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  • Consolidating aviation road map

    Mixed reactions have greeted the return of a pilot-turned politician , Captain Hadi Sirika, as Minister of Aviation. Though a familiar player in navigating the labyrinth of the strategic sector, experts say he must ramp up efforts beyond rhetorics to deliver on sore points he left unattended in his first term. KELVIN OSA OKUNBOR reports.

    The return of Captain cas minister of Aviation last week caused a huge debate in the industry, eliciting mixed reactions from players.

    Sirika’s return did not come to many as a surprise;  the decision of  the government to carve out Aviation Ministry from Transportation    however came to players as a step in the right direction .

    They said appointing Sirika for such undertaking, because of his professional background as an airline pilot, was a  right step.

    Experts say his experience in the industry as a pilot and politician in the last two decades,  puts him in a better stead  to appreciate  and  offer workable solutions to  myriad of challenges facing the sector.

    Industry perception of Sirika’s return

    Besides the euphoria generated by   Sirika’s reappointment, experts said his return meant different things to different people.

    They said the minister should rise above rhetorics, roll up his sleeves and hit the ground running.

    Their verdict came on the heels of Sirika’s inability to deliver three key promises in his first term.

    The controversial national carrier – Nigeria Air – was suspended indefinitely by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) because of investor apathy, hazy funding model, inability to get buy-in by stakeholders and other considerations.

    Besides the botched national carrier,  Sirika was unable to deliver an aircraft leasing company as well as set up an aircraft maintenance centre.

    Legislative reaction / interface

    Speaking in an interview,  Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Aviation, Hon Nnolim Nnaji, described Sirika’s appointment as a welcome development to ensure continuity in the sector.

    Nnaji  noted that he would expect the minister to hit the ground running because he was already familiar with the terrain.  He said:  “There is  so much to be done within a short time.”

    The lawmaker representing Nkanu East and West Federal Constituency, Enugu State,  said  he was  happy the minister came  at the time the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, (FAAN) had  begun  the reconstruction of the Enugu Airport Runway.

    Nnaji assured him of his committee’s cooperation towards providing a safe, viable and reliable industry.

    Experts’ views / agenda

    But, Chief Executive Officer of Centurion Securities Limited, Group Captain John Ojikutu (rtd), also commended the government for returning Sirika. He said a new person could have triggered a downward and dangerous trend for the sector.

    He said: “The aviation minister belongs to the group that  has contributed positively to the sector. Not returning him to the ministry and bringing a new person could  have created a downward and dangerous trend.“

    Ojikutu, however, spared a thought for the minister.

    He said: “Sirika should consider  merging Arik and Aero and designate the eventual airline as a flag carrier.

    ‘’The airlines could be merged, with a view to selling them to technical foreign investors, patriotic and credible Nigerians at reasonable cost to set up a flag carrier. This  will be only if the government funds can be fully recovered and those of other creditors, except if they are willing to be part of the new carrier with their credit in Arik and Aero.”

    Ojikutu said the new minister should put measures in place for the actualisation of the proposed national carrier.

    He said: “There should be no going back on the plan for a national carrier’’.

    Concerns / Proposed models on airports concession

    He said Sirika should rework his plans for the concession of airports by upgrading the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to a holding company, as custodian of all terminals to be handed over to private companies.

    Ojikutu said : “He should consider plans to commercialise Nigerian Airspace Management Agency. All other aeronautical infrastructure under FAAN now should be handed over to Nigerian Airspace Management Agency, including runways, taxiways and approach lighting.”

    The critic said Sirika should consider a review of the Civil Aviation Act 2006 on the sharing of revenue among agencies, from ticket and cargo sales charge.

    Aviation roundtable’s verdict

    On his part, President, Aviation Safety Initiative Round Table  (ART), Dr  Gbenga Olowo, urged Sirika to ramp up efforts to deliver timelines if he intendeds to take the sector to a higher level.

    In an interview, he said: ” I do not envy Sirika for the arduous task ahead because he has said so much in the past  four  years and expectations are so high.

    “These   four years have no room for rhetorics. In fact, 2019 is already gone and 2023 is election year. He has barely 24 months to write his name in gold. He should put all his focus on measurable deliverables.”

    He urged Sirika to expedite action on his plans to concession airports and ensure he delivers between two and three airport companies . The companies should have the task of building modern terminals and installing high technology and functional car parks that will make Lagos and Abuja as well as Kano formidable West African hubs by 2025.

