NUC Approves "University of Africa"

The National University Commission (NUC) has approved the University of Africa as the 43rd state university in the country.

Its approval followed the formal presentation of the relevant gazette law, academic brief and physical masterplan as well as the satisfactory report of the advisory resource assessment visit by the commission.

The University of Africa is an initiative of the Bayelsa State Government, which will, however, run as a Public Private Partnership (PPP), since the state government will only provide the enabling environment, while the financing would come from the private sector.

Giving the nod, through a letter dated 28 of July 2016, the Executive Secretary of the commission, Professor Julius Okojie, while congratulating the state government, noted that, the establishment of the university took effect from the 28th of July, having complied with the basic requirements.

According to Okojie, the University of Africa is also the 143rd in the Nigerian university system.

In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Bayelsa State Governor, Daniel Iworiso-Markson, yesterday and made available to the press, Governor Seriake Dickson had led a delegation of top government officials to the office of the commission in Abuja and were received by executive secretary, who briefed the governor on the latest development and the approval of the university.

The statement disclosed that, Okojie handed over the letter of approval to Dickson during the visit, as he also commended him for the initiative.

In his remarks, Dickson, while thanking the NUC Executive Secretary for the warm reception accorded him and his team, explained that, the University of Africa, Toru-Orua was conceived as a public private partnership and it is designed as a first rate institution of learning that will also attract some of the best teachers from Africa and the world.

He said the university will be funded by its partners and the government would only provide the enabling environment for its establishment.

The Bayelsa State Chief Executive said, there is need for more private universities to be established and they must be fee paying, pointing out that, it is the only way to make funding of tertiary institutions viable and sustainable.

His words "I am here leading this small delegation to present to you these laws passed by the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, establishing a new university that we want to bring about working with the private sector. It will be run on a PPP basis.

It is a University unlike the existing one, it will not be directly funded by the state. Our belief is that moving forward for a university to be sustainable, we must create room for private sector participation and involvement.

The University of Africa, Toru-Orua, is the first of its kind in this country, that is established by government with private sector involvement and it will be strictly a fee paying tertiary institution that will attract students from across the continent and the globe. It will be the model as we encourage more private universities in this country".

http://bayelsa.gov.ng/nuc-approves-university-africa

FEDERAL GOVT DEPORTS 3 KOREANS

The Federal Government of Nigeria had on the 20th of July, 2016 deported three (3) South Koreans namely Lee Yoo Song, Lee Byeung Woo and Moon Een Soo for Immigration related offences. 

The Hon. Minister of Interior, Lt. Gen. Abdulrahaman Dambazau (Rtd) in the exercise of the powers conferred on him by sections 45(2) and (3) and 44( 1e) of the Immigration Act 2015 signed the Deportation Order.

With the deportation order in force, the three (3) Koreans will not be eligible to enter Nigeria again through any port in the next ten years.

Without prejudice to the Foreign Investment Drive of Government, the Comptroller – General of Immigration, Muhammad Babandede, wishes to use this opportunity to caution all expatriates and their employers in Nigeria to respect the laws of the country as the Nigeria Immigration Service is determined to implement all aspect of immigration laws in the public interest.

However expatriates resident in Nigeria with correct documentation are assured of the protection of their rights and dignity.

Ekpedeme King

(Deputy Comptroller of Immigration)

Service Public Relations Officer

Nigeria has shown political will to move tourism forward – UN Agency

The Secretary-General of the UN World Tourism Agency (UNWTO), Mr. Taleb Rifai, has hailed the demonstration of political will by the Nigerian government to move tourism forward in the country.

''There is the existence of political will and we can feel it from outside (the country),'' Mr. Rifai said on Tuesday at the opening of a two-day meeting with the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, in Madrid, Spain

''Anyone who is interested in Nigeria will know the positive development that has taken place (in the country)'' he said, adding that there is the need to ''tell this story to the world''.

The UNWTO Secretary-General, who noted that tourism contributes 10% of global GDP and creates one out of every 11 jobs, expressed delight at the opportunity provided by the Minister’s visit for the agency to seriously engage with Nigeria, instead of the ''casual engagements'' which both (UNWTO and Nigeria) has had in the past.

''Nigeria is absolutely very important to us. The success of Nigeria is positive for the (African) continent and the world,'' he said.

For his part, the Minister briefed the UNWTO Secretary-General and his delegation on the political, economic and security situation in Nigeria, saying while the country is going through a tough time, the government is focused and determined to take it out of its present predicament.

He said with the defeat of Boko Haram in the North-east and the ongoing engagement of the militants in the Niger Delta by the federal government, Nigeria is on top of the security situation in the country.

Alhaji Mohammed said since Culture and Tourism has been identified as one of the sectors that form the plank of the country’s diversification efforts, there has been a definite move to resuscitate the President Council on Tourism (PCT), the highest advisory body on tourism in the country.

The Minister also told the UN agency of his plan to visit each of the clusters identified in the country’s Tourism Master Plan as part of an overall effort to re-ignite the Master Plan and also encourage domestic tourism.

He urged the global body to support Nigeria’s tourism development through the provision of technical assistance, especially in the area of data gathering and processing, as well as capacity building.

''In particular, we are planning capacity building centre for women in tourism in each of the country’s six geo-political zones, because when you empower women, you empower the society,'' Alhaji Mohammed said, adding that the assistance of the UNWTO in this regard would be a welcome development.

The Minister, who was accompanied to the meeting by officials of the Nigerian Embassy in Spain and the Ministry of Information and Culture, is in Spain at the invitation of the UNWTO Secretary-General,who has promised to work with Nigeria in designing a programme that can give a fillip to the development of tourism in Nigeria.

https://www.today.ng/news/national/158692/nigeria-political-move-tourism-forward-agency

102 New Industries Now Open In Ogun – Amosun

The industrialization drive of the Ogun State Government under the leadership of Senator Ibikunle Amosun has continued to attract huge investments to the state as another plant of the Coca-Cola Bottling Company berths in the State bringing to 102, the number of industries in the state.

Governor Ibikunle Amosun disclosed this while receiving the Managing Director of the company, Mr Adeola Adetunji who paid him a courtesy call in his office in Oke-mosan, Abeokuta , assuring that his government would not relent in its effort at creating enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

Amosun maintained that “We as a state would continue to create the enabling environment for business to thrive with the provision of basic infrastructures like good roads, adequate security and housing estates. Since the inception of our administration,the establishment of this plant sums up the number of industries and companies in the state to a total of 102’’ .

The Governor urged the company to expedite action on the mobilization of both human and capital resources towards ensuring the commencement of operations by the company which would further create wealth and provide employment opportunities for youths.

The Managing Director of Coca-Cola Company in Nigeria, Mr. Adeola Adetunji commended the governor on his giant strides for the state to become an industrial hub and expressed the willingness of the company to partner with the government.

