The Nation Newspaper

Tag: 2017

  • Getting it right in 2017

    Getting it right in 2017

    For local carriers, 2016 was tough. They contended with shortage of aviation fuel and scarcity of foreign exchange, among others. Will business be better this year? KELVIN OSA-OKUNBOR writes that the Federal Government will need to do more to help the industry.

    wHAT lies ahead in the aviation industry in 2017? Nigerians who are asking this question need not look further.

    Reason: the government has given its nod for the airports’ security architecture overhaul.

    Following the presidential approval last week, airport security workers are now to be trained to use arms like their counterparts in the United States.

    Expectedly, the Ministries of Aviation and Interior are already working on a template for the training of airport security workers to enable them function like their colleagues in the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

     

    Use of arms at airports

     

    If all goes well, the airport security workers are to be trained on the use of K-9 dogs, handcuffs, batons and light weapons.

    This measure, experts said, had become imperative because of new threats to airports security globally.

    But Selective Securities Limited Managing Director, Ayo Obilana, said the government should go beyond security workers’training in  arms handling.

    He said, for example, if the agency takes charge of access control at the airport, it would boost harmony in the execution of the national airport security programme.

    This vital issue, Obilana said, should form the major assignment of the government in the year.

    The Nigerian Air Force, Nigerian Police, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Aviation Security Personnel (AVSEC), Department of State Security (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), National Security Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and others man various screening points at airports.

    Aside airports security, stakeholders are worried over how the government intends to deliver its proposed private sector-driven national airline in the year and how it intends to navigate around its ambitious airports concession programme.

    These proposals are causing anxiety in the sector, over what modality the government intends to adopt for its execution.

    The anxiety, industry watchers said, was predicated on controversies surrounding the project.

     

    Closure of Abuja Airport for repairs

     

    Though aviation has courted scandals and controversies in the last few years, experts are worried that the year may have started on similar note, following concerns being expressed by some foreign carriers  over plans to use Kaduna Airport as an alternate aerodrome, while the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, is closed for runway repairs in March.

    The government said the Abuja Airport would be closed for six weeks to enable it fix the dilapidated runway.

    As one of the developments to watch in 2017, experts are worried that it will take the government such long time to address a fundamental safety matter.

    According to the Minister of State, Aviation, Hadi Sirika, the Abuja Airport runway was designed in 1982 to last for 20 years.

    The runway, Sirika said, has lasted 34 years. He said further use of the runway could expose it to collapse.

    The closure of the Abuja Airport, experts said, would have negative effects on passengers, airline operators, travel agents, hoteliers, car hire an other service providers.

    Fixing the Abuja Airport runway, experts said, could be one of the major developments that would shape activities in the sector in the year, adding that the airport is the second busiest airport in the country’s political capital.

    Apart from the huge cost required by carriers to mobilise men and materials to Kaduna for scheduled flights, attendant challenges bordering on the state of the terminal, security and availability of aviation fuel remain key areas to watch in 2017.

    Though Sirika said a decision had not been taken on the matter, Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) Chairman, Captain Nogie Meggison has proposed partial closure.

    In the year, stakeholders expect the government to consider seriously the issue of airport perimeter and security fencing in line with Annex 17 of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

    If the government adopts this suggestion, it will reduce the recurrence of stowaways and other unlawful acts, which could cause unlawful interference to civil aviation.

     

    Airport perimeter and security fencing

    According to a security expert, and member, Aviation Roundtable, Group Captain John Ojikutu (rtd), airport perimeter and security fencing should be given priority by the government in the year.

    He said compliance with Annex 17 is a global requirement that member-states of ICAO, including Nigeria, must adhere to.

    Besides airport perimeter fencing, experts said, the government should focus on poor radio communication in the airspace to address  the serious gap, leading to what many pilots  now describe as “ blind spots“.

     

    Overhaul of obselete equipment

     

    Towards this end, they canvass the overhaul of obsolete air navigation equipment managed by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).

    These include the upgrade of the Total Radar Coverage of Nigeria (TRACON) components, switch of fixed telecom equipment to Aeronautical Information System (AIS) automation.

    For optimal utilisation of equipment to be acquired by the airspace agency, experts said, recruitment of aeronautical professionals, including air traffic controllers and engineers, would help improve service delivery.

    Significantly, the government should embark on an aggressive debt recovery drive to enable agencies have enough funds to carry out ambitious projects.

    Stakeholders look forward to what will become of the airports remodeling projects. They said work should resume at the terminals to meet the deadlines set for their completion.

     

    Completion of terminals

    Specifically, the experts are asking if the four international airport terminals built by the Chinese Civil Engineering Construction Company (CCECC), with the $500 million loan secured from the Chinese Import-Export Bank, will be completed.

    The terminals are at various stages of completion in Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Port Harcourt.

    It is unkown when the international airport in Enugu and the airport  terminal in Bayelsa will be completed.

     

    Better service delivery

    by carriers

     

    In the year, stakeholders expect improvement in flight services from both local and foreign carriers.

    But, some passengers have expressed worry over the failure of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to oversee Arik Air for its many infractions against passengers.

    Passengers expect Arik Air to put up a good showing as the carrier by keeping to its flights schedule. This, they believed, would reduce frequent fracas between passengers and its workers.