    Olowo said: ” This is doable judging from the case study of Ghana within a span of  four years’’.

    Union’s recipe for critical views

    Former General Secretary, National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), Comrade Olayinka Abioye, urged Sirika to embrace critical views , if he intended to survive in the sector.

    He said: ’’Now that you are back, there is much to do, sir, as the industry begs for a new direction and galvanised action. We trust that you have the capacity and ability to excel, but you must carry all your colleagues in the industry along, the stakeholders, industry supporters and aviation enthusiasts, the unions and even share a listening ear with the critics.”

    Interventionist proposals for security/infrastructure architecture

    Experts said the Minister of Aviation should rework existing airports security architecture in the face of rising incidences of breaches, infractions and intrusion at airports.

    Citing the upsurge in stowaways, intrusion into airports’ air side and other security infractions, they said  the Minister of Aviation should put on the burner measures to complete fencing of airports and their perimeter.

    Aside consolidating existing containment measures on threat to airports security and air safety, experts said the minister should revisit ongoing recruitment of Aviation Security (AVSEC) and Aerodrome Fire  Fighting and Safety Personnel attached to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

    Previous attempt by Sirika to drive the exercise drew flak from unions, groups and the international community because of skewed criteria for the selection of candidates.

    On  the infrastructure front, experts said the Minister of Aviation should  see to the early completion of ongoing airport projects  –  in particular,  the new International Terminal at the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos.

    Quick completion of this project, they said, would reduce congestion at the over 40 years terminal due for a facelift.

    Since 1979 when the MMIA, Lagos was commissioned, no major facelift has been given to it. The minister  should start work immediately by interfacing with the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to overhaul the regulatory regime to achieve more robust technical, safety and economic audit of struggling domestic carriers.

    Continuation of sector’s road map/ministerial pledge

    Meanwhile, Sirika said that he looked forward to having an increase in the contribution of aviation to the Gross Domestic Product to about one per cent in the first few years.

    This is as aviation unions — National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), the Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN), Association of Nigeria Aviation Professionals (ANAP) and the National Association of Air Transport Pilots and Employees (NAAPE) — held a surprised welcome reception for Sirika after taking oath of office.

    He said Nigeria Air was still on the road map, and that it would continue by God’s grace. This is as he commented on the GDP contribution of aviation in the country.

    “This industry has a lot for Nigerians and it connects people, nations and markets. One airplane that will come in means 300 jobs. More than that, it is a catalyst  to growth for the economy of our country.”

    Responding to the gesture by the unions, Sirika said: “Now that we are back, we will still continue from where we started. If there is need, we will work to make it better  than what we have done before in the interest of our country and our industry aviation.”

    He reiterated the collaboration of stakeholders, saying: “Nigerians should know that while we are given the opportunity, we will work together with stakeholders, unions and the staff. We drew a road map and we are following that road map. We will continue with the road map. If it needs adjustment, we will adjust it appropriately so that it will serve the industry better. So that it will be in tune w with the presidential directive, that everything must be pro-people. So, we will continue with the pro-people initiative of Mr. President. We will ensure that all our actions will be in the interest of the people, the worker, the industry and the country in general.”

    The National Presidents of NAAPE, Comrade Abenego Galadima, and President General of ANAP, Comrade Kabir Gusau, on behalf of other unions expressed satisfaction at having Sirika back. They appealed for continued collaboration with unions in the industry for a better working relationship which would give room for progress of the industry.

     

  • Waivers as economic waste?

    The huge losses from tax incentives the country has recorded over the years have made stakeholders in the maritime sector to question the propriety of continuous tax waivers granted operators in the blue economy. Besides, they are concerned about how some operators influence Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), MUYIWA LUCAS writes.

    THE damning verdict from Oxfam, an international non-governmental organisation (NGO), that 30 per cent of companies in the country evade tax, initially did not sink into the audience which gathered at the launch of two reports – Fair Tax Monitor Index and the Commitment to Reducing Inequality Index in Abuja.

    However, when the Oxfam in Nigeria Country Director, Constant Tchona, added that Nigeria loses about $2.9 billion (about N580 billion) yearly to tax waivers granted multinational firms, the audience attention was caught.

    “The fiscal incentives granted with the hope of stimulating investments into the country’s economy are eroded with poor governance and lack of transparency, especially when the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has confirmed that there is no cost-benefit analysis to justify the exemptions,” Tchona said in his presentation.

