Kyari: Host Communities to Get $500m Annually from New PIA New petroleum Act marks beginning of full deregulation Emmanuel Addeh and nerves among some indigenes of (NDDC) currently gets. communities could earn as much communities, which are mostly legislation ensures that they largely James Emejo in Abuja oil producing communities in the Speaking when he appeared as $500 million yearly if the trend in the Niger Delta. control their funds and projects in Niger Delta, maintaining that the on Arise Television, THISDAY’s continues. The GMD noted that whereas the communities. The Group Managing Director of three per cent approved under the broadcast arm, Kyari noted The new law mandates the the oil-producing communities Kyari said although in the past the Nigerian National Petroleum new Petroleum Industry Act could that given about $16 billion payment of three per cent of oil could not determine what projects there were attempts to make sure Corporation (NNPC), Mallam Mele be bigger than what the Niger total expenditure by the oil companies' operating expenses in would be located in their areas Kyari, yesterday calmed frayed Delta Development Commission and gas sector last year, host oil the previous year to the host oil before now, from now on, the new Continued on page 10

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Tuesday 17 August, 2021 Vol 26. No 9626. Price: N250

www.thisdaylive.com T RU N TH & REASO Expect More Intervention Projects in 2022, FG Assures N’Deltans Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja and faster ways of delivering the youth corps members’ lodge staff in Housing and Urban compliments the effort. centre as one of the gains and dividends to the people of the and viewing centre constructed Development Department A statement issued by achievements recorded under The federal government has told region. by his ministry in Koroma of the ministry, Mr. Ephraim the Director, Press/PR in the 'change agenda' of President people of the Niger Delta region Minister of Niger Delta Tai Community, Tai Local Brigid, urged the community to the Ministry of Niger Delta Muhammadu Buhari. to expect more intervention Affairs, Senator Godswill Government of Rivers State. be dedicated to the protection Affairs, Patricia Deworitshe, He urged the Niger projects in 2022, declaring that it Akpabio stated this during the Akpabio, who was and maintenance of the facilities quoted the minister as Delta region to expect more commissioning/handing over of represented by a management in their area as government describing the lodge/viewing was passionately seeking better Continued on page 8 Watershed Moment, As Buhari Signs Petroleum Act to Overhaul Oil Industry Senate President, Speaker, OPEC, NEITI, industry stakeholders hail new legislation PDP, PANDEF, IJC kick against Act, condemn assent, say President has demonstrated he is not a listening leader The legislation which has suffered Deji Elumoye, Chuks Okocha, several setbacks since 2008, when it Emmanuel Addeh, was first presented to the National Udora Orizu in Abuja and Assembly, aims at removing legal Olusegun Samuel in Yenagoa and regulatory uncertainties that have held back the industry’s In a historic move yesterday, growth. President Muhammadu Buhari The Petroleum Industry Act signed into law the Petroleum (PIA) provides legal, governance, Industry Bill (PIB), a piece of regulatory and fiscal framework for legislation that will serve as the the Nigerian petroleum industry, the framework for the operations in development of host communities, the oil and gas industry. Continued on page 10 Biden Defends Afghanistan Policy Amid A NEW ERA BEGINS... Mounting Criticism of Withdrawal... Page 58 President Muhammadu Buhari signing the Petroluem Industry Bill into law at the Presidential Villa , Abuja ....yesterday PHOTO: GODWIN OMOIGUI 2 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 3 4 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 5 6 TUESDAY, 
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THISDAY

Group News Editor: Goddy Egene NEWS Email: [email protected], 0803 350 6821, 0809 7777 322

APC GOVERNORS COMMISERATE WITH THE ABIODUNS… Jigawa State Governor, Abubakar Badaru; Kebbi State governor, Atiku Bagudu; host governor Dapo Abiodun and Governor of Yobe State, Mai Bunu when All Progressives Congress chieftains paid a condolence visit to the Abioduns on the demise of their patriarch, Dr Emmanuel Abiodun, at their family house in Iperu on Monday NEF to Buhari, Lalong: Reactions to Jos Killings Must Produce Immediate Results Gov promises not to allow violence degenerate into religious Crisis NLC, NGO, northern group condemn attacks Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Adedayo results in arrests and prosecutions. deteriorating security situation in against God, humanity and the act of barbarism and criminality," left on the scene over the last Akinwale in Abuja, Segun James Under no circumstances must this our country. There is no gainsaying laws of the Federal Republic of he added. decade to exploit the huge vacuum in Lagos and Seriki Adinoyi in Jos heinous crime be ignored or treated the fact that we are really living Nigeria by agents of darkness, who The Coalition of Northern in the government’s political will as routine." in dangerous times in Nigeria. perpetrated this evil act and insist Groups, while addressing a press and capacity to arrest the escalation The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) The Forum, therefore, called the "We commiserate with the that they must be fished out to face conference on Monday in Abuja, of avoidable conflicts. has condemned the recent attack attention of leaders at all levels families of the victims of this the full wrath of the law at all cost through its spokesperson, Mr. "We categorically warn the and killing of travelers in Jos North, to the increasing vulnerability of heinous crime and we pray for within the confines of the law." Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, expressed perpetrators of such highway Plateau State, saying the reactions Nigerians to armed criminality and repose on the souls of the faithful Ekujumi, however, commended shock that unarmed Muslims, who murders and their sponsors that of President Muhammadu Buhari deteriorating relations among many departed". the security agencies, especially, were in a convoy of five buses were people's patience has reached the and Governor Simon Lalong of communities. NLC said whatever was the operatives of Operation Safe Haven waylaid at Rukaba, Jos, forced to point where any further ambush Plateau State, must produce It said it was important that the motivation for the barbaric and and the Nigeria Police, whom, he disembark and dozens of them and attack would not be tolerated immediate results in the arrests and citizens were made to feel safer atrocious murder of the 22 innocent said monitored and responded killed in cold blood. henceforth. prosecutions of the perpetrators. and more secure and that every travellers was totally unacceptable promptly to distress call in reducing The group noted that the latest "We demand thorough But Lalong, on Monday, Nigerian must be made to know and condemnable, adding that the the carnage by rescuing some of incident of highway ambush and investigation, arrest and diligent described the killings as an act that there would be consequences incident was another sign that the the victims and accessing them killings by the criminals was prosecution of the criminals that of criminality that must not be for their actions, or the country country was steadily losing her medical assistance. not an isolated case but part of blocked and killed innocent allowed to degenerate into a would sink deeper into lawlessness humanity. "We must also commend a coordinated mega plot to give travelers on such public highways religious crisis. and anarchy. The CPPM in a statement by its President Muhammadu Buhari the crisis a religious coloration to as the Rukuba junction in Gada Also, the Nigeria Labour Lalong, while on an on-the- Executive Chairman, Mr. Nelson and Governor Simon Lalong for cause greater conflict in the North. biyu, Abuja and Barikin Ladi Congress (NLC), a Non- spot assessment of the affected Ekujumi, also lamented the action. their prompt condemnation and It lamented that the main roads in Plateau State and other Governmental Organisation, areas alongside the head of the "We are indeed saddened and directives to security agencies to actors in the perpetuated highway locations in Kaduna and Benue Committee for the Protection of Inspector General Special Squad, traumatised by this heinous crime fish out the perpetrators of this ambushes and killings have been States," it stated. Peoples Mandate (CPPM) and a DIG Sanusi Lemu, said, "We in Northern association,, the Coalition Plateau want to continue to stay of Northern Groups (CNG) have in peace but criminal elements condemned the development, while are always working to take us Compensate Families of Those You Killed at the same time demanded arrest backward. and prosecution of those behind “Attacks on innocent citizens, the dastardly acts. no matter their religions or or Face Legal Action, Masari Tells Customs However, the Northern Elders backgrounds will never be tolerated Forum, in its intervention, warned in Plateau State and those who are that under no circumstances must found to be behind such attacks As lawmaker accuses agency of killing 25 people in Katsina the heinous crime be ignored or will be dealt with decisively to Francis Sardauna in Katsina operatives of the NCS, while are not check points but toll-gates. this kind of behaviour like the way treated as a routine. serve as deterrant, and to restore pursuing suspected smugglers in You are making life miserable for we are experiencing in Katsina". Director of Publicity and public order. The Katsina State Governor, Aminu Jibia Lacal Government, on Aug people you suppose to serve. Dr. Bashir Ruwan-Godiya, who Advocacy of the Forum, Dr. "We would ensure that those Bello Masari, on Monday, directed 9, 2021, lost control and killed 10 "You are pursuing somebody on spoke on behave of Civil Society Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, in a arrested are made to face the full the Nigerian Customs Service to persons and injured 20 others. a motorcycle with five bags of rice Organizations (CSOs) in Katsina, statement issued Monday, stated wrath of the law. We have done compensate families of those killed The governor called on the as if you a pursuing a bandit. Look, said the CSOs in the state would that it was shocked by the cold a lot to ensure peace in the state, and injured by its operatives in Nigerian Customs Services to for me, you have to compensate no longer condone the attitude and cannot sit back and watch Jibia Local Government Area liaise with other security agencies these people. Secondly, you must of the customs operatives in the blooded murder of scores of or face legal action by the state to identify and raid shops, where prosecute the driver and the officer, state, declaring that, enough was travelers by locals in Jos. miscreants take us back to dark government. contraband were stored rather than who directed him. enough. The Forum, while condoling old days." He also accused the Nigerian reckless shootings and killings of "We will not accept anything He said: "There is no point with families of those murdered, Senator representing Plateau Customs Service under the innocent citizens of the state. short of this. We are ready to test whatsoever that somebody who is appealed to all communities to South, Prof. Nora Daduut, also leadership of Col. Hameed Ibrahim "There was a time you (Customs) the legal system that gave you trained and given the opportunity show the highest levels of restraint condemned the attacks that led Ali (rtd) of working against the were shooting sporadically and right to kill right inside the town. to protect lives, will turn into a and tolerance, stressing that killings to the deaths of commuters people of Katsina State, particularly shouting right here inside the There are only two things that killer of lives because of rice. and reprisals only endanger the in Jos as heineous, calling on those at the border communities Katsina city, when bandits are will stop us from testing; you "Your visit here is not enough lives of more people, most of them law enforcement agencies to in the state. there killing people. But you are compensate those lives that you and will not bring anything to innocent. swiftly apprehend and bring the In the same vein, the Member also busy killing people,because killed and prosecute the driver us, unless we see action, change It said: "Notwithstanding the perpetrators to justice. representing Jibia-Kaita federal of bags of rice on motorcycles, and the officer who is directing to and difference in what is going fact that most of the North of In a press statement, Daduut constituency, Hon. Sada Soli, unfortunately. pursue recklessly," he said. on in these border communities". Nigeria is now a virtual killing called on citizens of the state to has accused the operatives of "We are not condoling smuggling On his part, Soli, who The ACG Mohammed, said the field, this particular incident is live in peace with one another as the Customs Service of killing 25 in any form but then you have corroborated the governor’s service was not unmindful of its an outrageous provocation, and there was no alternative to peace persons in Jibia Local Government criminalised people living within position, said, "We are not happy paramilitary responsibility,which it compounds the deteriorating coexistence. Area of the state. the border communities of Nigeria. with the conduct of the operatives was essentially to protect lives community relations in this and She commended the Governor Masari, who gave the directive, You don't even care. Life means of the Nigerian Customs Service. and described the incident as many parts of the region." and security operatives for their when he received the Service Zonal nothing to you,because in the In the course of three years, we unfortunate. "The Forum has taken note proactiveness and called on citizens Coordinator, Zone ‘B’ Kaduna, end you are going to declare in have the records, the customs killed "As part of the visit, the of the statement of President to cooperate with them to ensure Assistant Controller General the federation account amount 25 people in Jibia, and this is the Controller-General, Rtd Col. Hamid Muhammadu Buhari and the lasting peace in the state. (ACG), Uba Mohammed, urged collected by the Customs. first time the killing is generating Ali, has mandated us to interact steps taken by Governor of The NLC, in a statement by the service to arrest and prosecute "Today, if you are taking pure this kind interest. with communities, leaders, the Plateau State, Simon Lalong. These its president, Ayuba Wabba, said, its officers and driver involved in water from Katsina to Jibia you "There are 2,000 villages on bereaved families and the victims of reactions must produce immediate "This incident further highlights the the Jibia incident. will pass not less than 28 checking 156 borders from 21 states in this the accident with a view to report A THISDAY report had it that points. Those 28 check points, they country but we did not experience our findings," he said. TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 7 8 TUESDAY, 
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THISDAY NEWS Osinbajo: Multiple Taxation Killing SMEs at National, Sub-national Levels James Emejo in Abuja the Abuja Chamber of Commerce Represented at the occasion the Nigerian business environment business operations, inclusive of the issues. and Industry (ACCI), said, "the by the Minister of State for with global standards. logistics. He further described the theme Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo problem of taxation on the growth Industry, Trade and Investment, He identified one of He said the function of logistics of the conference as appropriate and yesterday expressed concern over of SMEs is exacerbated by a lack of Mrs. Mariam Katagum, the vice such amendments to be the was important to SMEs because timely, especially with the advent the high mortality rate of small reliable data for statistical analyses." president specifically pointed out categorisation of companies it is the quintessence of the of the African Continental Free and medium scale enterprises He, however, assured that the that SMEs were facing challenges into small, medium, and large organisation’s relationship with Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA). (SMEs) in the country. current administration remains of multiple taxation at the national companies, based on annual gross suppliers and customers. He said, "This is so because there The vice president lamented the committed to improving the and sub-national levels, non-clarity turnover as seen in the Finance He said though logistics, are several African countries that rate at which small businesses were ease of doing business as well on the procedure and amount Act 2019, adding that the Act including high transportation have the scale to compete with shutting down due mainly to tax as encourage tax and fiscal to pay and non-friendly tax also has a strategic objectives to costs, lack of quality delivery Nigerian businesses in terms of -related issues, among others. responsibility in the country. administrators. support small businesses in line service and lack of quality productive capacity, packaging, Osinbajo, who spoke at the He said the Presidential Enabling However, he further said the with the ease of doing business infrastructure such as roads exports and logistics. maiden Abuja SME Conference Business Environment Council federal government, aware of the reforms. constituted major challenges, the "Consequently, Nigerian and Exhibition, with the theme: (PEBEC) had been doing a lot constraints affecting the business Osinbajo said in order for President Muhammadu Buhari-led businesses would have to adapt "Solution Strategies for Resolving to address the thorny issue of landscape had over the last two SMEs to sustain their role of administration had made massive to the new form of competition, on Tax, Regulatory, Packaging and multiple taxation which has a years, through the Finance Act contributing to the mainstream investments in the railways, power the back of the trade environment, Logistic Challenges Facing Nigerian debilitating effect on the business 2019 and 2020, amended various economy, they have to implement and roads infrastructure all over created by the AfCFTA. SMEs,” which was organised by environment. tax and fiscal legislations to align effective strategies in all of their the country trying to addressing "Additionally, Nigerian businesses must learn to position themselves to take advantage of the new markets that have been opened to them- a single market of 1.2 billion people and a cumulative GDP of over $3.4 trillion." Describing SMEs as powerful tools for growing emerging economies such as Nigeria, the vice president, tasked stakeholders at the gathering to ponder on the challenges confronting the sector and come up with other practicable approaches that will see SMEs to excel. In his remarks, President of ACCI, Dr. Al-Mujtaba Abubakar, said the conference was convened to provide answers to the often repeated challenges facing SMEs in the country. He pointed out that there are no shortage of analysis and reviews on problems facing SMEs, adding that, "What is missing is the creation and implementation of solutions by stakeholders." "Our goal for this conference is to match problems with solutions alongside developing an implementation plan," he added. Abubakar said the chamber remained one of the foremost advocates for businesses in Nigeria, FLAG-OFF OF PHASE 2 COVID-19 VACCINATION… particularly in the SME space. L R: President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, The African Export-Import Bank, Prof. Benedict Oramah; Minister of State for Health, Sen. Dr. Olorunnimbe Mamora and House of Representatives According to him, multiple taxation had been identified as Committee on COVID-19, Hon. Haruna Mshelia during the National Flag-Off of Phase 2 COVID-19 Vaccination at Federal Medical Center in Abuja... yesterday PHOTO: KINGSLEY ADEBOYE the principal headache killing SMEs and in effect, deepening unemployment in the country. He explained: "We had proposed NYSC Asks Corps Members to Avoid Night Travels a legislation to harmonise taxation had partnered the Federal Road to ensure their safety. board vehicles by the roadside. primary assignment. for SMEs. Our detailed submission Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole in also seeks a presidential executive Abuja Safety Corps, both at its National He warned the Corps Members “Your parents have invested "For you to be protected, please Headquarters in Abuja and at the to be security conscious and avoid so much in you and they want get yourselves vaccinated and in order collating all current incentives state level, including the transport indulging in acts that could return on their investment. The all the communities you will be for SMEs and issuing directive for The Director General, National due compliance. Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Brig. unions on the need to provide endanger their lives. Federal Government cares for deployed, sensitise the members roadworthy vehicles and other "All of you must be conscious you, NYSC loves you and we that there is nothing harmful when "I want to re-emphasis and Gen. Ibrahim Shuaibu,has called on strongly recommend that tax all Corps members and prospective modalities that would ensure of your security and you must not don't want anything untoward one is vaccinated. accident-free journey for Corps put yourselves in harm's way. You to happen to you", he said. “Protect yourselves so that you harmonisation legislation should ones not to travel beyond 6pm, be preceded by a presidential advising that should they be on Members while travelling." must not travel at night and for The Director-General also urged can protect others. Don't let down The DG also admonished those of you going on relocation them to sensitize Nigerians on your guards. You must adhere executive order. the road by that time, they should "This will enforce compliance approach the nearest military them not to board vehicles by you must adhere to this instruction. the non-pharmaceutical safety strictly to the non-pharmaceutical the roadside, but rather go to Go to the designated motor parks protocols of COVID-19 as they safety protocols of COVID-19", with pro-SMEs initiatives and barracks or NYSC formations interventions of the government." for accommodation. designated motorparks in order and under no condition must you were deployed to their places of he said." The NYSC Director Press and Public Relations, Adenike Adeyemi quoted the DG saying, "Corps Members have been advised to Bandits Kill Eight as Villagers Barricade Katsina-Funtua Highway approach military barracks, Corps Francis Sardauna in Katsina It was gathered that most Sokoto and Gusau to turn back Rabi'u Matazu. ablaze and rustled an unspecified Lodges, NYSC State Secretariats of the protesters were those and waited at Dutsin-ma until "They cart away several number of domestic animals. and palaces to pass the night Angry villagers in Yantumaki displaced from their ancestral security operatives later cleared household items, and also set "But at Gidan Mamman whenever their journey is going community of Danmusa Local homes by the hoodlums the highway. many homes on fire and went Dangata, the bandits met stiff beyond six in the evening." Government Area of Katsina across the three affected local One of the protesters, Ibrahim away with scores of cows and resistance from vigilantes and Ibrahim gave the charge on State on Monday barricaded governments, currently taking Nura, told THISDAY in a other domestic animals. Also, on other residents, where gunfire Monday at a virtual address to Katsina-Funtua highway over refuge in Yantumaki town. telephone interview that: "On Saturday night, bandits attacked exchange ensued. During the Corps members marking the end bandits' attack on Amarawa and THISDAY further gathered that Saturday midnight, bandits Ilali in Matazu, where they exchange, one of the residents of the 2021 Batch 'B' Stream One other villagers in Matazu and the barricade forced hundreds attacked Dagul village in Matazu, ransacked several homes and was shot and he died minutes Orientation Course. Musawa councils that claimed of travellers, who were going where they killed four people carted away household valuables later, while several sustained According to him, "The Scheme eights lives. to Funtua, Kaduna, Abuja, including the village head, Malam including foodstuff and money. injuries. "They entered the home of one Spokesman for the Katsina of the residents, but he managed police command, SP Gambo Isah, EXPECT MORE INTERVENTION PROJECTS IN 2022, FG ASSURES N’DELTANS to hide inside the ceiling of the said security operatives were on intervention projects as soon Ardo stated that history had that wanted to provide some The minister, who was house. The bandits searched for top of the situation. as the 2022 appropriation bill been recorded since it was the level of comfort for corps represented by the Director, him and when they couldn't find "We woke up this morning is passed. first youth corps members’ members. Community Development and him, they set the room in which with a report of protest by some The minister said: “This lodge to be commissioned by In a related development, the Education (CDE) Department, he was hiding on fire. They killed youths at Yantumaki area,because commissioning is only the the ministry in Rivers State. Akpabio, while commissioning Sabo Adamu, stated that the one person and broke into several of bandits' attack at Amarawa beginning. The ministry is “It is therefore one of the the Community Primary School, ministry served as a primary shops where they carted away village where two villagers were passionately seeking better concrete example of the Tombia in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, vehicle to drive federal valuables and undisclosed amount killed by the hoodlums. and faster ways of delivering commitment and legacy of stated that modern economy government’s intervention of cash." "The Command in collaboration on its mandate. We have noted this administration,” he said. was knowledge-driven and the to fast-track socio-economic On his part, Kabir Kamilu, with military and other security and learnt many lessons from In his remarks, the Chairman, Niger Delta Region needed to development in the Niger disclosed that several communities agencies are on top of the situation the development of this project Tai Local Government Chairman, be carried along. Delta region. were attacked in Musawa on as personnel and equipment are and will factor this into future Hon. Friday Mbakpone,stated He was referring to findings According to him, the Saturday, where at least two additionally deployed to deal with projects." that corps members played in UNESCO Global Education ministry has made considerable persons and one bandit were the recalcitrant bandits hibernating Earlier, the Permanent important roles in the Monitoring Report, which progress in the area of killed. in the area. Secretary, Dr. Babayo Ardo, in community, school and offices stated that poverty was directly infrastructure development, He said: "On Friday night at "The Command is calling for his welcome address stated that and commended the ministry for connected to poor quality environmental remediation, about 8.5pm, bandits attacked calm and urges members of the the facilities were among the providing comfort to the youth. education and improvement in human capital development several communities in Musawa communities around the area to many projects being developed He pledged the readiness of the quality of education could and maintenance of peace where they killed one person and join hands with security agencies by the ministry in each of the his office to collaborate with any reduce poverty to as much as and security for sustainable operated for more than an hour. in the ongoing onslaught against nine Niger Delta states. organisation, public or private 30 per cent. development. The bandits also set several homes the hoodlums," he said. TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 9 10 TUESDAY, 
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WATERSHED MOMENT, AS BUHARI SIGNS PETROLEUM ACT TO OVERHAUL OIL INDUSTRY and related matters. basins such as Lake Chad, Benue Senate, Gbajabiamila According to him, when massive into law of the legislation also Geoscientists and Engineers (EAGE), This is just as the President of the trough, Anambra, Dahomey investments come in as a result of coincided with another significant explained that aside the argument Senate, Dr. Ahmad Lawan; Speaker (Lagos) and Gombe Basins. Say Legislation Positive the PIA, many Nigerians will gain milestone in Nigeria’s history – the over the three per cent or five per of the House of Representatives, The disparity in the for Nigeria’s Economy employment. 50th anniversary of Nigeria’s cent for host communities, the law Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; the percentage approved for the The Senate described the new He expressed optimism that Membership of OPEC. is a foundation that can be built Organisation of Petroleum Host Communities by the two PIA as a major victory that has the with the law, Nigerians would also According to Barkindo, the upon in the future. Exporting Countries (OPEC), chambers resulted in the setting potential of bailing Nigeria out of benefit from reduced fuel prices as golden moment provides a unique “It’s good news that the the Nigeria Extractive Industries up of a Conference committee its economic predicament. there would be competition among opportunity to reflect upon Nigeria’s president has come all the way Transparency Initiative (NEITI) and headed by the Senate Leader, According to the upper legislative the industry players. rise as a global energy supplier and from his holiday and on his first some industry players have said Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, to chamber, the Act will also enable He said, "As I said before, this partner. day of work assented to the bill. the PIA would positively reshape harmonise the two positions. the country to make the most of is a landmark achievement. It has “Since the 24th OPEC Conference It is good news for all of us. It has Nigeria’s industry. Eventually, the committee economic gains of the oil industry been 20 years in coming. This ninth on 12 July 1971, when Nigeria been there for 20 years although On the contrary, the Peoples recommended three per cent to for the benefit of Nigerians. Assembly will be recorded on the received a unanimous and it’s not perfect. No law is perfect, Democratic Party (PDP), the Pan the Host Communities which Chairman of the Senate right side of history for this big enthusiastic welcome as the but we can begin to work on it Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), both the Senate and the House committee on Media and Public score. I call on investors to take 11th Member Country of the from here, particularly the three ljaw National Congress (INC), have of Representatives adopted and Affairs, Senator Ajibola Basiru, full advantage of the opportunities Organisation, our country has come per cent or five per cent for the expressed displeasure over the sent to the President for assent. in a statement congratulated the that the new law provided." to symbolise Africa’s within OPEC communities. development, saying the president The presidential assent has Executive arm of government, the and its pivotal support for global “Now, we have a law regulating failed to heed to the complaints rekindled hope that although leadership and members of the OPEC: Buhari Has oil market stability. the oil and gas industry and the on certain areas in the law. late in coming, some part of the National Assembly and all other “Excellency, the past year has ones that are not up to what we A statement issued by the losses, by one estimate by NEITI stakeholders in the oil industry Ushered in New Era been a time of enormous challenges want, we begin to work on it and President's Special Adviser on exceeding $200 billion, may be for the realization of the new Act. for Oil Sector for our world, for our Organisation, there will be a lot of advocacy Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, recouped before big oil finally He noted that efforts at reaching The Secretary General, OPEC, and for each Member Country. Yet concerning this. So, it is a good said President Buhari assented to goes into extinction. this stage had been a protracted Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo, in a throughout this difficult period, we day for all of us. the Bill working from home. With the new law, the affair as the Bill, first initiated in statement congratulated President have demonstrated the enduring “For investors, those who are It stated: "Working from home establishment of an Upstream 2003 had been subjected to a ping Buhari, saying it marked significant importance of OPEC and its bringing their money into the in five days quarantine as required Regulatory Commission to oversee pong affair between the previous milestone for Nigeria’s oil industry timeless commitment to dialogue, country, they now know what by the Presidential Steering upstream petroleum operations, legislatures and the Executive. and an historic achievement for cooperation, multilateralism and they are bargaining for and the Committee on COVID-19 after including technical, operational and According to him, the Ninth the Presidency. respect among all nations,” he communities will know what to returning from London on Friday commercial activities and ensure National Assembly finally broke According to Barkindo, with added. expect. I am happy, the industry August 13, the President assented compliance with all applicable the jinx when it recently passed the the stroke of a pen, the president is happy. to the Bill Monday August 16, laws and regulations governing Bill after working dispassionately has inaugurated a new era for NEITI: Law Has Ended “Now every company knows in his determination to fulfill his upstream petroleum operations, by putting the interest of the nation the industry following years of what they are working against, constitutional duty. will soon be set up. first over petty squabbles and other legislative efforts to strengthen Uncertainty of Future because there is now a regulation "The ceremonial part of the It will also see the transformation self-interests, thereby laying finally the legal, regulatory, fiscal and of Nigeria’s Oil Sector and a framework, so I can put my new legislation will be done on of the Nigerian National Petroleum to rest previous failed attempts. governance framework of the In its assessment, NEITI also money there. It's different from a Wednesday, after the days of Corporation (NNPC) into a The Senate spokesman further petroleum sector. described the development as situation where people didn't mandatory isolation would have profit-oriented company devoid attributed the success of the accent “Indeed, the new law will historic. really know what was going on, been fulfilled. of political interferences. to the bill to the cooperative enhance the Nigerian petroleum The Executive Secretary of no regulation and those we had "The Petroleum Industry Act Added to that, is the efforts of all participating sectors industry’s reputation, open the door NEITI, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, in were archaic, he stressed. provides legal, governance, establishment of the Nigerian in the process and also the non- to new investment, and ultimately a statement, noted that the new law In his remarks, President of the regulatory and fiscal framework Midstream and Downstream confrontational policy of the current strengthen its position to meet the has ended decades of uncertainty Petroleum Products Retail Outlets for the Nigerian petroleum Petroleum Regulatory Authority National Assembly. world’s growing demand for energy. concerning the future of Nigeria’s Owners Association of Nigeria industry, the development of which would be responsible for the On benefits of the new law, The enactment of this legislation is oil and gas sector. (PETROAN), Dr. Billis Gillis-Harry, host communities, and related technical and commercial regulation Basiru said the PIA will juice up especially timely as the investment According to Orji, “The new law stated that although the law was matters.” of midstream and downstream the national economy by liberalising outlook becomes clouded by efforts has opened a new phase of wider largely unfair to the Niger Delta, Buhari’s government is banking petroleum operations in the the petroleum sector which will aimed at accelerating a lower-carbon opportunities in the oil and gas it wasn’t a bad place to lay a solid that the reforms will attract a petroleum industry in Nigeria. pave way for investors, both local future. industry. For us in NEITI, President foundation for the sector. greater share of global capital The new law will see the and international, to invest in the “Furthermore, the new law will Buhari has broken new grounds, He noted that the country’s allocated to fossil fuel projects. deregulation of the sector and oil sector with government on a help harness Nigeria’s potential to created new business horizon built scarce resources that were being The Senate and House of ensure strict environmental competitive basis. achieve its programme of raising oil on healthy legal frameworks that used to fund the petrol subsidy Representatives had last month implementation of policies, laws In his contribution, the Speaker production to four million barrels will push the boundaries of reforms regime will now be used for passed the bill, thus ending a long and regulations for midstream and of the House of Representatives, per day and oil reserves to 40 billion in the sector with realistic optimism developmental purposes, saying wait since early 2000s. downstream petroleum operations; Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, also hailed barrels, while also drawing on the for inflow of investments, revenue that the organisation had always But while the Senate had and to develop and enforce a President Muhammadu Buhari country’s vast natural gas reserves growth and job opportunities.” supported deregulation. approved three per cent as framework on tariff and pricing for assenting to the PIA, saying to provide clean and efficient energy. The transparency boss applauded “As for the three per cent, it is operating expenditure to the for natural gas and petroleum Nigeria's oil and gas industry will “In addition, these resources the significance of the Presidential unfair to the Niger Delta that bears host communities, the House of products. now receive a breath of fresh air and will be vital to supplying world assent to the Bill, adding that NEITI the burden of oil production in the Representatives, on its part had With the signing of the bill allow investments and transparency markets with a broad portfolio of looks forward to playing active country to be so unfairly treated. approved five per cent. into law, NNPC now becomes to flourish. energy options, and support global roles in designing a new future for “When you compare this to 30 Both chambers had equally commercialised as Nigerians will Gbajabiamila, in a statement, efforts to alleviate energy poverty Nigeria’s oil and gas industry under per cent of NNPC profits even as a approved 30 per cent of the have the opportunity to buy shares noted that the coming into being of as outlined in the United Nations’ the new Petroleum Industry Act. private company, being reserved for Nigerian National Petroleum in the business and ensure more the law was a victory for Nigerians Sustainable Development Goal 7,” “The signing into Law of the the frontier exploration, it doesn’t Company Limited (NNPC) profit transparency in its operations. and a landmark achievement that the OPEC scribe added. PIB has demonstrated government’s add up. share for exploration of frontier ended the two-decade-long journey. He noted that the signing resolve to strengthen governance “However, bills are made by processes and systems especially in man. I believe that at the right time KYARI: HOST COMMUNITIES TO GET $500M ANNUALLY FROM NEW PIA the extractive industry through an some factors should change, but institutional and legal framework. I congratulate Nigerians that this that oil companies provided for That means all liabilities and assets “The PIB did envisage that we’re consumers at a more affordable NEITI is encouraged by the bill has been passed, though it had the host communities, it was not of this company will be transferred going to have a market regulated prices. development,” he added. been jinxed for a number of years. done in the right manner, even to the new company, not all of petroleum market regime. And by He also said there's need to put The NEITI Executive It’s a landmark event,” he stated. if carried out in the name of them. the way, I’m sure you’re aware in place some structures that would Secretary expressed delight Chairman, Petroleum Technology Corporate Social Responsibility “By the way, the bill is also that only petroleum is regulated stabilise prices to avoid exploitation that the, “Petroleum Industry Associated of Nigeria (PETAN), Mr. (CSR) projects. very clear that some toxic assets of today. And every other petroleum of the ordinary people under the Law will provide the dynamic Nicholas Odinuwe, in his remarks “And three per cent of your the corporation would no longer product prices are determined by new regime. legal governance framework expressed joy that the bill had been operating expenditure is a huge would be with the corporation, the market. And therefore the only "And therefore, those conditions required to re-position Nigeria’s signed into law, adding that the number. Many people argue but the shareholders can decide to one element that is not resolved and provisions must take place Petroleum industry to fully views of the organisation were around whether it should be 10 keep some of the assets and leave today is petrol,” he noted. before you can think of exit," he embrace competition, openness, taken into consideration in the per cent or five per cent or three some within the corporation,” he While the new law envisages said. accountability, professionalism process of consultations. per cent. But percentage of what? explained. a fully deregulated market, Kyari said there are already and better profit returns on “The president has signed the PIB I think that’s what most people Given the new scenario, Kyari Kyari stressed that a number of ongoing engagements with investments to both companies and there’s no comment from me don’t understand today. pointed out that the NNPC engagements have been going on stakeholders including labour would become more efficient, and government.” that will change anything. We are “Last year’s operating expenses to ensure a smooth transition. on how to deal with the issue He further stated, “I want to happy that our views were taken for the year was about $16 billion. much slimmer and a much However, he said when of subsidy in the new regime. more commercial national oil also use this opportunity to call into consideration. We are happy, Three per cent of $16 billion is a deregulation eventually happens, He said,"I think two things on companies, government agencies so let the bill work for Nigeria,” large number, somewhere around company at par with its peers there would be safeguards against would play out, first of all, timing across the globe, pledging that and civil society involved in the he said. $500 million plus. That’s because market manipulation to ensure is everything in this conversation. oil and gas sector governance to Also, a Niger Delta activist and in today’s context, it is probably the company will do better under the poor and vulnerable are not When will that happen? Obviously the new arrangement. give this Law a chance to succeed. the National President, Niger Delta bigger than the NDDC. That’s unduly exposed. it is not tomorrow and is there NEITI as an agency with legitimate Nonviolence Agitators Forum really what it is. That’s what you’re He added that there was “The provision of the law is any engagement going on? already a framework established interest in the Law will carefully (NDNAF), Wisdom Ikuli, hailed providing,” he stated. such that it recognises that subsidy "Absolutely correct today study the contents of the new Law President Buhari's prompt signing He stressed that the signing into by government, which would take will be out someday. But it didn’t because as we speak now there care of the new transition within and work closely with national and into law of the legislation. law of the new Act essentially say that we’ll do it tomorrow. So are a number of engagements that global partners especially the EITI Ikuli, said the action of the means transforming from a law the timeframe of six months to incorporate and transfer assets, there are a number of balancing has been going on and there's to use the Law to open the Nigeria President showed his high level that is 54 years old to something personnel among others. that we will do, there’s clearly a one element that is not resolved oil and gas sector for transparency, of responsibility and responsiveness new, saying that with the The GMD noted that while he policy issue for government to which is that will any removal of accountability and inflow of foreign and a further confirmation of his legislation, the NNPC would now recognises that the NNPC is a say that I’m going to let go of subsidy have adverse impact on direct investments into Nigeria.” proactive and compassionate operate under the Company and national oil company operating in this,” he explained. the ordinary person? disposition especially to the plights Allied Matters Act (CAMA). Further commenting on the "The answer is correct if you a resource-dependent country, with Industry Stakeholders of the over exploited people of the “The meaning of this is that some obligations to the people, possible impact of subsidy removal don't manage it properly. And Niger Delta and the Oil Producing this company will just be another the new law would effectively on ordinary Nigerians, the NNPC so what can you do about it. " Say Legislation Big Communities in particular. privately-owned company in a mean the deregulation of the sector. GMD admitted that eliminating The NNPC GMD said, "With Win for Nigeria sense, this company will pay taxes, “When you have a CAMA the subsidy regime could have passage of the PIB into law, you In his reaction to the promulgation PDP, PANDEF, Others this company will pay royalties, company, you cannot put adverse consequences on the must determine how you are going of the new law, Chairman, Board of and this company will deliver those obligations or those ordinary person if not properly to transit out of this. Kick Trustees of the Oil and Gas Trainers But despite the accolades that dividend to its shareholders. responsibilities on the company, managed. "Transition means you either set Association of Nigeria (OGTAN), This isn’t the situation today, and therefore, somebody will He said certain conditions platform for market manipulation; have been heaped on Buhari over Dr. Mayowa Afe, told THISDAY the new oil and gas law, the Peoples because the corporation has no have to pay for it. Here, it is all of needed to be fulfilled by do you have safeguards against that it was a happy day for the such obligation today. us because once you are selling government before the policy potentially a transportation cost Democratic Party (PDP) has berated industry and a big win for the the president. “What this bill will do now is petroleum below market price, action is taken. rises and is it going to affect some country. that in the very short term, within and essentially that’s the meaning Among other things, he said labour issues that you have to According to the political party, of subsidy, and somebody will The former President, Nigerian the president ignored the outcry the framework of the petroleum there must be some arrangement to deal with? And so many other Association of Petroleum industry act, within six months a have to pay for it and that’s the provide alternative for petroleum things that have happened in by Nigerians across board not to state, all of us. Explorationists (NAPE) and current new company will be incorporated. by making gas readily available to other jurisdictions. President, European Association of Continued on page 65 TUESDAY, 
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THISDAY 11 NEWS Jega: Rotational Presidency Won’t Solve Nigeria’s Problem Disagrees with IBB over age limit for president Says electoral act amendment bill will create more problems for INEC Mary Nnah in Lagos and Adedayo without addressing certain critical process. You know membership of Jega said as far as he was idiosyncratic tendencies. If we can my mind we are seeing in Nigeria Akinwale in Abuja elements else it would create more a political party is free choice but concerned, the president of Nigeria do that, a lot of the challenges that presently," he said. problems than it sought to solve. I am saying that the way we are should be the best choice of the we face now and the perception of Jega stressed that the Electoral A former national chairman of the His words: “That person can trying to reposition PRP, it will be a people of Nigeria, adding that age inequity and lack of opportunity Act Amendment bill being con- Independent National Electoral come from the North, South, East good platform for people to come should not matter. will be remarkably addressed.” sidered by the National Assembly Commission (INEC),Professor or the West but the important thing and for us to put hands together “As a political scientist, I have He stressed that Nigerians should and could have been better Attahiru Jega, has said the idea is that even if political parties to addresses the challenges of this read about Nigerian politics, I could also improve the process than what was passed, adding of rotational presidency was not decide that a candidate should country,” he added understand the challenges and I remarkably by having good people that since 2010, he has not seen foolproof and would therefore come from a particular area, what Jega, who had been campaigning have also had the privilege for five rather than sitting and watching remarkable improvement in the not take Nigeria out of its present we need to do is that Nigerians that Nigerians should not vote years of relating relatively more reckless people wrecking our legal framework for elections in political and economic challenges. must interrogate the capacity of either the APC or the PDP, but loosely with Nigerian politicians, country, to come and alter that our country. Speaking on ARISE NEWS last that person to lead this country the PRP, said, “Our politics needs so, I have a clear appreciation of trajectory that is going to lead us To this end, he pointed out that night, he explained that whether appropriately.” to be better than it is presently. the serious challenges that Nigeria to self-destruction as a nation, if any effort to improve that legal power remained in the North or in According to him, apart from We have two dominant parties in faces particularly, the dangerous care is not taken. framework would be commendable the South, Nigeria at the moment the two major political parties in Nigeria and we have seen how trajectory, which many of our “Every Nigerian has the respon- and acceptable, but added that needed the best person to be the Nigeria (APC and PDP),Nigeria they have managed our politics and politicians are leading this country sibility and everyone knows things one would have expected that president – one who is competent, should have an alternative platform our economy. It is clear that there to and if we all sit and watch and are not right in this country. So, we members of the National Assembly with capacity and experience to that would bring good people that are not much to be desired in the allow this, in no time they would need to ensure that good people expressed their minds clearly on be able to get the country out of really are selfless and focused in way they have ran this country.” wreck this country.” come in and there are good people some of the key issues that could her present situation. terms of addressing the challenges He said as a political scientist, To do better and deepen everywhere,” he said. have enhanced the integrity of the Jega, who disagreed with that have been bedevilling this his take was that there were good Nigeria’s democracy, Jega said On Babangida’s age prescription, electoral process. former Military President Ibrahim country. people in those parties but the first of all, Nigerians should he stated: "That is his (Babangida) Jega stated: "And looking at the Badamosi Babangida, over the age “To me, that is probably the parties were dominated by people, ensure that, “we respect the personal opinion. But as far as I bill that they are now considering, bracket of those, who should aspire best way for us to begin to ad- whom he could say without fear constitution, we comply with am concerned, the President of I see at least three key areas where to be president in 2023, also spoke dress the challenges that face our of contradiction, put too much of the rule of law and we should Nigeria should be the best choice there are serious challenges if they about the electoral amendment economy. It can be any party but their selfish and personal interests also ensure that whoever is in of the people of Nigeria. Age may are not addressed and they pass bill before the National Assembly, I have joined PRP and I think it rather than the national interest power has the national interest not matter." the bill the way it is, will create which he said should not be passed is a good platform to drive that in all they do. as his focus rather than personal Asked about who he was more problems that it would solve." referring to in his recent statement He explained that while INEC that those in power have betrayed could try to develop competence Nigerians, who elected them, Jega and capacity into organising said there was much to be desired elections efficiently, effectively in the way the executive and the and transparently, it could not National Assembly approached influence the mindset of the the electoral amendment process. politicians, who were desperate He stressed that there were to win the election by hook or things that they needed to do by crook. and they have not paid attention "What Gen. Obasanjo at that time to and there are things they are called it a do or die affair. Obviously trying to do, which would create INEC is kind of handicapped in more problems than it would solve dealing with that kind of mindset." if they proceeded the way they Asked if there are no laws to were going. check these excesses, Jega decried Clarifying his recent statement that the politicians truncated the where he urged Nigerians not to laws, they operated with impunity, vote for the APC and the PDP they deployed resources, the in 2023, Jega said the country's security, pointing out that INEC politics needed to be better than was not a security organisation, it is presently. but the security agencies appeared The former INEC chairman incapable of addressing some of said there were three critical issues the challenges facing the electoral that make an election credible. process. He explained that one key area Against this background, Jega is the mindset of the politicians; said there was a need for a robust the capacity of INEC to prepare for legal framework to ensure that elections effectively and efficiently, certain things were done ap- which is the second; and the legal propriately. framework which is the third. He added that there were "Now in the Nigeria context, two contradictory provisions in REVIEWING PENSION MATTERS… whatever INEC does, if our politi- the Electoral Act, which really Enugu State Governor, Mr Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi (right) with the leader of the delegation from the National Pension Commission and Commissioner cians have a mindset of winning needed to be addressed. (Technical Division) representing South East geo-political zone, Mr. Ayim Nyerere, at the Government House, Enugu, yesterday. elections by hook or by crook and Jega noted that on the one hand, they are willing to deploy resources a Section says once a party conducts to influence both the legal process its primaries and submits candi- and the operational mechanisms dates to INEC, it cannot change it Ataga: Family Briefs Ozekhome, Alleges Police Cover-up of comforting elections, they are for any reason whatsoever, and on obviously very serious challenges the other hand, another Section of that will continue to bedevil the the Electoral Act says that parties CP denies claim, says forensic investigation ongoing integrity of the electoral process. are to conduct their affairs through Chiemelie Ezeobi the primary suspect, Chidinma the family expressed shock But Odumosu, who had And to be honest, that is what to the democratic process. Ojukwu, 21, and others were that Disu, whom they alleged dismissed coverup, disclosed Family of the late SuperTv boss, separately arraigned before a committed the murder, was that at the moment, forensic Michael Ataga, has briefed a Yaba Magistrate Court. charged with obstruction of justice investigation was ongoing constitutional lawyer, Chief Mike The family also accused the and failure to report a crime. including fingerprint identification, WHO Commends FG for Ozekhome, on the state of the police of unprofessionalism in They said the suspicion of adding that some were being case with a view to securing bringing the perpetrators of the Disu was based on information taken abroad to the pathologist justice. grime crime that led to Ataga’s they received that his short-let for analysis. Investing in COVID-19 Vaccines The family had accused the murder. apartment was directly opposite On the issue of lack of Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja Molumbo commended Lagos State Police Command Ataga, 50, was murdered on the one Ataga was killed inside, handcuff on Chidinma, he said NPHCDA for successfully vac- and its Commissioner of Police, June 15, at a Short-let apartment which was booked by Chidinma. the behaviour of the suspect The World Health Organisation cinating over 2.5 million and 1.4 Hakeem Odumosu, of attempt on Adebowale Oshin Street, Lekki The family also alleged that determines if he or she would (WHO), has commended the million persons with first dose to cover up the killers, low level Phase 1, Lagos, where he was Disu had asked that the facility's be handcuffed, pointing out that federal government for its huge and second dose of AstraZeneca of professionalism in bringing spending time with a younger carpenter be called to fix his door the suspect was no longer in his investment in the procurement and vaccine respectively in the Phase1 the perpetrators to book and lover, Ojukwu. only for the carpenter to be told custody but that of the Kirikiri installation of Ultra Cold Chain rollout of COVID-19 vaccination. keeping the family in the dark The police arrested Ojukwu on later that it was Ataga's door that Female Prisons. equipment at the national strategic "The introduction of these on the day the arrested suspects June 23, who initially confessed to was broken. "There was a court order that store and the state cold stores for vaccines comes with a huge were arraigned in court. have killed the businessman, but The Ataga family therefore she be remanded in their custody", covid-19 vaccines. logistical preparation for the But Odumosu, in a swift in subsequent interviews, denied expressed displeasure about what he added. Country Representative of storage of Moderna vaccine. rebuttal, told THISDAY that the committing the crime. it termed the comfy movement of Clarifying the handcuff part, he WHO, Dr. Kazadi Mulombo, who Partners are very happy with the outcome of the case was yet to According to her, even though Ojukwu from court to the prison said, "It's when there is an element spoke at the flag-off of thesecond federal government. This is good be determined, thus the police they had injested some hard in a hailing cab ride without of violence that we handcuff. In phase of COVID-19 vaccination sign of a committed government could not be said to have exhibited drugs, she had stepped out for handcuffs on her. a case, where someone can injure in Nigeria at the Federal Medical leadership at national and state unprofessionalism. an errand only to return and saw "To all other suspects involved herself or somebody, that's when Centre, Jab, said it was encourag- level to have it citizens vaccinated However, confirming the brief, that the door to their apartment in this dastardly act (except we handcuff. That's the law." ing that the country utilised 98.9% against the disease. Ozekhome declined to state if he was not locked and Ataga had Chidinma who was ordered While stating that he (3,980,600 doses) of first tranche "Going by the lessons learnt was to watch brief on behalf of the been brutally murdered. remanded ), bail was granted understood the feelings of the of COVID-19 vaccines. from the Phase 1 of COVID-19 family or whether a fiat had been In the course of police by Chief Magistrate Adeola bereaved family, he also stressed "Today, we are gathered rollout, we have no doubt that obtained from the state to enable investigation, other suspects Adedayo, in the funny conditions that the police could not operate to launch the phase two of the Government of Nigeria will him undertake the prosecution. including Ojukwu's adopted of one million naira each with outside the ambit of the law. COVID-19 vaccination, with an be able to overcome all challenges "All I can confirm to you is father, Emmanuel Ojukwu two sureties in like sum. On the matter of Disu and initial 4,000,080 doses of Moderna for a successful Phase 2 rollout," that I have been briefed by the and one Babalola Disu, were "The over liberal bail terms in his supposed light bail terms, he and 176,000 doses of Johnson and he said. family to ensure that justice is also arraigned for preventing such a heinous crime of hideous said the investigation was not Johnson vaccines, which will be Mulombo explained that WHO done in the matter," he said. the police from performing and horrific murder," adding that concluded yet and that the case administered to people aged 18 and partners would continue to The bereaved family had last their lawful duties and refusal these acts by the police was a slap was adjourned, while any exhibit years and above in the 36 states support the country in reaching week alleged they were not to report a crime. on their face, the face of justice needed would be presented to and the Federal Capital Territory its targeted population with safe notified by the police, when In its accusation of the police, and a deliberate cover-up. the court. of Nigeria. and effective vaccines. 12 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 ˾
THISDAY NEWS Nigeria on the Road to its Worst Debt Trap, Says Don Dike Onwuamaeze Economic Research (NISER), delivered the keynote address us into big debt trap worse debt, then you are planning above macroeconomic stability Ibadan, Professor John Adeoti, at the Institute of Chartered than what we have ever for trouble. If we borrow for even though macroeconomic A Professor of Economics yesterday raised the alarm that Accountant of Nigeria(ICAN)’s experienced,” adding that projects that will finance their management is important in and Head, Innovation and Nigeria is rushing headlong into 2021 Mid-year Economic “some of us economists will interest repayments that is okay. modern capitalist economy. Technology Policy Department, its worst debt trap ever. Discourse” titled, “X-raying say what the problem is with But all of us will know that He said that the country’s Nigerian Institute of Social and Adeoti stated this when he the Nigerian Economy: Problem concessionary low interest what we are doing currently focus should be on how and Prospects” rate loans as any rational and what we have done many to keep production going Adeoti also warned that businessman will do that? times over the years is far from across sectors while dealing Nigeria must prioritise Why can’t we continue on this that. So, it is a big problem with macroeconomic variables NSCDC CG Reads productivity within its at least to balance the budget for the economy in spite of like inflation, exchange rate, economy above fixation with deficit and to ensure that we what Economics’ textbooks say monetary policy. macroeconomic management build infrastructure? about how investments should “The focus should be how Riot Act to Criminals and also watch the fast rate of “My own response to that is be done. That you borrow to do we prioritise production. Michael Olugbode in Abuja “You now have the training its population growth. that it does not always work invest and with the return on “Many of the issues that and arms to enforce the law in He said: “The debt burden, like that. If you will continue investment will pay-back.” we are dealing with in our The Commandant General of the country. There should be no especially the foreign debt in to borrow and the project you Adeoti also said that Nigeria economy is because we have the Nigeria Security and Civil excuse,” he said. particular, is going to lead finance cannot service the should prioritise production a big production challenge.” Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. He added that, “From the Ahmed Audi, has said his men reports I received from their were now prepared to speak to training and the parade we bandits and criminal elements in witnessed today (Monday), the language they understood. there is ample evidence that Speaking at the passing out these officers and men have parade of 267 men and officers passed through an intense of the Corps trained in arms and very rigorous training handling, Audi implored them to and have come out ready and brace up and “speak to bandits well-prepared to contribute their and criminals in the language quota to the actualisation of the they understand.” Corps mandate. The CG, while warning them “Please, be aware that, this is that he had zero tolerance for just the beginning. Ahead of you accidental discharges, said with lie years of service to the people their training, they should be able of this great country, which I am to evolve professional tactics in confident you will perform with discharging their duties of curbing the traditional flair and selfless criminalities in the country. devotion to duty. ‘How We Steal from Bank Accounts Using Lost Sim Cards’ EFFECTIVE JUDICIARY… Police nab 78-year-old arms dealer L-R: Managing Director/CEO, Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON), Alhaji Ahmed Kuru; Nigerian Ambassador to Egypt, Kingsley Nwezeh in Abuja Bureau of Intelligence Response Alhaji Nura Abba Rimi; and Justice Binta Nyako at the 2021 Federal High Court foreign training programme in Cairo, Egypt …recently Team (IRT) led by Tunji Disu, The Nigeria Police yesterday who took over recently from the paraded 39 crime suspects suspended Deputy Commissioner Court Adjourns Resident Doctors’ Case to September 15 including a 46-year-old suspect, of Police, Abba Kyari. Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja decision as patriotic. the federal government. The the Deputy Director, Press in Zakarri Hahaya also known as The cyber-crime suspect A statement by the leadership court then adjourned the case the Ministry of Labour and ‘’his excellency’’, who specialised narrated how he stole millions The National Industrial Court of National Association Resident to September 15”. Employment, Charles Akpan, in using lost sim cards to steal from bank accounts without has adjourned the hearing of Doctors (NARD) signed by In the statement NARD commended the senior doctors money from bank accounts. detection. “My name is Zakarriyah the dispute between the federal its President, Dr. Uyilawa pleaded for understanding of for their maturity in not going The Intelligence Response Team Yahaya, I was born and brought government and the resident Okhuaihesuyi said that the Nigerians for the ongoing strike, of strike. (IRT) of the police also arrested up in Jos. I was arrested last month doctors to September 15, 2021. Industrial Court had adjourned saying that, “ a hungry doctor The statement said: “The a 78-year-old arms dealer in in Mabushi here in Abuja. I use to The adjournment of the case the case with the government is dangerous doctors”. consultants have proved they Markudi. reset any SIM that receives bank involving resident doctors came to September 15. He said that the association are conscious of the onerous Yahaya, who was among 39 alert. I will reset it and steal all the just as the Minister of Labour He said: “ As a law -abiding is hopeful that government will roles and extra burden they suspects paraded over various money inside the bank account. and Employment Senator Chris association, we were at the court do the needful by providing for shoulder as very senior doctors crimes in Abuja confessed to his ‘’I do reset it with victim’s Ngige hailed the Medical and as summoned but the Ministry the welfare of the doctors, so as at a critical time, the resident crimes, saying that bank accounts bank account number through Dental Consultants Association of of Labour and Employment was to stem the ugly state of brain doctors embarked on a strike of many Nigerians receiving alerts bank code from the first to the Nigeria (MDCAN) for shelving absent and only the Ministry of drain afflicting the health sector. the federal government has done were easy to access by using their last number. Any bank that we its planned strike, describing their Health was present representing However, a statement by everything to avert. account and phone numbers. get, we first use it to buy recharge Parading the suspects in Abuja, card, from there, they will send us Force Spokesman, Frank Mba, said the alert. From the alert, we will Zulum Visits CDS over Repentant Boko Haram Members the suspects were arrested across now get the account number,” Michael Olugbode in Maiduguri resolve to widely consult security hold series of other consultations. victims of insurgents’ attacks with the country by Force Investigation he said. and Borno stakeholders towards Zulum had on Saturday during a view to addressing what he Borno State Governor, Prof. developing a framework that visits to Bama and Gwoza, described as a difficult situation. Babagana Zulum, yesterday would address concerns raised addressed military commanders The governor noted that 2023: PDP Has Already commenced consultations on how over the surrender of members and community leaders. though the surrender by to react to the massive surrender of the Boko Haram/ISWAP He had then disclosed thousands of insurgents provided Conceded Defeat, Says APC of Boko Haram with a visit to through the military’s ‘Operation plans to engage in a high-level a significant opportunity to end Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja reckoning had recently resorted the Chief of Defence Staff(CDS), Safe Corridor’ deployed as a consultation with President the 12 years of war, there were to many diversionary activities. General Lucky Irabor in Abuja. psychological warfare to weaken Muhammadu Buhari, the service concerns that needed to be The All Progressives Congress According to him, the According to a statement by the the ranks of the terrorists. chiefs and the resident security addressed, which bother on (APC) has said the unfounded idle conspiracies and wild governor’s spokesman, Mallam Governor Zulum, who arrived heads, traditional rulers, elders the feelings of victims as well allegations made by the allegations being bandied by Isa Gusau, the meeting, which in Abuja from Maiduguri, headed and religious leaders, national as the confidence of citizens in Peoples Democratic Party the PDP on the procurement of was held behind closed doors, straight to the Office of the CDS. and state assembly members, the event repentant insurgents (PDP) on the procurement e-voting machines and plans was in furtherance of Zulum’s The governor is scheduled to academics, other stakeholders and are to be reintegrated. of e-voting machines by the to rig the 2023 elections, were Independent National Electoral clear testimony that the PDP Commission (INEC) and plans had already conceded election Airport Concession: FG Releases Request for Qualification to rig the 2023 elections were defeat long before the 2023 Kasim Sumaina in Abuja In the document signed Port Harcourt Internatıonal reputable Airport Developers/ a clear testimony that the electioneering process. by the Permanent Secretary, Aırport, and surrounding Operators/Financiers/Consortia PDP had already conceded Akpanudoedehe noted that The federal government through Federal Ministry of Aviation, communities are intended to for prequalification for the defeat long before the 2023 the PDP was clearly unsettled the Ministry of Aviation and Hassan Musa, which was made be developed into efficient, concession of selected airports electioneering process began. and afraid of the APC in compliance with the available to journalists in Abuja profitable, self-sustaining,terminals under a Public-Private National Secretary of the widespread popularity, hence, Infrastructure Concession by the Director of Public Affairs, commercial hubs which will Partnership (PPP) arrangement.” Caretaker/Extraordinary PDP’s imaginary, baseless and Regulatory Commission Ministry of Aviation, Mr. James create more jobs and develop It further stated that the (ICRC) and National Policy Odaudu, stated that the four local industries through a airport terminal concession is Convention Planning concocted allegations of a plan on Public-Private Partnership major commercial airports, Public-Private Partnership (PPP) one of the critical projects under Committee (CECPC), Senator to rig the 2023 elections. (N4P) yesterday released the Nnamdi Azikiwe International arrangement. the Aviation Sector Roadmap John Akpanudoedehe, in a He noted that the ruling request for qualification for the Airport Abuja, Murtala The document says: “The of the federal government, and statement issued yesterday party would not learn the concession of four international Muhammed Internatıonal Federal Government of fits well within the scope of the said the PDP in its desperate PDP bad habits on election airport terminals and related Aırport Lagos, Malam Amınu Nigeria, through the Ministry ministry’s strategic plan for the bid to remain in public fraud. services. Kano Internatıonal Aırport, and of Aviation, is inviting bids from sector. TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 13 14 THISDAY • TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA COMMENT Email [email protected] AFGHANISTAN: IMPORTANT LESSONS FOR NIGERIA Nigeria should develop its strategic national interest and pursue it in the context of its foreign policy, writes Etim Etim

