The Nation Newspaper

Tag: recognition

  • Nahco directors get recognition

    Seven directors of Nigerian Aviation Handling Company (Nahco) Plc, including their former counterparts, have been adjudged to meet the corporate governance standards set by the Corporate Governance Rating System (CGRS).

    The CGRS is an initiative between the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Convention on Business Integrity (CBi). It was designed to rate quoted companies and their directors on corporate governance practices.

    Nahco’s directors, who were awarded the CGRS certificates included the company’s Chairman, Usman Arabi Bello and two other directors – Tijjani Ahmed Uwais and Ms. Hadiza Aliko-Mohammed.

    The former directors included former Managing Director, Kayode Oluwasegun-Ojo; Gordon Gofwan, Ike Nwachukwu and Alhaji Faruk Umar.

    Nahco Plc Managing Director, Mr. Idris Yakubu, said the certification confirmed the high corporate governance principles on which the operations of the company are based.

    Yakubu, who assumed leadership of Nahco in November 2013, praised the corporate governance principles embedded in the company.

    “This did not come to us as a surprise. Nahco is one of the few publicly listed companies in the aviation sector whose processes, procedures, and practices remain a benchmark for the entire industry,” Yakubu said.

    He noted that the company’s board provides strategic leadership that inspires investors’ confidence in the company and ensures it continues to deliver superior value to all its stakeholders.

    He assured that the company would use the CGRS certification as a stepping to stone to achieve greater things.

    To be certified, the CGRS rates quoted companies through three processes, including independent verification; self-assessment by the company; certification of director awareness of their fiduciary duties; and a corporate integrity assessment where perceptions of actual company behaviour are sought from internal and external stakeholders.  A score of 70 percent and above for both the company and individual directors is required for certification.

  • NGO’s to get recognition

    WOMEN and men who have been doing a lot in making sure that those living with one form of disability or the other smile on a daily basis and live happily will be celebrated come  December 22.

    The award will be given by the Empathy Driven Women International Initiative (EDWIIN), a non-government organization focused on women living with physical disabilities who also have a passion and will to live way above their physical limitations. The selection is in a bid to celebrate the International Day for the Disabled and honour a few organizations for their contributions in the life of those living with disability.

    In a letter sent to The Nation, the Convener, EDWIIN, Uri Ngozichukwuka, said the event tagged: “Arresting Disabilities” is in line with United Nations 2017 theme for International Day of disabled persons Towards Transforming a Resilient and Sustainable Society.

    Stating that this will be the first edition, she said organisation is happy to bring the first EDWIIN celebration of charities.

    The letter stated that, “In this chosen path of bringing smiles to faces, giving hope to the hopeless, drying tears, giving wings to people to fly with their dreams, bringing peace and joy to millions of hearts, there’s hardly any notable appreciation that comes to these agents of mercy save for the deep gratitude of the recipients of their kindness.

    “We at EDWIIN chose to take out time to celebrate these charity organizations and great men and women who have been doing phenomenal work in the disabled community.

    “This year, EDWIIN is focusing on charities targeted to people living with disabilities. We are looking at help given in these areas- Health, disability aids, education, vocational skills, food, shelter, empowerment, mentorship, counseling, business development,” she said.

    She hinted that a Life Coach, Wole Olusola will speak on “Managing your emotions” and a medical doctor and Clinical Psychologist; Dr Maymunah Kadiri will speak on “The emotional well-being and you”.

    Explaining that the programme will hold between 9am and 12 pm, at the Lagos Polo Club, Ikoyi; she said this is in consideration of the physical abilities of some of the guests. “This is to help them navigate to and fro in broad day light.”

    On the dress code, she said because the event is about service to humanity the dress code is usually Smart Casual. “The EDWIIN dress code is a simple blue jeans and a white top.”

    Among the awardees are, Nonyelum Nweke, founder and CEO of Cerebral Palsy Centre (CpCentre) the first centre in Nigeria to solely manage children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) a congenital disorder that affects part of developing infant’s brain.

    “CpCenter since inception in 2010 has provided children with CP with free therapies, care, boarding and respite to the families. She studied Science Education from University of Benin, Nigeria and also holds a diploma in Journalism. She has had a hands-on training on management of children with CP at Turkey Spastic Children’s Centre, Istanbul, Turkey. A member of the International Cerebral Palsy Society (ICPS), Nonye is a disability advocate but passionate about CP.”

    Another awardee is Okaro Oreva of Bold Charity Project; which was set up to reach out and uplift the visually impaired as well as Tola Makinde’s Morainbow Foundation, which is dedicated to children living with Down Syndrome.

