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  • Odebunmi Ifedayo Fadekemi: Working with celebrities very inspiring

    Odebunmi Ifedayo Fadekemi: Working with celebrities very inspiring

    Odebunmi Ifedayo Fadekemi is the CEO and Creative Director of SofTouch Couture, Soft Ivory Men, and My Soft Ivory. The brand interest cut across male and female luxury wear and essentials.

    Happily, she goes down memory lane to recall how it all started while in the university and improved on her skills by attending a fashion school; Felenge Couture.

    Since then, she has steadily styled and designed for a number of our celebrities.  In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, the graduate of Computer Science takes you into her world, memorable moments, plans for 2024, and more.

    What is your plan or projections for 2024?

    Looking back I must say that the year 2023 was very interesting and we achieved a number of the things we set out to achieve at the beginning of last year. This year we will consolidate our plans and take the brand to the next level. My plan for 2024 is to go global, create more visibility, and satisfy our clients locally and on the global scene.

    The economy is tough, what keeps you going?

    The crux of the matter is that the economy is affecting a lot of businesses and Nigerians in general. However, I am not deterred because my focus is on God. This is  because without him I don’t think I would be here, His grace keeps me going. 

    Did you ever feel like quitting?

    I am a strong lady and I am motivated by the urge to make a difference. I must say that the challenges spurred me to do more. No matter the obstacle, I have not been discouraged, I never thought of quitting. Instead, it allows me to look for alternatives and find solutions to any present situation that I find myself in.

    What are the other things that occupy your time?

    I really can’t call myself a loner because I like to attend social events and network with other people.  Usually, if I am not working I am likely to be in a group meeting, or trying to get another means of income.

     How would you rate the performance of our designers?

    Nigerian designers are like some of the best designers in the world. They are very determined and creative, and as I speak you discover that the level of our creativity now is one hundred percent. The things and collections that I see across the country are inspiring and I am happy we are now one of the best designers worldwide.

    Did you have special training in fashion designing?

    Yes, I do. I learned the skill and went into the sector while I was at the university. I started small and got patronage from family and friends. I went deeply by going to a fashion school; Felenge Couture.

    How long have you been into fashion design?

    I have been into fashion for about ten years now but it started as a passion and the business started to grow gradually and I am happy about the journey so far. 

    What factors have contributed to your success in the industry?

    I must say that my determination, dedication, and perseverance have helped me. In addition, being strategic, following my passion, and monitoring and evaluation have helped me. The media and how the industry has evolved have also played a major part in my growth and development.

    What inspired your brand name, Softouch’?

    My brand name was DAYO’s clothing when we first started but at a point, we needed to rebrand. That was when I thought of taking the name of the brand to another level and I am glad that I made that decision then. I wanted a name, something everyone all over the world could pronounce because I saw my brand going International, even though I was just starting.

     I also wanted something that can give meaning to the ear. So, on that fateful day, I was listening to a song that had just been released by FALZ; a Nigerian musician, the song is titled ‘ SOFTWORK’ and that was the year 2015.

    Read Also: Tinubu advocates equitable capital market access for developing countries

    There and then I fell in love with the name SOFT and I decided to put it down with the other names that I have been compelling in my notes. I met with my boyfriend back then now my fiancé, I gave him the list that ‘Oh I want to change my business name ‘and that we should pick something together to cut the story short he also picked SOFT, but we were like oh why just soft then we but concluded in adding touch to it,” like something that is Soft and can be touch. That’s where the inspiration came from.

     How affordable are your designs?

    My clothes are pocket-friendly. Something that can be worn by different people, in different unique ways. Every collection is different and you will always find something interesting for everyone. We always try to add little details that make a difference,   we make outfits that are unusual and creative.

    Are you planning to unveil a new collection, can you tell us more about it?

    Yes, I am unveiling a new collection

    And we have 10  extraordinary bridal pieces to unveil. 

    Can you mention some of your celebrity clients?

    I have worked with some celebrities and the list includes Anita Joseph (Actress), Chichi (Big Brother Naija Housemate), Nkechi Blessing (Actress), Gleeoflife (hair guru), Dayo Amusa (Actress), Saskay (Big Brother Naija Housemate), Funmi Awelawa (Actress), Maria Chike (Big Brother Naija Housemate ) and more. I must say that working with celebrities has been very inspiring, they bring out the best in me.

    Which other celebrities would you love to style?

    I would love to style Tiwa Savage because I love her personality. Then, Chioma Ikokwu known as Chioma Goodhair, I love her fashion world. Lastly, Toke Makinwa, I love her charisma.

    What are the challenges you face as a Nigerian entrepreneur?

    Honestly, business in Nigeria isn’t for the weak and it hasn’t been easy running mine due to poor infrastructure (electricity), bad economy, and lack of funds opportunities.

     How has the current state of the economy affected your business, and what do you think the government can do to help?

    It has affected my business because mostly I order some items outside the country. The dollar rate is alarming and it’s causing my business difficulties. To convince some clients to pay more is always tasking. Some of them can’t even afford the price. I wish the government could look into our money exchange and help business owners.

     Who are your industry inspirations or mentors?

    I don’t have anyone. I practically inspire myself.

    Can you mention some fashion shows you have graced?

    I do not attend fashion shows because of my tight schedule. It has been work, work, and more work. Most of the time I spent at my workshop as well as training others. But I was able to participate in a show titled Zeena and ZARA. It was very interesting with lots of lessons learnt. Look forward to doing more of that this year. 

    Which runway show do you look forward to featuring?

    London Fashion Week, London Fashion Gala, GT Fashion Show.

    What are your plans for your brand?

    To be global. To be a happy woman, you need to give yourself attention, relax, and focus on touching lives. Your peace of mind and contentment are also very important.

     Tell us about your personal style?

    Personal style is an integral part of a fashion designer’s identity. My personal style can be described as bold, edgy, and eclectic. I love experimenting with unique silhouettes, unexpected color combinations, and incorporating avant-garde elements into my designs. I find inspiration from a variety of sources, including art, culture, and street fashion, and strive to create pieces that are both visually striking and empowering for the wearer.

    How do you relax?