he invasion of Kabul, capital of Afghanistan, by the no matter who is affected. The US is also very protective of its Taliban over the weekend marked the takeover of the national security. If you read memoires of Henry Kissinger, Colin country by the Islamic terrorist group 20 years after they Powel, Condoleezza Rice and other diplomats, you’ll have insights were driven out by the American military. There were into how dearly the US holds its national interest and national chaotic scenes at the Kabul airport as the Americans, security. The withdrawal of the US from Afghanistan is all in line other foreign nationals and Afghans themselves struggled with its national interest and national security. The US has no friend Tto flee the besieged country. Hundreds of people flooded the or enemies. It has Interests. If those interests are compromised tarmac, chasing a taxing plane, all in desperation to escape. The by the Taliban, the US will not hesitate to return to that country. commotion and pandemonium followed the unexpected departure Nigeria should develop its strategic national interest and pursue of the country’s leader, President Ashraf Ghani late Saturday night. it vigorously in the context of its foreign policy. This should be a Ministers and senior government officials were heartbroken and big lesson to Nigeria. It is therefore important that the Nigerian they felt betrayed that the President had fled without giving them government should prosecute the war against terrorists in Northern a hint. “How could he run away without informing us’’, Education Nigeria with a single-minded fervor; and we should not expect any Minister Ragina Hamidi told BBC, sobbing. President Ghani fled after help from any foreign power. No foreign power will help us. This the Taliban fighters entered Kabul. He is said to be taking refuge in is our cross; we should bear it with equanimity, courage and pride. Tajikistan. When a President flees his country in the middle of a war, The government and military should not expect any help from any it signifies the ultimate capitulation and surrender. Six weeks ago, foreign power. Nigerians should support our troops materially and President Joe Biden had assured his country that the withdrawal psychologically. Corporate organizations should reach out to the of the US troops will not lead to the return of the Taliban, a group military authorities and offer support. Our senators, governors and notorious for marginalization of women and religious minorities. But even artistes should visit our troops at the frontlines and offer succor the sudden overrun of the capital, the seizure of the Presidential villa and encouragement. I commend our neighbors (Chad, Niger, Mali, and the mass movement of people out of the country must be very Cameroun and Benin) for their help. embarrassing to the Biden administration. The ease with which the Taliban captured Kabul and seized the In Washington, Secretary of State Anthony Blinken rushed presidential palace without firing a shot has confounded analysts. through the early talk shows on Sunday morning to explain such a Did Afghan troops surrender because they haboured hidden support terrible foreign policy debacle. The image of helicopters picking US for the Taliban? Or did they just melt away to avoid bloodshed and diplomats from the US embassy compound to the airport to scramble civilian casualties? Whatever the reasons for the quick advancement out of town reminds older Americans of such a jostle out of Hanoi, of the terrorists, many Nigerians are now speculating that Boko Vietnam about 50 years. President Joe Biden himself hunkered down Haram fighters in the North East could be emboldened by the at Camp David, watching developments in Afghanistan and getting good fortune and audacity of the Taliban to launch an offensive briefings from officials. The world seems to have been caught off against our troops. This should also be another lesson for Nigerians. guard. The United Nations is contemplating a special session on Islamic terrorists are the most dangerous and destructive set of Afghanistan. NATO is providing security at Kabul airport while criminals. They are resilient, and because theirs is an ideological airlines have suspended flights into and out of the airport. Biden is war, they typically fight to their death. The people of North East planning to address his nation later in the week. This is what war Nigeria, and indeed all Nigerians, must all stand with our military looks and feels like, and this particular mess is the worst and most and support our troops with intelligence. We cannot afford to humiliating foreign policy failure for the US since April 1980 when surrender our country to terrorists, kidnappers and rapists. This is President Jimmy Carter failed to rescue American hostages in Iran. not about Buhari, APC or PDP. This is about our homeland. Another The failed attempt resulted in the death of one Iranian civilian and interesting lesson for us is how quickly the Afghan President and eight American servicemen. It’s one of the reasons Carter lost his his family fled the country. He didn’t even bother to inform his reelection later that year to Ronald Reagan. I wonder how President ministers. You can trust that all other politicians will vamoose in Biden and his party will fare in the midterm elections next year. the next few days. The Americans themselves are scampering away As I watched the dramatic events unfold in Kabul, I pondered like cowards. Americans go to other countries, create a mess and Nigeria, my beloved country, and how the country has been fighting scamper away in their helicopters. See what they did to Libya! The another deadly war with another set of Islamic terrorists and other day, Pastor Paul Adefarasin was boasting that he had already fundamentalists. Our country has spent billions of Naira and lost created Plan B for himself and his family. You can be sure that he thousands of lives (both civilians and servicemen and women) in was speaking the mind of all the politicians and rich businessmen. the last 12 years in the fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP and But what of the ordinary folks like you and I? Where do we run to their various variants. First of all, I am grateful to our military for if, God forbid, this country goes up in flames? This is the reason I defending the nation against our own Taliban for the last 12 years am against IPOB and all the ruffians trying to create problems. The with valor, bravery and a sense of patriotism. Never for once have federal government must crush these troublemakers (they are mostly our troops surrendered, given up or shown any form of fatigue or drug addicts) with all the will it can muster. Nigerians who talk cowardice even in the face of poor funding and difficult challenges. flippantly about waging war against their country should learn a big There have been cases of internal sabotage and betrayals by some lesson from Afghanistan. The leaders and the rich ones will easily unscrupulous soldiers, but overall, our troops have been patriotic, run away, leaving a huge mass of 200 million people as refugees. heroic and loyal to the Constitution, civilian authorities and the THE NIGERIAN GOVERNMENT SHOULD Who will accommodate us? Who will feed us? Where shall we run nation. I stand in total salute to them for their sacrifice and service, PROSECUTE THE WAR AGAINST TERRORISTS to? The chaos and commotion in Kabul in the past few days show and I commend our military families across the country for their loss IN NORTHERN NIGERIA WITH A SINGLE- just how terrible war is. and sacrifice. Once again, I thank our military and the brave men and women There are a few lessons for Nigeria and Nigerians in the unfolding MINDED FERVOR; AND WE SHOULD NOT in uniform for their service and sacrifice. They stay awake, fight and drama in Kabul. I should note that the United States has its own EXPECT ANY HELP FROM ANY FOREIGN die just to keep us safe. May God continue to bless and protect our national interest which it pursues with so much fervor all the time, POWER troops and keep our country safe. THE NNPC INVESTMENT IN DANGOTE REFINERY Julienne Manga writes that it is a praiseworthy investment

he 20 per cent stake of the Nigerian $2.76billion in the Dangote Refinery is one of did apples versus oranges comparison of the Ministry of Trade and Investment (MITI) National Petroleum Corporation five planned for upcoming private refineries Dangote Refinery and a 90-year-old Sinclair in driving the policy and execution of that (NNPC) in the upcoming Dangote with a minimum capacity of 50, 000 litres per refinery in the United States. The comparison country’s industrialization. American economics Refinery raised heckles from day. The goal is to guarantee national energy was that HollyFrontier is buying an entire professor Chalmers Johnson noted in his 1982 concerned citizens and shown the security. Citizens should therefore expect the Sinclair Refinery for an investment of $2.6 book, MITI and the Japanese Miracle: The need for better understanding and nation to make more of such investments billion. Except that the analyst failed to disclose Growth of Industrial Policy 1972-1975, that Tclarity on the issues. A deep dive shows that through the NNPC. the details hidden in those numbers. the intervention of MITI was critical to the far from out of place, the investment is both For years, NNPC has been a partner of all NNPC’s 20 per cent stake would translate successes of Japan. “The particular speed, form, visionary and in line with an existing policy the big energy firms in the country involved to 130, 000 barrels per day capacity from the and consequences of Japanese economic growth of Nigeria having a stake in the critical energy in exploration through the joint venture brand new 650, 000bpd Dangote Refinery. It are not intelligible without reference to the sector. It also speaks to foresighted investment. strategy. Shell, Mobil, Total, Agip and the highly is already higher in capacity terms than what contributions of MITI. Collaboration between The Dangote Refinery at Ibeju Lekki is an successful Nigeria LNG Limited have NNPC Sinclair can deliver at full capacity. the state and big business has long been ambitious integrated energy project. It will stakes. The investment aligns with the new The combined business of HollyFrontier and acknowledged as the defining characteristic of produce 650, 000 barrels of crude petroleum direction and structure of NNPC as a public Sinclair will have a refining capacity of 678, 000 the Japanese economic system”, Johnson states. daily that makes it the largest such refinery in limited liability company in the months and bpd after the acquisition. HollyFrontier already South Korea also adopted a similar practice the world. Dangote Refinery would produce years ahead. NNPC investment in the private has refineries, and is only adding Sinclair’s two in industrialisation. Strong business-government enough for Nigeria and export. In other words, refineries would grow the domestic refining refineries, with a combined capacity of 115, 000 links including direct investments were it will meet our need for 57 million litres of capacity and improve petroleum products bpd to its portfolio. significant contributors to changing the South petrol daily, 27 million litres of diesel per day, supply from local refineries. Of the 115, 000bpd capacity, the first refinery, Korea development narrative. South Korea 11 million litres of kerosene per day and nine There is a sound justification in investing with a capacity of 85,000 bpd, was built in 1924, also had a Ministry of Trade and Industry that million litres of aviation jet each day. in a private sector driven project: A resource- 97 years ago while the second refinery with a worked with the Economic Development Board In approving the NNPC move, the Federal dependent country as Nigeria cannot but capacity of 30,000 bpd, was built in 1992. The and the Ministry of Finance to drive policy Executive Council considered the strong case show interest, and have a stake, in a business numbers show that NNPC is getting better direction and implementation. the corporation made. Nigeria needs to that borders on energy security and has fiscal value in capacity and in the age and potential NNPC is on the right track both in terms of invest in the energy sector, directly building security implications for the economy. of the refinery than the comparator policy direction and significance as well as in the refineries or investing in projects that will meet Misunderstanding and possible mischief The NNPC investment compares to and absolute numbers generated by the investment in the national energy need. The investment of informed some narrative on social media that aligns with the acclaimed efforts of the Japanese the Dangote Refinery. THISDAY • TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 15 EDITORIAL WHEN LIVES BECOME STATISTICS

All the critical stakeholders should do more to stem the rising tide of criminality

o fewer than 3,868 persons incursion of terrorists. The zone is increasingly becom- were killed in different states of ing a haven for active terrorist groups, including the Nigeria between January and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and rogue June 2021, according to the mid- West African herdsmen once rated the fourth-deadliest year report by Global Rights, terror group in the world. an international human rights organisation. The Washington he growing feeling of helplessness by Nige- DC, United States-based group rians compounds the challenge. If gunmen which tracks daily incidents of mass atrocities also put can cynically invade police detention centre, Nthe number of persons abducted in Nigeria within the kill policemen and raze their stations, it is very timeframe at 3,016, an 80 per cent increase compared Ttelling of the capacity they have mustered. Indeed, the to 615 incidents recorded within the same period in ability of terror-minded gangs to thumb their noses at 2020. It is a report that should worry the authorities. authority each time the security forces attempt to make The report reveals that banditry accounted for 2,423 claims and boastful noises must be seen as a measure cases (62.64 per cent) of violent killing nationwide, of their strength vis-a-vis the government’s weakness. Boko Haram 388 (10.03 per cent); herdsmen attacks, Some of the identified causes of these problems in- 289 (7.47 per cent), isolated attacks, 272 (7.03 per cent), clude arms and weapon trafficking, poor governance, cult clashes, 213 (5.5 per cent), communal clashes, 180 poverty and climate change, overburdened security (4.65 per cent), extrajudicial killings (106 (2.74 per cent). apparatus and diminishing government presence In January 2021, according to the report, 373 persons in some areas. Policies to address these recurring were killed across the country; 685 in February; 545 in challenges include improved law enforcement among March; 724 in April; the people, collaboration with Nigeria’s immediate SECURITY AGENCIES 778 in May, and 763 neighbours like Chad, Niger, etc., to fight terrorism NEED TO STEP UP THEIR in June. In terms of and banditry, and strategic investments in human and ACTS AND STRENGTHEN abduction, the report infrastructural development. NOT ONLY INTER- revealed an unprec- With the arrival of some Super Tucano fighter jets THISDAY AGENCY COORDINATION edented increase EDITOR SHAKA MOMODU that are now available to the Air Force in the Northeast in the number of DEPUTY EDITOR WALE OLALEYE, OBINNA CHIMA and Northwest zones, we expect changes in the battle TO CHECKMATE THE MANAGING DIRECTOR ENIOLA BELLO CURRENT DESCENT INTO kidnapped victims, DEPUTY MANAGING DIRECTOR ISRAEL IWEGBU against the sundry criminal cartels who trouble the ANARCHY BUT ALSO which steadily surged CHAIRMAN EDITORIAL BOARD OLUSEGUN ADENIYI peace of our country. We hope the military authorities from 615 in the first EDITOR NATION’S CAPITAL IYOBOSA UWUGIAREN will step up action in making Nigeria safe again. There THE INTELLIGENCE- MANAGING EDITOR BOLAJI ADEBIYI six months of 2020 to THE OMBUDSMAN KAYODE KOMOLAFE is an urgent need to put a stop to loss of innocent GATHERING CAPABILITIES 3,016 incidents within lives that defines this season. We therefore reiterate OF THE POLICE AND STATE the same timeframe that security agencies need to step up their acts and SECURITY SERVICE in 2021. THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED strengthen not only inter-agency coordination to The unprecedented EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/CHAIRMAN NDUKA OBAIGBENA checkmate the current descent into anarchy but also the GROUP EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS ENIOLA BELLO, KAYODE KOMOLAFE, increase in violent attacks is defying the sustained ISRAEL IWEGBU, IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU, EMMANUEL EFENI intelligence-gathering capabilities of the Police and State narrative among analysts that the northwest is relatively DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, Security Service (SSS). more peaceful compared to the northeast. From Kaduna ANTHONY OGED ENGBE As we have also repeatedly pointed out, it is DEPUTY DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OJOGUN VICTOR DANBOYI to Katsina and Zamfara, none of the seven states within SNR. ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR ERIC OJEH important for all the critical stakeholders in the country the zone is immune to the orgy of bloodletting. But the ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR PATRICK EIMIUHI to look beyond politics at a time like this and render CONTROLLERS ABIMBOLA TAIWO, UCHENNA DIBIAGWU, NDUKA MOSERI incessant attacks on local communities and kidnapping DIRECTOR, PRINTING PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO whatever assistance they can in the bid to put an end to of people by criminal groups suggest a more sinister TO SEND EMAIL: first [email protected] the current carnage, which clearly puts all at risk.

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. ASSAULT ON NIGERIAN DIPLOMAT IN INDONESIA

hile Nigerians contend with police brutality at intruders. When they finally make it, they take to the streets of the world`s most populous countries, one can safely conclude that the home, it seems that police in other countries are those countries where the backbreaking conditions of life are blissful country is managing to keep its head above the waters which literally following events back home. Or how else can compared to the chaos in Nigeria. submerged Jakarta, its capital, forcing it to seek out a new capital. That one explain the torture of a Nigerian diplomat in So, other countries consider Nigeria a shipwrecked country of their police have brutalised a Nigerian is unforgivable. That the police faraway Indonesia by Indonesian policemen in weather-beaten citizens who may well become baits in elaborate but anywhere brutalise any Nigerian is unforgivable. broad daylight? insidious attacks on human dignity. Indonesia is the theatre this time While a lot of countries treat our citizens with dreadful disdain, our WHow can one explain the video that went viral and the hapless around but Nigerian citizens have been similarly shabbily treated in security forces tremble at the sight of their citizens. We do everything man`s haunting wails that were roundly ignored by the Indonesian other countries with little consequences. to protect them here so that it will not be said that it was while they police men? It is true that Nigeria has its own fair share of criminals who are visited Nigeria that they came to harm. Nigeria is certainly not the best country in which to be a citizen. For more interested in their bulging pockets than in the image of the The worth of any country can be measured in the worth it attaches many years now, life in Nigeria has become cheap and expendable. It country abroad, but no one country is a saint in the geopolitics of to its citizens wherever they may be. It is not enough that one is called is not only the harsh economic conditions which keep parents up at international crime. a Nigerian citizen. Every Nigerian citizen must be able to feel the night listening to the stomachs of their children rumble out of hunger, It is true that Nigeria has many Hushpuppis but countless support of the country no matter the twist and turn. This support it is the insecurity which has ensured that so many Nigerian roads are countries have embraced far more sophisticated criminals with little invariably means holding to the strictest accounts those who victimise closed for travel and countless citizens have met their end or abducted consequences. So why is it that once Nigerians are concerned, what is Nigerians anywhere in the world. for ransom at the hands of faceless criminals. sauce for the goose is summarily denied the gander? Most crucially, But this may be yet farfetched. The actions of the Indonesian police Countless Nigerian citizens within Nigeria leave their homes in the how does Nigeria respond when any of its citizens is made a bait in seem a mere re-enactment of the brutal police reality Nigerians live at morning unsure thy would return home when the day ends. As a practice games of incompetent foreign police agencies? home. There can be no faking it. If Nigeria is not ready to confront its result of the uncertainty here, many Nigerians look forward to migrat- It is galling that the response has more often than not been one of internal demons here at home, it is only a matter of time before those ing to whichever country is willing to take them. The luckier Nigerians inertia. Whenever something like this happens, the Ministry of Foreign demons recruit foreign counterparts, and make every country a living find government patronage in their haste to flee the country. They are affairs routinely goes through its tepid rituals that amount to no more hell for long-suffering Nigerians. mostly diplomatic personnel seeking refuge in diplomatic posts in far than slaps on the wrists, and silently prays that such incidents are The Nigerian government must seize the opportunity offered by flung but relatively less chaotic countries than Nigeria. not reprised lest retaliatory actions lead to breakdown of diplomatic this ignominy from Indonesia to raise a loud hue and cry so that other For the unlucky and the uninitiated, the nightmare begins. The relations. countries will not only sit up, but take notice and accord Nigerians the road to hell usually passes through the Libyan deserts before cutting One wonders how Indonesia is doing as a country. From the stories dignity that other countries have denied them for so long. through water bodies churning out fury in their quest to drown which have rent the pages of international news media about one of Kene Obiezu, Abuja 16 THISDAY ˾ TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021

Group Politics Editor NSEOBONG OKON-EKONG POLITICS Email [email protected] (08114495324 SMS ONLY) TRENDING NEWS 2023: Situating IBB’s Presidential Picks (I) Still externalising his inner convictions and playing his controversial symphony on the delicate keyboard of the Nigerian state, former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, recently ‘identified’ the qualities of the next president come 2023. Louis Achi explores who fits the bill

Babangida

Osinbajo Fayemi Amaechi Fashola

owered by a trinity of forces made successive interventions interview with the ARISE News, speculations Babangida’s antagonists – an unrelenting drive to suc- as events that fundamentally where he clarified his vision of may adduce for his interventions, a ceed, providence and careful threaten the nation’s political who the nation’s president should common consensus is that his positions planning, the ascendancy of stability unfold. The latest was be, come 2023. cannot be written off lightly. former military president, his recent pre-80th birthday However, beyond whatever Peering at 2023 elections, Babangida GeneralP Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida had pointed out that at this point in (IBB), to the national stage provides a Nigeria’s history, the nation is in dire study in the military-political intrigues need of a leader, who connects with intimately associated with the evolution Peering at 2023 elections, Babangida had pointed the people, tries to talk with them of many African nation states. and not the one who “talks on top He belongs to both the military out that at this point in Nigeria’s history, the of the people.” and civilian wings of the mainstream His words: “If you get a good leader- Northern political intelligentsia, a group nation is in dire need of a leader who connects ship that links with the people and that has largely shaped the national tries to talk with the people; not talking political landscape with its quasi astute with the people, tries to talk with them and not on top of the people, then we would brand of realpolitik. be okay. I have started visualising a From ‘retirement,’ Babahgida has the one who “talks on top of the people good Nigerian leader. That is, a person THISDAY ˾TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 17 POLITICS