  • Friesland Campina gets govt’s recognition

    Friesland Campina gets govt’s recognition

    The Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Audu Ogbeh, has applauded the efforts of FrieslandCampina WAMCO, makers of Peak and Three Crowns milk, in creating and successfully hosting Nigeria’s first ‘Dairy Farmers’ Day’ programme.

    He gave the commendation on Thursday in Iseyin, Oyo State, during the first edition of the Dairy Farmers’ Day, which was aimed at highlighting the importance of dairy farming in the provision of food and employment for rural farmers.

    The event celebrated and encouraged dairy farmers from the five local government areas where FrieslandCampina WAMCO Plc’s Dairy Development Programme (DDP) is currently being implemented in Oyo State.

    “Let me reiterate the Federal Government’s commitment to the success of FrieslandCampina WAMCO’s DDP, which has taken a firm root in Oyo State and is spreading to other parts of the country,” Ogbeh said.

    At the event, five dairy farmers emerged winners from the five LGAs where the DDP has produced excellent improvements in local milk sourcing, dairy farming standards, improved business model and farmers’ livelihood.

    Each winner of the award for good dairy farming practices got a brand new motorbike, which was presented by the Chairman Board of Directors, FrieslandCampina WAMCO, Mr. Moyo Ajekigbe.

    The winners are Adamu Aliu Poku of Fashola LGA, Kadade Amodu (Alaga LGA), Mohammed Osomo (Iseyin LGA), Amuda Yusuff Aliu (Maya LGA) and Abdukareem Jubril (Saki LGA).

    In his address, the Managing Director, FrieslandCampina WAMCO Plc, Mr. Ben Langat, said: “As a company, we will continue to lead in steering economic solutions in the dairy sector and will continue to play a key role in the ongoing efforts to improve and maximise the potentials of dairy farming in Nigeria.”

    He said the event was to celebrate all the dairy farmers across the communities in Oyo State where the DPP is currently being implemented, adding that it also facilitates knowledge exchange and experiential learning between local dairy farmers and dairy experts from within and outside Nigeria.

    FrieslandCampina WAMCO also invited two Dutch farmers – Gerben Smeenk and Herman Bakhius – under its Farmer2Farmer Programme from The Netherlands.

    Both men shared experiences and their knowledge of best global dairy farming practices with their Nigerian counterparts and in turn learnt, identified and discussed challenges facing Nigeria’s dairy sector. They also proffered solutions.

    The event featured presentation on the theme: “Dairy Farming: A Business Lead for Economic Growth” as well as panel discussions.

    Over 300 farmers attended the celebration. Also celebrating the Nigerian dairy farmers were the Ambassador of The Netherlands to Nigeria, Mr. Robert Petri; Governor of Kebbi State, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu; representatives of the Oyo State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP), 2Scale-IFDC and Sahel Capital Partners.

    The Dairy Farmers’ Day was rounded off with an exhibition by key players in the dairy sector namely, Animal Care, Top Feeds, Real People Concept, Terratiga, Festola Farms and CEVA Sante Animale, among others. The exhibition included simulations of good dairy practices, artificial insemination, animal health and nutrition, vaccines, forage production, veterinary equipment, animal reproduction technology and management.

  • True charity seeks no recognition

    SIR: The natural inclination of man is to seek validation and approval. His need for public endorsement is better explained in the context of the animal kingdom – where gaining respect and admiration enhances survival.

    This desire for acknowledgment and commendation is in itself healthy, and indeed the motivation for many great human endeavours, but it quickly runs amok if unchecked.

    There lies the need for introspection and reflection. There comes the need to curtail unbridled ambitions. Every thought, every idea should be thoroughly examined so that self-seeking cravings are aborted and the less privileged are not exploited, in guise of public donations.

    In this party of feigned concerns for the downtrodden, no one dons better attires than political office holders or wannabes. Their colours are the brightest and their linen the choicest. By some stroke of magic, market women and street children suddenly become noticeable, weeks to elections. Without hesitation or reluctance, every resource is then mobilised for stomach infrastructure.

    But those are political jobbers. One need not take their merry band seriously. Distance should however be maintained, so their illness is not transferred, if contagious.

    Now to the zealously held and sadly, familiar: The devotion in some temples is high, but more for contests during harvests. Either to appeal to human psychology, or to ensure transparency, anonymity of donors is jettisoned. Names and family donations are published.

    So the affair, for the vain-hearted, becomes a race to lead the pack. Or to at least match contemporaries, if there is no means. Even those who ordinarily will not donate are forced by that method. The results will be in public glare. So the shame of making no contribution gates many penniless members at home.