Mr. Adetunji said the management of the company had chosen Ogun State for being the gateway to other states, as a strategic stance, before expanding to other states of the country.

The First Female Nigerian Doctorate Degree Holder in the Field of Engineering.

Olatokunbo Arinola Somolu (Engr. Dr.); The First Female Nigerian Doctorate Degree Holder in the Field of Engineering.

Olatokunbo Arinola Somolu (Engr. Dr.), is the first female Nigerian doctorate degree holder in any field of engineering. She was born in Lagos State on 11th of October, 1950.

She had her primary education at Anglican Girl’s School, Lagos (1957-1962) and her secondary education at Queen’s College, Yaba, Lagos, which she finished in 1967 with eight distinctions. 

She further completed her A’ Levels in the same school in 1969, after which she was admitted into the University of Lagos where she graduated top of her class with a B.Sc. degree in Civil Engineering in 1973.

She obtained her Ph.D degree in Civil Engineering (Structures) in 1978, thus becoming the first Nigerian woman to hold a Ph.D in any field of Engineering.

Dr. Somolu started her professional career as Pupil Engineer with Sokoto Waterworks in 1973. She was a Senior Lecturer and also the Head of Department, Civil Engineering, Yaba College of Technology between 1977 and 1982.

She joined NNPC in 1982 as Assistant Chief Civil Engineer. She was Head, Civil Engineering Unit of ETD, NNPC in 1990, Head, Special Projects in 1992 and Manager, Engineering in 1995. In November 2003, she was appointed General Manager (Projects) and in February 2005 she became the first woman to Head the Engineering and Technology Division (ETD) of NNPC as the Group General Manager.

Her engineering prowess can be appreciated through the major projects she supervised. These include: The world class NNPC Towers Complex in Abuja, DPR offices in Kofo Abayomi, V/Island, the New Atlas Cove Jetty and NNPC Floating Fuel Filling Stations. She voluntarily retired from NNPC in 2009 after 27 years of active and dedicated services

Dr. Somolu has undertaken several national assignments. She was a member of the Boards of Federal Emergency Road Management Agency (FERMA) and the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA). She was inducted into the Nigerian Women Hall of Fame in 2007 as the first Nigerian Female to hold a Ph.D. in Engineering.

She has received several honors and awards for her professional excellence. She is a COREN Registered Engineer, Fellow, The Nigerian Society of Engineers and Member, Nigerian Institute of Management.

Acknowledgement : Dawn Commission 

AfDB approves $56bn industrialisation package for Nigeria, others

The Board of African Development Bank, AfDB, yesterday, approved $56 billion to scale up industrialisation in Nigeria and other countries on the content over the next ten years under its Industrialisation Strategy for Africa 2016-2025.

In a statement, the bank stated: “The Strategy, approved by the Board, represents a roadmap for implementing priority programs to scale–up the industrial transformation of Africa.

“It addresses key issues such as: (i) Why we need to industrialise Africa; (ii) What it will take to industrialise Africa; and (iii) How AfDB will help to industrialise Africa;

“In designing the strategy, the Bank underscored the vital roles that industrialisation plays in development as it leverages all the value chains of economic activity ranging from raw materials to finished products. It catalyzes productivity by introducing new equipment and new techniques, increases the capabilities of the workforce, and diffuses these improvements into the wider economy. It generates formal employment, which in turn creates social stability. It improves the balance of trade by creating goods for export and replacing imports.

“The strategy aims to (i) Develop industrial sector and policy framework, (ii) Enhance trade and integrate Africa into the regional and international value chains and (iii) Boost competitiveness and value creation by expanding supply of business services to maximise impact on the performance of industries and vice-versa.

“To achieve these goals, the strategy would rely on five enablers which the Bank will mainstream into flagship programs. These are: (i) Supportive policy, legislation and institutions; (ii) Conducive economic environment and infrastructure; (iii) Access to capital; (iv) Access to markets; and (v) Competitive talents, capabilities, and entrepreneurship.

“In successful industrializing countries, these enablers have typically been integrated into a comprehensive industrial policy that has enabled businesses, both large and small, to develop along the value chains of selected, high-potential industrial sectors,” said the statement.

It added: “The Bank will support countries by championing six flagship programs: (i) Foster successful industrial policies; (ii) Catalyze funding in infrastructure and industry projects; (iii) Grow liquid and effective capital markets; (iv) Promote and drive enterprise development; (v) Promote strategic partnerships; and (vi) Develop efficient industry clusters.

“It would also increase its level of funding and crowding-in third party resources to the tune of USD 35 to 56 billion over the next decade. The Bank will also leverage additional resources through partnership with other DFIs, relevant UN agencies, AUC, RECs, and special purpose vehicles providing seed funds. In addition, substantial amounts will be mobilized through syndication and co-financing in support of phased programs that would be specific to local contexts and in line with the countries’ development goals.

“Industrialize Africa” will build on synergies across the other H5’s – Light up and power Africa, Feed Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the quality of life for the people of Africa – by virtue of its cross-cutting agenda.”

https://www.today.ng/news/national/158299/afdb-approves-56bn-industrialisation-package-nigeria

Ambode flags off Epe-Marina Lagoon reclamation project

Lagos State Governor, Mr Akinwunmi Ambode on Tuesday embarked on extensive inspection of on-going projects across the State, where he equally flagged off the world class Epe-Marina Lagoon reclamation project aimed at giving a quantum leap to the tourism potentials of the State.

Governor Ambode, who was accompanied on the inspection tour by top government functionaries, said the lagoon reclamation projects in Epe and Badagry, upon completion, would look like that of Dubai in United Arab Emirates (UAE).

He assured that the Badagry-Marina Lagoon reclamation project would be completed by the end of August, this year.

The Epe-Marina Lagoon reclamation project is a complete redevelopment of project site to facilitate development of the area and promote tourism.

The project comes with sand filling to the lagoon up to about 200 meters and dualization of the network of roads in the axis with functional walkways.

Speaking on why the Epe-Marina and Badagry-Marina projects were embarked upon simultaneously by the State Government, Governor Ambode said: "We want to actually duplicate what you see in Dubai-Marina. This is a whole stretch of two kilometers of real estate and new tourist centres that we are putting in Epe and Badagry at the same time.

"We believe strongly that coming out from our retreat that we said we are going to grow the IGR of Lagos State by 2017 to N30billion and 2018 to N50billion, we believe that some of these projects that we are commencing now are just inlets to our dream of growing the IGR.

"We know that by the time we are expanding tourism potentials of Badagry and Epe at the same time, we will be able to get new investors that will be able to come to our new locations to do other things beyond what you see about recreation, tourism or entertainment and then get a whole lot of investments into Lagos State. This is part of our dreams and dreams do come true.