Amosun Saraki Olawepo-Hashim who travels across the country and to be Vice President. political maturity and discipline savvy with a calm, cool competence, has a friend virtually everywhere he Fayemi has really networked put him in a good stead with he fits the IBB template. travels to, and he knows at least one widely and fits the profile which many. Osinbajo hides behind an affable person that he can communicate with. ambitious Northern politicians His exceptional performance hymn-singing façade, an inner steel “That is a person, who is very with eye on vice presidency want as governor of Lagos State is that has seen him rise to become the versed in economics and is also a good and agewise, snugs in nicely into an important element in his nation’s second citizen. He is steeped politician, who should be able to talk the IBB template. favour. And he easily fits the in his party’s philosophy and manifesto to Nigerians and so on. I have seen IBB template. Besides, his now and is a great understudy of Buhari. one, or two or three of such persons BUKOLA SARAKI: well-managed relationship with But there are other political calculations. already in his sixties. I believe so if we Former two-term governor his erstwhile godfather, Bola Although he is believed to have no can get him.” Significantly, Babangida of Kwara State (2003 to 2011) Ahmed Tinubu, is also strength political base as protégé of Asiwaju Bola did not specify sainthood as a key and ex-Senate President, Dr. for him. Tinubu, having worked with Buhari for parameter. Bukola Abubakar Saraki, born almost eight years, few can market the December 19, 1962, is a sound, ROTIMI AMAECHI: administration’s programmes better or Who Fits the IBB Template? well-grounded politician with Being the Rivers State House incept/reconceptualise new strategies Against this backdrop is a qualified the sagacity to match. As Sen- of Assembly Speaker for eight to transform the economy and defeat character cast of notable politicians, ate President, he demonstrated years, governor for two terms and corruption and insecurity. who legitimately have their eyes on considerable control, charisma currently minister for almost eight A glimpse into his style was observed the coveted presidential seat. But and mettle. years put Hon. Rotimi Amaechi when he acted in Buhari’s absence – who fits the Babangida template of He straddles both North and in a very strong position ahead and this might have rubbed several age, knowledge, experience and wide South which yields double 2023 calculations. administration hawks wrongly. appeal? advantage geopolitically. The Tough, focussed, at times brash Osinbajo, as a professor of law un- The first six personalities here actually South cannot say they don’t and quick to anger, he is certainly derstands the economy of the country fit the bill. Within their 60s or below, know Bukola, so also the North the poster boy of the Buhari without a doubt. Though he does not they’ve been governors, parliamentar- cannot deny their Abubakar. He administration. The nation’s rail have a political base, however, having ians and ministers before or currently has considerable network locally transformation narrative gives been with President Muhammadu and have contacts across the country and internationally. Leaving him a larger-than-life aura. He Buhari, closing on eight years would courtesy NGF. They are also steeped in open the Peoples Democratic was born in May 1965. have exposed him considerably for knowledge of the economy and politics. Party (PDP) zoning argument A testimony to his directness the big job. Although he is a Pastor, brightens Saraki’s chances. and boldness, Amaechi is one Osinbajo is nobody’s fool. Each time IBIKUNLE AMOSUN: Unquestionably, Saraki has of the few politicians, who have he takes over from Buhari his impact Former governor of Ogun State steeped himself in the nuances clearly communicated his desire to registered loudly. Ibikunle Amosun (born in January of both the private and public be president. More, he is working 1958) and two-term senator is a hugely sector, including the fact that he to achieve this goal and is also GBENGA OLAWEPO-HASHIM: exposed personality and indisputably is smart, intelligent and futuristic. building bridges to that effect. Age-wise, exposure-wise and has nurtured strategic contacts across With his imposing stature that And being a Southern Christian knowledge-wise, human rights activ- board. cuts every glimpse, it is being fits the religious dimension of ist and businessman,Gbenga Toyosi Perhaps his biggest selling point speculated that Babangida prob- the geo-political calculations. Olawepo fits the IBB template. He is is that in the Southwest geopolitical ably had Saraki in mind, when Many believe that he has the clearly a self-made, emerging political niche – the zone clamouring for the he shared his vision of who the financial capacity to prosecute leader. He was born on 28 June 1965. presidency – he’s touted to be closest next Nigerian president should be. the presidential project after his He entered partisan politics in 1995, to President Muhammadu Buhari. heart. And having being Buhari’s when he became National Publicity As a successful account and politician BABATUNDE FASHOLA: campaign DG for the two times, secretary of the National Democratic with formidable political machine in The focussed, brilliant and many believe the battles ahead Labour Party (NDLP) in the transition his home state of Ogun, he brings workaholic ex-two term governor has already been test-run and programme announced by the Abacha into his mix of experience, both the of Lagos State (from May 29, honed for Amaechi. regime. private and public sector trajectories, 2007 to May 29, 2015) and cur- Eventually his party and that of some a scenario, which rather positions him rently the Minister of Works and YEMI OSINBAJO: politicians like Solomon Lar, Alhaji as a frontrunner. Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, In theory, Vice President Yemi Rimi’s SPP, Ciroma and Bamanga was born June 28, 1963. Though Osinbajo should have had his Tukur’s ANC were denied registration. KAYODE FAYEMI: a top-notch lawyer and Senior position as Buhari’s successor Rather than find accommodation in Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), he dusted and clean. His eligibility is the military founded parties, Olawepo State, born in February 1965, with his is also grounded in the economy not in doubt. He is Christian and found association with principled politi- current stint would have done two and key issues of statehood. from the South-west. Age-wise, cians, who opposed the late Nigerian terms as a state chief executive by Fashola’s intellectual savvy, knowledge-wise, economy/politics military dictator Sani Abacha. 2023. He has also been Minister of Solid This group of politicians first or- Minerals Development in President ganised around the Institute for Civil Muhammadu Buhari’s cabinet, from Society and G-34 and later pioneered November 11, 2015 to May 30, 2018. the formation of the Peoples Democratic As the chairman of Nigeria Governors Against this backdrop is a qualified character Party (PDP). Forum (NGF), he certainly has the cast of notable politicians, who legitimately He has traversed Nigeria and has ears of his colleagues. solid contacts. Gbenga, who contested Indeed, he has the advantage of have their eyes on the coveted presidential seat. the presidency in 2019 against Buhari being a Christian. Most of the second is an inner-driven person with the term Northern Moslem governors are But who fits the Babangida template of age, boldness to follow his convictions and speculated to be actually looking at provide leadership. him as a good pairing. Depending knowledge, experience and wide appeal? The Not a governor or minister, Olawepo on which way the zoning cat swings, brings a different mettle to the table many of the Northern prospects want first six personalities here actually fit the bill ahead of 2023. 18 THISDAY ˾
TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021

POLITICS At Last, It’s Victory for Jarigbe Alex Enumah writes that with the declaration of the Court of Appeal Abuja over the weekend that it has become ‘functus officio’ in the Cross River North Senatorial District bye-election, it is now victory for Senator-elect, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe

Jarigbe Odey Agi

Justice Dongban-Mensem

espite on Saturday was said to Court in its judgment declared Jarigbe the Court of Appeal that Jarigbe was the This ordinarily would have put an end to have finally come the way of as the authentic candidate of the PDP for authentic candidate of the PDP in the the whole legal battle for the seat of the Cross Senator-elect for Cross River North the December 5, bye-election for Cross December 5, bye-election. River North Senatorial District since the Court Senatorial District, Hon. Jarigbe River North Senatorial District. While the pre-election matter was ongo- of Appeal is the final court for such matters. Agom Jarigbe following refusal However, the PDP had submitted ing, Jarigbe also joined as a party at the But this was not the case as the two major ofR the Court of Appeal, Abuja to set aside the name of Stephen Odey as its can- National and State House of Assembly contestant from the tribunal to the Court of Jarigbe’s declaration as winner of the December didate in the election. The PDP and Election Petition Tribunal, which held in Appeal, Chief Joe Agi of the APC and Stephen 5, 2020 bye-election for the senatorial district Odey scored a total of 129,207 votes to Calabar. The tribunal presided by Justice Odey of the PDP, again approached the ap- in Cross River State. This is so because the defeat their closest rival, Joe Agi of the Yusuf Mohammad had in a judgment pellate court in Abuja, to revisit and review Court of Appeal which is the final court for All Progressives Congress (APC) who delivered on June 18, 2021, held that Odey the July 30, judgement with a view to setting election matters for national and state house scored 19,165 and while the electoral was the authentic candidate of the PDP it aside. of assembly in two separate rulings held that umpire accordingly declared PDP as for the senatorial bye-election. The panel They had claimed that the appellate court it cannot overrule itself in its own judgement, the winner of the bye-election, it went accordingly ordered INEC to withdraw erred in its decision when it dismissed their especially when it has not been established further to issue a certificate of return to the Certificate of Return earlier issued to own appeals against the judgement of the that there was a slip in the delivery of such a Odey. But when the Court of Appeal in Jarigbe and issue same to Odey. National and State House of Assembly Elec- particular judgement. Abuja upheld the judgment of the FCT However, in a ruling on July 30, a three- tion Petition Tribunal and found merit in Although this is not the first time Jarigbe will High Court which had declared Jarigbe member panel of the Court of Appeal, Jarigbe’s appeal and went ahead to order the be emerging victorious in his bid to move to as the authentic candidate of the PDP in Calabar presided over by Justice Chioma Independent National Electoral Commission the Upper Chamber of the National Assembly, the December 5, bye-election, INEC in Nwosu-Iheme, nullified the decision (INEC) to immediately issue Jarigbe a Cer- this victory however has finally brought to line with the appellate court judgement of the tribunal and ordered the sack of tificate of Return which the electoral umpire an end legal battles for the seat of Cross River in late December, recognized Jarigbe as Odey on the grounds that he was not the “wrongly withdrew” from Jarigbe. They further North Senatorial District which became vacant PDP’s candidate and went ahead to issue authentic candidate of the PDP in the said claimed that the judgment delivered on July owing to the demise of the former occupant, him a fresh certificate of return after it bye-election. The panel subsequently or- 30 in Calabar violated section 285 of the 1999 late Senator Rose Oko withdrew the earlier one issued to Jarigbe. dered INEC to immediately issue Jarigbe constitution having been done without jurisdic- It should be stated that Jarigbe won both Similarly, the Supreme Court in its own the certificate of return which the court tion. In addition, the appellants submitted the pre-election and election suits to secure judgment also affirmed the decision of held was wrongly withdrawn from him. that Jarigbe, who was returned as winner of his seat at the Red Chamber of the National the bye-election did not participate in all the Assembly. In the pre-election cases, Jarigbe stages of the election as required by law. won all through from the High Court to the The appellants therefore asked the court Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. Citing section 246 of the 1999 constitution, to set aside the judgment on account of being Jarigbe had approached a High Court of the a nullity. Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to challenge the Court of Appeal held that its judgment once his disqualification from the December 5, 2020 delivered diligently cannot be set aside except NOTE: Interested readers should continue in the bye-election for the Cross River North Senato- online edition on www.thisdaylive.com rial District in Cross River State. The High where such judgement is fundamentally defective TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 19 20 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 21 22 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 23 24 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 25 26 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 27 28 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 29 30 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 31 32 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY, 
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THISDAY ADVERTORIAL 33 IBB AT 80: A LEGACY OF VISION AND REFORM

BY CHIDI AMUTA excelled in his chosen career and rose to the pinnacle of and pull have endured even in the decades since he his profession and national service. From the crucible of left power and office. ormer military President Ibrahim Babangida harsh beginnings and uncertain fate, Babangida assumed turns 80 today, almost three decades after national leadership at a moment of desperate need. Therefore, whatever maybe the eventual verdict of he left office and returned to his ancestral history on the life and times of this man of many seasons, Minna. Along with family and friends, he With characteristic calmness, confident control and toughness Babangida remains firm in his belief that when the nation will be reflecting on onhis hisjourney journey so far and forged in the smithy of war, the man many Nigerians call IBB called him, he answered with the honest intent and firm thank providence for his eventful life and came to rule Nigeria for eight eventful years. His every step resolve of a true patriot and nationalist. His belief in a his years of service to Nigeria. Babangida in power bore the imprint and surefootedness of a practiced united and indivisible Nigeria and the manifest destiny is not likely to throw an elaborate feast in player in the theatre of power and politics. In leading one of our nation remains unshaken. For him, Nigeria has no deference to the present mood of the nation. of the world’s most engaging nations, Babangida brought other choice than to be great among nations. F to his task an unusual courage and authentic creativity. For the man that many Nigerians prefer to call IBB, Because of his compassionate nature, it would be fair to today is not a destination but a milestone in a personal His vision was clear. He strove to enthrone a free market say that Babangida has remained one of us. He feels our journey. That journey is a long trek of fortitude in the face economy, a two party liberal democracy with clear ideological pain, shares our hopes, fires our aspirations and envisioned of daunting travails. It is a pilgrimage powered by unusual options. Above all, he sought to bring about a fair society a better place where we could all be proud to call home. personal strength and resilience in the face of trials that in which our diversity will be fully deployed towards the Even today, IBB remains a national icon that is hard to test the will of heroes. The Babangida story is an epic of development of the nation. ignore. Three decades after he left office and power, IBB providence and the courage of one visionary individual has dominated our political discourse and engaged our who stepped forward and dared to make a difference. This was the Babangida mission and vision. He brought national imagination on matters of leadership. to this multiple mission a personal charisma and style Growing up as an orphan from age 14 and raised that were distinct. The magnetism of that aura and style No leader can ask for a greater acknowledgment. by a benevolent and caring uncle, Ibrahim Badamasi endeared him to a populace that was not always united Babangida grew up to make a career of soldiering. He in their embrace of him and his policies. Yet, his appeal Continued on page A2 34 TUESDAY, 
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Babangida

the institutions of state, the orientation of the economy, essence of the enlightened state which he sought to the political architecture of the nation as well as the enthrone. ENTER THE fundamental dynamics of the society. These were the SUNSHINE MAN: essential pillars of the Babangida administration. THE n the 27th of August, 1985, Ibrahim Babangida stepped onto the saddle as Nigeria’s new THE VISIONARY ENLIGHTENMENT military leader. From the onset, he took on the unusual title of “President” which for REFORMER an unelected military officer signaled an PRESIDENT Ounabashed political conception of his role and mission. His olitically, Babangida was ideological without abagida was enamored of the power of ideas. preposterous choice of the curious title of ‘President’ was being an ideologue. With the benefit of hindsight, Even now, he is at his best in the Babangida a curious departure in a tradition of military interventions perhaps his oft quoted preference for ‘…a little was and still is at his best in the company of where even the vilest despots assumed the innocuous to the left and a little to the right’ defined his people of ideas. Your welcome is warmer if title of ‘head of state’. That choice resonated with echoes essentially right of center liberal preference. He you are bringing something new and fresh of great missionary and visionary military statesmen Pdetested ideological labels but instead adopted a liberal toB the table. elsewhere in world history. evolutionary approach to steering society towards his Babangida was first and foremost a man of ideas. Babangida came to power at a time of grave national essential right of center position. He ruled through a methodical deployment of ideas anxiety. The frontiers of freedom were severely constrained His preference was for a free market economy supported on literally every subject in terms of the economy, the just as the reputation of the military regime that preceded by a liberal democratic political order in the pursuit of political system and the society. him was one of insensitivity and frowning indifference. a fair society. The national economy was in tatters because government Perhaps we passed through eight years of an was broke and oil prices were in severe depression. Babangida’s impeccable faith in Nigeria came wrapped enlightenment without realizing its full import.This is in a series of reform ideas which he sought to converted the essential reason why his rule can be described as Therefore, beyond the restoration of basic freedoms into policies and programmes to be quickly deployed an era of enlightenment. and the easing of tensions in the polity, Babangida chose and tested in the life of his administration. For him the the path of reform from the onset. He sought to reform diversity of viewpoints and poicy approaches was the TUESDAY, 
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THISDAY 35 ADVERTORIAL IBB AT IBB

gravitate around the poles of winners and BABANGIDA’S those opposed to the winner. The two party option obliterated PEOPLE OF IDEAS religious and geo ethnic polarization in political alignment. Democratic choice was is constant companions were some of the simplified to a choice between opposites. nation’s most outstanding men and women of But it was a bipartisanship imposed from ideas. He constantly sought the diverse views above, complete with party logos, guiding and perspectives of intellectuals. He recruited ideologies and ready-made party offices. them to work with him as ministers, advisers, Up to the present moment in time, the Hheads of specialized agencies and friends. It can be safely advantages of the two party option would said that to date, the Babangida administration featured seem to have vindicated itself as Nigeria’s the largest collection of people of ideas in government. ultimate political party destination. Just a sampling: The birth of the Social Democratic t
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Babangida with former late President Nelson Mandela of South Africa Babangida with late M.K.O. Abiola 36 TUESDAY, 
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THISDAY 37 IBB AT IBB ADVERTORIAL ADVERTORIAL

Sani Abacha with Babangida

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 Accordingly, president Babangida reorganized the Nigeria Police into the present zonal command structure. Similarly, the architecture of national intelligence and security was THE INSTITUTION BUILDER: reorganized from the former monolithic National Security t has been observed that a major part of Africa’s political problem is the Organization(NSO) to the present three branch structure of: preponderance of strong men with weak institutions. Babangida, a remarkably strong and enlightened military ruler embarked on the establishment of several t
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creation of strong national institutions. In the domestic sphere, Babangida was obsessed with the establishment of a robust institutional framework for nation building. In the entire history of post colonial Nigeria to date, the Babangida administration is on record for establishing the highest number of national institutions to carry the burden of his sweeping reforms in major areas of national life. Most of these INTERNAL reforms and institutions have endured to the present. SECURITY: Some of the highlight included: t
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Babangida with President Muhammadu Buhari GUARD IDEA p to the time he left office, Babangida was never in any doubt about the unsettled nature of inter-ethnic relations among Nigerian groups. It was his conviction that our federation was still unsettled, with many real and potential flashU points. The present and future nature of our internal Third Mainland Bridge, Lagos security challenges would overwhelm the police and distract the professional military. the final official presidential flight out of Lagos as the nation’s capital. On this symbolic flight the presidential He believed that the police is too mild and civil to aircraft was escorted by a ceremonial formation of Nigeria contain armed insurgency while the military is too fierce MOVEMENT OF Air Force Alpha fighter jets. to be pressed into combatting fellow Nigerians with its characteristic terminal precision. The solution was to THE FEDERAL In a short symbolic but emotional farewell ceremony establish a mid intensity intermediate force- a National in Dodan Barracks in Lagos before the flight, Babangida Guard- based in the states and specially trained and CAPITAL TO ABUJA: captured the essence of the movement of the nation’s indoctrinated to manage internal security with a mixture capital from Lagos to Abuja: “the movement to Abuja is of resolute force and patriotic compassion. The National n the morning of 12th December, 1991 a sign of hope, a dream come true… and a momentous Guard would contingents in every state and specialized (12-12-91), President Ibrahim Babangida phase in our determination to build a nation”. national units in the key flash points nationwide. That was and a contingent of administration leaders the origin and rationale of the National Guard concept and presidential aides departed the Murtala On arrival in Abuja, the modest presidential motorcade under Babangida. Mohammed Airport, Lagos, for Abuja. It was headed for the newly completed Aso Rock Presidential Babangida with former President Goodluck Jonathan Babangida with former President Abdulsalami Abubakar O 38 TUESDAY, 
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Aso Rock Villa, Abuja

leadership of two major world bodies. General Olusegun Obasanjo vied for the Africa slot for the United Nations Secretary General position. Although Obasanjo lost the bid to Egypt’s Boutrous Ghali, the point had been made that Nigeria was ready for world leadership. On the 18th of October, 1989, Emeka Anyaoku of Nigeria was elected Secretary General of the Commonwelath at a meeting of heads of government in Kuala Lumpur. Following the success of ECOMOG, Babangida followed up with soft power initiatives to cement Nigeria’s clout as a major regional power in Africa. The initiation of the Technical Aid Corps (TAC), founded in 1987 and modeled after the American Peace Corps of the 1960s provided Nigerian trained manpower to place their skills at the disposal of fellow Third World countries spanning outwards from the African Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries. Nigerian graduates and professionals were posted as far afield as the Fiji Islands, Botswana, Equitorial Guinea, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica etc. The Corps is still alive today. Similar soft power initiatives took the form of the Concert of Medium Powers initiated by Bolaji Akinyemi as Foreign Minister. It was a Nigerian initiative designed to project Nigeria as a regional power in Africa and a major voice in international affairs. The original membership of the Concert included countries like Algeria, Argentina, International Conference Centre, Abuja Venezuela, Yugoslavia, Austria, Zimbabwe, Brazil, India, Egypt, India and Indonesia, Malaysia, Mexico, Senegal etc. The aims of the initiative included provision of a forum for international action to cater for the interests of rising powers of the world. FOREIGN The release of Nelson Mandela from 27 years imprisonment on 11th February, 1990 and the rapid progress towards POLICY a multiracial democratic South Africa was a tribute to Nigeria’s long standing support to the anti apartheid TRIUMPHS: struggle. Not surprisingly, Nigeria was one of the first countries to be visited by a free Mandela. oreign policy is usually not the favorite zone of transient military Nigeria was among the first African countries to establish dictatorships. Their sense of mission diplomatic relations with a free South Africa and to resume is usually defined by a certain diplomatic relations with Israel after a protracted break tentative brevity and quest for in protest over the Palestinian question Fdomestic political legitimacy and international The shift to Economic Diplomacy was designed to acceptability. But Babangida was different. tie Nigeria’s external exertions to the nation’s economic His grand vision of Nigeria saw a bolder interests. Nigeria had previously expended huge resources more assertive and even regionally powerful to support major foreign policy initiatives without any Nigeria. With Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi as Foreign tangible economic returns. These included the anti Minister, Babangida pursued the kind of bold Apartheid and liberation struggles in Southern Africa. and activist foreign policy that only befits an ambitious regional power. Federal Secretariat, Abuja He was not shy to project Nigeria’s power in the West African sub region hence his direct military INFRASTRUCTURE Villa. Babangida had initiated the Aso Rock Villa project intervention in the civil wars in both Liberia and Sierra after abandoning the ongoing State House in central Abuja Leone. He saw the civil wars in both countries as direct HIGHLIGHTS: for security reasons. On this occasion, the President was threats to the regional security of West Africa. welcomed by a small party of colorful horse mounted ne of the challenges that the Babangida guards. At a short commissioning ceremony, the president In August 1990, contingents of the Nigerian army administration had to contend with was a dedicated the new complex as the permanent seat of arrived Monrovia to commence the ECOMOG operation. consistently low oil prices. For most of the government to the eternal service of the Nigerian nation. The Nigerian force was supported by a small Ghanaian time, oil prices gravitated around $9 a barrel contingent, which was allowed to provide the first force except during the brief first Gulf War. Yet, He declared that the complex was deliberately set against Commander of ECOMOG, General Arnold Quainoo. He Othe administration undertook some very remarkable the backdrop of the majestic granite landmark of the was to be succeeded by an unbroken chain of Nigerian infrastructure projects which remain national landmarks. Aso Rock which was to become the name of the Villa. force commanders. The most remarkable include the following: This was intended as an eternal tribute to and symbol of ‘the permanence and indestructibility of our nation’. The Babangida administration never shied away from t
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-BHPT TUESDAY, 
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THISDAY 39 ADVERTORIAL IBB AT IBB t
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DPVOUSZ GENDER EQUITY & WOMEN EMPOWERMENT ne of the most remarkable aspects of the Babangida administration is its gender sensitivity. That aspect is a by- product of the prominent role played by the late First Lady, Hajia Maryam Babangida in the Opresident’s administration. She stepped forward to identify practically with her husband’s grassroots empowerment and poverty alleviation programmes. Babangida and Maryam Mrs. Babangida was passionate about women empowerment and the pursuit of gender equity. She carried that gospel to all corners of the nation and mobilized the rural womenfolk. Most importantly, she enlisted the urban elite women to provide enlightened leadership for their less privileged rural compatriots. Her effort in this regard was complemented by the President’s deliberate policy of involving women at the highest level of policy making and governance. Prof. Grace Alele Williams became Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin. Maria Shokenu became managing director of Peoples Bank. Specifically, Mrs. Babangida’s Better Life for Rural Women programme was targeted at the empowerment of rural women. Its focus was empowerment through skills acquisition and financial empowerment and inclusion. In the process, rural women rediscovered themselves and their power while their creativity and productivity were unleashed. Accordingly, the nation discovered the hidden treasure of rural womanhood. Through countless product exhibitions, seminars, conferences and several conscious efforts, Mrs. Babangida brought the plight and strengths of Nigeria’s rural womenfolk to the forefront of national discourse and international Aisha Muhammed recognition and reckoning. POVERTY ALLEVIATION: he quest for a new social order was very close to the heart of General Babangida. He constantly tasked his team to seek ways of mitigating the inequality that was increasing in the society. In spite of embracing a free market system for theT country, General Babangida believed that it was the responsibility of a compassionate government to give capitalism a human face by mitigating the alienating effects of market competition. The concern was part of the effort to ameliorate the harsh effects of the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) and his economic reform agenda. His administration came up with a very comprehensive poverty alleviation and rural development programme. The administration had easily the most systematic and well thought out poverty alleviation programme in our history to date. Aminu Halima It included the following aspects: Aisha is a successful mobilizer on gender equity issues, t
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Their marriage resulted in four remarkable children: in a broad variety of areas ranging from banking and Aisha, Muhammed, Aminu and Halima. finance, oil and energy. He is currently the Chairman Through the government’s Mass Mobilization Programme, of Unity Bank Plc. there was massive public buy-in to these programmes Happily, each of these children has justified the excellent which ensured their popularity and success within a Halima is a business woman with interests in agriculture relatively short space of time. educational opportunities that they have received from this remarkable family. and property development. 40 TUESDAY, 
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THISDAY IBB AT IBB ADVERTORIAL

SOME MEMORABLE IBB QUOTES:

We may not knownow tthosehose who will succeedd uus.s. BButut wwee know those whoo wwillill NOTNOT succeed usus

The idea is to hhave ttwo political parties; one a little to the right and the other a If a leadership in a When peace is sacrificed, little to the left. democracy arrogates to order vanishes and with it itself absolute wisdom and law and the freedom which knowledge, governance soon it ought to protect. The challenge as we saw degenerates into it was to restructure the an absolutism. An address to the International Press economy decisively in the Institute, 52nd General Assembly, Nairobi, Kenya May, 2005. direction of a free modern -Kaduna, 17th December 2002 at the Launch of IBB: Heritage of market as an appropriate Reform. environment for the cultivation Nigeria must overcome of freedom and democracy and the constraints imposed by the the natural emergence of We were a military past, the fears and hesitations a new social order. regime that sought to lay inhibiting the present. And take the foundations for freedom the bold and giant leap and liberty in a complex into the future. We should use this society opportunity of democracy to -15th October, 2000, Hill Station correct past mistakes and not –27th August 2003, Public Hotel, Jos. Address at the close of a to blunder anew. Presentation of Governance in symposium on The Babangida Regime: Nigeria: the IBB Era” by John Shagaya Problems and Perspectives. TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 41 42 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 43 44 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 45 46 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 47 48 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 49 50 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TR N TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 UTH ASO TR N & E A U WEEKLY PULLOUT TH ASO R LAWYER& RE

‘With 10,000 Pending Appeals, the Supreme Court is Overworked’ Mrs Hadizatu Uwani Mustapha II TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY IN THIS EDITION Collection of

N TR SO UTH & REA

N TR SO A WEEKLYUTH & REA PULLOUT Rent Arrears: LAWYERTUESDAY,AUGUST 17, 2021 Effect on Quit /Forfeiture Notice Issued Page IV

How Reverend ‘With 10,000 Pending Appeals, the Supreme Sister Moneme Court is Overworked’ Made History Mrs Hadizatu Uwani Mustapha as Canon Law Graduate QUOTABLES Page V ‘It is only a dictatorship that won’t listen to the people.’ - Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Lawyer, Leader, Pan Yoruba Group, Afenifere Bozimo Tasks Judiciary ‘Politics is not a do or Workers on die affair.’ - Ezenwo Enhanced Nyesom Wike CON, Performance GSSRS, POS, Lawyer, Page V Life Bencher, Governor of Rivers State

Juvenile Courts for Child Offenders Coming Soon, AGF Malami Page V THISDAY • TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 III THE ADVOCATE Why Politicians Prefer Election Tribunal to Electronic Voting Greetings from Port Harcourt This resulted in the Tribunal attaching absolutely no weight to the result sheet, since the maker of the reetings from the metropolitan garden ONIKEPO BRAITHWAITE document did not testify before it. The electronic transmitted results, would undoubtedly come in city of Port Harcourt - well at the [email protected] time of writing this piece anyway. extremely handy in these type of situations, as the I came to attend the 4th Memorial [email protected] transmitted results not only speak for themselves, Emmanuel Chinwenwo Aguma, SAN, Twitter: @TheAdvocate but would corroborate as true or denounce as false, KSC Lecture/Public Discussion (he is the figures in result sheets. thGe immediate past Attorney-General of Rivers State, The example used by Dike Udenna, immediately who joined the saints triumphant on August 10, brought to mind the case of Senator Rochas Okorocha’s 2018 - May his soul continue to rest in the bosom of election in Imo State, in which the Returning Officer the Lord. Amen). The event took place at the NBA had revealed that he had been kidnapped and The forced to declare Rochas Okorocha as the winner House, Port Harcourt. As we drove from the airport to town, the road looked familiar, but, somehow of the election. Shockingly, Senator Okorocha was looked different. It then dawned on me that, since still given his certificate of return, and is happily I visited Port Harcourt last year, the road had been Advocate sitting in the Senate Chamber as the duly elected widened and upgraded. And, when we arrived at Senator representing his constituency! G.R.A., I could barely recognise the place. Every Dike Udenna also commented on the deploy- road we passed through had also been newly done, ment of electronic transmission of results, to rule complete with pavements and drainage. This is out the incidence of non-INEC parties like the the kind of development which Nigerians yearn Police, submitting election results as evidence to for in every part of every State, throughout the the Election Petition Tribunals, as again, in the case country - infrastructural development. “Apart from it being easier for of the Imo State Gubernatorial election, where the results tendered by the Police to the Tribunal, was A Brief Summary of the Lecture Politicians to rig elections if the voting what was used to jet the candidate who came fourth The theme of the Lecture was very topical and in the election, Senator Hope Uzodinma, to the apt -”Implication of Electronic Transmission of system is manual, our Election Petition position of the winner. Again, in the event that Results on Election Petitions”; and yours truly, the Police tendered conflicting results (I still have my humble self, played the role of Moderator for system seems to favour Respondents - questions as to whether the Police is the proper the two very able Panel Discussants, Hon. Justice party to tender election results), the electronically Frank Onyiri of the Customary Court of Appeal, transmitted results would be a means to ascertain Rivers State, who has served as a member of the almost a win-win situation for them” the veracity of those other results so tendered. National and State Houses of Assembly Election Petition Tribunal, Oyo State in 2019, and is currently Conclusion serving as the Chairman, Local Government Election All in all, those of us who were in attendance at because there is a presumption and policy of a strong case. the Lecture, left with a better understanding of Appeal Tribunal, Rivers State; and Mr Dike Udenna the EA, that an election is properly conducted Dike Udenna talked about how results were Okoronkwo, aka Dike Udenna, a legal practitioner why Politicians, especially those already sitting by INEC, until such presumption is rebutted changed during their manual transmission, from in elective positions, are opposed to the electronic and Head of Chambers of Bridgestone Law Attorneys, by the Petitioner. He submitted that electronic the polling unit to the INEC Collation Centre. transmission of results, and why they are happy to based in Port Harcourt. transmission of results would more than go a How Petitioners, who by virtue of the results take their chances at the Election Petition Tribunal As the Moderator, I introduced the famous Section long way, to not only to affirm the integrity declared at the polling units, had won elections, and Court as Respondents. Apart from it being 52(2) of the Electoral Act 2010 (EA), and gave a brief of an election, but reduce the hitherto almost but by the time there is a proper declaration of easier for Politicians to rig elections if the voting overview of its history, from the outright prohibition insurmountable burden on the Petitioner, of results by the Returning Officer, to the chagrin system is manual, our Election Petition system of electronic voting machines in the 2010 version, having to prove the Petition, for several reasons; of the Petitioner, the figures magically change seems to favour Respondents - almost a win-win to the 2015 amendment which permitted voting including the fact that, because Petitioners are and the opponent who lost the election is situation for them. to be done in accordance with the procedure given a very limited amount of time to examine declared the winner; and because of some of What then, is the difference between our National determined by INEC. I submitted that though it their witnesses (10-14 days or so; one court the aforementioned obstacles which exist in Assembly (NASS) members and a military dictator- was not explicitly stated, as the law presently stands, day obviously not being the full 24 hours, but proving the election petition, the opponent who ship, in terms of both of them trying to perpetuate the use of electronic voting machines, or electronic maybe 2-4 hours), and the number of witnesses was the loser in the election, is sworn in as themselves in their positions? None. It is only the voting or electronic transmission of results or manual sometimes running into over a hundred, since the winner. He submitted that, the practice of method that differs. While the military employs voting, are all methods which can be determined usually, witnesses must come from every polling unscrupulously changing results between the sheer brute force to remain in government, our and employed by INEC to conduct elections, and unit that is said to have had a problem, as well polling unit and the final declaration, would be NASS members are doing so by manipulating the there is absolutely nothing preventing INEC from as also presenting polling agents to testify; it greatly reduced if the results are electronically laws to suit their purpose, while trying to introduce transmitting results electronically. Come to think of is almost an impossible task for Petitioners to transmitted, especially in the case of transmitting useless Bills to gag those who complain about their it, it is the Senate that is actually trying to drag INEC prove their cases within the appointed time, results from distant or inaccessible places like unholy activities. back to the dark ages and frustrate the progress of and invariably, the Tribunal will rule that the riverine areas, back to town. On my way to the airport after the programme, the voting system, by unconstitutionally insisting Petitioner having failed to discharge the requisite Several other issues were raised, like that of I visited the site of the Nigerian Law School, Rivers that the latter seeks its approval and that of the evidential burden to prove their petitions, the INEC officials being made to declare the wrong State Campus - the Dr Nabo Graham-Douglas, NCC, before being permitted to transmit election Petition automatically fails. He submitted that, results under duress. Dike Udenna gave the SAN Complex on Abacha Road by Agip junc- results electronically. Assuming that it was even the electronic transmission of results would example of a Returning Officer who complained tion and Ikwerre Road; and also the site for the constitutional to seek approval from a third party assist in no small measure, to make an election that he was forced sign a false result sheet, but Law School Staff Quarters by Presidential Hotel, (which it definitely is not), I even wonder what petition a more level playing field for both the was too afraid to come and give evidence at G.R.A. I also visited the Emmanuel Chinwenwo gives the Senate the wherewithal to be the ones Petitioner and Respondent, as the results would the Tribunal, because he felt that his life and Aguma Judges’ Quarters, in honour of the late to approve electronic transmission of results? Are have been uploaded electronically from source, that of his family would be in danger if he did Attorney-General on Tombia Extension, erected by they engineering experts? without the need for hundreds of witnesses so - that those who could threaten and force the Rivers State Government. The Estate is quite to come and testify, thereby making the case him to sign a fake document, would be able to picturesque - there are at least 20 duplexes in the Hon. Justice Onyiri possibly more clear cut, and giving the Petitioner locate his home easily and deal with him (and Estate with well manicured lawns, complete with It was sad to see that there is a consensus that Nigeria a better chance, if indeed, such Petitioner has his family) decisively, if he testified against them. tennis and basketball courts, and other modern is seriously deficient in infrastructure, and Justice Onyiri conveniences. Judges who opted for cash payments began his discussion by stating this fact. However, in lieu of the accommodation, were given N150 I submit that there is still ample time before 2023, million each. I am pleased that Judges in Rivers for NCC and the various networks to correct any State, are being appreciated and taken care of. I transmission issues, if they are truly lacking (though hope other States will take a cue from Lagos and INEC has rebutted this claim). Justice Onyiri then Rivers State, and do the same for their Judges. remarked that the whole electoral process should be electronic, and not just a part of it. He was of P.S. the opinion that you cannot have manual back up What a Country! processes, that is, that inputs cannot be manual and Resident Doctors are paid N5,000 a month hazard then transmission of results, electronic. That holistically, allowance, and a significant number of Doctors the process must be digital, as the input into the did die last year due to the Covid-19 hazard. system obviously bears on the output - certainly Yet, Senators and Members of the House of if it is garbage in, it will definitely be garbage out! Representatives are paid N303,960 and N297,781 On the issue of the Senate attempting to foist itself monthly or thereabouts, for their Newspaper and NCC into the election process, when Section 78 allowance. It seems that, in Nigeria, Legislators of the Constitution is quite clear on the role of INEC, reading the ‘Dailies’ and keeping up with current Justice Onyiri concluded that all that is required, affairs, is more important than the lives of Doctors is for INEC to conform to the NCC standard; that and their role as life savers! (Even though the INEC certainly did not need NCC’s permission effect of their avid newspaper reading, with the or that of the Senate, to go ahead with electronic will of the people clearly contained in those transmission of results. As for the Senate, Justice newspapers, is not necessarily their priority or Onyiri submitted that all that is required of them, reflected in their law making). And, indirectly, is to put in place a good legislative framework, Legislators reading newspapers also seems more instead of trying to sneak themselves into the process. important to the Nigerian Government than the lives of Nigerians, because when there is Dike Udenna a strike, those with urgent medical needs run Dike Udenna spoke from an extremely practical point the risk of death, if they don’t receive the much of view, as a counsel who has handled several election needed attention and treatment. A senseless petitions. He made some interesting submissions. and grossly inequitable system, that needs to He started off on the premise that the odds are be addressed as a matter of urgency. Food for stacked against a Petitioner in an election petition, INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu Late Emmanuel Chinwe Aguma, SAN, KSC thought! IV TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY LAW REPORT Collection of Rent Arrears: Effect on Quit /Forfeiture Notice Issued Facts that Exhibit E was served on the Appellant and disbelieving DW1’s denial of such service, he Respondents, as Lessors, the brilliant arguments of learned counsel on entered into a contract of lease the legal requirements of proof of service of with the Appellant for a plot of notice of breach of covenant become valueless. land situated at Plot B, Sabiu Ajose, It is settled law that, a party who has not Surulere Lagos. The contract was appealed against a finding or holding in the a 26-year Development Lease for judgement appealed against, cannot validly the erection of a building within two years, to argue contrary to that finding or holding. bTe completed on/or before 1979 on payment Having accepted as correct the judgement of of annual rent payable in advance. The suit the Court of Appeal affirming the decision was initiated by the Respondents in 1993, to of the trial court that Exhibit E was served recover the property, due to non-compliance on the Appellant, further to the evidence of with leasing terms of erecting a building on PW1, the Appellant could not argue that the the land. service of the notice was not proved. Both the trial court and the Court of Appeal Deciding issue two, especially as it relates found that the Appellant, as Lessee, breached to waiver of rights to forfeiture upon col- the terms of the lease. Dissatisfied with the lecting rent up to 1995 before the issuance decision of the Court of Appeal, the Appellant of the Notice to Quit in 1992, the Supreme further appealed to the Supreme Court. Court reiterated the findings of the trial court in this respect, and the affirmation of the Issues for Determination salient finding by the Court of Appeal. It The following issues were considered by the was the position of the Appellant that the Apex Court: Honourable Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, JSC Respondents demanded for rents which it 1. Whether the Court of Appeal was right by paid up to 1995. By the evidence before the court however, the Respondents had written affirming the decision of the trial court, that In the Supreme Court of Nigeria to the Appellant demanding arrears of rent the Respondents pleaded and proved service Holden at Abuja owed, and the Appellant responded by issu- of statutory “Notice of Breach of Covenant” On Friday, the 5th day of February, 2021 (Exhibit E) as required by law. ing a cheque for payment (Exhibit O) dated 2. Whether the Plaintiff/Respondents have Before Their Lordships 4/5/1992. Counsel for the Respondents was waived their right to forfeiture by demanding Olabode Rhodes-Vivour unequivocal in his determination to pursue and collecting rent up to 1995, before the Musa Dattijo Muhammed forfeiture of the lease, and communicated purported Notice to Quit was allegedly issued Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju this to the Appellant before the payment in line with the averments in the Defendant/ Abdu Aboki was made. More so, the trial court found Appellant’s Statement of Defence. Emmanuel Akomaye Agim that the Respondents only collected rent till 1991, contrary to the position of the Arguments Justices, Supreme Court Appellant that it paid rent up to 1995. This Counsel for the Appellant submitted on the SC.105/2010 finding was affirmed by the Court of Appeal. first issue that the manner of pleading the The Appellant however, failed to challenge Notice of Breach of Covenant offends Order 17 Between this significant finding of the lower courts. Rule 4 of the High Court of Lagos State (Civil There is no ground of appeal on the holding Procedure) Rules, 1994, which stipulates that Pillars Nigeria Limited … … … … Appellant of the Court of Appeal, that the Appellant pleadings should contain only statement in a deliberately falsified the years for which it summary form of the material facts on which And alleged to have paid rents. The Apex Court the party pleading relies for his claim/defence, agreed with the inference of the court below but not the evidence by which they are to be 1. William Kojo Desbordes in affirming the decision of the High Court, proved. Counsel argued that the Respondents 2. Mrs. Doris N. Forson (Nee Desbordes) … … … … Respondents that even though the Respondents collected ought to have pleaded the legal effect of the (Substituted for Mr. Louis Desbordes and rent till 1991, there was a letter by counsel Notice of the breach as a fact, before it was Mr. Albert Desbordes on 14th May, 2018) for the Respondents - Exhibit N - written in tendered. He argued further that the name 1992 clearly showing an intention to terminate of the legal practitioner who issued the said the lease. Thus, the collection of arrears of Notice should have been pleaded, and that (Lead Judgement delivered by Honourable Emmanuel Akomaye Agim, JSC) rent before approaching the court, cannot failure to call one Mr Alade Akinsote, who amount to a waiver of the Notice to Quit effected the service of the statutory notices as issued to the Appellant. a witness, was questionable. He prayed the be admissible in evidence, so long as the Respondents should have pleaded the His Lordship, Ogunwumiju, JSC stated that court to invoke the provision of Section 149(d) facts by which such document is covered legal effect of the notice of the breach as a of the Evidence Act (now Section 167(d)), to the fact that a landlord collected rent on a are expressly pleaded – OKONKWO v fact before it is tendered, their Lordships property still in occupation or possession hold that counsel for the Respondents withheld COOPERATIVE AND COMMERCE held that the position of the Appellant evidence. of the tenant after notice to quit, cannot by BANK (NIG.) PLC & 2 OTHERS stemmed from a misconception on the any stretch of the law, equity or imagination Countering the submission, counsel argued modern rule of pleadings, as the old (2003) 8 NWLR (Pt. 882) 347. In this amount to a waiver of the notice to quit on behalf of the Respondents that the statutory case, the Notice of breach of covenant legal terminology of pleading has since even where the notice had expired, and notices were validly served, and that despite was pleaded, and the facts of the averred changed in line with new procedures. The the denial by the Appellant, DW1 admitted breach was pleaded. The Appellant did not pleader does not need to state the legal the tenant refused to yield possession in in evidence, service of the said processes deny the existence of the Notice of Breach result of a document or facts pleaded, time. The notice to quit would subsist until subsequent to the denial in the pleadings. of covenant, and the general traverse in as this will amount to argument in it is formally rescinded by the landlord, More so, the Appellant did not object to paragraph 4 of its Amended Statement of pleading – EZEWANI v ONWORDI or when a fresh tenancy agreement is tendering of the said document(s) at trial in Defence is of no value. Though the name of (1986) 4 NWLR (Pt. 33) SC. 27. In this entered into. the suit, and so, cannot be heard to complain the legal practitioner that issued the notice instance, having pleaded the document in at the Supreme Court. of breach of covenant to the Appellant controversy, there was no need to plead Appeal Dismissed. Regarding the second issue, it was the its legal effect, as that would amount to should have been pleaded, but failure Representation submission of counsel for the Appellant that to do so is of no moment. Further, the argument in a pleading. The Apex Court the rent paid was subsisting till the year 1995 Chigbo Anainugwu with V.I.P Ozumba for document being in evidence, the Appellant concluded that, the Appellant failed to the Appellant. and that the receipt of arrears of payment did not object to the admissibility of the show that the decision of the trial court during the subsistence of the statutory notice(s), notice of breach in evidence as exhibit, he which held that Exhibit E was served necessarily destroyed the validity of such Notice. Tochukwu Onuike with Nnemeka Otagburuagu is thus, estopped from contending that on the Appellant, was wrong. with Adaeze Anah for the Respondents. it is not sufficiently or properly pleaded; On the issue of service of the Notice of Court’s Judgement and Rationale more so, as the essence of pleadings is to Breach of Covenant (Exhibit E), the trial PLEASE NOTE: The holding that “Equity Deciding the first issue, the court restated the ensure that parties do not spring surprises court disbelieved the testimony of DW1 trite position of law that pleadings should demands that wherever and whenever there is on opponents. that he was not served with the said notice. controversy on when or how notice of forfeiture contain facts and not evidence. Documentary Regarding the submission that the The Court of Appeal affirmed the decision evidence need not be specifically pleaded to or notice to quit is disputed by the parties, of the trial court, on the credibility of the or even where there is irregularity in giving witnesses. The Appellant abandoned its notice to quit, the filing of an action by the appeal against the decision of the Court landlord to regain possession of the property “….. the collection of arrears of rent of Appeal affirming the decision of the has to be sufficient notice on the tenant that trial court, on the credibility of PW1 and he is required to yield up possession”, was an DW1. Learned counsel for the Appellant, obiter dictum of His Lordship, Honourable before approaching the court, cannot has correctly restated the law on the Justice Helen Moronkeji Ogunwumiju, JSC. requirements of proof of service of the amount to a waiver of the Notice to notice of breach of covenant. But, having Reported by Optimum Publishers Limited, accepted as correct the decision of the Publishers of the Nigerian Monthly Law Court of Appeal, concurring with the Reports (NMLR)(An Affiliate of Babalakin Quit issued to the Appellant” decision of the trial court believing PW1 & Co.) THISDAY • TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 V NEWS