    Relaxation is crucial to maintain a healthy work-life balance as a fashion designer. To unwind, I enjoy practicing meditating to clear my mind and find inner peace. I also love spending time with nature,  going for a movie and engaging in activities that I’m passionate about. I like reading fashion magazines or attending art exhibitions. They actually also help me relax and recharge creatively.

     Tell us about life as an entrepreneur and your survival strategies?

    Life as an entrepreneur in the fashion industry can be challenging yet rewarding. It requires perseverance, dedication, and a strong work ethic. Survival strategies include having a clear vision and mission for my brand, focusing on creating high-quality products, and understanding and adapting to market trends. Networking and building relationships with industry professionals have also been instrumental in expanding my brand’s reach and opening doors for new opportunities.

    What advice do you have for young people who want to come into the sector?

    For young people aspiring to enter the fashion sector, my advice is to develop a strong foundation in design and technique. Pursue formal education in fashion, gain experience through internships or apprenticeships, and stay updated on industry trends. You also need to build a portfolio that showcases your creativity and individual style. You must be prepared to work hard and embrace failure as a learning curve. Networking and building industry relationships are vital, so attend fashion events, join professional organizations, and collaborate with fellow creatives.

      Where do you see your brand in the next few years?

    In the next few years, I envision my brand expanding its global presence, collaborating with influential fashion houses, and showcasing collections on international runways. I aim to continue pushing the boundaries of design, incorporating sustainable practices into my brand, and becoming a leading force in the fashion industry. Through strategic marketing and brand development, I plan to attract a wide customer base and establish a strong brand identity that resonates with fashion-forward individuals?

    Let’s talk about your pieces and what makes them different and unique?

    The natural world inspires my fashion design, it provides a wealth of inspiration, such as organic shapes, patterns, colors, and textures found in flora, fauna, and landscapes. 

    Also art and culture has been very useful. As a designer, visual arts, paintings, sculptures, music, films, and various cultural traditions  sparks  creativity and influence design themes, motifs, and aesthetics.

    Examining fashion from different periods and diving into vintage clothing inspires me a lot.

    I would also say advancements in technology, materials, and techniques have pushed the boundaries of my fashion design, leading to innovative and futuristic creations.

     Lastly, collaborating with other creative minds, such as artists, musicians, or architects has given vast inspiration to what I do.

  • Atiku confirmed PDP is working with INEC, says Oshiomhole

    TO All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman Adams Oshiomhole, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar has vindicated the ruling party’s claim that the opposition was working with some officials of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to compromise the Presidential and National Assembly elections.

    Oshiomhole, who addressed reporters last night, said it had become clearer that the only mission of the PDP candidate “is to cause confusion in the electoral system so that he will become President even it means presiding over graves”.

    According to him, only those who want to deploy thugs to undermine the elections will oppose and find fault with the statement of the President aimed at discouraging thuggery during the election.

    Oshiomhole said the attention of the international community at the moment is that elections across the world should be violent-free and assured that the forthcoming elections will be conducted in a free and fair atmosphere.

    He said: “It is only those who believe in thuggery that will find fault with the President’s directive. Is there anyone that would want to vote for thuggery? Is there any thug that is not armed? You cannot snatch ballot box without the aid of firearms. So, when the international community is talking about violence-free election, they are saying the election should be free of thuggery.

    “You can see that the PDP is not at home with that because they imported thuggery, institutionalised it and have always fallen back on it as instrument of rigging and to dominate the electorates. So, we debunk any attempt by Atiku to change the essence of the President’s statement.

    “I believe the President spoke the kind of the average Nigerian who wants to go and vote and come home in peace without fear of being attacked. You know that thuggery is synonymous with violence and the world is unanimous that violence should be removed from election.

    Atiku’s rejection exposes PDP for what they are. Their plan is to deploy thugs so that the election will be impossible or reduce voter turnout.

    “To say that the APC imported card reader is laughable and that the card readers have been deployed to the Southsouth and Southeast. The implication of this is, assuming it is true without conceding, it means that Atiku is working hand in hand with the ICT unit in INEC to know the kind of machines that are deployed to where.

    “Recognising that INEC is Independent, we are not able to know the kind of card readers INEC is deploying or where they were imported from. But if Atiku has all of these details, it can only mean that he is working hand in hand with people within INEC to know where machines are imported from and the fact that card readers can be programmed otherwise.

    “We are not like a stammers who look for a fight because they cannot win an argument. We believe that the electorates are ready to vote for us and we want those votes to take place in a free and fair atmosphere.

    “I think that Nigerians should be united when it comes to the issue of a free and fair election. Our candidate is saddled with the responsibility for peace and security of Nigerians. He has the duty to ensure that the live of the Nigerian electorate is protected as well as those of the observers. That is the responsibility of the Commander-in-Chief.”

    Read also: EFCC detains Atiku’s man over $4m cash haul

    “So, if Atiku finds fault in this, if anybody is pro thuggery, we are against thuggery and we are against violence. The International community should properly decode Atiku’s statement sling the president to withdraw his threat not against the electorates, but against would be thugs or merchants of violence.

    “As far as I am concern, Atiku knows that he can’t win. In 2003 elections, he lost his base in Adamawa. He is on record to have procured a senatorial seat for Prof. Jibrin Aminu. If he wants to go to court, I will meet him there and I will produce the first INEC documented report that announced the winners of those senatorial seats.”

    The APC chair predicted that the PDP candidate will lose in his Adamawa home state.

    “We are ready for the elections and by the grace of God, Nigerians will vote for us and Atiku will remain a permanent presidential candidate which Nigerians never had,” Oshiomhole said.

    Reacting to the reports credited to Atiku and the PDP National Chairman, Uche Secondus, Oshiomhole said: “This afternoon, we monitored the statement by the PDP candidate, Atiku Abubakar and the PDP national chairman, Uche Secondus in which they tried to distort the message which of the President who reassured Nigerians that he has given appropriate directive to security agents to ensure that Saturday election is free and fair.