    But despite that narrative, it is not yet a central teaching that acts of philanthropy be trumpeted. The Bible in fact speaks to the contrary. One can reason with the way of the world nonetheless. Charitable organisations need to show evidence for donor funds. But if philanthropy is done out of personal account, why draw attention to it?

    When we gather the hungry, the homeless, the wretched, and take pictures of kind selves as we provide relief, we simply are mocking their sorry state. When we upload those pictures for instagram likes, and in exchange for retweets on twitter, we strip our victims of dignity.

    Yet, can’t charity be announced so the community can imitate? Certainly it can. But he really must be a peculiar man that finds no example of good behaviour but himself.

    It is good and praiseworthy to be a philanthropist. But it is even better to be a quiet one.

    • Adeyoose Olusola

    Ibadan.

  • FSTC principal gets recognition

    Principal of the Federal Science and Technical College (FSTC), Yaba, Rev Chris Ugorji, has been recognised for his contribution to the school’s development.

    Senior officers of the college, members of the PTA executives as well as the Chairman of the School Based Management Committee (SBMC), Mr Ladi Lawanson, witnessed the presentation of the award by the African Global International Magazine, which sent a delegation led by Mr Keneth Okafor to the school.

    Speaking at the principal’s conference room, Okafor said Ugorji was selected for the award, following his nomination by the public to the governing board of the media organisation.  He said it was in recognition of the positive changes in the school since Ugorji came on board about two years ago.

    Ugorji, who retires this year, promised to keep working hard until his last day in office.

    He advised the workers to give their best and be assured of recognition in due season.

    “My pledge to God is that until the last day, I will be working like I have 100 years ahead.  Let us continue to take the assignment God has given us seriously.

    ‘’Since I came many of our staff have been promoted. It came by reason of dogged commitment.  Every position or situation, regard it as a preparatory ground.  Even as I prepare to exit, my prayer is that God will bring somebody who is better than I am; that will take staff welfare seriously and would love the children,” he said.

    Many of those present praised Ugorji, saying he deserved the award.

    The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) Chairman, Mr Abdul-Rafi-O Abdul-Qudir, said Ugorji exceled because he listened to people.

    “The Principal listens and anyone that listens makes less mistakes,” he said.

    Mr Lawanson said Ugorji had done well for the school.

    “Hon. Reverend Ugorji is a committed educationist and an astute administrator. He has provided exemplary leadership at FSTC Yaba. The result is a motivated management team and committed workforce. This, in turn, has translated to improved academic performance and visible discipline among the students.This award is the latest in a long list of laurels that attest to the quality of stewardship he has rendered at FSTC and his previous assignments. He has earned my unreserved respect and admiration,” he said.

  • Recognition for Ekiti women monarchs

    Recognition for Ekiti women monarchs

    After several years of advocacy, enlightenment and sensitisation to the need for the government to recognise the critical role of women traditional rulers, the monarchs have got a voice in Ekiti State when Governor Ayodele Fayose inaugurated the Council of Female Traditional Rulers, Ekiti State chapter. The recognition became the reason for the monarchs to celebrate in Ibadan. OSEHEYE OKWUOFU reports.

    ‘A spectacular development has emerged from Ekiti State where “Prof.” Ayodele Fayose, as his people fondly call him, inaugurated National Council of Female Traditional Rulers in Nigeria–Ekiti State branch. For the first time ever, the bold and courageous Ekiti State Governor summoned male rulers and their female counterparts for a meeting at the Governor’s office’

    In the yesteryear, it was a taboo for a community to be ruled by a woman in some parts of the country. It was part of the subjugation which the women folk experience across the country.

    However, in the Western part of the country, historical evidence indicate that some communities or towns had, in the past, been ruled by women. Besides, some of them had contributed immensely to the safety and survival of their communities during periods of external invasion.

    While some historians have argued that the history of the Yoruba would be incomplete without recourse to the role of women traditional rulers, others vehemently deny the existence of such monarchs across the region. But statues and monuments built in honour of such heroines abound in major cities of Yoruba land, thereby making it difficult to wish away the debate. The statue of the revered Moremi at Ile-Ife is a great example of the countless roles women had played in saving their communities.

    Of late, female traditional rulers received support when Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State gave them recognition after several years of advocacy, enlightenment and sensitisation to the need for government to recognise the critical role of female traditional rulers in Nigeria.

    In the circumstances, the female monarchs held a press conference to celebrate the great achievement, and most importantly, to remind other state governors where the tradition exists, of the urgent need to emulate the Ekiti State governor by  establishing the Council of Female Traditional Rulers in their respective states.

    Led by a researcher and the National Coordinator of Female Traditional Rulers, Prof. Fatai Olasupo of the Department of Local Government Studies, Faculty of Administration, Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, the female monarchs were full of praises for Governor Fayose for breaking the jinx.