    In their AfriHeritage Research paper of 2017, titled: “Tax Waivers for Multi-Nationals in Nigeria (MNC): Are These Based on Economic or Political Reasoning?’’ Dr. Hakeem Onapajo, of the Department of Political Science and International Relations, Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja, submitted that the system of tax waivers had been a conduit for MNCs to evade taxes and perpetuate corruption.

    The duo observed that tax incentives, especially to multinational firms, were offered on the notion that they would encourage foreign investments and promote growth. The researchers further said statistics from the Ministry of Finance and international development agencies provoke some pertinent questions. For example, former Minister of Finance Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said the country lost N170.74 billion to various tax waivers between 2011 and 2013 alone.

    In the sector, foreign vessels have continued to enjoy several waivers put in place for their operations. This is as a result of the failure of local ship owners to compete favourably with them.

    Worried by this development, and after years of loss of jobs and businesses by indigenous vessel owners to their foreign counterparts, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA)  rolled out plans to enable it end the granting of waivers to foreign vessels participating in Cabotage trade, reserved for Nigerians. NIMASA’s action is in line with the provisions of the Act, which reserved coastal trade for Nigerians to fly Nigerian flag.

    The industry regulator determined to reduce waivers, said it would grow capacity in ship building by encouraging the establishment of shipyards; creating affordable credit facilities to enable Nigerians acquire vessels; tax incentives for importing built vessels and building qualified Nigerian seafarers.

    “The tax regime makes it impossible for Nigerian ship owners to compete with their foreign counterparts. For instance, foreigners bring in vessels for a short period and they have a special tax regime that enable them pay little to nothing for their vessels to work and live in Nigeria. Whereas, a Nigerian is charged a full range of tax applicable (14 percent), making it near impossible for their Nigerian vessels to compete,” the Director-General of NIMASA, Dakuku Peterside, explained at a stakeholders conference in Lagos sometime ago.

    Tax holiday vs statutory levies

    Another grey area NIMASA is aiming to cancel waivers is in its financial dealings with the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG). It is imperative to draw the line between NLNG’s tax holiday and  NIMASA’s levies. NIMASA levies have nothing to do with the NLNG tax holiday. The 10-year tax holiday was a pioneer period incentive in the manner of similar relief to pioneer companies under the Industrial Development (Income Tax Relief) Act and pertains specifically to income tax. NLNG pays Companies Income Tax and Tertiary Education Tax, which are the heads of corporate income taxes recognised under Nigeria’s laws since the end of the tax relief period.

    However, NIMASA is empowered to collect statutory levies accruable to the agency, including the three percent levy on gross freight on inbound and outbound international cargo; two percent Cabotage levy and Sea Protection levy. Section 15(a) of the NIMASA Act 2007 stipulates: “The agency shall be funded by monies accruing to the agency from the following sources: three per cent of gross freight on all international inbound and outbound cargo from ships or shipping companies operating in Nigeria to be collected and paid over to the agency to meet its operational cost.”

    Section 2(2) of the Act states that exemptions are only granted to “war ships and military patrol ships”. NIMASA argues that NLNG vessels do not fall within those exempted from the levies and that the tax holiday granted it was time-bound. Therefore, according to NIMASA, the NLNG was not exempted from payments of statutory levies after its tax holiday ended.

    “NIMASA has portfolios of statutory revenues that it collects from shipping companies/ship operators, manning agents and seafarers. This, the agency pays into the coffers of the government,” said the agency.

    Conflicting Acts

    The NLNG/NIMASA saga began in 2007, when the maritime regulator expected NLNG to start paying levies. By NIMASA’s calculation, NLNG’s tax holiday lapsed in 2007. NLNG saw no sense in NIMASA’s claim. As far as it is concerned, the Act setting it up exempts it from NIMASA’s levies.

    The NLNG Act 2004 predates the NIMASA Act 2007. Section 7(7) of the NLNG Act 2004 states: “No export duties, taxes, or other duties, levies, charges, or imposts of a similar nature shall be payable or imposed on the exports of liquefied natural gas or other hydrocarbons produced by the company.”

    In furtherance of the conflict in the both Acts, paragraph 3, Schedule 2 of the NLNG Act states: “Neither the company nor its stakeholders shall in any way be subject to new laws, regulations, taxes, duties, imposts or charges of whatever nature which are not applicable generally to companies incorporated in Nigeria.”

