NVESTIGATORS probing the twin bomb blasts, which rocked Abuja on Nigeria’s Independence Day, have extended their probe to the doorsteps of a former governor, sources said on Sunday. The Nigerian Tribune was reliably informed that the investigators, including officials of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the State Security Service (SSS) have continued to comb the several communication networks with the aim of isolating information that could provide further leads to the bomb blasts story.
It was gathered that the agencies have pieced together information linking a former civilian governor to the bomb blasts, while other pieces of information regarded as damaging enough are being put together.
The SSS had, last week, secured a court order, which allowed it to detain the suspects already arrested in connection with the bomb blasts, which claimed no fewer than 14 lives.
Sources said that the Special Investigation Panel, set up to coordinate the bomb blasts issue so far has been told of the alleged involvement of the former governor, based on information pieced together by the different agencies.
The source, who refused to give direct insights into the text messages, said that the operatives had been able to track loads of communications with direct links to the bomb blasts of October 1.
It was gathered that in order not to overheat the polity as a result of the investigation, the investigators will for now not make the name of the affected suspect public.
It was also gathered that the top hierarchy of the SSS were unhappy that the Director-General of the Ibrahim Babangida Campaign Organisation, Chief Raymond Dokpesi, went ahead to address a press conference on Saturday where he painted the investigation as political.
Sources close to the investigation stated that the SSS believed that Dokpesi misapplied his freedom, following the decision of the service to allow him report to its headquarters from his house daily.
Said the source: “The press conference granted by Chief Dokpesi is being counted as a step that puts the SSS in a bad light. It was like a stab in the back, because the service granted him the honour of coming for interrogation from his house. It was aimed at avoiding a situation where people would politicise the arrest and overheat the polity but he has used that advantage against the service.
Unfortunately, the SSS does not do politics; it is concerned about the security of everyone, which is an onerous task.”
It was also confirmed, on Sunday, that the agencies had collectively downloaded up to 700 pages of text messages in the ongoing investigations thus far.
A source said that all those remotely connected to the October 1 incident were being closely monitored and that interrogations would be done at every necessary stage.
Another source said on Sunday: “Based on the international concerns on the Abuja bomb blasts, the investigators have seen the need to be cautious and painstaking. They are leaving no stone unturned in the process. So far, I can confirm to you that the investigators especially from NIA and SSS; have downloaded over 700 pages of text messages. All networks are involved and they have found useful information linking the ring leaders.
“Those being investigated include a former governor. The intercepted messages have proved to be very helpful. Because the United Nations is also concerned, the investigations have been far reaching.
The security agencies are saying that this is not politics. It is a national security matter and that they are determined to get to the roots of this.”
Meanwhile, the Goodluck/Sambo Presidential Campaign Organisation has dismissed suggestions by Dr Dokpesi, that he was considered for the same position in President Goodluck Jonathan’s camp.
A statement issued by the Director of Media and Publicity of the Goodluck/Sambo Presoidential Campaign Organisation, Mr Sully Abu, said in Abuja on Sunday that the Africa Independent Television (AIT) owner was never considered for the post as he alleged in a recent interview with the media.
According to the statement, “the attention of the Goodluck/Sambo Presidential Campaign Organisation has been drawn to certain utterances by the Director General of the Babangida Campaign Organisation, Chief Raymond Dokpesi, to the effect that he was suffering an imagined political persecution because he declined to head our campaign organisation.
“Nothing could be farther from the truth. At no time was Chief Dokpesi considered for such a role. He never made it to anybody’s shortlist or long list.
“In any case, the claim defies political common sense as such a position is normally given to someone outside the geographical zone of the aspirant.”
The statement added that “Dokpesi, being from the South-South as President Jonathan, could never have been considered for such a position.”
Monday, 11 October 2010
Thoughts on Nigeria at 50
THE independence celebration, if it has any significance, should be an occasion for reflecting on the time Nigerians were under servitude.
However, it becomes an event for celebration, when a nation has fared better than when she was under foreign domination.
Now, the question that comes to one’s mind, as one ruminates over the state of the nation 50 years after independence is, has the attained independence by Nigeria 50 years ago impacted on Nigerians?
The post-colonial leaders, mostly nationalists, set the nation on the path of greatness, in spite of the ethnicity problems that plagued the nation then. A leader in each region made meaningful impacts on socio-economic development. Relics of their efforts abound in various parts of the country.
Also, the incursion of the military in Nigerian polity since 1966 truncated the nation building process, because of greed, tribalism and lust for power.
A critical analysis of the post-1966 leadership shows that the mission of past leaders was the same, in spite of different guises. What were the motives of those thirsty for power, both as military or civilian? Similarly, their driving force was avarice, greed, lust for power, self-aggrandisement, etc.
Except for the brief period between 1975 and 1976, and December 1983 through August 1985, when attempts were made to bring sanity and decorum to the Nigerian polity, the story of succeeding governments was that of lost opportunities.
The misfortune the nation witnessed during military regime, manifested in political and economic stagnation in all sectors of the economy. There were also coups and couter-coups, annulment of elections, denials, killings of political opponents, etc.
The high hope Nigerians had about democratic dispensation was disillusioned early enough by greed and avarice of the ruling elite. All the vices that bedeviled the previous dispensations again reared their ugly heads.
In spite of unprecedented foreign exchange earnings accruing to the nation, the condition of an average Nigerian has not improved for the better.
Political leaders are power drunk. Political power has become an end in itself, and not a means to an end.
In all, it is the ordinary Nigerian, on whose behalf the independence was fought and won, that bears the brunt of mismanagement of the God-given human and material resources the nation is endowed with.
However, having survived socio-political upheavals like the Civil War, June 12 crisis, Niger Delta uprising, etc, and still remains a united nation, calls for celebration. But the fact that Nigeria is still contending with problems of nation building 50 years after independence, is a cause for concern. Afterall, nations that started the journey with us, which are even less endowed had left us behind in the race for development.
However, it becomes an event for celebration, when a nation has fared better than when she was under foreign domination.
Now, the question that comes to one’s mind, as one ruminates over the state of the nation 50 years after independence is, has the attained independence by Nigeria 50 years ago impacted on Nigerians?
The post-colonial leaders, mostly nationalists, set the nation on the path of greatness, in spite of the ethnicity problems that plagued the nation then. A leader in each region made meaningful impacts on socio-economic development. Relics of their efforts abound in various parts of the country.
Also, the incursion of the military in Nigerian polity since 1966 truncated the nation building process, because of greed, tribalism and lust for power.
A critical analysis of the post-1966 leadership shows that the mission of past leaders was the same, in spite of different guises. What were the motives of those thirsty for power, both as military or civilian? Similarly, their driving force was avarice, greed, lust for power, self-aggrandisement, etc.
Except for the brief period between 1975 and 1976, and December 1983 through August 1985, when attempts were made to bring sanity and decorum to the Nigerian polity, the story of succeeding governments was that of lost opportunities.
The misfortune the nation witnessed during military regime, manifested in political and economic stagnation in all sectors of the economy. There were also coups and couter-coups, annulment of elections, denials, killings of political opponents, etc.
The high hope Nigerians had about democratic dispensation was disillusioned early enough by greed and avarice of the ruling elite. All the vices that bedeviled the previous dispensations again reared their ugly heads.
In spite of unprecedented foreign exchange earnings accruing to the nation, the condition of an average Nigerian has not improved for the better.
Political leaders are power drunk. Political power has become an end in itself, and not a means to an end.
In all, it is the ordinary Nigerian, on whose behalf the independence was fought and won, that bears the brunt of mismanagement of the God-given human and material resources the nation is endowed with.
However, having survived socio-political upheavals like the Civil War, June 12 crisis, Niger Delta uprising, etc, and still remains a united nation, calls for celebration. But the fact that Nigeria is still contending with problems of nation building 50 years after independence, is a cause for concern. Afterall, nations that started the journey with us, which are even less endowed had left us behind in the race for development.
Nigeria: How Secure is the Nation?
Nigerians and indeed residents of the Federal Capital Territory, woke up on October 1, still basking in the euphoria of the nation's 50th independence anniversary celebrations that was unfolding. Many residents had no premonition that they would be confronted with two deadly bomb blasts that would kill 12 people including civilians and security operatives even as several people were also injured.
This unprecedented terrorist attack took place 500 meters away from the Eagle Square venue of the independence celebrations, where more than 15 heads of government and representatives of other world leaders were seated. President Goodluck Jonathan and his deputy, Namadi Sambo, as well as other top government functionaries were also in attendance.
The questions on everybody's lips have been: who masterminded this dastardly act against Nigeria on the very day it celebrated 50 years of nationhood? Why would anybody detonate bombs on Shehu Shagari Way, a route passed that morning by even foreign leaders who came to celebrate with Nigeria? Was it politically motivated? Was it a terrorist attack? Why now, some months to the 2011 general elections. Are there people in the presidential race with bombing antecedents that we need to watch out for? What were the security agencies doing? Questions, questions and questions.
Outraged by the killing of innocent Nigerians, President Goodluck Jonathan described the developmet as "a low, wicked and dastardly act of desperation by criminals and murderers who do not wish Nigeria well".
The explosions, which appeared to have been planted in a parked car tore to shreds about 26 vehicles parked opposite the Ministry of Justice on Shehu Shagari Way. The incident occurred between 11:15am and 12: 24pm killing about 12 people on the spot while some of the victims died in the hospitals.
"These bomb attacks are the worst anniversary gifts any nation can get," so declared Jonathan. Describing the incident as "sad and unfortunate", Jonathan said the purpose was to ensure that the celebration going on at the nearby Eagle Square was cancelled by all means.
A statement issued by presidential spokesman, Ima Niboro, expressed President Jonathan's grief and sympathy with the families of the victims of the blast, saying, "The president shares their consternation and understands their confoundment, as they mourn while the nation celebrates".
"The president wants these families to know that their loved ones have not died in vain. Rather they have paid the supreme price for our unity; and in their death, they have watered the tree of our freedom," he added.
The government assured that those behind the "vicious acts" would be found and would "pay dearly for this heinous crime". Speaking to journalists at the scene of the blasts which was littered with automobile parts, clothes worn by the victims, sandals, slippers, shoes, human parts, blood and other shrapnels, the Minister of Police Affairs, Alhaji Maina Waziri, said eight persons were confirmed dead and described the incident as an act of terrorism.
"I want to begin by thanking the Almighty for this 50th anniversary and also express my profound unhappiness with this incident that is a blight on this momentous day for all Nigerians but in this time of adversity, it is desirable of all Nigerians on this very good day to pray that these irritations that occur in this country is indeed brought to an end.
"The information I have is that there were two explosions which we can say the first explosion apparently planted in a taxi where the bomb exploded. Initial report indicate that there were no casualties, then there was another explosion within the space of ten minutes and that hurt a couple of citizens both members of the uniform cadre and civilians. The resultant effect is that about eight people are confirmed dead and 18 are injured. The casualty of both dead and the injured involve both members of the police and other security agencies as well as very innocent Nigerians," he said.
The minister further said: "I will also plead with them not to blow it out of proportion and allow the security agencies time to conduct their investigations. They should not be put under siege. They should be allowed to display the expertise for which government had spent a lot of money".
According to him, "I have done what I consider the non security interaction with members of the press. You will allow them to do their job. However, bomb blast is not a tea party, it is an act of terrorism".
Alleged MEND's Claims
Prior to the blasts, a group which claimed to be the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta Region (MEND) had issued an alert warning members of the public to avoid parked cars and dustbins. Immediately after the bombings, the same organisation said the high casualty figure should be blamed on the security agencies for failing to carry out their constitutional roles even after it had warned of the impending bomb blasts. This obviously raised the issue of preparedness of the nation's security network.
The first bomb, which had detonated at about 11: 15 am did not record any casualty. Probably because of Nigeria's lack of experience in managing crisis situations such as bomb blasts, stunned passers-by and security operatives massed around the site of the first blast when the second one exploded killing more than 12 persons.
There were also conflicting reports about another bomb which was poorly detonated inside the Eagle Square while some claimed it was accidental discharge which allegedly felled two mobile policemen. But the police said there was no such explosion inside the Eagle Square.
After the incident, the South African authorities promptly arrested Henry Okah, an alleged leader of the group. He had previously been questioned by the South African police and has since appeared in a South African court in connection with the bomb blasts.
Intelligence Alert/Failure of Security?
Did the nation's security agencies receive intelligence alert before the twin bombings? If they did, what did they do with it? At a news conference in Abuja, Assistant Director, Public Relations of the State Security Service (SSS), Marilyn Ogar, did confirm that the service received intelligence information before the blast.
According to her, the bombing was planned for Wednesday September 29, 2010 but was foiled as soon as the information was received during the early hours of September 28. The overriding objective of the group, she said, was to scare foreign visitors from attending the 50th anniversary celebration.
According to her, about 0130 hours on Tuesday, September 28, information was received that the three arms zone (Presidential Villa, National Assembly and the Supreme Court) was to be bombed and six vehicles had already being prepared for the purpose. At this point, she said, the service contacted the military which provided three towing trucks which were added to that of the service thus kick-starting a joint operation. During the joint operation, a total of nine abandoned vehicles were towed away.
"Of these, two were near the SSS headquarters, two facing the villa gate and the National Assembly and two close to police headquarters while one was stationed at the Eagle Square and two at the Apo Legislative Quarters. They were all towed away", she said.
Relevant Links
* West Africa
* Nigeria
* Terrorism
* Conflict
Following the development, the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) were co-opted into the operations to move around the capital towing away abandoned vehicles. The measure, she said, lasted till the morning of October 1, during which 65 abandoned vehicles were removed.
"It is worthy of note that out of the seven vehicles removed from the three arms zone, four are yet to be collected", she said.
According to her, when the plan A failed, they resorted to the penetration of the Eagle Square in an attempt to plant explosive devices but was countered by hi-tech equipment in and around the Eagle Square which jammed the detonation of any such explosives.
On October 1, she said, Eagle Square and surrounding areas were cordorned off and appropriate measures put in place while joint efforts by the security agencies were put in place.
"However, the rain showers of that morning provided the leeway for double parking by motorists. In the process, the perpetrators apparently gained access to park on the road side as well," she said."We got the information. After the 9/11 incidents in the US, it dawned on all nations that no singular nation can go it alone when it comes to security issue so there was enhanced collaboration with each nation so we share intelligence and information at that level so definitely we had advanced information that Nigeria was going to come under some form of attack.
"After the 9/11 terrorist bombings in the United States, we share intelligence. Intelligence is no longer the exclusive preserve of any nation. If you assess other people's country and you keep quiet when it is about to affect your country, the other people who have such information will keep quiet. We share intelligence with other foreign nationals concerning our own internal security", she said.
Inter-agency Collaboration
The issue of inter-agency collaboration was also an issue in carrying out investigations by security agencies. Recently, President Jonathan berated security agencies for running parallel investigations and making claims of superiority against each other.
"Our security agencies need to work in harmony to craft effective strategies for containing these challenges. Unfortunately, the glaring disconnect and lack of synergy as well as claims and counter claims over superiority among security agencies have diminished the effectiveness of government's efforts towards combating crime in the society", he said.
The lack of synergy between the security agencies also played out with the Police declaring two suspects wanted while the State Security Service (SSS) said it arrested nine suspects in connection with the incident whom it said had direct links with Henry Okah and other prominent Nigerians.
The SSS spokesperson had said in response to a question raised on the issue of collaboration that: "our mode of investigation is totally different from that of the police. Like I said, I would not know whether the two suspects the police is declaring wanted are on our list. With the ongoing investigations, I might not want to reveal the status of the suspects in our custody".
Henry Okah's Claims/Political Warfare
As expected, Henry Okah's claims in an interview with Al-Jazeera Television that a presidential aide called him to implicate northern politicians in the bomb blasts has generated a lot of controversy.
"On Saturday morning, just a day after the attack, a very close associate of President Jonathan called me and explained to me that there had been a bombing in Nigeria and that President Jonathan wanted me to reach out to the group, MEND and get them to retract the earlier statement they had issued claiming the attacks.
"They wanted me to blame the attack on Northerners who are trying to fight against him to come back as president and if this was done, I was not going to have any problems with South African government. I declined to do this and a few hours later, I was arrested. It was based on their belief that I was going to do that that Jonathan issued a statement that MEND did not carry out the attack", he said.
Okah's claim instantly triggered a bedlam. Other presidential aspirants accused government of complicity while the Northern Political Leaders Forum went one notch further by calling on President Jonathan to resign or be impeached.
The president instantly described the claims as outright lies and asked Okah to name the official that spoke to him and further described his action as that of a "drowning man determined to pull others down with him".
A joint statement signed by the campaign groups of of Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Aliyu Gusau and Bukola Saraki, all presidential aspirants, said Okah's allegations were weighty and sobering and if true, required independent judicial investigation. They expressed dismay with the manner government was handling issues of national security and the respect of the rights of law abiding citizens.