    “From the response of the PDP candidate, it is clear that they have already conceded defeat. First, he claimed that he has two stronghold which he identified as Southsouth and Southeast. That is not true because I come from the Southsouth and we are not voting Atiku. We have since dismantled the PDP machine in Edo state and Edo is the heart beat of the Nation.

    “Even If you take the statement in its face value, if Atiku concedes that out of six geopolitical zones, he has support not in his own zone, but Southsouth and Southeast, the voting population in these two zones are not enough to deliver the presidency to any candidate in Nigeria.”

    According to him, every peace-loving Nigerian and those who wish Nigeria are yearning for fair and violent-free elections.

    He said: “What the President said and we are proud that he has courage to say it that he has asked security agents to create an enabling environment for Nigerians to out and vote without fear that thugs will attack them and that security agents are going to put thugs in check. No peace loving Nigerian can find fault with that,” Oshiomhole said.

    Recalling how thugs were used to rig elections when Atiku held the forte as vice president, the APC chair said: “I think it does expose PDP for what they are. Atiku as vice president to Obasanjo was there in 2003 when people were killed by thugs. In my election in 2007, three young men were shut down by PDP thugs at Oba Primary school. So, no responsible candidate will find fault with any pronouncement that tends to discourage thuggery in the coming elections.

    “For a man who is aspiring to preside over Nigeria to seek protection for thuggery is uncalled for. He has already said he will grant amnesty to looters. I don’t think Nigerians have any basis to doubt that Atiku’s mission is to set Nigeria on fire so that he can become President, even If he will preside over a graveyard.”

  • Saraki’s acquittal: Judiciary is working, says Buhari

    President Muhammadu Buhari has hailed the judiciary for its commitment despite various challenges.

    Buhari, reacting yesterday to Friday’s acquittal of Senate President Bukola Saraki by the Supreme Court of wrong declaration of assets, said the judicial system is truly working irrespective of the challenges it is facing.

    No one, he said, should therefore be allowed to undermine or break it.

    “I have seen many instances where individuals and groups seek the destruction of the judicial institution in the foolish thinking of saving their skin, instead of going through the painstaking process of establishing their innocence,” Buhari’s  Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, quoted him as saying in a statement in Abuja.

    He added:”In the case of the Senate president, Bukola Saraki, I have seen him take the tortuous path of using the judicial process.

    “He persevered, and in the end, the highest court of the land, the Supreme Court, says he is not guilty as charged.

    “This is what I have done in the three elections in which I was cheated out, before God made it possible for me to come here the fourth time I ran for the office.”

    The president said the Senate president’s journey from the lowest to the highest court of the land provides an important example for Nigerians to emulate.

     

  • Nissan working on car to read drivers’ minds

    Car giant Nissan has revealed technology that could help cars of the future read the minds of drivers and speed up vehicle reactions.

    The Japanese firm has announced the first details of research into what it is calling Brain-to-Vehicle (B2V) technology, which uses brainwave-reading tech to spot signals related to movement – such as turning the wheel or pressing a pedal.

    Nissan said being able to predict such events and applying it to driver assistance tools will speed up reaction times and improve manual driving.

    Nissan Executive Vice-President Daniele Schillaci said: “When most people think about autonomous driving, they have a very impersonal vision of the future, where humans relinquish control to the machines.

    “Yet, B2V technology does the opposite, by using signals from their own brain to make the drive even more exciting and enjoyable.”

    Nissan said the technology will use a special headset worn by the driver to monitor brain signs, and can also be used if and when a car is in autonomous mode – changing in-car comfort settings if it senses discomfort.

    The firm added that its technology has the ability to enable a car to take action between 0.2 and 0.5 seconds faster once it detects intended movement from the driver.

  • ‘Ambode working to give Lagosians water’

    ‘Ambode working to give Lagosians water’

    Governor Akinwunmi Ambode is working to give Lagosians potable water by supporting water projects, the Managing Director of Lagos Water Corporation, Mr. Muminu Badmus, has said.

    Badmus, an engineer, who spoke yesterday at a stakeholders’ meeting on network extension of water distribution to Ogudu Ori-Oke in Kosofe Local Government, said residents of the community would have access to potable water on completion of the project.

    He said: “I thank our amiable and hardworking Governor Ambode for assisting Lagos Water Corporation to provide drinkable water for Lagosians. He has fulfilled the promise he made to Ogudu Ori-Oke residents a few months ago through the commencement of this project.

    “Today we are holding a truly significant forum, because water is life and nobody survives without it. This is why Lagos State government places high premium on the interest of the people and believes that water is key for the survival of residents. Every household must have access to potable water. This is why the government is committed to ensuring that this community is provided with uninterrupted water supply through this network extension that will be supplied from Adiyan Waterworks of 70MGD. The reticulation will cover Ogudu Ori-Oke, boost pressure to parts of Alapere and other neighbouring communities and will later be expanded to accommodate more households.

    “The project is part of government’s efforts to strengthen water supply network, increase operational efficiency and water flow capacity to meet the demand for water and contribute to development. It is a demonstration of government’s appreciation of the cooperation and support residents of this community have given to the Governor Ambode administration. It is our hope that you will continue to cooperate with the government in its desire to transform Lagos.

    “This project is being undertaken by Salini Nigeria Ltd. The contractor is undertaking 70MGD Adiyan Phase II. It has been our good partner by executing our projects in consonance with the specifications and standards. When the reticulation is completed, the connected properties will be metered to assist us in ensuring efficiency and reliability of our water networks and reducing wastages.”

    The Managing Director of Salini Nigeria Ltd, Mr. Paolo Capelala, said: “We will support Lagos State Water Corporation to provide potable water for Lagosians.”

  • ‘No special privilege working for my father’

    ‘No special privilege working for my father’

    Adeline Adedoyin-Adeyemi, the pretty daughter of the founder of the Oduduwa University Ipetumodu (OUI), Chief Ramon Adedoyin, rose through the ranks to become the registrar of the OUI. Adeyemi possesses multiple degrees.  She was an Executive Assistant to the President, a post that required her to take a decision on behalf of the president of the institution. In this interview with GBENGA ADERANTI, she shares her experience on what it takes to manage an educational institution like OUI, family business, her dreams among other issues

     

    At what point did you assume the position of the Executive Assistant to the President of OUI?