Reverend Sister Winifred Moneme Former Administrator, National Judicial Institute, Justice Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, SAN Rosaline Bozimo How Reverend Sister Moneme Made History as Canon Law Graduate

Alex Enumah in Abuja Area of Anambra State, Rome (Phd. in Civil Law) level. are strange bed fellows. the areas of forensic, medical studied at the Catholic and the Nigerian Institute In a chat with our Cor- Religion is like a vocation, and religion. Following her success at the Institute of West Africa; of Chartered Arbitrators. respondent shortly after the while law is a profession. The Reverend Sister cum March 2021 Final Bar Exams the Catholic University of The field of Law concerns Call to Bar ceremony in “Like every other profes- Barrister appealed to parents of the Nigerian Law School Eastern Africa, (where she the rules and ordinances Abuja, the Reverend Sister sion, there are good and to allow their children and her subsequent Call to bagged a degree in Canon governing the Christian who was overwhelmed with bad people, so the issue of choose their careers, and Bar last month, Reverend Law); Urban University community, specifically joy for being among the morality really is an indi- not force theirs on their Sister Winifred Moneme is Rome, Italy (Diploma in the Catholic Church. 884 graduates of the law vidual thing. Besides, the wards. said to have made history Italian Language); Pontifical Moneme, who is a mem- school to be called to the rules of professional conduct Moneme similarly ap- as the second Nigerian to University Lateran, Rome, ber of the Congression of Nigerian Bar, dismissed the for Lawyers and ethics does pealed to the management have studied Canon Law. Italy ( Masters in Civil Sisters of Jesus the Saviour, perception that the legal not accommodate immoral of the Nigerian Law School Reverend Sister Moneme, Law); Pontifical University Rivers State, combined both profession lacks morality. conduct”, she said. to improve in the area of a native of Agulu in An- Lateran (Phd. in Canon Civil and Canon law and “It’s a wrong perception According to her, she academic facilities, especially iocha Local Government Law); Pontifical University, studied both at the doctorate to say that religion and law, desires to practice law in the digital aspect of it. Judge’s Harassment: Bozimo Tasks Judiciary Workers on Lawyers Boycott Enhanced Performance Steve Aya Registrars, Court Clerks and “The process of producing, In a keynote address, the Bailiffs held in Abuja. transmitting and retrieving Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Court in Benin The former Administrator of the The theme of the workshop records of proceedings and Hon. Justice Ibrahim Tanko Steve Aya at an August meeting of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), was: ‘Enhancing Staff Perfor- communication as ordered by Muhammad, observed that Lion Bar in Benin, which Justice Rosaline Bozimo, has mance For Effective Justice the court, will not be possible considering the roles being reiterated the need for enhanced Delivery’. without your input. played by the category of The Nigerian Bar As- was attended by Senior sociation, Benin Branch performance by Judiciary work- The workshop, according “Your capacity to provide staff, efforts should be made Advocates of Nigeria, ers in the country, in order to to Bozimo, would not only the required services to court to empower them adequately has threatened that it’s Benchers, elders, leaders remain relevant and effective afford them the opportunity cannot be over-emphasised, to be able to deliver. members will boycott a and members of the Bar. in the ever-improving world to get equipped with necessary because your proficiency “As Court Registrars, Process particular High Court No. The statement alleged of Judiciary. tools needed to overcome and propriety determine the Clerks and Bailiffs, you should 6 in Benin, over what it that the Judge harassed, Bozimo stated this while challenges, she added that first impression and inspire understand the core functions of it would abreast them with confidence in every court user your office, and be acquainted described as harassment insulted and intimidated delivering a welcome address and intimidation of its at the opening ceremony of a current developments in the that approaches the court for with global best practices for SANs and other very senior virtual National workshop for discharge of their duties. remedy, Bozimo noted. optimum performance.” members, by the presiding members of the Bar, in the Judge. The body of Lawyers presence of their clients and has therefore, given an would-be clients. order to that effect to its Juvenile Courts for Child Offenders Coming members via a statement. ‘Any member who In a statement signed by flouts this directive under Soon, AGF Malami the Association’s Chairman any guise, shall be liable Steve Aya between the Federal Ministry of Represented by the Special launched the first phase of the and Secretary, Pius Oiwoh to be blacklisted at the Justice, the Nigeria Police and Adviser to the President on amnesty and decongestion for and Andrew Lawani respec- Branch and made to face In its commitment to enhance the United Nations Children Special Duties and Research, children found against the law, tively, the body insisted that its disciplinary Committee. child rights, the Federal Govern- Education Fund (UNICEF). Office of the AGF, at the oc- while the borstal institutes ‘Consequently, all mem- ment said it would soon create a The highpoint of the two-day casion, Professor Mohammed across the country will be a its decision to boycott the specialised court where victims event was the meeting of Justice Lawal Ahmadu, the AGF noted kick-start point for the second court was a unanimous bers of the Association are of rights violations, especially Actors, to Launch the Justice for that the move will not only fast phase. one, with regard to the directed to embark on a children offenders, would access Children Coordination Forum track cases and give justice to In his address, the Minister “incessant and relentless total boycott of the court, justice. and their inauguration. victims, it would also strengthen of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola harassment, intimida- and are not permitted to The Attorney-General of the The inaugurated entities the justice system. described the period of child- tion, outright insults and carry out any business Federation, Abubakar Malami, are drawn from the FMOJ, He said, “Judges have been hood as delicate, saying the deliberate embarrassment to in the said court till a SAN said this recently in his FMWA, LACON, NAPTIP, assigned to be trained in the Ministry is worried by spates keynote address at the project NHRC, NSCDC, NIALS, NJI, enforcement of the Child Rights of bad parenting which has led counsel” appearing before subsequent review of this launch of the EU – UNICEF NBA, FIDA, UNICEF, UNODC, Act. This for me, will strengthen to menace like banditry, drug the Judge. directive by the general Access to Justice Programme UNDP, OHCHR, IOM, ILO, the justice system in line with abuse by children, and all forms The decision according to meeting”, the statement for Children held in Abuja. University of Abuja and the the MDG goals. of social malfunctioning beyond the statement, was reached added. The initiative is a collaboration Buni Yadi Foundation. “The AGF’s office has also their mental capacity. VI TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY IMAGES he 4th Emmanuel Chinwenwo Aguma, SAN, KSC Memorial Lecture/Public Discussion themed ‘Implication of Electronic Transmission of TResults on Election Petitions”, took place last Tuesday, August 10, 2021 at the NBA Port Harcourt Branch House. Here are some of the personalities who attended the event….

Engr. Samuel Nwanosike, Chairman, Ikwerre LGA, Rivers State (left) and Chima Aguma

Mrs Onikepo Braithwaite, Moderator of the Panel Discussion and the Panelists, Hon. Justice Frank Onyiri (left) and Mr Dike Udenna Okoronkwo (right)

Chief Judge of Rivers State, Hon. Justice S.C. Amadi

Widow of Emmanuel Chinwenwo Aguma, Mrs Inime Aguma and their sons, Eze (left) and Chima (right) Chairman of the Occasion, former NBA President and former President, Body of Benchers, O.C.J. Okocha, SAN

Mrs Inime Aguma (left) with the Wife of the Rivers State Governor, Hon. Justice Eberechi Suzette Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice representing Governor Nyesom Wike, Professor Nyesom-Wike Zaccheaus Adangor, SAN

Cross-section of Guests THISDAY • TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 VII IMAGES

L-R: Hon. Justices Florence Fiberesima, Green, Elsie Thompson, Mrs Inime Aguma, Mrs Eberechi Nyesom-Wike, Hon. Justices Dagogo-Jack and Meg Okpara

Editor of This Day Lawyer, Mrs Onikepo Braithwaite (left) and Mrs Inime Aguma Chima Aguma (left) and Dike Udenna

Chima Aguma, Dike Udenna with other Lawyers

L-R: Former Rivers State Commissioner for Information, Mr Emma Okah, Mrs Inime Aguma and Mr Chima Aguma

Mrs Miebi Aguma (left) and Mrs Inime Aguma

Head of Chambers Aguma & Co, Mr Wori N. Wori

L-R: Rivers State Commissioner for Transport, Mr Osimah Gina, Professor Z Adangor, SAN, Mrs Inime Aguma, Mrs Eberechi Nyesom-Wike, Mrs Miebi Aguma, Mrs Dibou Aguma, and Ms Ngozi Aguma Younger brother of Chinwe Aguma, Hon. Igo Aguma VIII TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY COVER

Immediate Past Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Mrs Hadizatu Uwani Mustapha ‘With 10,000 Pending Appeals, the Supreme Court is Overworked’ The Apex Court, despite being the highest court in the land is not without its own challenges, particularly underfunding and understaffing. In addition to these acute problems, their Lordships are overburdened with frivolous appeals that should not be clogging up their dockets. Between 2007 and 2019, over 10,000 appeals were filed at the Apex Court. For the outgoing second Female and 17th Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Mrs Hadizatu Uwani Mustapha, these are important issues that require urgent attention, in order to make the Supreme Court operate at an optimal level. Having enjoyed a successful and fulfilling career, as she bows out on the attainment of the mandatory retirement age of 60, Mrs Mustapha shared her life’s story and experience from her robust career with Onikepo Braithwaite and Jude Igbanoi, narrating how she managed to put in place, numerous innovations and drive several initiatives while at the Supreme Court, despite the paucity of funds. And, going forward, among other endeavours, how she intends to establish an NGO devoted to the Girl Child indly, tell us about Registrar of the Supreme Court. then North-Eastern State, his home and prosecuting civil cases. It also yourself, your I was born on the 8th of Au- State. Back at home, I was enrolled included the prosecution of election journey from the gust, 1961 at Bukuru in the old in Primary two at Yerwa Practicing petitions before the Election Petition beginning to your Plateau State, into the family of Primary School. In September, 1974, tribunals; and I had been member qualification as a Alhaji Mohammed Mustapha and I gained admission to Government of various Committees, for instance, Lawyer, and finally Hajia Rakiya Mustapha. I am the Girls Secondary School, Maiduguri the Local Government Assets Sharing Kto the position of not just Chief second of his eighteen children. after completing her primary Committee, Borno State. Registrar (CR) of the Supreme Court, He had two wives, one of whom education same year. In 2000, I was appointed Chief but to being the second female ever was Hajiya Rakiya Mustapha, my In 1980, I was admitted to read Enterprise Officer of the Bureau of to hold that position which you mother. My father, Alhaji Mustapha Law at University of Maiduguri, Public Enterprises(BPE) in Abuja, and assumed on May 31, 2017? Over was an employee of the Borno where I graduated with a Bachelor by 2004, I returned to the service of the years, CRs are hardly seen nor State Ministry of Agriculture and of Law Degree (LLB) in 1984, and the Borno State Government, and this heard. Kindly, let us into what your Natural Resources until he retired, was subsequently called to the Bar time around, as the Acting Director of role entailed as the Head of the but before then, he had worked in 1985. the Public Prosecutions (DPP). After Supreme Court Registry. in the same capacity in the old After my National Youth Service a little stint in the position, in 2005, I I became the 17th Chief Registrar Plateau State. Corps (NYSC) in 1986 in Kano, was appointed as the Senior Special of the Supreme Court when I was At the age of seven, precisely I joined the service of Borno Assistant (Admin) to the then Governor appointed to the seat on the 31st of in 1968, I got enrolled at the Local State Ministry of Justice as State of Borno State. By 2007, I became the May, 2017. Since the appointment of Education Authority (LEA) Primary Counsel II in 1987, where I rose Director of Legal Services for the Borno C.O. Madarikan in 1958, until my School in Bukuru where I went to the position of Acting Director, State Independent Electoral Commis- ascension to the seat, it was only through primaries one and two, Citizen Rights Department in 1999. sion (INEC). And, between 2007 and Mrs. G.O. Jackman who was female, before my father transferred his At the Borno State Ministry of 2011, I was the General Manager of making me the second female Chief service to the Government of the Justice, I handled several duties, the Maiduguri International Hotel. such as public prosecution which ‘However, the inflation rate which involves preparing and filling trial Before the end of 2011, I was ap- documents in respect of suspects pointed the Deputy Chief Registrar before the appropriate court. (Works and Services) for the Sharia rose from 11.4% in 2019 to 13.25% in Other duties carried out were Court of Appeal, Federal Capital Ter- writing legal advice to the Police, ritory, Abuja, and also as the Deputy 2020, and to 15. 79% in 2021, rendered attending to petitions submitted Chief Registrar (Procurement), a posi- by members of the public, vetting tion I held till she I was elevated to useless any increase in budgetary of legal documents, drawing of the position of the Chief Registrar of contract agreements between the the Supreme Court in 2017. allocation to the Court’ State Government and contractors, I retired from this current position THISDAY • TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 IX COVER ‘With 10,000 Pending Appeals, the Supreme Court is Overworked’ on the 8th of August, 2021, after attainting the mandatory retirement age of 60. I am married with children and grandchildren. As the CR, how did you cope with the daunting task of running the Apex Court Complex, especially as the N110 billion budget allocated to the Judiciary has remained stagnant since 2019, while Nigeria has been faced with spiralling inflationary rates? Inflation has been a major chal- lenge, in managing funds appropriated to the Supreme Court. In fact, our budgetary allocation has witnessed marginal increase from 2020 to 2021 as can be seen below: 2018 - N9,631,309,652.05 2019 - N9,106,309,652.05 2020 - N10,201,646,285.76 2021 - N12,880,824,019.00 However, the inflation rate which rose from 11.4% in 2019 to 13.25% in 2020, and to 15.79% in 2021, rendered useless any increase in budgetary allocation to the Court. Besides, the increase in allocation has been for the Capital sub-head, only leaving other sub-heads to suffer lack of funding. You stepped down as CR about two weeks ago. In your four years in this role, you were responsible for several laudable projects including the remodelling and computerisation of the Supreme Court Library, con- struction of the Ceremonial Court, furnishing and modernisation of the Supreme Court Clinic (I personally Immediate Past Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Mrs Hadizatu Uwani Mustapha witnessed the rapid response of the Clinic’s personnel complete with The executed projects are: NCMS, which is seamless. Supreme In fact the skeletal services being resuscitation equipment, when I 1. Data Centre Court will then go fully electronic, rendered to the new Justices was only was at the Supreme Court recently, 2. Retrofitting of Court One doing away with papers. made possible, based on financial and another visitor collapsed on 3. Establishment of the Legal You were also interested in intervention from the National Judicial the premises in my presence), mail. staff welfare, ensuring that Council (NJC). digitalisation of the court rooms, As I speak, Court Two is being salaries are paid as at when due, Yes, I believe that for a faster and employment of high definition retrofitted by the same JITPO-COM; facilitating foreign workshops more efficient Judiciary, the funding audio/video recording equipment the projects being executed are sine for staff training when funds of the Judiciary needs to be reviewed. to compare with international best qua non for the ultimate automation were available, creating new I supported the JUSUN strike because practices, to mention a few. What of the judicial process in Nigeria office spaces for more Justices. the Judiciary is one big family, and is the level of automation at the through the Nigeria case manage- Do you believe that the Judiciary when a part is affected, the whole Supreme Court Registry? How ment system. is underfunded? Do you believe is affected. But, to be fair, in respect compliant are the staff and their JITPO-COM was inaugurated that if the Judiciary was al- of the Federal Judiciary, the Federal Lordships in the use of IT? Tell us in 2012 to chart a course for the located more funds, it will be Government of Nigeria has fully about these and other initiatives introduction of Court Technology more efficient, and the wheels complied with the provisions of the you may have instituted as CR, in Nigerian Courts, to enhance the of justice will move faster? Did 1999 Constitution, with respect to and the legacy you have left for efficient and speedy disposal of you support the JUSUN Strike? autonomy and independence for the your successor to build on. cases. Has it had any positive impact Federal Judiciary. From January 2020, every court To complement the efforts of on judicial autonomy or on the Unfortunately, our Judicial Of- process filed in our Process Unit, is JITPO-COM, the Supreme Court Judiciary as a whole? Many have ficers are poorly paid because the being uploaded and stored in a shared has taken over the maintenance complained that our Judicial law regulating their salary (Certain folder by the Litigation Department of the retrofitted Court One. The Officers from bottom all the way Political, Public and Judicial Office and ICT Unit. This will ultimately be Court has also started an ambitious to the Supreme Court Justices Holders Salaries and Allowances ETC) used by the Nigeria Case Management program of digitising the entire are grossly underpaid. Kindly, Act 2002, needs to be amended after System (NCMS), one of the processes archives of the Court, as well as share your views with us the last amendment in 2008. Inflation of court automation being deployed pending live appeals. The Judiciary is seriously under- has rendered the salaries of Judicial by the Judicial Information Technology Capacity building for our ICT funded, because of the envelope Officers absolutely inadequate to cater Policy Committee (JITPO-COM) of the and Litigation staff for the imple- budgeting policy in use for the for their needs. National Judicial Council (NJC). mentation of the NCMS, is being Judiciary. Funds appropriated for You are only the second female The Supreme Court is one of the vigorously pursued. the Judiciary under the envelope Chief Registrar of the Supreme pilot sites of JITPO-COM because, as Once the uploading of the budgeting policy, are a far cry from Court, the first being Mrs Jackman of today, the Committee has executed pending Appeals is completed, what the Judiciary needs to operate who held the position almost 40 three projects in the Supreme Court, the ICT Unit will put the Hon. efficiently and optimally. years ago. Why is this so? Is it that and is currently executing another one. Justices through the use of the For example in 2020, eight Hon- gender discrimination discrimina- ourable Justices were appointed tion exists in our profession? Why for the court towards the end of a does there seem to be a paucity financial ey ar, so that there were of women holding positions, not ‘I supported the JUSUN strike no funds to rent residential accom- just at the highest levels of our modation and procure official card profession, but in Government, in for them. There were not enough the Legislature, and in most walks because the Judiciary is one offices for all the Honourable of life in Nigeria? What can be Justices, and the additional offices done to change this narrative, to big family, and when a part is we provided for them could not be get a fair deal for women? Do you provided with the relevant books think that like Rwanda, affirmative needed for the them to function affected, the whole is affected’ effectively. cont'd on page 10 X TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY COVER ‘With 10,000 Pending Appeals, the Supreme Court is Overworked’

cont'd from page 9 action laws should be passed to bridge this gap, so that women can take their rightful place in governance? I do not think that there is discrimina- tion against women in our profession, but I also think that affirmative action is required to increase the participa- tion of women in our legislative and judicial sectors. About three years ago, the Su- preme Court held in the case of C.E. & M.S. LTD v PAZAN SERVICES NIGERIA LTD, that service of court processes by SMS, email or any other electronic means is valid. To what extent has the Apex Court ensured compliance by Lawyers? An important aspect of the imple- mentation of information Technology into the Judiciary in Nigeria, is the introduction of the legal mail in Supreme Court. The JITPO-COM, in conjunction with the NBA, is ensuring every registered Lawyer acquires the legal mail free of charge, before filing any process in the Supreme Court.Once processes are served, the Lawyers receive messages electronically via the legal email and notification through et xt messages, informing them of the service. In fact, proof of service is automatically generated by the system, printed by the Registrar and put in the court’s file; Immediate Past Chief Registrar of the Supreme Court, Mrs Hadizatu Uwani Mustapha and this is good and proper service. The NBA recently expressed seri- Justices keeps growing, while to the Apex Court, especially ous concerns over the several names some veteran Senior Advocates adjournment dates are given flimsy interlocutory appeals made a call, that conferment of the found missing from the Supreme far into the future. What is which can be taken with substan- Court Roll. For the past few years, rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria the way out, to reduce their tive matters. Do you subscribe (SAN) should be deferred for the many Lawyers have been unable to workloads? to any of these ideas? Others process and obtain their Stamp and next couple of years. What reasons In the Supreme Court, we have say that more Justices should did they give for their position? Seal, on account of the fact that been assigning Registrars to as- be appointed to the Apex Court. their names couldn’t be found on Do you agree with them? Should sist the Honourable Justices with What suggestions do you have, those who qualify for the rank be the Roll. It was also alleged that research. I agree that they do need to make justice swifter there? it is a problem of the Registry. denied conferment? legal Research Assistants, but, the From 2007-2019 alone, we have BOSAN is of the view that the criteria How is your office addressing this surest of way reducing their work about ten thousand appeals pend- serious complaint? for conferment of the coveted Rank load in the court, is to cut down on ing. The Honourable Justices of the of SAN has been weakened by the To the best of my knowledge, there the number of Appeals coming to Supreme Court of Nigeria, are the is no case of missing name on Roll for extant guidelines and watered-down the Court by amending the blanket most overworked Justices of any the standard and core requirements of Lawyers in Nigeria domiciled with right of appeal as contained in the Supreme Court in the entire globe. the Court. My attention was recently excellence and distinction, because from Constitution, and vesting the Ap- The way to reduce this burden for 2015-2019 we witnessed 100% increase drawn to a problem in the Credence peal Courts with power to grant the Justices, is not by creating a and Enrolment Unit of the Litigation in the number of those conferred and leave for appeals only in deserving proliferation of more Divisions of 600% increase from 2020 to 2021. With Department, which handles enrolment appeals that present novel issues the Supreme Court, or by increasing of Lawyers. I set up a Committee which respect, I do not agree that the standard to be determined. the number of the Justices of the has been lowered. I am however, sure resolved the issues within two weeks, It has also been suggested Court. With respect, the surest and the Lawyers called to Bar in 2020 that the LPPC will give a dispassionate that the Supreme Court should way to reduce congestion in the consideration to the submission made who did not get enrolment numbers, be unbundled, to create at least Supreme Court is as follows: by the respected body. can now come to the Unit and obtain three Divisions in the three (a) Amend the Constitution Going forward, what are your their numbers. regions of the country. Oth- and restrict the Right of Appeal, so plans for the future having stepped For many years now, it has been ers have suggested that there that similar issues already decided suggested that their Lordships at should be a Division for Election upon by the Court should never be down? the Apex Court should be supported Petitions, and even a Division allowed to come before the Court My parents cared for the Girl Child, with Legal Research Assistants, for constitutional matters only, on appeal again. and gave me every opportunity and like we have in other jurisdictions. so that justice at the Supreme (b) Amend the Constitution and assistance to achieve my full potentials. This suggestion does not seem to Court will be more swift. Still restrict both pre and post-Election To pay back to memory of my parents have been well received, and the others have suggested that not Appeal matters for Governorship, and society, I will, in my retirement, volume of work of the Honourable all matters should go on appeal State and Federal legislature to set up an NGO that will cater for the terminate at the Court of Appeal. Girl Child in Nigeria. Along with ‘The way to reduce this burden Only appeals on Presidential elec- my NGO, I will pursue farming, as tion, should come to the Supreme I have already set up poultry. I am for the Justices, is not by creating Court. also engaged in fish farming. If the above is done, a full compli- Additionally, I will establish a con- a proliferation of more divisions ment of the Justices of the Court, sultancy firm, as well as a law firm that is, 21 Honourable Justices that will focus on being a Solicitor of the Supreme Court, or even by should be able to dispense quick, and corporate consultant. efficient and effective Justice. increasing the number of the Justices You also double as the Secre- Thank you very much. We wish tary to the Legal Practitioners you the very best, as you begin a of the Court’ Privileges Committee. Recently, new chapter in your life. THISDAY • TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 XI IMAGES embers of the Body of Benchers converged in Abuja recently for Mthe Call to Bar Ceremony of new wigs. Here are some of the Benchers and award winners at the event

Members of the Body of Benchers

Members of the Body of Benchers filing into the 2021 Call to Bar Ceremony; L-R: Immediate Past Chairman of the Body of Benchers, OCJ Okocha, SAN, Chairman, Council of Legal Education (CLE), Chief Emeka Ngige, SAN and President, NBA, Olumide Akpata

The Chairman, CLE, Emeka Ngige, SAN presenting the Law Students for Call to Bar by the Body of Benchers

L-R: DG, Nigerian Law School, Professor Isa Chiroma, SAN, Emeka Ngige, SAN and Attorney-General of Borno State, Kaka Shehu Lawan Ms Bukola Alada receiving her 1st Class Certificate

The Overall Best Student of 2021 Bar Exams, Ms Bukola Fatimat Alada (2nd right), her parents Mr & Mrs Alada (2nd & 3rd left), Chairman Body of Benchers (4th from left), DG, Law School A cross-section of First Class Law Graduates and Prize winners with the Chairman of Body of (1st left) and Vice Chairman, Body of Benchers (1st right) after Ms Alada received 16 prizes Benchers, Hon. Justice Bode Rhodes-Vivour, Emeka Ngige, SAN and Professor Isa Chiroma, SAN at the Call to Bar ceremony

Benchers! L-R: Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, Chief Emeka Ngige, SAN, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, Hon. Justice Monica Dongbam-Mensem, PCA, Hon. Justice Mojeed Owoade JCA and Asiwaju L-R: Chief Ben Anachebe, SAN, his wife and son, all Lawyers, welcoming their daughter, Chidera Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN Anachebe (2nd left), a 2021 Law Graduate called to Bar XII TUESDAY, AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY TALKING CONSTITUTIONAL DEMOCRACY DR. MIKE OZEKHOME, SAN 0809 889 8888 SMS ONLY NASS: Manual or Electronic Rigging? (Part 2) pace. Those in opposition certainly know Introduction something we don’t know. The way they (PDP) were pushing for this electronic ast week, we saw how the National transfer of results or electronic voting thing Assembly (NASS) was thrust into chaos, using NGOs, international agencies and all during the consideration of the Electoral that, should tell you something”. Amendment Bill on 15th July, 2021. While This statement says it all. It highlights that, the this amendment should have been an debate on the electronic transmission of votes was upgrade to the Electoral Act, 2010, the merely a power play battle for the APC, and not rLeverse seems to be the case. Today, we shall conclude a battle for the betterment of future elections in our discourse. Nigeria, and the Nigerian citizens in general. It is a despicable truth, that urgent and relevant Senate’s Ruling on Electronic Transmission of issues affecting the country and its citizens are Results argued on a power level, rather than with the The Senate passed the Electoral Act (Amendment) interests of the country at heart. Bill, 2021, after a clause-by-clause consideration of the National Assembly Complex Report of the Committee on INEC. The Committee on Is the Senate’s Ruling Constitutional? INEC had reported that “INEC may transmit results NO! The decision of the Senate on the electronic to be adjudged to be adequate and secure by the ing closely to deliver free, fair and credible of elections by electronic means, where and when transmission of election results, lack any form NCC and approved by the National Assembly elections in our country for the benefit of our practicable”. Senator Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi (APC, Niger) of constitutionality. For the avoidance of doubt, before INEC can transmit votes electronically, is citizens. They are also aware that two network proposed an amendment to this recommendation, Section 78 of the 1999 Constitution provides that null and void to the extent of its inconsistency providers, MTN and Airtel, have assisted JAMB on the basis that electronic transmission of results “the registration of voters and the Conduct of with the 1999 Constitution. conduct their examinations across Nigeria.” In would disenfranchise some Nigerians in areas with Elections shall be Subject to the Direction and It must also be stated here that, the Constitution the same way, these network providers, alongside poor or no network coverage. Senator Albert Bassey Supervision of [INEC]”. The Constitution further reserves the right to expressly make provisions, other network providers in Nigeria, can assist INEC Akpan (PDP, Akwa Ibom) contended this proposal provides that: “INEC OPERATIONS SHALL and such provisions are interpreted literally. An to ensure 100% network coverage for the electronic via a motion which was unsuccessful, after a voice NOT BE SUBJECT TO THE DIRECTION Act, Bill or even the courts cannot add words to transmission of election results, as assured. In any vote. The approval of Senator Sabi’s amendment by OF ANYBODY OR AUTHORITY”. The words the Constitution, nor subtract from it. As a result, event, where the network coverage in Nigeria is not Senate President, Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan, was met direction and supervision suggest that INEC is the golden latin maxim of expression unius est 100%, what stops the Senate from ordering the NCC with chaos and uncomplimentary verbal exchanges the primary body to determine how elections are exclusion alterius – the explicit mention of to ensure that the network coverage be guaranteed amongst Senators. to be conducted, and also supervise the conduct one thing is the exclusion of another – applies before 2023? Why become penny wise, and pound Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (PDP, Abia), then cited of elections. Thus, the Constitution expressly and to the Constitution. The Constitution expressly foolish? Why not thrust Nigeria into the technological Order 73, calling for division and allowing Senators to impliedly provides that INEC is not subject to the provides for INEC to supervise and conduct all advancement that a developing country like Nigeria contest the ruling of the Senate President. The Senators governance of anybody, authority or agency, let elections, but did not provide for INEC to be lacks? Questions, questions, questions. took turns to vote on the amendment proposed by alone to talk of a body that is not recognised by supervised or subject to the direction of anybody, Lastly, the Senate cannot settle what INEC can Senator Sabi, and at the end, 52 Senators voted for the Constitution (NCC). arm of government or agency. See the cases and cannot do. INEC is an independent body, as Sabi’s amendment while 28 voted against it. All 52 It is obvious that the “electronic transmission of PORTS AND CARGO HANDLINGS guaranteed by the Constitution. Although the Senate Senators who voted for the amendment were from of election results” constitutes the conduct and SERVICES CO LTD & ORS v MIGFO (NIG) can amend the Electoral Act of 2010 and make subse- the APC ruling party, while the 28 who voted against supervision of election, which INEC has been LTD & ANOR (2012) LPELR-9725(SC); quent provisions affecting INEC, it CANNOT make were of PDP. There is no other parliamentary or exclusively tasked with. It is equally obvious that EHUWA v ONDO STATE INDEPENDENT provisions which encroach on INEC’s independence. legislative decision taken elsewhere in the world, the National Assembly has the power to create ELECTORAL COMMISSION & ORS (2006) Therefore, their decision that the national network where the divide is based solely on a political basis, laws and amend Acts, but such power to create LPELR-1056(SC); and, WEST AFRICAN coverage is adjudged to be adequate and secured rather than a merit basis. and amend laws must be consistent with the 1999 UTILITIES METERING & SERVICES by NCC and approved by the National Assembly Consequent upon the conclusion of the open voting, Constitution, which is the highest law of the land, LTD v AKWA IBOM PROPERTY AND (and any other future decisions that affects INEC’s the Senate President, thus, approved the amendment the grundnorm and fons et origo. INVESTMENTS CO. LTD (2019) LPELR- independence), is contrary to the provisions of the which provided for electronic transmission of results The supremacy of the Constitution to all other 47089(CA). Therefore, the Senate’s decision 1999 Constitution and is null and void. during elections, but with a caveat that, “the national laws and Acts, has been emphasised in a plethora to subject to it INEC’s constitutional power to network coverage is adjudged to be adequate of cases. In UGBOJI v STATE (2017) LPELR- conduct elections via electronic transmission of Conclusion and secure by Nigerian Communications Com- 43427(SC), the Supreme Court per AMIRU votes (if INEC so wishes) is patently null and Simple. Let INEC be. Let INEC supervise and mission (NCC), and approved by the National SANUSI, JSC (Pp 23 - 23 Paras B - D), void, unconstitutional, unlawful, dead on arrival, conduct elections in Nigeria, however it sees it Assembly”. held thus: and of no effect whatsoever and howsoever. fit. If INEC makes a turnaround and decides “My lords, permit me to reiterate that The Way Forward that electronic transmission of election results is APC’S Unruly Role in this Taboo the Constitution of the Federal Republic Upon the conclusion of the open voting session not practicable, then that is within their purview. It was reported by The PUNCH, that the All of Nigeria of 1999, as amended, had by at the Senate on Thursday, 15th July, 2021, If they maintain however, such transmission is Progressives Congress (APC) had rallied its Senators Section 1, made provision to emphasise the Senate President, Ahmed Ibrahim Lawan, feasible, then it is also within their supervisory to reject moves to adopt electronic transmission of or assert its supremacy. By that provision, stated that: functions. INEC should not be intimidated by the election results in 2023. The source gathered that APC any law/statute or provisions thereof that “there is no victor, no vanquished in this Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021. If same is had been reaching out to its lawmakers through runs riot and violent to the provisions of affair…we want an electronic transmission made into law, they can go to the Nigeria courts zonal caucuses to insist that their position on this the Constitution, or is in conflict with the system for our electoral process, however, and seek a declaration of its consistency with the controversial issue would test their party loyalty. constitutional provision is null and void we want to ensure that no Nigerian is 1999 Constitution. INEC should continue to be Recall that the Senate Committee on INEC, had to the extent of inconsistency. See A.G. disenfranchised in this process, and bold, brave and courageous in granting free, fair recommended the use of electronic transmission of Ondo State v AG of the Federation and time will definitely come when all parts and credible elections in Nigeria. results in its election. The Committee was chaired Ors (2002) 9 NWLR (pt 772) 226”. of Nigeria will have coverage that we all need To conclude, I totally agree with the statement by Senator Kabiru Gaya (APC, Kano) who, on Therefore, where the provisions of the Constitution to deploy our technology to ensure electronic of Comrade Paul Ikechukwu Njoku that: Thursday, 15th July, 2021, voted against the conflict with the provisions of Acts or Bills passed transmission of election results. This has “The Ahmed Lawan-led 9th clueless and use of electronic transmission. When questioned by the National Assembly and State Houses of come to settle the issue of what INEC rubber stamp Senate, has on Thursday, July 15, as to why he voted against the recommendation Assembly, the Constitution prevails. See also the can do, and what INEC cannot. We have 2021, dubiously adopted a legislative banditry in the report of the Committee he headed, he said, cases of OLAGBENRO & ORS v OLAYIWOLA given INEC an electoral Act amended, to which obviously castrated the absolute and “If you prepare something and you later saw & ORS (2014) LPELR-22597(CA); A-G ABIA enhance its performance”. operational independence of our electoral an improved version of it, you can go for it. STATE v A-G. FEDERATION (2006) 16 NWLR This statement of Ahmed Lawan can be tackled umpire, INEC, (in contravention of Section There is nothing wrong if the Chairman of a (Pt. 1005) page 265 at Pages 290 and 291; from three perspectives. First, there is clearly 78 of the 1999 constitution) by voting to allow Committee, supports the amended version of AINABEBHOLO v EDO STATE UNIVERSITY those “vanquished” by their decision – the the National Communications Commission a report he presented”. How is voting against WORKERS FARMERS MULTI-PURPOSE entire citizens of Nigeria. The citizens of Nigeria (NCC) and the National Assembly to specifically electronic voting an improved version? What exactly CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETY LTD. & ANR. have once again been subjected to the horrors, downplay and technically usurp the philosophy does it improve? In my opinion, I believe it further (2007) 2 NWLR (PART 1017) page 33 at page chaos and dastardly acts of election rigging, of the usage of electronic transmission of results solidifies the allegations that the APC rallied its 50 paragraph G and P, 151 paragraphs C-D. ballot box snatching, disruption of polling units, in our elections, devoid of the absolutism of Senators to vote against the electronic transfer of It is clear that the ruling of the Senate on electronic fightings, maimings and killings in upcoming INEC and what was proposed and campaigned election results,. and speaks truth to it. transmission is unconstitutional, null, void, of no elections. The Rule of Law that provides that no in the Electoral Act Amendment Bill. We say In a publication by PremiumTimes.ng on the effect, and is dead on arrival. Therefore, while one, including the Executive, Legislature and the No to election rigging. We say NO to legislative 16th of July, 2021, a high-ranking APC member, the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, 2021 may be Judiciary, should act ultra vires (above the law) banditry against our electoral process. Power whose anonymity was preserved, stated as follows: constitutional and valid, the amendment made to has suffered heavily. The future of peaceful, free, belongs to the people”. (Concluded). “This is politics and as the governing party, Clause 52(3) which subjects the national coverage fair and secure elections has also taken a dive you don’t allow the opposition to dictate the for disaster. So, yes, there is “the vanquished Serious and Trivial in this affair”. There are two sides to every coin. Life itself contains “….. the debate on the electronic transmission Second, INEC has come out to state that not only the good, but also the bad and the ugly. the claims that Nigeria does not have enough Let us now explore this. network coverage to guarantee the electronic of votes was merely a power play battle for the transmission of election results, is false. INEC “Sometimes change will not be given to you; maintains that all network providers in Nigeria you must ask for it” – JM. APC, and not a battle for the betterment of have assured them of 100% coverage for electronic transmission of results. To this effect, INEC’s THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK future elections in Nigeria, and the Nigerian Director of Publicity and Voter Education, stated “There are three critical ingredients to democratic that: “In January 2018, INEC approached renewal and progressive change: good public policy, NCC that it wants a technological-driven grassroots organising and electoral politics”. (Paul citizens in general” Commission, and both have been work- Wellstone) 17.8.2021 /13 14 17.08.2021 PROPERTY & ENVIRONMENT ParaQuick Renders 11 Purpose-built Royal Homes in Banana Island

Architectural drawing of Royal Homes in Banana Island, Lagos, being developed by ParaQuick

