Mr. President is on course, says Odubote

http://m.guardian.ng/features/mr-president-is-on-course-says-odubote/

Mr. President is on course, says Odubote

By SEYE OLUMIDE   |   30 May 2016   |   2:01 am 

Odubote

A year after the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by President Muhammadu Buhari took control of government, Mr. Lanre Odubote, a former member of the House of Representatives, who represents Epe Federal Constituency, Lagos State scores the government high as he also dispelled insinuations of possible implosion in the party. SEYE OLUMIDE reports.

One year of APC in government

As we celebrate one year success of the APC’s administration under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari, it is also important to discuss those factors that made it possible for the merger of four different political parties and subsequent defeat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2015 general election.

We are not only celebrating the achievements of Buhari and the APC, we should also be happy for the fact that despite all fears of likely disintegration of the country before the 2015 elections, insinuations that the merger would fail and the series of war the former ruling party waged against the AC, we are celebrating a success story today.

The credit of the APC’s merger must first and foremost go to every Nigerians who supported the course and backed it up in their prayers. It is also important to give kudos to all the leaders of the party for the selfless roles and the risk they took to make APC a reality. One year of APC’s in government is something that has never happened before in the history of Nigeria that an opposition party ousted a government in power.

But I must say that what we are celebrating today started in the seventh House of Representatives, led by Alhaji Taminu Tambuwal when majority of the members of the lower chamber across political party divide supported him to become the Speaker against Mulikat Akande, who was the preferred choice of the PDP controlled government.

All the lawmakers of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) as well as some from the All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP), Congress for Progressives Change (CPC) and a faction of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and others formed an alliance to support Tambuwal. It was the development that sent a very strong signal to all the leaders of the opposition parties, to the extent that the leaderships of the parties got convinced that if it could happen in the House then they can also fused to end the 16 years rule of the PDP.

APC and popularity challenges

Many people have faulted the policies of the APC-led government while others believed the damages done to the country as at the time it took over power were enormous. The truth is the government is doing everything possible to revamp all sectors of the country that have been destroyed under the past administration and that would take time.

Insinuation of internal crisis in the party that may affect government performance

In party politics there are bound to be grievances and disagreement among but what is important is how the leadership of the party manage the issues.

Few days after the Buhari’s inauguration, we have a leadership crisis in the National Assembly led by Dr. Bukola Saraki and Yakubu Dogara in the Senate and House respectively. I must say the development generated a lot of dust and doubts about the likelihood of the APC imploding but the leadership of the party, in their wisdom, has been able to manage and douse the situation.

The question we should consider is whether the APC controlled National Assembly is living up to the expectation and its responsibilities, if it is, then business continue. To the best of my knowledge, as a member of the party the internal activities of the party, a year after has been very coherent.

President Buhari is carrying the party and its leadership along. I do not see it imploding as people are already insinuating.

Alleged marginalization of the South and some key leaders of APC by President Buhari

What all the actors that formed the party craved for was good governance and the interest of the masses, which Buhari has sworn to do and he is already doing that going by what has done in one year.

Do you think the Fulani cabals have hijacked Buhari as currently being insinuated?

Has any of the party leaders came out to complain that something sinister is happening? Lies, rumour and propagandas are part of politics, as a matter of fact it is allowed. As a reporter go and do your homework I make bold to say that all the leaders of the party today are helping Buhari to build this country.

What we are facing in this country is not about individuals’ interest. It is not about Asiwaju, Abubakar Atiku or anybody but the lives of estimated 170 million people.

Total Filling Station celebrates Childrens day with children

Today went galore as the Manager of Total filling station ijebu ode, Epe garage  marks the celebration with children from the community far and near.

The celebration was fully entertaining as the kids met with new friends in very educating competition, also dancing and lots more were on ground to fill the hearts of the children. Also the kids had their fill with snacks and soft drinks and as well lots of gifts were won.

The Manager said its a tradition of the company to give back to the society even in the state of the economy. Also the managers of other outskirt stations were on ground to witness it.

Our Lady of Apostles secondary school students.

A Competition going on between Children.

LAGOS INTRODUCES NEW VEHICLES TO REPLACE DANFOS.

LAGOS INTRODUCES NEW VEHICLES TO REPLACE DANFOS.

The Lagos state government has unveiled new modern buses it wants to use to replace and phase out danfo and molues in the state.

 The buses are expected to be cheaper and durable and the government advised danfo bus owners to key into the project now before it is too late.