    Passengers are optimistic that Arik Air and other carriers on international routes will seek lasting solutions to incidents of short- landed luggage in the year, to make their travel experience seamless.

    Apart from short-landed luggage, passengers look forward to improvement in flight services.

     

    Competition among domestic carriers

     

    Competition among domestic carriers will be keener this year, as operators are designing business models, to not only keep them afloat, but also remain market leaders in the routes they operate into.

    Some carriers: Medview Airlines, Overland Airways and Air Peace, are likely to alter the stakes in the domestic scene as they up their games in venturing into new routes within and outside the country.

    According to Medview Airlines Managing Director, Muneer Bankole, service delivery will boost airlinespatronage in 2017, if operators do the right things.

     

    Return of Aero

     

    Meanwhile, experts said the return of Aero Airlines after  a four-month  closure last year is one of the major developments to watch out for in 2017.

    The possibility of getting its market share back as the oldest domestic carrier remains slim, as its managers grapple with its turnaround strategy.

    It is unclear if IRS Airlines, Afrijet Airlines, Discovery Air, and Chanchangi Airlines will bounce back this year, as the operating environment gets harsher.

    No thanks to high operating costs, oscillating price of aviation fuel, insurance premium and huge offshore cost for aircraft maintenance.

    Though still in the pipelines, stakeholders look forward to the setting up of an Aviation Leasing Company, which, according to Sirika, would make it convenient for airlines to acquire aircraft from lessors.

    Stakeholders expect the restructuring of aviation agencies to make them more efficient and effective.

     

    CEOs of agencies

    What will become the fate of chief executives of aviation agencies, including FAAN, NAMA, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigerian Meteorological Services (NIMET), Accident Investigation Bureau (AIB) and the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT) hangs in the balance in the year.

    Industry watchers predict a clean sweep of these chief executives, who appear to use archaic ideas on how to move their agencies forward.

    Sirika in an interview said. He said: “One has found out that agencies and parastatals within the industry have become such a burden that it is very difficult to operate them. Some of them are not operating or nearly all of them are not operating according to the act that established them or according to ICAO Standard and Recommended Practices.

    “There is an urgent need to reposition them to ensure that they comply with Act and also to comply with ICAO Standard and Recommended Practices. Some of them are bogus, over-staff, inefficient and the only way is to begin the process of reorganising and restructuring them for efficiency and better service delivery.”

    He said on his plans for 2017: “There are quite a number of project that we will do in 2017. I want to say this is the year we will flag-off the national carrier itself. This is also the year we will go into the concession of our four airports. This is also the year we will complete the transforming of Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria into an ICAO Centre of Excellence.

    “I am sure it is the same year all our aviation agencies will be streamlined and follow the Act that establishes them. This is also the year that Nigerian Civil Aviation Act will be reviewed and approved, hopefully, as new set of laws guiding our operations.

    “I know also that this year, by God’s grace, we will receive quite a number of our personnel that have gone on training to enrich themselves.

    “I will like to say that we will like to commence if we can hopefully, this year, begin the exportation of agricultural produce, especially perishable items through air transportation.”

    Whether Sirika will deliver on these promises lies in the belly of time.

  • What Reps would be doing in 2017

    What Reps would be doing in 2017

    The House of Representatives will be resuming from the Christmas Break this week for legislative activities. One does not have to be clairvoyant to guess correctly some of the activities that will take their time on resumption. But would things be done differently? Victor Oluwasegun and Dele Anofi take a look at possible events the lawmakers in the Green Chamber might concentrate on in 2017

    2017 BUDGET

    One of the priority assignments of the House would be the consideration of the 2017 Budget proposal laid before a joint sitting of the National Assembly on the 14th of December 2016 by President Muhammadu Buhari. Though the National Assembly has reiterated the fact that the lifespan of the 2016 budget, especially the capital component terminates in May, 2017, Nigerians expect that the lawmakers would put their axe to the grind and begin the consideration of the budget in earnest. Budget consideration takes a while and most times, or at least for the past three years, budget has been passed earliest March of the following financial year. Luckily, the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) has been adopted and passed by the House and all that remains is for the lawmakers to scrutinize the appropriation document. Now that the frayed nerves of All Progressives Congress (APC) members have been calmed over the Medium Term Expenditure Framework, the 2017 Budget and the proposed $29.9 billion foreign loans by the President, the coast seems clear for a robust consideration of the budget. So far, no one has shouted “padding!” and no petition has surfaced on the 2017 Budget…yet.

    However, no member has yet reacted to the statement by Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly (Senate), Sen. Ita Enang, that President Muhammadu Buhari may not assent to Appropriation Bill passed by the National Assembly unless the schedule of detail of the budget was duly passed on the floor of both chambers of the National Assembly. Remember the problem of details or no details threw a hefty spanner into the engine of the 2016 Budget causing it to be carried to and fro like a sick baby. Many controversies ensued. Members of the House also cried foul over the budget, saying they had no inkling of what was in the 2016 Budget details and alleging that some creative accounting may have taken place at the Appropriation Committee level.

    THE PETROLEUM INDUSTRY BILL (PIB)

    What exactly is the problem with the House of Representatives on the issue of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB)? Why has the Green Chamber refused to tackle this supposedly omnibus legislation meant to stimulate the oil sector? Don’t they like it?