"We are looking at the future of tourism from both axis. You cannot put tourism in those places without doing the infrastructure that is required to allow people to come in and that is why we are also doing the road network," the Governor said.

Governor Ambode, who equally inspected the on-going dualization of about 25 network of roads in Epe, said the massive investment of government in the area was part of the grand plan to transform the axis and same was in line with the Lekki Free Trade Zone (LFTZ) project.

He expressed satisfaction with the level and pace of work done so far, saying that the quality was of international standard.
He also expressed optimism that the projects, upon completion, would decongest the heartland of Lagos as people would be encouraged to move to Epe and Ibeju-Lekki axis.

Speaking to journalists at the project sites, Governor Ambode said: "We believe with this expansion, the whole lot of what we are trying to do in Epe and Ibeju-Lekki axis will be developed.

"We are inspired to see how we can look at the phase two of this project as quickly as possible. This road dualization is expected to be completed in 16 months but because we are ahead of schedule, we are looking at the first quarter of next year.

"With this, we have just injected 30 kilometers of standard roads into Epe and the meaning of that is of course changing the economy of Epe Township, real estate will be boomed and we are encouraging commerce and industrialization.

"This project is the backbone of the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Deep Seaport and the proposed Airport. All the State Government is doing is stimulating the economy and that is what is happening here," he said.

Governor Ambode also inspected the VIP Chalets in Epe where he disclosed that government will expand the housing scheme in the area and carry out perimeter fencing of the project site.

Earlier, Governor Ambode and his team inspected the Adeniji Adele transport interchange outward Third Mainland Bridge, where he ordered massive enforcement against illegal dropping and picking of passengers at undesignated bus stops.

This, the Governor said, would enhance ease of vehicular movement around that axis and drastically reduce traffic on the Third Mainland Bridge inward Obalende and Lagos Island.

The Governor also inspected the on-going rehabilitation and upgrading of Freedom Road and Admiralty Way in Lekki, as well as the on-going bridge being constructed at Ajah Roundabout.

He, however, urged the people to continue to pay their taxes so that government would continue to provide the needed infrastructures.

He said: "I think in the last 14 months, we have been able to show Lagosians that we can actually appropriate the taxes that they paid judiciously and then allocate it to the different sectors that really have meaning and impact to the ordinary Lagosians.

"The more they see what we are doing, the more inspired tax payers should be to perform their civic obligations and when they pay their taxes, our commitment remains the same, we will use these taxes judiciously and also expand the growth and economy of Lagos so that life becomes safer, cleaner and then more prosperous for all Lagosians," he said.

Saraki Urges NLNG To Reduce Gas Flaring In Nigeria

Senate President, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, has advised the management and board of the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG), to work towards reducing the current 20 per cent of gas being flared in the country, stating that it is by so doing that activities of the gas company would be appreciated by Nigerians.

He also pledged the determination of the 8th Senate and indeed the National Assembly to foster business friendly laws in the country.

The Senate President gave the advise on Monday when he granted audience to the outgoing Managing Director of NLNG, Mr. Babs Omotowa, who came to introduce the in-coming Managing Director, Tony Attah to him.

According to the Senate President, after listening to the opening remarks by the out-going NLNG Managing Director that the NLNG has succeeded in reducing gas flaring in Nigeria from 60 per cent to 20 per cent, said, "there is need to do more. You have to work harder so you can further reduce the current status of gas flaring in Nigeria."

While pledging the support of the National Assembly in efforts to end gas flaring in the country, Saraki told the management of the NLNG that the National Assembly would not relent in its efforts to ensure the enthronement of business friendly incentives for economic development of the country.

He explained that it was in this regard that the Senate facilitated the review of the railways laws, inherited from the colonial masters over 50 years ago.

The Senate President explained that the review of the railway law is central to the success of economic reforms in the country.

The Senate President who called for the Private Sector participation in railway development in Nigeria, said that, "no government can fully fund railways development as it is central to economic reforms."

Saraki also advised the management of the NLNG to ensure that the roads leading from Port Harcourt to Bonny is constructed as it would lead to harmonious corporate community relationship with the host community in Bonny.

The Senate President advised the management of the NLNG to ensure that there is improvement in the use of domestic gas for cooking as it would drastically reduce the use of firewood for cooking in the country and consequently help to preserve the environment.

Earlier, the out-going Managing Director of NLNG, Omotowa, said that he and the management team were at the National Assembly to introduce Mr. Tony Attah who is billed to assume duties as the new managing director of the company on September 1.

He also thanked the Senate President who is the Chairman of the National Assembly for providing a fruitful and conducive atmosphere for the NLNG during his tenure as the chief executive of the gas company, while urging him to extend the same relationship to his successor, Tony Attah.

Meanwhile, Saraki has called for improved bilateral relationship between Nigeria and the Islamic Republic of Iran, especially in areas of common interest like education and elimination of terrorism.

He stated this when the Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mohammad Javad Zarif, led a delegation of Iranian officials on a visit to him at his National Assembly.

According to the Senate President, "there should be bilateral cooperation between Nigeria and the Islamic Republic of Iran, especially in areas where there are common challenges like in tackling terrorism, science and education as well as in socio-cultural cooperation."

He said that the visit of the Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs marks a new era in the bilateral relationship between both countries, as it would step up cooperation and collaboration in areas with similar interests between Nigeria and Iran.

In urging for cooperation, Saraki said that Nigeria and Iran has similar interests as regard the diversification of the economy, stating, "we are both oil producing countries and the falling price of crude oil has made it imperative for the diversification of the economy."

On his part, the Iranian Minister of Foreign Affairs told the Senate President that Iran is ready to work and collaborate with Nigeria in education, science and technical fields, stating that there are many Nigerian students undergoing studies in several fields of endeavour in Iran.

The Minister further stated that Iran has scholarship programmes for Nigerian students schooling in Nigeria.

He also said that Iran is ready to collaborate with Nigeria in parliamentary affairs, as both countries are members of several international parliamentary associations.

Covenant University Wins 4th ANUDC Public Speaking Event

The 4th All-Nigeria Universities Debating Championship (ANUDC), hosted by Covenant University has ended, with winners emerging in the two categories of the tournament- Debate and Public Speaking. The host, Covenant University won the Public Speaking event of the competition.

Having qualified for the final of the Public Speaking category with two representatives, Onyinye Jacinta Madu, a 400 Level International Relations student beat nineteen (19) other contestants to put Covenant University ahead. In a keenly contested public speaking session, which saw University of Lagos, Afe Babalola University and Imo State University’s contestants pulling lots of weight and commanding crowd ovation, the ten-man adjudication panel went with Covenant University, which unanimously declared the hosts winner of the competition.

Covenant University thus becomes the first private institution in the history of the ANUDC to win in any category of the championship. The second and third positions in Public Speaking were won by University of Lagos and Imo State University, respectively.