The commissioner for transportation, Dr. Dayo Mobereola said the scheme would see to the introduction of higher capacity buses that would have 30 seats as opposed to 14/18 seats, while the buses would be Eco – friendly, air-conditioned, comfortable, support for maintenance and backed by appropriate workshop which creates jobs.

Mobereola said with the introduction of the new mode of transportation, danfo buses would be displaced economically as Lagosians would be left to choose between very cheaper means of transportation and expensive danfos.

The commissioner said Lagosians would rather queue up to board buses at cheaper rate than what the danfos would offer, thus, displacing them economically, adding that some of the existing danfo drivers had already keyed into the project.

He said the National Union of Road Transport Workers had already given government its support for the project. 

I'm beginning to think Ambode existence will supersede Fashola reign

Another Chibok girl found

Lolz

Democracy Jollification galore.

Nexzy in the building to make the scene a glamorous one

TROPHY BOTTLE THE HONOURABLE collaborated with B2R ENTERTAINMENT presents DEMOCRACY JOLLIFICATION @ TOP ONE GARDEN podo new garage ibadan ...... performing artistes LKT ALAYE MI, ADEKUNLE GOLD, SMALL DOCTOR, NEXZYB, MC ABMAN, DJ PYMIX and others invited ARTISTES on SUNDAY 29th of MAY,2016 .... 12noon till 11:59pm

 hip-hop things 12am till dawn FUJI things

Wow ! Fourth main land bridge to be completed in Three years.

Ladies and Gentlemen, today, Lagos State is recording another major milestone in it’s almost 50years of existence. We have just signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the 4th Mainland Bridge. The 38km bridge and expressway will become the longest bridge and expressway anywhere when completed.

The significance of this bridge will be fully appreciated if we can imagine Lagos of today without the 3rd Mainland Bridge. Almost Thirty years after the delivery of the 3rd Mainland Bridge; the State has experienced phenomenal growth to become a megalopolis – a city-State with a population of over 21 million people.  The increase in the State’s population and expanded commercial activity has led to frequent traffic congestion. This has made it imperative for us to have a 4th Mainland Bridge that will serve as an alternative route to the Eastern axis and decongest traffic in the State.

More importantly this bridge will provide the required transportation compliment to the rapidly growing industrial activities on the Eti-Osa - Lekki - Epe corridor of the State. 

The proposed alignment passes through Lekki, Langbasa and Baiyeiku towns along the shoreline of the Lagos Lagoon estuaries, further running through Igbogbo River Basin and crossing the Lagos Lagoon estuaries to Itamaga Area in Ikorodu. It then crosses the Itoikin road and the Ikorodu - Sagamu Road to connect Isawo inward Lagos Ibadan Expressway at Ojodu Berger axis. The Bridge would be made up of 8 interchanges to facilitate effective interconnectivity between different parts of the State.

Man who is to undergo appendix surgery dies hours after asking his facebook friends to pray for him (photos)

Man who is to undergo appendix surgery dies hours after asking his facebook friends to pray for him (photos)

Abubakar Attahiru is dead. He died after informing his friends on facebook that he is on admission – about to undergo surgery to remove his appendix. On May 17^th, Abubakar wrote; “Folks, your friend is now on admission for appendectomy (surgical removal of appendix). Your prayers are needed, please.”

Barely 24 hours later his post, sympathizers thronged his page to inform his fans that he has passed on.  It is still unknown if he died as a result of the appendix. May his soul rest in peace. See more of his pics below;

NLC has failed us, Wait, only 15 people turned out for NLC protest in Kano?

NLC has failed us, Wait, only 15 people turned out for NLC protest in Kano?

The people you see above are supposed to be the Nigerian Labour Congress in Kano chapter protesting the recent fuel hike by the Federal Government. No media to even capture the protest…they had to do it themselves. I had to count because the number is so minuscule. Does this mean that NLC is dead in Kano? See another photo below;

Nigerian Bride Shares Pictures Of How Money Rained At Her Traditional Marriage

Nigerian Bride Shares Pictures Of How Money Rained At Her Traditional Marriage

Earlier today, a  bride on Instagram shared pictures from her traditional marriage which took place in Imo State and the photos have got tongues wagging seriously.
Well its not a bad idea since Nigeria ain't got policies that are " walk the talk "

WARNING! Killer Tomato Paste Imported Into Nigeria?

WARNING! Killer Tomato Paste Imported Into Nigeria?

The House of Reps has alerted Nigerians on the alleged existence of cancer-causing tomato pastes imported into Nigeria by unscrupulous people, with a promised to unmask those behind the dastardly act.