Dokpesi's Arrest
As the fireworks continued, Director General of the Ibrahim Babangida Campaign Organisation, Dr. Raymond Dokpesi, was arrested by the SSS in connection with the bomb blasts. The SSS claimed that it established exchange of two text messages between the suspects in its custody and Dokpesi, one claiming to have asked them to come and collect the "balance" of an unspecified amount while the second asked them to come for a meeting at the IBB campaign office.
The IBB campaign organisation also condemned the arrest and described the trend "as the growing politics of intolerance, intimidation, coercion, persecution and harassment". Dokpesi has since been released and is expected to report back to the SSS.
Babangida's Denial
Accusing fingers were also pointed at former military President, Ibrahim Babangida, who is also in the presidential race apparently on the grounds that the first case of bomb explosion, parcel bomb, that killed renowned journalist, Dele Giwa, took place under his watch as military leader.
He said "it will be idiotic for anyone to link me to that bomb blast because I know what the unity of this country means and that was why we fought to keep it together. So why should I get involved in such a mess?
"Naturally, when things like this happen, people will cast their imaginative and fertile minds into action and as we all know, Nigerians have very fertile minds but this is the price we pay for the love of our country and as politicians."
The former military president, who spoke in Minna, blamed the bomb blasts on lapses on the part of securitymen, adding that the security forces were given prior notice before the disaster yet nothing was done to avert the situation.
Politicisation of National Tragedy
True to character, Nigerian politicians especially the presidential aspirants had maximally exploited the situation by making huge political capital out of a national tragedy. The Adamu Ciroma led-Northern Elders' position on the matter had been roundly condemned as hasty and capable of inflaming passions as the natural position would have been to call for an inquiry instead of calling for the resignation or impeachment of the President.
President Jonathan has also reiterated his administration's resolve to get to the route of the matter and called the bluff of those using blackmail tactics to intimidate his government. "Blackmail and intimidation will not stop the Federal Government from doing the right thing. Whoever is found culpable will face the full weight of the law. We would be failing the past, present and future generations of Nigerians if we do not get to the root of this dastardly act and seek justice the way it should be done in a civilised society such as ours," the president said.
Relevant Links
* West Africa
* Nigeria
* Terrorism
* Conflict
He said further: "Dear friends, if the aim of the attackers is to create a sense of insecurity and panic across the nation in order to advance their narrow interests, Nigerians will stand up to them and make it clear that they cannot be intimidated."
From all indications, there is the need for caution by all parties to this debacle. The situation has also called to question the refusal by government to equip security agencies with the state- of- the- art technology as regards bombings and kidnappings.
When will Nigeria embrace forensic investigation? When will the Police bomb detection and disposal units be adequately equipped to work efficiently and effectively? When will CCTVs be installed in the nation's capital like other parts of the world? When will security agencies work in harmony and act fast on intelligence reports and most importantly, when will Nigerian politicians stop playing politics with the lives of innocent Nigerians? These are the questions begging for answers from the political class in and out of government
This unprecedented terrorist attack took place 500 meters away from the Eagle Square venue of the independence celebrations, where more than 15 heads of government and representatives of other world leaders were seated. President Goodluck Jonathan and his deputy, Namadi Sambo, as well as other top government functionaries were also in attendance.
The questions on everybody's lips have been: who masterminded this dastardly act against Nigeria on the very day it celebrated 50 years of nationhood? Why would anybody detonate bombs on Shehu Shagari Way, a route passed that morning by even foreign leaders who came to celebrate with Nigeria? Was it politically motivated? Was it a terrorist attack? Why now, some months to the 2011 general elections. Are there people in the presidential race with bombing antecedents that we need to watch out for? What were the security agencies doing? Questions, questions and questions.
Outraged by the killing of innocent Nigerians, President Goodluck Jonathan described the developmet as "a low, wicked and dastardly act of desperation by criminals and murderers who do not wish Nigeria well".
The explosions, which appeared to have been planted in a parked car tore to shreds about 26 vehicles parked opposite the Ministry of Justice on Shehu Shagari Way. The incident occurred between 11:15am and 12: 24pm killing about 12 people on the spot while some of the victims died in the hospitals.
"These bomb attacks are the worst anniversary gifts any nation can get," so declared Jonathan. Describing the incident as "sad and unfortunate", Jonathan said the purpose was to ensure that the celebration going on at the nearby Eagle Square was cancelled by all means.
A statement issued by presidential spokesman, Ima Niboro, expressed President Jonathan's grief and sympathy with the families of the victims of the blast, saying, "The president shares their consternation and understands their confoundment, as they mourn while the nation celebrates".
"The president wants these families to know that their loved ones have not died in vain. Rather they have paid the supreme price for our unity; and in their death, they have watered the tree of our freedom," he added.
The government assured that those behind the "vicious acts" would be found and would "pay dearly for this heinous crime". Speaking to journalists at the scene of the blasts which was littered with automobile parts, clothes worn by the victims, sandals, slippers, shoes, human parts, blood and other shrapnels, the Minister of Police Affairs, Alhaji Maina Waziri, said eight persons were confirmed dead and described the incident as an act of terrorism.
"I want to begin by thanking the Almighty for this 50th anniversary and also express my profound unhappiness with this incident that is a blight on this momentous day for all Nigerians but in this time of adversity, it is desirable of all Nigerians on this very good day to pray that these irritations that occur in this country is indeed brought to an end.
"The information I have is that there were two explosions which we can say the first explosion apparently planted in a taxi where the bomb exploded. Initial report indicate that there were no casualties, then there was another explosion within the space of ten minutes and that hurt a couple of citizens both members of the uniform cadre and civilians. The resultant effect is that about eight people are confirmed dead and 18 are injured. The casualty of both dead and the injured involve both members of the police and other security agencies as well as very innocent Nigerians," he said.
The minister further said: "I will also plead with them not to blow it out of proportion and allow the security agencies time to conduct their investigations. They should not be put under siege. They should be allowed to display the expertise for which government had spent a lot of money".
According to him, "I have done what I consider the non security interaction with members of the press. You will allow them to do their job. However, bomb blast is not a tea party, it is an act of terrorism".
Alleged MEND's Claims
Prior to the blasts, a group which claimed to be the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta Region (MEND) had issued an alert warning members of the public to avoid parked cars and dustbins. Immediately after the bombings, the same organisation said the high casualty figure should be blamed on the security agencies for failing to carry out their constitutional roles even after it had warned of the impending bomb blasts. This obviously raised the issue of preparedness of the nation's security network.
The first bomb, which had detonated at about 11: 15 am did not record any casualty. Probably because of Nigeria's lack of experience in managing crisis situations such as bomb blasts, stunned passers-by and security operatives massed around the site of the first blast when the second one exploded killing more than 12 persons.
There were also conflicting reports about another bomb which was poorly detonated inside the Eagle Square while some claimed it was accidental discharge which allegedly felled two mobile policemen. But the police said there was no such explosion inside the Eagle Square.
After the incident, the South African authorities promptly arrested Henry Okah, an alleged leader of the group. He had previously been questioned by the South African police and has since appeared in a South African court in connection with the bomb blasts.
Intelligence Alert/Failure of Security?
Did the nation's security agencies receive intelligence alert before the twin bombings? If they did, what did they do with it? At a news conference in Abuja, Assistant Director, Public Relations of the State Security Service (SSS), Marilyn Ogar, did confirm that the service received intelligence information before the blast.
According to her, the bombing was planned for Wednesday September 29, 2010 but was foiled as soon as the information was received during the early hours of September 28. The overriding objective of the group, she said, was to scare foreign visitors from attending the 50th anniversary celebration.
According to her, about 0130 hours on Tuesday, September 28, information was received that the three arms zone (Presidential Villa, National Assembly and the Supreme Court) was to be bombed and six vehicles had already being prepared for the purpose. At this point, she said, the service contacted the military which provided three towing trucks which were added to that of the service thus kick-starting a joint operation. During the joint operation, a total of nine abandoned vehicles were towed away.
"Of these, two were near the SSS headquarters, two facing the villa gate and the National Assembly and two close to police headquarters while one was stationed at the Eagle Square and two at the Apo Legislative Quarters. They were all towed away", she said.
Relevant Links
* West Africa
* Nigeria
* Terrorism
* Conflict
Following the development, the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) were co-opted into the operations to move around the capital towing away abandoned vehicles. The measure, she said, lasted till the morning of October 1, during which 65 abandoned vehicles were removed.
"It is worthy of note that out of the seven vehicles removed from the three arms zone, four are yet to be collected", she said.
According to her, when the plan A failed, they resorted to the penetration of the Eagle Square in an attempt to plant explosive devices but was countered by hi-tech equipment in and around the Eagle Square which jammed the detonation of any such explosives.
On October 1, she said, Eagle Square and surrounding areas were cordorned off and appropriate measures put in place while joint efforts by the security agencies were put in place.
"However, the rain showers of that morning provided the leeway for double parking by motorists. In the process, the perpetrators apparently gained access to park on the road side as well," she said."We got the information. After the 9/11 incidents in the US, it dawned on all nations that no singular nation can go it alone when it comes to security issue so there was enhanced collaboration with each nation so we share intelligence and information at that level so definitely we had advanced information that Nigeria was going to come under some form of attack.
"After the 9/11 terrorist bombings in the United States, we share intelligence. Intelligence is no longer the exclusive preserve of any nation. If you assess other people's country and you keep quiet when it is about to affect your country, the other people who have such information will keep quiet. We share intelligence with other foreign nationals concerning our own internal security", she said.
Inter-agency Collaboration
The issue of inter-agency collaboration was also an issue in carrying out investigations by security agencies. Recently, President Jonathan berated security agencies for running parallel investigations and making claims of superiority against each other.
"Our security agencies need to work in harmony to craft effective strategies for containing these challenges. Unfortunately, the glaring disconnect and lack of synergy as well as claims and counter claims over superiority among security agencies have diminished the effectiveness of government's efforts towards combating crime in the society", he said.
The lack of synergy between the security agencies also played out with the Police declaring two suspects wanted while the State Security Service (SSS) said it arrested nine suspects in connection with the incident whom it said had direct links with Henry Okah and other prominent Nigerians.
The SSS spokesperson had said in response to a question raised on the issue of collaboration that: "our mode of investigation is totally different from that of the police. Like I said, I would not know whether the two suspects the police is declaring wanted are on our list. With the ongoing investigations, I might not want to reveal the status of the suspects in our custody".
Henry Okah's Claims/Political Warfare
As expected, Henry Okah's claims in an interview with Al-Jazeera Television that a presidential aide called him to implicate northern politicians in the bomb blasts has generated a lot of controversy.
"On Saturday morning, just a day after the attack, a very close associate of President Jonathan called me and explained to me that there had been a bombing in Nigeria and that President Jonathan wanted me to reach out to the group, MEND and get them to retract the earlier statement they had issued claiming the attacks.
"They wanted me to blame the attack on Northerners who are trying to fight against him to come back as president and if this was done, I was not going to have any problems with South African government. I declined to do this and a few hours later, I was arrested. It was based on their belief that I was going to do that that Jonathan issued a statement that MEND did not carry out the attack", he said.
Okah's claim instantly triggered a bedlam. Other presidential aspirants accused government of complicity while the Northern Political Leaders Forum went one notch further by calling on President Jonathan to resign or be impeached.
The president instantly described the claims as outright lies and asked Okah to name the official that spoke to him and further described his action as that of a "drowning man determined to pull others down with him".
A joint statement signed by the campaign groups of of Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Aliyu Gusau and Bukola Saraki, all presidential aspirants, said Okah's allegations were weighty and sobering and if true, required independent judicial investigation. They expressed dismay with the manner government was handling issues of national security and the respect of the rights of law abiding citizens.
Dokpesi's Arrest
As the fireworks continued, Director General of the Ibrahim Babangida Campaign Organisation, Dr. Raymond Dokpesi, was arrested by the SSS in connection with the bomb blasts. The SSS claimed that it established exchange of two text messages between the suspects in its custody and Dokpesi, one claiming to have asked them to come and collect the "balance" of an unspecified amount while the second asked them to come for a meeting at the IBB campaign office.
The IBB campaign organisation also condemned the arrest and described the trend "as the growing politics of intolerance, intimidation, coercion, persecution and harassment". Dokpesi has since been released and is expected to report back to the SSS.
Babangida's Denial
Accusing fingers were also pointed at former military President, Ibrahim Babangida, who is also in the presidential race apparently on the grounds that the first case of bomb explosion, parcel bomb, that killed renowned journalist, Dele Giwa, took place under his watch as military leader.
He said "it will be idiotic for anyone to link me to that bomb blast because I know what the unity of this country means and that was why we fought to keep it together. So why should I get involved in such a mess?
"Naturally, when things like this happen, people will cast their imaginative and fertile minds into action and as we all know, Nigerians have very fertile minds but this is the price we pay for the love of our country and as politicians."
The former military president, who spoke in Minna, blamed the bomb blasts on lapses on the part of securitymen, adding that the security forces were given prior notice before the disaster yet nothing was done to avert the situation.
Politicisation of National Tragedy
True to character, Nigerian politicians especially the presidential aspirants had maximally exploited the situation by making huge political capital out of a national tragedy. The Adamu Ciroma led-Northern Elders' position on the matter had been roundly condemned as hasty and capable of inflaming passions as the natural position would have been to call for an inquiry instead of calling for the resignation or impeachment of the President.
President Jonathan has also reiterated his administration's resolve to get to the route of the matter and called the bluff of those using blackmail tactics to intimidate his government. "Blackmail and intimidation will not stop the Federal Government from doing the right thing. Whoever is found culpable will face the full weight of the law. We would be failing the past, present and future generations of Nigerians if we do not get to the root of this dastardly act and seek justice the way it should be done in a civilised society such as ours," the president said.
Relevant Links
* West Africa
* Nigeria
* Terrorism
* Conflict
He said further: "Dear friends, if the aim of the attackers is to create a sense of insecurity and panic across the nation in order to advance their narrow interests, Nigerians will stand up to them and make it clear that they cannot be intimidated."
From all indications, there is the need for caution by all parties to this debacle. The situation has also called to question the refusal by government to equip security agencies with the state- of- the- art technology as regards bombings and kidnappings.
When will Nigeria embrace forensic investigation? When will the Police bomb detection and disposal units be adequately equipped to work efficiently and effectively? When will CCTVs be installed in the nation's capital like other parts of the world? When will security agencies work in harmony and act fast on intelligence reports and most importantly, when will Nigerian politicians stop playing politics with the lives of innocent Nigerians? These are the questions begging for answers from the political class in and out of government
More bank directors ’ll be jailed –Sanusi •Nigeria is world’s 3rd fastest growing economy – IMF
GOVERNOR of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mallam Lamido Sanusi, has vowed that fraudulent directors of banks operating in Nigeria will go to jail. Sanusi said this after he was presented with an award in the United States of America by Euromoney Institutional Investor Plc as an outstanding Central Bank Governor in sub-Sahara Africa in the Emerging Market.
The move is designed to sanitise the Nigerian banking industry of corrupt practices and encourage inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) into the Nigerian economy.
Former Chief Executive Officer of Oceanic Bank International Plc, Dr (Mrs) Cecilia Ibru, sacked by the CBN last year after an indictment by the joint audit report of the apex bank and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), was sentenced to six months imprisonment on Friday by a federal high court in Lagos.
In the ruling of the court, she forfeited assets worth N191 billion after pleading guilty to a three-count charge of misappropriation of depositors’ fund.
Sanusi disclosed on Saturday in Washington DC, that the CBN had enough evidence to jail fraudulent bank directors that mismanaged depositors fund. According to him, “I know what I saw in the report of weak banks investigated by our auditors from the first day and have no doubt these people would go to jail. I have no doubt that everybody we are trying will go to jail.”
Sanusi explained that the sanitisation of the banking industry was not about individuals as the CBN continued with the legal process but was designed to ensure the safety of depositors’ fund.
He said: “A year ago, when we removed Mrs Ibru, the story was that it was not possible and that it would not last. When we started the trial, the story was that in Nigeria, it is not possible to jail a CEO.
The time that people who were rich and were connected would go free when they committed offence is now a thing of the past.”
Sanusi vowed that if any of the directors of banks in Nigeria should commit any offence, they will pay the price for it, no matter the level of connection and political influence. “For the fact that Mrs Ibru today is convicted is a big lesson for the elite, the rich and the powerful people in Nigeria. It is not perfect, it is not ideal but maybe I would have wanted more but in the circumstance, the Justice Ministry has done very well and the minister must be commended for holding firm on the trial,” he said.
“I think it is a good thing for the country. It has shown that the way people think, that maybe because somebody is my friend or from one part of the country, will make them go free if they are caught, will no longer happen,” he added.
Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has announced that Nigeria is the third fastest growing economy in the world after China and India, as a result of the growth of the nation’s economy from 6.9 per cent in 2009 to 7.4 per cent this year.
The Minister of Finance, Dr Olusegun Aganga, who described this rating by IMF as a good development at a time when the economies of the developed countries were contracting, said with new policies being initiated by the Federal Government, the economy would witness a turnaround in a very short time.
