INEC Chairman: Buhari has shown he is sectional leader - Fayose

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Ayodele Fayose has described the appointments  of yet another northerner, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu as Chairman the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as a vindication of his position that "President Mohammadu Buhari is a sectional leader,who sees himself mainly as leader of the Hausa/Fulani, and not that of the entire people of Nigeria." The governor, who said he had expected that the new INEC Chairman will be chosen from one of the three Southern geo-political  zones, especially the South Western part of the country being the only zone yet to produce chairman of the nation's electoral umpire, posited that; "Nigeria has entered a one chance bus and it remains to be seen who will save the country from its sectional President." Reacting to the appointment of Prof Yakubu as the new INEC chairman, Governor Fayose said, in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Public Communications and New Media, Lere Olayinka that even the Yoruba leaders who promoted and made the Buhari's Presidency possible had been short-changed. The governor asked; "Shouldn't he have considered someone from either South-East, South-South or South-West  as Chairman of the Electoral Commission now that we have a President from the North? "For reasons of perception, equity and fairness, don't we have credible people from the Southern part of Nigeria that can conduct credible elections as INEC Chairman? Or do we assume that the 2019 elections have already been won and lost by the appointment of this Hausa/Fulani professor as INEC chairman? Or isn't it regrettable that even in 2015, it is only in PDP controlled States that elections are being upturned?" He said he was worried  that  the  three arms of government;  namely Executive,  Legislative and Judiciary were being headed by northerners, leaving the  three zones in the  Southern part of the country with nothing. Speaking further, Governor Fayose said; "When Chief Olusegun Obasanjo was the President, he never appointed a Yoruba man as INEC chairman. Dr Goodluck Jonathan too did not appoint an Ijaw man as INEC Chairman. "Former President Shehu Shagari too did not appoint a Hausa man like himself as Chairman of the Federal Electoral Commission (FEDECO). Rather, he appointed late Justice Victor Ovie Whisky. "During the Ibrahim Babangida and San Abacha regimes, no Hausa/Fulani man was appointed as Chairman of the National Electoral Commission of Nigeria and General Abdulsalami Abubakar who established the current INEC did not also appoint his fellow Hausa man as chairman. "How then can we have a President from the North and at the same time have INEC Chairman from the Hausa/Fulani Northern Nigeria? "Obviously, what is being witnessed is more like a situation where it appears the President is more interested in having someone malleable to him than serving the interest of Nigeria and its people." Governor Fayose, who described the hurried appointment of the INEC boss as a vindication of his earlier stand that the appointment of Mrs Amina Zakari as INEC Acting Chairperson was illegal, said all processes leading to the conduct of the Kogi and Bayelsa States governorship election must start afresh. "It should be recalled that l raised the alarm on the legality of INEC under an Acting Chairman or Chairperson as there was no provision for INEC Acting Chairmanship position in the Constitution of Nigeria. "I did say in a statement issued on August 9, 2105 that any action taken by INEC with Mrs Zakari as its head will amount to illegality and I urged President Mohammadu Buhari to avoid plunging Nigeria into an avoidable legal quagmire by rescinding immediately, the illegal appointment of Mrs Zakari as INEC Acting Chairperson. "However, the president chose to wait until decisions were taken by INEC on Kogi and Bayelsa States governorship elections and one begins to wonder how INEC will wriggle itself out of the legal quagmire it has been plunged into by the President's refusal to heed to the voice of reason," the governor said.#