The House has therefore mandated its Committee on Health Services, Drug and Narcotics to investigate the alleged importation of the said fake, substandard and cancerous products into the country with a view to identifying them, their importers as well as promoters and distributors.

It is alleged that they've circulated the nation's market with the products at cheap prices.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion under matters of urgent public importance moved on the floor of the House on Wednesday by Hon Ossai Nicholas Ossai.

Hon Osai while referring to a publication in a national newspaper of May 9, 2016, alleged that there was a cabal who had boasted that nothing could stop them from importing the fake tomato paste.

According to him, "this ugly development of importation of cancer infested tomato paste is killing a lot of Nigerians and it is reported that this mafia group is collaborating with few indigenous manufacturers in Nigeria who are being used as a cover up to distribute the killer products."

The motion was unanimously passed with the committees given three weeks to report back.

Charly Boy had 7 kids from away matches? Find out more in interview with his wife, Diane Oputa

Charly Boy had 7 kids from away matches? Find out more in interview with his wife, Diane Oputa

Social media titan Babalola Osogbiye dug out the dead bonesin an interview with wife of the latest Marriage counselor “Charly Boy”. An enlighteninginterview that reveals the ups and the downs of the marriage life of the coupleand how they have been able to pull through 38 years without being a subject ofmedia. Words are not enough to give details of the interview, readmore after the cut...

She is married to one of Nigerians most controversial iconicpersonalities. The "weird" one Charly Boy has fought for the rightsof the average Nigerian. He has on several occasions been tortured by theNigerian police and the military for standing up to bad leadership or unfairtreatment of the impoverished masses. His television series, The CharlyBoy Show was one of the most watched programmes for a very long time. He’san accomplished singer/songwriter, television presenter, publisher,producer and talent judge.

The American trained mass communication masters degreeholder, who decided in his own words, to punish his parents by creating thelarger than life image. A punk, a boy, an AreaFada, and lately a Jesus lover.He has been married three times before, his present marriage is the 4th andmaybe the last, kissed Denrele Edun, has a pet python was photographednaked. That pretty much sums it up, from a shallow point of view. One personwho knows this enigma would be his wife of 38yrs the best person to giveintimate account. Lady Diane Oputa.

38yrs SEEMS LIKE FOREVER IN COMPARISON TO THELIFE SPAN OF THE AVERAGE CELEBRITY MARRIAGE. HOW HAVE YOU MANAGED ?

I have been able to manage very well because of the man Igot married to. Charles is a strong family man, a decent gentleman who puts hisfamily first before anything else. He has been a wonderful husband, a goodfather and a wonderful son to his parents. Charles is the husband every womandreams about. He is sensitive, he listens, the first to apologize if he iswrong. I love his never say die spirit. I think we were ordained by God tomarry each other because we both want the same thing, we are both committed toour marriage. Like they say, it takes two to tango. However our marriage hasnot been a bed of roses, we have our issues and challenges, but because we arebest of friends, because we are loyal to our commitment we always resolvewhatever issue that comes up, to move forward. We don't have a perfectmarriage, no such thing in this world, but we have a friendship that hasendured through time.  It has been a long journey and we have had upsand downs within the 38years that we have been together. But we are happytogether. A lot of couples haven't got that far-we are really privileged. Ithank God.

WHAT HAS BEEN THE HARD PART OF YOUR UNION? , THETHINGS THAT MADE YOU MAD.

In the beginning it was the women, my gosh! Womeneverywhere. Charles is a charmer. He had 7kids from his away matches and thewomen he married that didn't work out, before we got married. His stubbornnesswas sometimes obnoxious. During his hay days as a performer, his acts weresometimes so overboard that I will refuse doing his background vocals and wealways argued/quarreled about that. But as the years rolled by I found ways ofcalming him down, and curing my high blood pressure. I later found outthat the women were more for his hypes and pons, like the charly’s virgins. Onething I knew from the beginning was that my husband always wanted to be a familyman, after all he grew up seeing both parents together for sixty somethingyears before papa passed on. Much later the women thing totally fizzled out. Inthe beginning I wasn't too sure how to deal with all his children from deferentwomen, but trust charles he knows how to put his family together. That's how Iovernight became a mother of 9 children plus my last three. The only thing thathe still does that pisses me off till tomorrow is his silence, when he is angryabout something. He will lock himself in his room and may not talk to me fordays. I can't deal with that because we talk all the time our communication ison point. He always says he doesn't want to say the wrong things when he isangry. Otherwise, Charles is the best thing to happen to me and I thank God forthat.