“What we need in Nigeria is continuity in policies and leadership to sustain the growth,” he advocated.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Sanusi at the World Bank/IMF meetings in Washington DC, Aganga said the economic prospect was bright because despite the fact that Nigeria was yet to take advantage of opportunities and resources available within the country, it achieved 7.4 per cent growth and 48 per cent increase in revenue in the first half of the year.
Among the advantages he identified were existence of 33 untapped solid minerals, steady increase in the oil revenue and 75 million telecommunic-ations subscribers.
“If we have continuity in policy, a lot will be done in the economy and we will do more as shown with the increase in oil revenue by 46 per cent during the first six months of 2010,” he said.
However, Dr Aganga said “the Federal Government requires N100 billion to finance infrastructure development for the next four years in order to add two per cent to the gross domestic product (GDP) of Nigeria.”
He made reference to the state of the manufacturing sector, where operators put 40 per cent of cost on power generation, saying, if infrastructure in Lagos and other places were upgraded, there would be a major relief across the country.
“This could be our decade. I am more excited about the country today than few years back,” Aganga said.
The finance minister, who also is the chairman of World Bank 2010 annual meeting, confirmed his push for Africa to emerge as the president of World Bank and Managing Director of the IMF.
“Of course and it is clear that since 1946, the president of the World Bank has always been from America and the MD of IMF is always from Europe . We are all in agreement that it should change. The appointment to leadership positions should be open to all members, transparent and based on merit going forward. That is part of the reform.”
He added that he had been making the case to increase the quota of the constituency in Africa.
“Whatever we come out with, it is better that we protect the quota of low-income countries in Africa and small medium countries. That is important because it determines the aids to get and the voice in policy issues,” he assured.
Meanwhile, the CBN has raised concerns over the rate Nigeria’s foreign reserves is depleting, saying that plans are underway to slow the pace of spending from the reserves to defend the naira.
Sanusi told newsmen at the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank meeting, at the weekend, adding that the apex bank must make sure the Federal Government did not have access to “easy money” to continue its deficit spending habits.
A series of factors that had been driving the CBN to draw down its forex reserves in defense of the naira were winding down, as the bank reported that its forex reserves were down by 15 per cent from a year earlier at about $34.57 billion, including a seven percent decline in the last few weeks.
“I think we’ll see less spending, but I think the naira will remain stable,” Sanusi said.
The naira slid to a 13-month low in September amid strong local demand for the United States dollar by gasoline and rice importers.
Sanusi said the current exchange rate was not a level that needed to be maintained “at all costs,” adding that “in the short to medium term, we do believe we can maintain this range.”
It will be recalled that the CBN surprised analysts and investors, last month, by raising its benchmark interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point to 6.25 per cent.
The move is designed to sanitise the Nigerian banking industry of corrupt practices and encourage inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) into the Nigerian economy.
Former Chief Executive Officer of Oceanic Bank International Plc, Dr (Mrs) Cecilia Ibru, sacked by the CBN last year after an indictment by the joint audit report of the apex bank and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), was sentenced to six months imprisonment on Friday by a federal high court in Lagos.
In the ruling of the court, she forfeited assets worth N191 billion after pleading guilty to a three-count charge of misappropriation of depositors’ fund.
Sanusi disclosed on Saturday in Washington DC, that the CBN had enough evidence to jail fraudulent bank directors that mismanaged depositors fund. According to him, “I know what I saw in the report of weak banks investigated by our auditors from the first day and have no doubt these people would go to jail. I have no doubt that everybody we are trying will go to jail.”
Sanusi explained that the sanitisation of the banking industry was not about individuals as the CBN continued with the legal process but was designed to ensure the safety of depositors’ fund.
He said: “A year ago, when we removed Mrs Ibru, the story was that it was not possible and that it would not last. When we started the trial, the story was that in Nigeria, it is not possible to jail a CEO.
The time that people who were rich and were connected would go free when they committed offence is now a thing of the past.”
Sanusi vowed that if any of the directors of banks in Nigeria should commit any offence, they will pay the price for it, no matter the level of connection and political influence. “For the fact that Mrs Ibru today is convicted is a big lesson for the elite, the rich and the powerful people in Nigeria. It is not perfect, it is not ideal but maybe I would have wanted more but in the circumstance, the Justice Ministry has done very well and the minister must be commended for holding firm on the trial,” he said.
“I think it is a good thing for the country. It has shown that the way people think, that maybe because somebody is my friend or from one part of the country, will make them go free if they are caught, will no longer happen,” he added.
Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has announced that Nigeria is the third fastest growing economy in the world after China and India, as a result of the growth of the nation’s economy from 6.9 per cent in 2009 to 7.4 per cent this year.
The Minister of Finance, Dr Olusegun Aganga, who described this rating by IMF as a good development at a time when the economies of the developed countries were contracting, said with new policies being initiated by the Federal Government, the economy would witness a turnaround in a very short time.
“What we need in Nigeria is continuity in policies and leadership to sustain the growth,” he advocated.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Sanusi at the World Bank/IMF meetings in Washington DC, Aganga said the economic prospect was bright because despite the fact that Nigeria was yet to take advantage of opportunities and resources available within the country, it achieved 7.4 per cent growth and 48 per cent increase in revenue in the first half of the year.
Among the advantages he identified were existence of 33 untapped solid minerals, steady increase in the oil revenue and 75 million telecommunic-ations subscribers.
“If we have continuity in policy, a lot will be done in the economy and we will do more as shown with the increase in oil revenue by 46 per cent during the first six months of 2010,” he said.
However, Dr Aganga said “the Federal Government requires N100 billion to finance infrastructure development for the next four years in order to add two per cent to the gross domestic product (GDP) of Nigeria.”
He made reference to the state of the manufacturing sector, where operators put 40 per cent of cost on power generation, saying, if infrastructure in Lagos and other places were upgraded, there would be a major relief across the country.
“This could be our decade. I am more excited about the country today than few years back,” Aganga said.
The finance minister, who also is the chairman of World Bank 2010 annual meeting, confirmed his push for Africa to emerge as the president of World Bank and Managing Director of the IMF.
“Of course and it is clear that since 1946, the president of the World Bank has always been from America and the MD of IMF is always from Europe . We are all in agreement that it should change. The appointment to leadership positions should be open to all members, transparent and based on merit going forward. That is part of the reform.”
He added that he had been making the case to increase the quota of the constituency in Africa.
“Whatever we come out with, it is better that we protect the quota of low-income countries in Africa and small medium countries. That is important because it determines the aids to get and the voice in policy issues,” he assured.
Meanwhile, the CBN has raised concerns over the rate Nigeria’s foreign reserves is depleting, saying that plans are underway to slow the pace of spending from the reserves to defend the naira.
Sanusi told newsmen at the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank meeting, at the weekend, adding that the apex bank must make sure the Federal Government did not have access to “easy money” to continue its deficit spending habits.
A series of factors that had been driving the CBN to draw down its forex reserves in defense of the naira were winding down, as the bank reported that its forex reserves were down by 15 per cent from a year earlier at about $34.57 billion, including a seven percent decline in the last few weeks.
“I think we’ll see less spending, but I think the naira will remain stable,” Sanusi said.
The naira slid to a 13-month low in September amid strong local demand for the United States dollar by gasoline and rice importers.
Sanusi said the current exchange rate was not a level that needed to be maintained “at all costs,” adding that “in the short to medium term, we do believe we can maintain this range.”
It will be recalled that the CBN surprised analysts and investors, last month, by raising its benchmark interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point to 6.25 per cent.
More bank directors ’ll be jailed –Sanusi •Nigeria is world’s 3rd fastest growing economy – IMF
GOVERNOR of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mallam Lamido Sanusi, has vowed that fraudulent directors of banks operating in Nigeria will go to jail. Sanusi said this after he was presented with an award in the United States of America by Euromoney Institutional Investor Plc as an outstanding Central Bank Governor in sub-Sahara Africa in the Emerging Market.
The move is designed to sanitise the Nigerian banking industry of corrupt practices and encourage inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) into the Nigerian economy.
Former Chief Executive Officer of Oceanic Bank International Plc, Dr (Mrs) Cecilia Ibru, sacked by the CBN last year after an indictment by the joint audit report of the apex bank and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), was sentenced to six months imprisonment on Friday by a federal high court in Lagos.
In the ruling of the court, she forfeited assets worth N191 billion after pleading guilty to a three-count charge of misappropriation of depositors’ fund.
Sanusi disclosed on Saturday in Washington DC, that the CBN had enough evidence to jail fraudulent bank directors that mismanaged depositors fund. According to him, “I know what I saw in the report of weak banks investigated by our auditors from the first day and have no doubt these people would go to jail. I have no doubt that everybody we are trying will go to jail.”
Sanusi explained that the sanitisation of the banking industry was not about individuals as the CBN continued with the legal process but was designed to ensure the safety of depositors’ fund.
He said: “A year ago, when we removed Mrs Ibru, the story was that it was not possible and that it would not last. When we started the trial, the story was that in Nigeria, it is not possible to jail a CEO.
The time that people who were rich and were connected would go free when they committed offence is now a thing of the past.”
Sanusi vowed that if any of the directors of banks in Nigeria should commit any offence, they will pay the price for it, no matter the level of connection and political influence. “For the fact that Mrs Ibru today is convicted is a big lesson for the elite, the rich and the powerful people in Nigeria. It is not perfect, it is not ideal but maybe I would have wanted more but in the circumstance, the Justice Ministry has done very well and the minister must be commended for holding firm on the trial,” he said.
“I think it is a good thing for the country. It has shown that the way people think, that maybe because somebody is my friend or from one part of the country, will make them go free if they are caught, will no longer happen,” he added.
Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has announced that Nigeria is the third fastest growing economy in the world after China and India, as a result of the growth of the nation’s economy from 6.9 per cent in 2009 to 7.4 per cent this year.
The Minister of Finance, Dr Olusegun Aganga, who described this rating by IMF as a good development at a time when the economies of the developed countries were contracting, said with new policies being initiated by the Federal Government, the economy would witness a turnaround in a very short time.
“What we need in Nigeria is continuity in policies and leadership to sustain the growth,” he advocated.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Sanusi at the World Bank/IMF meetings in Washington DC, Aganga said the economic prospect was bright because despite the fact that Nigeria was yet to take advantage of opportunities and resources available within the country, it achieved 7.4 per cent growth and 48 per cent increase in revenue in the first half of the year.
Among the advantages he identified were existence of 33 untapped solid minerals, steady increase in the oil revenue and 75 million telecommunic-ations subscribers.
“If we have continuity in policy, a lot will be done in the economy and we will do more as shown with the increase in oil revenue by 46 per cent during the first six months of 2010,” he said.
However, Dr Aganga said “the Federal Government requires N100 billion to finance infrastructure development for the next four years in order to add two per cent to the gross domestic product (GDP) of Nigeria.”
He made reference to the state of the manufacturing sector, where operators put 40 per cent of cost on power generation, saying, if infrastructure in Lagos and other places were upgraded, there would be a major relief across the country.
“This could be our decade. I am more excited about the country today than few years back,” Aganga said.
The finance minister, who also is the chairman of World Bank 2010 annual meeting, confirmed his push for Africa to emerge as the president of World Bank and Managing Director of the IMF.
“Of course and it is clear that since 1946, the president of the World Bank has always been from America and the MD of IMF is always from Europe . We are all in agreement that it should change. The appointment to leadership positions should be open to all members, transparent and based on merit going forward. That is part of the reform.”
He added that he had been making the case to increase the quota of the constituency in Africa.
“Whatever we come out with, it is better that we protect the quota of low-income countries in Africa and small medium countries. That is important because it determines the aids to get and the voice in policy issues,” he assured.
Meanwhile, the CBN has raised concerns over the rate Nigeria’s foreign reserves is depleting, saying that plans are underway to slow the pace of spending from the reserves to defend the naira.
Sanusi told newsmen at the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank meeting, at the weekend, adding that the apex bank must make sure the Federal Government did not have access to “easy money” to continue its deficit spending habits.
A series of factors that had been driving the CBN to draw down its forex reserves in defense of the naira were winding down, as the bank reported that its forex reserves were down by 15 per cent from a year earlier at about $34.57 billion, including a seven percent decline in the last few weeks.
“I think we’ll see less spending, but I think the naira will remain stable,” Sanusi said.
The naira slid to a 13-month low in September amid strong local demand for the United States dollar by gasoline and rice importers.
Sanusi said the current exchange rate was not a level that needed to be maintained “at all costs,” adding that “in the short to medium term, we do believe we can maintain this range.”
It will be recalled that the CBN surprised analysts and investors, last month, by raising its benchmark interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point to 6.25 per cent.
The move is designed to sanitise the Nigerian banking industry of corrupt practices and encourage inflow of foreign direct investment (FDI) into the Nigerian economy.
Former Chief Executive Officer of Oceanic Bank International Plc, Dr (Mrs) Cecilia Ibru, sacked by the CBN last year after an indictment by the joint audit report of the apex bank and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), was sentenced to six months imprisonment on Friday by a federal high court in Lagos.
In the ruling of the court, she forfeited assets worth N191 billion after pleading guilty to a three-count charge of misappropriation of depositors’ fund.
Sanusi disclosed on Saturday in Washington DC, that the CBN had enough evidence to jail fraudulent bank directors that mismanaged depositors fund. According to him, “I know what I saw in the report of weak banks investigated by our auditors from the first day and have no doubt these people would go to jail. I have no doubt that everybody we are trying will go to jail.”
Sanusi explained that the sanitisation of the banking industry was not about individuals as the CBN continued with the legal process but was designed to ensure the safety of depositors’ fund.
He said: “A year ago, when we removed Mrs Ibru, the story was that it was not possible and that it would not last. When we started the trial, the story was that in Nigeria, it is not possible to jail a CEO.
The time that people who were rich and were connected would go free when they committed offence is now a thing of the past.”
Sanusi vowed that if any of the directors of banks in Nigeria should commit any offence, they will pay the price for it, no matter the level of connection and political influence. “For the fact that Mrs Ibru today is convicted is a big lesson for the elite, the rich and the powerful people in Nigeria. It is not perfect, it is not ideal but maybe I would have wanted more but in the circumstance, the Justice Ministry has done very well and the minister must be commended for holding firm on the trial,” he said.
“I think it is a good thing for the country. It has shown that the way people think, that maybe because somebody is my friend or from one part of the country, will make them go free if they are caught, will no longer happen,” he added.
Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has announced that Nigeria is the third fastest growing economy in the world after China and India, as a result of the growth of the nation’s economy from 6.9 per cent in 2009 to 7.4 per cent this year.
The Minister of Finance, Dr Olusegun Aganga, who described this rating by IMF as a good development at a time when the economies of the developed countries were contracting, said with new policies being initiated by the Federal Government, the economy would witness a turnaround in a very short time.
“What we need in Nigeria is continuity in policies and leadership to sustain the growth,” he advocated.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Sanusi at the World Bank/IMF meetings in Washington DC, Aganga said the economic prospect was bright because despite the fact that Nigeria was yet to take advantage of opportunities and resources available within the country, it achieved 7.4 per cent growth and 48 per cent increase in revenue in the first half of the year.
Among the advantages he identified were existence of 33 untapped solid minerals, steady increase in the oil revenue and 75 million telecommunic-ations subscribers.
“If we have continuity in policy, a lot will be done in the economy and we will do more as shown with the increase in oil revenue by 46 per cent during the first six months of 2010,” he said.
However, Dr Aganga said “the Federal Government requires N100 billion to finance infrastructure development for the next four years in order to add two per cent to the gross domestic product (GDP) of Nigeria.”
He made reference to the state of the manufacturing sector, where operators put 40 per cent of cost on power generation, saying, if infrastructure in Lagos and other places were upgraded, there would be a major relief across the country.
“This could be our decade. I am more excited about the country today than few years back,” Aganga said.
The finance minister, who also is the chairman of World Bank 2010 annual meeting, confirmed his push for Africa to emerge as the president of World Bank and Managing Director of the IMF.
“Of course and it is clear that since 1946, the president of the World Bank has always been from America and the MD of IMF is always from Europe . We are all in agreement that it should change. The appointment to leadership positions should be open to all members, transparent and based on merit going forward. That is part of the reform.”
He added that he had been making the case to increase the quota of the constituency in Africa.
“Whatever we come out with, it is better that we protect the quota of low-income countries in Africa and small medium countries. That is important because it determines the aids to get and the voice in policy issues,” he assured.
Meanwhile, the CBN has raised concerns over the rate Nigeria’s foreign reserves is depleting, saying that plans are underway to slow the pace of spending from the reserves to defend the naira.
Sanusi told newsmen at the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank meeting, at the weekend, adding that the apex bank must make sure the Federal Government did not have access to “easy money” to continue its deficit spending habits.
A series of factors that had been driving the CBN to draw down its forex reserves in defense of the naira were winding down, as the bank reported that its forex reserves were down by 15 per cent from a year earlier at about $34.57 billion, including a seven percent decline in the last few weeks.
“I think we’ll see less spending, but I think the naira will remain stable,” Sanusi said.
The naira slid to a 13-month low in September amid strong local demand for the United States dollar by gasoline and rice importers.