    Recall that the Senate has passed its own version of the PIB through Second reading. The bill sponsored by Sen. Omotayo Alasoadura and 28 other Senators has as its objectives the creation of an efficient and effective governing institution with clear and separate roles for the petroleum industry.

    It also establishes a framework for the creation of commercially oriented and profit driven petroleum entities that ensures value addition and internationalisation of the industry. Besides, it provides transparency and accountability in the administration of Nigeria’s petroleum resources and fosters a conducive business environment for Petroleum Industry Operators. So, why is the House feigning lack of interest? Or is the House just waiting to concur? The House Leader, Femi Gbajabiamila, had said in December 2016 that the piece of legislation has not been forgotten.

    Well, its January and Nigerians are salivating as we wait for the Reps version of the bill.

    REPS AND INCREASE IN WORKERS’ SALARY

    So, the House is interested in increasing workers’ pay this year? The leader of the House, Femi Gbajabiamila said so.

    The lawmaker while speaking to reporters in December on the possibility of increasing the salary of workers, especially in the face of soaring inflation and biting recession, said salaries are presently “very low,” and that “something has to be done about it.”

    But Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, has said the Federal Government is not interested in increasing workers salaries. So, how do we reconcile the two statements?

    Gbajabiamila said: “The House is a House of the people and it will never back away from any move to increase salaries of workers. That is the reason we’re here…whether government or private workers, we’re here because of the people. And I for one and I believe a lot of our members, if and when the issue comes on the floor; I doubt if there will be a dissenting voice.

    “And we will begin to look at that viz-a-viz inflation, unemployment. Personally, I believe wages are too low as we stand and I think something has to be done about it. And I think the House will be proactive in making that move.”

    The Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, while speaking on the issue of the contentious minimum wage during the sectoral debates last year said: “Even if you increase the minimum wage to N100, 000 and the cost of living is N120,000, then you have done nothing. What we have to address is the cost of living and this government addresses cost of living because it is investing in the things that make cost of living very high for the people such as power cost, transport cost, people spending hours on bad roads; it is being addressed, that is a cost.

    So, is the Reps salary increase project still on course? This is especially since no single member faulted the minister on the floor when she spoke on May 26, 2016?

    EFFECTIVE OVERSIGHT

    Is oversight going to be effective this year? Many Nigerians hope so. There have been claims and allegations on why oversight by lawmakers cannot be effective. Quite a number of people have posited that the forum should not be an avenue for lawmakers to feather their own nests or request for favours from Ministries, Departments and Agencies. According to the allegations, which most Nigerians are familiar with oversight cannot be effective under such demeaning conditions. Should someone be over-sighting the lawmakers?

    DELAYED REPORT FROM COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS

    So, how many investigations are going on presently? Many! Okay, how many reports of the past probes do we have? That has always been the problem. Committees get assignments and that’s the last you hear of the issue. Not too long ago, the House decided that any committee that passes a threshold of 30 days without submitting its report on any assignment given will be removed from the assignment. Whatever happened to that decision? Hopefully, this decision would help the House receive reports from committees within the prescribed time span.

    CONSTITUTION AMENDMENT

    The House has always taken the lead in the effort of amending the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (As amended) so as to make it more effective and efficient. The Yusuff Lasun – headed Constitution Review Committee recently concluded a 3-day Retreat with members of the House leadership, consultants and other lawmakers in attendance. The committee is expected to continue the good work it is doing this year in order to conclude the review in a timely manner.

    BILLS AND MOTIONS

    As the House resumes, it is hoped that Bills and motions that address issues affecting Nigerians in areas of economy, education, security, health, power, infrastructural development and environment would be crafted just like that of the previous year.

    In 2016, a total of 551 Bills were introduced in the House for the first time, 64 of the bills were consolidated based on similarity of content. Five of the Bills were ‘negatived’ while only 179 passed for second reading and 47 Bills successfully passed. It remains to be seen if or not the House would surpass this achievement in 2017.

  • 2017: Chances, threats

    2017: Chances, threats

    Last year was quite challenging for Nigerians. Now, there seems to be light at the end of the tunnel. In this report, many observers express hope that the government will tackle the challenges this year. MUSA ODOSHIMOKHE reports. 

    There are a number of challenges that require the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration’s attention this year. These challenges include the economic recession, insecurity, unemployment, decayed infrastructure, power outage, poor refineries and coruption. Some stakeholders, who have suggested solutions to these problems, believe that the solutions are not too far to seek. They include: The Lagos State Labour Party Chairman,  Pastor Biodun Popoola; All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and former Minister of Information, Prince Tony Momoh; Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain and former Minister of Transport, Chief Ebenezer Babatope; former Kaduna State Governor, Alhaji Balarabe Musa; Afenifere chieftain, Yinka Odumakin; Lagos State  PDP chieftain Hajia Tolani Animasahun; Senior Special Assistant to President Buhari on Foreign Affairs, Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa; and Edo State APC chieftain, John Otaru.

    Popoola

    Popoola said the administration has lost the opportunity to make a difference in the last 18 months, with countless policy somersaults, budget padding, executive recklessness, political witch-hunting, selective approach and narrow mindedness to national issues. He said: “We had the Fulani herdsmen and their merciless killings, political turmoil, inconclusive elections and rigging, hunger, fiscal impropriety, corruption and battered economy etc.