WHY DO YOU THINK CELEBRITIES MARRIAGES HAVESHORT LIFE SPAN?

Celebs marriages are not different from any other marriage,however, the bottom-line is that both parties have to know what they want fromthe start. For most young people it's about the packaging and never thecontent. Marriage is about two people who want to stay married no matter theweather, if one person wants it more than the other it won't work. Theingredients for a fairly decent marriage, will be mutual respect, goodcommunication between the couples and good friendship. Thank God that todaywhat we have most, is old fashion friendship. My husband is not your typical Nigerianperson, above all he listens and he is very sensitive to how I am feeling as myfriend and it's all mutual.

HAS YOUR TRUST FOR HIM EVER WOBBLED?

Yes, in the beginning the first maybe 8yrs, too many dramathat I was dealing with. It wasn't easy at all but I also matured along theway. I began to see things for what they really are not for what it lookedlike. Experience has thought me how to separate the boy Charly from my man Charles.Charly is an incorrigible botton pusher and that will never stop, but my manCharles is also an incorrigible introvert and that's who I married. A few timeshe has reported himself to me and he is not good at lying. BEING FULFILLED INMARRIAGE IS GUARANTEED WHEN YOUR SPOUSE IS SUPPORTIVE, UNDERSTANDING ANDSENSITIVE TO YOUR FEELINGS AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, WHEN HE IS ALWAYS LOOKING FORCREATIVE WAYS TO KEEP THE FIRE BURNING.

YOUR HUSBAND IS NOW A MARRIAGE COUNSELOR OFSORT, HOW DOES HE COPE GIVING UP HIS PERSONAL NUMBER TO FANS WHO HAVE MARRIAGEPROBLEMS?

Yea, that's Charlyboy for you, who else would give theirpersonal number on air. Do you know how many calls he receives per minute? Hehowever has been doing all of that for a very long time, it's only recently hewent ballistic with that. I guess for him, he wants to always feel useful,always wanting to teach, to share, to give hope to the hopeless, that'scharlyboys story, aside the fact that he likes to confuse people with hisantics. Am I surprised? no. I won't be surprised if tomorrow he opens a church.Charles has always been spiritual ever since I met him, very deep. That's whyfor people who meet him one on one, they are so charmed because he is nothinglike charlyboy puts out. And it takes intelligence and discipline to know theboundaries. He has counselled and inspired millions of nigerian youths, to bethemselves, be focused and never to let anyone kill their dream. I love him forthe many lives he has touched and still touching, for all who worked with him,they too can testify he added value to their lives. That's who he is. 

 IT’S ALMOST GOING TO 4DECADES OF MARRIAGE WHATKEEPS THE FIRE BURNING?

Hummm!!!! Charly can be un unrepentant romantic when hewants to be. Though he hasn't pulled any stunt to sweep me off my feetrecently, but he can be full of surprises. The last time, he asked me to escorthim to the airport to receive a certain business partner from the carribean.Before I knew what was happening, I was on my way to the Bahamas, sweden andDubai, with nothing but my purse. He knows I love romance and from time to timehe figures ways to sweep me off my feet. That's why we try to keep it asyouthful and as fresh as we can. We really work at it. It's not easy but we aredetermined. Charles woos me with his outlandish and elaborate stunts, and Ilike it. I always look forward to my birthdays. We are like two buddies.

RESENT REPORT SAYS HE HAS BECOME MORE RELIGIOUSAND HAS FINALLY BECOME BORN AGAIN?

Charles has always been spiritual, has always given himselfto service. He has always been an inspiration to millions of frustratednigerian youths. His life style has made thousands chase their own dreams andnever gave up on theirselves. Yes, people where not too sure what to make ofhim, because he kept confusing people who couldn't see the humour or the sensein how he was putting out. He has always been about how he can add value to hisenvironment and the people he meets. He may not have been a regular church goerbut was a Christian by his actions. I guess the difference now is that thepress seems to be reporting more of his works and the value he promotes thanall the stunts he pulls to keep the people guessing. But yes he is more calmernow, more at peace now and more spiritual. Like they say, there is a time andseason for everything. He is been there done that and seen that, what else canbe new for him so I guess is Jesus time from here on and that's all the betterfor him. He is doing what God wants him to do.

NLC workers allegedly harass, insult and molest Lagos state govt workers for not joining strike action

Photos: NLC workers allegedly harass, insult and molest Lagos state govt workers for not joining strike action

NLC Protesters this afternoon forced their way into the Lagos state government secretariat in Alausa, Ikeja to harass and disturb government workers who are not participating in the ongoing strike action.