    Prof. Olasupo, leading other researchers, unearthed the existence of female traditional rulers and has since remained the voice of the voiceless and suppressed female rulers in the country.

    The female traditional rulers said for many years, their male counterparts have suppressed them; a situation that makes them appear non-existent.

    They commended Governor Fayose for his courage.

    The spokesperson for the female traditional rulers, Prof. Olasupo who has been researching on the  traditional roles of female traditional rulers in Nigeria for the past 10 years, described the Ekiti State inauguration of Council of Female Traditional Rulers as a spectacular development.

    While calling on governors of other Southwest states to emulate Ekiti State governor, he said Governor Fayose  took bold step by convening a meeting of both the  Obas and their female counterparts to accord the female traditional rulers due recognition.

    He said: “A spectacular development has emerged from Ekiti State where “Prof.” Ayodele Fayose, as his people fondly call him, inaugurated National Council of Female Traditional Rulers in Nigeria–Ekiti State branch.

    “For the first time, Governor Fayose summoned male rulers and their female counterparts for a meeting at the Governor’s office. At the meeting, he assured the male and female monarchs of financial and administrative supports in their respective communities; thereby becoming the first level of government and governor to recognise the existence of female traditional rulers in Nigeria.”

    Prof. Olasupo urged other governors to start the process of establishing state Council of Female Traditional Rulers, most especially in the Southwest and other parts of the country.

    According to him, in his over 10 years of research into the existence and role of female traditional rulers in Nigeria, there is hardly any part of Nigeria where there are no female traditional rulers.

    “We have them all over the country as old as the culture and tradition of our people. The female traditional rulers have their separate kingdoms, cabinet and chiefs just as the Obas. So, there should be no disparity. No one should suppress the other. What is sauce for the goose is also sauce for the gander,” he said.

    Those in attendance at the meeting included Oba Rufus Adejugbe, the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti/Obabinrin (female king), Sonaike Abike the Eyegba of Ado-Ekiti ,  Oba Oluadeyemi, the Alara of Aramoko/Obabinrin (female king) Olaitan Dada, the Eyelebudu of Aramoko,  Oba Adetayo Adewole; the Ajero of Ijero/Obabinrin Eunice Bolatito Omidiji, the Eyegun of Ijero Kingdom, Oba Adeyeye Oladimeji (JP), the Onimesi of Imesi-Ekiti/Obabinrin (female king) Dahunsi Juliana; the Eyelobinrin of Imesi, Oba Adewumi Ajibade Fasiku, the Elekole of Ikole/ Obabinrin (female kings) Ogunmoroti; the Eyerojo Isaba Ikole,  Oba Sylvester Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, the Alawe of Ilawe /Obabinrin (female king) Elizabeth Odeyemi, the Eyelofi of Ilawe, Oba Samuel Oladapo Oyetade, the Ologotun of Ogotun/Obabinrin (female king) Esther Ajayi/the Eyeji of Ogotun, Oba (Dr.) Adesanya Emmanuel,  the Alaye of Obalufon/Obabinrin (female king), and  the Eyelobinrin of Efon-Alaaye, Oba Oluwole Ademolaju Adugbile.