Fayose employs physically-challenged

Ekiti State Governor, Mr Ayo Fayose, on Tuesday gave automatic employment to 10 physically-challenged persons in the state, just as 35 wheelchairs were provided for them. The governor also said the state government would take over the treatment and upkeep of a five-year-old Olumide Enoch who suffers from palsy. The governor announced the gestures during an interactive session he had with the physically-challenged persons at the Governor's Office as part of activities to mark his first year in office. A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Idowu Adelusi, said the employment opportunities would cut across different categories of people. Those to benefit from the employment are those with sight challenges, the albinos, the deaf and dumb among others. The governor also said the 10 persons should include six male and four female. One of the beneficiaries of the employment opportunities, Miss Ibitoye Helen, said she graduated from the Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti in 2012 with a second class degree in English and Literary Studies and had been finding it difficult to make ends meet. "My parents are old and they live in Ilupeju-Ekiti and after they have suffered to send me to school, I have become a burden to them. Words have failed me to really expressed my appreciation to Governor Ayo Fayose. He has given me a lifeline and I pray that God will uphold him and grant him more successes in life," she said. Mrs Olumide, the mother of Enoch, said the family had drained all its resources in taking care of the boy. "You can see that I am shaking. This is a big support that I cannot fully appreciate with words. What the governor has done is like helping my family to survive. I pray that God will take our dear governor to higher level and be with him and his family," she said. The President, Physically-Challenged Persons Association, Ekiti State, Mr Ojo Peters, said what the governor did was unprecedented in the history of the state. "We have had governors in the past and we have not seen this type of concern for people's welfare like this. Truly, Governor Ayo Fayose is a kind man and a lover of the downtrodden. Some governors would have gone on a lavish celebration and not mind people like us," he noted. In his speech, Fayose challenged wealthy individuals and corporate bodies to come to the aid of such people. "Despite their limitations, they are human beings like us. We must not shun them. I want to express love to you as we mark the first anniversary of my government. The only thing we can do is to give you support. You voted for me and I am assuring you that I will appreciate you," he said. The governor said homes and special schools for the people would also be adequately taken care of.

Corruption war: Nigerians reject immunity for Senate President, Speaker

Mixed reactions have trailed the proposal by the national assembly to grant immunity to its presiding officers‎ with many Nigerians describing the move as unnecessary and Ill timed. The minority leader of the House of Representatives Hon. Leo Ogor was quoted as saying that the national assembly was proposing to amend the constitution to grant immunity to the presiding officers as well as the head of the judiciary as enjoyed by the president  and his vice and governors and their deputy. But speaking with our reporter in Abuja, respondents said the move was not borne out of altruism. According to a lawyer, Barrister Manasseh Ejiofor, the proposal was uncalled for and smacks "legislative rascalism‎" "Why are they bringing up the issue of immunity now? Whose interest are they serving? There are so many issues for the national assembly to address the least of which is the issue of immunity for its presiding officers. They should concentrate on making laws for the benefit of Nigerians and not their selfish selves. "For instance, why can't the national amend some of our laws that are obviously regain and needs to be brought in tune with modern realities. Granting immunity to the presiding officers of the National Assembly is the least problem that we have now. It is being done in bad faith" he said. Another respondent, a senior civil servant who does not want to be named because of his status said the proposed amendment was just to protect the selfish interest of the assembly members. "It is surprising that of all the laws that need amendments, the national assembly is contemplating granting immunity to its presiding officers. Nigerians elected them to make laws for the general well being of Nigerians and not a few members of the National Assembly. Nigerians should resist this move because it is not borne out of altruism" he said. Another lawyer, Barrister Samuel Oloruntoba in his reaction said the move is to divert attention from the searchlight being beamed on the leadership of the National Assembly. "Why have they not amended our laws to make it more difficult for civil servants to steal money? Why have they not made laws to make it more difficult for the kidnappers to operate freely. This proposed amendment is nothing but a self serving move and should be rejected by Nigerians " he noted. But a former members of the House of Representatives in his reaction said the amendment was necessary in order to shield the legislature from unnecessary interference from the executive. "If the amendment scales through, it will strengthen the legislature against unnecessary interference from the executive and guarantee the independence of the legislature. Our democracy is still work in progress so we need such a law to make the institution stronger" the former lawmaker who does not want to be named said. #

Olokun festival will boost tourism development, cultural integration –Adams

Adams said this on Sunday in Lagos at a news conference organised to announce programmes earmarked for the 13th edition of the festival.

Adams, who is also the initiator of Olokun Festival,said that the ceremony was mainly to showcase the cultural values and tradition of the Yoruba.

The coordinator said the celebration had provided an opportunity for prominent people and dignitaries to come to Nigeria from every part of the world.

"Tourists and adventurers annually come from across the globe to Nigeria to witness and see for themselves the beauty inherent in the Yoruba culture.

"The reason for celebrating Olokun festival annually is borne out of our desire to project the Yoruba culture to the world.

"As a foremost institution poised to promote the Yoruba culture, Olokun Festival Foundation, under my leadership, is determined to set the pace for cultural integration and tourism development in Nigeria.

"Nigeria is a blessed nation, but we can only make lasting impact on the world if we appreciate our culture and make our tourist sites attractive to the world," Adams said.

He noted that the celebration was an avenue for people to see the beauty of the Yoruba's abandoned culture and "how we can regain our lost glory through the festival".

He assured that 2015 Olokun celebration would give the best pastime for participants at home as well as others from other parts of the world.