    “The nation is more polarised than it has ever been in my lifetime, along tribal, religious and political divides. So, in 2017, it is expected that this government will allow peace, love and unity to reign. It should nullify tension and violence in the land by retracing its footsteps and putting in place socially connecting nexus of interdependence that will deepen our need for one another.

    “It should enlist and embrace potentials that can help in the holistic review and overhauling of all government service sectors and institution in other to open up possibilities of progress built on selfless service and accountability.

    “As at today, the Naira is N490 to a dollar because of the restrictive interpretation and policies of government as well as its manipulation of the Naira. So, the government should please allow the Naira to breathe the air of freedom, have a natural flow which can induce business growth and the empowerment of the real sector economy. Government should take a cue from USA President elect, Donald Trump who included a Nigerian in his economic team.

    “Therefore, the President should juggle or sack the present cabinet in other to bring in men and women of professional excellence from home and abroad, to help Nigeria come out of this deplorable climate of hopelessness, hunger and starvation, especially with several months of unpaid salaries by all levels of government.

    “He should imbibe the principle of “come let’s all reason together”. Hungry and poor Nigerians are tired of Mr. President’s countless reassurances that lack repository values and dividend of democracy.

    “Corruption is not just stealing or bribery. Therefore, the President should understand that the best way to fight corruption is not the way he has chosen to pursue the cause. With his style, Nigerians are getting more confused, if he is truly fighting corruption or his perceived enemies.

    “So, he needs to go back to the drawing board and stop wasting the poor tax payers’ money with sensational newspaper trials. He should set up powerful machinery bought into by the state governors and all government institutions. By so doing, correction will reach all fabrics of the society.  He also should know that for the corruption crusade to be successful, he needs to generate a framework that will include the traditional and religious leaders. If you ask me, I will ask him to invite all these thieves in high places for a function, out a gun on their head and ask them to return what have been ascertained as illegally acquired.

    “The government over time has turned elections held into a war zone of reoccurring decimal and atmosphere of violence, killings, manipulation and war. Till date many state governors are yet to conduct the local government election while the federal government has turned a blind eye to it.

    “No nation can transverse over and above the limitations placed again it growth except it has the full compliments of her political machinery and organs.”

    Momoh

    Prince Momoh said Nigerians will increasingly come to term with the President’s plans to ensure that the country gets back on course. He said the problems being encountered by Nigerians are not peculiar, as the same problems are being experienced globally.

    His words: “There is hunger in the land, just as there is hunger in the world, insurgency everywhere, including Nigeria. We have armed robbery and hostage takings; all these areas are what welcome President Buhari to office. In the New Year, we will witness increasing return to a secured terrain. There will be attempts at understanding Buhari approach to security and economic development. In securing the land, government has deployed all that is required. Land that is not secured cannot be developed in terms of infrastructure. Nigerians will now understand the ways of government better.

    “Buhari, a very quiet, not loud; despite what people say, he wants Nigerians to witness what is happening. He tried to speak the language that communicates and that is the language of food. So, only food communicates effectively to the hungry. In other words, if you want food, grow it. Nobody will lend you money anyway, because of the recession. There is no money to import food, so go and grow the food. Look at what is happening; go to the area where food is grown, they are celebrating. They are selling their food at a cost high enough for them to act like city people.

    “The governance style of Buhari is stretching out for people to know that it is not only political appointments that empower people, but going back to the farm. Look at the celebration this year, for the first time in many years, there is no fuel queue during Christmas. These things are quietly coming to stabilise life as we ought to be experiencing it. The people will understand it more during the year, because things will work better and change will dawn on many people in the New Year.”

     

    Babatope

    Babatope cautioned Buhari to ensure that he puts an end to hunger that is killing many Nigerians in 2017. He said: “He must arrest the situation; he must stop this callous situation in the country. Nigerians are dying of hunger and he must do something about this situation that has become hopeless. The expectation that heralded is coming to office has dwindled because of failed policies. There is urgent need to reverse the trend and he must rise to the occasion.

    “But, as far as the PDP is concerned, we are prepared to cooperate with the government, as long as it does what is right to the people. We are going to cooperate to ensure that the country is rid of recession, poverty, starvation and hunger.

    “If this path is not followed, we shall continue to constructively oppose the Buhari’s regime, until Nigerians see the need to show it the way out. The government must brace up, it must wake up to its campaign promises and do what is right, so that the people can be relieved of the worrisome hunger and starvation in the land.”

    Musa

    Musa said government cannot ignore what is happening in the country, particularly since it failed in the last 18 months to change the country’s socio-economic and political system. He said: “The country needs a reconstruction that will stem insecurity, provide employment opportunities to the youth who have become terrorists overnight. Judging from the performance of the government, it has not met the expectation of the people.

    “The situation has become so worrisome that the people cannot cope with the situation. We cannot continue with this unwholesome development, this rat race, survival of the fittest method entrenched by government policies. The situation we are in today calls for action from the government. The people are running out of patient.