    Also in attendance were the Oloye of Oye/Oguntoye Beatrice, the Eye of Oye, Oba Adejimi Adu, the Ogoga of Ikere/Obabinrin Eyesemoe of Ikere-Ekiti,  Oba Jacob Boluwade Adebiyi, the Alare of Are-Ekiti/Obaobinrin (female king) Ogundele Felecia, the Eyejumu of Are-Ekiti, Oba David Makanjuola, the Ajaja of Owatapa /Obabinrin (female  king) Onipede Felicia, the Eyelera of Itapa,  Oba Osalusi Oluwasola Joshua, the Olorun of Orun-Ekiti/ Ogunyemi B.I, the Eyelua of Orun-Ekiti, Oba Jacob Boluwade Adebiyi ,  the Alare of Are-Ekiti/ Obabinrin (female king) Ogundele Felicia , the Eyejumu of Are-Ekiti,  Oba Adediran Abigunade, the Olosi of Osi-Ekiti /Obabinrin (female kings) Akinbode Oyepeju,  the Eyesemoe of Osi-Ekiti,  Oba Edward Jayeola, the Arajaka of Igbara Odo/ Obabinrin (female king) Ajewole Bolanle, the Eyele of Igbara-Odo, Oba Omonigbehin Adejuwon Noah, the Olomuo of Omuo/ Obabinrin Bodunde Margret, the Yeye Abejoye of Omuo, Oba Adeleke Victor Bobade,  the Onire of Ire-Ekiti/Obabinrim (female king)  Bamigboye F.M., the Eyelaye of Ire-Ekiti,  Oba Isaac Adetoyinbo Ajayi,  the Elejelu of Ijelu-Ekiti/Obabinrin (female king) Fasuhanmi Toyin, the Eyelobinrin of Ijelu-Ekiti,  Oba Joseph Kayode Akinola, the Owa of Iludun-Ekiti/Obabinrin Kolawole, the Eyelode of Iludun-Ekiti,  Oba Jonathan Agboola Adeleye,  the Oniyo of Iyo-Ekiti/Obabinrin (female King) Fasuyi Aina,  Eyeleso of Iyo-Ekiti,  Oba Afolabi Felix Adeniyi, the Oniro of Iro-Ekiti/Obabinrin Ajulo Christiana,  the Eyelobinrin of Iro-Ekiti,  Oba Emmanuel Olukayode Ojo Fagbemi, the Elekota of Ikota-Ekiti/Akomolafe Kemi,  the Eyelowu of Ikota,  Oba Dare Ita Okunbobade III, the Owa Oroo of Agbado/ Obabinrin (female king) Ajayi Bolaji, the Eyelori of Agbado-Ekiti, Oba Adebisi Adelafe Ogunjobi, the Olorin of Orin-Odo-Ekiti/Obabinrin (female king). Adeyanju F.F.,  the Eyelara of Orin-Odo-Ekiti,  Oba Samuel Adetayo Fatoba,  the Alara of Ara-Ekiti/Obabinrin (female King) Rawaju  Felicia, the Eyelobinrin of Ara-Ekiti,  Oba Olaleye Oniyelu J.P. , the Apeju of Ilupeju-Ekiti/Obabinrin (female king) Fasanmi Florence, the Eyelobinrin of Ilupeju,  Oba Ogunleye Ebenezer Olubunmi, and the Onijaro of Ijaro/Obabinrin (female king) Owonfari B. Eyedofin of Ijaro-Ekiti ,  Oba James Olufemi,  the Onipere of Ipere-Ekiti/Obabinrin (female king) Ogunleye Grace,

    Others were the Eyedofin of Ipere-Ekiti, Oba Israel Adebayo, the Obalogun of Ilogun-Ekiti/Obabinrin (female king) Osunlusi Janet,  the Eyegun of Ilogun,  Oba Ajayi Oluwasesan Omolagba,  the Alasa of Ilasa/Obabinrin (female king) Ojerinde J. O.,  the Yeye Aro of Ilasa-Elite,   Oba Olowookeere Ojo, the Owa Olobo of Obo-Ekiti/Obabinrin (female king) Alabi Aina, the YeyeJero of Obo-Ekiti,  Oba Kupoluyi Ayodele Ayodeji, the Amuro of Temidire/Obabinrin (female king) Ajayi Florence,  the Eyegun of Temidire,  Oba Michael Olufemi Aladejana,  the Alaworoko of Iworoko/Obaobinrin (female king) Adeleye Rachael, the Eyesemore of Iworoko, Oba Bamidele Olatunji Adetutu,  the Elewu of Ewu-Ekiti/Obabinrin (female king) Olaoye Oyewumi, the Eyedole of Ewu-Ekiti,  Oba Samuel Agboola Osatuyi J.P., the Onijesha of Ijesamodu/Obabinrin (female king) Ogunde Alice, the Eyebaisa of Ijesamodu, Oba Aladegbemi Gabriel, the Olufaki of Ifaki-Ekiti/Obabinrin (female king) Owolabi Bolanle, the Eyemuju of Ifaki- Ekiti , Oba Olonibua Joel, the Oniropora of Iropora-Ekiti/Obabirin (female king) Fatomiluyi Bose, the Eyesomore of Iropora-Ekiti,  Oba Adeyemi Joakeem Afolabi, the Onijurin of Ijurin/Obabirin (female king) Adeyinka Adeosun, the Eyegun of Ijurin, and   Oba Afolabi Idowu Babade, the Onijaro of Oke Oro/Obabinrin (female king) Fadare A.M., the Eyemotu of Oke Oro.

    Prof. Olasupo, who also clamoured for a legislation to recognise female monarchs recalled the statement by the Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola at the first annual conference of Nigerian Political Science Association, Southwest zone, challenging the intellectuals to come up with enough findings to promote cultural synergy between the town and gown; saying that the intellectuals have, in reality, done more than enough but the governments never appreciated their research findings over the years.

    He said: “How many of research findings have government at all levels accepted and implemented.

    For example, among many others, was 10-year-old research into the existence of female traditional rulership in Nigeria.

    “It is exactly a decade this year that the existence of female traditional rulers in Nigeria was unearthed.”