Sanusi said the current exchange rate was not a level that needed to be maintained “at all costs,” adding that “in the short to medium term, we do believe we can maintain this range.”
It will be recalled that the CBN surprised analysts and investors, last month, by raising its benchmark interest rate by a quarter of a percentage point to 6.25 per cent.
Friday, 17 September 2010
Revolutionary Messaging Solution, Nokia C3 Unveiled
The world leader in mobile phone, Nokia, has unveiled a ground-breaking messaging solution on the new Nokia C3, which among other features, offers instant messaging to its users.
The good-looking, affordable handset that allows users to stay continually connected to communities that suits their lifestyles – whether it’s via email, social networks or IM buddies, the new Nokia C3 offers access to Yahoo mail & Messenger, Gmail, MSN Hotmail, Windows Live Messenger, Facebook & Twitter, according to the Communications Manager, West Africa, Osagie Ogunbor in a statement issued, the mobile device is built with social networking in mind.
“The Nokia C3 offers instant access to favorite social communities such as Facebook and Twitter straight from the home screen, which allows users to easily view, post, comment and update their status.
Getting messages across is quick, thanks to the full QWERTY key board and managing email, chat, calendar and music is simple with dedicated widgets on the home screen.
In addition, he also stated that Nokia has also announced that users of this device would be required to pay a revolutionary data monthly subscription of N1000 only on the MTN network, as the device was launched in partnership with MTN Nigeria. This means that they will have access to all their email, chat, social networks and internet and chat online at a very affordable cost. Nokia is also offering all consumers 1 month free on the MTN Network.
At an interactive media launch held at Silver bird Galleria, Lagos recently, Nokia’s representative in Nigeria, Mr. Marcel Van-de-pas also noted that this solution meets the desire of Nigerians who are always on the lookout for a stylish and superb business device as the Nokia C3
“The Nokia C3 also allows users to surf the web where ever they are so they can be sure to keep in touch with their friends and family, whenever they like. Nokia is the number one leader when it comes to giving consumers solutions to their mobile needs and with Nokia’s Ovi mail and Ovi chat on board, email and chats can be set up straight from the device.
The good-looking, affordable handset that allows users to stay continually connected to communities that suits their lifestyles – whether it’s via email, social networks or IM buddies, the new Nokia C3 offers access to Yahoo mail & Messenger, Gmail, MSN Hotmail, Windows Live Messenger, Facebook & Twitter, according to the Communications Manager, West Africa, Osagie Ogunbor in a statement issued, the mobile device is built with social networking in mind.
“The Nokia C3 offers instant access to favorite social communities such as Facebook and Twitter straight from the home screen, which allows users to easily view, post, comment and update their status.
Getting messages across is quick, thanks to the full QWERTY key board and managing email, chat, calendar and music is simple with dedicated widgets on the home screen.
In addition, he also stated that Nokia has also announced that users of this device would be required to pay a revolutionary data monthly subscription of N1000 only on the MTN network, as the device was launched in partnership with MTN Nigeria. This means that they will have access to all their email, chat, social networks and internet and chat online at a very affordable cost. Nokia is also offering all consumers 1 month free on the MTN Network.
At an interactive media launch held at Silver bird Galleria, Lagos recently, Nokia’s representative in Nigeria, Mr. Marcel Van-de-pas also noted that this solution meets the desire of Nigerians who are always on the lookout for a stylish and superb business device as the Nokia C3
“The Nokia C3 also allows users to surf the web where ever they are so they can be sure to keep in touch with their friends and family, whenever they like. Nokia is the number one leader when it comes to giving consumers solutions to their mobile needs and with Nokia’s Ovi mail and Ovi chat on board, email and chats can be set up straight from the device.
Power Sector to Get N400bn from Pensions Fund •CBN rejects bids for some rescued banks •MPC to tackle inflation, rising expenditure
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, said yesterday that about N400 billion from Pension Funds will be deployed in the power projects to encourage investment in that sector.
He also said some bids for the rescued banks may be rejected.
Sanusi was quoted by Bloomberg as saying at a conference in London that the role of the apex bank would be to “provide the comfort and the guarantees to allow the release of the money to viable and eligible power projects.”
President Goodluck Jonathan had last month announced a plan to end the Federal Government monopoly of the power sector and expand electricity generation through private investment.
The government proposed to sell 11 distribution units of Power Holding Company of Nigeria and allow private companies to build gas-fired, coal-fuelled and hydroelectric plants.
It also plans to increase output to 14,019 megawatts by 2013.
Sanusi told Bloomberg that out of about N2 trillion of pension funds in the country, the CBN is working with the Pensions Commission “to see how we can unlock about N400 billion of that into power infrastructure.”
The Finance Minister, Mr Olusegun Aganga, had said that the country could achieve an annual growth rate of 10 per cent if the government improves its power and transport capacity.
Nigeria achieved growth of 7.4 per cent in the first half of the year, compared with 5.9 per cent in the same period last year, the Bloomberg report quoted Sanusi to have said further.
The CBN Governor pointed out that the apex bank is targeting an inflation rate of less than 10 per cent.
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) changed the CPI basket last month, reducing the weighting of food to 50.7 per cent from 63.7 per cent.
Prior to the re-weighting, inflation was at 10.3 per cent.
“Last month’s reduction of the weighting of food in the inflation basket may help the bank achieve that goal by reducing the impact of rising costs on the overall inflation rate. For cosmetic reasons, it is extremely important to make sure that we attack inflation.
“Reducing the weight given to food actually improves the efficacy of monetary policy in checking inflation so we should be able to target single digit and basically address that through adjustments in monetary variables,” Sanusi said.
The CBN Governor also told Reuters that the CBN had received good bids for some of the rescued banks but he needed to protect shareholder value “and not every bid would be accepted.”
He said: "We would like to complete deals as soon as possible but we need to protect shareholder value. Many people are of the opinion that these banks are there for the taking and they can get them for nothing. Some of the bids are very good, some of them are acceptable given where we stand. Given that we have AMCON and they can recapitalise the banks, we can get a better deal, so we don't have to accept every offer."
On what to expect at the meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) scheduled for next week in Abuja, the apex bank chief said: “The discussions at MPC next week will be on the relative balance of inflation and expenditure.”
The governor said the country must fashion out strategies to “attack” inflation, which he noted reached an annual 13 per cent in July after a re-weighting of the consumer price index.
Sanusi disclosed that bank lending has not been growing as expected while the upside risk to inflation is very high.
He said that higher government spending, with elections due next January, and the establishment of the Asset Management Company (AMCON) to soak up bad bank loans should help put more money into the system, meaning the inflation risk was not zero.
"(The risk) is there with an election year and with money likely to come in with the asset management corporation," he said.
He also said some bids for the rescued banks may be rejected.
Sanusi was quoted by Bloomberg as saying at a conference in London that the role of the apex bank would be to “provide the comfort and the guarantees to allow the release of the money to viable and eligible power projects.”
President Goodluck Jonathan had last month announced a plan to end the Federal Government monopoly of the power sector and expand electricity generation through private investment.
The government proposed to sell 11 distribution units of Power Holding Company of Nigeria and allow private companies to build gas-fired, coal-fuelled and hydroelectric plants.
It also plans to increase output to 14,019 megawatts by 2013.
Sanusi told Bloomberg that out of about N2 trillion of pension funds in the country, the CBN is working with the Pensions Commission “to see how we can unlock about N400 billion of that into power infrastructure.”
The Finance Minister, Mr Olusegun Aganga, had said that the country could achieve an annual growth rate of 10 per cent if the government improves its power and transport capacity.
Nigeria achieved growth of 7.4 per cent in the first half of the year, compared with 5.9 per cent in the same period last year, the Bloomberg report quoted Sanusi to have said further.
The CBN Governor pointed out that the apex bank is targeting an inflation rate of less than 10 per cent.
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) changed the CPI basket last month, reducing the weighting of food to 50.7 per cent from 63.7 per cent.
Prior to the re-weighting, inflation was at 10.3 per cent.
“Last month’s reduction of the weighting of food in the inflation basket may help the bank achieve that goal by reducing the impact of rising costs on the overall inflation rate. For cosmetic reasons, it is extremely important to make sure that we attack inflation.
“Reducing the weight given to food actually improves the efficacy of monetary policy in checking inflation so we should be able to target single digit and basically address that through adjustments in monetary variables,” Sanusi said.
The CBN Governor also told Reuters that the CBN had received good bids for some of the rescued banks but he needed to protect shareholder value “and not every bid would be accepted.”
He said: "We would like to complete deals as soon as possible but we need to protect shareholder value. Many people are of the opinion that these banks are there for the taking and they can get them for nothing. Some of the bids are very good, some of them are acceptable given where we stand. Given that we have AMCON and they can recapitalise the banks, we can get a better deal, so we don't have to accept every offer."
On what to expect at the meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) scheduled for next week in Abuja, the apex bank chief said: “The discussions at MPC next week will be on the relative balance of inflation and expenditure.”
The governor said the country must fashion out strategies to “attack” inflation, which he noted reached an annual 13 per cent in July after a re-weighting of the consumer price index.
Sanusi disclosed that bank lending has not been growing as expected while the upside risk to inflation is very high.
He said that higher government spending, with elections due next January, and the establishment of the Asset Management Company (AMCON) to soak up bad bank loans should help put more money into the system, meaning the inflation risk was not zero.
"(The risk) is there with an election year and with money likely to come in with the asset management corporation," he said.
Ribadu, Tofa Declare, Atiku Writes All PDP Delegates •‘EFCC never investigated Jonathan’s wife’
Former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFFC), Mallam Nuhu Ribabu, has finally confirmed his intention to contest in the 2011 presidential election, saying he wants to “remake” Nigeria.
He also dismissed the long-held belief that the EFCC investigated the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, for money laundering.
Today, the presidential candidate of the defunct National Republican Convention (NRC) in the June 12, 1993 election, Alhaji Bashir Tofa, will launch his presidential bid on the platform of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP),
And in a novel gesture to woo support for his aspiration, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar yesterday wrote letters to over 3,400 statutory delegates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including President Goodluck Jonathan, urging them to give him their votes in the party’s primary election.
Ribadu promised that Nigeria would become a new country within two years if he is elected. Although, Ribadu said he was yet to decide on which platform he would run, he passionately said he had a dream for a new Nigeria. He said he wants to see a "new thing, a fresh thing" and build a nation out of the country.
The former anti-corruption Czar made these known when he met with journalists in Abuja yesterday, promising a formal declaration later.
“I have a dream of a new Nigeria, a changed Nigeria; I want to see if there is a possibility of opening a new chapter and those who are in charge somehow certainly need to give chance for the country to move forward," he said.
His areas of priority, he said, would be security, fighting corruption, providing electricity, improving education, building hospitals and helping Nigeria become an industrialised nation.
Giving reasons why he is running at the federal level in spite of his little or no experience in politics, Ribadu said: “I have experience in public service. I put 25 years of my life into service to the Federal Government of Nigeria in the executive capacity. After that, of course, I served outside Nigeria, I worked and have acquired international experience.
“I had the chance to set up an agency and ran it for five years and I was in the economic team as well as a federal prosecutor, probably more than any other person in that capacity. I was a police officer, a public worker, I put all my life to service in the federal level and it is really natural for you to put all of that into where the experience best fits, yes I will contest for the presidency.”
Asked how he intends to fund his campaign, he explained that contributions from ordinary Nigerians would be used by his team.
Ribadu also denied allegations that he mishandled a corruption case against Dame Patience, when her husband, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, was governor of Bayelsa State.
He said that it was propaganda to taint his image and that of Jonathan during the 2007 polls.
Ribadu explained that the EFCC never handled any case against Patience. “The case had to do with a lady and a man who lodged huge sums of money in the bank. The EFCC was alerted by the bank and an investigation was carried out,” he said.
According to him, it was found that they legitimately earned the money through contracts executed in the state. All the reports in the media were lies, he insisted.
“For instance, it was initially reported that N70 million was lodged into the bank. Later, it was reported that the money ran into millions of dollars. Such was the extent of the lies,” he said, maintaining: “We never handled a case against Patience Jonathan.”
Meanwhile, Tofa is set to declare his presidential ambition on the platform of ANPP today in Abuja.
The declaration which is billed to take place at Chelsea Hotel is expected to hold in the evening
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday nullified the positions of the two factions of the ANPP who have been fighting over the control of the party.
INEC, in a letter dated 15th September, 2010 and addressed to the Chairman of the convention committee, said the resolutions of the two factions of the party which took place on the 27th August and 2nd September, 2010 respectively were not supported by any provision in the constitution of the ANPP nor the Electoral Act as amended in 2010.
The commission said the two transition committees set up by both factions remained null and void, maintaining that it would deal strictly with the National Convention Planning Committee “until a new National Executive Committee is validly constituted”.
At a press conference to harmonise the positions of the two factions, Chairman of the convention committee and Governor of Yobe State, Ibrahim Gaidam, stated that both warring factions have all agreed to work together for the interest of the party.
He added that the suspension of the Sen. Muhammed Muhammed-led faction taken by the former National Chairman of the party, Chief Edwin Ume-Ezeoke, has been set aside, saying that they are now welcome back as bona fide members of the party.
Though INEC’s letter did not state categorically which of the convention committees it would recognise, the governor while presenting the position of the commission adopted the convention committee set by the Ume-Ezeoke’s faction with Chris Amah as the Secretary.
Meanwhile, Gaidam’s committee tentatively shifted the day of the convention by one day.
THISDAY checks revealed that the shift in the date from September 17-18 to 18-19 may not be unconnected with the decision of President Jonathan to declare tomorrow at the Eagle Square, the same venue ANPP intended to use for its national convention.
The meeting was attended by Borno State Governor, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, Senator Kabir Gaya, Alhaji Gambo Maigaji, former Governors, John Odigie Oyegun, Audu Abubakar and Ahmed Yerima. Also in attendance were Prince Ebuta Ayuk, former Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, Hassan Hadeja, former Minister of State, Defence, Alhaji Abdulrahman Adamu among others. Presidential candidate of the party and Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Ibrahim Shekarau, was absent at the meeting.
In the meantime, among those expected to receive Atiku’s letters are Vice-President Namadi Sambo, Senate President David Mark and Speaker of the House of Representatives Dimeji Bankole.
Other recipients of the letter include governors, deputy governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, state Houses of Assembly, local government council chairmen, PDP chairmen in the Local government councils and PDP state executive officers.
This is in line with the statutory delegate list published by THISDAY newspaper in the last four weeks, which was confirmed by the guidelines released by the PDP on Wednesday.
THISDAY calculates that there would be 3,400 delegates but the PDP is yet to come up with the official list which is not expected to be significantly different.
In the letter, Atiku said that delegates hold the key to the realisation of his vision of a prosperous, secure, peaceful, democratic, caring and confident Nigeria.
“I am seeking the presidency of our great country to chart a new course for our beloved country and lead our people to their manifest destiny,” Atiku wrote.
“We need to create millions of jobs to keep our youth gainfully employed and help to tackle the high level of insecurity in the country. We must invest in education, research and modern technology, and infrastructure so that our productivity can increase significantly. We have to improve on our healthcare delivery so that our people will no longer die needlessly.
“With your support, we will put in place attractive incentives for people to invest in our economy and create well-paying jobs. We will fix our crumbling schools, roads, and hospitals. We will fix the electricity problem by taking advantage of the varying energy resources and needs in different parts of the country.
“We will address desertification, gully erosion and other lingering environmental challenges. We will wage a genuine war on corruption by instituting a better reward and punishment system, ensuring true independence of the anti-corruption agencies and the speedy trial of corruption cases.
“This is the time for an experienced, committed and visionary leader to rescue our country from imminent collapse. I am ready to lead. Together, we can make good things happen for our people and our country,” he said.
He also dismissed the long-held belief that the EFCC investigated the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, for money laundering.
Today, the presidential candidate of the defunct National Republican Convention (NRC) in the June 12, 1993 election, Alhaji Bashir Tofa, will launch his presidential bid on the platform of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP),
And in a novel gesture to woo support for his aspiration, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar yesterday wrote letters to over 3,400 statutory delegates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including President Goodluck Jonathan, urging them to give him their votes in the party’s primary election.
Ribadu promised that Nigeria would become a new country within two years if he is elected. Although, Ribadu said he was yet to decide on which platform he would run, he passionately said he had a dream for a new Nigeria. He said he wants to see a "new thing, a fresh thing" and build a nation out of the country.
The former anti-corruption Czar made these known when he met with journalists in Abuja yesterday, promising a formal declaration later.
“I have a dream of a new Nigeria, a changed Nigeria; I want to see if there is a possibility of opening a new chapter and those who are in charge somehow certainly need to give chance for the country to move forward," he said.
His areas of priority, he said, would be security, fighting corruption, providing electricity, improving education, building hospitals and helping Nigeria become an industrialised nation.
Giving reasons why he is running at the federal level in spite of his little or no experience in politics, Ribadu said: “I have experience in public service. I put 25 years of my life into service to the Federal Government of Nigeria in the executive capacity. After that, of course, I served outside Nigeria, I worked and have acquired international experience.