In another award category, Covenant University was given a trophy for “Outstanding Host” in recognition of the superlative and unprecedented organisation of the tournament.

The Covenant University Vice-Chancellor, Professor AAA Atayero congratulated the delegates for a commendable initiative and for choosing Covenant University as host. Professor Atayero, represented by the Director, Vice-Chancellor’s Office, Dr. Akan Williams, described the championship as one unique platform to develop the mind and capacity of Nigerian youths, saying that, “it is in league with Covenant University’s motto, which is Raising a New Generation of Leaders” in the country and continent.

The Vice-Chancellor wished the organizers well and commended them for a job well done.

Speaking at the event, the President of the ANUDC Council, Dr. Ndubuisi Osuagwu, praised the University and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the tournament for “being a great team player with the Council, a high sense of responsibility and organization and for putting in place a most orderly championship, which clearly differs from previous experience”.

Describing the institution as serene and beautiful, he figuratively said many of the delegates were “disappointed because what they saw and got was not in any way, what they had expected, in view of perceptions before arriving for the event”.

Several heads of delegations present also commended the host and its LOC for a great sense of organisation. The head of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, delegation, Dr. Olubode-Sawe praised the organisers for orderliness and attention to details and for departing from the controversy that often characterised the championship. She hailed the University’s Tour Guides (who doubled as the Championship Runners) for being very courteous, disciplined and hardworking.

In his closing address for the championship, Chairman of the LOC, Dr. Sheriff Folarin, described the one-week tournament as one that had developed the minds of people, created new and enduring relationships and an opportunity to showcase the rich, sociable and responsible culture of the host-institution. Dr. Folarin said that, “We hope we have met your expectations. We hope you have seen exactly who we are and not what you had thought we were. We are a very good people. We are sociable, hospitable and cultured people”.

In a speech well received by the audience, Dr. Folarin described the tournament as the fairest, devoid of controversy and disputations about adjudication, saying “we have learnt from previous championships and reversed from the win-at-all-cost mentality of hosts and participants and have chosen to give you a truly impartial competition”.

The debate category of the 4th ANUDC (Covenant Interface 2016) was won by University of Ilorin. Beating University of Calabar and Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) to the second and third positions respectively, University of Ilorin became the first outsider to snatch victory in a ring of famous old hawks, namely, Universities of Calabar, Lagos and Imo State, which were known to be traditional leaders in the Nigerian debating community.

CU Registrar, Pastor Olamide Olusegun (R), presenting a certificate of merit to Chairman, Local Organising Committee, ANUDC 2016, Dr. Sheriff Folarin

ECONOMIC RECOVERY: WE’RE LEARNING FROM THE DIVERSIFICATION OF THE IRANIAN ECONOMY

President Muhammadu Buhari Monday in Abuja said the Federal Government is working assiduously to ameliorate the challenges faced by the Nigerian economy within a short period by understudying the experiences of countries like Iran who thrived in adversity.

Receiving a Special Envoy from the President of Islamic Republic of Iran at the State House, Mohammad Javad Zarif, President Buhari said the Iranian economy remains an inspiration for Nigeria in the deployment of technology to harness and export gas, grow food for the populace and promote entrepreneurship in education.

''The progress made by Iran within a short period of 30 years is really commendable. Within the period, you have been able to harness gas flaring, and you are now exporting. You have recorded strides in security, manufacturing, agriculture and technology.

''You have also achieved a lot in nuclear research. I must also congratulate you for successfully negotiating with America and the European countries on the development of your nuclear energy,’’ he said.

The President noted that Nigeria had all the potentials for growing into a great economy through more inclusive planning, consistency in government policies and commitment to the realization of development targets.

''In Nigeria, we are learning. We are learning the hard way through hardship, and we are learning very quickly on how to explore other sectors of the economy like gas, solid minerals and agriculture for growth.

''We are grateful for your support and cooperation in opening up the Nigerian economy for diversification,’’ President Buhari told the envoy.

In his remark, the Iranian envoy, who is also the Minister of Foreign Affairs, said the Iranian government would support the ongoing restructuring of the Nigerian economy.

''We are very keen to see a better and stronger relationship with Nigeria, which is the largest country in Africa and a major global player,'' he said.

Zarif said he came into Nigeria with a delegation of more than 70 members of the Iranian business community who had already started discussions in investing in sectors like banking, education, scholarship, agriculture, energy, tourism and technology development.

Trainees in Germany vow to turn around agric business in Osun, Nigeria

Governor of Osun State Rauf Aregbesola

Exactly three weeks after leaving Osun State and arriving in the State of Saxony-Anhalt in Germany for their three months intensive training in agriculture and food production technology, beneficiaries of the scheme have expressed high hopes that Nigeria’s fate lies in modern agriculture enterprises.

The beneficiaries, who shared their experiences with a German newspaper, A-Z Online, revealed how their three weeks already spent in Germany have shown that Nigeria’s economy had refused to grow because of the country’s over-dependence on oil.

The ongoing training is in furtherance of the collaboration between the Osun State Government and the state of Saxony-Anhalt, Germany. ‎

The training is in continuation of government’s drive to revolutionise agriculture in the state under the Osun Rural Enterprise and Agriculture Programme and boost food productions for local consumption as well as export.‎

Adesuyi Fasola Michael and Adebayo Waheed Adekunle, both trainees, were quoted by the German newspaper as expressing satisfaction with their training, vowing that Nigeria and Osun State in particular would feel their impact when they return to Nigeria.

Also in a statement by the Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Office of the Governor, Michael was quoted as saying: “We are poised to take agriculture to a new height in our state,”

He equally stated that Nigeria’s potentials in agriculture have been lying untapped for ages.

Adekunle, who also spoke with the German newspaper, said when the new technologies are deployed in agriculture business, Nigeria will have a lot to learn from them.

He said: “We are here for the future of our country. I am confident that this is the way to go if Nigeria must feed itself and as my Governor, Rauf Aregbesola tells all of us, a nation that cannot feed itself is on its path to perish. Our people must perish.”

The coast became clear for the youths who have been selected for the training when they rounded up their German language training in Osogbo.‎

The completion of the language course under the supervision of a German Instructor marked the end of the preparations for the journey aimed at producing the next set of technically skilled hands that who would advance the state in its agricultural business enterprises.

The youth, numbering 18, having arrived Germany as the first batch, spent three days at Kolping Training Institute in Hettstedt where they received orientation in simple cultural ethics of the Germans.‎

The Osun State team after the three days orientation in Hettstedt, was visited by the German Cooperative Farmers in continuation of their practical ways of modern agriculture.

Interactive session on how to make the experience of the visiting youths worthwhile were held with the German farmers and the students were distributed, based on their areas of interest.

The trainees were handed over to the farmers at two per Cooperative Farmer with their theory training syllabus.