    The don, therefore, urged other governors to begin the process of inaugurating a Council of Female Traditional Rulers as impetus to female rulers.

    His words: “I expect the people’s governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola to also summon a meeting of royal fathers and mothers not only in Ijesha land but wherever else in Osun State.”

  • Septuagenarian seeks recognition for traditional medicine

    Septuagenarian seeks recognition for traditional medicine

    Dr Debo Thompson is a cheerful  septuagenarian, with a penchant for making the world smile  through her healing prowess. On December 16,last year, she marked her 75 years birthday and celebrated her over 40 years of practice. OYEYEMI GBENGA-MUSTAPHA was at her Ajuwon, outskirts of Lagos residence where she spoke on several issues. 

    Dr Debo Thompson is a multi-talented natural health practitioner. She is a healer, iridologist,  herbalist, vintner, spices manu-facturer, and a faith-based practitioner rooted in Grail message.

    Sitting down with Dr Thompson at her apartment located inside Longing Estate, Femi Kuti Bus stop, Ajuwon revealed a woman who has much passion for the skill she practices, but not much energy nowadays to ply her trade now that she is 75 years old.  With a sharp gusto, she burst out in unruffled voice, “my yearning now is to pass my knowledge into the younger generation. I am willing to train as many people in the art of healing that I have excelled in. This is because I am getting old and there is no umbrella training school that can serve as the pedestal. The institutions that I know of are into production of products and not training per se.”

    Unaided, she moved round her apartment showing The Nation some of the herbal preparations, explaining their uses, their compositions, mode of preparation and how to preserve or store. Her eagle eyes did not spare the paper writings detailing her discoveries, contacts, observations, suggestions and usage .

    Dr Thompson said all these are results of her over 40 years of active practice. At 75, she reinstated for the umpteenth time that her utmost desire is to pass on her knowledge in traditional and alternative medicine garnered over the years.

    She was born on December 16, 1941. She said  that her love to bring healing to people gingered her interest in traditional medicine and later, into complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

    Dr Thompson known for her Lofties Bitters,  one of the earliest entries in the bitters drink world, said there are many challenges facing the development of traditional medicine in Nigeria.

    “One of the challenges facing us traditional medicine practitioners and our development is disunity. Despite the good intentions of the Federal Government in establishing The National Association of Nigerian Traditional Medicine Practitioners (NANTMP), there is lack of genuine oneness in the association. One does not readily feel the impact of this association as a practitioner.

    “In the same vein, I can’t point out the major projects the association embarked on that left practitioners better than when they did not join. That body should serve as the umbrella interest group that should be campaigning for the passage of traditional medicine bill. Too much power tussle is playing out. None seem to remember that a house divided against itself cannot stand,” said Dr Thompson philosophically.

    With shone eyes she recalled how she gave out books, shared her time and knowledge with the Nigerian Agency for Traditional Medicine, at Kofo Abayomi, Victoria Island at its infancy. “Today, I look back and I am happy that I did that. That is how we can be a benefit to our profession.  If I have not done that, today I may not be this happy and fulfilled. Though no monetary gain came from my effort but that agency is floating now and has become a well established government agency and doing a lot of documentation and research in our indigenous herbal medicine, what other joy can be more dignifying. And if you walk into their ‘Hall of Fame’, there are insignias and banners that will point all these out to generations yet unborn,” she beamed.

    To Dr Thompson, another challenge facing the practice is lack of funding due to non proper recognition of traditional medicine by the government.

    “You see, in places like China, Russia and Ghana when a person takes ill or is sick, he or she is asked how to be treated, either by orthodox or non orthodox way because the laws there recognise CAM and traditional medicine. But here in Nigeria, it is a one way hugely favouring orthodox medicine.

    “There is an urgent need for a paradigm shift in the health sector. What is good for the goose is good for the gander. Let the government stop paying lip service to traditional medicine. There is a huge FOREX inherent in it, if only the government will do the needful as stipulated by the World Health Organisation (WHO),” said Dr Thompson.

    She said part of the ill bedeviling traditional medicine is lack of a national training institute, “what we have are plethora of private schools by the effort of individuals or groups being run by personal monies. Nigeria can turn the fortune of many around by looking the way of our natural flora and fauna. Small scale enterprises can spring up. And the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) can also be looked into for downward review of costs of registration among others.

    “I  have passion to pass on my knowledge in winery, spices mixture and manufacturing, iridology and herbalism. I will take up any serious individual or group of people. You can see all around me, my inventions and discoveries for the healing and pleasure of mankind, as I am ageing,” said Dr Thompson.

