBF) has will be facing some will be aiming for the nine African countries competing For the women’s singles, assured stakeholders in quality oppositions from slots available at the four-day in the qualifying tournament four spots are available for the sport that the country’s different continents and tournament which begins for Tokyo 2020 in Qatar. qualification in stage one. senior men and women’s it is expedient that we on Sunday March 14 to 17. According to International Entries will be split into four teams will face quality get them teams that will Aruna who is one of the Table Tennis Federation knockouts starting from the oppositions as part of their provide something close listed players and among (ITTF), in the men’s round of 16, with the winner preparations for the 2020 to what they are going to the top seeds had used the singles qualification, three of each knockout qualifying Olympic Games in Tokyo, see in Tokyo.” WTT Contender Series and Aruna Quadri...eyes on Tokyo spots will be available for for the singles event at the Japan in summer. Kida reiterated that the Star Contender as warm-ups qualification in stage one Tokyo Olympics. While briefing members teams are not going to the for the qualification and he players heading to Japan while entries will be split The losing finalist from of the board during their Olympics just to add to the will hoping to pick one of in July. into three knockout rounds, each of the four knockouts first meeting of the year number of teams, hence the four slots for grab in “I am happy that after starting from the round of will proceed to stage two held on Wednesday, the the need for a thorough the men’s singles. resting for some days 32, with the winner of each where one final spot is at federation President, Musa preparation. With a quarterfinal finish following the injury I knockout round qualifying stake. The losing finalist from Kida, said no stone will be “We have not decided at the WTT Contender Series sustained while playing for the singles event at the each of the four knockouts left unturned to get the on the countries to play and Round 16 finish at the for my club in the German Tokyo Olympics. will be drawn into one final teams properly prepared against, but in the coming WTT Star Contender, the Bundesliga, I was able to The losing finalist and knockout where the winner for the Olympiad. weeks, we will finalise all Nigerian will be hoping perform well at the WTT semi-finalist from each of will qualify for the singles “We have received some arrangements and make to join the league of elite Tournaments. I did not the three knockouts will then event at the Tokyo Olympics. invites for friendlies from the big announcements”. countries from Europe, Both teams ranked America and Africa. We number one in Africa 20th National Sports Festival Gets New Dates are currently going through emerged as the only these requests to pick the team sport flying the The 20th National Sports In a letter to all the 36 Peter Nelson, the three-time ceremony scheduled for the best for our teams.” country’s flag in Tokyo Festival scheduled to hold in states and the Federal postponed Festival is to kick refurbished Samuel Ogbemudia Benin City, Edo State, is now Capital Territory and signed off with the opening of the Stadium is to hold on April Explaining the yardsticks after an unprecedented to begin on April 2 and run by the Secretary of the Main Games Village on April 2 and 3. 4 and competitions rounded for these friendlies, qualification. through April 14. Organising Committee (MOC), The official openingup on April 14. T RU N Friday March 12, 2021TH & REASO Price: N250 MISSILE Book Your Group to Malami COVID-19 Tests & Vaccinations “The Att orney General’s contention that the federal government is the victim TEXT‘COVID’ TO58123 of the crime, not Delta State, simply because the processes associated with the recovery were consummated by the federal government is a dubious interpretation of the law.” – League of Professionals for Strategic Advocacy faulting the position of the This service is provided in association with accredited service providers federal government on the £4.2m being repatriated by UK to Nigeria. ISSAAREMU GUEST COLUMNIST Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: Beyond Gender “I feel ready to go.” Massachusetts Institute of Technology where the World Bank) established in 1944. WTO -Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala she bagged PhD in Regional Economics and hitherto General Agreement on Tariffs and Development Economics. Trade (GATT), commenced in 1948. That n the 1st of March, a good working In 2012, she ran a controversial but audacious was almost two decades before Nigeria and Monday, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, campaign for the presidency of the World most African countries got independence. So former Finance Minister and the Bank, insisting that the plumb job almost by what difference can an African leadership of fi rst woman and African to be design reserved for Americans (Americans an organisation formed in spite of, (without!) appointed as