    Yet, according to NIMASA Act 2007, it has the right to collect levies from ships and small ships “registered in Nigeria and also from ships, small ships and crafts flying a foreign flag in the exclusive economic zone, territorial and inland seas, inland waterways and in the ports of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”. This, to stakeholders, is where the bone of contention lies.

    NLNG vs NIMASA

    NIMASA has continued to argue that the incentives granted NLNG, are not meant to be in perpetuity. The agency points at Section 2 of the NLNG Act, which limits the tax holiday of the company to 10 years or when the cumulative average sales price of the liquefied natural gas reaches $3 in million metric British Thermal Units (MMBTU). NIMASA said its market intelligence shows that as at January 2004, which was the fifth anniversary of the production of the NLNG, the milestone for the expiration of the exemption period had been surpassed by 200 per cent.

    Now, with the ruling of a Lagos Court of Appeal on March 29, 2019, in favour of NIMASA, a fresh round of legal tussle may be on the horizon.

    What next?

    Peterside, in commending the ruling of the appellate court, said it has reaffirmed confidence in the judiciary.

    “This judgment has further shown that the judiciary is unbiased and remains a beacon of hope for Nigerians. On our part as a responsible government agency, we will continue to work closely with the judiciary and other stakeholders to ensure that we realise our mandate of creating a robust maritime sector in line with best global practices,” Peterside said.

    For over 30 days, the NLNG did not respond to The Nation’s enquiries on the matter. After an unanswered phone call and text message to Elkanah Chawai, Senior Media Relations Officer, External Relations Division, NLNG, an electronic mail was sent to him on July 26, which he acknowledged receiving three days later.

    On August 4, a reminder sent to  Chawai was responded to on August 9. He appealed to be given more time to reply. He has not done so as at the time of going to press.

  • ‘Law appealed to me because it was difficult’

    Kenechi Obele is a woman of many parts, lawyer, tax practitioner, corporate Masters of Ceremony (MC) and ‘sarcasm enthusiast’. The 2015 Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) alumna shares her law story with ROBERT EGBE.

    Fourth of four sisters

    My name is Kenechi Obele (Obele-Martins on social media) and I am a lawyer with major focus on taxation. I am the fourth of four sisters and the only arts inclined person in my family. My dad is a businessman while my mum is an educationist, who owns schools. We are from Nanka in Orumba-North Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State. I enjoy reading, travelling (by air, please) and generally being sarcastic. I’m a professional moderator and corporate MC on the side (because I love talking).

    Nnamdi Azikiwe University’s alumna

    I attended Margrace International School, Lagos (owned by my mum) and Federal Government Girls’ College, Sagamu, Ogun State. I am a 2015 graduate of the prestigious Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka and I attended The Nigerian Law School, Bwari, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Campus, graduating in 2016.

    Best Debater

    I was a student politician, among others. I was Vice President of the Law Students’ Association of UNIZIK. I, however, rejected the appointment as a judge of the faculty afterwards because I wanted to pursue my talents in public speaking without interruptions. I spent the rest of my university years participating in different debates. I was the winner of the maiden edition of The Most Intelligent Student in UNIZIK (UNIZIK Brain Facio). I represented the Faculty of Law at the Eastern Universities Debates and led our team to winning first place. I clinched the Best Debater award. After winning all there was, I spent my last days in school judging competitions I had previously won.

    My family members were all science inclined

    Prior to studying law, the only lawyer I had heard of in my family was a distant uncle, who I’ve never met till date. Members of my immediate family are all science inclined. I had also never seen a courtroom save for images I saw on television.

    Law appealed to me because it was difficult

    Law, for me like many in my generation, was the course the smart art kid studied to avoid becoming the disgrace of the family (big grin). I could have easily studied any other course since I excelled in all arts-related subjects, but since I argued logically to the surprise of adults and was inquisitive, Law, it was. Law’s greatest appeal to me however, was how difficult it was. I’ve never been known to back out of a challenge.

    Law School was hectic, but real fun

    My law school experiences were a myriad of things. It was hectic, but also really fun. I read a lot. I’m an introvert, who isn’t attracted to large gatherings, so, I never partied. During internship, however, I met an amazing set of people at the chambers of Onyechi Ikpeazu SAN where I interned, and we sometimes found time to hang out and have fun.

    Call to Bar

    My parents came to Abuja to celebrate the Call to Bar with me. My siblings made souvenirs and my aunty and her family whom I stayed with planned a grand celebration for me. Shout out to my cousin, Chidiogo for taking time off work to bake me the tastiest cake ever.