    I was appointed as the Executive Assistant to the President when the work of the proprietor of Oduduwa University greatly increased. As you are aware, Dr. Ramon Adedoyin has three universities and two polytechnics both in Nigeria and overseas apart from a vast business empire which transcends hospitality, property, finance, health etc. Consequently, there was the need for a helping hand in this sphere, particularly in the areas of policy formulation and fast decision making. So, I can say I was the helping hand at that time. Meanwhile, while doing this, I still combined some other assignments. I was still then the Director of Examinations and Records Unit, and later moved to the College of Post Graduate Studies.

    What were your major duties then?

    The major roles then were basically policy planning and implementation, decision making,  scheduling executive meetings and appointments. I also served as a channel and the bridge between our entire conglomerate and Dr. Adedoyin.

    How does it feel to work with your father?

    First of all, when it comes to work, father and daughter relationship does not come into play. I don’t enjoy any special privilege. I’m being treated like any other worker you see around.  So, the issue of paternity affinity does not arise at all. However, like every other worker would say, working with him and in the entire business empire is good, but you must work very hard; because when it comes to the issue of work, there is no father-daughter relationship but that of employer-employee.  Actually, you learn more.

    Would you have performed better as a male registrar?

    In the academic settings, the issue of sex does not matter. What matters is your qualifications and experience. And when you look at my credentials, you can see that I am eminently qualified for the office. To God be the glory, ever since I assumed this office, everything has been going on perfectly. We have full accreditations for all our courses by the National Universities Commission. Our postgraduate college has taken off successfully. Also, preparations are in top gear to start Nursing, Medicine and Law because the buildings that will house the colleges are about 90% completed. Thus, you can see that the university is developing very fast among its contemporaries.

    What does it take to manage an educational institution like OUI?

    It takes the grace of God.  Leadership is a call to service. So it takes discipline, sacrifice, adequate planning, accountability and exposure.

    What were you doing before the present appointment?

    I was the Deputy Registrar/Secretary, College of Postgraduate Studies.

    Why are you so attracted to education when you could as well do something else?

    I am attracted to education probably because it is inborn and I also have passion for education and I possess multiple degrees in it.  So I’m keen to see to the development of education in Nigeria; particularly as related to the development of human person.

    What have you done to improve the standard of the school?

    A lot has been put in place to ensure that there is an improvement in the standard of the university. For instance, all our courses are duly accredited by National Universities Commission. We hold college orientation programme once in a month for our students at their respective colleges. We have a counselling unit for students. Our lecturers attend seminars and conferences both within and outside the country in order to enlighten and broaden their knowledge in their fields. We also provide financial assistance to indigent students, and also loans and financial assistance to staff for self-development or asset acquisition.

    What did you find challenging about this job and how did you manage to surmount it?

    Challenges do come but the ability to surmount them is the key.  There is no work/job that does not have its challenges. God has given me the grace to surmount them.

    Tell me the bad, the good and the ugly side of your job

    I have not experienced any ugly side on the job. However, it is not that everything has been going on smoothly.  It takes God (prayer),hardwork, integrity, discipline.

    Unlike before, women are now economically buoyant and equally successful in terms of career. In your opinion, what could have been responsible for this?

    I think the era of women staying at home and not be heard has gone. Now women are taking their places in the comity of nations, and are at par with men in terms of educational standing and qualifications, skills for the jobs and experience.

    Note that men too are economically buoyant but women are good managers.

    At what point did you decide to take up this job and why?

    Note that firstly, I was vigorously interviewed and drilled by the management and I was found capable. Thereafter, I decided to take this job when I sought the face of God and was convinced within that God has a hand in it. More so, I believe it is a call to service.

    Would you have preferred to do something else if you had the opportunity?

    Yes, maybe have my own primary and secondary schools.  And this is not too  late by the grace of God.

    How do you manage men especially the elderly ones since most times ego comes into play?

    By  being respectful, assertive and polite on every occasion.

    Tell me how you are preparing your graduates for self-employment in the face of unemployment in the country?

    Our vision is to provide a well – balanced education without discrimination, for the production of versatile graduates with capacity for entrepreneurship for the development of the nation.

    To materialise this vision, we have a programme here in Oduduwa University called ‘Entrepreneurship Programme’ where we train our students to be self employed/self-reliant when they get to the labour market rather waiting for white collar jobs. Each student is expected to pick one skilled vocation to learn for a certain period of time, and we do award a separate certificate for this.

  • ‘Abia is working under Ikpeazu’

    ‘Abia is working under Ikpeazu’

    Enyinnaya Appolos is the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State. In this interview with reporters in Umuahia, the state capital, he speaks about the challenges and achievements of the governor in the last two years. Excerpts:

    On May 29, 2017, Governor Ikpeazu will be two years in office. How has the journey been?
    Indeed, May 29, 2017 is around the corner and will make it two years that Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu became the 4th democratically elected governor of Abia State. So far it’s been almost two years of challenges and experiences, at the same time, two years of achievements and development at a scale Abia has never witnessed since 1999. In a nutshell, it’s been a fulfilling and rewarding two years for the people of Abia State. The period has also opened our eyes to the political realities in the state which may not have been factored in when the administration came to being. It has also made both the governor and the people of the state to really know what is at stake in the state.
    What are the challenges?
    When this government started in 2015, we didn’t know the country was going into economic recession, but apparently divinely inspired, the governor’s first policy when he came in was to cut down his salary and allowances as well as that of everyone of his aides by 50 percent. Whatever the governor is getting today as his salary is half of what it is supposed to be. As common and as ordinary as I am, whatever I am getting today as salary in this office as CPS is 50 percent of what it is supposed to be. What provoked this decision was that this government wanted to save; wanted avenues to save more money so that we can do more work for the people. When Governor Ikpeazu took this decision, Nigerians didn’t know, other states didn’t know that we are going to be hit by recession, but lo and behold that’s where we are today as a nation, with the monthly allocation from the Federal Government to the states drastically reduced. Today, states like Abia which in the immediate past used to get as much as N6b monthly, can not even boost of N3b; for some months it was slightly above N1b and around that range. Even the IGR of the state has also been affected by this recession, but wisdom and prudence on the side of our Governor has really helped to drive the vehicle of the state up to this point.
    How did your boss manage the recent Paris club refund, and the bailout fund he got in 2015?
    Yes, Abia State got N10.6b from the Paris Club refund. If you remember, the federal government pleaded with states to use 50% of whatever they got to clear up the issue of salary and pension. For us in Abia, 50 % of our N10.6b is N5.3b. What the governor did was first of all, to get approval of the Abia State House of Assembly to spend the money.
    The House approved the request of the State Governor to spend the N10.6b accrued to Abia State from the Paris club debt refund as follows:
    N5.3 billion on Salary arrears and pensions.
    N1.7 billion on road constructions.
    N2.5 billion  on bridges.
    N685 million on Hospitals
    N200 million for street lighting.
    On the issue of bailout fund, in 2015 when the federal government was giving bailouts to states, Abia State applied for a bailout of N30 billion from the federal government, but got N14.152. The bailout was specifically for payment of salaries and pensions. The Governor immediately constituted a committee with Mr. Obinna Oriaku, the Commissioner for Finance, who was then the Special Adviser to Governor on Economic Matters as chairman, and handed over same amount to them for disbursement. Other members of the committee included the state chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, the state chairman of Trade Union Congress and Chairman, Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, NULGE.
    Others are: Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs; Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Administration; office of the Head of Service and the Accountant-General of the state, the Auditor-General, and the Statistician-General.
    Let me recall your mind to the fact that when the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) listed states that allegedly mismanaged their bailout fund, Abia was not among. Instead Abia was among those that applied prudence in the managment of the fund.
    So, in a nutshell, the N14b bailout fund and the N10.6b Paris Club refund were prudently managed by the Abia State government with the leadership of the civil societies in the state. It was because of how these funds were managed that made NULGE to give the Governor a recognition recently. It’s a pity that some politically frustrated elements in the state, who play politics with everything still talk about these funds with unfounded allegations.
    What are the achievements of the government?
    Plenty. During the campaigns, the governor made promises and one of the major promises he made was that he was going to develop Abia from resources gotten from Aba. The governor knew then that in future Nigeria would no longer depend on oil as the mainstay of the economy and source of her revenue and if it becomes so, what’s going to be the fate of Abia that is not even a major oil producing state and that was exactly what led into what we now call the five pillars of development upon which this government is working on. In developing those pillars, the Governor was looking at the natural areas of strength of the state, where we have competitive advantage over others, which translates to what we have that other states do not have or at least not enough of and we came to realise that we have Aba, which no other state in Nigeria has. Before now, the road infrastructure in Aba was nothing to write home about and this government decided to tackle head on the issue road infrastructure in Aba as one of the enablers for strengthening the premier commercial cum industrial orientation of the state and her people.
    Hence, the governor who assumed office on May 29, 2015, which was a Friday,  by June 1st being Monday, hit the ground running in terms of road construction. On that day alone, he flagged off the reconstruction of seven roads at Aba alone. As I speak, all the roads flagged off on that first day in office have been completed and commissioned. They include Adventist Close (ENUC close), Ommne, Kamalu, Chima Nwafor, Umuehilegbu, Umule and Owerri roads. And the Governor has long moved to constructing more roads some of which have been completed while others are ongoing, including Faulks Road, MCC/Old Express, Ururuka Road, Owoahiafo/Onicha Ngwa road, Umuaro/Ekwereazu Ngwa Road, the Osisioma junction flyover, Aba Road and low cost housing estate road 2, both in Umuahia and many more that are currently ongoing.
    To date 32 roads have been done across the state with 65 others ongoing or what you call “work in progress”.
    He has plans to do much more, but it should be noted that within this same period of two years, the governor has been in and out of courts. Of course your are aware that the defeated governorship candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in the last election, Dr. Alex Otti, went to the tribunal to challenge the election of the governor. That matter ran through all the way to the Supreme Court and immediately after that when the governor thought everything was over for him to settle and really deliver to Abians the promises he made. But seemingly from nowhere, we had to again face another desperate judicial actions by Uche Ogah and Friday Nwosu, who were co-aspirants to the PDP ticket in 2014. As we speak, the matter is still pending at the Supreme Court with ruling expected in the Ogah matter in May while the Nwosu matter is yet to be settled. Even the defeated APGA candidate who hitherto litigated his matter up to the Supreme Court has rejoined the desperate legal bonanza aimed at stealing the mandate Abians freely gave the Givernor.
    Yet being in and out of court has not really deterred the governor and that was why I said that it has been two years of sweet and sore experiences. Sweet because in the midst of the distractions the Governor has recorded many achievements that Abia people can feel and touch. Yet sore because much more could have been achieved if not for the desperate distractions.
    Two major roads at Aba that even the opposition has used repeatedly in their propaganda against the government are Port Harcourt and Faulks roads. Today, Faulks road is about 50 percent completed and is being handled by SETRACO. Port Harcourt road, which is a Federal road, has now been effectively taken over by the state government in order to ease the pains of Abians and residents who have suffered along that road for many years without federal intervention. The governor who promised to fix that road, has commenced the contractual processes leading to the fixing of the road.
    In all, this administration has completed 15 roads in Aba alone in two years, and the Governor’s drive is to leave Abia better than he met it.
    Where will the funds to execute these projects come from bearing in mind the present economic recession?
    It might interest you to know that by the time this government came on board, Abia State internally generated revenue (IGR) was between N500m to N600m monthly. But as at December 2016, our IGR was over N1b and the governor has said that our target by December 2017 will be N2.5b. Ultimately we are targeting N3.5b, before 2019. How we are going to get funds is simple and that is why we are focusing on Aba and that was why the governor said he was going to develop Abia from Aba because from Aba alone, this government will generate enough revenue that will help it to provide needed infrastructure in all the parts of the state.
    Sometime last year, the governor flagged off the reconstruction of Enyimba hotels, but till moment, there is nothing happening on site. What’s the problem?
    A past government in the state sold Enyimba hotels to the Aba Chamber of Commerce, Mines and Agriculture (ACCIMA), so it is no longer as we speak the property of the state. What happened was that this government was making moves to reclaim that place, but hurriedly, ACCIMA people said they were already in touch with Swiss International who were coming to build the place. They came to the governor and said that everything was in place to commence work at the site. It was not actually the state government that went to do that refurbishing and remodelling of that hotel, but ACCIMA. The governor was only invited to participate in flagging off what ACCIMA had supposedly concluded on. It was actually an agreement between ACCIMA and Swiss International. At the moment, the Government of Abia state is marking time and watching them,  it will get to a pointl where we will no longer have to wait for them; maybe the government by then will fully move in. This is because as we speak in the Aba of today, I can tell you that a whole lot of people, local and foreign, are queuing to invest in Aba and Aba in response to the Governor’s persistent calls backed by actions, for Ndigbo to think home and invest at home as well as attract their foreign partners to invest in the fastest growing market in Africa: Aba the SME capital of Nigeria.