“I had the chance to set up an agency and ran it for five years and I was in the economic team as well as a federal prosecutor, probably more than any other person in that capacity. I was a police officer, a public worker, I put all my life to service in the federal level and it is really natural for you to put all of that into where the experience best fits, yes I will contest for the presidency.”
Asked how he intends to fund his campaign, he explained that contributions from ordinary Nigerians would be used by his team.
Ribadu also denied allegations that he mishandled a corruption case against Dame Patience, when her husband, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, was governor of Bayelsa State.
He said that it was propaganda to taint his image and that of Jonathan during the 2007 polls.
Ribadu explained that the EFCC never handled any case against Patience. “The case had to do with a lady and a man who lodged huge sums of money in the bank. The EFCC was alerted by the bank and an investigation was carried out,” he said.
According to him, it was found that they legitimately earned the money through contracts executed in the state. All the reports in the media were lies, he insisted.
“For instance, it was initially reported that N70 million was lodged into the bank. Later, it was reported that the money ran into millions of dollars. Such was the extent of the lies,” he said, maintaining: “We never handled a case against Patience Jonathan.”
Meanwhile, Tofa is set to declare his presidential ambition on the platform of ANPP today in Abuja.
The declaration which is billed to take place at Chelsea Hotel is expected to hold in the evening
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) yesterday nullified the positions of the two factions of the ANPP who have been fighting over the control of the party.
INEC, in a letter dated 15th September, 2010 and addressed to the Chairman of the convention committee, said the resolutions of the two factions of the party which took place on the 27th August and 2nd September, 2010 respectively were not supported by any provision in the constitution of the ANPP nor the Electoral Act as amended in 2010.
The commission said the two transition committees set up by both factions remained null and void, maintaining that it would deal strictly with the National Convention Planning Committee “until a new National Executive Committee is validly constituted”.
At a press conference to harmonise the positions of the two factions, Chairman of the convention committee and Governor of Yobe State, Ibrahim Gaidam, stated that both warring factions have all agreed to work together for the interest of the party.
He added that the suspension of the Sen. Muhammed Muhammed-led faction taken by the former National Chairman of the party, Chief Edwin Ume-Ezeoke, has been set aside, saying that they are now welcome back as bona fide members of the party.
Though INEC’s letter did not state categorically which of the convention committees it would recognise, the governor while presenting the position of the commission adopted the convention committee set by the Ume-Ezeoke’s faction with Chris Amah as the Secretary.
Meanwhile, Gaidam’s committee tentatively shifted the day of the convention by one day.
THISDAY checks revealed that the shift in the date from September 17-18 to 18-19 may not be unconnected with the decision of President Jonathan to declare tomorrow at the Eagle Square, the same venue ANPP intended to use for its national convention.
The meeting was attended by Borno State Governor, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff, Senator Kabir Gaya, Alhaji Gambo Maigaji, former Governors, John Odigie Oyegun, Audu Abubakar and Ahmed Yerima. Also in attendance were Prince Ebuta Ayuk, former Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, Hassan Hadeja, former Minister of State, Defence, Alhaji Abdulrahman Adamu among others. Presidential candidate of the party and Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Ibrahim Shekarau, was absent at the meeting.
In the meantime, among those expected to receive Atiku’s letters are Vice-President Namadi Sambo, Senate President David Mark and Speaker of the House of Representatives Dimeji Bankole.
Other recipients of the letter include governors, deputy governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, state Houses of Assembly, local government council chairmen, PDP chairmen in the Local government councils and PDP state executive officers.
This is in line with the statutory delegate list published by THISDAY newspaper in the last four weeks, which was confirmed by the guidelines released by the PDP on Wednesday.
THISDAY calculates that there would be 3,400 delegates but the PDP is yet to come up with the official list which is not expected to be significantly different.
In the letter, Atiku said that delegates hold the key to the realisation of his vision of a prosperous, secure, peaceful, democratic, caring and confident Nigeria.
“I am seeking the presidency of our great country to chart a new course for our beloved country and lead our people to their manifest destiny,” Atiku wrote.
“We need to create millions of jobs to keep our youth gainfully employed and help to tackle the high level of insecurity in the country. We must invest in education, research and modern technology, and infrastructure so that our productivity can increase significantly. We have to improve on our healthcare delivery so that our people will no longer die needlessly.
“With your support, we will put in place attractive incentives for people to invest in our economy and create well-paying jobs. We will fix our crumbling schools, roads, and hospitals. We will fix the electricity problem by taking advantage of the varying energy resources and needs in different parts of the country.
“We will address desertification, gully erosion and other lingering environmental challenges. We will wage a genuine war on corruption by instituting a better reward and punishment system, ensuring true independence of the anti-corruption agencies and the speedy trial of corruption cases.
“This is the time for an experienced, committed and visionary leader to rescue our country from imminent collapse. I am ready to lead. Together, we can make good things happen for our people and our country,” he said.
Tuesday, 14 September 2010
Procter and Gamble Nigeria is recruiting for Media Purchases Manager, West Africa Read more: http://ngcareers.com/2010/09/procter-and-gamble-nigeria-
Job Ref: PUR00000694
Description
Media Purchases’ Manager Job Description :
Overall responsibility:
· The media Purchases’ manager is responsible for all media sourcing done on behalf of the MDO, either through direct negotiations with media suppliers or via managing the agency which negotiates on behalf of P&G.
· He/she will ensure the MDO sourcing strategy meets the MDO business needs as outlined by media operations.
· He/she will be responsible for compliance to purchases’ stewardship processes.
Key expectations:
1- Knowledge of the MDO business needs:
· Ensure via close collaboration with media operations team a deep understanding of the MDO business need.
· Ensure alignment of Media operations on local sourcing strategy
2- Sourcing of the MDO Media business needs (from media suppliers and media agencies):
· He/she will develop/update the local -media sourcing strategy, linked to the global media sourcing strategy and leveraging other local MDOs’ -media sourcing strategies for similar markets.
· He/she will lead the negotiations with media providers and agencies either directly or with the support of the buying AOR
3. Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) strategies:
· He/she will be responsible to develop SRM strategies for key local suppliers (where appropriate) and to leverage local SRM strategies for global/regional vendors (media suppliers and/or agencies). This includes: sourcing the media agencies, leading the annual evaluation process for media agencies.
4- Reporting:
· He/she will be responsible for on going reporting of negotiation results to both media Purchases’ management and local media operation team.
· He/she will be responsible for quarterly reporting of media cost development and value creation (hard savings and cost avoidance) as well as updating the cost savings’ tracking systems (CSTS or other).
· He/she will also share on quarterly basis information on development of local media market (evolution of investment; market cost, investments from our competitors, plus any relevant industry news). Note for the biggest countries (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Poland and AP in EMEA), the sourcing manager will also provide a brief update on a monthly basis.
5- Stewardship compliance:
· He/she will ensure full compliance with purchases’ stewardship policies (as described in sourcing CSA), including writing business allocation recommendations for all deals above $100M, implementing contracts in due time with the right approvals, correct tracking of rebates, parked credits, …etc
· Complete media sourcing CSA (due every year)
6- Collaboration with the regional media sourcing and Brand Building team:
· He/she will contribute to the regional media sourcing team by attending regular calls and attending 2 face to face meetings per year in order to drive sharing and reapplication.
· He/she will also participate in key BBP (brand Building Purchases) team events/calls.
· Pending capacity, He/she is e expected to actively lead/contribute to the regional/global Media sourcing strategy action plans and projects, either in BBP or media related
· At an MDO level he/she will link to other BBP members to drive scale wherever appropriate. This should also enable a integrated BBP engagement with the local stakeholders (ie. Brand operations, marketing, General Manager…)
Qualifications
Minimum Qualification of a Bachelors’ degree or equivalent with good academic results.
Fluent written and oral French is a MUST
Good Written and Oral English Skills
Proven Demonstration of Leadership and Analytical Skills.
Job: Purchasing
Primary Location: Lagos
Schedule: Full-time
Job Type: Standard
APPLY ONLINE
Read more: http://ngcareers.com/2010/09/procter-and-gamble-nigeria-jobs-media-purchases-manager/#ixzz0zYWRh68q
Description
Media Purchases’ Manager Job Description :
Overall responsibility:
· The media Purchases’ manager is responsible for all media sourcing done on behalf of the MDO, either through direct negotiations with media suppliers or via managing the agency which negotiates on behalf of P&G.
· He/she will ensure the MDO sourcing strategy meets the MDO business needs as outlined by media operations.
· He/she will be responsible for compliance to purchases’ stewardship processes.
Key expectations:
1- Knowledge of the MDO business needs:
· Ensure via close collaboration with media operations team a deep understanding of the MDO business need.
· Ensure alignment of Media operations on local sourcing strategy
2- Sourcing of the MDO Media business needs (from media suppliers and media agencies):
· He/she will develop/update the local -media sourcing strategy, linked to the global media sourcing strategy and leveraging other local MDOs’ -media sourcing strategies for similar markets.
· He/she will lead the negotiations with media providers and agencies either directly or with the support of the buying AOR
3. Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) strategies:
· He/she will be responsible to develop SRM strategies for key local suppliers (where appropriate) and to leverage local SRM strategies for global/regional vendors (media suppliers and/or agencies). This includes: sourcing the media agencies, leading the annual evaluation process for media agencies.
4- Reporting:
· He/she will be responsible for on going reporting of negotiation results to both media Purchases’ management and local media operation team.
· He/she will be responsible for quarterly reporting of media cost development and value creation (hard savings and cost avoidance) as well as updating the cost savings’ tracking systems (CSTS or other).
· He/she will also share on quarterly basis information on development of local media market (evolution of investment; market cost, investments from our competitors, plus any relevant industry news). Note for the biggest countries (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Poland and AP in EMEA), the sourcing manager will also provide a brief update on a monthly basis.
5- Stewardship compliance:
· He/she will ensure full compliance with purchases’ stewardship policies (as described in sourcing CSA), including writing business allocation recommendations for all deals above $100M, implementing contracts in due time with the right approvals, correct tracking of rebates, parked credits, …etc
· Complete media sourcing CSA (due every year)
6- Collaboration with the regional media sourcing and Brand Building team:
· He/she will contribute to the regional media sourcing team by attending regular calls and attending 2 face to face meetings per year in order to drive sharing and reapplication.
· He/she will also participate in key BBP (brand Building Purchases) team events/calls.
· Pending capacity, He/she is e expected to actively lead/contribute to the regional/global Media sourcing strategy action plans and projects, either in BBP or media related
· At an MDO level he/she will link to other BBP members to drive scale wherever appropriate. This should also enable a integrated BBP engagement with the local stakeholders (ie. Brand operations, marketing, General Manager…)
Qualifications
Minimum Qualification of a Bachelors’ degree or equivalent with good academic results.
Fluent written and oral French is a MUST
Good Written and Oral English Skills
Proven Demonstration of Leadership and Analytical Skills.
Job: Purchasing
Primary Location: Lagos
Schedule: Full-time
Job Type: Standard
APPLY ONLINE
Read more: http://ngcareers.com/2010/09/procter-and-gamble-nigeria-jobs-media-purchases-manager/#ixzz0zYWRh68q
Procter and Gamble Nigeria is recruiting for Media Purchases Manager, West Africa Read more: http://ngcareers.com/2010/09/procter-and-gamble-nigeria-
Job Ref: PUR00000694
Description
Media Purchases’ Manager Job Description :
Overall responsibility:
· The media Purchases’ manager is responsible for all media sourcing done on behalf of the MDO, either through direct negotiations with media suppliers or via managing the agency which negotiates on behalf of P&G.
· He/she will ensure the MDO sourcing strategy meets the MDO business needs as outlined by media operations.
· He/she will be responsible for compliance to purchases’ stewardship processes.
Key expectations:
1- Knowledge of the MDO business needs:
· Ensure via close collaboration with media operations team a deep understanding of the MDO business need.
· Ensure alignment of Media operations on local sourcing strategy
2- Sourcing of the MDO Media business needs (from media suppliers and media agencies):
· He/she will develop/update the local -media sourcing strategy, linked to the global media sourcing strategy and leveraging other local MDOs’ -media sourcing strategies for similar markets.
· He/she will lead the negotiations with media providers and agencies either directly or with the support of the buying AOR
3. Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) strategies:
· He/she will be responsible to develop SRM strategies for key local suppliers (where appropriate) and to leverage local SRM strategies for global/regional vendors (media suppliers and/or agencies). This includes: sourcing the media agencies, leading the annual evaluation process for media agencies.
4- Reporting:
· He/she will be responsible for on going reporting of negotiation results to both media Purchases’ management and local media operation team.
· He/she will be responsible for quarterly reporting of media cost development and value creation (hard savings and cost avoidance) as well as updating the cost savings’ tracking systems (CSTS or other).
· He/she will also share on quarterly basis information on development of local media market (evolution of investment; market cost, investments from our competitors, plus any relevant industry news). Note for the biggest countries (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Poland and AP in EMEA), the sourcing manager will also provide a brief update on a monthly basis.
5- Stewardship compliance:
· He/she will ensure full compliance with purchases’ stewardship policies (as described in sourcing CSA), including writing business allocation recommendations for all deals above $100M, implementing contracts in due time with the right approvals, correct tracking of rebates, parked credits, …etc
· Complete media sourcing CSA (due every year)
6- Collaboration with the regional media sourcing and Brand Building team:
· He/she will contribute to the regional media sourcing team by attending regular calls and attending 2 face to face meetings per year in order to drive sharing and reapplication.
· He/she will also participate in key BBP (brand Building Purchases) team events/calls.
· Pending capacity, He/she is e expected to actively lead/contribute to the regional/global Media sourcing strategy action plans and projects, either in BBP or media related
· At an MDO level he/she will link to other BBP members to drive scale wherever appropriate. This should also enable a integrated BBP engagement with the local stakeholders (ie. Brand operations, marketing, General Manager…)
Qualifications
Minimum Qualification of a Bachelors’ degree or equivalent with good academic results.
Fluent written and oral French is a MUST
Good Written and Oral English Skills
Proven Demonstration of Leadership and Analytical Skills.
Job: Purchasing
Primary Location: Lagos
Schedule: Full-time
Job Type: Standard
APPLY ONLINE
Read more: http://ngcareers.com/2010/09/procter-and-gamble-nigeria-jobs-media-purchases-manager/#ixzz0zYWRh68q
Description
Media Purchases’ Manager Job Description :
Overall responsibility:
· The media Purchases’ manager is responsible for all media sourcing done on behalf of the MDO, either through direct negotiations with media suppliers or via managing the agency which negotiates on behalf of P&G.
· He/she will ensure the MDO sourcing strategy meets the MDO business needs as outlined by media operations.
· He/she will be responsible for compliance to purchases’ stewardship processes.
Key expectations:
1- Knowledge of the MDO business needs:
· Ensure via close collaboration with media operations team a deep understanding of the MDO business need.
· Ensure alignment of Media operations on local sourcing strategy
2- Sourcing of the MDO Media business needs (from media suppliers and media agencies):
· He/she will develop/update the local -media sourcing strategy, linked to the global media sourcing strategy and leveraging other local MDOs’ -media sourcing strategies for similar markets.
· He/she will lead the negotiations with media providers and agencies either directly or with the support of the buying AOR
3. Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) strategies:
· He/she will be responsible to develop SRM strategies for key local suppliers (where appropriate) and to leverage local SRM strategies for global/regional vendors (media suppliers and/or agencies). This includes: sourcing the media agencies, leading the annual evaluation process for media agencies.
4- Reporting:
· He/she will be responsible for on going reporting of negotiation results to both media Purchases’ management and local media operation team.
· He/she will be responsible for quarterly reporting of media cost development and value creation (hard savings and cost avoidance) as well as updating the cost savings’ tracking systems (CSTS or other).
· He/she will also share on quarterly basis information on development of local media market (evolution of investment; market cost, investments from our competitors, plus any relevant industry news). Note for the biggest countries (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Poland and AP in EMEA), the sourcing manager will also provide a brief update on a monthly basis.
5- Stewardship compliance:
· He/she will ensure full compliance with purchases’ stewardship policies (as described in sourcing CSA), including writing business allocation recommendations for all deals above $100M, implementing contracts in due time with the right approvals, correct tracking of rebates, parked credits, …etc
· Complete media sourcing CSA (due every year)
6- Collaboration with the regional media sourcing and Brand Building team:
· He/she will contribute to the regional media sourcing team by attending regular calls and attending 2 face to face meetings per year in order to drive sharing and reapplication.
· He/she will also participate in key BBP (brand Building Purchases) team events/calls.
· Pending capacity, He/she is e expected to actively lead/contribute to the regional/global Media sourcing strategy action plans and projects, either in BBP or media related
· At an MDO level he/she will link to other BBP members to drive scale wherever appropriate. This should also enable a integrated BBP engagement with the local stakeholders (ie. Brand operations, marketing, General Manager…)
Qualifications
Minimum Qualification of a Bachelors’ degree or equivalent with good academic results.