"It is my belief that as we roll out the drums to celebrate this year's Olokun festival, it will open a new chapter of progress in the annals of this country.

"It will also create a window of opportunities for Nigerians who share the same dream of a great nation as we do," Adams Said

Presidency confirms arrest of former oil minister in London

The presidency  on Monday confirmed the arrest in London of former oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke on suspicion of bribery and money laundering.

"Nigeria is aware of the arrest of the former petroleum minister in London on money laundering charges," presidential spokesman Garba Shehu told AFP.

"The government has been informed and the DSS (Department of State Services) is collaborating with the relevant security agencies in the UK to handle the matter," he said.

Britain's National Crime Agency said on its website on Friday it had detained five people on suspicion of bribery and money laundering but did not disclose the identities of the suspects.

"All five people arrested were released on conditional bail later that evening, pending further investigation both in the UK and overseas," a statement said.

"The investigation commenced in 2013 under the Proceeds of Corruption act, and transferred to the NCA earlier this year."

Media reports quoted unnamed family members of Alison-Madueke as confirming her arrest.

Nigeria's Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) refused to confirm the arrest but was reported to have sealed her home in Nigeria's capital, Abuja.

Alison-Madueke, 59, was oil minister under former president Goodluck Jonathan from 2010 until earlier this year when he was defeated in elections by Muhammadu Buhari.

She was the first woman oil minister in Nigeria — Africa's largest producer — and the first female president of the global oil cartel OPEC.

Alison-Madueke has previously been accused of large-scale fraud in the management of the country's multi-billion-dollar oil wealth but denied any wrong-doing.

In February 2014, the former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Lamido Sanusi, claimed the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) had failed to remit $20 billion in revenue.

Sanusi was later removed from his post by Jonathan, who disputed the figures involved, in a move many saw as politically motivated.

Buhari, who last week announced he would take personal charge of the oil ministry, has begun a purge of the NNPC, ordering a review of its finances and sacking the entire board.

Independence: Buhari’s administration lacks economy blue print for Nigeria—Rights Activist

…Blasts Aregbesola for anti-masses policies  A human rights activist and member of the opposition groups in the country, Comrade Adeniyi, Alimi Sulaiman has declared that the present administration of General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd) have no economy blue print for the country, saying that the present administration has not given any economy direction to the country than the mere propaganda by his party, All Progressives Congress (APC). Comrade Sulaiman also described the menace of corruption as the bane of economy and political crisis facing the country, calling for urgent action from the government at all levels with the cooperation of the Nigeria masses to stamp out the cankerworm out of nations' system, adding that Buhari's government failed to assert its position on whether to remove the oil subsidy or not. The rights activist however, blasts Governor Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State for his anti-people policies, stressing that Aregbesola was a disgrace personality to the human rights community in Nigeria which he claimed to be part of it in the past, alleging that some known members of the community were given liver to Aregbesola's government to continue with anti-masses agenda, to the extent of running the State aground in the face allocations accrue to the State from Federation Account. He alleged that Aregbesola has run the State aground by putting Osun State into bankruptcy with the incurring of billion of naira loan in almost commercial banks in the country, adding that "despite the Aregbesola's loan incurred from almost all the commercial banks in Nigeria in the last five years, but what we saw in return ,was Governor Aregbesola to declare openly that the financial crisis facing the State was beyond his capacity  and instead  for Mr. Aregbesola to resign honourably ,he sent his groomed thugs popularly known as "STATE BOYS" to disrupt a peaceful mass protest  against his on Tuesday, July 7th,2015,where the thugs were directed to take my life for no just reason than being the leader of the human rights' and Civil Societies Organization(CSO) that has been critics of his government". Speaking yesterday in Lagos State as a guest speaker  on the lecture/symposium  entitled:"Degenerating Economy and Political Crisis, which way forward for Nigeria" organized by the National Conscience Party(NCP)  to mark its  21st formation anniversary of the party /independence lecture symposium, held at  the Gani Fawehinmi Memorial  Organization(GAFAMORG) office  hall at Olayinka Bamigbose, off Olowu, Ikeja,Sulaiman who is the Chairman, Civil Societies Coalition for the Emancipation of Osun State(CSCEO) further stressed that  Buhari's administration was full of denial and lies of electioneering campaign promises, faulting President Buhari's  body language of looking  for foreign help to solve the mirage of problems facing the country. According to the CSCEO boss, "Presently, Nigeria economy is nothing to write home about, because the present administration of Buhari does not give  any meaningful economy direction to the nation. Nigeria people believed that immediately after Buhari was sworn-in, as elected President and Commander –in- Chief of Armed Forces on May 29th, 2015, action would commence on redirection of the nation's economy but till the present moment, President Buhari is looking for external help to fix the Nigeria degenerating economy. "To my surprise, Buhari could not assert his government position, whether to remove oil subsidy or not. Before he came into power, he posited that the fuel subsidy was a fraud of highest order and conduit pipe where few elements in the land, were using to siphone the commonwealth of the country into private pocket, but when he came, he continues in that direction, what a double speak and deal? And this is the reason why nothing changes in our economy till today. I want to say unequivocally that General Muahhmmadu Buhari (rtd) does not have any economy blue print for Nigeria and the nations' masses will continue wallowing in abject poverty and my heart bleed for those who supported them dogmatically during the electioneering process without asking a question. I strongly hold that it is very much in the national interest and national security to speak against the ills in our society, no matter whose ox is gored". Sulaiman added that, "There is no way Buhari could fight the menace of corruption in the land without cleansing his own dirtiness because a leader should lead by a good example. But how somebody that call himself a "man of integrity?" would not ask where his party men source for fund to sponsor his electioneering campaign  or do we ask somebody that told Nigeria people during the electioneering process that he borrowed money from Commercial bank  to obtain his party's nomination form for presidential contest at the rate of over #27million. "I am very sure and I stand to be corrected that Muhammadu Buhari's administration fights against corruption will fail because Buhari is not ready to fight corruption within his party and Yoruba adage says, 'Charity must begin at home', you could understand this position with Buhari's body language and you will see that this government will be at the end of the day, be the government as usual. President Buhari would not be able to succeed in his fight against corruption with the advice of Professor Itse Sagay as Chairman, Presidential Advisory Committee on Anti-Corruption".