Director-General alone! IMF for Europeans) be made open to Africa make? It’s gratifying listening to Dr Oof the World Trade Organisation (WTO) competition, (the mantra of global market Ngozi unfolding her vision at the 2021 Lagos resumed her fi rst day of work as WTO chief. economy even when observed in the breach ‘Ehingbeti’ Economic Summit. In welcoming her, the trade organisation said: in the global institutions). Two term Minister “Majority of Africans are still exporting “Welcome to Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, on her of Finance and Foreign Affairs under President primary products like fossil fuels, minerals fi rst day as WTO Director-General! She makes , she returned from the (diamonds, tin, copper) or agriculture products history as the fi rst woman and fi rst African World Bank to take up an expanded position (cocoa and coffee). We have to get from a position to take up this post.” She assumes offi ce in as Coordinating Minister for the Economy of where we are exporting raw materials to a an interesting times when glass ceilings are and Minister of Finance. She was de facto an position where we are adding more value.” being shattered into some smithereens. The unoffi cial “Prime Minister” in a presidential She spoke the mind of few African compatriots fi rst interplanetary (Hope) mission of United system! As a student of development and still standing. It’s time that Africa and Africans Arab Emirates (UAE) landed on planet labour market economics, I marvel at how got strategic with WTO to make sure that Mars on Tuesday February 9, 2021, fi rst Arab Madam Ngozi is “over- employed” with serial trade becomes a means of re-industrialisation nation to announce an ambition to be on the appointments and elective offi ces in a continent of Africa and not underdevelopment. There moon in 2024. A returnee from that historic of open 50 per cent youth unemployment! must be alternative trade policies that would mission to the Mars, reading the global print Okonjo-Iweala Her relative ease of labour market entry factor the needs of working people around media coverage of the election of Dr Ngozi It’s been a challenging journey for Ngozi and exit with tenacity of purpose still tasks the world, inclusive of economic growth and Okonjo-Iweala as the seventh Director General Okonjo-Iweala also. The opposition of Triumph imagination of labour market students. When sustainable development. of World Trade Organisation (WTO) would administration against her candidacy was an she left the World Bank for Jonathan’s cabinet, The history of WTO in Africa in many have rightly assumed the unprecedented feat open knowledge but she refused to be distracted President Robert Zoellick then World Bank, respects fostered de-industrialisation and job was an affi rmative global action that privileged by the antics of the administration of almost said: “Her desire to serve her country is truly losses through uncritical wholesale dismantling a Nigerian-American mother: Ngozi Iweala! twice impeached America’s “Commander-In- a big loss for the World Bank but a major gain of protection for domestic industries. “New WTO Head Becomes First Woman and Diversions”. Nogozi showed that when the for Nigeria as it works to craft its economic The emergence of Dr Ngozi was in the African to Lead Global Trade Body” reads going is tough only the determined remains as way forward”. Very few have so many referees fullest of time in a pandemic when the African most headlines! Happily UAE’s interplanetary focused. I agree with the Rights activist, Dr Joe with good jobs in waiting, jobs in deferment, Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) (Hope) mission is unmanned. Thank God, no Okei-Odumakin, that Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala jobs in bid! But not without amazing stories involving 54 African countries in one economic returnee would suffer foolery. The reportage is “a dogged person”. of adversities of frightening dimensions too. trading zone with a combined population of of Ngozi’s victory had inadvertently triggered Other women and indeed men who are eager The “2020 African of the Year” told Africa more than one billion people combined gross a variant of what I call “Ellen-Johnson Sirleaf to follow their footsteps must realise that there Forbes magazine in November last year: domestic product of more than US$3.4 trillion media syndrome” which often manifests in the is a long walk to victory. Dr Okonjo Iweala, “My mother was kidnapped and held for is new normal. male dominated global media once a woman brings to the table 40 years of struggle and fi ve days when I was Finance Minister. The In her acceptance speech, Okonjo-Iweala breaks the glass ceiling erected in the fi rst place persistence to succeed and excel even when Kidnappers thought that killing me would said one of her top priorities would be to by the men! Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is the 2011 it’s seemed impossible until it’s done as the be too merciful and wanted to paralyse me work with members “to quickly address the Winner of Nobel Peace prize. In 2005, she late Nelson Mandela puts it. Of course gender for the rest of my life. When you are fi ghting economic and health consequences brought won the historic Liberian presidential election is part of Iweala‘s success story. Reaching the powerful people who are corrupt, they fi ght about by the Covid-19 pandemic”. to become the 24th President of Liberia. The zenith is not a preserve of men and that women back in very dangerous ways”. “A strong WTO is vital if we are to recover headlines passed for some ecstasies, akin to can run a worthy campaign for elective offi ces Ngozi truly dares to make a change with fully and rapidly from the devastation wrought some hysteria: “The Iron- Lady takes charge in better than some men. Indeed her success all the attendant risks in a country of elitist by the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said. Liberia”, “Age of Women”, “Women are coming”, glamours this year’s International Women least resistance and petty grumblings. But the WTO under the leadership of an African ad infi nitum. Of course Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Day celebration on the March 8th. She also critical question begging for answer is: what must make a difference by ensuring that trade is a woman. A proud mother of four children proudly dedicates the record achievement to impact is she going to make in an organisation, serves the purpose of wider growth, as well and grandchildren. Certainly she is truly the women. However her main strength is soft under whose watch international trade has as industrialisation and mass jobs’ creation fi rst female democratically elected President in (knowledge) power. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala among others, deepened what UN Secretary on the basis of respect for workers and their Africa. But notwithstanding the importance of is a product of the best of public education, General dubbed “inequality pandemic”? Like rights. It’s good news that the new DG of gender, the obsession with gender dimension home and abroad. She is a multiple degree the International Bank for Reconstruction WTO is passionate about decent jobs for the of Johnson’s Presidency, (no less the global holder from branded universities: Harvard and and Development (the original name of youths of Africa. The best support Africans can elevation of Dr Ngozi) pointed to our readiness give their own is a peaceful and productive to undervalue the participation of women in continent that would facilitate international governance and belittle their achievements made It’s good news that the new DG of WTO and continental trade for empowerment and in spite their gender. In a continent in which value addition. Senseless banditry, proxy wars it is easier to transfer power and wealth to is passionate about decent jobs for of attrition must give way to partnership for male child than to a wife and female child, development (goal 17 of SDG 2030!). female presidency/headship of a global trade the youths of Africa. The best support “My education was truncated by the Nigerian clearing house understandably captures the Biafra War. We were in the war for three years gender imagination. But, the point cannot be Africans can give their own is a peaceful and this was something that really opened overemphasised: Ellen Sirleaf’s democratic my eyes. It started when I was just entering victory was a product of her direct political and productive continent that would my teens and fi nished when I was in my engagement of trial and error spanning decades, mid-teens. It was a harrowing time, two of political contestation and cooperation, political facilitate international and continental the three years I didn’t go to school.” adversities in forms of vicious harassments, How many “Ngozis” were lost to the imprisonments, missed assassinations and forced avoidable confl icts in Africa are better imagined. exile, national commitment and international trade for empowerment and value And better too, how many female African exposure. She was declared the winner on “fi rsts” await the continent with sustainable the November 23, 2005, as the candidate of addition. Senseless banditry, proxy wars peace and development? Unity Party. But that was after an acrimonious run-off with a professional footballer, George of attrition must give way to partnership Aremu is a Member, National Institute Weah who she defeated in 59 per cent to vote for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos 40 per cent vote counts. for development (goal 17 of SDG 2030!) and Vice President Industrial Global Union Printed and Published in Lagos by THISDAY Newspapers Limited. Lagos: 35 Creek Road, Apapa, Lagos. Abuja: Plot 1, Sector Centre B, Jabi Business District, Solomon Lar Way, Jabi North East, Abuja . All Correspondence to POBox 54749, Ikoyi, Lagos. EMAIL: [email protected], [email protected]. TELEPHONE Lagos: 0802 2924721-2, 08022924485. Abuja: Tel: 08155555292, 08155555929 24/7 ADVERTISING HOT LINES: 0811 181 3085 0811 181 3086, 0811 181 3087, 0811 181 3088, 0811 181 3089, 0811 181 3090. ENQUIRIES & BOOKING: [email protected]