    At 75,she is  popularly called Dr Debo, the Septuagenarian, with the Sagittarian spirit in her, is frank, courageous, and optimistic that traditional medicine will take its rightful place in the health sector, one day.

    Dr Thompson can be described as an achiever, so the best one can do to keep her thoughts is perhaps to share in her quest, appreciate her wisdom and respect her opinions.

    Indeed, time spent with her portrays Dr Thompson, the Sagittarius woman as the typically natural scholar, who loves both to learn and teach, making conversations highly stimulating and rewarding.

  • Judicial recognition of Western Sahara

    Western Sahara is a territory in North-West Africa which was colonised by the Kingdom of Spain at the end of the 19th century. Based on a demand by Morocco, it was added to the list of non-self-governing territories by the United Nations in 1963 pursuant to Article 73 of the United Nations Charter. In 1965, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution calling on Spain to decolonise the territory. A year later, the UN asked Spain to conduct a referendum on self-determination in the territory. As the resolution was ignored by Spain, the Polisario Front began armed struggle for independence in 1973. Even though colonial rule ended in 1975, Spain illegally handed over the administrative control of the territory to Mauritania and Morocco despite the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice which had recognised the right of the Saharawi people to self-determination.

    However, the annexation led to a war between both countries and the Saharawi national liberation movement, the Polisario Front, which had proclaimed the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR).  Although Mauritania withdrew from the territory in 1979, the war of independence continued between Morocco and the SADR backed by Algeria. After 15 years of the armed conflict, both Morocco and the Polisario Front reached a ceasefire agreement on the ground that Morocco would organise a referendum for self-determination in Western Sahara. Notwithstanding that the 1991 agreement was brokered by the United Nations, Morocco has refused to organise the referendum. With the connivance of leading western governments notably United States and France (the major arms suppliers to Morocco), Rabat has defied all resolutions of the United Nations for the peaceful resolution of the struggle of the Saharawi people for self-determination.

    Thus, Morocco has continued to occupy the largest part of the territory including the major towns and rich natural resources mainly phosphates, agriculture and fishery products. A smaller part of the territory is however controlled by the Polisario Front whose legitimacy has been recognised by the United Nations and the African Union. The mineral resources of the territory which are illegally exploited by Morocco are exported to the United States and the European Union member states. In 2000, Morocco and the EU entered into a trade agreement which was reviewed and consolidated by the 2012 Morocco-EU Liberalisation Agreement to facilitate the exploitation of agricultural products, processed agricultural products as well as fish and fishery products.

    However, the legal validity of the both agreements was challenged by the Polisario Front in a suit filed at the European Court of Human Rights on November 19, 2012. Essentially the case alleged that the agreements violated the human right of the Saharawi people to self-determination. In a historic judgment delivered by the Court on December 10, 2015, the agreements were annulled on the grounds that the term “the territory of the Kingdom of Morocco” therein was understood to encompass Western Sahara. It was further held that the agreements had failed to take cognisance of the fact  that the exploitation of the natural resources of the territory of Western Sahara under the occupation and control of Morocco was likely to be to the detriment of its inhabitants and to infringe their fundamental rights.

    Not surprisingly, Morocco reacted to the judgment by temporarily freezing diplomatic relations with the EU. Equally dissatisfied with the judgment the European Council and Commission and five countries (France, Germany, Spain, Belgium and Portugal) challenged it on appeal by seeking for its annulment at the Court of Justice. Thus, following an expedited procedure adopted at the request of the European Council, the Court took arguments from the parties. In its ruling of December 21, 2016, the Court upheld the appeal. However, the Court categorically stated that in view of the separate and distinct status guaranteed to the territory of Western Sahara under the Charter of the United Nations and the principle of self-determination of peoples, it cannot be said that the term ‘’territory of the Kingdom of Morocco’’ which defines the territorial scope of the Association and Liberalisation Agreements, encompass Western Sahara and, therefore that those agreements are applicable to that territory.

    Furthermore and more significantly, the Court held that in view of the Advisory Opinion on Western Sahara handed down in 1975 by the International Court of Justice at the request of the United Nations General Assembly, the people of that territory must be regarded as a third party which may be affected by the implementation of the Liberalisation Agreement. In the present case, it is not apparent that that Saharawi people consented to the agreement being applied to Western Sahara. Having concluded that the Liberalisation Agreement does not apply to the territory of Western Sahara, the Court set aside the judgment of the General Court on the ground that the Polisario Front is not concerned by the decision of the European Council to conclude that agreement.