The trainees, like the first set, will undergo a four-week intensive course in agricultural training school, where they will be exposed to the rudiments of modern agriculture and food crop production techniques.

This will also be followed by another three weeks of attachment trainings under different large-scale co-operative farmers in the State of Saxony-Anhalt to enable them learn more and build on the assessed capacities and interests they have acquired during the first four weeks of training‎.‎

The immediate past Senior Special Assistant on Quick Impact Intervention Programme, Dele Ogundipe, explained that serious agricultural development has always been the cardinal objective of the Governor Rauf Aregbesola administration.

Ogundipe said: “I visited the Ministry of Agriculture in Saxony-Anhalt and was met by the Director for Foreign Partnerships, Mr. Mathias Willen Bockel.

“During the meeting, the Director showed me the congratulatory letter written to the new Minister of Agriculture of Saxony-Anhalt by Mr. Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, and promised that the reply to this letter would soon get to Osun.”

Ogundipe held that the training programme is a success and recommended that the collaboration between Osun State and Saxony-Anhalt, Germany in the areas of agricultural development be encouraged.

https://www.today.ng/news/national/157472/trainees-germany-vow-turn-agric-business-osun-nigeria

6 THINGS I LEARNT AT BAYO ADEKANMBI'S BOOK UNVEILING 20/07 AT UNIVERSITY OF LONDON BIRKBECK

By Brooks Henry

I was very privileged to attend the pre-release and academic presentation of Bayo Adekanmbi at the University of London, Malet Street. Bayo shared the core themes of his independent research on Sharing Economy and its implications for emerging market. It was a very cerebral event with senior academia, students, families and friends in attendance. Quoting one of the Professors who sat very close to me, "Bayo has provided a very rare but intelligent synthesis of multiple knowledge areas of analytics, sociology, consumption behaviour and economics to advance his inspiring hypothesis on how sharing economy can be situated within an emerging market for socioeconomic development. Beyond academic recommendation, Ali Clabburn - the man behind Britain's most successful sharing economy business, who was also in attendance commended Bayo's original thought and application in real world.

As a student of life and nature, I picked 6 lessons, which are worth sharing to celebrate a fellow alumnus of the University of Reading, UK.

1) A man is not greater than his belief and whatever your faith is anchored on, make it the core of your life expression. I am an atheist...I don't believe in God but I always observe how Bayo shares his academic knowledge around the fringes of his faith. He has a unique way of weaving his thoughts around his belief in God, such that his sermon find expression even in a full academic context without breaking any rule. I like the way he finds a nexus between God and his work. On Wednesday, he made a nice quote that sounded like... "there is a spirit in every man and inspiration from above gives all understanding". (Paraphrased as I am not sure I got it right). Whether I agree with his faith or not, I think it's smart for a man's faith to have a consistent expression hinged on conviction and respect for others...Bayo pushed the envelope and celebrated his God as the source of all wisdom without offending anyone. He was subtle but really pushed hard his domain of influence. 

If your "God" is truly real and big, be convinced of it where it matters most. Lets the reality be visible in your everyday life and not just in your religious gathering.

2) Respect people and keep your networks of friends for life: Before Bayo made his astounding presentation, he patiently and carefully recognised different layers of his networks who were in attendance with meticulous attention to detail and deep sense of gratitude. The event had friends from his primary to high school and even postgraduate school at the event and he warmly introduced them one by one. I really like this sense of honour!

I spoke to one of them and he said something like, "Bayo is a giver and a true source inspiration". I can imagine how important this fellow considered his friendship with Bayo that he had to travel down from Germany to grace the occasion.

3) Be proud of your source/ families where it matters most: The high point for me was when he spoke about his humble background and how his hardworking parents and family members provided the platform to where he is today. He honourably introduced his parents - first his Dad and then his 2 mums to the audience. I was initially confused about the dual mother idea until the gentleman sitting beside me told me that he was talking about his mother and mother-in-law. Great idea! The guy said he attended Bayo's wedding- so he must be right! You need to see the loving chemistry between these 2 mothers. They were in endearing chit-chat throughout the event like best of best friends. I like this! He also took time to celebrate his uncles in attendance, one flew in from Ireland and another from USA. The uncle from Ireland was like the chief host. He is a very nice man and you could see he's so proud of his nephew's achievement. He moved between guests to exchange pleasantries. Clearly Bayo has got a perfect knit family.

4) Be proud of your faith or belief alliances: This is a reinforcement of my first learning. If one's faith is worth its weight in gold, then proudly associate with people who share same with you. I admire Bayo's passion for his fellowship, TACEF. I got to know TACEF when Bayo missed a test because he had to attend the fellowship's convention. I was therefore not surprised when he took time to appreciate the role of TACEF and other members in his academic and research pursuit.

5) Celebrate your wife proudly as your 2-in-1: Bayo got himself and wife to be invited to the high table as if they were co-authors and co-PhD students. I like how he lovingly introduced his wife as someone who deserved the same honour and recognition as himself...WoW....I have not seen men who are so proud of their wives like this! When he got to the last slide of his presentation, he said and I quote, " please note that a lot of the thoughts I have shared with you are not mine alone, they are ideas of my wife and I ". This for me was another peak! The MC specially noted this in his own postmortem. Bayo is making me to believe again in marriage. I really hope we can see more men (of course with deserving women who have paid their dues) to go out of the ordinary to celebrate their wives. Bayo scored 101%!

6) My last point is deeply reflective for me as a student and as a presenter. When the time comes to shine, just SHINE! 

Bayo spoke for 21:31 minutes with every slide coming across as well researched thoughts. Bayo spoke brilliantly as a passionate presenter that he is and his models were notably original...it was so easy to appreciate the rigour and the versatility of his postulations. His slides were very academic yet he used visuals to make them more appealing and easy-to-understand. He used pictures to simplify hard facts and applied onomatopoeic words to make his points very memorable. I have now added to my knowledge Bayo Adekanmbi's integrated 3M/3P/3S model and his new terminologies like miniaturisation of needs, mutualisation of resources, connected-abundance etc. Truly, great conceptualisation is nice but I think it's much more important to package your thoughts so well like Bayo did. The thoughts were highly cerebral for the academia and yet simple to access to the novice. It was therefore not a surprise that he easily earned a resounding ovation for his brilliant masterpiece that had dual implications for academic knowledge and management practice.

Thanks Bayo and Toyin for providing a platform for me to learn. 

Myself and all Reading alumni class group are very proud of you and celebrate you. We shall keep the October date in view for the physical release in Nigeria.

Please see attached some of pictures to share the memories of a time well spent.

ARMS PROBE REPORT DOCTORED? NOT WITH THIS RAMROD STRAIGHT PRESIDENT- FEMI ADESINA

Mr Femi Adesina, Special Adviser, Media & Publicity to President Muhammadu Buhari during Sunday Politics programme on Channels TV fielded questions from Mr Seun Okinbaloye, on the state of the nation(July 17, 2016). 