    Many investors have specifically indicated interest in Enyimba Hotel because of the location and opportunities it presents as a waterfront hotel. I’m sure, like I said earlier, the government is marking time watching ACCIMA, it will get to a point where we will say “well we have waited for you and your partners and we’ve not seen you, we are now moving in and will refund whatever it is that should be returned to whoever, then the state can move in”. For the purposes of responding to your question, I must restate clearly what happened that flag off day was between ACCIMA and Swiss International.
    Has this administration any plans to bring moribund industries in the state back to life?
    Yeah, we have Golden Guinea Breweries, the Glass Industry, the Metrological complex, the Ogwe Golden Chicken and a whole lot of them. The Glass Industry in Aba had started production before the activities of vandals in the Niger Delta stopped them because the gas they use come from there. Government had really put in a lot of resources in that place. The same goes to the Golden Guinea Breweries. I’m aware, I remembered that I met with the man in charge of the Brewery and he said everything was almost ready as at last year. But a lot of people don’t understand what the present economic situation has done to Nigeria and Nigerians. Nobody is importing because our country is one where we virtually import everything, including raw materials and spare parts. Now, nobody is importing, foreign partners to private businesses have all gone back. The dollar is so high that not many manufacturing businesses are surviving. So, I think that was actually what happened to Golden Guinea Breweries because I remember on a particular visit of the governor to the facility, the man in charge said that place would have been ready by the end  of last year. Yet we are still optimistic that before the end of this year, the issue around Golden Guinea will be sorted out.
    What is the state government doing to checkmate insecurity that is rearing its ugly head in the state again?
    We all know the issue of security is a challenge to governments all over the world; it is not peculiar to Abia. The challenge is fast becoming a moving target requiring continuous improvements to checkmate and we are continuously innovating to meet the challenges of securing our state. Even developed countries like Britain are facing security challenges and am sure you are aware of the recent terror incident in London. I also read the other day that a Divisional Police Office (DPO) was kidnapped somewhere in Lagos. Imagine a situation where a DPO was kidnapped in a state with possibly the best resources in the country. We are not trying to compare our case with others much as we know that the issues are right there, but like I said, we are doing everything to checkmate rising crime rate that we noticed after the Yuletide season. The government has given all kinds of support to the security agencies in the state to do their work effectively. Recently, the governor was at Zone 9 headquarters here in Umuahia where he took a tour of their facility and what they have, up till now, the governor of Abia State didn’t know that where we have presently as the headquarters of zone 9 police, is a rented property. What the governor did was after visiting their temporary offices at Ehimiri, he moved straight to their proposed permanent site at Ogurube Layout, and he promised that before the end of this year, the zone 9 headquarters permanent site in Umuahia will be ready. The government is doing everything to get the issue of insecurity sorted out. More than 30 vehicles with modern communication equipment have been donated to security agencies in the state within the past 2 years.
    Local Government and other sundry workers in the state are owed arrears of salary, is there anything government is doing to pay the workers?
    The major cause of where we are today, in terms of salaries, is certainly not because Abia State governor does not want to pay. It’s because the country as a whole is suffering from economic hardship and that has affected us with reference to revenue inflows. Remember that at the beginning of this interview, I told you that a State like Abia that used to get above N6b from Abuja, now gets about N3b. However, that has not stopped the state from making every frantic effort to ensure that salaries are paid. So we are appealing to our people to continue to show support and understanding to the efforts of the government. We are doing everything possible to clear salary and pension arrears in the state. What does not get reported is the fact that more than 80% of our civil servants have received at least January salaries. Things will get better as we continue to manage inflows prudently, remove ghosts from the payroll and close all revenue leakages.
    On the issue of Abia Poly you mentioned, there are things people don’t understand. For instance, those private polytechnics in the country, who picks their bills? Is it government? The management of such schools do that. Abia Poly has students who pay fees, Abia poly is one of the parastatals of government under subvention which the government has been giving. When this administration came on board, close to two years ago, Abia Poly had a N2b loan facility hanging on its neck and government wrote it off. Let me tell you something, this government has in the last two years spent close to N4b on an institution that is generating revenue for itself. So, if we are now talking of owing salary in that school, the question should now be who actually owes who? Is it the government that is to give you subvention for you to run your school or you that is collecting all your fees and statutory levies from the students and still spend the money without paying salaries to your workers? So, we should try to get it right.
    Also, each time we talk about payment of civil servants salary, we make it look as if all Abians are civil servants. What about those who are not government workers, who are on their own that government is obliged to also look after? Surely, with revenue inflows that are just about enough to pay salary of our civil servants a responsible government must also provide for others who are not civil servants and who constitute more than 85% of the citizens of the state.
    Not quite long ago the governor of Imo State said about three governors in the South East will be joining the ruling APC, it was rumoured your principal would be one of them, could this be true?
    Well, when the governor of Imo State said that, he never mentioned any governor. So, since he didn’t mention which and which governors from the South East will join them, we also think we are not mentioned, so, why should we be responding to that? But that’s not to say that Gov Okezie Ikpeazu is leaving the PDP. Of course when PDP governors met with the former president of Nigeria to resolve the lingering crisis in the party, he was there.