    Most embarrassing, memorable days in court

    I have had a number of embarrassing days in court such as the day I arrived just after the court had adjourned my matter because I was late. My most memorable day would have to be my first win while I was a Corp member. I had gotten a Fundamental Rights matter dismissed with costs awarded in our favour.

    I’ve been lucky with remuneration

    Although the principal of the firm where I served loved me and paid me a decent remuneration as a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, I knew he wouldn’t be able to pay what I wanted post NYSC, so, I left in search of my desired remuneration and got it. I’ve been lucky wage wise.

    Why I’d rather not marry a lawyer

    I’d rather not marry a lawyer. Not that I have anything against it, but I like some diversity. If I were to choose a partner by profession, I’d go for a pharmacist (don’t ask me why) or some IT or computer geek. What’s important for me, however, is an ambitious partner who shares my values.

    Legal profession rooted in archaic and technical practices

    The legal profession is still rooted in archaic and technical practices. For one, I see no reason why women should not wear trousers to court nor why female lawyers and judges are referred to as ‘men in skirt’ and ‘sir’. Secondly, the entire practice of wigs and gowns is tiring. Also, lots of lawyers still write verbose briefs (Thanks to The Write House in Nigeria working to change this writing attitude of lawyers). Most importantly, litigants losing in court based on technicalities rather than the substance of the law is saddening. I would work towards a contemporary and progressive profession if I could.

    Mentors

    My mentors are not found in big names and portfolios. I look up to my seniors, who make themselves available to teaching me and setting me straight any time I need help. There are several of them. I’m especially grateful to Chidiebele Onunkwo of Onunkwo & Onunkwo Chambers and Obinna Akpuchukwu of Allen & Marylebone both in the busy city of Onitsha, Anambra State.

    SAN, professor or judge?

    If I were to become a Professor of Law, I would be a professor of Tax Law since I am a tax lawyer and tax enthusiast. However, I do not aspire to any special ranks in law. The judges’ life isn’t attractive to me and the time I need to put in to becoming a SAN or professor is time I would rather spend pursuing my other interests. I’m working towards becoming a renowned business person and a contributing voice to social change and development.

    The future

    I have lofty plans (as I’m sure many humans have… laughs), but I am currently working on two things. In my space as a lawyer and tax practitioner, I would be kicking off videos breaking down taxation in its simplest form for SMEs on my Instagram handle (@kaynaychy) and as part of social change, I have a project in the works for the promotion of Igbo Language with a charity undertone.

  • Okagbare disqualified as two others advance to Tuesday’s 100m final

    Blessing Okagbare on Monday in Rabat at the 12th African Games suffered disqualification after a false start in the women’s 100 metres semi-finals heat 1.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that she was disqualified for beating the gun at the starting block.

    It was a huge disappointment for Okagbare who had earlier in the day won heat 3 of the event’s first round with a time of 11.53 seconds.

    She was already looking forward to Tuesday’s final of the event at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex before the unfortunate incident.

    “This is disappointing. I was already looking forward to appearing in the final, but this is disappointing,” the 2008 Olympics women’s long jump bronze medalist said.

    The heat was however won by Cote d’Ivoire’s Marie Ta Lou who returned a time of 11.36 secs, with Kenya’s Maxmila Imali finishing second with 11.71 secs.

    Joy Udo-Gabriel who earlier in the day won heat 4 of the first round with a time of 11.46 secs helped to make up for Team Nigeria by winning heat 3.

    She advanced to Tuesday evening’s final with a time of 11.47 secs.

    Aniekeme Alphonsus who recorded 11.67 secs to advance in the morning from heat 5 also got a final spot after placing fourth with 11.82 secs in the semi-finals’ heat 2.

    Alphonsus and Udo-Gabriel will now contend in the final with Ta Lou and Imani.

    They also have Ngoye Natacha of Congo, Gina Bass of The Gambia, Basant Hemida of Egypt and Tebogo Mamathu of South Africa to battle against in the search for medals.(NAN)

  • Primary: APC committee in Kogi approves Bello, 3 others

    The Screening Committee of  the All Progressives Congress (APC)  has approved Gov. Yahaya Bello of Kogi and three other aspirants for the Aug. 29 primary of the party.

    The committee approved the four aspirants out of the 16 aspirants that have indicated interests in participating in the state governorship election on Nov. 16.