    “There are fundamental flaws in respect of government policies. They need to be reviewed  in order to bail the country out of the economic recession. Government which has run out of idea will definitely be in the bad book of the people. Nigerians want to see security, food and shelter provided at very minimal cost. This regime must wake up in the New Year to tackle the problems it inherited and those it created because of policies that run in negation of what the people want.”

    Odumakin

    Odumakin said the government tried to combat terror and recorded some successes, by tackling Boko Haram insurgents and driving them away from territories they had held in the past.

    He added: “But, in terms of human rights abuse, I think the score card was not good enough. Look at the case of the Shiite, which the government has clamped down on.  If we look at the Southeast and the agitation for Biafra, there were cases of human rights abuses. The detention of the likes of Nnamdi Kanu and other leaders of those agitating for a change has not portrayed the regime in good light. The detention of Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd) is not good enough. Things like these are not expected in a democracy.

    “I think in the New Year, government should pay more attention in this regard by showing that sufficient attempts have been made to follow the rule of law. We must make sure that the citizen’s rights are obeyed. The government must promote peace by ensuring that due process is followed in dealing with the citizenry.

    “The government that failed to respect the rights of the people to express its inalienable rights is stoking the fire of instability, the government should be humane enough to engage aggrieved parties in dialogue and play the fatherly role expected of it. We expect that 2017 will provided the enabling environment for better human rights expression and provision of environment that will embrace dialogue.”

     

    Animasahun

    Animasahun said the government can do better in the new year by showing the understanding. She said: “The people deserve to be happy, because the previous years were full of pains. The people have been at the receiving end of government policies. They have faced untold hardship with their take home hardly taking them home.

    “The people want to see years of politics without bitterness; they want their votes to count during elections, they want to have electricity without tears. They want better housing policy that will make them become landlords and landladies.

    “They look forward to the crashing prices of essential commodities and building materials. Once the people can take care of their feeding, they will have less time to think of what government could not provide for them. As long as basic essentials are lacking in the homes of Nigerians, no matter what the government tries to do, it will not enjoy the support of the people. Women equally want more political participation in the years ahead. They should be given every support they deserve to climb to the top of their career.

    “Women help in building society because they care for the home front. If their impact at home is unattractive, it will reflect in the society. In view of this important role, government and politicians across party lines should reserve more position and remove encumbrances that will gag the rise of women in 2017.”

    Dabiri-Erewa

    Dabiri-Erewa is optimistic that government will do everything to protect its citizens in the New Year. She said: “Nigerians would be encouraged to tap into opportunities available at home. It is going to be a year of economic turn-around and bumper harvest considering the efforts made by government. Investors who are willing to invest in the country will be encouraged to do that.

    “The President has vowed to flush out terrorists and I believe he is not relenting in this direction. The country will be much safe for its citizens and foreigners alike in the New Year. To achieve this, all hands must be on the deck to stabilize the polity. The cooperation of the people is highly demanded and as long as everybody wakes up to his or her responsibilities, things are going work out well for the benefit of all. The citizens would be protected from internal and external threat and we therefore seek the cooperation of all.”

    Otaru 

    Otaru said there is no doubt that 2017 will usher progress. With particular reference to Edo State, he said Governor Godwin Obaseki will not let the people down. He said: “We thank God that despite the campaign of calumny by the PDP to hijack the state at all cost, they failed.

    “Since Edo is in alignment with the Federal Government, the state will witness another remarkable progress just like we have in the days of former Governor Adams Oshiomhole. The Federal budget for the year indicated that the people are the cornerstone of government plan. I am very confident that this year will be better.  Though, government may not necessarily increase the salary of workers, it should cushion the effect of recession by promoting agro allied economy.”

  • One Lagos Fiesta: Revellers welcome 2017 with pomp

    One Lagos Fiesta: Revellers welcome 2017 with pomp

    From the Eko Atlantic in Victoria Island to various capacity arenas in Ikorodu, Badagry, Epe and Agege, the funfair was the same with a long list of artistes performing to the delight of fans for free.

    But the climax of the events, tagged One Lagos Fiesta, created the loudest echo across the state with cross-over excitement, musical flare, energized dancing and bellows of fireworks with which the New Year was ushered in.

    Lagos has maintained this annual tradition that has endeared residents in the Lagos communities to contemporary entertainment during the Yuletide.

    The initiative introduced by the government of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode last year, was part of his Tourism, Hospitality, Entertainment/Arts Sports for Excellence (T.H.E.S.E) project.

    The event was supported by various companies, including indigenous telecommunications company, Globacom.

    At the dot of crossover, the city joined the rest of the world to say goodbye to 2016 and welcome the New Year with fanfare at the end of the 8-day long event. Governor Ambode who was live at the Eko Atlantic venue gave a message of hope for a better 2017, urging residents of the state to remain resolute in the face of challenges.

    The governor who was at the Badagry venue few days back promised to build a state-of-the-art cinema in Badagry within the next 18 months. The construction of the cinema, he said, would create employment opportunities for youths, while also boosting the tourism potential of the region.

    Artistes at the various shows who were drawn from different genres include the Mavin team, MI, Phyno, Reminisce, Lil Kesh, Seriki, Mayorkun, Adekunle Gold, Olu Maintain, Dremo, Niniola, Idris Abdulkareem, Kenny Saint Best, Azadus, Tony Tetuila, Jazzman Olofin, Klever Jay, Wale Thompson, Minjin, Lanre Teriba, Busola Oke (Eleyele), Oluwaseun Rantiola, CDQ, Dammy Krane and Konga among others.