Winlot lottery launches online apps

WINLOT lottery has launched an online lottery mobile app as part of the activities designed to generate more revenue to the government.

  The Chief Executive Officer, Lagos State Lottery Board, Lanre Gbajabiadi at the launch of Winlot Lottery mobile app in Lagos, said revenues which are generated from the lottery commission are used to finance other sectors of the state; health, education, infrastructure and environment sector.

  “Remitted revenues from the operation of lottery are used by the Lagos State government, which are beneficial to the citizens of the state.”

    He confirmed the online lottery mobile app to be the easiest and the most convenient way of playing a lottery game in the comfort of their homes.

  He said this platform was first of its kind in Lagos and a new distribution channel targeted to reach out to people. Accessing the standard living of Nigerians, opportunities are created by the lottery board to improve the standard of living.

  He commended the efforts of Winlot in making this mobile app launch a success and urged other operators to imitate this bold step in sharing Nigeria good vision of providing more revenue.

  He advised that lottery should be played through licensed operators endorsed by the regulator, stressing that Premier Lotto, Golden chance lotto, Superior lotto and Winlot lotto are the registered bodies licensed by the regulatory board to operate the lottery games.

  It was however, disclosed that upon launch, players will be able to play the lottery on iPhone, Android and later extended to Blackberry device and IOS mobile devices with option to download the app with either MTN or Glo telecommunication anytime anywhere with their mobile devices. By login for the first 5000 players’ N200 airtime bonus will be awarded for playing. Players can check the result and their prizes with ease.

  Already, statistics showed Nigeria has the potential to become the largest social media user in the African continent. According to report, Nigeria is the second largest social media user in Africa, closely following South Africa. 25 per cent of Nigerian mobile subscribers use smartphones, which account for four million smartphone users.

  The Chief Executive Officer, of Winlot Lottery, Nimish Bhatnagar revealed “We are happy to have this enriching experience to launch this interesting lottery mobile app with Glo and MTN that has enrich our gaming profile within the region. Most important of all, it can provide players with more convenient channel to enjoy our services”.

  Bhatnagar launched the website of downloading the mobile app” www.mywinlot.ng/mobile and the games are categorized into three stages; Winlot Gold Coast, Winlot International and Winlot Jackpot respectively”

At Awesome College, sports, academics play prominent roles

  Sports combined with education play prominent role in the upbringing of children and ‘that is what we encourage at Awesome College,’ the chairman of the school’s Sports Committee, Igbokwe Emmanuel, has said.

  Speaking at the end of Awesome College’s fourth annual inter-house sports competition at the University of Lagos Sports Centre, Igbokwe, who was delighted by the performance of the students, said “Nigeria would be a better country if students are encouraged to combine sports with their academics.