    The committee announced the approval  in a report issued in Abuja on Monday at the end of the screening exercise.

    Signed by Sen. Hope Uzodinma, the chairman of the committee, the committee said that other aspirants approved are Mr Abubakar Bashir, Ekele Aishat Blessing and Rep. Hassan Abdullahi.

    The 13 male aspirants bought expression of interest and nomination forms at N22.5 million each, while three female aspirants purchased it at N11.25  million each.

    NAN reports that the total income realised  from the sale of forms was about N327 million.

    According to the report,  Prof. Mohammed Seidu is not cleared because he paraded two different dates of birth.

    The report said that there was also discrepancy in the date of birth of Usman Oyibe Jibrin.

    Read Also: Kogi: ‘Our disqualification flawed, ploy to throw up Bello as candidate’

    Other aspirants,  according to the report, are not cleared due to the following reasons:

    Mustapha Mona Audu: invalid nomination process; not a financial member of the party; no evidence of financial contribution to the party, certificate of birth or declaration of age not attached.

    Hadiza Iyoma Ibrahim: No supporting document/credentials,  invalid nomination by members of the party and not a financial member of the party.

    Yahaya Odidi Audu: Invalid declaration of age and not a financial member of the party.

    Sani Lulu Abdullahi: Not a financial member of the party and not registered in his ward.

    Patrick Adenu Akpa: Unsigned and invalid nomination form and not a financial member of the party.

    Danlami Umar Mohammed: Not a financial member of the party, invalid party membership card and invalid nomination.

    Yakubu Mohammed: Not a financial member of the party and invalid nomination.

    Babatunde Ayo Kunle Irukera: Invalid declaration of age, spent less than one year in the party and without waiver, academic credentials and supporting documents not attached, not a committed party member and nomination form not duly signed.

    Rukkaya Ibrahim: Incomplete nomination form, no Permanent Voter Card, invalid declaration of age and not a committed party member.

    Mohammaed Abubakar Audu: Invalid nomination form and not  financial member of the party.

    The report said further that “the committee received two separate sets of petitions against some of the aspirants and  they were  attached to the  committee report.

    “We thank and appreciate the APC National Working Committee led by Mr Adams Oshiomhole for the confidence reposed on the chairman and members of the committee.

    “We hope that the committee’s recommendations will bring peace, harmony and unity that will ensure the victory of the party at the Nov.  16 general election,” the report said.

    However,  the coalition of aspirants who were not cleared by the screening committee expressed concern about the outcome of the screening.

    The spokesman of the coalition, Mr Babatunde Irukera, who urged the party not to narrow the process, urged the party to make its primaries open to enable card carrying members ti make their choice.

    According to him, the National Working Committee should find administration remedy to this procedural error.(NAN)

  • Buhari condoles Aliko Dangote over family members’ death

    President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday commiserated with Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Africa’s leading industrialist and businessman, following recent losses of some members of his family.

    The large extended family lost three persons, Aliko’s cousin, Madugu Dantata, his uncle, Alhaji Murtala Dantata and Alhaji Sa’idu Fanta, a relation.

    Read Also: Waiting for Dangote refinery

    In a message of condolence to Aliko Dangote, the Dantata family and the government and people of Kano State through Boss Mustapha, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, President Buhari described the losses, which occurred in  rapid succession as irreparable losses that must be accepted as God-ordained.

    He prayed to Allah to grant peace for the departed souls and the bereaved families the strength to bear the losses.

  • Zamfara State, Russia to partner on agriculture, health, education, mineral exploration

    Zamfara State Government is partnering with the Russian government towards developing critical sectors of the state’s economy.

    This was disclosed at a meeting between the Zamfara State Governor Hon Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle MON (Matawallen Maradun) and the Ambassador of the Russian federation, Mr Alexey L.Shebarshin, at the Russian Embassy in Abuja on Monday.

    The Meeting focused on improving the Zamfara State Economic Sectors of Agriculture, Solid Minerals Development and Exploration and Education and Health.

    As a result of the partnership, they intend to work together in collaboration to assist the present government in improving the state economy and creating wealth among the citizens of the state.

    The Ambassador said that his country, which specializes in minerals Exploration and excavation, will provide Zamfara State with expertise that will enhance the state’s economy for global marketing.

    He also extended an invitation to the Governor on the upcoming first Russia/African Union  Summit coming up on October, 24-25, 2019, which will focus on fostering economic, Political and cultural co-operations

    He further said that during the summit the Governor will be invited to visit one of the biggest Russian gold mining companies transformed by high technology mining equipment.