Bennett Oghifo homes for discerning people across the country said, stating that interested buyers are expected Anumudu said, “Beside the fact that the homes and, in particular, for those in the Diaspora. It to deposit 50 per cent and pay up on or before are in Banana Island, we’re selling you your own tandalone homes are usually hot in the is also ideal for anyone who seeks a second/ completion, but that the deposit is negotiable. private prime space, as opposed to apartments real estate market. They are most sought retirement home, complete with privacy,” said Regardless, “it will not go below 30 per cent.” or town houses without the privacy we offer. after by realtors because these rare types the Chief Executive Officer of Avoda, Mr. Arinze The homes share common parameter fence Each of the units has its own entrance, except for of homes are usually snapped off the Anumudu, whose company is developing the with the famed Ocean Parade and the Sujimoto three of them. They all have six parking spaces, market in no time, most times during homes for ParaQuick Limited, a member of the signature estate is just across from it. “Royal Homes swimming pool, and these 11 Royal Homes are Sconstruction. Group of companies. is a premium development that encompasses built into about 5000sqms. Each unit rise up The promoters of the Royal Homes, only 11 According to Anumudu, construction of Royal style, grandeur and beauty. It is specially created to three floors and vertical movement up and prized pieces, being rendered in Banana Island, Homes began in June this year, adding that “we for those who want to own their privacy and down these floors is by lift/elevator.” Ikoyi, Lagos, have this strategy in mind when have just completed the pilling for all of them environment. The development consists of 11 The ground floor holds the kitchen, living they envision them as owner-occupier homes, not and we are fixing the ground beams/German classic-contemporary stand-alone units with 5 and guest rooms, first floor has two rooms and only because of the top-notch construction but Floor now. We expect construction to take 10 to bedrooms each, peaking at the second floor.” family sitting and the last floor has the master also because of the premium fittings that each 12 months maximum.” The prime features of the homes include, large and madam’s bedrooms. Each home has its gate, prospective owner will have an opportunity to The homes are sturdy and so is their pricing, open plan spaces; large bedrooms, well-fitted utilities and complete privacy, arguably the only customise. “These homes are being customized which is between N700 million and N950 million kitchen, guest rooms/BQs, lifts, 24/7 security private development on First Avenue, Banana for the prospective occupiers. These are private per unit, depending on the preferred type, he monitored CCTV. Island. It is a good buy, Anumudu said. Sanwo-Olu Charges Lagosians on Waste Bills Bennett Oghifo presented to the Lagos State efficient and effective waste government’s agenda. While commending the In the same vain, the Man- Waste Management Authority management system and enjoy According to him, his operators, stating that they aging Director (MD), LAWMA, The Lagos State Governor, Mr. (LAWMA) in Lagos, called collecting the waste. government has already were doing their very best Mr. Ibrahim Odumboni, while Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, on the people of Lagos “It is an important sector, committed a lot of money in waste management in the reviewing the achievements has charged Lagosians to en- to continue to co-operate particularly now that we are in the sector, particularly in State, he promised to extend of the Agency since the sure that they pay their waste and collaborate with their in a different time, an era of revamping the state’s dump the new compactor truck Sanwo-Olu administration bills as at when due, stating individual PSP Operators climate change with all sorts and loading sites and “we arrangement to them soon, assumed office two years that it’s only by doing so the by paying their waste bills of emissions. believe it is the way.” just as he said in response ago, commended the PSP PSP Operators can enhance regularly, “As a government, we are Governor Sanwo-Olu said to their request that he has operators, pointing out that and make other investments “Let me say that we should committed to doing our very the intention in the presenta- endorsed a jaw-jaw meeting they have acquired 920 trucks in the sector. at all times co-operate and best but as citizens, you have tion of the 102 compactor together with his deputy with for waste disposal within the The governor, who was collaborate with the PSP to partner with us to see that trucks to the LAWMA was them once a year to bring period and urged Lagosians speaking at the unveiling operators as partners, it is it is a win-win situation,” the not to make the Agency go them closer with him and to always pay their waste of 102 new compactor trucks only when we understand that governor pleaded, stating into competition with the PSP familiarise the government bills as Lagos is envisaged and 100 Double Dino bins, we are both partners that the that solid waste manage- operators but to strengthen more with their activities and to become the neatest city in which the State Government operators are able to carry out ment remains critical in his them. challenges. the country soonest. FG to Revamp Workshop in Ijora Fadekemi Ajakaiye for its users. intention now is to put it back are in place to make this facility and Housing had inspected the and long-term measures to train “There is an urgent impera- in place for both skilled and conducive for the training of facility during an assessment tour artisans in various fields in order The federal government has tive of the Federal Ministry of unskilled persons for short- and graduates and non-graduates of the centre towards making to bridge the skills gap and also stated its intention to revamp works and Housing to turn the long-term training”, he said. in craftsmanship. A full-scale policy recommendations”, he said. create millions of jobs in line the Federal Ministry of Works’ workshop around in order to He stated that after the inspec- revamp will commence in “The revamp of this workshop with the policy of the Buhari Central Workshop in Ijora, Lagos. provide mass job creation and tion, the Ministry of Works and January 2022, either from the is channelled towards achieving regime,” he said. This intention was made training of artisans”, he said. Housing would submit its recom- government or through a Public- National Economic Sustainability He interacted with the artisans known in Lagos recently by Hussaini stated that efforts are mendations for consideration by Private-Partnership”, he said. Plan of the President Muham- undergoing training at the the Permanent Secretary, Federal being put in place to upgrade the the Federal Executive Council to He stated that the Ministry madu Buhari administration,” facility and assured them of Ministry of Works and Housing, obsolete equipment as well as revamp the Central Workshop was prepared to ensure new he said. government’s commitment to Alhaji Babangida Hussaini, dur- rebuild it dilapidated structure. of the Mechanical and Electrical technologies were adopted to “We have a formidable team sustaining the Centre. He also ing an inspection of facilities at “In the 1970s through the Development Skills section. replace the obsolete ones, and in place and very soon, we implored the trainees to put the Central Workshop in Ijora. 1980s, this workshop was the Hussaini stated that the Min- also to support the ongoing will restore the glory of this what was learnt into practice Hussaini stated that the industrial hub for fabrication istry was determined to embark plan to continue the produc- centre and more employment and share same knowledge with purpose of the inspection was and production of mechanical, on the immediate renovation of tion of railway parts like it was opportunities will be created,” their colleagues when they get to have a holistic view of the automotive, and electrical parts the centre. “Between now and practiced in the past. he said. back to their respective parts of centre in order to make it better as well as a training school. our December of this year, measures “Earlier the Minister of Works “We will adopt both short- the country. 17.8.2021 /15 16 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY THISDAY ˾
TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 51

Group Business Editor Eromosele Abiodun Email [email protected] BUSINESSWORLD 08056356325 RATES AS AT AUGUST 16,2021 MONEY MARKET REPO S & P INDEX S & P INDEX EXCHANGE RATE OBB 16.75% CALL 4% INDEX LEVEL 547.96% 1/4 TO DATE 2.8% N410.80/ 1 US DOLLAR* OVERNIGHT 17.25 % 1-MONTH 6% 1-DAY 0.51% YEAR TO DATE -18.25% *AS AT LAST FRIDAY 3-MONTH 10% MONTH-TO-DATE 2.00% Nigeria Pumps Additional 45,000bpd Crude Oil in July as FG Activates Two More Oil Rigs

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja the market crisis, which started at 1.410 million bpd. listing of all the oil and gas rigs was 13 in 2018, rose to 16 in of active oil rigs among the in the first quarter of 2020. In all, total OPEC members’ that are operational at a certain 2019, fell to 11 in 2020, a total 13-member OPEC countries With the Organisation of Following the increase, ac- daily production for July was location and demonstrates the negative difference of five rigs with 57, followed by the United Petroleum Exporting Countries cording to the cartel’s Monthly 26.657 million bpd, an increase necessary details such as the between 2019 and 2020, accord- Arab Emirates (UAE) with 43, (OPEC) gradually easing its Oil Market Report (MOMR) for of roughly 637,000 bpd when location of each rig and its ing to the OPEC document. Iraq had 41, Venezuela had 25 tight hold on crude oil pro- August, the country produced compared with 26 million bpd functional status. The situation particularly active rigs, followed by Kuwait duction brought about by the 1.437 million barrels of crude oil in June and 25.4 million bpd It is an important procedure worsened in the third quarter with 24, while Algeria came Covid-19-induced oversupply per day, excluding condensates, in May. as it helps to get an insight of of 2020, when it fell to eight, tops in Africa with 21. and waning demand, Nigeria which are not part of the quota Nigeria’s oil rig count also the active number of drilling then seven in the fourth quarter For the month of July, total pumped an additional 45,000 controlled by OPEC. increased in the month under rigs that are installed on both of 2020, six in Q1, 2021, five in OPEC rig count was 356 as barrels of the commodity in The 1.437 million bpd new review in apparent preparedness offshore and onshore sites and Q2 this year, five in June, but against 354 in June, while total July, THISDAY has gathered. crude production is however, an for the new quota, which was helps in collecting data that increased to seven in July, a world rig count stood at 1,486, However, despite the July improvement on the previous assigned by the oil producers’ assists in analysing several positive difference of two rigs, mainly led by the United States, increase, Nigeria’s production month of June, where 1.392 group, which takes off this factors indicating the status month-to-month. which had a total of 483. figure remained a far cry from million barrels were pumped month. of drilling activities. As expected, in July, Saudi Continued on page 52 its 2 million daily target before per day, whereas in May it stood A rig count is an official Nigeria’s oil rig count which Arabia had the highest list Air Travellers Spent N40bn on COVID-19 Test in Nine Months 10 months after, Auditor-General fails to release audit on disease funds’ utilisation Chinedu Eze in Lagos and also showed. sengers to test for the virus, laboratories. the agency had explained. stopped by NCDC officials from James Emejo in Abuja International air travel resumed which they are expected to do “Currently, it ranges between But THISDAY investigations leaving the country. on September 5, 2020, at the after seven days of quarantine. N36, 000 to N50, 400 naira on revealed that after collecting the Managing Director of Inbound passengers who Lagos and Abuja airports after According to COVID-19 the payment portal. Please note money on arrival many of the Finchglow Travels and former travelled into the country the lockdown occasioned by the protocol from the Presidential that all payments go directly to passengers are not followed up. President of the National Associa- through the Murtala Muhammed pandemic. Steering Committee, passenger on the private laboratories and not A passenger who arrived from tion of Nigeria Travel Agencies International Airport (MMIA), According to data obtained by arrival are expected to proceed to the Presidential Task Force on Brazil recently told THISDAY (NANTA), Bankole Bernard, Lagos and the Nnamdi Azikiwe THISDAY, 575,175 passengers on mandatory seven days self- COVID-19, Nigeria Centre for that after he paid the fee on said, “To a very large extent International Airport, Abuja, arrived Nigeria through the isolation/quarantine in their Disease Control or Port Health arrival, he was neither sent an the Covid-19 protocol we put were estimated to have spent MMIA, Lagos, while 286, 324 selected in-country destination. Services, Federal Ministry of SMS message nor called upon, in place is quite commendable. about a total of N40.212 billion arrived through the Nnamdi Also, the passengers are Health,” it stated. until when wanted to travel But my question is this, Why as payments for Covid-19 test Azikiwe International Airport, expected to show-up at the Speaking recently on why back to Brazil before he went must travellers pay through on arrival, from September 2020 Abuja between September 2020 laboratory/sample collection the federal government insists for the test. their nose? to June, 2021, investigation by and June, 2021. centers on the seventh day of on compulsory test for arriving On the other hand, another “If United States of America THISDAY has revealed. Arriving passengers to the arrival and pay the applicable passengers, the NCDC had said passenger narrated how he was can say COVID-19 test is free, However, the much-anticipated Lagos airport pay about N50, fees for the COVID-19 PCR test. PCR testing for COVID-19 was stopped from travelling because why should you make your release of the maiden interim 400 for Covid-19 test, while those Samples will be taken, and a important in order to protect the he didn’t do the test as prescribed citizens pay that huge sum? I audit report on the COVID-19 arriving at the Abuja airport pay COVID-19 PCR test done. Nigerian populace. after he arrived Nigeria. think it is unfair. I think it is intervention funds has now been about N39, 200, hence the N40.212 Also the Nigeria International “The fragility of our health Also, another passenger told something the government can shrouded in uncertainty, about spent during the period. Travel Portal of the NCDC states system means that we must THISDAY how he arrived Nigeria look into. 10 months after it was supposed The payments are compulsorily that the cost of COVID-19 collectively take responsibility to and was directed to quarantine to be ready, THISDAY’s findings collected on arrival from pas- PCR test varies across private reduce the spread of the disease,” but he did not do that and was Continued on page 52 MARKET DATA AS AT MONDAY, AUGUST 16, 2021 FGN BONDS BILLS OTC FX FUTURES CPs DESCRIPTION Price Yield Change MATURITY Discount Yield Change (%) CONTRACT Current MATURITY Discount Yield Change (%) (%) TENOR Contract Rate ($/₦) 11.150 FGNSB (MONTH) UNCP CP III 27- 100.58 2.87 0.05 NTB 26-Aug-21 2.49 2.49 -0.27 3.69 3.69 -0.21 11-SEP-2021 1 NGUS AUG 25 2021 420.93 AUG-21 12.364 FGNSB NTB 9-Sep-21 2.80 2.81 0.00 VAAG CP I 27- 9.64 9.67 -0.21 12-SEP-2021 100.69 2.90 0.06 2 NGUS SEP 29 2021 422.38 AUG-21 TTNG CP II 31- 12.175 FGNSB 0.57 NTB 16-Sep-21 2.96 2.96 0.14 4.11 4.12 -0.14 10-OCT-2021 101.28 3.51 3 NGUS OCT 27 2021 423.83 AUG-21 SIBP CP I 2-SEP- 11.244 FGNSB 0.68 NTB 30-Sep-21 3.27 3.29 0.41 3.67 3.68 -0.12 16-OCT-2021 101.25 3.64 4 NGUS NOV 24 2021 425.28 21 NBRP CP XIII 10.296 FGNSB 1.16 NTB 14-Oct-21 3.59 3.61 0.68 5 NGUS DEC 29 2021 426.73 4.35 4.36 -0.12 13-NOV-2021 101.45 4.22 2-SEP-21 52 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021
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THISDAY BUSINESSWORLD NEWS

PARTNERSHIP FOR QUALITY EDUCATION… L-R: Country Director for Nigeria, Nexford University, Olamidun Majekodunmi; Managing Director and CEO of Sterling Bank Plc, Abubakar Suleiman; CEO, Nexford University, Fadl Al Tarzi and Divisional Head, Health and Education Sectors, Sterling Bank Plc, Obinna Ukachukwu during the signing of a partnership in Lagos… recently Federal Government’s Funding for Priority Projects in Oil Industry Hits $1.54trn Deficit in June

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja of production called ‘cost in April; in May it was $172 vos/Lagos pipeline expansion, up on the state of affairs at consumers are not paying for recovery oil’. million, while June saw the OB3 supply lines as well as the corporation, saying that at the full value of the petrol The federal government Whereas the total 2021 “cal- release of a meagre $14.2 the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano the time, the government was that we are consuming and through the Nigerian Na- endarised’’ financing obligation million. (AKK) project. subsidising petrol with about therefore, someone is bearing tional Petroleum Corporation was put at $3.21 trillion, with a Some of the ongoing projects The figures showed that in N120 billion monthly. that cost. As we speak today, (NNPC) may have been unable monthly tranche of $536 trillion, in the budget of the NNPC January, the NNPC recorded He said the NNPC could no the difference is being carried to fund its priority projects the data showed that actual include a handful of national a deficit of $259.6 million, longer afford to bear the cost on the books of the NNPC in the oil and gas industry dollar equivalent funding stood domestic gas development $283 million in February, $228 and Nigerians would have to and I can confirm to you that to the tune of $1.54 trillion, at $846 million as of June this initiatives, frontier explora- million in March, $296 million pay the actual cost sooner or the NNPC may no longer be according to a document year, leaving a deficit of $1.545 tion, renewable energy and in April, $148 million in May later, as market forces must in the position to carry that presented by the corporation billion. the Nigeria/Morocco pipeline. and a whopping $333.7 million be allowed to determine the burden and because we can to the Federation Account Al- A breakdown of the figures Others include the Gbaramatu in June. pump price of petrol. longer afford to carry it on location Committee (FAAC) seen by THISDAY showed that IPP/Excravos environs power Coupled with sundry other “Today, NNPC is the sole our books,” he had said. in July. $196.1 million of the budgeted plant, upgrade and rehabilita- issues besetting the national oil importer of petrol. We are In June, he noted that the In the document sub- $536 million was released in tion of Delta IV, upgrade of company is the issue of subsidy importing at market price and NNPC was paying subsidy headlined “Statement of Joint January, $168.5 million was Oben metering, Sapele metering which it has shouldered in last we are selling at N162 per litre on over 103 million litres of Venture (JV) Cost Recovery released in February, while station, Ajaokuta metering sta- few months, sometimes affecting today. Looking at the current petrol daily, including the one and Government Priority in March $128.101 million was tion as well as construction of its obligations and contributions market situation today, the smuggled through the borders Projects for June 2021”, the made available for funding the Egbin 500mmscfd gas facility. to the joint federation account. actual price could have been because of the cheapness of government stressed that the projects. There’s also construction of Earlier in the year, the NNPC anywhere between N211 and Nigeria’s fuel compared with shortfall was between January In addition, $167.2 million the West Niger Delta project, Group Managing Director, around N234 per litre. the price it is sold in neighbour- and June this year. was pumped into the projects Asa north Ohaji project, Excra- Mallam Mele Kyari, opened “The meaning of this is that ing countries. Cost recovery refers to a mechanism through which a party to an oil and gas project AIR TRAVELLERS SPENT N40BN ON COVID-19 TEST IN NINE MONTHS can recover most, if not all, of “We should stop thinking he queried. it will be released, indicated that However, more than a year ment to cushion the impact of the its capital and operating costs that air travel is luxury. It is no In a related development, the the study was almost completed after the audit was announced, COVID-19 pandemic, the report out of a specified percentage longer luxury but necessity. Let much-anticipated release of the if not ready. the report appeared to have been may have been embargoed by us start to look at it that way. maiden interim audit report The COVID-19 fund audit politicized, according to sources. those in authorities. Let us start to look at travel as on the COVID-19 intervention was supposed to assess the Also, over eight months into Also, there are allegations an essential service and not one funds has now been shrouded utilisation of funds released to the appointment of the current that part of the intervention luxury thing. I mean nobody in uncertainty, about 10 months manage the pandemic starting AuGF, Mr. Adolphus Aghughu fund were siphoned by those is flying private jets. after it was supposed to be from the period the Presidential into office by President Muham- who administered it. “We are talking about going ready, according to THISDAY Task Force (PTF) was established madu Buhari, nothing has been Ayine had said his office from point A to Point B, using findings. up till June 30. heard about the COVID-19 audit had the mandate to evaluate a commercial flight. So the In October 2020, the erstwhile Subsequently, the report report. the usage of all public funds COVID-19 test protocol they put Auditor General for the Fed- was supposed to be published THISDAY couldn’t ascertain advanced for specific purposes Group Business Editor in place is good, but I believe eration (AuGF), Mr. Anthony quarterly, meaning that at least whether the report had actually -and to determine whether these Eromosele Abiodun that the cost can come down. Ayine had assured that the audit three editions ought to have been been submitted to the National were deployed for the purposes Comms/e-Business Editor “I think the cost needs to would be released before the released by now. Assembly as earlier indicated meant for. Emma Okonji come down. There is no need end of the month. But he left Ayine had also declined to by the former AuGF. He had also said auditors Aviation Editor putting the cost at over N40, office on October 25 without provide insights into the report, A source who spoke under had a clear responsibility to Chinedu Eze 000. In Abuja it is cheaper. Are unveiling the report. citing administrative protocol of conditions of anonymity said present timely, accurate and we saying the government is The fact that he had promised first submitting its findings to given the controversies surround- reader-friendly reports that speak Asst. Editor, Money Market in the business of making to release the report a week from the National Assembly before ing the utilisation of the funds directly to key issues affecting Nume Ekeghe money from its own people?” the day he publicly announced divulging its content public. released by the federal govern- the public purse. Senior Correspondent Raheem Akingbolu (Advertising) NIGERIA PUMPS ADDITIONAL 45,000BPD CRUDE OIL IN JULY AS FG ACTIVATES TWO MORE OIL RIGS Correspondents On Nigeria’s economic non-oil activities, rising to 55.4, OPEC stated that while there amid faster growth in non-oil Additionally, price pressures James Emejo (Finance) outlook for the month, OPEC up from 53.6 in June. is a glitter of hope that some output, new orders, purchases increased as the Consumer Price Ebere Nwoji (Insurance) stated that its July Purchasing The PMI is an index of the recovery was in the offing, the and higher employment. The Index (CPI) reached 17.8 per Chineme Okafo (Energy) Managers Index (PMI) readings prevailing direction of economic Delta variant of Covid-19 which average reading for 2Q21 also cent y-o-y in July, though it has Emmanuel Addeh (Energy) continued to be above the trends in the manufacturing and has found its way into Nigeria came in at 53.6, which is higher slightly eased from the 17.9 per Reporters threshold level of 50 points service sectors and provides may increase uncertainties as than the 1Q21 average of 51.9. cent y-o-y seen in June. CPI Nosa Alekhuogie (ICT) for the second month in a information about current and the government revs up actions “Although, there is optimism edged up on a monthly basis Peter Uzoho (Energy) row in Nigeria, pointing to future business conditions to to keep it in check. about output prospects going by 1.1 per cent, following 1.0 Ugo Aliogo (Development) an improvement in business company decision makers, “This was the strongest forward, uncertainties remain per cent the previous month,” conditions and a recovery in analysts and investors. reading since January 2020, high due to the Delta variant. the report said. THISDAY ˾
TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 53 BUSINESSWORLD INDUSTRY FX Squeeze: Manufacturers Begin to Look Inward for Survival The illiquidity in the Nigeria’s foreign exchange market is forcing operators in the Nigerian manufacturing sector to look inward for local raw materials to reduce costs and remain afloat, writesDike Onwuamaeze

he Nigerian industrial sector is in dire this concern when he spoke on the, “Effects of These assertions could be supported by the fact MAN further argued that a major challenge with financial straits. The sector is faced with the COVID-19 on the Country’s Manufacturing that Nigerian manufacturing across sub-sectors foreign exchange allocation to the BDC segment “is challenging foreign exchange squeeze. Sector,” at the 2020 Workshop of the Commerce is heavily dependent on imported raw materials that the operators always lacked the ability and the This has constrained growing number and Industry Correspondents Association of and most of their machines and spare parts. will to continuously adhere to set guidelines. Most of them to adjust their operations by Nigeria (CICAN). Therefore, a favourable exchange rate in the times their operations drift into round tripping and looking inward for local supply of raw The president, who was represented at the case of the appreciation of the Naira would no other financial incongruities that negate the overall materials as the dearth of hard currencies needed to occasion by the Director, Corporate Affairs of MAN, doubt present good development and improve objective of creating the BDC foreign exchange market. T Mr. Ambrose Oruche, also said that the scarcity manufacturing production. But this has not been fund their inputs from abroad bite harder. “The end result was always the escalation of the Last week, the Director of Finance, Unilever Nigeria of FX is preventing members of the association the case. “The case,” as he stated it, “has been the premium of foreign exchange in BDC compared to the Plc, Adesola Sotande-Peters, said during an investors from enjoy the full benefits of the Central Bank consistent depreciation in the value of the Naira official window and further depreciation of the naira.” conference call that the Unilever is constrained to of Nigeria’s (CBN) N1 trillion intervention funds as observed in various foreign exchange crises. Also, the OPS were optimistic that the new policy source for dollars above the official market rate due for the real sector. “The foreign exchange crisis in which the Naira direction by the CBN might be beneficiary to the to paucity of forex. Ahmed said: “I want to put on record our value depreciates among convertible currencies economy in the long run, saying no central bank in the Sotande-Peters disclosed that the company bought appreciation to the CBN for its interventions. But such as the US$, strangulates and reduces the world sells FX directly to the BDC except in Nigeria. dollars at between N440 and N450 during the first how far could those interventions go? Many that size of manufacturing in the country. This is They, however, observed that channeling the supply and second quarters of 2021 to import petrochemicals, have been able to access the N1 trillion could because the depreciation in Naira value causes of foreign exchange through the commercial banks which is a major raw material for its products. not buy machines for their production because manufacturing raw materials and machinery without addressing its supply side might unintentionally Now, the Unilever has begun to increase the of foreign exchange scarcity and you know that imports to be more expensive.” trigger a boom in the black market for foreign exchange. percentage of local raw materials in its production in most of our manufacturing depends on imported Moreover, the high-cost of import bills for The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association order to be “forex neutral in the very near future,”The raw materials, spare parts and machineries. the productive inputs would also decrease ((NECA) told THISDAY that banning FX allocation Managing Director of Unilever, Mr. Carl Cruz, said. “We are appealing to the CBN to prioritise manufacturing working capital and feeds into directly to the BDCs and channeling same to the “The company has also planned to transfer its tea allocation of foreign exchange as it did in 2016 manufacturing commodities prices, thereby making commercial banks without addressing the supply business to a newly incorporated firm in October as and 2017 recession. Then, the CBN prioritised the sector less competitive. side of the market would not be enough. part of its global strategy to maximise value for its forex to the manufacturing sector and that created “As was well observed, COVID-19 majorly The Director General of the NECA, Mr. Timothy shareholders. “We will realize cash from the transaction,” growth as production came back to life. Why not triggered the current foreign exchange crisis through Olawale, enjoined the CBN to, “develop strategies Sotande-Peters added. do the same now by prioritising the allocation low international commodity prices, particularly in addressing the exchange market by reviewing the The Unilever is not alone. BUA Cement, another of foreign exchange to the manufacturing sector crude oil prices. The acute shortage of foreign fixed market regime and allow the market to find major manufacturing concern in Nigeria, is also resetting to be able to import needed raw materials and exchange and the erosion in Naira parity has its balance, as fixed market regime is disincentive to its corporate strategies in order to cope with the raging machineries. been nightmarish to manufacturers in the country. inflow of foreign exchange and diaspora remittances. FX squeeze. The Chief Executive Officer of the BUA “I am saying that many of the manufacturing “In the current survey (Q42020 MCCI) most “An exchange management posture that features Cement, Mr. Yusuf Binji, said during the conference firms will not open their shops in January unless CEO of manufacturing companies reported multiple official rates, distorts the market, denies call that the cement maker has resorted to the use something drastic is done by the government inability to adequately source foreign exchange foreign exchange to critical productive sectors and of locally sourced coal and liquefied natural gas in to alleviate the severe challenges hindering the for importation of productive raw materials facilitates illegal arbitrage.” favour of imported coal in order to withstand the manufacturing sector. and machineries that are not available locally,” Speaking in the same vein, the Director General of stress in the foreign exchange market. “There is need for intentional actions from the Ajayi-Kadir said. the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, The Corporate Affairs Manager of BUA Cement, government to create an enabling environment The director general of MAN stated that the Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Mr. Mr. Otega, told THISDAY on Friday that the “BUA that will enable investors to set up plants in directive of the CBN on the BDCs corroborated Ayo Olukanni, told THISDAY that the association Cement’s switch to LNG at our Sokoto plant was Nigeria to manufacture industrial raw materials with its view and may help address the maladroit understood the need for the CBN to take urgent a strategic decision done for efficiency gains and to in a commercial quantity that can compete with (sic) activities of operators in the BDC market. measures to ensure the legitimate use of FX and reduce our foreign exposure on coal imports since the rest of the world,” Ahmed said. “However, much of the efficiency and prevent wholesale and illegal use, but, however, “sees LNG can be sourced locally. “It will be difficult for some manufacturers to effectiveness of the new guidelines will be this directive as a latest in the long list of actions by “We started the conversion of the plant last year comeback after the Christmas holiday. Why? The determined by how determined the CBN and the CBN to ensure absolute control of the Nigerian and it is now completed.The BUA Cement’s Sokoto raw materials are being exhausted and the foreign commercial banks will be to ensure that FX gets foreign exchange market, in terms of who buys, who plant now runs on locally sourced coal and LNG exchange to replenish them and purchase spare to genuine users. sells and for what purpose. rather than the previous mix of local and foreign parts and machineries are not available due to “For instance, with the new policy, manufacturers “But, given the bureaucratic nature of the process of sourced coal and LPFO. LNG will also be used to low inflow of foreign exchange into the economy. will depend solely on the interbank market for their obtaining ‘legitimate’ foreign exchange, the implication power engines used in generating electricity and will foreign exchange needs. We hope the banks will of this directive is likely to be a blossoming black replace LPFO and AGO. MAN PERSPECTIVE provide a seamless process and timely execution of market for foreign exchange with serious implications “Additionally, the use of LNG will also reduce our foreign exchange applications by manufacturers,” on businesses with time-sensitive needs for foreign carbon footprint and conserve the environment in line The MAN in a recent statement titled: the association added. exchange in terms of import of raw materials.” with our commitment to environmental sustainability “MAN’s Perspective on the CBN New Policy An Economist and the immediate past Director and the Paris Accord of which Nigeria is a signatory, on Forex Allocation to BDCs,” that was UNIFIED FX MARKET General of the LCCI, Mr. Muda Yusuf, noted recently that ”he said. signed by its Director General, Mr. Segun the major shortcoming of the Nigerian manufacturing Ajayi-Kadir, extensively discussed how the The question is: what is the way out of the sector is its reliance on import. SURPRISE PACKAGE scarcity of foreign exchange and the continued foreign exchange squeeze afflicting the country’s According to Yusuf, the sector accounted for about depreciation of the Naira have become one manufacturing sector? The answer, according to three per cent of Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings The current foreign exchange crunch might not of the greatest undoing of the country’s Ajayi-Kadir, is contained in the various submissions but constituted 30 per cent of the country’s import have come as a surprise to Nigerian manufacturers. manufacturing sector. of the MAN on the need for the CBN to collapse bill. “This demonstrates that the sector is not properly The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) Ajayi-Kadir observed that traditionally, various foreign exchange windows into a single aligned with the vision of self-reliance being promoted warned in December 2020 that many of its members foreign exchange rate played an important role official foreign window. by the current government. Local value addition is might be forced to close shop in 2021 if the federal in investment determination via its relationship “We believe that a single foreign exchange still very low. The most sustainable segment of the government failed to take urgent steps to address with inflation and interest rates. window will eliminate the excesses of middlemen, manufacturing sector is the food and beverage industries, the challenges militating against the growth of the He noted that variability and large depreciation save the value of the Naira and allow for available and the cement industries where the local content is manufacturing sector. of the exchange rate would obstruct economic foreign exchange to be allocated productively well over 60 per cent. This explains the competitive The President of MAN, Mr. Mansur Ahmed, expressed activities, particularly manufacturing production. using the official banking protocols,” he added. strength of these segments.” 54 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021
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THISDAY BUSINESSWORLD INTERVIEW Kumral: VKS Will Revolutionise Nigeria’s Textile Industry An industrial revolution is underway in Akwa Ibom State, spearheaded by Onur Kumral, a Turkish businessman and investor, who recently won the CEO of the year in Nigeria. Kumral spoke about this and several issues including plans to create more industries in Nigeria, the exportation of made in Nigeria syringe to Germany and how technology has been transferred to Nigerians through his investments. Ugo Aliogo presents the excerpts

During the 2020 Independence Newspaper is in charge of some key Projects. Some of the Award, you became the first none Nigerian projects have been completed like the 21-storey to be honoured as CEO of the year. How did building known as Dakkada Towers. If I am not you arrive at this, what’s the secret? wrong, it is the 6th tallest building in Nigeria. uring the 2020 Independence Again, with the vision of the Governor, if you Newspaper Award, you became the want people to come and invest in your State first none Nigerian to be honoured especially the international entities, you have to as CEO of the year. How did you put in place some critical infrastructures like the arrive at this, what’s the secret? Ibom Air, which is operating in the International It is our organisation that got Airport. Now, we are building a terminal there. They theD award. We got it as a people. I only received need an international standard office space, that it on behalf of the management and staff of our is why they needed to build a 21-storey building organization. First, I really want to thank my which the state government my likely commission team, Akwa Ibom State, stakeholders, the company, on the 23rd of September. We have some critical for their support to let us get the award. It came building projects here like the Dakkada Towers, through hard work. Now, it is time for new frontiers. Airport Terminal, which is finishing very soon. But The secret is that we worked hard. We believe in we had some delay in the airport project because this country. We believe that if we continue like of the Covid-19. Of course, the productions of this, we would get more. materials that we were going to use were not that fast. But all of that has been sorted out so How has Akwa Ibom people benefited from we are speeding up that. your investment in the State? Also, Governor Udom Emmanuel, has made a Akwa Ibom State is one of the largest oil huge investment in coconut planting business. The producing States in Nigeria. But unfortunately, factory is finished and it is very much ready to be in the past, the State could not record adequate commissioned on the 23rd of September which investment. That is what we saw as a point of is going to generate big revenue to the State. It business. So, the things that we created have is a State-owned factory. The raw materials will impacted much on manpower and also trade. be produced in the state. Also, a lot of farmers When you have investments like the ones we will be supplying coconut. So, instead of coconut have here, Jubilee Syringe Manufacturing Limited to be sold to the retail market, you can produce and Kings Flour Mill, you simply create jobs for more and sell to the coconut factory and get paid the people. And a State that is only producing every day. It is a very critical and important factory, oil began producing other materials and a lot of which my company also constructed. Of course, skilled people came and transfer those skills to my construction company built my factories. We the indigenes of Akwa Ibom State. That is why have some jobs in other states too. Construction we believe Akwa Ibom State first of all, has the is an important sector of our investment, but our benefits of employment through new investments. main focus is industrialisation. This is because Second, it has increased revenue because of tax the biggest advantage for us to have a successful benefits, which goes back to the people living story in Nigeria is to produce. If we can produce here. Also, the traders, we see our brand on the more, we believe the success will grow more. street. New trading companies are opened. These kinds of investments will make the State rise like A lot of people in Akwa Ibom State have a trade hub in the future. criticised the Governor on his policies on industrialisation saying that it is not very Talking about the benefits to the State, how effective, and most of the critical areas have not many Akwa Ibom people are working in your been touched. What is your reaction on this? organisation? I am not a politician and I do not like being About 2000 direct employment and over 25,000 dragged into an area I have little or no idea indirect employment is created by our investments. about.. But I can make my comment from the If you compare to farming or construction, the business perspective. Anytime I go to him and benefit of this kind of investment is not seasonal. request any support or propose creating a new It is a lifetime job. So, what we created is bringing Kumral factory or industry, he is always a step ahead lifetime benefit to people who are in touch with of me in policy. So, as a person, considering his our investments. with our partners in Turkey again. Of course, Like in the Senate now, they are deliberating desire to see more investments in his state, I know you know Turkey is a big textile country. on the ban of importation of Syringe into the this cannot be true. But again, since the rate of Kings Flour Mill recently marked two years We want to bring that textile company to country, and this is good because it is what unemployment is high in the country, nothing in Akwa Ibom State but out there, your brand start to produce in Nigeria. We hope to we have been trying to explain to Nigerians is enough for the people. However, I know that is everywhere. How did you achieve this? start the construction before the end of this that you do not joke when it comes to quality under his administration, 15 industries have been Let me give the credit to our guys working in the year. Hopefully, next year, you will see the especially in Medicare. We are happy because created and this is quite commendable. There is company, not to myself. They have done very well opening of a textile company here in Akwa some Senators have decided to support the no success close to what Governor Emmanuel to create that brand. They want to touch everyone’s Ibom State; local designers will design it. It local manufacturers by demanding that has done in terms of industrialization in just over life; giving that quality. The same applies to our will be in the quality of Turkish textile that Teaching Hospitals buy their syringes from 6years. But I can understand people’s criticism. It Syringe. When I saw our Syringe in a pharmacy in is what we want to achieve. Our first target local manufacturers. That is a huge support, is normal, people will always want more. And if Lagos, I was really proud of what we have done. will be to produce 3000 dresses a day, which which I, as one of the local manufacturers, you ask me if my investments can be repeated, When you see the flour like I visited one State will be a standard of 3000 to 5000. That will cannot appreciate enough. That means they I will say, yes. in the North about 4 months ago, I saw on the create about 5000 direct employment and are thinking about people’s lives, same thing street our brand. It makes me proud of what we maybe 23,000 to 25,000 indirect employments. with Kings Flour Mill. Your organization had offered insight into have done. I am sure this is a big success for our This is the first target we have in 2021. If we During the heat of Covid-19 lockdown, the fact that you are planning to produce marketing team, a big success for our production succeed, in 2022, we will want to add some all the Governors gave us some exemptions other medical consumables besides syringes. team in terms of quality. What we have done in more. But we have to go step by step. We including the Federal Government to work We are yet to see that in the market. What Kings Flour Mill is that we combine good price have some principles. We have to succeed and to transport the flour to people’s house. could be stalling its realisation? with good quality. So, that strategy worked out. before we get to the next one. You know, these are very critical decisions Unfortunately, Covid-19 has stopped a lot of things I really want to thank our team. that every country must take. The situation we were planning to finish on time. That was about Are investment policies in the country in Nigeria, if you have the goodwill and last year. But what we are facing now is post Covid-19 You have come very far. Can you lead us favourable to your investments? perform well in step one, you will have 5 circumstances. Post Covid-19 circumstances have into the future of your investments? We have a lot of support. First, we will steps added. That is something I have seen caused a lot of nightmares. Some companies and This is just a start of the story, hopefully. What like to thank the Governor of Akwa Ibom in Nigeria. I have been here 8 years now; I manufacturers that we were going to buy our things we have planned now is that we want to raise State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, because his have never seen anything negative. When I from are not there. During this post Covid-19, to the capacity of our Flour Mill as soon as possible. investment mindset encourages us to bring want to invest on a sizable thing, I always bring materials starting from timber, aluminum to This is because the demand now is much more all these industries and investments to the State. see the support from every stakeholder. steel have been raised to about 70 per cent on dollar than supply. For the syringe, we want to add more Second, we want to thank His Excellency, the When Governor Udom Emmanuel prices because of supply and demand problems. lines to new kind of products not just syringe. We Vice President for attending all our openings started governing the State, he declared the The transportation to Nigeria from Europe is about want to add drip lines to it. However, we want to and to consider all our requests on how to same policies as United Nations declared double now. So, this also affected our budget. Post expand on these two sectors first. Also, with our encourage us as a private sector investment. in investment. Declaring is not a big deal, Covid-19 investment budget and the duration are partners in Turkey, a huge oil and gas group, we We have a lot of support from stakeholders everyone can declare. But he executed it and not the same. Let me give you example, when I have signed a deal on exclusive distribution of in the country, starting from our landlords; that execution gave us a big encouragement. ordered an injection machine from Austria, I was oil lubricants for ECOWAS region. Of course, it village chiefs, paramount rulers, the State That is why I am still thinking about more able to get that in 3 months, maximum 4 months. will first start in Nigeria. Our first target is to start stakeholders, the Governors and even at the investments if possible. If you go now and request from those same trade in oil. But the main target is to see if we can Federal level; people are recognizing what we people, they will give you a minimum of 9 create that same success in what we have done have done. That is a big encouragement for Tell us about your interest in the months. in Kings and Jubilee. If we can create the same us. You know when a number two citizen construction industry distribution lines, we want to start packaging. of a country comes and open your facility I am a civil engineer. Of course, as a civil Also, we are very much interested in textile and says you have to raise your capacity, engineer, you must be in the construction NOTE: Interested readers should continue in business. We have signed our preliminary contracts you cannot say no. It is an encouragement. business. I have a construction company which the online edition on www.thisdaylive.com THISDAY ˾
TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 55 BUSINESSWORLD AGRICULTURE Africa’s Youth Key to Transforming Food Systems, Says AfDB Stories by Gilbert Ekugbe malnutrition by 2030. She said: “Africa’s youth play world that they are not just the by setting up smaller factories agripreneurs in the continent The AfDB’s Vice President a key role in scaling up the future but the present. This is that are closer to farmers. vied for a share of $120,000 in The Africa development Bank for Agriculture, Human and continent’s agricultural produc- a unique opportunity to show Ikenna said: “When the seed funding prizes and a slot (AfDB) has stated that active Social Development, Dr. Beth tion that can transform Africa’s what they bring to the table logistics costs are really high, in the competition’s business participation of the youthful Dunford, stated these during the food systems. On International and they bring a lot to the table you have to pay farmers low development boot camp. The population in Africa is vital in celebration of the International Youth Day, we celebrate Africa’s and this is their time and it is prices for their commodities. finalists also receive mentoring scaling up agricultural produc- Youth Day that was tagged next generation ‘agri-preneurs,’ also an opportunity for them When you are closer by, you and training. tion that would transform “Transforming Food systems: whose innovations in agribusi- to make informed decisions can afford to pay them more,” “The grant was very helpful Africa’s food systems. Youth Innovation for Human ness are helping to feed Africa.” on food choices because food Nzewi said. to operationalise our work – we The AfDB noted that engag- and Planetary Health.” The Country Representative, choices are really important.” The Releaf’s is a Nigeria- started operations in January. ing the youth in the agricultural Dunford added that Africa is The United Nations Population The Chief Executive Officer based smallholder farmer food The publicity was helpful for sector is necessary to revitalize producing a growing number Fund (UNFPA), Ms. Uller of Releaf, Mr. Ikenna Nzewi, procurement company that is our company. Being able to have the failing global agro-food of young entrepreneurs who Mueller, urged youths to engage said that his organization has focused on industrialising food more people hear about…how systems, which also called for are adopting new ideas to bring themselves in agricultural an innovative approach that processing in Africa, which won we are tech-enabled industrial- more investments in rural areas more affordable, quality food and stressed that they have would improve food systems $20,000 in the AfDB’s AgriPitch ists has been really exciting,” and actions to end hunger and from farm to fork,. an opportunity to “show the and to help industrialise Africa competition, where over 600 top Nzewi said. Olam Reaffirms Commitment to Backward Integration Olam Nigeria, a leading agri- According to the statement, business conglomerate, has reaf- since 2014 when IFAD and VCDP firmed its commitment to the rolled out the rice value chain federal government’s backward development project, about N22 integration programme (BIP) billion has been injected into to revitalise the agricultural the rice smallholder initiatives value chain. of Olam in Nigeria’s Middle The Olam said that it has Belt as data by IFAD revealed made strong inputs across the that a larger number of the local agricultural landscape with smallholder rice farmers who valuable impacts on Nigeria’s were engaged by Olam and its gross domestic product (GDP) partners recorded a 79 per cent and the national job creation jump in their incomes. drive. To mitigate the negative impact The report showed Olam of the COVID-19 supply chain has consistently scaled its shocks in 2020 on the supply of investment in various out- rice to Nigerians and the incomes grower programmes, research of farmers, Olam presented an partnerships, seed trials, and estimated N110 million grants to the integration of smallholder select farmers in Benue State. Till farmers into various empower- date, the agribusiness out-grower ment initiatives across different programme has engaged over levels. 35,000 smallholder rice farmers To boost the supply of rice, and is still on boarding new Olam partnered the Interna- farmers to accelerate the supply L-R: General Manager, Plateau State Tourism Corporation, Mrs. Salome Bidda; Sales Director, Nigerian Breweries Plc, tional Fund for Agricultural of rice. UcheUnigwe and Commissioner for Tourism,Culture and Hospitality Plateau State,Tamwakat Weli at the launch of the Development (IFAD) and the Similarly, in the wheat new Tiger Bar in Jos… recently federal government of Nigeria value chain, the collaborative in the value chain development efforts between Olam, Flour programme (VCDP), a backward Millers Association of Nigeria integration framework to train (FMAN) and Federal Ministry smallholder rice farmers, sup- of Agriculture and Rural Devel- ‘Invest in Agricultural Sector to plies input to the farmers and opment (FMARD) are yielding provides guaranteed buyback. appreciable results. Attract Active Youth Participation’ The Chief Executive Officer, He also urged the federal He said government needs have started paying attention New Rice Scheme to Engage the Global Macron Pace Lim- government and the stakehold- to address the concerns of to agriculture and creating the ited, Mr. John Oriazowan, has ers in the agro-allied business investors in the sector to enabling environment, I see 1000 Women, Youths urged the federal government to invest in the sector in order encourage more Nigerians that this sector employing about Over 1000 women and youths very high yielding seedlings,” to prioritise investment in the to boost food production post are interested in agriculture. 70 per cent of our country’s are expected to benefit from Adesina said. nation’s agricultural sector COVID-19. “The agricultural business in labour force. a new rice initiative (wet He added that this variety in order to win the active The CEO added that agro Nigeria is yet to be tapped. If it We have had several chal- season) aimed at boosting of rice seedlings will be tested participation of youths into allied business is very profit- is well tapped, the agricultural lenges like the increasing rice production in the country to determine the ruggedness, the sector. able and is yet to be fully sector has the capability to pressures from herdsmen post pandemic. virility and flood resistance of Oriazowan said that youths tapped by several stakeholders employ about 70 per cent of attack farmers, kidnapping, The Project Coordinator of the variety that was developed are not motivated enough to in Nigeria, saying that the the Nigerian labour force. As bad roads, poor governmental Fevick Resources, Mr. Samuel to see how the new variant of venture into agriculture due to sector has great potentials you can see, youth no longer responses, poor implementation Oluwafemi Adeshina, said by rice will survive in submerged the poor state of infrastructure, for investors. wants to stay in the rural areas of governmental policies, high the time the rice programme areas during serious flood and poor storage facilities and bad Oriazowan noted that the because of lack of infrastruc- cost of farming, high cost of kicks off, it would empower ozone depletion. road network. agricultural sector has the ture, poor storage facilities of processing equipment, lack of clusters of women and youths According to him, the Taraba He said that this has re- capability to employ about 70 harvested crops and bad roads power supply, access to loans agripreneur farming together State Government is hosting sulted in massive rural-urban per cent of the Nigerian labour to transporting of harvested with collateral and illiteracy of on a contiguous arable farm- the pilot programme and the migration of youths as they force if the government and farm produce. most farmers which makes it land to produce high quality farmers under Fevick Resources’ no longer see any hope in private sector invest massively “If the government can hard to implement modern and quantity of rice paddy supervision would have three subsistence farming. in the sector. continue with the way they farming methods,” he said. for processing during this layers of credit open to them. year’s wet season farming “There is the direct fertilizer in Nigeria. aspect, which will give the farm- Adeshina, who addressed a ers NPK and urea (fertilizer), BATNF Plans N2bn Investment to Boost Small Holder Farming press briefing in Abuja recently, there is also the seeds variety Faro stated that the new wet season 66 and 67, the third part of the The British American Tobacco Awards in Lagos recently, rural smallholder farmers and is why we are being recognized rice farming project would link credit to the farmers is the crop Nigeria Foundation (BATNF) said the BATN foundation empowering youths in agri- here today. We have also farmers to new technologies protection product (CPP) which has announced plans to invest has chosen passion for sup- culture and other enterprises. established the #WealthisHere and high yield seedlings. is the aspect that covers labour over N2 billion to support porting and empowering rural “The BAT Nigeria Founda- initiative, a campaign developed He noted that the new rice and services as this will cover small holder farmers across smallholder farmers in the tion is very passionate about to reinvigorate the entrepre- planting initiative would create land preparation, harvesting, the 36 States in the federation. country to contribute to food young people and that is why neurial spirit in the younger employment and entrepreneurial threshing and aggregation,” The move, according to productivity in order to realize one of our pillars of engage- generation through sustainable opportunities for 1,000 women he said. the foundation, is aimed at food security via sustainable ment is formed around youth agriculture,” he said. and youths in the pilot phase. He further stated that the improving the lives of small- commercial agriculture. employment and empowerment Also speaking, the General “They will produce high project would create strong holder farmers and enabling While reacting to the two with particular emphasis on Manager of the BATNF, Ms. quality and quantity of paddy and effective linkages to them to move from subsistence awards given to the BATNF, agriculture and the develop- Ololade Johnson, expressed rice for processors to get high quality agro-inputs and ser- to commercial agriculture to the foundation’s technical com- ment of its value chains. As a how passionate the BAT milling outturned which will vices including mechanisation, boost food production in the mittee described the gesture Foundation, we reached out Nigeria foundation is about increase the profit margin of credits, insurance, technology, country. as a worthy recognition of to young people through the rural farming, noting that its the women and youths. We information, and market for A member of the founda- the diligent efforts of the BAT provision of seed grants to scale customers are rural farmers can derive six to seven metric rural farmers to improve their tion’s technical committee, Mr. Nigeria foundation team over up their agribusinesses whilst with core mandate to help tonnes of rice per hectare by livelihoods and build sustain- Fatai Afolabi, on the sidelines the years in promoting good also providing mentorship and small holder farmers earn a introducing new varieties of able agriculture. of the West Africa Innovation agricultural practices among internship opportunities, which sustainable income. 56 THISDAY ˾
TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 BUSINESSWORLD PERSPECTIVE Celebrating Jedy-Agba’s Footprints in the Power Sector