Fluent written and oral French is a MUST
Good Written and Oral English Skills
Proven Demonstration of Leadership and Analytical Skills.
Job: Purchasing
Primary Location: Lagos
Schedule: Full-time
Job Type: Standard
APPLY ONLINE
Read more: http://ngcareers.com/2010/09/procter-and-gamble-nigeria-jobs-media-purchases-manager/#ixzz0zYWRh68q
First Bank of Nigeria Plc Recruiting Graduates
irst Bank of Nigeria Plc is one of the foremost/leading financial in Nigeria and Africa.
Are you interested in a productive and deeply rewarding banking career at FirstBank, one of Nigeria’s most diversified and leading financial services institution? If your answer is yes, we welcome you to this graduate recruitment exercise and urge you to apply for a position within the Bank.
With our deep commitment to excellent customer service, FirstBank is currently restructuring to emerge as the leading financial services group in sub-Saharan Africa.
As part of this process, FirstBank seeks intelligent, creative and dynamic persons who are willing to succeed through professionalism, smart work and honesty to take up challenging positions within the Bank.
Requirements:
Maximum Age: 27 years by October 31st 2010
Academic Qualification:
Bachelors Degree( 2nd Class Lower )
HND( Upper Credit )
Year of Graduation: not earlier than 2007
Nysc Certificate: must be in hand
Other Information:
Please note that only suitable applicants who provide all the required information will be contacted.
You will be scheduled for the assessment based on your state of residence.
Application Deadline: 15th September 2010
Are you interested in a productive and deeply rewarding banking career at FirstBank, one of Nigeria’s most diversified and leading financial services institution? If your answer is yes, we welcome you to this graduate recruitment exercise and urge you to apply for a position within the Bank.
With our deep commitment to excellent customer service, FirstBank is currently restructuring to emerge as the leading financial services group in sub-Saharan Africa.
As part of this process, FirstBank seeks intelligent, creative and dynamic persons who are willing to succeed through professionalism, smart work and honesty to take up challenging positions within the Bank.
Requirements:
Maximum Age: 27 years by October 31st 2010
Academic Qualification:
Bachelors Degree( 2nd Class Lower )
HND( Upper Credit )
Year of Graduation: not earlier than 2007
Nysc Certificate: must be in hand
Other Information:
Please note that only suitable applicants who provide all the required information will be contacted.
You will be scheduled for the assessment based on your state of residence.
Application Deadline: 15th September 2010
Military Pledges Support for 2011 Polls •As service chiefs hand over
The military yesterday renewed its commitment to the sustenance of democratic rule and pledged to support Federal Government’s determination to conduct to a free and fair election in 2011.
The pledge came as the former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Paul Dike, formally handed over to his successor, Air Marshal Oluseyin Pentinrin, who in turn handed over to the new Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Dikko Umar.
Speaking at the handing over ceremony, the new service chiefs, who spoke separately, said the success of the country’s democracy would be determined by the military’s dedication to duty, discipline and subordination to democratic rule and pledged to support government in its transition programme.
Dike, who said he was handing over to Pentinrin, a second time, the first while moving up as Chief of Defence Staff when Pentinrin took over as Chief of Air Staff two years ago and the second one being his handover to him as the new Chief of Defence Staff.
He thanked President Jonathan for giving him the opportunity to serve and expressed confidence in Pentinrin’s ability to take the armed forces to greater heights.
In his remarks, Pentinrin thanked President Jonathan for the opportunity given him to serve as the new Chief of Defence Staff. He said he would continue the good work started by Air Chiefa Marshal Dike.
He stated that his administration would adopt the team spirit in taking the armed forces to greater heights.
Speaking while handing over to his successor at the Airforce, Pentinrin listed some of his achievements to include budgeting, welfare, training and establishment of a company for the force among others and hoped that his successor would continue with the running programmes.
Speaking at the occasion, the new Airforce boss promised to continue with Pentinrin’s programmes whom he said was “an achiever per excellence” even as he said there might be slight adjustments if the need arose.
He pledged the loyalty of the military and the airforce in march to sustain democratic rule.
The pledge came as the former Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Paul Dike, formally handed over to his successor, Air Marshal Oluseyin Pentinrin, who in turn handed over to the new Chief of the Air Staff, Air Vice Marshal Mohammed Dikko Umar.
Speaking at the handing over ceremony, the new service chiefs, who spoke separately, said the success of the country’s democracy would be determined by the military’s dedication to duty, discipline and subordination to democratic rule and pledged to support government in its transition programme.
Dike, who said he was handing over to Pentinrin, a second time, the first while moving up as Chief of Defence Staff when Pentinrin took over as Chief of Air Staff two years ago and the second one being his handover to him as the new Chief of Defence Staff.
He thanked President Jonathan for giving him the opportunity to serve and expressed confidence in Pentinrin’s ability to take the armed forces to greater heights.
In his remarks, Pentinrin thanked President Jonathan for the opportunity given him to serve as the new Chief of Defence Staff. He said he would continue the good work started by Air Chiefa Marshal Dike.
He stated that his administration would adopt the team spirit in taking the armed forces to greater heights.
Speaking while handing over to his successor at the Airforce, Pentinrin listed some of his achievements to include budgeting, welfare, training and establishment of a company for the force among others and hoped that his successor would continue with the running programmes.
Speaking at the occasion, the new Airforce boss promised to continue with Pentinrin’s programmes whom he said was “an achiever per excellence” even as he said there might be slight adjustments if the need arose.
He pledged the loyalty of the military and the airforce in march to sustain democratic rule.
Voter Registration: INEC Targets UN System•How Haier, Zinox, Avant made shortlist •BPP decides today, FEC next week
Fresh facts have emerged on how China-based computer manufacturer, Haier, US-based Avant Technology and Nigerian-owned Zinox Computers were shortlisted for the supply of 132,000 units of Direct Digital Data Capture (DDC) machines for the voter registration.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has sent requests for quotations (RFQs) to the three shortlisted firms, and THISDAY can confirm that the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), otherwise known as the Due Process Office, will take a final decision on the award of the contracts today.
The decision will be communicated to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) for onward transmission to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval at next week’s council meeting.
INEC, which had earlier sent an RFQ to Lenovo, a Beijing, China-based original equipment manufacturer, recommended Haier for the supply of the bulk of the equipment based on the company’s track record with the United Nations.
THISDAY learnt that INEC had made contact with foreign embassies in Nigeria seeking advice on how to procure the equipment in record time because of the urgency associated with the preparations for the 2011 general election.
INEC got in touch with the UN procurement system because of the organisation’s global experience in conducting elections, especially in difficult circumstances.
Haier, one of China’s Top 100 IT companies, specialises in technology research, manufacture industry, trading and financial services. Its Thermocool refrigerators and freezers are produced under licence in Nigeria by PZ.
The track record of Haier is said to have impressed INEC, which also discovered that the Chinese company has the capacity to produce all the DDC machines it requires for voter registration.
INEC is said to have been swayed by the ability of the company to meet the deadline because it could be too risky to entrust the project to a contractor who may not be able to deliver in record time.
However, in asking Haier to quote for 90,000 units and Avant 20,000 units, INEC also asked Zinox to quote for 22,000 units because of the agitation for local content in the contracts.
Although only 120,000 units would be needed for the registration, INEC has made plans for 132,000 in the event of breakdowns and redundancy.
In another development, INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega yesterday raised hopes that the commission could use the Modified Open Ballot System in the conduct of the 2011 general election.
However, he said that the extant law in the statute book is the Open Secret Ballot System.
Jega, who spoke when a delegation of the Save Nigeria Group (SNG) led by Pastor Tunde Bakare visited him, said: “The legal framework on the mode of election currently provided for is what is called the open secret ballot system. You are calling for a Modified Open Ballot System; we go and look at it.
“If there is call for it within the legal framework, and we do the cost benefit analysis and we weigh all the pros and cons and it turns out to be the best, certainly, we will give it the consideration it deserves.”
MOBS allows accreditation of voters and voting to take place at the same time nationwide, with the votes counted and scores announced on the spot.
But the current system allows voters to vote at various times before 1pm and they are to disperse immediately after voting without waiting for the announcement of the results.
On the funding of election monitors, Jega said that the commission would no longer fund the activities of the non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that monitor the elections.
He promised to help the election monitors in areas of logistics, but categorically said: “Don’t expect INEC to pay your bills, we cannot foot their bills.”
Jega said a mechanism had been put in place to check the activities of the staff of the commission that are corrupt.
According to him, there are in-built checks and balances, and any member of staff caught in the act would “face the music”.
He said that the era of the Resident Electoral Commissioners and Electoral Officers of the commission conniving is a thing of the past.
Earlier, Bakare had brought to the attention of the commission a six-point case to be addressed to checkmate rigging.
The six issues are: the Modified Open Ballot System, connivance of election monitors and observers with the state governments to rig the election, management of security personnel during election, connivance of resident electoral commissioners and electoral officers to rig election.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has sent requests for quotations (RFQs) to the three shortlisted firms, and THISDAY can confirm that the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP), otherwise known as the Due Process Office, will take a final decision on the award of the contracts today.
The decision will be communicated to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) for onward transmission to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approval at next week’s council meeting.
INEC, which had earlier sent an RFQ to Lenovo, a Beijing, China-based original equipment manufacturer, recommended Haier for the supply of the bulk of the equipment based on the company’s track record with the United Nations.
THISDAY learnt that INEC had made contact with foreign embassies in Nigeria seeking advice on how to procure the equipment in record time because of the urgency associated with the preparations for the 2011 general election.
INEC got in touch with the UN procurement system because of the organisation’s global experience in conducting elections, especially in difficult circumstances.
Haier, one of China’s Top 100 IT companies, specialises in technology research, manufacture industry, trading and financial services. Its Thermocool refrigerators and freezers are produced under licence in Nigeria by PZ.
The track record of Haier is said to have impressed INEC, which also discovered that the Chinese company has the capacity to produce all the DDC machines it requires for voter registration.
INEC is said to have been swayed by the ability of the company to meet the deadline because it could be too risky to entrust the project to a contractor who may not be able to deliver in record time.
However, in asking Haier to quote for 90,000 units and Avant 20,000 units, INEC also asked Zinox to quote for 22,000 units because of the agitation for local content in the contracts.
Although only 120,000 units would be needed for the registration, INEC has made plans for 132,000 in the event of breakdowns and redundancy.
In another development, INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega yesterday raised hopes that the commission could use the Modified Open Ballot System in the conduct of the 2011 general election.
However, he said that the extant law in the statute book is the Open Secret Ballot System.
Jega, who spoke when a delegation of the Save Nigeria Group (SNG) led by Pastor Tunde Bakare visited him, said: “The legal framework on the mode of election currently provided for is what is called the open secret ballot system. You are calling for a Modified Open Ballot System; we go and look at it.
“If there is call for it within the legal framework, and we do the cost benefit analysis and we weigh all the pros and cons and it turns out to be the best, certainly, we will give it the consideration it deserves.”
MOBS allows accreditation of voters and voting to take place at the same time nationwide, with the votes counted and scores announced on the spot.
But the current system allows voters to vote at various times before 1pm and they are to disperse immediately after voting without waiting for the announcement of the results.
On the funding of election monitors, Jega said that the commission would no longer fund the activities of the non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that monitor the elections.
He promised to help the election monitors in areas of logistics, but categorically said: “Don’t expect INEC to pay your bills, we cannot foot their bills.”
Jega said a mechanism had been put in place to check the activities of the staff of the commission that are corrupt.
According to him, there are in-built checks and balances, and any member of staff caught in the act would “face the music”.
He said that the era of the Resident Electoral Commissioners and Electoral Officers of the commission conniving is a thing of the past.
Earlier, Bakare had brought to the attention of the commission a six-point case to be addressed to checkmate rigging.
The six issues are: the Modified Open Ballot System, connivance of election monitors and observers with the state governments to rig the election, management of security personnel during election, connivance of resident electoral commissioners and electoral officers to rig election.
Contract Row Threatens 1,000mw Alaoji Power Plant
Nigeria’s power sector roadmap, a comprehensive plan to ensure adequacy of electricity supply in the country recently unveiled by President Goodluck Jonathan, has come under a major threat, THISDAY investigation has revealed.
An unnamed petitioner is said to have pointed out irregularities in the gas contract award for the 1,074 megawatts Alaoji Power Station, the biggest of the country’s gas fired power plant under the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) which is expected to contribute significantly to the roadmap.
The contract for the supply of gas to the power station was tagged “emergency” to avoid the scrutiny of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) and allegedly awarded under questionable circumstances to a contractor with no track record of building gas pipeline.
The scope of the project includes construction of 18-inch x 2.5kilometre gas pipeline system with associated facilities from intermediate pigging station to Alaoji metering station; construction of 18-inch x 1.2kilometre gas pipeline system with associated facilities from Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Imo River station to Nigerian Gas Company (NGC), Owaza Compressor Station; and Hot Tap existing Imo River-Aba gas pipeline and SPDC Imo River flow station tie in points.
It also includes testing and commissioning the early gas supply system; relocation of 30 million standard cubic feet per day capacity early gas delivery facility from Omotosho to Alaoji Metering Station site; review of an existing design already carried out and procurement, supply and transportation to site, all materials and equipment for the construction, testing and commissioning of the pipeline system.
However, all the materials, including line pipes are already procured by the NGC, a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), and are to be issued free to the contractor.
A source at the NNPC, who was aware of the deal, told THISDAY at the weekend that a top Group Executive Director (GED) of the corporation had deceived the NNPC Group Executive Council (GEC) to invite a sole bidder for the project instead of calling for an open bid from qualified indigenous contractors, thereby subverting public procurement process.
The GED, according to the source, also allegedly misinformed the NNPC GEC to approve the contract for the sole bidder at its meeting of June 18, 2010, at the cost of $8.4 million, with a provisional sum of $807,102.71 plus N5 million.
It was alleged that this cost, which covers only construction and commissioning, was fraudulent as the total project, including detailed engineering design and supply of the line pipes and metering station, was initially meant to cost $30 million, while construction and commissioning was meant to cost about $4 million.
“How come this project is awarded at $8,400,000.00 for only construction and commissioning, when all the materials are to be supplied by the NGC?” queried an NNPC source, who was familiar with the deal.
The contract, it was alleged, did not pass through due process as the top GED was said to have tagged it “emergency gas supply to PHCN power plant at Alaoji”, to ensure that it was not subjected to due process.
Director-General of BPP, Mr. Emeka Eze confirmed to THISDAY that the contract was not in the data base of the agency, which was a contravention of relevant regulations that stipulate that any contract that is up to N1 billion must pass through BPP for due process certificate.
“Any contract that is up to N1 billion is supposed to pass through us. But this one did not pass through us; it is not in our data base. So, I would not know if the contract has been awarded,” he said.
On the alleged use of the word “emergency” to subvert due process, Eze expressed doubts if the project qualifies for emergency.
“It is actually in the case of emergency that someone can award contract before coming to us for due process certificate. For instance, if a bridge collapses or heavy rainfall cuts a road into two, you can find someone to fix it quickly and later come for due process certificate. But I don’t think what they have done qualifies for emergency,” he added.
It was also alleged that the contractor has no track record of building gas pipeline as the current project it is handling for an unnamed oil company is crude oil pipeline and not gas pipeline – which requires a different technology.
According to investigation, the NGC on a routine check with the oil company got a damming report on how the contractor had delayed the execution of the crude oil pipeline project, but the top GED at NNPC, who was bent on awarding the NGC’s gas pipeline contract to the same contractor, directed the NGC to “step it down” – that is, to bury its findings.
It is feared that the Alaoji gas pipeline contract, which is expected to be completed within three months, is a clear attempt to derail President Jonathan’s efforts to improve power supply as it will be delayed the same way as the crude oil pipeline contract being executed by the same contractor.
“The only reason the contractor was singled out for an arranged contract award is to ensure that there is no completion that will bring value to NNPC,” an insider said.
“It is wrong to ask for only one contractor to submit a bid of this type. It would have taken the same time to evaluate bids of three contractors that are known to NGC to be fully qualified for this scope of work. NGC has a data base of good contractors to get the best value for their money. There are clearly more qualified indigenous contractors that are available and if included, would have brought the required competition and value to NNPC,” he added.
Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on Power (PTFP), Professor Barth Nnaji however told THISDAY that his task force does not get involved in such contracts.
“Believe me, I don’t know anything about the contract. We leave the award of such contracts to the NNPC and we expect them to do proper due diligence. It is only when there is problem that we begin to look into such contracts,” he said.
Nnaji further disclosed that the first phase of Alaoji Power Station would come on stream by the first quarter of 2011.
Another NNPC source, who called for the re-award of the contract to a competent contractor, argued that the project is technically flawed, stressing that planning an 18-inch gas supply to come off from a 12-inch Imo River-Aba gas pipeline does not make technical sense.
“An 18-inch line is being built to take gas from the existing 12-inch line. The 12-inch line is a Low Pressure (LP) line built in the 1960s to deliver gas to Aba industries – Aba Textile Mills; Nigerian Breweries; and International Equitable Industries. This line is an LP and is very old with suspect integrity. The power station requires higher pressure to operate and the quantity of gas from the old line will not suffice for this requirement,” the official said.