    Read Also: Gov. Matawalle of Zamfara appoints new HOS

    Speaking earlier, Zamfara State Governor Hon Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle said he was at the Russian Federation Embassy to seek for a strong partnership on how best to develop  Zamfara State’s critical sectors of the economy and to have foreign investors especially in Agriculture and solid minerals.

    Matawalle said his decision to visit the Russian embassy is to make Zamfara benefit from the expertise of Russia, which is known in developing countries, by extending same to Zamfara through transfer of technology.

    This, according to the governor, has made Russia a formidable ally of all nations that desire true and meaningful development.

    Governor Matawalle solicited the partnership of the Russian government in transforming Zamfara State Agricultural sector to make it an all year round activity, with greater benefit to the farmers through the deployment of modern farming technology.

    On the solid minerals, the Governor informed the Russian Ambassador that various minerals are available in the State in a commercial quantities which include gold, uranium, manganese, kaolin, granite, tantalite and Zinc and requested the Russian Government to come and invest in the State solid minerals Exploration.

    On Education, he said his Government wished to partner with the Russian Government to provide scholarship for the indigenes of the State considering Russia’s reputation of academic excellence globally.

    During the meeting the Governor was together with the State Head of Service, Alhaji Kabiru Balarabe, Special Adviser to the Governor on Solid Minerals Resources and Environment, Dr.Nura Isah,Alhaji Bashir Hadeja, Directorate Head of Heritage Bank, Mr George Oko-oboh and the Director General Press Affairs to the Governor, Mallam Yusuf Idris Gusau.

  • ‘Edo Broadcasting Service remits N20m IGR in 7 months’

    The Edo State Broadcasting Service (EBS) has remitted a total of N20 million to the Edo State Government being revenue generated internally from December 18, 2018 to July 31, 2019.

    The improved financial health of the station follows radical reforms instituted by the state government to reposition the media house for optimum service delivery.

    Specifically, besides the improved Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), the new management has vigorously pursued cost-effective measures by paying attention to serviceable equipment and blocking revenue leakages in the system.

    In its July Report, Acting General Manager of the service, Mr Ransley Abu-Osagie, said that the outfit remitted a total of N20 million since he assumed management of the station, noting, “In revenue generation, EBS paid a total of N2,400,000 to IGR in July, 2019, thus making the total amount remitted to government N20 million since December 18, 2018 to July 13, 2019, that is, seven months and twelve days.”

    He added that “the station engaged government-approved external auditors, Lucky Osawaru and co-firm to commence work on the station’s 2017 and 2018 accounts.”

    He said the station deployed novel means to address issues with its transmission equipment and partnered with the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (EBS) in addressing some of its power supply challenges.

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    According to him, “Repair work on GoTV (system) which was achieved in June was damaged by inclement weather. Steps are already being taken to re-launch on GoTV.”

    Recall that Governor Obaseki embarked on an overhaul of EBS in its commitment to revamp the state-owned media enterprises.

    The overhaul led to the appointment of new management that has turned the loss-making entity into a revenue-generating outfit.

    The state government is completing processes for procurement of new equipment to improve the broadcasting service.

  • Future Awards: Youths must amplify their good deeds – Amina Mohammed

    Nigerian youths must amplify their good deeds and amazing works in order to crowd out the not so good things circulating every space around the globe; because if we put our attention on and amplify our good deeds, there is no stopping us.

    The Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations (UN), Amina Mohammed, made this remarks at the launching of this year’s Future Awards Africa (TFAA) themed: “The new Nigerian tribe,” in Abuja on Monday.

    According to her, “We have amazing youths doing great things everywhere. What we need to do is to amplify their voices and make it a movement, and not just a one-off or a shooting star.

    “Now, more than ever before we need African youths to get active and use their greater awareness, education, and connectivity for a positive impact in our families, communities, schools, and the society overall.

    “Let’s amplify the good things that we do so that we can crowd out the not so good things; if we put our attention on the good things, there is no stopping us.

    “You are a generation of change makers – innovators, entrepreneurs etc., you have moulded your strong vision for a collective Africa, and I think that is really unusual.

    “Challenge yourself and continue to empower fellow youths to achieve your full potential. As you lead and advance good governance in your various communities, remember to uphold values of shared responsibility, collectivity, accountability, obligation, and transparency.”