  • Why 2017 will be tough

    SIR: At time like this, it is not very uncommon to see those who claim to be men of God making prophecies about national affairs. And experience has shown that much of those prophecies are pure guess-work or calculative predictions. As a person that has been following national occurrences very closely, I wish to make my own predictions.

    This is the year where this acclaimed economic recession will bite very harder. We have not experienced ‘anything’ in 2016 – that is just a tip of the iceberg. In 2017 Nigeria, death rate will increase. Many will die of minor infections and the government will appear very helpless. This 2017 is the year where many will be forced to drop out of school. This is the year that the rate of divorce we be very high; a year that will inflate the numbers of criminal activities.

    Year 2017 is going to be both very dense and fibrous. All of us, as a people, must tighten our belts to surmount this serious challenge. There is no way one can escape the lashes of the toughness – though it can be minimized – so, we must just ensure that we double our hustle.

    Additionally, we must not jubilate much as we begin this New Year. Well, maybe we can only jubilate for God’s protection over us. New Year will come and go but you will remain to face the consequences of a very reckless government. This New Year should be a time all of us get into the corner of our room and make sober reflections.

    It is a truism that the yesterday of a man will in a way or the other affects his tomorrow – same thing with Nigeria. As such, I have discovered that with the way this government has mishandled 2016, the country might never get out of this ‘peculiar mess’ it has found herself this New Year. This government has simply not taken any fruitful, convincing or responsible step which will signal an end to this harsh situation. And since ‘nothing’ has been done, the suffering and rigmarole will continue.

    This government is in dire need of leafs to detonate the effect of its intellectual arrogance; and that is what is killing us. Why can’t the government get other better economic advisers?

    We cannot just continue to deceive ourselves. We cannot continue to give ourselves baseless hopes like the other day when we hoped that these men will bring about change. Tell me today, where is the change?

    The New Year is here and we are obliged to live by it. We are left with no choice. But, the jubilation must not be too much since we are entering into a year of hardship and storm.

    • Festus Ogun,

     Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State.

  • Buhari to Nigerians: Change will manifest more in 2017

    Buhari to Nigerians: Change will manifest more in 2017

    President Muhammadu Buhari pledged yesterday that the change sought by the majority of Nigerian voters, who backed him in the 2015 election, will manifest more and be sustained in different sectors in the new year.
    He declared in his new year message that the current pains Nigerians are going through are temporary.
    His words: “On our part, in the past 20 months since our inauguration on May 29, 2015, we have focused our energies to turn around the economy, create jobs, fight corruption, and transform agriculture to replace oil and gas as a major revenue earner for the nation. I am encouraged that we are getting things right.
    “The agricultural revolution has begun. Farmers in different parts of the country are experiencing bumper harvests; states are getting into strategic partnership towards attaining self-sufficiency in rice, and the era of over-dependence on oil for foreign exchange revenues is gradually waning.
    “I am optimistic that the CHANGE we all yearned for in voting this administration to power in 2015 will manifest more and be sustained in different sectors, particularly agriculture, in 2017.” He added
    Noting that the administration’s economic recovery and growth plan in 2017 is anchored on optimizing the use of local content and empowering local businesses, he urged Nigerians to start patronizing “Made in Nigeria” goods.
    He said: “Like I said during the 2017 Budget presentation to the National Assembly, farmers, small and medium-sized manufacturers, agro-allied businesses, dressmakers, entertainers and technology start-ups, will remain the true drivers of our economic future.
    “They are the engine of our economic recovery and their needs underpin our Economic Recovery and Growth Plan.”
    On job creation, he said, that the administration will sustain existing programmes aimed at lifting great number of Nigerian youth out of poverty.
    Government, he added, will also create more opportunities for people to fend for themselves.
    The President insisted that the administration’s resolve to defeat corruption in the country remains unshaken.
    He said: “This fight, which will be guided by respect for the rule of law and due process, will not spare anybody or organ of government. It is a collective undertaking and resolve that must be seen to its logical conclusion in spite of certain distractions.
    “The fate of our country lies partly in the success of this campaign. It will be unthinkable on my part to allow the boat of this crucial campaign promise capsize mid-stream.” He said
    Thanking Nigerians for their support to the administration’s efforts towards transforming Nigeria, he said: “I assure you again that the current pains are temporary and will ease when the economic seeds in gestation begin to bloom to fruition. I urge you to continue to support this administration in its effort to transform Nigeria for the good of all.”
    The President again, congratulated the heroic and gallant efforts of Nigerian military and other security agencies on the successes recorded to rid the nation of terrorism.
    He said: “Following the successful capture of Sambisa Forest, spearheaded by troops of Operation Lafiya Dole, we have entered a new phase in our battle against our common enemy, Boko Haram.
    “When we see our beloved 21 Chibok girls reuniting with their families and community for Christmas, it gives us the hope that those who are still in captivity will one day return to the loving arms of family, friends and well-wishers.
    Buhari appealed to Nigerians in their different communities to be on the look out for Boko Haram terrorists on the run from the Sambisa forest.
    “I urge all Nigerians to be on the alert and watch out for strange figures settling in their communities, and report to the nearest security agencies, as our armed forces intensify the pursuit of fleeing terrorists from the captured Sambisa Forest.” He stated
    He also warned that any misguided elements taking up arms against constituted authorities must be brought to face the full weight of the law.
    The support of all Nigerians to security agencies, he said, is crucial for them to successfully execute their mandate and effectively secure the country.
    He added: “In this New Year, I want to reassure all Nigerians that our defence and security forces are more than ever before ready to perform their constitutional role of protecting lives and property in the country; and we will surely overcome all other forms of security challenges.
    “The lingering security issues in several states will be frontally addressed. These ugly crises cannot be allowed to fester as they strain the unifying bonds of brotherhood and neighbourliness. Some sections of the press and some politicians should avoid provocative and inflammatory statements, while the government is painstakingly trying to find solutions to our challenges.
    “I want to remind you on the first day of this New Year of an African proverb that says “it is easy to break a broomstick but not a bunch”. Nigeria is a bunch and is more than equal to troublemakers.
    “I have interacted with a broad spectrum of Nigerians, the old and the young, and they have told me unequivocally that they believe in the unity and stability of Nigeria.” He said
    He was also optimistic that voluntary return of all Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to their communities is imminent following the joyful return of thousands of IDPs to Damasak town in Borno State and the reopening of Maiduguri/Gubio/Damasak road in Northern Borno on December 25, 2016.
    The Federal Government, he said, will spare no effort in seeing to the resettlement and rehabilitation of all victims of terrorism and insurgency.
    But the President urged state governments, privileged Nigerians, donor agencies and countries to redouble their contributions towards resettlement and rehabilitation of all victims.
    Stressing that the government is not unaware of some mistakes and wrongdoings in handling the affairs of IDPs in the country, he said that measures are been taken to correct the mistakes and punish the culprits.
    He said that the year 2017 provides an opportunity for Nigerians to build on those aspects of national life that unite the nation.
    He added: “We are courageous, hardworking, hospitable, steadfast and resilient people, even in the face of difficulties.
    “These are the attributes that define us and have for years confounded the pessimists who do not believe in our continued existence as a united and indivisible nation.
    “We are a remarkable nation that has succeeded in harnessing our multiple diversities for national development. We must continue to support and tolerate one another and live together as one.”
    Stressing that his administration will continue to pursue peace initiatives in the Niger Delta, he called on the people in the region, who have taken to violent disruptions of economic infrastructure, to come to the negotiating table.
    He went on: “As for our brothers and sisters of the Shia Community, we urge them, too, to embrace peace. They must accept the laws of the country they live in. They cannot be islands by themselves.
    “At the same time, the law enforcement agencies must treat them humanely and according to the rule of law.”