Inyali Peter enhanced its capacity to train more Nigerians of Cross River State, Grid Extension project in in different electricity value chain including Malumfashi local government, Katsina, and 30KWP ddressing Nigeria’s epileptic power sup- generation, transmission, installation and solar mini-grid at Bambami also in Katsina. ply was one of the cardinal campaign maintenance of electricity infrastructure. More The REA under his supervision has also promises of President Muhammadu than five thousand (5,000) young Nigerians completed Grid Extension Electrification Project in Buhari and the All Progressives have been trained, equipped and empowerred Ifesowapo in Ajilola, Ede South local government, Congress, (APC), during the 2015 since he assumed office. Osun state, 100KWP solar hybrid mini-grid at Olooji Aand 2019 electioneering processes. Similarly, for NEMSA, the agency responsible community in Ijebu East, Ogun State, 100KWP Past administrations had expended so much for maintaining technical standards in the solar hybrid mini-grid at Budo-are community, resources in the power sector but with little results. power sector, he has supervised the completion Ifesiwaju local government, Oyo State, provision Despite the county’s existing power plants having of its state-of-the-art Meter Testing Station. The of 65KWP solar hybrid mini-grid system in 250 the potential to generate up to 12,522 megawatts ultramodern facility is the first ever building bed cottages hospital in Ukpogo community in of electricity, the highest the highest it has attained started and completed by the agency since Okene local government, Kogi State. was the 5,552.8MW announced on the 6th of its establishment eight years ago. Under his watch, the agency has also completed January, 2021 by the Transmission Company of Located in Enugu State to cover the entire a 334KWP isolated PV solar hybrid mini-grid Nigeria (TCN). Southern Nigeria, the station amongst other in Shimankar Community in Shendam local Besides, the country’s overdependent on thermal things, is handling all metering services in government area in Plateau State, provided and hydro power sources that other countries the region as well as testing and certification and installed 5.4KPW solar hybrid mini-grid at are walking away from is a major part of the Jedy-Agba of energy meters. Plans are on ground to Adavi-Eba, Adayi local government, Kogi State, issues facing the power sector. The decision of build similar facility in Northern Nigeria to 40KW solar mini-grid at Goto Sarki community in Paikoro local government, Niger State, 85KW the Buhari’s administration to invest massively in of Nigeria (TCN) and Nigerian Electricity reduce the amount of money expended in renewable energy development is not however, rent in some of its rented facilities. isolated solar mini-grid at Dakitti community in Liability Management Company (NELMCO), Akko local government area of Gombe State as unconnected to this. Dr. Agba on the other hand, was saddled Nevertheless, where the Minister has shone During his first tenure, the President merged the most is in the Rural Electrification Agency. well as provision of 30KW solar mini-grid at with the responsibility of executing his Mbela Town, Yulde, Gubudo, Mayo Belwa in the Ministry of Power with that of Works and mandatory work as Minister through the To his credit, the agency has completed and Housing. But in his second term, he decided to commissioned not fewer than nineteen (19) Adamawa State. Nigerian Electricity Management Services There are also several other solar power streets unbundle the Ministries, with the Ministry of Agency (NEMSA), Rural Electrification Agency major projects since he assumed office. Several Power assuming a pivotal role in the process other projects have been completed and lights projects across the country that have been (REA) and National Power Training Institute completed under his watch in the past two years of driving the nation’s economy in line with the (NAPTIN). awaiting commissioning while some are at administration’s diversification agenda. different stages of completion. that are not included in this list. Two years down the line, the two Ministers Indeed, when President Buhari assured the To underscore the importance his administration have left no stone unturned in ensuring These projects include, 100KWP Isolated attached to solving Nigeria’s power problem, the hybrid mini-grid at Eka-Awoke community in United Nations General Assembly during its 74th improved electricity supply in Nigeria. For session held in New York on September 24, 2019 President deployed two Ministers; Engr. Saleh instance, the Minister of State alone has Ikwo local government, Ebonyi State, 8.25MW Mamman as Honourable Minister of Power, Solar hybrid mini-grid at Federal University of that Nigeria is working to have at least 30 per supervised the completion of twenty (20) cent of its total electricity supply from renewable and Dr. Goddy Jedy Agba, OFR, as Honourable major projects within this period, all geared Agriculture, Makurdi, two 7.5KWP Mini-grid Minister of State, Power. at Nnewi and a 1.12MW Solar mini-grid at sources by 2030, he knew he had a capable hand towards solving the shortage of electricity in Jedy-Agba to steer the country’s renewable For effective and efficient service delivery and supply in the country. Abubakar Tafewa Balewa University, Bauchi. harmonious working relationship, the President, Others are, 100KWP solar hybrid mini-grid energy revolution. These projects are spread across the six Nigeria may not have completely overcome through the Secretary to the Government of the geopolitical zones of the country. There’s no at Adebayo Community, Ovia South local Federation, Boss Mustapha shared responsibilities in government, Edo State, 1.35MW at Federal the challenge of inadequate power supply, but single geopolitical zone in Nigeria today that with the guts, passion, commitment shown, as the power Ministry between the two Ministers, with Jedy-Agba has not completed, commissioned University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, each having equal and independent supervisory Delta State, 60KWP solar hybrid mini-grid evidenced in the achievements of Jedy-Agba as and handed over economically viable electric- Minister and the overall performance of the Buhari’s role over agencies under them. ity projects to benefitting communities and at Obudu Ranch Resort in Obanliku Local While Mamman was asked to suprivise the government area of Cross River State, 60KWP government in the power sector, the country is institutions. undoubtedly moving stoutly in the right path. activities of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory In NAPTIN, for example, he has ensured solar hybrid mini-grid at Okangha-Mpkansi Commission (NERC), Transmission Company drastic reformation in the agency which has community in Ikom local government area t
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"CVKB NCC, NESG in Fresh Move to Enhance Telecoms’ Impact on Nigeria’s Economy Emma Okonji Business Environment Round reflect new trends, especially economic development of the to quality of service (QoS) in in driving telecommunications Table (NASSBER), a policy unit in a post-pandemic world. country.” telecom industry. sector growth through efficient The Nigerian Communications at NESG, led by Nnanna Ude The two bodies also considered He stated further that, by The impact of these challenges and result-oriented regulations, Commission (NCC) and the and a member of the technical synergy in the area of Research virtue of Section 70 of the such as multiple taxation and noting that the impact of the Nigeria Economic Summit committee of NASSBER, Yemi and Development (R&D), while NCA 2003, the “commission has regulations, fibre cuts, vandalism, regulations are evident in indus- Group (NESG) are considering Keri. the NESG expressed its desire developed various regulations high cost of Right of Way (RoW), try performance indicators, which possible areas of increasing The focus of the visit was to to have the commission feature and issued guidelines that have theft of telecoms facilities and have shown upward trajectory collaboration to enhance the buttress the need for stakeholder prominently in the forthcoming helped in addressing critical is- the need for the passage of the over the recent years. impact and contributions of collaboration and engagement Nigeria Economic Summit (NES), sues pertaining to its regulatory Critical National Infrastructure “The NCC is key to the telecommunications sector between the commission and an annual summit organised by activities”. (CNI) Bill into law, were also digital transformation agenda on Nigeria’s socio-economic other stakeholders in order to the NESG, scheduled to hold in Other senior management discussed. of the government and we development. conduct an impact assessment October this year. staff of the commission, took Speaking earlier on behalf can see the footprints of the NESG and NCC discussed and gap analysis of the Nigerian While receiving the delega- turns to talk about the activities of the Chief Executive Officer readiness of the country on this during a recent courtesy Communications Act (NCA) 2003, tion on behalf the Executive of the NCC in implementing of NESG, Laoye Jaiyeola; Ude that journey, in terms of the visit to NCC, by a delegation which will lead to improvement Vice Chairman of NCC, Prof. its regulatory mandate for the acknowledged the critical role level of broadband penetration, of the National Assembly of the legal instrument and Umar Garba Danbatta, the benefit of the country. NCC is playing in the provision internet subscription, teledensity Director, Public Affairs, NCC, The Director, Licensing and of essential digital support for and other critical indicators,” Dr. Ikechukwu Adinde, stated Authorisation, Muhammed the Nigerian economy. He noted Ude said. that the meeting was a welcome Babajika, spoke on the licens- that, in 20 years of telecoms Adinde expressed the Ascon Oil Company development, as it aligns with ing regime of the commission liberalisation, the commission has commission’s happiness in the telecom regulator’s strategic and its impact on innovation in been contributing significantly partnering with NESG and partnership and collaboration the economy, while the Direc- to the country’s Gross Domestic NASSBER, noting that such Re-claims Petrol Filling objectives. tor, Technical Standards and Product (GDP). partnership will further en- Adinde said: “NCA 2003 is Network Integrity, Bako Wakil, Ude explained that the visit hance telecoms contributions a robust regulatory instrument, spoke about NCC’s regulatory was part of the efforts of the to Nigeria’s socio-economic Station in Lagos which has given the NCC the efforts and collaborations with NESG to strengthen collaboration growth. He added that all mandate to regulate the telecom various stakeholders, such as the with key institutions of govern- the issues discussed would be Darasimi Adebisi symbolizes our reinvigorated sector effectively, as seen in Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) ment such as the NCC. He ex- articulated in a memorandum strategy for the Nigerian Energy, the contribution to the overall towards addressing challenges tolled the role of the commission and submitted for consideration. Quest Oil & Engineering Oil & Gas market. Ascon Oil Services Limited, owners of Company Limited will continue Ascon Oil Company Limited to carry out its lawful services has announced that it has re- in line with the provisions of Contest to Spotlight Upcoming, claimed its petrol filling station the law.” located at Block 36 Admiralty The company stated further Way, Lekki Phase 1. that: “As part of its plans to Professional Talents in Photography The company in a statement position the downstream sector said the action is in line with the in the global energy transition Gilbert Ekugbe and are not professionals nor valued photographer, you can top competition. earlier Order of Justice Liman map, Ascon Oil Company Lim- have professional equipment take your career or passion “The prizes would be of the Federal High Court in ited plans to provide alternative Organizers of the second edition and the professional category to the next level with cash financed by the headline Lagos setting aside his previous sources of fuel to its customers of the lifestyle competition, Af- for people that have a skill in prizes and gifts to be won sponsor Investment One Order restraining Ascon from as it plans to deploy autogas rican photography organisation photography. as well as acknowledgement Financial Services and other interfering with the activities of infrastructures across its service (AFPHOR), Investment One “The competition can help of the African photography sponsors. Investment One’s the purported Receiver, Olawale stations strategically located Financial services Limited, has the participants gain greater competition 2021. involvement in the competi- Akoni SAN who saw to the across the country. announced plans to organize a exposure and even achieve “For the competition, selec- tion is based on their interest illegal possession of the Property “This is not only a giant contest to spotlight upcoming international recognition as it is tion of winners would be in the creative industry, espe- by Rain Oil Limited. stride, but further gives credence and professional talents in a continental competition. It can determined by likes from the cially in the area of art and The Chief Executive Officer, to the company’s commitment the photography industry in give enthusiastic photographers general public and a panel photography, as it is one of Ascon Oil Company Limited, and investment in innovative Nigeria. their ‘big break’ to make it in of Judges, which consists of their corporate responsibilities Mr. Goke Dele in the statement clean energy technology in the The organizers in a statement the industry with exciting prizes professional photographers to identify creative people said: “we are setting the pace downstream sector. This, the explained that the competition, and merit awards,” they stated. and lovers of art. The first in the society and empower in the downstream sector as a company believes, will lead to with the theme, “The Beauty Asked what makes the place winners in the amateur them. Other sponsors of the major player with innovative employment generation, and the of Africa,” would feature two event a must to participate and professional categories competition are the Ziing energy solutions. creation of cleaner fuel sources categories of participants; the in, the organisers noted: “If will be awarded with cash app, Investment One Pension “Our current asset opti- which will reduce the cost of amateur category for people that you have always dreamed of prizes while there would be Managers and Orange One mization across the country energy for Nigerians.” have interest in taking pictures being a more recognised and consolation prizes for other Finance, “it stated. TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021
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THISDAY 57 BUSINESSWORLD NEWS ECOWAS Fixes January 2025 Deadline for Adoption of Cleaner Fuels Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja be provided for refineries within over the next two decades. for digital monitoring across the country to ensure that the Tilahun, stated that effective the region to remain operational He called for clarity from the value chain from offshore to right quantity of products regulatory support has not yet Member countries of the while they introduce measures the regulators, individuals retail, providing end-to-end vis- is consistently dispensed to been fully addressed in Ethiopia, Economic Community of West to comply with the directive,” and organisations to which ibility of operations and reducing consumers. thereby leaving the downstream African States (ECOWAS) have he noted. the regulations apply and the the tendency for companies to “The NPA has commenced sector vulnerable to unfair trade set a January 2025 deadline for He stressed that the age limit consequences for non-compliance, cut corners or make abnormal installation of Automatic Tank practices and multiple supply the adoption cleaner fuels and for importing vehicles into the explaining how a strong regulator profits. Gauging System (ATGS) at and distribution challenges. vehicles in the region to reduce ECOWAS region has been set at can use data-driven decisions to Welbeck stated that in Ghana, all retail outlets to enhance He added that the different air pollution across the cities. five years for light-duty vehicles, effectively drive key reforms in which currently has the lowest monitoring of volumes supplied regulatory activities of the Speaking at the African Refin- two-wheel motor vehicles, the area of cleaner fuel imports. sulphur content specifications (50 as well as improve the control sector have been handled ers & Distributors Association tricycles and quadricycles and Director, Pricing, Planning ppm) for fuels in the ECOWAS of illegal fuel activities such as by different government (ARDA) 2021 Virtual Workshop 10 years for heavy-duty vehicles, & Research at the National sub-region, the Ghana Standards illegal imports, dumping and ministries without adequate Series, ECOWAS Director of adding that a period of 10 years Petroleum Authority (NPA) in Authority (GSA) periodically diversion,” she noted. coordination or single-point Energy, Bayaornibe Dabire, would be granted to countries Ghana, Alpha Welbeck, in her calibrates the fuel dispensers Chief Executive Officer, accountability for responsibili- disclosed that the range of that have not yet adopted the intervention, called for the need of the 4,300 retail outlets in National Oil Ethiopia, Tadesse ties clearly defined. fuel specifications in the sub- age limits to gradually comply. region currently spans 50 Parts With a population of nearly Per Million (PPM) sulphur in 400 million, West Africa has one some countries to 10, 000 ppm of the fastest growing car fleets in others. in the world, while majority of He said the need for har- vehicle imports into the region monisation led to the issuance are second-hand and the fuel of ECOWAS directive C/ used is generally of poor quality. DIR.2/09/20 last year, which For instance, in 2016 Onitsha, covers exhaust gas and particulate Nigeria, was designated by the emission limits for two-wheeled, World Health Organisation light and heavy vehicles. (WHO) as the most polluted Dabire stressed that any city in the world in terms of improvement in fuel specifica- fine particles, which are very tions without alignment with harmful to the lungs. vehicle emission limits would Currently, only about 20 per not have the desired effect, cent of the region’s fuel needs emphasising that member states are refined locally, while 80 per should prohibit the import of cent is imported. petrol and diesel which do not In his comments, ARDA’s comply with the harmonised fuel Executive Secretary and Chief specifications. Executive Officer, Anibor Kragha, “From January 1, 2025, only explained that effective regulatory gasoline and diesel that meet the frameworks remain critical for harmonised fuel specifications development of the energy sector, can be marketed within the especially as Africa’s population is ECOWAS region. A waiver would projected to increase significantly Hull Blyth Begins Rail Haulage of Containers COURTESY VISIT… L-R: Captain of Abeokuta Golf Club, Mr. Kola Adeneye; Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and Group Executive, Retail Banking (Lagos & West), First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Mr. Tunde to Apapa Port Owolabi during a courtesy visit to Obasanjo in Abeokuta ahead of the FirstBank sponsored 5th Olusegun Obasanjo Open Golf Championship organised by Abeokuta Golf Club... recently Nigeria’s foremost shipping and as it will be deemed to have cargo logistics services provider, been returned to the shipping Hull Blyth, has opened a rail company. hub at Wasimi, Ewekoro Local “The rail hub brings several Government Area of Ogun benefits to the trading commu- DPR Insists on Training for Downstream Operators to Cut Mishaps State, for use by importers and nity and the Nigerian economy. Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja was prone to many hazards, the initiative covers depots, petrol trainees,” Osu stated. exporters. In addition to reducing the noting that majority of accidents stations, product pipelines, Lique- He noted that the programme The Wasimi Rail Hub, which cost associated with trucking The Department of Petroleum in the downstream sector were fied Petroleum Gas (LPG) plants requires robust accreditation is the first of its kind in Nigeria, containers by half, it will also Resources (DPR) has reiterated due to human errors. as well as petroleum trucks. of training centres for existing will allow shippers receive import save importers and their agents that the Minimum Industry “This has led to loss of human “The programme, which was workers and new entrants into containers from Apapa port, the money they spend on pay- Safety Training for Downstream lives, destruction of properties launched following extensive the downstream sector, where and also send export/empty ment of demurrage. Operations (MISTDO) remains and grave environmental pol- collaborations with relevant successful trainees are issued a containers to the port by rail. “This is because we have compulsory for all players in lution. Consequently, this puts stakeholders, including the In- certificate valid for two years The Managing Director agreed with shipping lines that part of the petroleum the economy under immense dependent Petroleum Marketers at a negotiated cost between of Hull Blyth, Mr. Christian that containers delivered to industry. pressure because it is affected Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), the trainees and the certified Holm, who disclosed this in the Wasimi Rail Hub from The DPR noted that the pro- negatively by such impacts,” was a direct response to upsurge training centres. Lagos said the new rail hub any part of the country will gramme introduced to safeguard he stated. in downstream sector accidents While explaining that the DPR will save shippers the hassles be deemed to returned to the operations in the downstream The DPR at the time projected and operational mishaps leading does not charge the trainees and high cost of transporting shipping company and will not sector of the Nigerian oil and that MISTDO will be a prereq- to high casualty and fatality for the MISTDO programme, their containers to/from the attract demurrage,” he said. gas industry, remains critical to uisite for the renewal of all new rates averaging 54 fatalities he pointed out that to further port by road. He said rail hub has com- protecting those who operate downstream licences nationwide yearly within a five-year period. ensure transparency of operations “We started this project menced full operation, as the within the space. from 1st January, 2021. “The objectives of MISTDO between the training centres and because we are concerned first train of both export and The oil and gas industry regu- Reiterating the importance amongst others, include to trainees, DPR made it mandatory about the pains shippers go empty containers has been lator launched the programme and need to adhere strictly to enforce and standardise basic for trainers to publish their cost through in moving their boxes successfully delivered to APM last year, with the Director, Mr. the directive in a statement on training for downstream work- of providing training on the in and out of the Apapa port Terminals at the Apapa port Auwalu Sarki, saying that the Sunday, Head of Public Affairs, ers and to provide industry MISTDO portal managed by in Lagos due to the congestion “within only hours of transit industry being a volatile sector DPR , Paul Osu, explained that reference for prospective the regulator. on the port access road. from Wasimi” “We are happy to inform Holm said the Wasimi Rail all shippers in the southwest Hub will save importers, export- and other parts of Nigeria ers and agents as much as 50 CITITRUST Wins Global Banking, Finance Awards that they no longer have to go per cent of logistics costs, since CITITRUST Holdings Plc, a long-term value creation across awards on behalf of the firm, deliver for its customers and through the pains of trucking it is much cheaper to move market leader in investment different sectors of the economy expressed his delight on the doesn’t rest on its successes. We their containers to Apapa. Just goods by train. holding across Africa, has won in a way that is sustainable for recognition from Global Banking look forward to seeing further send it to us at Wasimi and we He said the Wasimi Rail a trio of honours courtesy of the over a decade. & Finance Awards. industry-leading solutions from will gladly move it to Apapa Hub is the precursor to a Dry prestigious awarding body Global “In addition, CITITRUST He said, “CITITRUST seeks CITITRUST Holdings Plc in the port by rail. Port, which is already under Banking & Finance Awards. holds significant investments opportunities to build and years to come.” “Importers should also simply construction. When completed, Global Banking & Finance that cut across commercial invest in the majority and/or Global Banking & Finance hand over their consignments the Dry Port, will have capacity Awards bestowed the honours banking, wealth management, significant minority stakes in Review’s prestigious award to us at Apapa port and we to handle up to 7,000 TEUs of Best Financial Services Group investment banking, pension fund leading African companies and honours the best banks and will move it by rail to Wasimi and will be fully connected to Nigeria 2021, Decade of Excel- administration, and insurance believes that Africa will continue financial organizations around from where it will be moved Apapa port by rail. lence Holding Group Nigeria services with operations in 13 to offer excellent investment the globe. Since 2011, the Global to final destination. It is time A beneficiary of the first train 2021, and Most Innovative African countries, “the organisers opportunities in the future.” Banking & Finance Awards shippers took advantage of service, Ms Dede Yebovi of Holding Group Nigeria 2021 stated. He further stated that, for over has honoured companies that the rail services revived by Quinet International expressed onto CITITRUST Holdings Plc The firm was also recorgnise a decade, CITITRUST has striven stand out in particular areas of the Federal Government and satisfaction with the ease of for its incredible work. for its strong corporate gover- to provide the comprehensive expertise in the banking and relieved themselves of the stress moving export from Ogun State Three key areas were high- nance, innovative financial products and services individuals finance industry, recognizing and high cost associated with by rail to Apapa port. She was lighted by Global Banking & solutions, first-class investment and companies need. the innovation, achievement, road haulage, ”Holm said. particularly impressed that the Finance Awards. A diverse services, and highly skilled Also speaking, Editor, strategy, progressive and He said that empty containers service saved her company cost financial services holding group, financial advisors. Global Banking & Finance influential transformations that returned to the Wasimi Rail and provided faster transit when CITITRUST was recognized for The Group Chief Executive, Review, Wanda Rich said. transpire every year within the Hub will not attract demurrage, compared to road haulage. demonstrating strategic agility in Yemi Adefisan, who received the “The company continues to global finance community. 58 THISDAY ˾


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Group Features Editor: Chiemelie Ezeobi FEATURES Email [email protected], 07010510430 The Umpteenth Ban on Okada in Lagos Chiemelie Ezeobi, Sunday Ehigiator and Oluwabunmi Fache report that for the umpteenth time, the Lagos State Police Command, recently kicked off full enforcement of the restriction order against commercial motorcycles in six local governments ares, nine LCDAs, 10 highways, 40 bridges and flyovers, as part of efforts to return sanity to the state

The menace of commercial motorcycles cannot be overemphasised Photo: Google

agos wears the toga of a mega city but is istration. Barely three months after his It also prohibits the carrying of more Law 2018. burdened by high cost of living, traffic elections, he had asked commercial than one passenger, carrying of children snarls, bad roads, epileptic power supply, motorcyclists to desist from operating and pregnant women and also operation Alternative and chaos on the roads. The latter is on the 475 restricted routes across the of okada beyond 8pm in Victoria Island, Prior to this ban, the Lagos State government often caused by reckless commercial state in compliance with Lagos Road IKoyi and Ikeja and 10pm in other areas in May unveiled plans to phase out Okada and motorcycleL riders popularly known as Okada. Traffic Law, 2012. The then permanent of the state. tricycles with Last Mile Buses. Governor Babajide The advent of okada as an alternative means secretary, Ministry of Transportation, It also strongly warns against riding Sanwo-Olu had noted that the government has of transportation was caused by the perennial had made this disclosure at a news of motorcycles on the kerb, median or seen the danger motorcycles and tricycles pose traffic snarls that has bedeviled the state since conference in Alausa. road setbacks or in a direction prohibited on Lagos roads, thus the plans to eradicate them. its creation more than five decades ago. After consultations with stakeholders, by law and expects respect for all traffic According to him, at the inception of his For any society to thrive, transportation is the State Security Council, in compli- laws and regulations. administration, the first priority in the develop- one of the key factors because it is pivotal to the ance with the extant Transport Sector mental plan as encapsulated in the T.H.E.M.E.S economy. The reason is simple- the efficiency Reform Law 2018, decided to commence Recent Ban agenda is anchored on tackling the challenge at which people, goods and services can move enforcement of the law which bans the Given the continued menace okada of transportation, which has made imperative from one point to the other largely determines operation of Okada and Keke in six LGAs and tricycles pose, the Lagos State the need to develop a functional and effective the quality of life of the society. and nine Local Council Development Commissioner of Police, CP Hakeem intermodal transportation system in Lagos. For Lagos, which boasts as the largest Areas (LCDAs). Odumosu, recently ordered officers and The First and Last Mile Bus project is therefore metropolis in Nigeria and the second most tactical commanders of the command to an integral part of the resolve to bequeath a populous city in Africa, as well as currently What the Law Stipulates immediately embark on full enforcement befitting transportation system that is reflective estimated to be the 7th fastest growing city The various laws regulating their of restriction order of the state government. of the mega city status of the state. The scheme, in the world with its population of 22 million operations as contained in Section 3 While reacting to what he described which is a key part of the Bus Reform Initiative, people, the perennial traffic has become a huge of the Road Traffic Law stipulates that as an “act of lawlessness, recklessness is a modular concept to enhance both motorised challenge to the state traffic management and they desist from plying any of the 475 and impunity being exhibited by some and non motorised (including walkways) transportation system. roads, including highways and bridges road users especially Okada riders” in transportation of commuters to/from their With the entrance of okada, a name gotten restricted for their operations out of the some parts of the state, the police boss origin and final destination. from the defunct Okada Airways, these breed of 9, 200 roads in the state. The Law on particularly ordered officers and men Considered as community based routes okada riders have in no small measure contributed motorcycle operation in the state is of the command to go after road users within a distance of 3-4 kilometers, which are to the chaos in the mega city, also touted to sacrosanct. including Okada operators who drive currently served by tricycles and motorcycles, be the commercial nerve centre of the nation. Thus, anyone found to have violated against the traffic and ply BRT corridors. bus users will not pay cash for transportation Given the chaos and its resultant negative the Law will be dealt with in accordance He emphasised that the violators should fare, but debit cards will be made available effects like accidents and deaths, the state with the Road Traffic Law, RTL 2012 be arrested and prosecuted accordingly. for all. The debit card is known as Cairo and government resorted to reinforce the ban by Section 3 Subsection 5 which stipulates While also appealing to residents of the the bus routes, Lagos Island, Agege, Surelere, former administrations, which prohibits okada that “Any person who fails to comply state to desist from violating traffic laws, Iyana Ipaja, Ikorudu just to mention but few. riders from six local governments, nine LCDAs, with any of the provisions of this Section he said the command will implement To kick off the scheme, the state govern- 10 highways, 40 bridges and flyovers. Also commits an offence and shall be liable on the full enforcement of the Lagos State ment facilitated the provision of 2000 buses, affected by the ban were commercial tricycle conviction to: imprisonment for a term Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018 in collaboration with the private sector, to be riders popularly known as Keke. of three (3) years or render community and other extant laws of Lagos State. operational in phases over the next six months. Also, the rate of crimes aided by Okada and service in accordance with the provisions Already some are on the roads. Keke keeps rising as they are used as getaway of Section 347 of the Administration of Partial Enforcement means by criminals, hence the recent ban. Criminal Justice Law of Lagos State and Kicking off enforcement, the Lagos Potential Cash Cow for Police have his vehicle forfeited to the state. State Environmental and Special Offences Meanwhile, Lagosians and operators alike Old Order Contained in Section 3 and Regulation Unit (Taskforce) last week impounded 57 have bemoaned the fact that the ban will become It was in 2010 during the administration of 16 Sub-Section 4, 5 and 6 of the 2012 motorcycles from riders plying prohibited the proverbial cash cow for the police. This Governor Babatunde Fashola, that the govern- Road Traffic Law, the guidelines also routes in Costain, CMS and Lekki. Led was witnessed in the past when such bans ment came all out guns blazing in a bid to ban stipulates the wearing of standard crash by the Taskforce Chairman, CSP Shola enriched the pockets of the police, who arrest commercial motorcycles. Given the fight they helmet with full protection for both rider Jejeloye said the agency would intensify and release after being paid. had at their hands in a bid to enforce the ban, and passenger. its enforcement of Lagos State Traffic On this, CP Odumosu warned the police the government went to the drawing board and operatives and teams who are detailed for the thus the 2012 Lagos Traffic Law was borne. enforcement order operation to act within the This law saw to the prohibition of driving ambit of the law and discharge their duties motorcycles on 475 out of 9100 roads in that devoid of extortion or corrupt practices in state. The government of the day had said the Such gross violation with impunity must stop...the any form “as such will not be tolerated by need for the ban was because from the statistics the command". compiled in government hospitals, an average command will implement the full enforcement of For now, Lagos residents wait with bated of 16 okada-related deaths were recorded per breathe to know if the recent ban would go the month and 646 okada-accident related injuries the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of way others did. But at the moment, commercial per month. motorcycles and tricycles are still having a field Then came Akinwunmi Ambode’s admin- 2018 and other extant laws of Lagos State day across Lagos. THISDAY ˾