    She further added: “Ultimately, we will promote an environment that recognizes youths, agencies, etc., and their important contributions to change and at the same time hope that we can create safe spaces and expand opportunities; to see that for every challenge, we have a multiplicity of opportunities that have equal benefits.

    “We need to look at our constitution and look at where our rights are in it, and amplify them; to find the core values that this nation has.

    “That means that it does not matter whether you are Hausa, Fulani, Yoruba or Igbo, there must be at least three things that we all agree on. We can hold on to that and make it our anchor to keep us together.

    “It is only in this nation that you as a citizen can be who you want to be, there are no barriers. In other countries, you are a second class citizen.

    “What matters most is your dignity; don’t ever lose your dignity. Without dignity you will hunch your shoulders.”

    The Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr. Sunday Dare, also emphasized on the need to mentor and create opportunities for every youth to grow and live a life of contribution.

    According to him, “At the ministry, we share the vision of the TFAA to develop human development capacity and to provide quality and better leadership.

    “With a mission to inspire leadership and build enterprise, the Future Africa Awards (TFAA), is clearly setting the pace in the area of mobilizing youth towards positive participation in nation building.

    “This is hugely important because today, Nigeria like many nations is grappling with issues such as insecurity, corruption, disorientation, etc., the root of which is traceable to breakdown or total loss of societal values as well as a lack of a coordinated and structured reward system. The importance of recognition and reward can therefore never be over emphasized.

    “When we, as a nation, institutionalize such noble values, it helps us to raise citizens whose mindsets are focused on making positive contributions, knowing that their labours will not go unnoticed.

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    “Further to this, we will push for the establishment and institutionalisation of the Nigerian National Youth and Sports Award, which we hope will commence in 2020.

    “The award seeks to recognise and honour youth who have made astounding contributions in the areas of youth and sports development. In this way, we hope to project national icons that will not only inspire their peers but hopefully motivate and breed patriotism among them.

    “I would therefore call on all agencies with interventions in matters concerning the Youth to partner with the Ministry for greater effectiveness of their interventions.”

    The co-founder of the TFAA, Mr. Adebola Williams, re-iterated that young people are at the vanguard of making changes in all the sector of our economy, and must therefore strive to change the single stories of gloom about the Nigerian youths.

    “The TFAA has to go harder in telling the stories of innovation in our country. We must use our various platforms to tell the stories of great exploits by the Nigerian youths. We want to change the wrong perception about the Nigerian youth.

    “We are about partnerships, support, and building businesses and innovations not fraud, crimes or other vices,” he said.

    The Future Awards is Africa’s most respected awards ceremonies; it identifies the brightest and best young Africans and deploy them as role models; to inspire a generation of Africans to hope and to believe in their capacities to change their countries.

     

  • How AfCFTA agreement will boost Nigeria’s economy – Expert

    Economy  and Finance Development expert, Tunde Olatunji, says the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) recently signed by President Muhammadu Buhari has the potential of boosting the nation’s economy if well utilised.

    Olatunji, who is also the Chief Whip of Osun House of Assembly, said this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) on Monday in Osogbo.

    NAN recalls that Nigeria became the 53rd country to join AfCFTA on July 7 after Buhari signed the agreement in Niamey, capital of the Niger Republic .

    He said Nigeria as a nation must look at the benefits and opportunities that would accrue from the agreement.

    The lawmaker, however, said the agreement might come with a ‘threat’ just like every other economic policy and programme.

    Read Also: ‘AfCFTA threatens N50b local market’

    He said that the opportunities and benefits the country would likely gain from agreement were significant and massive.

    The lawmaker noted that government  only needed to put in place measures that would counter the risk and threat that might come with it.

    “With the agreement, we are looking at economic upsurge through the opportunity of doing trade and businesses with over 1.2 billion people with a cumulative Gross Domestic Product(GDP) in excess of $2.2 trillion.

    ”This is too significant for us to ignore as a nation and it will be out place for Nigeria as giant of Africa not to be part of the agreement and utilise its economic benefits,” he said.

    According to Olatunji, since the Federal Government is now focusing on economic diversification and aggressively pursing the growth of the non-oil sector, it must utilise the opportunities embedded in the agreement.

    He said if Nigeria could boost its Intercontinental trading through the agreement, it would rub off on the nation’s gross GDP.

    “We must encourage local investment, identify our export opportunities and for me, this agreement will be of great benefit to us as a country,” Olatunji said. (NAN)