  • 2017: Be resilient, hopeful, Dogara, Lasun tell Nigerians

    2017: Be resilient, hopeful, Dogara, Lasun tell Nigerians

    Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has urged Nigerians to be resilient in the face of the current hardship in the country, saying 2017 will bring succour to their sufferings.
    Also, his deputy, Sulaimon Lasun Yussuff, has enjoined Nigerians to remain committed and hopeful in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
    In a New Year message to Nigerians, issued by his Special Adviser on Media & Public Affairs, Turaki Hassan, the speaker assured that some positive results of the new policies and initiatives of the present government will begin to manifest in the new year leading to an improved quality of life for the citizens.
    His words: “The All Progressives Congress government of President Muhammad Buhari is fully aware of the hardship faced by Nigerians. As members of the same government, we can assure that in the new year, succour will come the way of our people as we work to provide long lasting solutions to the myriad of problems.
    “On our part, the National Assembly shall also go to work as the central institution of democracy through which the will of the people is expressed. As parliamentarians we cannot afford to be observers or mere onlookers but actors. Our work is more urgent now than ever before because the change we seek must not be anchored on the quicksands of expediency but on the enduring solid rock of legislative frameworks that deal with corruption, eliminates gender based violence, strengthens democratic institutions, reinforces human rights and good governance.
    “We shall also not fail the nation in ensuring effective scrutiny of the National government for effective implementation of all legislative frameworks especially the 2017 budget.
    “Be assured that the House of Representatives is not resting on its oars to pass legislation that will provide support for the actualisation of the lofty ideas of the change promised by this government,” Dogara said.
    The Deputy Speaker, Sulaimon Lasun Yussuff, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Wole Oladimeji, assured that 2017 will be better, adding that the House of Representatives will cooperate with the executive in ensuring that the standard of living of Nigerians is improved.