Excerpts:

Q :Appointments into offices should be made on the basis of federal character, but this is not so, and many Nigeriaans have expressed concern about this.

Ans: There is some sort of spread, it may be more in some places than others. But then, you have shown the satistics and we have seen it. What I would like to say is that appointment is a process and an on-going thing. One thing you can say about this government is that it listens to feedbacks. This is a feedback, and before now, we have heard about it. The feedback, you can be sure, would be processed and it would inform things that would happen going forward. At the end of the day, every part of the country is going to be taken care of .

Q: Quite relieving, but the one that concerns most Nigerians is that largely security appointments are to the North. Is there any reason for this?

A: Well, you know when it is the turn of a person to attain a position and you say because of a certain region, you bypass him for another person, somehow you are being unfair to that person and the system, because the security system oftentimes operates on hierachy and efficiency. It is not all appointments that must be subject to federal character . There are some, like in the case of the ministers , which the constitution says each state must produce and that has been satisfied.

Q: When is the President coming up with the other appointments?

A: I remember that Chief Oyegun, APC National Chairman said the process is almost completed, what is left is to unveil it. What I would add to that is that it is the perogative of the president to make some appointments when he deems fit. And you can be sure that the appointments would come.

Q: Some Nigerians are concerned with the way the President felicitates or commiserates with other countries but we have not heard much from the president when tragedies happen in the country.

A: Well, it depends on what you choose to listen to, because it amazes me when people say that they have not heard from him. What they expect is that the president will come out to talk personally on those things. Why does the president have aides ,ministers, or other officials in government? If they have spoken on those issues, I think , it should be considered that the president has spoken. It is not necessarily the president that will speak on issues at all times.

Q: We rarely hear from your principal especially that female preacher that was murdered in Kubwa, in Abuja.

A: Recall that the wife of the vice president visited that family. That shows you that it is an important issue.

Q: We have seen issues in the country where herdsmen ravage communities and kill people in tens and hundreds and we never hear about a visit to those communities. In other lands, their presidents are always proactive but your principal rarely does that. Why?

A: Every country, every president and every home has its style, its voice and echo. We don't have to necessarily do it the way another country does it. But be assured that every Nigerian soul is precious to this president. Anytime a life is lost, it touches him. That you don't see him at that venue does not mean that it doesn't touch him. He does not have to do it as other presidents would do it. It is not a must that we follow the American template.

Q: When there is a killing, the president should be heard.

A: The president would do what is right and proper at all times.

Q: Interesting. Let me take you to other issues, like what happened in Turkey.We have heard about the issue of impeachment on President Muhammadu Buhari. Somehow, is the president thinking about tightening security within and around the nation on this kind of issue?

A: I liked the word used by Chief Oyegun about the purported impeachment. He said it was nonsensical, and that is just the word to use. He also said, it was a non event because there was nothing to it. There was no substance to it. There is no need to begin to tighten security over what does not exist, a will-o-the-wisp. I think our democracy is safe and growing and it will continue to grow.

Q: The president released some documents on the armsgate investigation and people are saying that maybe the documents have been doctored.

A: Well, except they come with the documents, they show the original, and brandish the doctored version, except they can do that, the rest is in the realm of conjecture, because anybody can sit back and just say that something has been doctored. But the onus lies on the person to show the original and the fake .

Q: Because one would be wondering during the time of General Danbazzau, he was the chief of army staff. His name is clearly missing, while others before and after him are there. Does it mean that he has been exonerated from everything?

A: The panel is not about individuals. I will say the arms probe is all about a time frame, which is being looked at. The interim report has been released and every other clarification you need will be given by the office of the NSA.

Q: People want to know if there is hidden agenda

A: You can rest assured that with this president, there is no hidden agenda. We know him to be a president that is open and transparent. Ramrod straight.

Q: Are we going to be seeing long queues as aviation fuel is now scarce or what again is happening?

A: Well, we know that things are a lot better with fuel, and it will get better, not worse. I am sure, we are not going back to those harrowing days... Not likely, except there is a major glitch in the system. I believe it will not happen.

Q; As it stands now, a lot of people are asking about the budget implementation, how far with it?

A: When the budget was passed, there was a promise to implement it as much as possible but then the unforseen variables came in. At that time, there was no bombing of installations in the south south, Avengers had not yet started .We were exporting 2.2 to 2.3 millions barrels of oil per day and it began to drop, till it got to about 1.5 million. There is now attendant revenue loss and this affected the budget. Secretary to the Federal Government says in terms of revenue , there is a 40 percent loss and all these things will affect budget performance.

Q:Has the president changed his mind on dialogue with militants?

A: Every option is on the table, and you will recall that when some leaders of the South South, led by King Alfred Diette Spiff visited, the President also disclosed that he had encouraged security agencies to dialogue with militants and the leadership of that region. So, there was never a time that anything was ruled out. Since the insurgency began, there had always been dialogue.

Q: The issue of dialogue has been talked about lately, what is the president doing right now. Are you setting up a committee, what exactly are you doing to achieve the dialogue? And when are we going to see an end to attacks on installations in the Niger Delta?

A: The latter part of your question, on when we are going to see an end to the attacks, can best be answered by the Avengers and other militant groups. But commonsense dictates that for the sake of the economy of our country, the attacks should stop because if attacks continue, revenue will dwindle, and even that region that is very rich would no longer be able to pay salaries. It will affect everyone.

10 Radical Ideas To Transform Nigeria In 10 Years

By Sam Igwe

Here are 10 public policy ideas that can be implemented within the term of the current administration using the same levels of annual government expenditure from previous administrations.

Implementation will require fortitude and a resolute will, which hopefully is in ample supply in the present administration. The results will be worth more than the effort.

The 10 Ideas in order of importance:

No.1 Collect Data, and share it. Do a proper Census:

Working without data is like working in the dark, its almost impossible to succeed. Switch the lights on. Our suspicious elite need to understand that everybody on all sides needs access to accurate data to achieve anything, there is no point hiding some data from everybody. An inescapable fact is that a proper Census must be the foundation block for the development of any meaningful political structure and economic program for the country. Do a Census without politics next year.

No.2 Build A National GIS Infrastructure:

A National Land Registry with GIS database and standardised land documentation would open up an incredible revenue source, create new industries, employment and release of capital. It can be done without tampering with existing statutes and sentiments. Categorise and delineate land into zones such as: tribal and communal land; industrial land; agricultural land; residential land etc. This .