Meanwhile, the NNPC has stated that due process was undertaken in the award of the pipeline power plant contract.
Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division of the Corporation, Dr. Levi Ajuonuma, alleged that contrary to an anonymous petition being circulated to media houses by a disgruntled contractor, the management of the corporation took all relevant measures in ensuring that transparency ensued all through the award process.
He said the contract was revoked after the said contractor failed to deliver on the project six years after the award.
"It is common knowledge that the administration of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan attaches huge importance to the issue of power supply to Nigerians. Thus after waiting in vain for six years for the contractor to perform, NNPC Acting on the instruction of the Presidential Committee on Power Chaired by the Vice President Alhaji Namadi Sambo, was mandated to re-award the contract to a competent contractor under a matter of urgent national importance to a competent contractor that can deliver on time. So tell me what is wrong with that?" Ajuonuma said.
An unnamed petitioner is said to have pointed out irregularities in the gas contract award for the 1,074 megawatts Alaoji Power Station, the biggest of the country’s gas fired power plant under the National Integrated Power Project (NIPP) which is expected to contribute significantly to the roadmap.
The contract for the supply of gas to the power station was tagged “emergency” to avoid the scrutiny of the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) and allegedly awarded under questionable circumstances to a contractor with no track record of building gas pipeline.
The scope of the project includes construction of 18-inch x 2.5kilometre gas pipeline system with associated facilities from intermediate pigging station to Alaoji metering station; construction of 18-inch x 1.2kilometre gas pipeline system with associated facilities from Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) Imo River station to Nigerian Gas Company (NGC), Owaza Compressor Station; and Hot Tap existing Imo River-Aba gas pipeline and SPDC Imo River flow station tie in points.
It also includes testing and commissioning the early gas supply system; relocation of 30 million standard cubic feet per day capacity early gas delivery facility from Omotosho to Alaoji Metering Station site; review of an existing design already carried out and procurement, supply and transportation to site, all materials and equipment for the construction, testing and commissioning of the pipeline system.
However, all the materials, including line pipes are already procured by the NGC, a subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), and are to be issued free to the contractor.
A source at the NNPC, who was aware of the deal, told THISDAY at the weekend that a top Group Executive Director (GED) of the corporation had deceived the NNPC Group Executive Council (GEC) to invite a sole bidder for the project instead of calling for an open bid from qualified indigenous contractors, thereby subverting public procurement process.
The GED, according to the source, also allegedly misinformed the NNPC GEC to approve the contract for the sole bidder at its meeting of June 18, 2010, at the cost of $8.4 million, with a provisional sum of $807,102.71 plus N5 million.
It was alleged that this cost, which covers only construction and commissioning, was fraudulent as the total project, including detailed engineering design and supply of the line pipes and metering station, was initially meant to cost $30 million, while construction and commissioning was meant to cost about $4 million.
“How come this project is awarded at $8,400,000.00 for only construction and commissioning, when all the materials are to be supplied by the NGC?” queried an NNPC source, who was familiar with the deal.
The contract, it was alleged, did not pass through due process as the top GED was said to have tagged it “emergency gas supply to PHCN power plant at Alaoji”, to ensure that it was not subjected to due process.
Director-General of BPP, Mr. Emeka Eze confirmed to THISDAY that the contract was not in the data base of the agency, which was a contravention of relevant regulations that stipulate that any contract that is up to N1 billion must pass through BPP for due process certificate.
“Any contract that is up to N1 billion is supposed to pass through us. But this one did not pass through us; it is not in our data base. So, I would not know if the contract has been awarded,” he said.
On the alleged use of the word “emergency” to subvert due process, Eze expressed doubts if the project qualifies for emergency.
“It is actually in the case of emergency that someone can award contract before coming to us for due process certificate. For instance, if a bridge collapses or heavy rainfall cuts a road into two, you can find someone to fix it quickly and later come for due process certificate. But I don’t think what they have done qualifies for emergency,” he added.
It was also alleged that the contractor has no track record of building gas pipeline as the current project it is handling for an unnamed oil company is crude oil pipeline and not gas pipeline – which requires a different technology.
According to investigation, the NGC on a routine check with the oil company got a damming report on how the contractor had delayed the execution of the crude oil pipeline project, but the top GED at NNPC, who was bent on awarding the NGC’s gas pipeline contract to the same contractor, directed the NGC to “step it down” – that is, to bury its findings.
It is feared that the Alaoji gas pipeline contract, which is expected to be completed within three months, is a clear attempt to derail President Jonathan’s efforts to improve power supply as it will be delayed the same way as the crude oil pipeline contract being executed by the same contractor.
“The only reason the contractor was singled out for an arranged contract award is to ensure that there is no completion that will bring value to NNPC,” an insider said.
“It is wrong to ask for only one contractor to submit a bid of this type. It would have taken the same time to evaluate bids of three contractors that are known to NGC to be fully qualified for this scope of work. NGC has a data base of good contractors to get the best value for their money. There are clearly more qualified indigenous contractors that are available and if included, would have brought the required competition and value to NNPC,” he added.
Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on Power (PTFP), Professor Barth Nnaji however told THISDAY that his task force does not get involved in such contracts.
“Believe me, I don’t know anything about the contract. We leave the award of such contracts to the NNPC and we expect them to do proper due diligence. It is only when there is problem that we begin to look into such contracts,” he said.
Nnaji further disclosed that the first phase of Alaoji Power Station would come on stream by the first quarter of 2011.
Another NNPC source, who called for the re-award of the contract to a competent contractor, argued that the project is technically flawed, stressing that planning an 18-inch gas supply to come off from a 12-inch Imo River-Aba gas pipeline does not make technical sense.
“An 18-inch line is being built to take gas from the existing 12-inch line. The 12-inch line is a Low Pressure (LP) line built in the 1960s to deliver gas to Aba industries – Aba Textile Mills; Nigerian Breweries; and International Equitable Industries. This line is an LP and is very old with suspect integrity. The power station requires higher pressure to operate and the quantity of gas from the old line will not suffice for this requirement,” the official said.
Meanwhile, the NNPC has stated that due process was undertaken in the award of the pipeline power plant contract.
Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division of the Corporation, Dr. Levi Ajuonuma, alleged that contrary to an anonymous petition being circulated to media houses by a disgruntled contractor, the management of the corporation took all relevant measures in ensuring that transparency ensued all through the award process.
He said the contract was revoked after the said contractor failed to deliver on the project six years after the award.
"It is common knowledge that the administration of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan attaches huge importance to the issue of power supply to Nigerians. Thus after waiting in vain for six years for the contractor to perform, NNPC Acting on the instruction of the Presidential Committee on Power Chaired by the Vice President Alhaji Namadi Sambo, was mandated to re-award the contract to a competent contractor under a matter of urgent national importance to a competent contractor that can deliver on time. So tell me what is wrong with that?" Ajuonuma said.
Babangida Picks Odili As Running Mate
ormer military ruler, Ibrahim Babangida, is in advanced talks with Peter Odili, former governor of Rivers State, as he closes in on a running mate for the 2011 presidential elections.
A source within Mr. Babangida's camp said that the choice of Mr. Odili was strongly influenced by Raymond Dokpesi, chairman of DAAR Communications, and director general of Mr. Babangida's presidential campaign. The two men have a history of mutually beneficial dealings. Mr. Dokpesi was the director general of Mr. Odili's campaign when he ran for president in 2007. At the time, Mr. Odili was alleged to have invested N400 million of funds taken from the Rivers State treasury, into Mr. Dokpesi's company.
The EFCC, under Farida Waziri, quizzed Mr. Dokpesi over the money, but no charges were ever filed. According to the source, "Odilli will be groomed as the person that will succeed General Babangida, come 2015."
A Controversial Choice
Mr. Babangida, who is at the centre of several allegations, will be picking an equally controversial character if he settles on Mr. Odili as a running mate. Mr. Odili was elected governor of Rivers State in 1999 and was re-elected in 2003. His tenure was marred by human rights violations, insecurity, and widespread accusations of fraud.
During his governorship, Rivers State was, in theory, one of the wealthiest states in the country owing to its enormous oil revenue, but Mr. Odili instituted relatively few improvements. Instead, the former governor is on record for acquiring a South Africa-based hospital, and two Brazilian jets.
In November 2006, Peter Odili announced that he would run for president in the 2007 election under the ruling PDP. However, a day before the PDP's presidential primaries, Mr. Odili stepped down from the contest, paving the way for fellow governor, Umaru Yar'Adua, to emerge as the party's flag bearer.
Reports say Mr. Odili was forced out of that contest when the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) led by Nuhu Ribadu, released a report implicating him in fraud, mismanagement of state funds, money laundering, and abuse of office.
In February that year, Mr. Odili filed a suit challenging the powers of the EFCC to probe his administration. The court granted him an indefinite injunction stopping any investigations into his finances, describing it as a breach of his civil rights.
The Declaration
It was expected that Mr. Odili would be unveiled at a rally for the official declaration of Mr. Babangida's intention on Wednesday in Abuja.
However, a text sent out by the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP. Rufa'i Ahmed Alkali. inviting all party executives to an emergency meeting on that same day , is raising eyebrows.
The coincidence in the timing is leading to speculation that this may be an attempt to steal the thunder from Mr. Babangida's declaration. As of the time of going to press , we were unable to contact Mr. Babangida to find out if he intends to change his plans. . Text messages to Mr. Alkali seeking clarity on the matter, remained unanswered
A source within Mr. Babangida's camp said that the choice of Mr. Odili was strongly influenced by Raymond Dokpesi, chairman of DAAR Communications, and director general of Mr. Babangida's presidential campaign. The two men have a history of mutually beneficial dealings. Mr. Dokpesi was the director general of Mr. Odili's campaign when he ran for president in 2007. At the time, Mr. Odili was alleged to have invested N400 million of funds taken from the Rivers State treasury, into Mr. Dokpesi's company.
The EFCC, under Farida Waziri, quizzed Mr. Dokpesi over the money, but no charges were ever filed. According to the source, "Odilli will be groomed as the person that will succeed General Babangida, come 2015."
A Controversial Choice
Mr. Babangida, who is at the centre of several allegations, will be picking an equally controversial character if he settles on Mr. Odili as a running mate. Mr. Odili was elected governor of Rivers State in 1999 and was re-elected in 2003. His tenure was marred by human rights violations, insecurity, and widespread accusations of fraud.
During his governorship, Rivers State was, in theory, one of the wealthiest states in the country owing to its enormous oil revenue, but Mr. Odili instituted relatively few improvements. Instead, the former governor is on record for acquiring a South Africa-based hospital, and two Brazilian jets.
In November 2006, Peter Odili announced that he would run for president in the 2007 election under the ruling PDP. However, a day before the PDP's presidential primaries, Mr. Odili stepped down from the contest, paving the way for fellow governor, Umaru Yar'Adua, to emerge as the party's flag bearer.
Reports say Mr. Odili was forced out of that contest when the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) led by Nuhu Ribadu, released a report implicating him in fraud, mismanagement of state funds, money laundering, and abuse of office.
In February that year, Mr. Odili filed a suit challenging the powers of the EFCC to probe his administration. The court granted him an indefinite injunction stopping any investigations into his finances, describing it as a breach of his civil rights.
The Declaration
It was expected that Mr. Odili would be unveiled at a rally for the official declaration of Mr. Babangida's intention on Wednesday in Abuja.
However, a text sent out by the National Publicity Secretary of the PDP. Rufa'i Ahmed Alkali. inviting all party executives to an emergency meeting on that same day , is raising eyebrows.
The coincidence in the timing is leading to speculation that this may be an attempt to steal the thunder from Mr. Babangida's declaration. As of the time of going to press , we were unable to contact Mr. Babangida to find out if he intends to change his plans. . Text messages to Mr. Alkali seeking clarity on the matter, remained unanswered
PDP Meeting Deadlocked over Order of Primaries •To convene emergency NEC tomorrow •Saraki meets Jonathan
fter a six-hour meeting, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday failed to agree on the order of the primaries for the 2011 polls.
THISDAY learnt the party could not come to an agreement specifically on whether the presidential primary should precede the governorship primary election.
Another bone of contention is the sequence of the convention since PDP has already opted to use the staggered presidential primaries on zonal basis to pick its presidential flag bearer.
Following the disagreement, the party has summoned an emergency meeting of its National Executive Committee for tomorrow.
The NEC meeting is expected to resolve the issue around the order of the polls and also approve dates for the various congresses and national convention of the party.
It was learnt that the NWC would continue at its meeting today to fix tentative dates for the various electoral programmes, which will be considered at the NEC meeting.
In the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the presidential election has been fixed for January 22 ahead of the gubernatorial and state house of assembly polls scheduled for January 29.
The parties have between last Saturday, September 11 and October 30 to pick their candidates for the various elective offices.
PDP had been reported earlier to be favourably disposed to conducting the presidential primary before the gubernatorial primary election.
The party stalwarts believed to be sympathetic to the aspiration of President Goodluck Jonathan argue that holding the presidential primary first could play to the advantage of the president as it would avoid a situation where some governors gang up against the president after they had won their own tickets.
The governors are also said to be suspicious that the president may dump them after securing his own ticket first.
In the usual tradition of PDP, presidential primaries usually come last after the gubernatorial and National Assembly primaries had taken place.
In the meantime, Kwara State Governor Bukola Saraki on Sunday informed President Goodluck Jonathan and Vice-President Namadi Sambo about his presidential aspiration and decision to resign as the chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF).
This comes as he officially throws his hat into the ring for the presidential race on Friday in Abuja .
THISDAY gathered that Saraki was at the State House around 5pm on Sunday where he met and briefed President Jonathan of his intention to contest the presidential nomination election of PDP.
The governor also told the President that as a result of his decision to contest for the PDP presidential ticket he would resign as the Chairman of NGF.
Sources said the president did not express surprise over the development.
The president was said to have wished Saraki well and the meeting ended.
Saraki also went to the Akinola Aguda Lodge, the official residence of the Vice-President where he told Sambo of his intention as well.
THISDAY gathered that Saraki will officially declare to contest at the PDP presidential primary on September 17 in Abuja.
Saraki is said to be tipping Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi as his running mate.
Also, the six governors that are coordinating the presidential aspiration of President Jonathan are expected to meet at the residence of the Cross Rivers State Governor Liyel Imoke.
THISDAY gathered that the six governors have appointed Imoke as the chairman of the zonal coordinators for Jonathan’s aspiration.
The meeting, according to a top source, is to map out plans for the eventual declaration of the president.
In another development, officials of the State Security Service (SSS) yesterday visited the campaign office of former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida, as part of the security checks.
Babangida is due to make his official declaration for the PDP presidential race tomorrow, September 15 at the Eagle Square in Abuja.
The Director of Media and Communications for Babangida’s campaign, Prince Kassim Afegbua, confirmed the visit of the SSS officials to the office.
He, however, said the visit was part of security checks for Babangida’s official declaration.
THISDAY learnt the party could not come to an agreement specifically on whether the presidential primary should precede the governorship primary election.
Another bone of contention is the sequence of the convention since PDP has already opted to use the staggered presidential primaries on zonal basis to pick its presidential flag bearer.
Following the disagreement, the party has summoned an emergency meeting of its National Executive Committee for tomorrow.
The NEC meeting is expected to resolve the issue around the order of the polls and also approve dates for the various congresses and national convention of the party.
It was learnt that the NWC would continue at its meeting today to fix tentative dates for the various electoral programmes, which will be considered at the NEC meeting.
In the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the presidential election has been fixed for January 22 ahead of the gubernatorial and state house of assembly polls scheduled for January 29.
The parties have between last Saturday, September 11 and October 30 to pick their candidates for the various elective offices.
PDP had been reported earlier to be favourably disposed to conducting the presidential primary before the gubernatorial primary election.
The party stalwarts believed to be sympathetic to the aspiration of President Goodluck Jonathan argue that holding the presidential primary first could play to the advantage of the president as it would avoid a situation where some governors gang up against the president after they had won their own tickets.
The governors are also said to be suspicious that the president may dump them after securing his own ticket first.
In the usual tradition of PDP, presidential primaries usually come last after the gubernatorial and National Assembly primaries had taken place.
In the meantime, Kwara State Governor Bukola Saraki on Sunday informed President Goodluck Jonathan and Vice-President Namadi Sambo about his presidential aspiration and decision to resign as the chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF).
This comes as he officially throws his hat into the ring for the presidential race on Friday in Abuja .
THISDAY gathered that Saraki was at the State House around 5pm on Sunday where he met and briefed President Jonathan of his intention to contest the presidential nomination election of PDP.
The governor also told the President that as a result of his decision to contest for the PDP presidential ticket he would resign as the Chairman of NGF.
Sources said the president did not express surprise over the development.
The president was said to have wished Saraki well and the meeting ended.
Saraki also went to the Akinola Aguda Lodge, the official residence of the Vice-President where he told Sambo of his intention as well.