  • NLC decries poor working condition in firms

    The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has spoken against the poor and unsafe conditions in which Nigerian workers discharge their duties.

    Speaking with The Nation, the NLC President, Ayuba Wabba, said: “We demand that a labourer, a pensioner deserves his wages. There must be dignity in labour. Let us collectively end corporate greed, let there be enough so that there will be shared posterity.

    ”Despite that the world has witnessed unprecedented accumulation of wealth in the last one decade, the workers that have created the wealth have remained in abject poverty, this must not be allowed to continue to happen.”

    He said the condition of workers in Nigeria was nothing to write home, adding that the working class was facing a lot of difficulties because salaries are not being paid in some states  and many companies as at when due.

    In a related event, the Chemical and Non-Metallic Senior Staff Association (CANMPSSA) has urged the Federal Government to speed up the diversification of the economy.

    According to the association, the  Federal Government should explore diversification of such sectors as agriculture, tourism, solid minerals, hospitality and others to buffer its foreign exchange earnings. Its President, Mohammed Abdul Gafar, who stated this in Ilorin, Kwara State capital, at the three-day Annual National Management/Industrial Relations Seminar and Entrepreneurship Skills Acquisition,  said the economy, which has defied all reasonable economic policies proposed so far, calls for more seriousness on the planned diversification.

    “The focus on crude oil as the major source of revenue for the economy has greatly incapacitated all other available sources of revenue in our country and, by implication, has affected our sector with the exchange rate of the naira to dollar rising astronomically,” he said.

    He reasoned that Nigeria, immensely blessed with skilled personnel, materials and natural resources, should not have been in the present precarious situation, but for lack of foresight of the past leaders.

    As a way out, the labour leader said the government should give priority to agriculture, which he said, has been a major source of revenue generation and raw material for manufacturing industries.

    “Efforts should be made to consolidate on massive production of cash crops segment of agricultural sector for exportation of agro-allied products to boost the revenue and increase the GDP of the country,” he stated.

    Gafar lamented that the effect of the present economic situation in the country has been devastating on the manufacturing sector, through the scarcity of foreign exchange, saying that government should march its words on backward integration with action.

    He noted that industries in the country have now embarked on various strategies to enable them remain in business, some which are detrimental to the workers.

    The CANMPSSA President said the union, as part of its contribution to resolving the problem, chose “Strengthening organisational performance in a depressed economy: chemical and non-metallic products experience”, as the theme of its seminar.

    He said: “Our challenge is that nobody in government is paying attention to the problem in the manufacturing sector. It is so bad now that we wonder how industries are coping. So, as workers, we believe that we can work together, create synergy that will stabilise our organisations and increase our productivity.”

  • Lagos keeps working

    Lagos keeps working

    One popular slogan of former Enugu State Governor Chimaroke Nnamani’s administration was, Enugu is working, to God be the glory. The slogan was meant to drum it into the ears of everyone, in the state and outside, who cares to listen that the government was living up to the expectations of the people.

    Long after his tenure, the citizens of the states are in a better position to say if the state really worked then or not.

    However, if there is a state the citizens and residents should count themselves lucky, going by the accomplishments of successive civilian governors since the return to civil rule, it should be Lagos.

    From the tenure of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, to that of Raji Fashola and now Akinwunmi Ambode, so much has been accomplished in the state in terms of social and economic development.

    Unlike some states with huge federal allocations with not much to show for it over the years,  Lagos has continued to have governors who have clear visions about what is required to make it a model state for others to emulate.

    Notwithstanding that the state has been ruled by governors from the opposition party until now, the past governors have implemented programmes and policies that even the ruling party then could not but acknowledge as examplary.

    True to his slogan, Eko o ni baje, (Lagos will not get bad) Fashola built on Tinibu’s achievements and earned himself recognition as the governor to beat among his colleagues.

    President Muhammed Buhari obviously appointed Fashola as a ‘super minister’ because he wants him to replicate his Lagos magic at the federal level.

    When he initially took over from Fashola, there were concerns that Ambode may not be able to sustain his predecessor’s record, not to talk of surpassing them.

    Ambode has, however, since been doing his best to prove his critics wrong with many projects and new policy direction to his credit. By the way he his fulfilling his election promises, the new governor has, indeed, confirmed his campaign slogan, Eko sese bere ni, which means Lagos has just started.

    If Lagosians think Fashola was an outstanding governor, my understanding of Ambode’s slogan is that, we have not seen anything yet. I take it that he is prepared to take the state to greater heights.

    In the ‘outland’ part of the state I live and drive through daily, Abule Egba/Agege, the governor’s imprint is clearly visible with street lights and road construction completed in record time. A particular road that has remained uncompleted under his two predecessors was completed within weeks.

    Motorists along the Abule Egba junction of the Lagos/Abeokuta road can’t wait to have the overhead bridge which the governor has promised to build.

    I am aware of many other parts of the state which Ambode has spread out his ‘rapid development’ agenda to and hope that in the years ahead, he will do more.

    His huge support for the police to ensure safety is commendable and everything possible must be done to reduce the crime rate in the state.

    Transportation, both on land and waterways, remains a major challenge to crack but the steps already being taken should be improved on.

    The light rail system commenced by Fashola should be one of the priority projects of the Ambode administration to cater for the mass movement of people in the part of Lagos it is meant to serve.

    Many parts of the state are overdue for urban renewal and the governor must not hesitate to take necessary action in line with the mega city status of the state.

    Rural Lagos communities are crying for attention and they deserve to be provided basic amenities.

    Ambode has enough time on his hands to leave Lagos better than he met it. His performance so far suggests that he has what it takes to provide the kind of leadership Lagos deserves.

    He must disappoint those who still think the shoes of his predecessors are too big for him.

     

  • Bayelsa teachers seek better working condition

    Bayelsa teachers seek better working condition

    The Executive Secretary of the Bayelsa State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Mr. Walton Liverpool, stirred a controversy at the Peace Park, Yenagoa, during the celebration of this year’s World Teachers’ Day. The teachers disagreed on some of the things he reeled off as achievements of the state government to improve the educational system.