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ͰͮͰͯ 59 FEATURES Yemisi Edun and FCMB's Gender Equality Triumph Adewale Okoya

he recent appointment of Mrs Yemisi Edun as the Managing Director by the Board of Direc- tors of First City Monument Bank (FCMB) Limited represents aT significant milestone in bringing about a gender diverse workforce at the senior management and board levels in Nigerian banks. The appointment also reinforces a recent trend in the banking sector that has seen women emerging as CEOs of commercial banks. At the last count, six out of the 23 com- mercial banks in the country, representing 26 per cent, have women in CEO positions. Apart from Mrs Yemisi Edun in FCMB, Guaranty Trust Bank has Mrs Miriam Olusanya, Fidelity Bank has Mrs Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, and Citibank Nigeria has Mrs Ireti Samuel-Ogbu. Others are Mrs Halima Buba of SunTrust Bank Limited and Mrs Tomi Somefun of Unity Bank Plc. Also, the number of women in other top management positions in Nigerian banks is on the rise.Although there are currently no specific legal requirements for gender diversity in Nigeria's legal system, the gender gap in the country's banking sector is indeed closing. Nonetheless, regulations issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Code of Corporate Governance and the 2018 Nigerian Code of Corporate Governance (CCG) provide assurances that the number of women holding key positions in the banking sector will only continue to grow. In the light of FCMB's bold move to appoint Mrs Yemisi Edun as its substantive MD/CEO after serving as acting MD of the bank for a few months, there is no gainsaying that the bank is committed to both promoting gender equality and women's empowerment. The composition of its board of directors and its executive management reflects this. The bank's board currently has two female Independent Non-Executive Directors: Mrs Mfon Usoro and Ms Olayemi Keri, while another female. It has been said that having just one female member on the Board of Directors of an organisation is an indication of weak- ness. Such arrangement is also viewed as MD of FCMB, Mrs. Yemisi Edun tokenism because it is quite hard for one person to challenge existing corporate behaviour. FCMB stands tall among its possible. She began her career with million for the bank. The AfDB feels access to finance for women entrepreneurs. peers in this respect because, unlike other Akintola Williams Deloitte (member more comfortable channelling the The journey towards gender equality is institutions, women are well represented firm of Deloitte Touché Tohmatsu) in funds meant for Nigerian enterprises truly and well underway. on its Board of Directors. Undoubtedly, the 1987, focusing on corporate finance and women-empowered businesses The role of women in societal progress FCMB Group is now a model corporation activities. She was also involved in in the agribusiness, manufacturing, is being undermined by the viewpoint that in Corporate Nigeria. the audit of Banks and Other Finan- healthcare, and renewable energy men must remain the leaders in society. Notably, a study by McKinsey & Com- cial Institutions. She joined FCMB sectors through a gender-sensitive Such perspective is equally responsible pany analysed more than 1,000 companies in the year 2000 as Divisional Head financial institution. for relegating women to the background in 12 countries and concluded that gender- of Internal Audit and Control before And with 30 per cent of the funds and limiting their participation in top diverse companies are more likely to assuming the role of Chief Financial earmarked for underserved women- leadership positions. Although Chief Bola outperform their national industry average Officer of the bank. empowered businesses due to the Kuforiji-Olubi broke the glass ceiling when in terms of profitability. With three women Mrs Yemisi Edun holds a bachelor's effects of the rampaging Covid-19, she was appointed as the chairman, board on the most influential decision-making in chemistry from the University of it is only fair that a women-friendly of directors of United Bank for Africa areas of the bank, the future can only be Ife, Ile-Ife, and a master's in interna- financial institution like FCMB is (UBA) in 1984, it is only now that signifi- rosy. Given the amount of information tional accounting and finance from selected to manage the process of cant changes are being recorded and there needed to understand and govern today's the University of Liverpool, United disbursement. is a need to sustain and even accelerate the complex business environment, a diverse Kingdom. A fellow of the Institute In his comments, Stefan Nal- changes. and gender-balanced board appears to be of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria letamby, AfDB's Director of Financial The days of tokenism in appointments the best guarantee for inclusive growth. (ICAN) and a Certified Financial Sector Development, said, "The Afri- of women into boards and the incredible Women are also well represented in the Analyst, CFA® Charter holder, she can Development Bank is pleased to disparity in the male to female ratio of day to day running of the bank. Apart is also an associate member of the support FCMB's strategy to become directors in Nigeria must be reversed, from Mrs Oluwatoyin Olaiya, who serves Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers; a dominant player in addressing the especially when studies after studies have as Executive Director and Chief Risk an associate member of the Institute funding needs of women-empowered conclusively shown the positive correlation Officer, there is also Ms Felicia Obozuwa, of Taxation of Nigeria; a member and local enterprises." between gender diversity on the board and Divisional Head, Corporate Services, of Information Systems Audit and AfDB will also provide a technical financial performance. Corporate Nigeria Mrs Folake Fajemisin, Divisional Head, Control, U.S.A; and a Certified assistance grant of $200,000 through must begin to move away from its patriar- Corporate Banking, Mrs Funmi Adedibu, Information Systems Auditor. its Affirmative Finance Action for chal tendency and embrace gender balance Company Secretary and General Counsel, FCMB is already reaping the Women in Africa (AFAWA) initiative, in the composition of boards of directors. and Mrs Rolayo Akhigbe, Divisional Head, benefits of advancing gender diver- supported by the Women Entrepre- The World Economic Forum (WEF) Transaction Services. sity beyond its immediate workplace. neurship Finance Initiative, as the says that the overall global gender gap FCMB easily meets the minimum of 30 For example, the board of directors project aligns with the objectives of can only be closed in 108 years with per cent female representation on boards of African Development Bank (AfDB) AFAWA, which aims to improve current trends. This is unacceptable. It is, of Nigerian commercial banks mandate of recently approved a loan of $50 gender inclusivity by improving however, heartening to note that the CBN the CBN. Governor, Godwin Emefiele, has been The choice of Mrs Yemisi Edun as the consistent in affirming CBN's commitment top decision-maker in the bank is undoubt- to the promotion of gender diversity in edly no happenstance. She fits perfectly Given the amount of information needed to understand the workplace, empowering women and into the category of qualified women increasing their active participation in the with the right skillset and experience to and govern today's complex business environment, economy. serve on corporate boards. Her pedigree, a diverse and gender-balanced board appears to be backed by work experience spanning -Okoya, a former newspaper editor and nearly 35 years, is of the highest quality the best guarantee for inclusive growth social commentator, writes from Lagos. 60 THISDAY ˾
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17, 2021 BUSINESS/MONEYGUIDE RIMAN Calls for Increased Investments in Technology to Mitigate Banking Sector Risks

Nume Ekeghe quality, dearth of requisite talent and appropriate investment in and complexity of organizational digitalisation of risk management Risk Managers Association of structure.” Digital risk transformations Nigeria (RIMAN) has urged He noted that in the digital era, should be pursued intention- banks to increase investments risk management professionals ally by organisations It will be risk assessment tools to mitigate should be required to review increasingly challenging for risk the increased risks that come and reshape their mandate and management approach to stay with digitisation in the bank- roles, develop digitally driven analog while customer-facing ing sector. President RIMAN, mindset and capacity to provide activities and operations race Mr. Magnus Nnoka stated this faster, more forward-looking, and ahead into digital.” while speaking at the 20th Annual deeper insights in driving the In his keynote address, Man- International Conference of the new working environment. aging Director of First Bank of Risk Management Association He added: “Furthermore, Nigeria Limited, Mr. Adesola of Nigeria, where stakeholders concerns have been raised not Adeduntan said risk managers gathered to deliberate on ‘Risk by a few, that technological should be well equipped to Management in a Digital Era.’ innovation or digitalization better manage emerging risks Nnoka said: “The rise in digital specifically in the banking sector in a digital world. Adeduntan assets and channels consequently appear to be concentrated mostly who was represented by Group lead to emerging and evolving on customer-facing journeys such Executive Treasury & International risk types, therefore, we are as online banking and marketing Banking Group of First Bank, Mr. seeing increasing digitisation and the activities that support Ini Ebong said risk leaders are of risk. Even as organisation these journeys such as customer expected to provide the required seek increasing digitisation, onboarding, customer servicing support that will enable their we can readily identify few of and resolution of complaints. organizations to remain resilient the drawbacks on this journey, “It is my submission that amidst uncertainties and growing MARKET INDICATORS these include Legacy Information Managing risk in a digital era complexities in an operating asset, organizational culture, data should be supported by adequate business environment. MONEY AND CREDIT STATISTICS (MILLION NAIRA) JANUARY 2021 RSTDA: Nigerians Spend Billions Money Supply (M3) 38,779,455.43 -- CBN Bills Held by Money Holding Sectors 1,039,129.55 of Naira Abroad on Tourism Money Supply (M2) 37,740,325.88 -- Quasi Money 21,779,302.69 Blessing Ibunge ÓØ
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tourism is not encouraging, Koko added that the idea especially where security is a for the event is to keep the ---- Currency Outside Banks 2,364,871.13 The Rivers State Tourism and concern, in the preservation of conversation going irrespective of Development Agency (RSTDA) these areas where bound is built. challenges; he called for collabora- ---- Demand Deposits 13,596,152.06 has noted that Nigerians spend “More so, people in the com- tion with the media and other Net Foreign Assets (NFA) 7,414,275.50 Billions of Naira on outbound munity do not even understand agencies to promote the use of tourism building the economy that people come inside to see arts to sustain wealth and growth Net Domestic Assets(NDA) 31,365,179.93 of other nations. what they have. So you have to productivity in environment and -- Net Domestic Credit (NDC) 42,916,586.63 Director General of RSTDA, let them understand that so the the people. Mr Yibo Koko stated this at the traveling agencies can now use Also speaking, Rivers State ---- Credit to Government (Net) 12,304,773.44 agency’s launch of a one week all the tools they have to bring Commissioner for Information ---- Memo: Credit to Govt. (Net) less FMA 0.00 tourism seminar in Port Harcourt. them into the state and country. and Communication, Paulinus He stressed that the nation’s Culture is our way of life, but we Nsirim, commended RSTDA for ---- Memo: Fed. and Mirror Accounts (FMA) 0.00 economy should be encourage do not understand it. Meanwhile, it’s giant strides at organising the through the inbound tourism, the white man uses our resources launch, pledging the Ministry ---- Credit to Private Sector (CPS) 30,611,813.19 thereby promoting local arts to boost their economy. We need collaboration in the development --Other Assets Net 3,892,112.74 and culture. Speaking on the to make them understand that of tourism in the state. theme: “Understanding Domestic we can use what we have to Represented by a Human Reserve Money (Base Money 13,264,585.14 Tourism and Monetizing Creative better our economy, “he said. Resources Development Expert, and Cultural Tourism Assets in Speaking on the agency’s road Dr Ugo Onyeka, Nsirim noted --Currency in Circulation 2,831,167.19 Rivers,” Koko stressed the need to map on improving tourism in that tourism can provide better --Banks Reserves 10,433,417.96 ˾

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 education and sensitise the local the State, Koko said, “Initially, living opportunities for many in --Special Intervention Reserves 317,234.17 communities about the value of when we came onboard we put the country. their resources, adding that there across a N100billion Revenue Base He said: “Having recognized is more opportunities for wealth Financing for Rivers State, which the important role tourism can Money Market Indicators (in Percentage) creation in arts and culture. is how we can grow the Rivers play in the economic growth of Month March 2018 “Nigerians spend a lot of State economy to N100billion for any country, Nigeria identified Inter-Bank Call Rate 15.16 money doing outbound tourism the citizens and state in terms tourism as an important economic because people plan with their of revenue.” sector to be developed as one Minimum Rediscount Rate (MRR) families to travel abroad, where He disclosed that the agency of the alternation for bailing they go to the people deliberately has a structure that will grow the country out if economy Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) 14.00 doing things that attracts them to wealth not only in the state but depression.” Treasury Bill Rate 11.84 Quickteller Highlights Practical Business Savings Deposit Rate 4.07 1 Month Deposit Rate 8.82 Strategies for SMEs To Thrive 3 Months Deposit Rate 9.72 6 Months Deposit Rate 10.93 As businesses seek to overcome Head, Growth Marketing, Mer- initiatives such as this event to the post-COVID challenges affect- chant and Ecosystem, Olawale avail SMEs the opportunity to 12 Months Deposit Rate 10.21 ing them, Quickteller Business, Akanbi, enumerated practical learn and grow their businesses has said it will continue to business strategies and skills efficiently.” Prime Lending rate 17.35 provide support for Small and needed for SMEs to increase He noted that Quickteller Maximum Lending Rate 31.55 Medium Enterprises (SMEs) their revenues. Business is committed to building through various value proposi- He said SMEs must leverage capacity and supporting SMEs tions that are designed to drive partnership, innovative solutions across the country. He urged ˾
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ͯͱϱ growth for the sector. and viable financial products to SMEs to take advantage of all The firm made this known drive the growth of their busi- the offerings on the Quickteller OPEC DAILY BASKET PRICE 

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ͰͮͰͯ during the SME event hosted by nesses. Akanbi continues, “The Business platform, explaining Nelly Agbogu popularly known SME sector is fundamental to that the integrated platform is The price of OPEC basket of thirteen crudes stood at $73.15 a barrel on Thursday, as Naijabrandchick and Chioma driving the economic develop- designed to help them better compared with $75.29 the previous day, according to OPEC Secretariat calculations. Ifeanyi-Eze the promoter of the ment of any nation, critical skills navigate the challenges around The OPEC Reference Basket of Crudes (ORB) is made up of the following: Saharan Accountinghub on Instagram. such as business management, payments collections which Blend (Algeria), Girassol (Angola), Djeno (Congo), Zafiro (Equatorial Guinea), Rabi Light The event themed, “Let’s bookkeeping and basic accounting invariably allows them focus on (Gabon), Iran Heavy (Islamic Republic of Iran), Basra Light (Iraq), Kuwait Export (Kuwait), Talk: Your Business & Sales,” processes are necessary for SMEs their core businesses, with their diverse transaction requirements Es Sider (Libya), Bonny Light (Nigeria), Arab Light (Saudi Arabia), Murban (UAE) and held in Lagos, was sponsored to stay abreast and scale. This Merey (Venezuela). by Quickteller Business. is why Quickteller Business is taken care of through the versatile In his opening remarks, Group in partnership with impactful platform. THISDAY ˾
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Equities Market Declines by N9bn on Profit-taking in Banking, Oil & Gas Stocks Darasimi Adebisi the overall market capitalisation are; CAP Plc, Lafarge Africa, close at N2.25, per share. down by 4.81 per cent to close 16.188 million shares valued at value lost N9 billion to close at Zenith Bank, Fidelity Bank Mutual Benefits Assurance at N1.98, per share. N33.348 million. Trading on the Nigerian equities N20.583 trillion. and Ecobank Transnational rose by 8.82 per cent to close Fidelity Bank lost 4.80 per cent Fidelity Bank followed with market yesterday started the week Sectoral performance revealed Incorporated (ETI). at 37 kobo, while FTN Cocoa to close at N2.38, while Champion 10.442 million shares worth marginally lower, as investors that Banking (-0.7per cent), Oil & However, the market breadth Processors gained 6.82 per Breweries shed 4.55 per cent to N24.329 million, while Trans- profit-taking in Banking and Oil Gas (-0.3per cent) and Industrial closed positively, recording 24 cent each to close at 47 kobo, close at N2.10, per share. national Corporation of Nigeria & gas stocks down the market Goods (-0.1per cent) indices gainers as against 15 losers. MRS per share. The total volume of trades (Transcorp) traded 9.769 million by N9 billion. declined, while the Insurance Oil Nigeria recorded the highest On the other hand, Associated declined by 25.2 per cent to shares valued at N9.284 million. In summary, the Nigerian and Consumer Goods indices price gain of 9.92 per cent to Bus Company led the losers’ 141.282 billion units, valued at Consolidated Hallmark Insur- Exchange Limited (NGX) All- closed flat. close at N13.85, per share. May chart by 8.33 per cent to close N1.636 billion, and exchanged ance traded 9.181 million shares Share Index (ASI) dipped by The market negative per- and Baker Nigeria followed with at 33 kobo, per share. Lasaco in 3,393 deals. valued at N4.407 million, while 16.94 basis points, representing a formance was driven by price a gain 9.77 per cent to close at Assurance followed with a Transactions in the shares Access Bank transacted 7.585 decline of 0.04 per cent, to close depreciation in large and medium N4.83, while Honeywell Flour decline of 6.67 per cent to close of eTranzact International Plc million shares worth N69.025 at 39,505.40 basis points. Similarly, capitalised stocks amongst which Mill went up by 9.76 per cent to at N1.40, while Livestock Feeds topped the activity chart with million. PRICES FOR SECURITIES TRADED AS OF 16/08/2021

MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED MAIN BOARD DEALS MARKET QUANTITY VALUE TRADED PRICE TRADED ( N ) PRICE TRADED ( N ) 62 TUESDAY, 
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THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 63 MARKET NEWS

A Mutual fund (Unit Trust) is an investment floor of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Offer price: The price at which units of a trust or vehicle managed by a SEC (Securities and A REIT (Real Estate Investment Trust) is an ETF are bought by investors. Exchange Commission) registered Fund Manager. investment vehicle that allows both small and Bid Price: The price at which Investors Investors with similar objectives buy units of the large investors to part-own real estate ventures (eg. redeem (sell) units of a trust or ETF. Fund so that the Fund Manager can buy securities Offices, Houses, Hospitals) in proportion to their Yield/Total Return: Denotes the total that willl generate their desired return. investments. The assets are divided into shares that return an investor would have earned on An ETF (Exchange Traded Fund) is a type are traded on the Nigerian Stock Exchange. his investment. Money Market Funds report of fund which owns the assets (shares of stock, Yield while others report Year- to-date Total bonds, oil futures, gold bars, foreign currency, GUIDE TO DATA: Return. etc.) and divides ownership of those assets into Date: All fund prices are quoted in Naira as at 13- NAV: Is value per share of the real estate shares. Investors can buy these ‘shares’ on the Aug-2021, unless otherwise stated. assets held by a REIT on a specific date. DAILY PRICE LIST FOR MUTUAL FUNDS, REITS and ETFS MUTUAL FUNDS / UNIT TRUSTS GREENWICH ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] AFRINVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Web: www.gtlgroup.com ; Tel: +234 1 4619261-2 Web: www.afrinvest.com; Tel: +234 818 885 6757 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Greenwich Plus Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Equity Fund 156.41 157.82 -3.36% Nigeria Entertainment Fund N/A N/A N/A Afrinvest Plutus Fund 100.00 100.00 4.75% GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Nigeria International Debt Fund 316.37 316.37 -21.58% Web: www.gdl.com.ng ; Tel: +234 9055691122 Afrinvest Dollar Fund 110.82 110.82 -1.13% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ALTERNATIVE CAPITAL PARTNERS LTD [email protected] GDL Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A Web: www.acapng.com, Tel: +234 1 291 2406, +234 1 291 2868 INVESTMENT ONE FUNDS MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.investment-one.com; Tel: +234 812 992 1045,+234 1 448 8888 ACAP Canary Growth Fund N/A N/A N/A Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ACAP Income Funds N/A N/A N/A Abacus Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.93% AIICO CAPITAL LTD [email protected] Vantage Balanced Fund 2.72 2.78 -4.66% Web: www.aiicocapital.com, Tel: +234-1-2792974 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vantage Guaranteed Income Fund 1.00 1.00 4.50% AIICO Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.68% Kedari Investment Fund (KIF) 152.21 152.49 -2.11% AIICO Balanced Fund 3.27 3.43 -3.75% Vantage Equity Income Fund (VEIF) - June Year End 1.28 1.33 1.92% Vantage Dollar Fund (VDF) - June Year End 1.10 1.10 0.88% ANCHORIA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] [email protected] LOTUS CAPITAL LTD fi[email protected] Web:www.anchoriaam.com, Tel: 08166830267; 08036814510; 08028419180 Web: www.lotuscapitallimited.com; Tel: +234 1-291 4626 / +234 1-291 4624 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Anchoria Money Market 100.00 100.00 7.77% Lotus Halal Investment Fund 1.43 1.45 4.86% Anchoria Equity Fund 142.51 144.15 7.14% Lotus Halal Fixed Income Fund 1,143.32 1,143.32 5.31% Anchoria Fixed Income Fund 1.11 1.11 -16.23% MERISTEM WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ARM INVESTMENT MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Web: www.arm.com.ng; Tel: 0700 CALLARM (0700 225 5276) Web: http://www.meristemwealth.com/funds/ ; Tel: +234 1-4488260 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Aggressive Growth Fund 19.72 20.32 8.76% Meristem Equity Market Fund 11.48 11.54 9.65% ARM Discovery Balanced Fund 432.10 445.12 7.92% Meristem Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 7.64% ARM Ethical Fund 38.26 39.41 13.49% PAC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] ARM Eurobond Fund ($) 1.09 1.09 -1.02% Web: www.pacassetmanagement.com/mutualfunds; Tel: +234 1 271 8632 ARM Fixed Income Fund 0.97 0.97 -7.59% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn ARM Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 8.10% PACAM Balanced Fund 1.66 1.69 7.15% AVA GLOBAL ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED [email protected] PACAM Fixed Income Fund 11.52 11.57 -5.06% Web: www.avacapitalgroup.com PACAM Money Market Fund 10.00 10.00 5.75% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn PACAM Equity Fund 1.65 1.67 4.51% AVA GAM Fixed Income Dollar Fund 105.67 105.67 3.89% PACAM EuroBond Fund 112.72 114.53 2.59% AVA GAM Fixed Income Naira Fund 1,017.15 1,017.15 1.72% SCM CAPITAL LIMITED [email protected] AXA MANSARD INVESTMENTS LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.scmcapitalng.com; Tel: +234 1-280 2226,+234 1- 280 2227 Web: www.axamansard.com; Tel: +2341-4488482 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn AXA Mansard Equity Income Fund N/A N/A N/A SCM Capital Frontier Fund 131.76 134.35 8.60% AXA Mansard Money Market Fund N/A N/A N/A SFS CAPITAL NIGERIA LTD [email protected] CAPITAL EXPRESS ASSET AND TRUST LIMITED [email protected] Web: www.sfsnigeria.com, Tel: +234 (01) 2801400 Web: www.capitalexpressassetandtrust.com ; Tel: +234 803 307 5048 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn SFS Fixed Income Fund 1.05 1.05 10.12% CEAT Fixed Income Fund 2.01 2.01 -10.48% STANBIC IBTC ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Capital Express Balanced Fund(Formerly: Union Trustees Mixed Fund) 2.12 2.16 -7.75% Web: www.stanbicibtcassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 280 1266; 0700 MUTUALFUNDS CARDINALSTONE ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.cardinalstoneassetmanagement.com ; Tel: +234 (1) 710 0433 4 Stanbic IBTC Balanced Fund 3,281.54 3,316.53 2.18% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Bond Fund 232.23 232.23 3.28% CardinalStone Fixed Income Alpha Fund 1.01 1.01 2.34% Stanbic IBTC Ethical Fund 1.22 1.24 4.24% CHAPELHILL DENHAM MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Stanbic IBTC Guaranteed Investment Fund 305.81 305.81 3.78% Stanbic IBTC Iman Fund 224.45 227.78 2.84% Web: www.chapelhilldenham.com, Tel: +234 461 0691 Stanbic IBTC Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.16% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Stanbic IBTC Nigerian Equity Fund 10,366.04 10,516.56 -1.21% Chapelhill Denham Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 8.04% Stanbic IBTC Dollar Fund (USD) 1.27 1.27 3.40% Paramount Equity Fund 16.64 16.94 4.03% Stanbic IBTC Shariah Fixed Income Fund 115.26 115.26 3.76% Women's Investment Fund 136.97 138.56 2.92% Stanbic IBTC Enhanced Short-Term Fixed Income Fund 103.01 103.01 - CORDROS ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] UNITED CAPITAL ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD Web: www.cordros.com, Tel: 019036947 Web: www.unitedcapitalplcgroup.com; Tel: +234 01-6317876 Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Cordros Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 7.59% United Capital Balanced Fund 1.30 1.32 1.65% Cordros Milestone Fund 2023 118.81 119.58 United Capital Bond Fund 1.91 1.91 4.10% Cordros Milestone Fund 2028 N/A N/A United Capital Equity Fund 0.87 0.89 9.49% Cordros Dollar Fund ($) 107.89 107.89 United Capital Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 9.82% CORONATION ASSEST MANAGEMENT [email protected] United Capital Eurobond Fund 119.62 119.62 4.52% Web:www.coronationam.com , Tel: 012366215 United Capital Wealth for Women Fund 1.05 1.07 3.48% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn United capital Sukuk Fund 1.06 1.06 5.92% Coronation Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 7.70% QUANTUM ZENITH ASSET MANAGEMENT & INVESTMENTS LTD [email protected] Coronation Balanced Fund 1.20 1.21 -0.26% Web: www.quantumzenith.com.ng; Tel: +234 1-2784219 Coronation Fixed Income Fund 1.38 1.38 -12.82% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn EDC FUNDS MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] Zenith Equity Fund 12.93 13.04 8.92% Web: www.ecobank.com Tel: 012265281 Zenith Ethical Fund 14.24 14.36 16.55% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Zenith Income Fund 24.28 24.28 1.25% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class A 100.00 100.00 8.28% Zenith Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 6.20% EDC Nigeria Money Market Fund Class B 1,000,000.00 1,000,000.00 7.10% EDC Nigeria Fixed Income Fund 1,140.42 1,155.98 -0.98% REITS FBNQUEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.fbnquest.com/asset-management; Tel: +234-81 0082 0082 SFS REIT 125.18 10.79% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Union Homes REIT 51.80 2.67% FBN Fixed Income Fund 1,402.47 1,402.47 11.38% EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS FBN Balanced Fund 191.96 193.32 2.28% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn FBN Halal Fund 111.86 111.86 8.30% Lotus Halal Equity Exchange Traded Fund 13.46 13.56 1.84% FBN Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 9.67% SIAML Pension ETF 40 122.83 125.89 2.15%

FBN Nigeria Eurobond (USD) Fund - Retail 126.66 126.66 3.64% Stanbic IBTC ETF 30 Fund 97.29 99.42 -1.94% FBN Smart Beta Equity Fund 158.39 160.61 4.77% MERGROWTH ETF 17.90 18.00 FCMB ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED [email protected] MERVALUE ETF 18.28 18.38 Web: www.fcmbassetmanagement.com; Tel: +234 1 462 2596 VETIVA FUND MANAGERS LTD [email protected] Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Web: www.vetiva.com; Tel: +234 1 453 0697 Legacy Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 5.66% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Legacy Debt Fund 3.96 3.96 2.39% Vetiva Banking Exchange Traded Fund 3.93 3.97 4.06% Legacy Equity Fund 1.60 1.63 5.25% Vetiva Consumer Goods Exchange Traded Fund 5.93 6.01 4.12% Legacy USD Bond Fund 1.18 1.18 4.16% Vetiva Griffin 30 Exchange Traded Fund 17.59 17.69 8.33% FSDH ASSET MANAGEMENT LTD [email protected] Vetiva Money Market Fund 1.00 1.00 6.31% Web: www.fsdhaml.com; Tel: 01-270 4884-5; 01-280 9740-1 Vetiva Industrial Goods Exchange Traded Fund 19.34 19.54 -5.70% Fund Name Bid Price Offer Price Yield / T-Rtn Vetiva S&P Nigeria Sovereign Bond Exchange Traded Fund 153.86 155.86 -29.87% Coral Balanced Fund 3,725.17 3,780.53 -0.51% Coral Income Fund 3,358.16 3,358.16 2.50% INFRASTRUCTURE FUND Fund Name NAV Per Share Yield / T-Rtn Coral Money Market Fund 100.00 100.00 3.71% Chapel Hill Denham Nigeria Infrastructure Debt Fund 107.40 13.11% The value of investments and the income from them may fall as well as rise. Past performance is a guide and not an indication of future returns. Fund prices published in this edition are also available on each fund manager’s website and FMAN’s website at www.fman.com.ng. Fund prices are supplied by the operator of the relevant fund and are published for information purposes only. 64 TUESDAY, 
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THISDAY SPECIAL REPORT

Buhari Kyari Sylva What You Need To Know About New Petroleum Act With the President signing of the Petroleum Industry Bill, PIB, into law and now to be known as Petroleum Industry Act, PIA, the entire framework for doing business in the oil sector changes fundamentally. Emmanuel Addeh brings out the highlights of the new Act that will now govern operations in the sector going forward r
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THISDAY 65 PERSPECTIVE As Buhari Makes History with Petroleum Industry Act ...Late Chief of Staff hailed James Ume