   "We have never celebrated it like this before. This year is more like the Olympic Games. We had nothing less than 60 sports during this year’s event.

   “Students should not lay emphasis on their classroom education alone, sports is also very important."

  He added: “Awesome College encourages pupils to fulfill their potential by giving them the opportunity to excel in all areas of life.

   "At Awesome College, there is no sport we can talk about that we do not train our pupils in. Among them is football, basketball, volleyball, athletic, tennis badminton and the likes.”

  Emmanuel urged parents to help their children discover their skills and nurture them by providing the necessary moral support, adding, “if not for any other reason, children should be exposed to sports activities for health reasons because promotes longevity.”

  The fourth edition of the biennial competition came to a thrilling end with Oikos Grace House (Blue) winning the over all best team trophy with 16 gold, 15 sliver and 13 bronze medals.

    Oikos Mercy House (Green) came second with total 12 gold, 10 silver and nine bronze medals, while Oikos Red House (Red) was third with 10 gold 15 silver and 15 bronze medals, followed by Oikos Praise (Yellow), which placed fourth with nine gold, seven silver and 10 bronze medals.

There were races in different categories: 100 metres boys/girls, junior and senior, 200 metres, 400 relay boys/girls likewise baton exchange. There was also sack race and tug of peace.

Other sporting activities vied for by pupils and students of the various houses were, table tennis, skipping, lime and spoon, sack race, tug of peace, head balancing, badminton, football among others.

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola

Foundation wants enforcement of child rights, physically challenged

GOVERNMENTS at all levels in the country have been urged to focus on the implementation of Child Rights Act and employment of physically challenged persons.

   Executive Director, Child Dignity Foundation, Amaka Awogu, at the celebration of 2014 World Down Syndrome Day organised by United Nations in collaboration with Down Syndrome Foundation on Friday in Lagos, said the high percentage of people with the syndrome ought to be treated same way all children like to be treated: with respect, fairness and friendship.

   In the word of the United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, “Too often, persons with disabilities, including those with Down Syndrome face stigma, discrimination and exclusion. The lack of full participation of those with Down Syndrome affects not only individuals and their families, but also society at large.”

   “Let us therefore, take concrete action toward the inclusion of all persons with disabilities, including those with Down syndrome,” Ban said.

   Ban’s message was presented by the Head of Lagos Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Mrs. Josephine Smith.

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola

Coscharis partners Ford to tackle spare-parts counterfeiting

BUOYED by the frenzy that heralded the new automotive policy, which has brought in various brands of vehicle, Coscharis Motors in collaboration with Ford Motor Company recently launched a world-class garage that takes care of maintenance and genuine spare-parts access to motorist.

    The initiative tagged Certified Pars Wholesale Dealer (CPWD), is expected to midwife Quick Service Centers and Quick Lane Facilities to be manned by certified technicians, which would be replicated in strategic locations across the country.

     Speaking at the launch in Lagos, the Chairman, Coscharis Motors, Cosmos Maduka said the idea to set up this dealer network came as a result of effort to assist the firm’s valuable customers and other stake-holder, through feedback mechanism.

    He said, “some of our customers live in or operate their businesses in remote areas of the country and as such do not have easy access to our facilities whenever they have issues bothering on spare-parts, lubricants and other after-sales products and services.”

    According to him some of these customers end-up patronising unscrupulous spare-parts dealers who specialise in selling counterfeit and sub-standard spare-parts to the public

   “The use of these counterfeit spare-parts has exposed some motorists to untold and avoidable hazards include, breakdowns, part failures accidents, which has lead to loss of property and lives,” Maduka said.

   While giving insight into the motive behind the project, Maduka said, “we cannot provide all the after-sales needs all by our self, the idea of collaborating with well intended spare-parts dealers in our local market to make Ford Motorcraft Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) spare-parts available and accessible in every nook and cranny of this country.

    He disclosed that the company has appointed over 100 certified spare-part dealer who, with the support of the oversea partner-Ford Motor Company, will be empowered to stock and sell genuine Ford Motorcraft spare-part to customers.

    The Lagos Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Chidi Nkwonta said that human factor constitutes about 90 per cent of Road Traffic Crashes (RTC).

    He said Road Safety required not only driver fitness but also vehicle fitness. “A well maintained vehicle speaks volume.”

   Speaking on the importance of effective maintenance of vehicles, Nkwota said “effective and proper maintenance provides many benefit to the vehicle which includes, saving fuel and money, reducing long-term maintenance cost.