    •A cross section of teachers at the World Teachers’ Day in Bayelsa
    •A cross section of teachers at the World Teachers’ Day in Bayelsa

    In unison, the teachers who attended this year’s celebration with mixed feelings, shouted in protest when Liverpool, the chairman of the occasion, claimed that Governor Seriake Dickson-led administration had provided school uniforms to Bayelsa pupils; sank boreholes in schools to provide potable water; conducted regular seminars and workshops as well as provided free school buses.

    The way the teachers reacted angrily, almost booing Liverpool, it was obvious that the government was economical with the truth in those areas. But none of the teachers disagreed with the SUBEB boss when he mentioned the construction of headmasters’ and teachers’ quarters and building of office blocks in schools as some of the achievements of the government.

    Other achievements that the teachers seemed to have agreed with were supply of desks, seats to schools; the college of education at Sagbama; overseas scholarship  programmes for students and regular payment of teachers’ and other workers’ salaries.

    Again, Liverpool incurred the wrath of the teachers. He tried to rehash the solidarity statements of the union and ended by saying, “the struggle continues”. Unknown to him, Bayelsa teachers are now more upwardly mobile, more enlightened and better educated and have done away with aphorisms conveniently adopted by politicians to keep marginalising them.

    So, the idea that teachers’ struggles are unending was quite infuriating, as openly expressed by the audience. They resisted it and raised their voices in demonstration until the Principal Secretary, National Union of Teachers (NUT), who is also a lawyer, Comrade Okoroafor Okechukwu, spoke a more popular language to them. He calmed the frayed nerves when he said: “teachers struggle ends today”.

    But the struggles among Bayelsa teachers seem endless.

    The state Chairman, NUT, Comrade Bokolo Tonworio, listed plethora of demands of Bayelsa teachers. He said the primary and post-primary teachers are yet to be paid the N18, 000 minimum wage arrears which nearly all other public servants had been paid. He lamented non-implementation of 2013/2014 primary school teachers’ promotion and inability of the government to conduct 2015 promotion exercise for primary school teachers.

    It was all knocks on the government for failing to pay promotion arrears arising from 2013 promotions and non-supply of instructional materials and statutory school records in the spirit of the emergency in education.

    Part of his worries is also that there are discrepancies between the “oracle-captured” and “non-oracle-based teachers” in the payment of monthly salaries.

    Besides, funding of examination and continuous assessments across the schools and recruitment of teachers into rural schools are part of the headaches in the system.

    But the teachers are not ungrateful. They thanked the government for declaring a state of emergency in education sector and pursuing it vigorously.

    The NUT boss commended Dickson’s government for prompt payment of teachers’ salaries; massive rehabilitation of educational infrastructure; restoration of scholarships at the secondary school levels; establishment of befitting teachers training academy, Bolou-Orua, Sagbama and supply of computer sets and power generating sets.

    He said the theme of the celebration, “Empowering Teachers, Building Sustainable Societies”, was apt as it emphasised the significance of teachers and underscores their critical position in the society and nation-building.

    “The business of teachers’ empowerment is the duty of all the stakeholders in the community. The union calls on all stakeholders to place the empowerment of teachers in the front burner of their policies and agenda.

    “The government should see the teacher as a veritable tool and medium by which the philosophies, ethos, norms, ethics, ideas and aesthetics will be transferred to the future.

    “Therefore, disempowering teachers is tantamount to creating a future of powerless and feeble citizens that will further perpetuate the dependency of Nigeria to our erstwhile colonial masters and deepening of corruption and socio-economic malaise”, he said.

    In his remarks, Okechukwu said the day was set aside to honour and celebrate teachers because of their pivotal roles in the society.

    He said: “For us in Bayelsa, this day is almost like one’s birthday. It is a day to encourage and recognise practising teachers. When you honour the teacher, you are motivating him.

    “The government of Dickson has been steadfast in the funding of primary and secondary education. It has been consistent, especially in the payment of salaries. But all has not been too well for teachers because of the discrepancy between oracle-captured teachers and persons not yet captured.

    “I don’t know why the discrepancy should exist. It is either that all of them go digital or they go manual to create equal playing field among the teachers. We want this dichotomy dismantled. We suggest that every teacher should be captured in the oracle.

    “The government has done very well in physical infrastructure but has not done well in supply of instructional materials and statutory records to schools. It is an impediment to effective teaching and learning in schools.”

    At the event, Governor Dickson was represented by his deputy, Rear Admiral John Jonah (rtd), who was accompanied by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Chief Talford Ongolo, Commissioner for Youths, Mr. Collins Cocodia and other members of the cabinet.

    But the governor later met with the teachers at the Banquet Hall where they feast. Dickson used the occasion to further reel off his achievements in the educational sector. He said his over N25 billion investments in the sector and the dedication of teachers yielded positive results.

    According to him, the state which used to be very poor in external examination was ranked 4th in the federation in the last Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination, (SSSCE).

    He said the report released recently by the West African Examinations Council, (WAEC), named the six leading states as, Anambra 65.92 per cent, Abia 58.52 per cent, Edo 57.82 per cent, Bayelsa 52.83 per cent, Rivers 52.73 per cent and Enugu 51.91 per cent.

    He said: “The development necessitated the declaration of a state of emergency in the sector and the government has invested N25 billion so far in the last three-and- half years to revamp the sector.”

    He enjoined the teachers to always do their utmost, stating that his administration will continually address their welfare as well as improve the infrastructure in the sector.

    Dickson, who praised teachers for their contributions to the growth and development of society, assured that in the next two weeks, the Teachers Training Academy would be inaugurated to train and re-train teachers to excel in their various professions.

    Describing the teaching profession as crucial in nation-building, the governor warned school principals against extortion of students under the guise of the National Examinations Council (NECO) and the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) fees. He further stressed that the government has been picking the bills for such fees to alleviate the plight of parents and wards.

    Responding, Okechukwu expressed gratitude to the state government for the prompt payment of salaries to workers, despite the austere times. He also praised government’s approval for the payment of arrears of N18, 000 minimum wages.

    He pledged the union’s total support for Dickson’s re-election bid to enable the restoration government to consolidate on its achievements.