    The legal implication of the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights is that all EU agreements and treaties with Morocco cannot apply to the territory of Western Sahara. This is a major legal blow to the claim of Morocco over the occupation of the territory. Indeed, it is a judicial confirmation of Western Sahara as a separate territory distinct from the Kingdom of Morocco in line with the unimpeachable Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice of 1975. In his reaction to the epochal judgment of the European Court, Mr. Mohammed Sidati, the Polisario Front’s envoy to Europe has correctly asserted that “EU complicity in the exploitation of Western Sahara’s natural resources is a violation of international law, an obstacle to the peaceful resolution to the conflict, and a stain on the EU’s reputation”.

    Morocco and the EU members are totally shocked by the decision of the European Court of Human Rights on the legal status of Western Sahara. The shock was captured by Morocco’s foreign minister, Salaheddine Mezouar and the EU’s high representative for foreign affairs, Federica Mogherini who responded  jointly by  saying that “Both sides will examine all possible implications of the court’s judgment and will work together on any  issue relating to its application”. Unlike the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice which has been disregarded by Morocco and her allies, the judgment of the European Court is binding on all the parties. Aside the parties to the dispute, the judgment has implications for other trading partners of Morocco.  Thus, by the judgment, any agreement between Morocco and other countries or companies which covers the occupied territory is liable to be challenged by the Polisario Front in municipal and international tribunals.

    In view of the financial risk of investing in Western Sahara with the approval of Morocco, the Polisario Front has invited governments and corporate bodies involved to legalise their activities by seeking the consent of the representatives of the Saharawi people. The caveat emptor issued by the Polisario Front is a warning to the Government of Nigeria which is currently negotiating a deal with Morocco for a natural gas pipeline that would pass through the territory of Western Sahara. To avoid unnecessary litigation arising from the proposed commercial agreement, the Buhari administration is advised to include representatives of the Polisario Front in the negotiations in line with the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights in the case of the Council of the European Union & Ors v Polisario Front.

    Finally, Morocco which withdrew from the Organisation of African Unity in 1984 upon the admission of the SADR to the body, has applied to join the African Union. As a precondition for joining the continental body, Morocco should be made to withdraw completely from the occupied territory of Western Sahara in line with the resolutions of the United Nations on the right of the Saharawi people to self-determination, the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice of 1975 and the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights to the effect that Western Sahara is not part of the Kingdom of Morocco. In particular, the attention of Morocco should be drawn to one of the principal objectives of the African Union to defend the sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of the member states including Western Sahara.

  • Senior citizens seek govt recognition

    Senior citizens have called on the Federal Government to give them “proper recognition”.

    They made the call at this year’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Senior Citizens Association of Nigeria in Lagos.

    National President Elder Ebenezer Akinbadipe said senior citizens served the country in various capacities, noting that it’s unfair for the government to neglect them.

    “We want the government to recognise us, let them put us in their programme as it is done in the United States. Government should carry us along with what it is doing for the country… Senior citizens deserve respect and care.”

    The National Secretary, Mrs. Ade Fagbemi, called on the government to have a welfare package for the aged.

    She urged the government to provide senior citizens with free medical services and free transportation and give them opportunity for social work.

    She identified some of the objectives of the association to include promotion of interaction among the elderly, make them self reliant despite the challenges of ageing, create awareness for elder’s existence and care, and to promote love among the elderly.

    In his lecture titled: “Tips on longevity without ageing”, Dr Samuel Oyegbile urged the elders to adopt a healthy lifestyle by eating fresh fruits and vegetables, avoiding fried food, getting adequate sleep, avoiding harmful substances and avoiding emotional stress.

    He added that they must also avoid injury or overexertion.

    “They must avoid exposure to harmful sun rays, avoid obesity, engage in physical exercise and fitness, and they must ensure steaming, boiling, poaching and slow cooking of food with low heat,” he said.

    He said elders must know and watch their blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol level, body mass index and their age.

  • Herbert Wigwe in moment of glory …as Access Bank wins double recognition

    Herbert Wigwe in moment of glory …as Access Bank wins double recognition

    SOME are born great, some achieve greatness while others have greatness thrust upon them. Herbert Wigwe, the Managing Director of Access Bank Plc could be said to belong to the first category, having climbed the ladder of success through hard work and perseverance.

    The winsome helmsman bank executive may also have had greatness thrust upon him in the form of the awards and recognitions he has been enjoying from his peers in the banking industry. As the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank, Wigwe was recently voted the Bank Chief Executive Officer of the Year at the annual BusinessDay Awards.

    To make it a doubly joyous occasion, Access Bank, which he has headed since the departure of his immediate predecessor, Aig Imhokhuede, in 2013, also carted home the Bank of the Year award.

    And while he is basking in the euphoria of his accolades, the banking guru remains his humble self, attributing his accomplishments to the support and cooperation of the staff and customers of Access Bank.