    The Dealer Operations Manager, Sub-Saharan Africa Ford, David Lawrence, said Ford was committed to providing customers throughout Sub-Sahara Africa with exceptional customer service. 

   The facility has begun operation in the country and the services are now available in Yaba,  Lagos.

   The Commissioner of Transport, Lagos State, Kayode Opeifa, who spoke through Director, Control and Regulation of License, Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA), Mr. Bunmi Odukoya said this development was a welcome relief to all its Ford customers and applauded Ford Motor Company for such strategic intent and programme.

   He urged Coscharis to extend the gesture to other brands that they deal with towards ensuring service excellence and also to the mechanics. 

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola

Firms introduce security printers to Nigeria

TO manage the ongoing challenge of documents fraud faced by many organisations most especially the banking sector, Crosswalk, a Nigeria database company in collaboration with TROY Group a worldwide leader in secure on-demand printing has enhanced HP Printers which is consumables for use in secure printing work flows.

  TROY's line security printers provide built-in features, which safeguard your preprinted forms against unauthorised removal.

  The Regional Manager Europe and Middle East and Africa, TROY Group, Mark Bond at an exhibition on costs effective high-end document security printing solutions, said that each printer utilised the built-in capabilities of HP print drivers providing the ability to map to specific tray and the ability to release print job utilising PIN authentication.

  Bond said that TROY security printers integrated paper tray locks and security shielding on the back of the paper tray assuring the highest level of protecting against paper and documents theft.

  Other features included disable jam recovery, which helped to prevent fraudulent creation of cheques by the unauthorised operation, who might choose to create a jam.

  "It help enterprise to manage frauds, operational risk and comply with regular issues and government regulation related to protecting information privacy,” he stated.

  Security features on the finished document with TROY secure check flow secure print enterprise and transactions.

  He said that TROY 601 security printers provide customers 45 pages per minute; MICR 602 printer series price to 52 pages per minute. The 602 MICR printer series low cost of ownership, increased speed and higher Input capacity bring a new class of printing to all levels aspect of a secure check printing work flows.

  With MICR 806, it robust print capabilities is 55 pages in a minute. TROY 806 is integrated to secure document production in high end distributes printing environment. It has a vast array of accessories providing the ability to meet high production demands.

  Bond added that HP also introduced the low melt toner requiring less energy by reducing less energy by reducing the fusing temperature.

  "The adding of the troy software, hardware utility allows users to easily add digital signatures, logos, customised patterns or forms macros to their printers.

  "A unique watermark of user defined variable data printed diagonally across the back of each prescription with field and quantities this intelligent anti tampering technology help to verify that each prescription has to be altered,” he said.

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola

NIBSS, banks up advocacy on use of e-payment platforms

The Nigeria Interbank Settlement Scheme (NIBSS) and deposit money banks have urged Nigerians to embrace e-payment platforms as the best option for payments of business transactions. 

  The appeal, which is part of the renewed awareness campaign aimed at enlightening the public on the benefits of e-payment, may have become necessary as the nationwide rollout of the cash-less project by July 1, 2014, is fast approaching. 

  The e-payment platforms like Point of Sale (POS) and Instant Payment, among others, have been promoted for assessed convenience, safety and receipt of instant value, facilitating payments for transactions through ATM cards, mobile phones, laptops, desktops, notebooks and I-Pads.

  Already, banks in conjunction with NIBSS have commenced a communication awareness campaign to enlighten Nigerians on the benefits of these e-payment platforms, encouraging their usage and adoption.

  According to a statement from the Head, Corporate Communications, NIBSS, Lilian Phido, the need to embrace the e-payment platforms was due to its safety, reliability and efficiency offerings, coupled with the attendant security issues associated with cash transactions.

 “There is also need to embrace the e-payment platforms because they have become globally acceptable means for financial transactions.

 “The e-payment platforms enhance greater penetration and accessibility to financial services by the unbanked and under-banked populace and can be enhanced with improved infrastructure,” Phido said.

  The statement added that the on-going media campaign for the new payment platform will be complemented by the use of consumer engagement activities- road shows, one-on-one contact marketing, digital and online advertising.

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola

Unified examination for Lagos private schools begin June

The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Lagos State Chapter says it would commence unified examinations for pupils in private schools in the state in June.

  The association’s President, Mr. Abayomi Otubela, speaking in Lagos said the development was part of efforts to ensure standards in private schools in the state.

  Otubela said that the examination to be held every session would enable all proprietors to assess the performance of their pupils and make improvements where necessary.