THISDAY gathered that Saraki will officially declare to contest at the PDP presidential primary on September 17 in Abuja.
Saraki is said to be tipping Rivers State Governor Chibuike Amaechi as his running mate.
Also, the six governors that are coordinating the presidential aspiration of President Jonathan are expected to meet at the residence of the Cross Rivers State Governor Liyel Imoke.
THISDAY gathered that the six governors have appointed Imoke as the chairman of the zonal coordinators for Jonathan’s aspiration.
The meeting, according to a top source, is to map out plans for the eventual declaration of the president.
In another development, officials of the State Security Service (SSS) yesterday visited the campaign office of former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida, as part of the security checks.
Babangida is due to make his official declaration for the PDP presidential race tomorrow, September 15 at the Eagle Square in Abuja.
The Director of Media and Communications for Babangida’s campaign, Prince Kassim Afegbua, confirmed the visit of the SSS officials to the office.
He, however, said the visit was part of security checks for Babangida’s official declaration.
Thursday, 12 August 2010
Sales Representatives wanted at ITRDN Technologies Ltd
Job Description:
- Responsible for all sales activities in assigned accounts or regions. Manage quality and consistency of product and
service delivery.
- Present and sell company products and services to current and potential clients.
- Prepare action plans and schedules to identify specific targets and to project the number of contacts to be made.
- Follow up on new leads and referrals resulting from field activity.
- Identify sales prospects and contact these and other accounts as assigned.
- Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts.
- Develop and maintain sales materials and current product knowledge.
- Establish and maintain current client and potential client relationships.
- Prepare paperwork to activate and maintain contract services.
- Manage account services through quality checks and other follow-up.
- Identify and resolve client concerns.
Requirements
- OND/HND/B.Sc in relevant course of study
Deadline: 2010-8-31
- Responsible for all sales activities in assigned accounts or regions. Manage quality and consistency of product and
service delivery.
- Present and sell company products and services to current and potential clients.
- Prepare action plans and schedules to identify specific targets and to project the number of contacts to be made.
- Follow up on new leads and referrals resulting from field activity.
- Identify sales prospects and contact these and other accounts as assigned.
- Prepare presentations, proposals and sales contracts.
- Develop and maintain sales materials and current product knowledge.
- Establish and maintain current client and potential client relationships.
- Prepare paperwork to activate and maintain contract services.
- Manage account services through quality checks and other follow-up.
- Identify and resolve client concerns.
Requirements
- OND/HND/B.Sc in relevant course of study
Deadline: 2010-8-31
Sim Card Registration Officers Wanted at a Telecom Company
Atos Origin Ltd is an international telecom outsource service company. We offer world class Network and Customer Service Support for Telecom Operators in Nigeria. Our operations currently spread across Nigeria.
We are recruiting massively for one of the top telecom companies in Nigeria for the following positions.
Job Title: Sim Card Registration Officers
No. of Personnels: Minimum of 40 Candidates in each State of the Federation.
The Role
To effectively and efficiently capture, register, and store the detailed subscribers’ profiles data into the Database using a project software, to meet the NCC specification on the identity verification of all SIM Cards activated.
Requirements/ Experience
- OND/ HND/ Degree qualification in any discipline.
- Fresh/ experienced candidates are required for this position as selected candidates will undergo 2 weeks training.
- A hands-on experience in computer usage is a must.
- Good appreciation and usage of modern project software
- Quick-to-learn and can-do attitude is required.
- Good Interpersonal skills, excellent oral & written communication
- Strong analytical skills.
- Candidate must be able to work with minimal supervision under pressure.
Method of Application
Suitable candidates should apply to below stating their State of interest, in the Cover Letter on or before 24th August, 2010.
Only qualified candidates should apply.
Deadline: 2010-8-24
We are recruiting massively for one of the top telecom companies in Nigeria for the following positions.
Job Title: Sim Card Registration Officers
No. of Personnels: Minimum of 40 Candidates in each State of the Federation.
The Role
To effectively and efficiently capture, register, and store the detailed subscribers’ profiles data into the Database using a project software, to meet the NCC specification on the identity verification of all SIM Cards activated.
Requirements/ Experience
- OND/ HND/ Degree qualification in any discipline.
- Fresh/ experienced candidates are required for this position as selected candidates will undergo 2 weeks training.
- A hands-on experience in computer usage is a must.
- Good appreciation and usage of modern project software
- Quick-to-learn and can-do attitude is required.
- Good Interpersonal skills, excellent oral & written communication
- Strong analytical skills.
- Candidate must be able to work with minimal supervision under pressure.
Method of Application
Suitable candidates should apply to below stating their State of interest, in the Cover Letter on or before 24th August, 2010.
Only qualified candidates should apply.
Deadline: 2010-8-24
Friday, 6 August 2010
A Country Abandoned To Goodluck —Kole Omotoso
We deserve better than mere good luck. After 50 years of existence as a country we should not be dependent on the luck of the gambler, the opportunism of a traveller and the well wishing of a fisherman in an oasis! But Nigeria is in the hands of whatever fate has in store for him/her/it––we must provide all the possibilities of political correctness!
Wishing anyone good luck assumes that that person has what it needs to undertake whatever task the person has been set or has set him/herself. This is the kind of greeting you wish a Mandela as he is sworn in as president of South Africa. He has come to the position taking risks and winning, especially when he decided that as leader of the African National Congress he would go ahead and talk to the enemy since the enemy wished to talk to him and hope that his comrades in the movement would trust him to do the right thing by them. I played the part of Govan Mbeki in the film Mandela and de Klerk and all my lines were questions to Mandela as he went into his talks with the Boers! But he went in and he won. Wishing President Mandela good luck at his inauguration as president of South Africa had a basis in previous tasks undertaken and brought to success.
It is the kind of greeting to give to Barack Obama at his inauguration as president of the United States of America in the light of his epic struggle to win the nomination and then to win the presidency. Whatever trials and tribulations would beset him in the next five years would beset him against the background of identifiable tasks previously achieved.
It is the kind of greeting you give to Usain Bolt as he prepares for another 100 metres dash knowing that he had already set a previous world record doing that dash. But good luck Nigeria? In what context? Wishing Mandela good luck had a context. He worked within an existing institutional infrastructure built we understand for whites only but made to serve every South African citizen. Barack Obama operated within an institutional infrastructure which worked no matter who to work it. Wishing him good luck had a context. Mr. Bolt perhaps spent his youth running away from street bullies, misguided law officers and his irate parents. On what basis can we wish Dr. Jonathan good luck besides simply calling out his first name?
Dr. Jonathan has started on the wrong footing by entertaining the idea of more state creation in Nigeria. If there is anything that is needed in Nigeria it is putting an end to the creation of states which are no more than channels for the distribution of petrol dollars that has kept the failed state of Nigeria together. It is one of the institutions that have continued to fuel unpunished and unpunish-able corruption. One of Ibori’s self-exoneration was that the state of which he was governor did not complain that he had stolen money from it, why would the federal government that had no locum standi be complaining!
Dr. Jonathan makes promises about doing something about the power supply without spelling out what he intends to do. President Olusegun Obasanjo claimed that the power question was the work of saboteurs and as a military general working as a civilian president of Nigeria he could not deploy the military power necessary to deal with saboteurs. So they continued their damaging of the Nigerian psyche, never mind the circumstance.
Then came Yar’Ardua, of blessed memory, who claimed that the power problem was created by a mafia but he was not long with us to face the mafia. Anyone who knows that has happened in Italy, the original home of the mafia, and how the president there has worked assiduously to prevent any legal check on the mafia, can imagine what would have happened if Yar’Adua had been around long enough to challenge our mafia. With what, other than good luck, would Dr. Jonathan fight the importers of generators?
Maybe Nigeria is a gambling country. Nothing in its previous history points to good luck in its efforts. Political unrest, civil war, financial mismanagement, judicial killings as well as judicial irresponsibility, and idiotic impositions on the future have been some of the headlines in its 50 years history as an independent country. To take the last item first – idiotic impositions on the future. It is well known that people who have failed in the past have a knack of imposing on the future in order to claim the rights of existence in the present. People who have never lifted a hoe would threaten to fill values and reduce mountains to plains for fair play. If only the future could defend itself against such impositions.
The first and perhaps the most annoying imposition on the future was made by that master of Nigeria’s failures, General President Olusegun Obasanjo who claimed that some private university would produce a Nobel Prize winner in five years in Nigeria! Of course he knows nothing of the institutional infrastructures that support universities such as Harvard, Yale, Oxford, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Cape Town and numerous others around the world.
And then there are the idiotic Vision 2010, Vision 2015, Vision 2020 which each failing Nigerian government has imposed on the future shamelessly, continuously, without doing anything that would make such futures merely permissible through the building of infrastructures. The greatest of such infrastructure would be the provision of continuous power supply to the whole country. Thinking of which one should ask publicly if it is true what conspirator theorists insist is an attempt to stop the industrialisation of the south of the country by denying electricity supply to the whole country. There was a time when about 65 per cent of the industrial power of Nigeria was based in the South of the country. This was said to be unacceptable for the powers that be in the North. As a result the leadership of the power supply corporation sabotaged their own year after year, decade after decade, in order to inflict political punishment on their rivals in the South. And Nigeria became the world capital of imported generators.
There is a myth that winning gamblers know when to stop. Winning gamblers do not know when to stop. They in fact do not want to stop because they wish to break the house. Losing gamblers of course never stop until they win, when they then want to break the house and they become losing gamblers!
So, once more, our chances are skewed. Dr. Jonathan, good luck!
Wishing anyone good luck assumes that that person has what it needs to undertake whatever task the person has been set or has set him/herself. This is the kind of greeting you wish a Mandela as he is sworn in as president of South Africa. He has come to the position taking risks and winning, especially when he decided that as leader of the African National Congress he would go ahead and talk to the enemy since the enemy wished to talk to him and hope that his comrades in the movement would trust him to do the right thing by them. I played the part of Govan Mbeki in the film Mandela and de Klerk and all my lines were questions to Mandela as he went into his talks with the Boers! But he went in and he won. Wishing President Mandela good luck at his inauguration as president of South Africa had a basis in previous tasks undertaken and brought to success.
It is the kind of greeting to give to Barack Obama at his inauguration as president of the United States of America in the light of his epic struggle to win the nomination and then to win the presidency. Whatever trials and tribulations would beset him in the next five years would beset him against the background of identifiable tasks previously achieved.
It is the kind of greeting you give to Usain Bolt as he prepares for another 100 metres dash knowing that he had already set a previous world record doing that dash. But good luck Nigeria? In what context? Wishing Mandela good luck had a context. He worked within an existing institutional infrastructure built we understand for whites only but made to serve every South African citizen. Barack Obama operated within an institutional infrastructure which worked no matter who to work it. Wishing him good luck had a context. Mr. Bolt perhaps spent his youth running away from street bullies, misguided law officers and his irate parents. On what basis can we wish Dr. Jonathan good luck besides simply calling out his first name?
Dr. Jonathan has started on the wrong footing by entertaining the idea of more state creation in Nigeria. If there is anything that is needed in Nigeria it is putting an end to the creation of states which are no more than channels for the distribution of petrol dollars that has kept the failed state of Nigeria together. It is one of the institutions that have continued to fuel unpunished and unpunish-able corruption. One of Ibori’s self-exoneration was that the state of which he was governor did not complain that he had stolen money from it, why would the federal government that had no locum standi be complaining!
Dr. Jonathan makes promises about doing something about the power supply without spelling out what he intends to do. President Olusegun Obasanjo claimed that the power question was the work of saboteurs and as a military general working as a civilian president of Nigeria he could not deploy the military power necessary to deal with saboteurs. So they continued their damaging of the Nigerian psyche, never mind the circumstance.
Then came Yar’Ardua, of blessed memory, who claimed that the power problem was created by a mafia but he was not long with us to face the mafia. Anyone who knows that has happened in Italy, the original home of the mafia, and how the president there has worked assiduously to prevent any legal check on the mafia, can imagine what would have happened if Yar’Adua had been around long enough to challenge our mafia. With what, other than good luck, would Dr. Jonathan fight the importers of generators?
Maybe Nigeria is a gambling country. Nothing in its previous history points to good luck in its efforts. Political unrest, civil war, financial mismanagement, judicial killings as well as judicial irresponsibility, and idiotic impositions on the future have been some of the headlines in its 50 years history as an independent country. To take the last item first – idiotic impositions on the future. It is well known that people who have failed in the past have a knack of imposing on the future in order to claim the rights of existence in the present. People who have never lifted a hoe would threaten to fill values and reduce mountains to plains for fair play. If only the future could defend itself against such impositions.
The first and perhaps the most annoying imposition on the future was made by that master of Nigeria’s failures, General President Olusegun Obasanjo who claimed that some private university would produce a Nobel Prize winner in five years in Nigeria! Of course he knows nothing of the institutional infrastructures that support universities such as Harvard, Yale, Oxford, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Cape Town and numerous others around the world.
And then there are the idiotic Vision 2010, Vision 2015, Vision 2020 which each failing Nigerian government has imposed on the future shamelessly, continuously, without doing anything that would make such futures merely permissible through the building of infrastructures. The greatest of such infrastructure would be the provision of continuous power supply to the whole country. Thinking of which one should ask publicly if it is true what conspirator theorists insist is an attempt to stop the industrialisation of the south of the country by denying electricity supply to the whole country. There was a time when about 65 per cent of the industrial power of Nigeria was based in the South of the country. This was said to be unacceptable for the powers that be in the North. As a result the leadership of the power supply corporation sabotaged their own year after year, decade after decade, in order to inflict political punishment on their rivals in the South. And Nigeria became the world capital of imported generators.
There is a myth that winning gamblers know when to stop. Winning gamblers do not know when to stop. They in fact do not want to stop because they wish to break the house. Losing gamblers of course never stop until they win, when they then want to break the house and they become losing gamblers!
So, once more, our chances are skewed. Dr. Jonathan, good luck!
Atiku, IBB, Gana groups meet, seek common ground on Jonathan
TWO major groups that have been at loggerheads over whether President Goodluck Jonathan is eligible to contest next year’s presidential elections or whether the presidency should remain in the North yesterday (Thursday) night began meeting in Abuja to find a common ground.
The agenda between the G15 of General Ibrahim Babangida/Atiku Abubakar/Adamu Ciroma coalition and the Professor Jerry Gana G20 Group was not known last night, but it is generally believed that both groups want to determine how the North should go on the issue of the Jonathan ambition.
The Guardian had reported last Monday that indications that opposing northern groups would meet over President Goodluck Jonathan ambitions for 2011 looked more feasible in Abuja.
The Babangida/Atiku group has been opposed to Jonathan taking a shot at the presidency, but another northern group G20 led by Professor Jerry Gana and two National Vice Chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) believe the President should contest the office because he had a joint ticket with late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, and divine providence had opened the way for the country to have a President from the Niger Delta.
Sources had confirmed comments made by Gana last week that there had been an exchange of letters between him and Malam Adamu Ciroma. “Malam Ciroma wrote and I replied in a nice decent way. We shall come to a mutual agreement in the best interst of Nigeria,” Gana said last week Thursday at a press conference.
Another source said he was sure both groups will not agree on the issue of whether Jonathan should contest or not. “It is a waste of time, there are too many big egos involved,” the source said.
The meeting is coming even as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has slated next week as the date he will formally declare his bid to contest the 2011 presidential elections on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He sent the invitation for the declaration yesterday and it is to be held in the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja.
BAT West Africa Area Recruiting: Management Trainee
Job Title: Management Trainee
Principal Accountabilities:
- The Management Trainee Programme will involve an assessment of your leadership and managerial skills. Where necessary we will support your development with further formal training. You will be provided with opportunities to put these skills into practice, in preparation for your move to a managerial role.
- The MT Programme will structure your development around a clearly defined set of objectives. You will gain support and encouragement from three sources. Your Coach- a manager who will work with you to ensure that you are reaching the standards expected of you and you are getting what you need from the programme. Your Mentor- a senior manager from another function, sharing the benefit of their experience and supporting you in the achievement of your personal objectives. Also, there will be other management trainees around the world who will form an invaluable network of contacts for you.
- At the end of this period, having met the performance requirements, you will be appointed to your first managerial role with British American Tobacco.
Knowledge, Skills and Experience:
- Successful completion of NYSC by August 1st 2010
- Be comfortable working in an industry which can be seen as controversial
- Excellent academic performance and successful completion of relevant degree. Minimum of 2.1
- Track record of outstanding extra-curricular achievement and leadership skill
- Innovative and creative
- Has clear personal objectives and responsibility for self development
- Fluent in English. French proficiency an added advantage
- Strong Numerical and Verbal comprehension
- Strong oral and written communication skills
Key Outputs:
- Action Oriented approach to work
- Contribution to functional objectives
- Graduate from the program as an exceptional performer
Equity statement:
BAT WAA is an equal opportunities employer. All shorlisted applicants will be considered and assessed using the same criteria and recruitment process.
Response Deadline: 26 August 2010
Location: Nigeria
Remuneration: Competitive
How to Apply: Click here
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