  • 2017 will yield positive results, APC assures

    2017 will yield positive results, APC assures

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has assured Nigerians that the efforts of the Muhammadu Buhari- led federal government to set the country on the part of sustainable development and growth will begin to yield positive results in 2017 and get the country out is recession.
    In its New Year message to Nigerians today, signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the APC said it is not unaware of the fact that 2016 has been a difficult year for Nigerians and expressed appreciation to Nigerians for keeping faith with the government.
    While appealing to Nigerians to be patient with the government, the APC said with the capture of the Sambisa forest by the Nigeria military, the party has achieved one of its major campaign promises.
    The statement made available to The Nation in Abuja reads: “The All Progressives Congress (APC) wishes Nigerians a happy and prosperous 2017 New Year. The party thanks Nigerians for their support and commitment to the APC-led Government in 2016.
    “We understand that the past year has been a difficult one for Nigerians as Government laid the necessary foundation for setting our country on the path of sustainable growth. We are confident however that many of Government’s effort will begin to yield positive dividends this year as our country climbs out of the current economic recession.
    “The APC continues to stand with the people of Nigeria and have confidence in the ability and commitment of President Muhammadu Buhari to provide the necessary leadership to set our economy and our country on the path of recovery and self-reliance.
    “With the effective defeat of Boko Haram insurgents in the Northeast, we have achieved one of the major promises the Party made to Nigerians even as the Government continues to work on improving the safety of lives of Nigerians across the country.

  • Amaebi Fashion showcases latest collection

    Amaebi Fashion showcases latest collection

    In a bid to position itself for the festive season as well as the New Year, 2017, city clothier, Amaebi Fashion recently unveiled its new collection. downloadfile-6

    The CEO of Amaebi, Ms Ibiba Don Pedro, in a chat, recently noted that the inspiration for the designs, most of which are Afrocentric, potraying the rich culture of the Niger Delta.

    “This collection is titled ‘Coastal Flavours’. It’s influenced by the rich history of the Niger Delta where several cultures met and fused. You can see the rich textures of ‘Etibo’ which is a mix of Indian and British styles.”unnamed-5
    The colourful collection features boubou with intricately woven embroidery, the traditional Etibo,  elegant skirts and blouse combo, evening gowns, dresses and trousers. “We also have mixed winter clothing in insulated African cotton and other interesting details which remove the drabness from winter clothing,” she noted.
    On the focus on African fabrics and designs, the Rivers State born designer said: “I’m an African woman, a creative fashion designer, fully aware of myself, my history and enjoying my African realities. I’m not going today to simply design western clothing pieces. I might borrow an idea or two here and there, but when you see the general idea, the main fabrics, you’d know this is beauty coming out of Africa. I’m so pleased to see more women wearing African pieces, their natural hair and lots of braids.”
    She’s inspired by the colours, flows of nature, the movement of people, a flash of colour here and there, the swirl of a skirt. “I’m also able to build on what I see on the street, the shape of people I see. I sketch and experiment a lot. unnamed-4
    “It’s a passion that has been with me from childhood, brought back to life through my work with young people in the Niger Delta. The passions of youth, the colours and vibes that flow in them, all these inspire me.”unnamed-3
    Besides occasion wear, the designer also does casuals, evening, swimwear and day wear.
    On her journey into the exciting world of fashion, the CNN award-winning journalist, author and environmentalist stated: “Fashion design was my very first business after NYSC in Kaduna in 1988. It was known as Biba Collection. Creating things is what I do when I’m not reading or writing.
    This current effort is about a year old and is inspired by my work and the equipment I put together working with young people in the Niger Delta.”
  • God ‘ll give Buhari solution to Nigeria’s problem in 2017- Kumuyi

    God ‘ll give Buhari solution to Nigeria’s problem in 2017- Kumuyi

    The General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church, Pastor William Kumuyi, on Sunday said that in 2017, God would grant President Muhammad Buhari the solution to the numerous challenges facing the country.

    Kumuyi gave the assurance while speaking with newsmen when he played host to the Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, who led some members of the Assembly on courtesy visit to the church’s December Convention.

    The cleric said, “We talk of the hours of recession, difficulty, distress and all that, but God is granting us His promises. We are not going to carry over our problems. “We pray and believe that the Lord will answer.

    “As you will see, as we get to the New Year, there is no carryover of our problems. God will give solutions to the problems of our lives, families, communities, the state and our nation.”

    The pastor said that with prayer and faith in God, the country would get out of all its challenges, including the economic recession.

    The founder of the church said that God created ‘’us and wants everything to be sufficient for everybody.’’

    Meanwhile, addressing the congregation of thousands of worshippers, Obasa, urged all Christians to show love to their neighbours, adding that the state was committed to fight unemployment among the youth.

    He said that the newly created Employment Trust Fund would help reduce joblessness by providing soft loan with little interest for enterprising people of Lagos state.

    “We must go beyond religious demarcation and show ourselves that we are brothers and sisters. Let us love one another. We should extend hands of fellowship to our neighbours,” the speaker said.

    Obasa, who urged churches to pray for the state and nation, said that the state was passionate to give good governance and improve the economy of the state for the benefit of all.

    He expressed delight over the warmth reception accorded his team by the leadership of the church.

    NAN reports that the speaker the Deputy Majority Leader of the House, Mr Muyiwa Jimoh and the Chairman, House Committee on Environment, Mr Dayo Saka-Fafunmi were among the team.

    Mrs Funmilayo Tejuosho, the Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Petitions and Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission among others government functionaries also made the list.

    NAN reports that the four-day, nation-wide convention, which started on Dec. 23 and expected to end on Dec. 26, is tagged, “Power for the Present Hour”.

    It is taking place at the Deeper Life Conference Centre (DLCC) KM 42, Lagos/Ibadan Expressway.(NAN)