  “All private schools will be writing a joint examination aside from their final exams, these are all measures to ensure qualitative education.”

  According to Otubela, a maiden quiz competition among private schools is scheduled to hold on March 19 at the ward level during the NAPPS South-West Delegates Conference.

  Otubela also spoke on the gruesome murder of students just as he condemned the abduction of 15 female students in Yobe State by gunmen, describing the act as barbaric.

  “We challenge them to direct their cause if any, to their target enemies and not at innocent school children. We also call on the Federal Government to do more in tackling the excesses of these insurgents.

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola

Centre for Democracy holds lecture May 7

TOWARDS enlightening citizens on expectations in a democracy, the non-profit Centre for Democratic Governance in Africa (CDGA) will focus on “Achieving, Sustaining Democratic Dividends of the Grassroots: A Function of Purpose-Driven Leadership”, at its fourth annual public lecture and award presentation.

  Renowned Economist and former Minister of Finance, Dr. Kalu Idika Kalu, will chair the event, which holds at the Grand Ball, Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, on May 7. Special guests of honour include former Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (rtd); First Lady, Mrs. Patience Jonathan; Senator Hope Uzodinma and Olorogun Oscar Ibru, among others.

  The CDGA Director General, Dr. Dafe Akpocha, told newsmen yesterday that the lecture is programmed to enlighten people that democracy and good governance lay the foundation for people to realise sustainable development.

  He noted that “democratic governance facilitates human rights in all fairness, freedom and equity and produces dividends for the citizens and observance of human rights.”

  According to him, democratic governance enables people to attain sustainable growth, as it also needs to be translated into tangible socio-economic development for people in rural communities.

  Expected discussants are the Vice Chancellor of Covenant University, Dr. Charles Korede Ayo; a legal practitioner, Victor Ukutt and Femi Akinboboye, while the Governor of Niger State, Babangida Aliu, would deliver lecture on “Sustaining Momentum for Social Service Delivery in Governance.”

  Also, CDGA will recognise some prominent Nigerians with gold service award for their contributions to the development of Nigerian government.

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola

Fenog lays 20" pipes across 3.49-kilometre river

An indigenous company in Delta State has laid 20" pipes across 3.49-kilometre river in the ongoing Amukpe/Escravos pipeline project. The company achieved the pioneering feat within six weeks.

  The company had laid 24" pipes across the 1.7-kilometre Escravos River in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State and 24" pipes across 2.82-kilometre/ObOb Kwale River in Delta State for Agip Nigeria Oil Company (NAOC).

  The Executive Director of the company, Mathew Tonlagha, described the feat as "an unprecedented feat in the history of underground pipelaying worldwide.

  "The one that is very close to what we have achieved as available record shows was the laying of 3.9 kilometres but that involved the laying of just 12" pipes and it was achieved in one year. But in our own case, we laid 20" pipes across 3.49kilometres river in just six weeks in the Amukpe/Escravos pipeline project.

  "You can see that this is no mean achievement that we have recorded worldwide. This is an improvement over what we did in the Chevron project when we laid 24"across 1.7-kilometre Escravos River in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State and 24" pipes across 2.82-kilometre/ObOb Kwale River in Delta State for Agip Nigeria Oil Company (NAOC).

  Tolangha commended the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Deziani Alison-Maduekwe, for creating a level playing ground for the indigenous oil and gas service companies to operate unfettered in the oil industry adding that Fenog would continue to serve as a pacesetter and leading light for other indigenous operators in the nation's oil industry.

  Fenog's General Manager, Chukwudi Uwakwe, attributed the success recorded by his company to the deployment of Continuous Horizontal Directional Drilling (CHDD) of which the company was the pioneer use in the world. 

  "All our jobs are being done by Nigerian nationals in line with the local content Act with the aid of our CHDD rigs, including our new versatile HDD 350 rig, which has the ability to push, pull, tunnel, drill, and truss boring abilities. We have used it to release a stocked pipe in one of our drilling sites of which nobody has been able to do in the whole world.

  "We are only pleading with the IOCs to encourage us by giving us first consideration in bidding and by giving us jobs to build our capacity and show our strength," Nwakwe added.

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola 

Group honours NURTW chief tomorrow

The Centre for Democratic Governance in African (CDGA), will honour the National President of National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Alhaji Najeem Usman Nasin with the Africa Distinguished Gold Service Award will on March 13, 2014 in Abuja.