No.3 Promote Distributed Power Networks:

This is the opposite of dependence and insistence on a National Grid for electricity generation and distribution. We already know that the installed capacity of private generators in Nigeria is over nine (9) times the power output from the PHCN National Grid. Allow those who can to source their power outside PHCN. Allow entrepreneurs to develop independent power generation and distribution plants from as little as 500Kw to supply captive communities. To support this we need to develop a comprehensive National Natural Gas pipeline Network that can be funded via a liberalised licensing policy. Include also the promotion of the development of mini-grids based on renewable energy sources.

No.4 Build Real Communication Networks:

This is at the heart of Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit. We need an integrated national communications and transport network with two main components: Broadband and Rail. Wherever there is a train line there should be a fibre cable.

Broadband Network:


Broadband via Fibre and Satellite. Fixed Wireless radio is unsuitable because the available technology has spectrum limitations and addresses mobile applications. We need broadband for fixed devices in work and living places via optical fibre to the premises backed up by satellite. The Nigcomsat debacle can still be salvaged. The current fibre connectivity to all Universities project is a great starting point, the next step is to make it viable to connect to other places.

Rail Network:

The effort by the last administration to revive rail transportation is commendable though still flawed. Nigeria’s priority should be to establish a railway station (at least) in every state capital and not the current drive to build an airport in every state. Also, the idea of building a new line from Abuja to Kaduna does not make good sense. Rail networks create huge employment and facilitate rapid development of rural areas. This should be the flagship project for this administration.

No.5 Build New Cities:

Following No.4 above, aim to turn 20 connected rural towns into 20 new cities in the next 10 years using half of the money planned to be spent on Abuja alone over the next 10 years.When consultants talk about a housing deficit of 27 million units in Nigeria, some government officials woefully interpret this as a need for more housing estates in Abuja. What we need is to build places for people who have much better use of their time and talents than chasing contracts. These modern cities should be planned for between 100,000-150,000 homes. Government would provide the necessary infrastructure, then development partners would drive the construction and development using funds sourced from subsidised market sources.

No. 6 Stop Exporting Crude Oil:

Revolutionise the petroleum and mining industry by phasing out the exportation of raw natural minerals and promote exportation of finished products. The PIB does not go far enough. Add a supplementary bill for a phased ban on export of crude oil over the next 7 years. Let the traders come and build their refineries and processing plants here in Nigeria for export markets.

No. 7 Start Social Security/National Insurance System:

There can be no argument against a social security system in Nigeria today. Petroleum subsidy is a lopsided form of social security. The important thing to note is that recipients of social security can only spend the money within the economy therefore the money from Social Security will always create a multiplier effect. Software driven Social Security is the most effective form of economic inclusion and political stability we can achieve today in Nigeria. Case study is the Amnesty Program For Militants.

No. 8 Dissolve JAMB:

The system of having one universal admissions authority for all tertiary education in Nigeria has not worked and the last thing we want is to allow Universities create their own independent entry processes. JAMB has given us garbage-in/garbage-out from Universities. Split JAMB into least two new independent examinations and university placement organisations and another body for degree accreditation different and separate from the NUC. These bodies should also regulate admission to the National Open University and other online Universities.

No.9 Create a Research and Innovations Commission:

There seems to be gaps in the process of developing results from research into innovative applications in the Nigerian market. These range from documentation, protection and enforcement of intellectual property, to marketing and funding. A research and innovations commission would have responsibility to address these gaps, monitor research institutions and help ensure an increase in the volume of intellectual output in Nigeria.

No.10 Innovate with Tax Reform:

The dilemma of the current IGR (or internal revenue generation) drive of both state and national governments is that the perception of social responsibility by the tax payer is greatly diminished because corruption inevitably consumes the taxes paid. Innovation can be introduced to use tax obligations as a driver of development. One idea would be to create a tiered colour-coded tax map of the country: Designate certain areas, cities or states as Blue;Green; or White tax zones. Blue Zones pay full Corporation and Income Tax; Green Zones get 50% discounted off; and White Zones pay zero or minimal Corporation and/or minimal Income Tax to the FIRS. For example Lagos as a Blue Zone and Minna as a Green Zone and Gombe as a White Zone.

So there it is, a strategy for waking up the slumbering giant.

These are mostly really large infrastructure projects and the obvious questions will be about who will fund. The simple answer is that the money stolen from the public purse in the last 40 years is still available in Nigeria. The generation of people who took the money are very much around. That money will fund this.

FG in talks with Niger Delta Militants - President Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday in Abuja said that his administration is talking to Niger Delta militants through oil companies and law-enforcement agencies to find a lasting solution to insecurity in the region.

Speaking at a farewell audience with Mr. Michael Zinner, the outgoing Ambassador of Germany to Nigeria at the State House, President Buhari said that government is studying the instruments of the Amnesty Programme inherited from the previous administration with a view to carrying out commitments made that were undelivered.

“We understand their feelings,” the President said. “We are studying the instruments. We have to secure the environment, otherwise investment will not come. We will do our best for the country," he affirmed.

The President used the opportunity to thank the government of Germany for its continuing support to Nigeria in the efforts to tackle insecurity and the on-going rehabilitation and resettlement of displaced citizens in crisis areas in the North-Eastern parts of the country.

President Buhari also thanked Nigeria’s neighbours for their firm and unflinching support in the war against terror.

The outgoing German Ambassador noted that bilateral relations between Nigeria and Germany “had improved very much in the last 12 months of this administration.”

He expressed the readiness of Germany to assist Nigeria in the rehabilitation process in the North East to help displaced persons return to their villages. He also expressed the eagerness of German businesses to invest in the country, now that “conditions for investment have been put in place”.

The German Ambassador reiterated the standing invitation of Chancellor Angela Merkel to President Buhari to visit Germany.

We'll explore new opportunities in gas, technology to resuscitate economy - President Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari Thursday in Abuja said his administration will continue to welcome innovative ideas in the gas, technology and agricultural sectors to reposition the economy.

Receiving the Letter of Credence of the High Commissioner of the Republic of India, Mr. Nagabhushana Reddy, at the State House, President Buhari said Nigeria will strengthen cooperation with the Asian country on education, technology transfer and military training.

``The relationship between Nigeria and India is a long one. The relationship pre-dates Nigeria's independence and as soon as we got our independence we opened a mission in New Delhi.

``Our relationship cuts across education, military, trade manufacturing and technology. I recall schooling at the Defence Services Staff College in Wellington from 1970 to 1973 and the significant role India played in establishing the Nigerian Defence Academy.

``Certainly, you are also the biggest buyer of Nigeria's crude oil today. We need more of that partnership as Nigeria tries to be more innovative in education, manufacturing and agriculture to diversify the economy,'' he said.

President Buhari said the strong relationship that had been established between Nigeria and India over the years could be further explored in creating a competitive edge, and mutual advantage for both countries in agriculture, trade and skills transfer.

In his remarks, Reddy said the Indian government was looking forward to consolidating its relationship with the Ministries of Petroleum, Agriculture, Trade and Investment, and Power, Housing and Urban Development for various projects.