igeria recorded a major progress on the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) on Monday as President Muhammadu Buhari signed it into law exactly 48 days after it was passedN by both arms of the National Assembly. This another historic feat recorded by the Buhari-led administration. Also, one must not lose sight of the major role played by Abba Kyari, the late Chief of Staff to the President, who contributed significantly towards shaping the new oil and gas framework Kyari was close to launching the long- delayed initiatives to restructure the notoriously underperforming oil and gas sector, a feat that was even acknowledged by Financial Times of London. Indeed, the Petroleum Industry Act provides legal, governance, regulatory and fiscal framework for the Nigerian petroleum industry, the development of host communities, and related matters. With this, the oil and gas industry now has a legal, governance, regulatory and fiscal framework. Special Adviser to the President on Media, Mr. Femi Adesina, said President Buhari, working from home in five days quarantine as required by the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19 after returning from London on Friday, signed the bill in his determination to fulfill his constitutional duty. But the ceremonial part of the new legislation will be done on Wednesday, after the days of mandatory isolation would have been fulfilled. Even though the legislation has been in the works since the tenure of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, successive sessions of the National Assembly were not able to pass it because of vested interests by stakeholders in the oil and gas sector. The legislation is designed to reform the Nigerian oil and gas industry. Its central aim of the law is to foster sustainable development in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. The law started as an omnibus bill and was Buhari later divided into four separate bills before it was reintroduced in 2020 as a consolidated bill. More so, while the oil and gas sector contributes clear separation of roles between industry operators Nigeria to make the most of the industry, the During the Senate hearing last month, the bill about 10 per cent to the country's Gross Domestic and regulators, and questioned the over-hasty passage of the PIB was imperative as it has the passed third reading after Mohammed Sabo, Product, it contributes about 90 per cent of the manner in which local content had been pursued prospect to guarantee a robust fiscal regime, chairman of the joint committee petroleum (upstream foreign exchange earnings; 60 per cent of total in the oil and gas sector. protect the environment, ensure development of and downstream) and gas, presented a report and income and to a large extent is a major barometer “You cannot but rely on foreign investment if host communities, ensure proper alignment with its clauses were put to voice vote. to determine the health of the country. you want to grow; we have seen the cost of local other sectors and encourage investors to expand Sabo said the legislation is aimed at “promoting That is, any adverse change in the industry will content shoot up in the last 10 years, magnifying their investments in Nigeria. transparency, good governance and accountability have a major impact on government finances as the cost of doing business in Nigeria,” Kyari said “Getting the petroleum legislation passed is in the oil and gas sector.” was the case last year when the price of crude oil recently. the right thing to do because investors will not On the other hand, at the House of Representatives, dropped significantly. He had also at a separate meeting stressed the invest their money if they are not sure of how the bill was passed after Mohammed Monguno, Clearly, one of those that has been in the forefront need for the lawmakers to quickly move from the they are going to get their investment back and chairman of the ad hoc committee on the PIB, of transforming the oil and gas industry, who also unstable situation the country was previously on what benefits can they get from their investment presented the report and the lawmakers voted on contributed significantly to the new structure in the the matter, to a stable one, saying the only way and how stable the investment climate is. 319 clauses of the bill. Monguno said by passing sector is Group Managing Director of the Nigerian out was the passage of the PIB. “We must resolve the petroleum legislation the bill, the ninth house would have succeeded National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Mallam According to Kyari, foreign capital was needed and am aware that this administration is working in enacting important legislation. Mele Kyari. in the upstream sector and the only way to attract assiduously to get the law passed within the shortest Indeed, the new legislation is expected to bring Since his appointment, Kyari has remained focused it was to have stable laws and a friendly business frame of time,” Kyari had said at a different forum. governance issues in the oil and gas sector in in ensuring the passage of this very important environment that could guarantee cost recovery Kyari’s passion to the PIB’s passage ties up with tandem with the international best practices. legislation by rallying all the relevant stakeholders. and a decent return on investment for investors. his desire to bequeath to Nigerians a vibrant oil It is believed that the absence of the legislation The NNPC boss has been vocal and a major He had disclosed that the uncertainty in the and gas industry as contained in the transformative greatly stalled the growth of the petroleum industry advocate on the need for the lawmakers to pass sector created by the long delay in the passage agenda he unveiled when he assumed office. and its unstable environment made international the bill which has been largely described as a of the PIB has led to a number of divestments That was his Transparency, Accountability and investors to lose confidence in the nation’s oil game-changer for the country’s oil and gas industry. from the country in the recent past. Performance Excellence (TAPE) agenda, a five-step and gas industry. For instance, in addressing the National Assembly’s The GMD had also stated that the drive by the strategic roadmap. That is why the bill over the years attracted House of Representatives’ Petroleum Resources management of NNPC to entrench the culture of According to Kyari, ensuring energy security the attention of stakeholders and investors in (Upstream) Committee, Kyari had urged swift passage transparency in the corporation had improved its is one of the cardinal agenda of the President the country’s oil and gas industry because of of the PIB in order to attract capital, strengthen cost business fortunes and creditworthiness as lenders Muhammadu Buhari administration. the significant impact the sector has on Nigeria's recovery and ensure decent returns on investment. are now willing to grant credit to it. Furthermore, he said closely related to energy economy. Kyari had also called for the new law to enshrine a Kyari had consistently maintained that for security was the rehabilitation and expansion of the local refining capacity. To global professional services firm, KPMG, if WATERSHED MOMENT, AS BUHARI SIGNS PETROLEUM ACT TO OVERHAUL OIL INDUSTRY Nigeria must achieve its ambition of 40 billion sign the law, describing it as offensive, made to address the demands of the It stated that the Niger Delta unequivocal message to the Niger barrels of oil in reserves and four million barrels repugnant and anti-people. oil producing communities. people may have no option but to Delta people that how they feel and of oil per day, it needs to attract new investments The party in a statement by the It added: "Our party fears that the take a position on the issue which what they say, do not count, at all, in into the sector. National Publicity Secretary, Kola new law cannot guarantee the desired include seeking political as well as the Schemes of the Nigerian Project. This task, it noted, has even become more daunting Ologbondiyan, noted that the signing stability and development in the oil legal response to the issue at stake. “That's insensitive, abominable in the light of the various challenges facing the of the law, despite widespread public and gas sector as well as respite in The group in a statement by its and afar every boundary of proper industry, especially with respect to the renewed rejection, amounted to endorsement of the Niger Delta region. spokesman, Ken Robinson, wondered Democratic practice, and, therefore, focus on renewables and energy transition. imposition, saying it further confirmed "If anything, the Act as signed by why President Buhari assented unacceptable to the good people of “The oil in the ground is of no use to the country that, “President Buhari and his All President Buhari is a dangerous recipe to the bill to become law despite the Niger Delta, the critical economic if it cannot monetise it. Progressives Congress (APC) have for avoidable crisis in the sector." condemnation of some of its provisions nexus of the entire Nigerian territory. “Therefore, the PIB must lead to a massive no iota of respect for the people as The PDP called on President Buhari including the paltry three per cent "The Niger Delta people will speak, transformation of the industry and succeed in well as the tenets of democracy as a to salvage the situation by immediately provision for the Host Communities shortly, after full consultations, on this attracting the desired investment required to reposition system of government.” forwarding an amendment bill to the Development Trust Fund and the callous act, on the best legal and According to the PDP, "By his action, National Assembly to reflect the true appropriation of 30 per cent of NNPC political response." the industry. Otherwise, Nigeria’s production will President Buhari has only authenticated wishes and aspirations of every segment Limited’s profit for the Frontier Oil On their part, the ljaw National continue to decline significantly. that he is not a listening leader and of the nation. Exploration Fund. Congress (INC) said it remains resolute “Hopefully, the provisions of the PIB will be that the APC and its leaders are only While calling for calm across the According to the group, the law on its earlier stance on the minimum enough to stimulate the desired investment though out to trample on the will of Nigerians country, particularly the South-South fell short of the expectations of the acceptable allocation of 10 per cent it has not addressed the issue of energy transition for their selfish interests. geo-political zone, the PDP also charged Oil and Gas Producing Communities, to the oil bearing communities as from fossil fuel to clean energy. The key question "In putting his hands to endorse the lawmakers elected on its platform to which bear the brunt of unconscionable compensation for the various degrees is whether those investments would pay off or obnoxious bill, even with its distasteful, be at alert even as preparation must be industry operations. of damages suffered in course of oil would they be a risky bet?” paltry and provocative three per cent commenced for an urgent amendment It further stated: "This assent, by and gas production in the area. Therefore, it is expected that the signing of this revenue to oil producing communities, to this law. President Buhari, simply speaks to The president of the umbrella body new law would unlock the enormous investment President Buhari and the APC have Also, the Pan Niger Delta Forum the repugnant attitude of disregard, of Ijaws worldwide, Prof. Benjamin opportunities in the sector, attract the much-needed again displayed disdain and insensitivity (PANDEF) faulted Buhari's assent propelled by arrogance, disdain Okaba, said with President Buhari’s investments as well as significantly raise the country’s to the sufferings of the people of the signing of the bill into law, describing and contempt with which issues assent, their next line of action after oil revenue. Niger Delta." it as unfortunate especially with the concerning the Niger Delta Region the passage of paltry three per cent It is definitely a new dawn for Nigeria’s oil The PDP said the President could public outcry associated with the are treated, particularly, by the present would be announced after further sector as increased orderliness and transparency have returned the bill to the National passage of the bill by the National Administration. consultations with critical stakeholders are expected to turn-around for good. Assembly with a request that it was Assembly. "What this act signifies is an within and outside the region. Ume writes from Abuja 66 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 •THISDAY TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 ˾
THISDAY 67 NEWS XTRA Biden Defends Afghanistan Policy Amid Mounting Criticism of Withdrawal President Joe Biden of the United allowing the Taliban to take over. “If anything, the developments and ultimately sacrifice more bringing an abrupt end to the Air Force plane as it attempted States yesterday defended his “Afghanistan political leaders of the past week reinforce that American lives. 20-year US effort to restructure to move down the tarmac. In administration’s decision to gave up and fled the country; ending US military involvement “I stand squarely behind my the Afghan government and its the video, some people appear continue with the US military the Afghan military collapsed, in Afghanistan now was the right decision,” Biden said. “After 20 military. to fall to their death as the aircraft drawdown in Afghanistan, sometimes without trying to decision,” he added. years, I’ve learned the hard way Within hours of the Taliban takes off. blaming the US-backed Afghan fight,” nbcnews.com quoted Speaking to the American public that there was never a good time takeover, chaos erupted at Kabul’s The White House appeared government and military for Biden to have said. from the White House, Biden said to withdraw U.S. forces. That’s international airport as desperate to be caught off guard by the he stood firmly by his decision why we’re still there.” Afghans raced to flee the country. Taliban’s rapid advance. Within and argued that he was faced with The Taliban seized control of A harrowing video captured the past few days, the US was Businesses, Schools, Offices a choice to either follow through Afghanistan’s capital on Sunday Monday showed Afghans forced to send additional troops with the drawdown or escalate following President Ashraf Ghani’s storming the military side of to Afghanistan to help with Open in Enugu as IPOB the conflict into its third decade departure from the country, the airport and clinging to a US evacuations. Suspends Sit-at-home Order Gideon Arinze in Enugu and of the group, to that effect. David-Chyddy Eleke in Awka It is believed that the suspension of the exercise was Business and academic activities informed by the loss of lives, as well as government offices property and millions of naira yesterday resumed in Enugu which trailed the first week of State following the suspension its implementation. of the weekly sit-at-home order When THISDAY visited by the Indigenous People of Ogbete, the busiest market Biafra (IPOB). in the state, it was bubbling IPOB had declared every as marketers had come from Monday ‘a ghost Monday’ far and near to transact their effective from August 9, businesses. But while some 2021, to prevail on the federal marketers said they were happy government to free Nnamdi to return again having lost huge Kanu, its leader, who is revenue on the first week of currently in detention for alleged implementation of the order, treasonable felony. others said they were not happy But in a statement issued last it was suspended because the Saturday, IPOB’s spokesperson, sit-at-home was a better way Emma Powerful, said the group to press home the demand for had suspended the sit-at-home recognition in the Nigerian state. ALL EYES ON RETURNS… exercise which commenced on Schools in the state also L-R: Deputy Chairman, House of Representatives’ Committee on Finance, Hon. Saidu Musa Abdullahi; Chairman, Board of Trustees , National August 9. resumed for academic activities Association of Microfinance Bank (NAMB), Alhaji Ibrahim Bamalli; and President, NAMB, Mallam Yusuf Ahmed Gyallesu, during the 11th He stated that the suspension just as offices that were locked Annual General Meeting of the NAMB in Abuja…recently of the exercise was due to a on the first day of the exercise ‘direct order’ from Kanu, leader were also opened. Zamfara School Abduction: Three Staff Members Rescued JAMB Fixes Date to Announce Onuminya Innocent in Gusau the school at Bakura yesterday were abducted by the bandits. and rescue strategies in order following the attack on the school The PPRO stated that police to ensure the safe rescue of the Three abducted staff members by bandits. operatives, while on extensive abducted students and staff New Admission Cut-off Marks of Zamfara State College of Mohammed disclosed that bush combing at the surrounding currently in captivity. Kuni Tyessi in Abuja Minister of Education, Adamu Agriculture and Animal Science bandits, who were in a large areas, rescued three staff who The CP further went round Adamu, will have all heads have been rescued by the police. number, came to the school at will be debriefed and medically the school and assessed the Candidates of the 2021Unified of tertiary institutions, heads In a statement issued by the midnight with the intent to abduct examine before being reunited existing security arrangements Tertiary Matriculation of regulatory agencies in the state Police Public Relations large number of students and with their families. to enable more reinforcement Examination (UTME) will on sector, and other stakeholders Officer, Mohammed Shehu, staff, but were heavily confronted The state police boss, while at against further invasion. August 31, 2021, know the in attendance. confirmed this to journalists in by the Tactical Police Operatives the school, held an emergency The Provost of the school, minimum admission cut-off The bulletin read: “This Gusau, the state capital. who were alerted and responded meeting where he assured the Habibu Mainasara, while briefing mark for the 2021/2022 academic policy meeting kick-starts the The statement further said to the scene on time. school management and their the Commissioner of Police, session. admission process into the the state Commissioner of He, however, said a Police relations that the state police commended the resilience of Joint Admission and tertiary institutions. It will discuss Police, Ayuba N. Elkana, Inspector and two other civilian command in collaboration the police operatives for standing Matriculation Board (JAMB) had critical issues emanating from accompanied by strategic and guards lost their lives while 15 with other security agencies their ground despite the abductors last year set 160 and above as the presentation of the Registrar tactical commanders visited students and four staff members are employing various search strong fight against them. cut-off mark for admission into of JAMB on the just-concluded universities; 120 for polytechnics UTME and Direct Entry (DE) and 100 for colleges of education. applications, in addition to According to a bulletin issued setting the tone for the 2021/2022 2023: Nigerian President Must Be a Business-inclined by the spokespersons of the admission exercise. Board, Dr. Fabian Benjamin, last “The meeting is expected to Southerner, Says Publisher Sunday, the decision would be chart policy directions for the Sunday Okobi acquire the understanding that qualities to emerge as president poor and the poor poorer,” he reached on the new minimum country’s tertiary institutions, the country is presently marred in 2023. lamented, saying as a result, cut-off marks and other admission set admission guidelines and The Publisher of THEWILL by insecurity, divisions and He insisted: “The next Nigeria everyone must show interest issues in a policy meeting present application statistics for Newspaper and Downtown lacking citizens’ commitment president must be a detribalised in who emerges as the next scheduled for 31 August. candidates’ performance as well Lifestyle Magazine, Mr. Austyn to the project called Nigeria. and successful industrialist or president in 2023, especially with The meeting, which has been as evaluate the 2020 admission Ogannah, has suggested that According to the publisher, entrepreneur. the rate of rising agitations and approved by its Chairman, exercise.” the next Nigeria president “The next president must be “He or she must be a leader insecurity in the country. should be a Southerner, who a Southern Nigerian, who is with the charisma to unify the Ogannah also lamented the FG Kicks off Phase Two is not a regular politician, but healthy and must not be above country and satisfy the needs poor reading culture among an aggressive and successful 70 years at the time he finishes of the country.” Nigerians, adding that one of of COVID-19 Vaccination businessman, who will unify his tenure in office. Ogannah recalled how the challenges in the country the country. “Nigeria must elect a hybrid Nigerians missed the is lack of political awareness Exercise He noted that the next man personality from the South, who opportunity to form a viable among Nigerians because of to pilot the affairs of Nigeria, is an astute businessman or pressure group with the their poor reading culture. Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja from yesterday. after President Muhammadu woman, who knows how to #EndSARS solidarity protest. Advocating a way forward, The Director-General of Buhari in 2023, must understand create jobs and wealth; someone “The #EndSARS protest was a he called on publishers to ensure The federal government yesterday NAFDAC, Prof Mrs. Mojisola the core needs of the Nigerian who is not your typical politician tool that would have been used that a minimum of 5,000 copies kicked off the phase two of Adeyeye, has however, said people. and is acceptable by all the key to negotiate a better Nigeria, but of their production are sent the COVID-19 vaccination the vaccine is safe to be Ogannah stated this last interests in the country, so we unfortunately it lost its value. It as complimentary copies to programme in Abuja. administered. weekend when he appeared can unite as people and move was the only umbrella that had primary, secondary and tertiary This phase will see the The Secretary to the as a guest on a Classic FM forward. successfully united Nigerians,” institutions in the country as nationwide administration of Government of the Federation 97.3 Radio Programme, ‘The “This person must have a he said. their contributions to curbing about 4,000,080 million doses of (SGF) and the Chairman, Discourse’, blend of Igbo and Yoruba in him The senior journalist, therefore, the poor reading culture. Moderna vaccines donated by Presidential Steering Committee Speaking on the topic: or her so that the agitations from called for solidarity among the Speaking also on internal the United States Government on COVID-19, Mr. Boss ‘Finding Nigeria’s Next the Southeast and South-west elite to occupy the vacuum wrangling among the two as well as the 177,600 doses of Mustapha, officially flagged President’, Ogannah said the regions can be calmed. It has to #EndSARS protest left in order major political parties, the Johnson and Johnson vaccines off the vaccination exercise at perfect driver to take the country be someone from the private to present credible candidates publisher of TheWill Downtown out of the 29,850,000 doses the the Federal Medical Centre through total reconstruction sector with administrative in the 2023 presidential election. Lifestyle Magazine said: federal government purchased in Jabi, Abuja, at an elaborate in 2023 must be authoritative experience.” This, he noted: “They must do “What is happening today through the Africa-Import- ceremony graced by members enough “to reinvent the ship Ogannah lamented that because the present challenges is not new,” describing the Export Bank (Afreximbank) and of the PSC and other dignitaries that will sail the people into Nigerians have suffered a lot in the country affect everybody- squabbles in major political the African Union to people from the National Assembly the right direction.” to allow an uncreative mind rich, poor and elite. parties as recurring events of aged 18 years and above starting and diplomatic corps. He said such Nigerian must with no track record of business “The rich have become every oncoming election. 68 TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 ˾
THISDAY NEWS XTRA 36 States Drag FG to Court over Alleged Non-remittance of N2tn Recovered Assets Alex Enumah in Abuja general are alleging that the to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and National Planning or any 1999 (as amended), all income, Buhari, the minister of finance, federal government between 2015 constitute revenues payable to the other ministry or agency without returns, proceeds or receipts the office of the AGF, and Governments of the 36 states till date from both international federation account instead of the due allocation from the federation howsoever described derived the accountant-general of the of Nigeria have filed a suit at and domestic forfeiture recovered consolidated revenue account of account and the approval of the from confiscated, forfeited and/ federation, and all other relevant the Supreme Court of Nigeria the sum of N1.8 trillion cash, 167 the federal government. National Assembly. or recovered assets constitute authorities and/or agencies of the against the federal government, properties, 450 cars, 300 trucks They further asked the In the event the questions revenue of the Federal Republic of federation to remit the receipts, over the alleged non-remittance and cargoes and 20 million barrels court to determine whether by raised are answered in the Nigeria, which must be remitted income, returns or proceeds of recovered assets into the of crude oil worth about N450 the constitutional provisions affirmative, the plaintiffs want to federation account for the derived from all assets recovered, federation account. billion, but illegally appropriated mentioned above, revenues the Supreme Court to declare, collective benefit of the federal, seized, confiscated and forfeited The suit with number the assets meant for the three accruing to the federation can “that by the provisions of state and local governments.” into the federation account to be SC/395/2021 dated March tiers of government. be appropriated and applied Section 162(1) and Section They also want the court to distributed in accordance with the 9, 2021 was filed on June 16, A copy of the suit sighted by the President through the 162(10) of the Constitution of declare that “the failure and/or provisions of the Constitution” 2021 on behalf of the plaintiffs by THISDAY revealed that Minister of Finance, Budget the federal republic of Nigeria refusal of President Muhammadu is unconstitutional. and has Attorney General of the some of the questions raised Federation as the sole defendant. for determination by the apex The plaintiffs, which include court are whether by sections 162 the Attorney General of Abia State and 80 of the Constitution assets and 35 other states attorneys confiscated, recovered or forfeited Group to Project Delta Governor of Urhobo Extraction in 2023 Sylvester Idowu in Warri the National Chairman of DC-23, Mr. Ighoyota Amori is using the A Former Delta State group to launder his political Gubernatorial Aspirant and image toward contesting for Chieftain of Peoples Democratic Senate in 2023. Party (PDP), Mr. Sunny He noted that the suspicion Onuesoke, has reiterated that in some circles that Amori has the Delta Central 23 (DC-23) been using the group for his was created to project an own political ambition, instead Urhobo candidate for Delta of that of Urhobo people has State Governor in 2023. affected the credibility of the CATCHING THEM YOUNG… Onuesoke dispelled the group and reduction of its L-R: Mr. Iyinoluwa Aboyeji; Mrs. Omowale David-Ashiru; and Chinedu Azodoh, all speakers at the Teen Career Conference organised insinuation that the DC-23, a membership. by the Everlasting Arms Parish of Redeemed Christian Church of God , Abuja...yesterday GODWIN OMOIGUI pressure group within the ruling He insisted that the DC-23 has PDP in the state, was created for nothing to do with whatever the personal political ambition political ambition Amori is Ikpeazu Calls for New Constitution as Bello Faults Timing of Mr. Ighoyota Amori, who is nursing and maintained that the leader of the group. the pressure group was created Oghenevwede Ohwovoriole as the Governor of Kogi State, governments, Bello contended nation-building are ethno- Onuesoke, while addressing to sustain unity for the common in Abuja Yahaya Bello, said the timing was that it would be impossible for the sensitivism and religious journalists at his Agbarha-Otor good and for the actualisation inappropriate and practically country to repeal the constitution sensitivism. For a true sensitive country home in Ughelli North of governorship slot, come 2023 Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia impossible. They spoke at the at this time.’ country like Nigeria, a people’s Local Government Area over under the PDP for emergence State has called for a repeal of the 5th edition of the Osasu Show Ikpeazu said: “The 1999 constitution for us should be the weekend, urged Deltans of governorship candidate 1999 Constitution of the Federal Symposium in Abuja, hosted Constitution is both deficient and a constitution that is capable to disabuse their minds from from Delta Central Senatorial Republic of Nigeria (as amended), by Osasu Igbinedion, with the vulnerable. The vulnerability of of protecting the feeling and rumour making the rounds that District. blaming the precarious situation theme ‘State of the Nation: the the constitution is measured by aspirations of people from of the country on a weakened People’s Constitution.” its inability to promote evolution Borno through Adamawa to constitution. While Ikpeazu argued that a and strengthening of institutions Rivers through Enugu to Ibadan. Army Clashes with Edo Community He stated that a new new constitution championed by and capable of buffering it from Nigerians must be given the constitution would enable the people would entrench good the tendencies of a powerful ruler opportunity to keep themselves over Land Ownership power to devolve evenly to all governance, as power would or against a powerful leader. with a constitution that is original the tiers of government, even be devolved to states and local “The most potent thing to and home-grown. Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City claiming they had acquired their ancestral home without documents. Hundreds of people from Oghede Aghahowa who led his community in Ovia North East community members with placards PDP Unveils Anambra Governorship Campaign Council Local Government of Edo State, of various inscriptions against the Nseobong Okon-Ekong Governor Peter Obi, Senator Uche governorship aspirant would Anambra State House of Assembly, yesterday, protested the destruction army, said the people wanted Ekwunife, who was named the serve as the Vice-Chairman; as who would serve as the Deputy of buildings and existing structures justice from the government. The Peoples Democratic Party Chairperson of the Campaign well as Dr. Alex Obiogbolu, a Director-General for the campaign; including tombs of the dead by He explained that the only (PDP) has unveiled a star-studded Council, Senator Stella Oduah, seasoned public administrator Chief Tony Offiah, a prominent Nigerian Army personnel who acquisition the army made was campaign council, advisory council, a former aviation minister, who and politician, who has been PDP stalwart who would serve were allegedly claiming ownership between 1964 and 1965 and a elders forum, and campaign currently represents Anambra involved with several successful as Director of Financial Services; of their land. demarcation was made, adding: committee that would serve as North at the Nigerian Senate, electoral campaigns, would serve Chief Ugochukwu Okeke, who But the army in a statement has “We took the matter to the the PDP Gubernatorial Campaign and a serving federal lawmaker, as the Director-General of the wouldserve as Secretary to the said the land belongs to the Nigeria palace under Oba Erediauwa Organisation for Anambra State. Hon. Chris Azubogu as well as PDP Gubernatorial Campaign State Campaign Council; and Army, adding that the community and he said the army has not The announcement was made Dr. Ifedi Okwenna. Organisation. Hon. George Ozodinobi, a is just being mischievous by done any other acquisition at a meeting with journalists in Ekwunife would share Other notable appointments former federal lawmaker who claiming ownership. apart from the one that was Awka on Sunday. leadership of the campaign Council into the PDP Anambra State would serve as the Secretary to Speaking on behalf the done during the reign of his Included in the team were with Senator Oduah; Dr Winston Campaign Council were Hon. Tim the Chairman of the Campaign community, during a protest father Oba Akenzua II and so eminent personalities like former Udeh, a lawyer and former Egboka, a former member of the Council. yesterday in Benin City, an the army should stay in their elder the community, Mr. Festus barracks and then instructed that Aghahowa, said soldiers from a road should be constructed by Osun CoS Decries Political Apathy among Elites the Ekheuan barracks invaded the fence, the commander then Sunday Ehigiator investiture ceremony of the “My friends often say to me “As we speak today, not less their community in the morning was immediately transferred.” 37th President of Rotary Club that ‘it is not worth their time than 13.2 million children in The Chief of Staff to the Osun of Ikoyi, Uche Obienu, held or that it is an outright waste Nigeria are out of school and State Governor, Dr. Charles recently in Ikoyi, Lagos. of time’, for obvious reasons. have become a major threat to Hushpuppi: Probe Panel on Akinola, has described as Akinola, who centred the I have always found this sort our collective safety. Of course, disturbing the lack of interest in thesis of his discussion from of response very disturbing. we do not need a prophet to Kyari Submits Report to IG politics and public sector among a cynicism that exists among “I say this because, it does tell us that this is a time bomb The Inspector-General of Police, Criminal Investigations Department, the elites in the country, despite many elites, who consider a appear that many of us do not waiting to explode. “Right now, Usman Baba, was yesterday said Joseph Egbunike. It was gathered the rising cases of insecurity venture into the public sector seem to have an idea of what the unemployment rate is at to have received the report of that the panel submitted its findings and unemployment in Nigeria. as anathema, noted that: “Our really is at stake if our bright least 33.3 per cent, that is half of Special Investigation Panel(SIP) to the IG yesterday. He made the remark while brightest minds are apathetic minds are apathetic about the labour force is unemployed set up to probe the former Head, Following investigations into delivering a speech at the about governance.” governance. or underemployed. Intelligence Response Team, Hushpuppi activities, the FBI Deputy Police Commissioner alleged that Kyari detained Abba Kyari. The panel was set Chibuzor at the behest of Buhari Congratulates Zambia’s President-elect, Hichilema up two weeks ago to probe Kyari Hushpuppi for one month to Deji Elumoye in Abuja by his Media Adviser, Femi the power of the people to of all lovers of democracy. for his alleged involvement in a enable the latter and his co- Adesina, hailed Zambians, who freely elect their leaders. Highlighting the close and $1.1 million Internet fraud linked conspirators to fleece their Qatari President Muhammadu Buhari came out in their numbers President Buhari commended historic relationship between to Instagram influencer, Abbas victim of over $1m. has congratulated the President- to exercise their civic rights, the outgoing President Edgar Nigeria and Zambia, Buhari Ramon, also known as Hushpuppi As a result, the IG on August elect of Zambia, Hakainde voting for candidates of their Lungu for accepting the said he looked forward to and four others. 1, recommended the suspension Hichilema, on his victory in choice. outcome of the election and working very closely with The four-man panel is headed of the Kyari to the Police Service the presidential election held This, he said, showed that a peaceful transfer of power, the Zambian president-elect by the Deputy Inspector -General Commission, with effect from on August 12, 2021.Buhari, in the prospect of a united, stable noting that such patriotic for the peace, development and of Police in charge of the Force July 31. a statement issued yesterday and prosperous Africa lies in disposition deserves the praise prosperity of both countries. TUESDAY AUGUST 17, 2021 • THISDAY 69 70 TUESDAY, 
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THISDAY Group Sports Editor: Duro Ikhazuagbe Email: [email protected] TUESDAYSPORTS 0811 181 3083 SMS ONLY

Ebi Super Eagles players will be hoping for a favourable AFCON 2021 draw today in Yaounde, Cameroon Eagles’ AFCON 2021 Opponents to Emerge at Tonight’s Draw in Yaounde Tipped to draw Egypt, Cape Verde, Comoros Femi Solaja out the likelihood of the Eagles Eagles). and 6th February 2022, with in Cameroon 2021 will be using camping programme. clashing with the Pharaohs, the The draw ceremony is to the qualifying series of the 2022 the FIFA World Cup Qatar Ghana, who have four titles After the initial postponement Blue Sharks and surprise packets formally kick-starts preparations FIFA World Cup finals yet to be 2022 qualifiers as preparatory from the AFCON but have not occasioned by protocol reasons, Coelacanths. for all teams concerned. However, concluded before the AFCON. sessions, with six tough games won the trophy in the last 39 the much awaited draw ceremony Being grouped in Pot 1 the disruption caused by the The knockout rounds for the to negotiate between September years, are in Pot 2 alongside of AFCON 2021 tournament together means the Eagles, who global coronavirus pandemic FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 holds and November, and only the last Egypt, 2015 champions Cote would be staged this evening picked up the bronze medals means the AFCON 2021 is now in March 2022. week of December and the first d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso, Mali with Nigeria’s Super Eagles in at the last edition in Egypt two to hold between 9th January Most of the teams involved week of January open for any and Guinea. Pot 1 tipped to face seven-time years ago, will avoid Cameroon’s winners Egypt (Pot 2), 2022 Indomitable Lions (five-time FIFA World Cup foes Cape champions), Senegal’s Lions Verde (Pot 3) and the gritty of the Teranga (Africa’s number Aisha Buhari Cup Feels Like Women AFCON, Says Onome Ebi and gutsy Comoros team that one-ranked team), Tunisia (2004 recently achieved a first-ever champions and Africa’s number Super Falcons defence stalwart, qualifying campaign. qualifying games coming up will be playing against them qualification for the Africa Cup two-ranked team), Cup holders Onome Ebi, has said that the Ebi, star player for FC Minsk in October. again in the qualifier. I think of Nations (Pot 4). Algeria (now ranked number Aisha Buhari Invitational of Belarus, who is excited about Nine-time African champions that will really help in preparing At the ceremony scheduled to three in Africa) and 1976 winners Women's Tournament is a good the tournament said it will help Nigeria will tango with Ghana, the team because the qualifying hold at the le Palais des Congrés Morocco (now ranked fourth in initiative ahead of the Women the six nations taking part in it to Cameroon, Mali, South Africa games will be in October. So, in Yaoundé, Cameroon tonight, Africa, a step above the Super Africa Cup of Nations (AWCON) prepare ahead of their AWCON and Morocco for the glittering this tournament in September three-time champions Nigeria’s trophy at the tournament will help all the teams to prepare Super Eagles are among the scheduled for between well in their qualifying games six teams seeded among the September 13th and 21st, 2021. against their opponents. contesting 24 teams. NLO Coach Banned Two Years "With regards to the Dr. "Hopefully, Nigeria will All teams in the same pot are Aisha Buhari Cup, I see the come out great and emerge to avoid one another but they competition as a good one champions because we have could be drawn against any in for Attempts to Fix Match because it will help most of the really been working, training the other pots, so no one can rule Nigeria’s lower tier National v Bussdor FC match played on game into disrepute. teams participating in it ahead and preparing ourselves, trying League One (NLO) was in 15th March, 2021 at University The lower league body of the Women Africa Cup of to come together. And we are the news for the wrong reason of Calabar Stadium, Cross River therefore invoked the relevant Nations. As we all know that grateful to our Coach because he THE POTS: again yesterday following the State was brought before the rules of the tournament that the last AWCON did not hold has been working hard to ensure banning of Coach Remmy NLO secretariat which in turn provided a two-year ban for due to the coronavirus, I believe that the team come together to Pot 1: Cameroon, Senegal, Tunisia, Amadi of Cofine FC for two prompted the setting up of a such offenders. this Aisha Buhari Cup is going have games. We have played in Algeria, Morocco, Nigeria years over allegations of attempts committee to look into the issue. The club, Cofine FC, was also to help the teams by bringing tournaments in Turkey and USA. to manipulate a game in the In a circular dated March 15, not spared as it was slammed African teams to play against And coming to play this coming Pot 2: Egypt, Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Calabar Zone. and addressed to the concerned with a fine of N500,000 while themselves. tournament is really good one Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea The Disciplinary Committee of parties, and host FA, the NLO all results of their matches in "We just see it like we are for the players.” the Nigeria Football Federation Secretariat acknowledged the the ongoing 2021 NLO season playing the Africa Cup Nations The 38-year-old, who is the Pot 3: Cape Verde, Gabon, yesterday found Amadi guilty receipt of the report and decision were cancelled. again because I see it that it's first African footballer to play in Mauritania, Zimbabwe, as charged and has been thrown of the panel. NLO also warned clubs to the same teams that will likely five FIFA World Cup finals, is Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone out of all football related activities The NLO stated that the desist from desperate moves to be playing in the AWCON that grateful to the Nigeria Football in the country for the next two allegations of match fixing qualify for promotion, insisting will play in this competition. I Federation (NFF) for getting the Pot 4: Malawi, Sudan, Comoros, years. against Coach Remmy Amadi that it would not tolerate any am really excited and happy that team into different tournaments Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Allegations of attempts to of Cofine FC was ‘very grievous act of misconduct before, during we are going to play against a as preparation for their AWCON The Gambia fix Cofine FC of Rivers State offence,’ which can bring the and after every game. team like Ghana because we qualifying race. TUESDAY, 
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THISDAY 71 SPORTS Laporta: £1.15bn Debt Burden Weighing Down Barcelona Barcelona President, Joan Laporta, Pique agreed to an eleventh-hour that Barcelona currently has a net He also accused Bartomeu of from Neymar, in salaries and have agreed reductions. Others has said that the club is in €1.35 pay cut before his side’s La Liga worth of negative €451million. conning the club’s board members amortisations. The transfer policy are contemplating a deferral or billion (about £1.15billion) worth opener against Real Sociedad on Laporta blamed the dire and reserved special criticism for of the club was just bad.” a lowering of their bonuses. of debt, a €200m increase from Sunday. situation on former President his handling of the funds they Although the situation is dire, We are looking for solutions, the figure that was reported in Barça won that game 4-2 Josep Maria Bartomeu’s door. received from selling Neymar Laporta said he was hopeful to restructure it all, the whole January. with Pique netting the opener, Bartomeu recently penned a to Paris Saint-Germain for over of digging the club out of their squad,” he said. Barça's horrific off-fieldironically nodding home Depay’s letter to his successors explaining £200million. financial hole. “The squad already reduced problems have been common free kick - who would not have the decisions he took. Laporta “I would remind Bartomeu of He revealed his confidence salaries due to Coronavirus. Now, knowledge for some time. Years even been playing if not for his dismissed it as “full of lies”. all the damage the Neymar deal that Sergi Roberto, Jordi Alba we ask for a second effort, first of overspending on wages and sacrifice. “Previous board just ignored did to Barça's image. There were and Sergio Aguero would agree response is surprise as nobody transfer fees have finally caught Off the pitch, the bad news financial controls. Just like in four open cases with Neymar, we to wage cuts similar to Pique’s likes to lower their salary. But up with the club, resulting in continued on Monday with Barçagate, other invoices were thought best for Barça's interests and hinted that further cuts to given the situation they are Lionel Messi being unable to Laporta revealing the full extent 'split up' to avoid having to to settle and avoid more risks." the playing budget would be starting to understand and we extend his contract this summer. of the club’s financial problems go through oversight as they It’s not true that the club’s required. trust we can resolve it as soon New signings Memphis Depay in a press conference. As well as should have. Including Espai salary bill exploded to compete “Players have a fixed salary as possible with the captains, and Eric Garcia were also only confirming that debt levels had Barça (Camp Nou rebuild),” with the state-owned clubs. It and bonuses for performance then other players,” concludes able to be registered after Gerard risen further, he also admitted he said (via Dermot Corrigan). was mis-spending the €222m and trophies. Some like Pique Laporta.

Joan Laporta…Barcelona President lamenting the cash crunch facing the Catalan club at a press briefing …yesterday Just Like Tokyo 2020, Paralympic Games to Hold Without Fans Spectators will not be allowed to 50% capacity. at the Tokyo Paralympic Games "We sincerely apologise to because of the city's ongoing all ticket buyers who were struggle with coronavirus, looking forward to watching organisers announced yesterday. the Games at the venues," the The Japanese government statement continued. has proposed expanding "We hope that you Tottenham Hotspur players celebrating Son Hueng-min goal in the 1-0 defeat of the Premier League defending champions and extending the country's understand that these measures Manchester City...on Sunday state of emergency, with the are unavoidable and being Paralympics beginning on 24 implemented in order to August. prevent the spread of infection. 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That Feeling, That's BetKing.” said in a statement. athletes arrived in Kisarazu, BetKing has unveiled its new win that could change their lives Former Super Eagles Captain Okocha added that he is As well as stadiums, fans Japan, the venue of their brand identity along with its partially or wholly,” he said. and BetKing Brand Ambassador, always delighted by the trust were also requested not to training camp before departing distinctive brand positioning, Ukanwoke hinted that the Austin ‘Jay-Jay’ Okocha, de- Nigerians repose in the BetK- attend road events. for Tokyo on Sunday. encapsulated in the new strapline brand re-launch is the next stage scribed his three-year-old journey ing brand and inspired by its Organisers confirmedNigeria is to participate of the company's evolution and with BetKing as a beautiful and transparency and impactful spectators would not be allowed in four events at the 2020 “That Feeling, That’s BetKing”. at events in Tokyo, Saitama, Paralympic Games in Tokyo. Speaking at a media briefing that its services would now go purposeful partnership. corporate social responsibility Chiba and Shizuoka because of The events include; Powerlifting, in Lagos yesterday, the Managing beyond sports betting. “In the last three years, we initiatives. infection rates in those regions. Para-Athletics, Para-Table Tennis Director, KingMakers, Gossy He further explained that the have created a household name, "BetKing stands out because of School children will still be and Para Rowing. Ukanwoke, disclosed that the company is becoming a sports/ enabled the provision of jobs its integrity and access to seam- allowed to attend at the request Nigeria had her most company had never been just entertainment services provider to thousands of Nigerians and less transactions by customers. of local authorities or school successful outing at the a sports betting company. to its customers beyond just shared memorable triumphs with It is also creating opportunities administrators. Paralympic Games in Rio 2016, “BetKing speaks about lead- sports betting. He added that our customers. for agents and is helping reduce Fans were barred from finishing as Africa's best team ing, being in charge, taking the event was the first step in “I have experienced the pas- unemployment in Nigeria," he venues in the capital for the and 17th overall in the world control – We are reminding a series of enhancements to the sion of the BetKing team – a noted. Olympics, with events held in on the medals table with 8 gold, people that they have the BetKing offering in Nigeria that group of talented individuals Also speaking, the Director- some other regions allowed up 2 silver and 2 bronze medals. power to change their path by would unfold over the coming who are working to the games General, National Lottery Regu- allowing entrepreneurs to invest months. closer to Africans. That's what lation Commission (NLRC), Mr. in a shop, hire their cashiers, The Managing Director af- we stand for – promoting sports Lanre Gbajabiamila, expressed and consequently better their firmed BetKing's commitment to – delivering entertainment - delight at BetKing's growth, Guardiola Laments City's community. its corporate social responsibili- developing our communities stating that the rebranding was Inefficiency in Defeat at Spurs “On the other side, we are ties, stating it would continue –facilitating commerce – helping a good development. Manchester City Manager Pep without scoring, including three Guardiola has said that his side in the Premier League. were not clinical enough in their "In general, we showed a FirstBank Sponsored OBJ Golf Tournament Holes out in Abeokuta 1-0 defeat at Tottenham Hotspur good spirit and good intention It was a fun-filled weekend 2021 edition. Tolu Olugbemi who the country. Hard Court (Tennis), Sardauna on Sunday but insisted he was and we arrived in the final third for members of Abeokuta Golf returned 70-net score by 1-shot “I want to show my appreciation Northern Durbar Horse Racing "delighted" with the attacking many times, but we could not Club when the famed FirstBank was the runners up. to Abeokuta Golf Club and Competition in Kano, Basketball options in his squad. be clinical enough. Son scores of Nigeria Limited sponsored OBJ Harrison Karuiku came in FirstBank of Nigeria Limited for and Athletics. A second-half goal from Son and we lose," Guardiola said. Golf Tournament made an exciting third position after 71-net score keeping faith and maintaining this Speaking earlier, Tunde Heung-min meant the reigning "We have the same players return to the club after it was beating the fourth placed O. event and for keeping it on the Owolabi, who represented the Premier League champions as last season. I'm so delighted skipped in 2020 following the Olayinka who also signed for nation’s golf calendar,” Obasanjo Group Managing Director of City fell to a surprise defeat with the same guys who scored Covid-19 pandemic. 71 on count-back. noted with appreciation. FirstBank, Adesola Adeduntan as they began the defence of a lot of goals. We are good The 2021 edition, which attracted Happy with FirstBank’s He therefore urged the sponsor at the event, pledged FirstBank’s their crown with an under-par enough to create chances and golfers from across the country, commitment to the tournament, not to waiver, stressing that it commitment to sponsorship of display. score goals - we will do it." produced Olajide Owolabi as former President Olusegun should continue to sponsor the the annual tournament. City and Guardiola have "We are one against one a lot. champion. Owolabi whose score Obasanjo commended the financial tournament the same way it has The OBJ Golf Tournament now lost all four of their games But in the end we could not of 68-net earned him victory in institution for its roles in promoting been bankrolling the Lagos Open, debuted in 2015 and has been at Tottenham's new stadium dribble, shoot and score goals. 2019, carded 69-net score to win the golf and sports in general across Kaduna Polo, (Georgian Cup), Dala played consistently ever since. T RU N Tuesday August 17, 2021TH & REASO Price: N250 MISSILE PANDEF to Buhari “This assent, by President Buhari, simply speaks to the repugnant attitude of disregard, propelled by arrogance, disdain and contempt with which issues concerning the Niger Delta Region are treated, particularly, by the present administration.” ––PANDEF fuming over the assent to the PIB and ignoring protests against the 3% by the Niger Delta communities TUESDAY WITH REUBENABATI [email protected] Echoes from Afghanistan ne of the first things I picked up very But after the initial denial that this is not another priorities and it would not matter to the average early in this business of public affairs Saigon in South Vietnam, 1975, it is interesting to American taxpayer whether you sink or float. analysis is something senior colleagues see American diplomats eating their own words. And it is at this point that the prompt intervention referred to as Afghanistanism. If Anthony Blinken, the US Secretary of State, and by Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari becomes you were told a column, story or other Washington policy wonks, have now come relevant. In an article published in the Financial Times Oessay, you had submitted for publication reeked to the realisation that this is a failed mission for the of London, the same day Kabul fell to the Taliban, of Afghanistanism, it was clearly a subtle kind of United States as was similarly the case in Vietnam, Buhari placed his fingers rightly on the threat that condemnation. It meant dabbling into a remote Sudan, Somalia, Yemen, Sudan, Iraq, and Libya. the fall of Kabul poses to Africa. He referred to subject that was not of immediate consequence America did not need to stay in Afghanistan Africa as “the new frontline of global militancy” whereas you could have chosen a better topic of forever. It is simple and direct logic that the Afghans and called for global action to fight terrorism. He greater local value and relevance. In other words, would have to clean up their own mess, at some says: “We must not complacently assume that the phrase “Afghanistanism”, was not a compliment. point, but the leaders of Afghanistan failed to govern military means alone can defeat the terrorists. If It was a label for absent-mindedness, an obsession properly, and America’s hasty withdrawal plan was a Afghanistan has taught a lesson, it is that although with far-away places and events, sounding eloquent mistake. America misread the politics of Afghanistan. sheer force can blunt terror, its removal can cause about other people’s issues while overlooking the It underestimated the Taliban. It also overestimated the threat to return.” Indeed, there are many lessons same problems at one’s doorstep. Afghanistanism the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces to learn from the Afghan debacle. He would go on was thus projected as a perfect exemplification of (ANDSF). The US spent loads of dollars training subsequently to say that “a lack of hope is the chief parachute journalism. But here we are, at this time, what became known as the Afghan Special Forces. It recruiting sergeant for the continent’s new brand in the past two weeks, and in the past few days, was thought that they had received enough training of terrorism.” This commentary was on point in Afghanistanism is now suddenly no longer a flight to be able to secure their own country against the every regard. I am tempted to suspect they just of fancy. It has become the symbol and the very Afghan President Ashraf Ghani terrorists. But that was pure fiction. The ANDSF recruited someone with a sharp brain into the Nigerian definition of much that is wrong with our world. It lacked real capability. The Forces were mismanaged Presidency. When the President returned from the is the news of the moment, not so distant anymore, assassinated by the al-Qaeda, which by then had by the local authorities. When the Taliban launched UK, we were told he and his delegation would go but a source of worry for the entire world. I guess it grown in strength and scope. As it happened, later, an onslaught, the ghost army that the US and other into isolation in line with official regulations. And is now possible to indulge in Afghanistanism without on September 9, 2001, terrorists struck in the United nations thought they had set up took to its heels. then from isolation, the President has just signed the being accused of an idle journey to distant places. States, in the tragedy now known as 9/11. The The disaster that has now occurred was long in Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) into law. I digress. The Over the weekend, Afghanistan imploded. Its US and its allies promptly launched a retaliatory coming. It was a disaster foretold. In February 2020, big point about Afghanistan is the need to realise President, Ashraf Ghani abandoned the Presidential offensive: Operation Enduring Freedom, and later, the US struck an agreement with the Taliban in its implications for the global war against terror, Palace and fled towards the direction of Tajikistan. Operation Freedom’s Sentinel against the Al-Qaeda. Doha. That has failed too, in part because even the US Foreign policy, and the balance of power in The Vice President went in another direction. Security The Taliban and its totalitarian government fell in Afghan leaders were excluded from it. the world. Professor Bolaji Akinyemi on Arise TV, agents including the police and the military dropped the face of this offensive and hence resorted to a The regional warlords who both the US and the analysing the dilemma that the world faces spoke their weapons and fled too. Ordinary citizens headed guerrilla warfare against the West and the government Afghan government thought would resist the Taliban about the “clash of civilizations” (an apt reference towards every available border to become refugees installed by the US in Afghanistan. Over 2, 400 US did not raise a finger as The Taliban overran the to Samuel P. Huntington) and the likely emergence in neighbouring countries. The United States which soldiers have died in the war against the Taliban. provinces all the way to the Capital. The US thought of “a new world order.” But is Africa prepared? had been involved in the politics of Afghanistan Over 20, 000 were wounded. Washington has spent Pakistan would help. Instead, Pakistan became a The failure of US policy in Afghanistan has since 1999 is also on the run out of the country, as over a trillion dollars. The British have also lost sanctuary for the Taliban. The US may well claim occurred under the watch of President Joe Biden, it shuts down its embassy in Kabul, burning down over 450 soldiers to the battle. But even with the in the end that in 20 years it helped to reduce the even if it is an inherited crisis. Will it affect his sensitive documents, and rushing to airlift its citizens negotiations over the years, and America’s training scope of terror and the growth of terrorism in the rating? Is the average American bothered about out of Afghanistan. The British, and NATO soldiers of Afghan soldiers to keep the Taliban at bay, the world, but the failure in Afghanistan, spanning whatever happens to the people of Afghanistan? who had both supported the US in Afghanistan, intervention in Afghanistan by the US and NATO about four US administrations, looks ironically as What does the future portend for Afghanistan? The are also on the run. It is an unfolding chaos and has proved futile and unwinnable. With the return a reinforcement of terrorism. The return of the Taliban international community would probably make the tragedy, the exact end of which no one knows, and of the Taliban to Kabul, the war against terror in is bound to embolden terrorist groups across the usual noise about the need to protect human rights that is precisely what makes all of this a sad day Afghanistan has proven to be a colossal failure. America world. It will grant them confidence and hope that and refugees and the rule of law, and perhaps the for the rest of the world. The fate of the people of has been humiliated. What we are witnessing is two they can also achieve the same kind of triumph. UN Security Council would threaten to impose Afghanistan hangs in the balance. Their future is decades of bad judgment and miscalculations. In July, Twenty years later, the US may have lost so much sanctions, but in the end, it is only the Afghans uncertain. Their government has collapsed. A bunch President Joe Biden boasted that Kabul would not but it is the entire world that is at risk. The thinking that can determine their own future. There is no way of radical extremists, terrorists, ideologues and tribal fall and the day would not come when the Taliban that the US and its allies can save humanity, or that the Taliban can overrun Afghanistan, chase away warlords, known as the Taliban, are now in charge. will overrun the country. It took the Taliban just ten any country at all can rely on the omnipresence or a sitting government and seize power without the They have taken over the Presidential palace and days to overrun the entire country. America and its the “indispensability” of the United States has been people’s tacit compliance. America must learn not the entire country. In the 1990s, they were in charge allies were overwhelmed. The now deposed Afghan exposed as one of the biggest lies of the century. to dictate ideological choices to others, in a diverse of the country. The people of Afghanistan have just government and the US have been trading blames. When it suits its purpose, the US will review its own and complicated world. been taken back to the 20th Century. That country has turned full cycle to the age of fundamentalism, the oppression of women, disdain for education and abuse of human rights. Tragic. The crisis in Afghanistan speaks to the failure of American diplomacy and specifically of US foreign Hichilema: Zambia Shall Be Free policy. Diplomatic relations between the United s a secondary student, one of the that was concluded on August 12 as an attempt by went into recession. Ahead of the August 12 States and Afghanistan dates back to 1935. In the compulsory literature texts that my Zambians to take back their country. They made elections, he deployed the military to intimidate course of that relationship, the United States was set read for the West African School a powerful statement about people power. They the opposition. He shut down the internet. He responsible for setting up in that axis, a bunch of Certificate Examination (WASCE) resolved that Zambians deserve to be free from threatened to jail Hakainde Hichilema, Presidential extremists known as the Mujahideen as part of the was a book titled Zambia Shall Be the grips of corruption, nepotism, neo-colonialism candidate of the main opposition party, the United Cold War with the Soviet Union and China, two FreeA by Kenneth Kaunda. Our teacher had a and the forces of retrogression. The just-concluded Party for National Development (UPND). In 2016, countries with which Afghanistan shares borders. The funny way of pronouncing Zambia. He would parliamentary and presidential elections in Zambia Hichilema lost the Presidential contest to Lungu Mujahideen would later become the Taliban. They turn Zambia into “Zam-bi-u Shar-lll -Be Friii” offer an indication that the people’s voices and by a mere 100, 000 votes. gained control of Afghanistan. If America thought by Kerr-nnerthi- Kar uuun dar”. Till today, some choice should matter most in a democratic process. Last week, and as announced yesterday by the it was exporting its Western style democracy to of my old classmates in that literature class still It was a referendum on President Edgar Lungu’s Zambian Electoral Commission, this time around, Afghanistan, a majorly Muslim country with strong refer to Zambia as “Zam-bi-u”. Fond memories languid leadership. When Lungu succeeded Lungu lost to Hichilema, 1.8 million votes (39%) to ethnic cleavages, and that the people would adopt of those old days. Kenneth Kaunda, the author Michael Sata in 2015, he promised to put an 2.8 million votes (59%). The defeated incumbent American ideology, it was grossly mistaken. The of that literature text, in which he documented end to nepotism and inefficiency. He was hailed President is now saying the election was not “free Muslims of Afghanistan were not willing to abandon the independence struggle in his country, died as a reformist but he ended up as a hypocrite. As and fair” and that his supporters were intimidated. their religious and ideological beliefs, and many recently at 97. He was Zambia’s President from recently as last month, when he went to London The same Lungu is condemning an election that resented the Western way of life. It did not take long 1964 – 1991. There have been six Presidents in for a Global Education Summit, he had three he controlled by every means possible. Zambia has before Afghanistan became the home of religious Zambia since 1964. The seventh was elected this members of his immediate family in his entourage a registered voter population of 7 million out of a fanaticism and the headquarters of the Al Qaeda. past weekend, August 12, and it was the third time and he shamelessly tried to defend himself. He total population of 19 million citizens. Voter turn-out Matters later took a turn for the worse when the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 1267 power has shifted peacefully from a ruling party to even forced an amendment of the Constitution was 70% on election day, mostly youths who have which created the al-Qaeda and Taliban Sanctions the opposition since independence. It is unfortunate to allow him have a third term in office. He is now sent a strong and clear message that Lungu has Committee, and the classification of both groups as that Zambia like other African countries gained flag leader of a Pentecostal Assembly with a Ph. D overstayed his welcome. Hichilema, 59, has his job terrorist groups with sanctions over their funding, independence from colonial rule, but the dream in Theology but he ran Zambia like the chief cut out for him: to ensure the freedom of Zambia travel and activities. of concrete freedom articulated by Kaunda and priest of a local cult. He readily boasts about the from the forces of neo-colonialism, economic failure, Osama Bin Laden in the face of this rose to the other African leaders has not yet been realised. infrastructure that he has provided, but Lungu nepotism, cronyism, incompetence, COVID-19, and top. In 2001, Ahmad Massoud, commander of the Zambia in particular has been unfortunate. Rich sold the soul of Zambia’s commodity sector to elite stupidity. Above all, he must learn from the Northern Alliance, an anti-Taliban coalition was in copper but poor in leadership. I see the election the Chinese. He incurred debts. The country mistakes of Edgar Lungu. 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