The team will be led by the Director General, Dafe Akpocha and other executives.

Head of Media and Publicity to the Center, Stephen Udokporo said yesterday that having watched the transformation of NURTW into a modern organisation under the leadership of Alhaji Nasin, there was the need to appreciate him.

"We are experiencing a great change in our transport sector in the country which is playing good governance in Africa and Nigeria in particular. This is the reason the CDGA is out to reward him to encourage Nigerians and Africans in their various endeavors to see that they contribute their quota in ensuring good.

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola

CIG Motors plans to explore Nigeria auto market

CIG Motors, the Nigeria company of the GAC Motor China is set to explore the Nigerian auto market with its brands of cars.

  The Chief Executive Officer of CIG Motors, Ms Diana Chen, said the company has conducted extensive research on the Nigerian market.

  She stated that for over one year, the company has embarked on series of programmes to thoroughly understand the Nigerian market.

Chen said the company is making huge investment in order to make a high impact in the Nigeria market adding that the country offers huge potentials for the brands.

  She added that Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt are the key market for the company. Nigeria, according to her, offers enormous potentials for the company as a major channel to gain market presence in the African continent.

To achieve its strategic goals of market entry, Chen said the company was building an ultra modern office with after sales support service and workshop in order to offer quality service in the Nigerian market.

   She also asserted that the company will also train Nigerian auto technicians as part of its business goals to maintain a well established presence in Nigeria

  She said the brands are of high quality with international safety standards adding that the company was entering the Nigerian market with its car models as well as SUVs. The brands are designed in a trendy and sporty style with extra wide and comfort space and environment-friendly features. It also has advanced technology, excellent performance and control. The cars are also fitted with G-cloud Intelligent Driving Assistance System.

Chen added that the brands from the stable of CIG Motors have top safety technology in the world.

CIG, according to Chen, is the Nigerian company of Guangzhou Automobil Group Co., Ltd (GAC MOTOR)  a Chinese automobile maker with headquarter in Guanngzhou in China. GAC motor represents insisting on pursuing development, enhancing the core completion, and achieving sustainable development.

  Since its establishment, the Trumpchi has been technologically at par with other global brands and developed based on top-notch European performance. GAC Motor not only has relationships with the global top ten automobile parts suppliers, but has also internalized Europe’s advanced chasis and powertrain technology.

   Especially in the safety performance, GAC motor’s entire models got the five star award in the C-NCAP test and beyond most of famous brands.

    She said the car designed in Italy, built in world class manufacturing company in China, with its C-Class chasis and equipment, B-Class Value and quality, and A-class price and Trumpchi will be extremely competitive in the global market.

With the global strategy of “prudent action, holistic plan, steady growth, major breakthroughs,” GAC plans to establish distribution network in 18 countries in 2014, covering each continent, and extend further to neighboring markets. In the Middle East, GAC MOTOR plans to establish networks in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirate, among other as well as Russia and Ukraine of Eastern Europe; Chile, Peru, Colombia, Brazil and Argentina of South America; Algeria and Nigeria in Africa; and in the Southeast Asia and Central Asia are Thailand, Burma, and Cambodia

By Adeniyi Idowu Adunola

Group honours Isolo council boss, monarchs, others

THE African Child Social Empowerment Centre, a non-governmental, social organisation, which focuses on children, youths, women and community development, has honoured seven prominent Nigerians.

During an award tagged: “Children Ambassadors Award,” held at the Rotary Club Hall, Isolo, Lagos yesterday, the NGO honoured the Ewusi of Makun-Shagamu, Timothy Oyesola Akinsanya; Chief Osita Okereke, the national chairman of the All Peoples Liberation Party, APLP, who is also the Director General of the national task force to combat illegal importation of arms and Hon. Shamsudeen Olaleye, the Chairman of Isolo Local Council Development Area, LCDA.

 The non-profit initiative, founded in 2008, said it was honouring the recipients in recognition of their immense contributions to the welfare of children and the underprivileged.

According to the Executive Director of the organization, Bonaventure Enemali, “There is a need to appreciate these seven Nigerians who have distinguished themselves in philanthropic commitment and dedication to a better livelihood of African children.”

 Enjoining Nigerians to respond more positively to the plight of the African child, Enemali said, “If everybody impacts one life a day, we will make a better continent, Africa.”

Among the people honoured were: Dr. Lawrence Nnamdi, Michael Adegoke, Otunba Mike Osimen and Chief Nicholas Ajayi, in an event that drew people from far and wide.

By Adeniyi Adunola