The Indian High Commissioner said the Indian Chamber of Commerce had already created a Nigerian Chapter, with a view to promoting trade, especially in the energy sector.

President Buhari also received Letters of Credence from Ambassador of the Republic of Gambia, Mr. Famara Kassy Gaye; Ambassador of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, Mr. Thambirajah Reveenthiran and Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Mr. Morteza Rahimi Zarchi.

Lagos Set To Rebrand With “One Lagos” Launch

Lagos State is set to launch the “One Lagos” brand in furtherance of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s determination to drive the State’s economy using Tourism, Hospitality, Entertainment and Sports for Excellence.

In a release signed by the State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Folorunsho Folarin-Coker on Thursday, the “One Lagos” brand will showcase the true spirit of Lagos through different creative expressions while leveraging on the City’s abundant soft power and celebrating the people, places and unique heritage of Lagos.

He noted that the brand will leverage on the best of the most populous black city, the second largest film industry on the globe, the richest City in Africa and the fashion, technological, design and aviation hub in Africa, as well as promote the diverse multi-cultural heritage of Africa’s largest mega-city and showcase the vibrant energy of its people.

According to Mr. Folarin-Coker, the “One Lagos” brand was conceived to drive economic growth across all communities in Lagos by ensuring that we take advantage of our population, its density, its wealth and its culture by focusing attention on community consumption to grow and deepen Lagos tourism assets.

The Commissioner explained that activities to herald the event will commence on Wednesday 27th July and culminate in the official launch on Friday 29th July, 2016. The three-day event will feature performances by top rated musical artistes, comedy shows, cultural displays, dance competitions, fashion show and kids’ entertainment segments.

He emphasized that the celebration will be held on a monthly basis with a series of scheduled events till the actual celebration of Lagos State @ 50 and beyond.

Who Sold Nigeria To Britain For £865k in 1899?

All through the 19th century, palm oil was highly sought-after by the British, for use as an industrial lubricant for machinery. Remember that Britain was the world’s first industrialised nation, so they needed resources such as palm oil to maintain that.

Palm oil of course, is a tropical plant, which is native to the Niger Delta. Malaysia’s dominance came a century later.

By 1870, palm oil had replaced slaves as the main export of the Niger Delta, the area which was once known as the Slave Coast. At first, most of the trade in the oil palm was uncoordinated, with natives selling to those who gave them the best deals. Native chiefs such as former slave, Jaja of Opobo became immensely wealthy because of oil palm. With wealth comes influence.

However, among the Europeans, there was competition for who would get preferential access to the lucrative oil palm trade. In 1879, George Goldie (1846 – 1925, pictured above) formed the United African Company, which was modeled on the former East India Company. Goldie effectively took control of the Lower Niger River. By 1884, his company had 30 trading posts along the Lower Niger. This monopoly gave the British a strong hand against the French and Germans in the 1884 Berlin Conference. The British got the area that the UAC operated in, included in their sphere of influence after the Berlin Conference.

When the Brits got the terms they wanted from other Europeans, they began to deal with the African chiefs. Within two years of 1886, Goldie had signed treaties with tribal chiefs along the Benue and Niger Rivers whilst also penetrating inland. This move inland was against the spirit of verbal agreements that had been made to restrict the organisation’s activities to coastal regions.

By 1886, the company name changed to “The National Africa Company” and was granted a royal charter (incorporated). The charter authorized the company to administer the Niger Delta and all lands around the banks of the Benue and Niger Rivers. Soon after, the company was again renamed. The new name was “Royal Niger Company”, which survives, as Unilever, till this day.

To local chiefs, the Royal Niger Company negotiators had pledged free trade in the region. Behind, they entered private contracts on their terms. Because the (deceitful) private contracts were often written in English and signed by the local chiefs, the British government enforced them. So for example, Jaja of Opobo, when he tried to export palm oil on his own, was forced into exile for “obstructing commerce”. As an aside, Jaja was “forgiven” in 1891 and allowed to return home, but he died on the way back, poisoned with a cup of tea.

Seeing what happened to Jaja, some other native rulers began to look more closely at the deals they were getting from the Royal Nigeria Company. One of such kingdoms was Nembe, whose king, Koko Mingi VIII, ascended the throne in 1889 after being a Christian schoolteacher. Koko Mingi VIII, King Koko for short, and like most rulers in the yard, was faced with the Royal Nigeria Company encroachment. He also resented the monopoly enjoyed by the Royal Nigeria Company, and tried to seek out favourable trading terms, with particularly the Germans in Kamerun.

By 1894 the Royal Nigeria Company increasingly dictated whom the natives could trade with, and denied them direct access to their former markets.

In late 1894, King Koko renounced Christianity, and tried to form an alliance with Bonny and Okpoma against the Royal Nigeria Company to take back the trade. This is significant because while Okpoma joined up, Bonny refused. A harbinger of the successful “divide and rule” tactic.

On 29 January 1895, King Koko led an attack on the Royal Niger Company’s headquarters, which was in Akassa in today’s Bayelsa state. The pre-dawn raid had more than a thousand men involved. King Koko’s attack succeeded in capturing the base. Losing 40 of his men, King Koko captured 60 white men as hostages, as well as a lot of goods, ammunition and a Maxim gun. Koko then attempted to negotiate a release of the hostages in exchange for being allowed to choose his trading partners. The British refused to negotiate with Koko, and he had forty of the hostages killed. A British report claimed that the Nembe people ate them. On 20 February 1895, Britain’s Royal Navy, under Admiral Beford attacked Brass, and burned it to the ground. Many Nembe people died and smallpox finished off a lot of others.

By April 1895, business had returned to “normal”, normal being the conditions that the British wanted, and King Koko was on the run. Brass was fined £500 by the British, £26,825 in today’s money, and the looted weapons were returned as well as the surviving prisoners. After a British Parliamentary Commission sat, King Koko was offered terms of settlement by the British, which he rejected and disappeared. The British promptly declared him an outlaw and offered a reward of £200 (£10,730 today) for him. He committed suicide in exile in 1898.

About that time, another “recalcitrant King”, the Oba of Benin, was run out of town. The pacification of the Lower Niger was well and truly under way.

The immediate effect of the Brass Oil War was that public opinion in Britain turned against the Royal Nigeria Company, so its charter was revoked in 1899. Following the revoking of its charter, the Royal Niger Company sold its holdings to the British government for £865,000 (£46,407,250 today). That amount, £46,407,250 (NGN17,552,955,260.79 at today’s exchange rate) was effectively the price Britain paid, to buy the territory which was to become known as Nigeria.

Source: www.otimestv.com

Source:https://thewhistler.ng/story/explosive-history-who-sold-nigeria-to-britain-for-865k-in-1899#.V454i-zom0I.facebook