The state government yesterday released a statement warning all its workers to shun the strike as the "No work no pay rule" will be applied for anyone who failed to show up for work.

Photo: Buhari receives rescued Chibok girl, Amina Nkeki and her baby, Safiya

Photo: Buhari receives rescued Chibok girl, Amina Nkeki and her baby, Safiya

Pres. Buhari met Amina, her baby, her mum and others at the State House in Abuja this afternoon. More photos after the cut..

How True? Davido's Babymama Bounced From Her Daughter's Birthday Party

How True? Davido's Babymama Bounced From Her Daughter's Birthday Party

I'm hoping this is not true, because you shouldn't be enemies with a lady you slept with who gave birth to a child for you. It is wrong not to marry a woman you got pregnant in the first place, but if things fell apart between the two of you, you guys should remain friends, at least for the sake of the child.

Sadly, according to NET, Sophie Momodu was ‘bounced’ from the birthday party of her daughter, Imade on Sunday at her grandfather’s residence at Esther Adeleke Street, Lekki Phase 1, Lagos.

That's the problem with all these babymama of a thing...it takes maturity to manage it!

TRAGEDY! Husband & Wife Fight Lead To Their Baby's Death

TRAGEDY! Husband & Wife Fight Lead To Their Baby's Death

Fight is a wrong approach to resolve conflict, in fact in most cases it causes more problems for you. Sadly, we have another classical example of the dangers of a couple fighting.

A barber simply identified as Chinedu, has accidentally killed his baby after a fight erupted between him and his wife last Thursday Morning.

It happened that there was a minor issue, which escalated to the man and his wife exchanging blows...

As this was going on, the woman carried their three months old baby, thinking that at least this will subside his husband’s anger. But the worst came out of that decision as the baby hit his head, while the mum was evading another punch from the husband.

This unfortunate incident happened at Umuchima, in Owerri West area of Imo State. Umuchima is one of the villages, where off-campus lodges are located in Imo State, for students of Federal University of Technology, Owerri and students of Federal Polytechnic Nekede.

Indigenes alerted the Vigilante Group who arrested the husband. As the man was being questioned, he was shedding tears, after the result of their fight dawned on him.

The man said he regrets marrying his wife, that she lies a lot and doesn't take care of his things at home.

The benefits of consuming Tiger Nuts

Many people consume Tiger nut without knowing anything about the health benefits they derive from it. Some will say 'why do I need to know?' You do need to know because it gives you the opportunity to critically analyse what you feed your body with and check if the benefits are what your body really needs.

Tiger nut often called 'Aya' by the Hausas, 'imumu' by the yoruba, 'Aki awusa' by the Igbos, 'Chufa' in ghana, botanically 'Cyperus esculentus var. sativa' is a small tuber about a pea-size and in addition to its look, its hard texture and a taste like coconut, it is often referred to as nuts.

Tiger nuts contains a lot of amazing antioxidants from minerals such as phosphorous and potassium to vitamins E and C, in addition to the very high fibre content in it thus making it quite beneficial to diabetics and  serving as a good protection from colon cancer. It also contains a very high content of oleic acid making it very heart-friendly thus preventing heart attacks and thrombosis (blood clots).
The very high fibre content in addition to it delicious sweet taste and colour  makes tiger nuts ideal for healthy eating and a perfect replacement for confectionaries. This nutty low-calorie snack is ideal for people on a weight loss diet.

Therefore consider adding tiger nuts to your list of snacks, look at tiger nuts in a new light when next you pass by a street tiger nut vendor and remember all these unique characteristics it possesses

1. The fiber content of tiger nut is higher than other often-suggested sources of fiber, such as oat bran, rice bran, peaches, cabbage, pears, apple, carrots, jack beans and chia seeds. This quality makes it great for weight loss.

2. Tiger nut is highly nutritious. If you have one time eaten tiger nuts, you can surely attest to this.

3. Tiger nuts aids digestion

4. Tiger nut milk also called (Horchata de Chufas) is particularly good for people suffering from lactose intolerance.Tiger nuts do not contain lactose meaning people with lactose intolerance can also eat or drink the milk from this nut. It is also high in calcium, which the Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institute of Health defines as a bone building and growth supporting mineral.Drinking the juice without sugar is a particular value in constipation.

How to make Tiger-Nut milk

Steps:

With 180g of dried tiger nut, 1 liter of water and any citrus fruit; properly clean the nuts, remove the spoilt nuts and dirty objects.
Wash tiger nuts and soak for 24 hours just like the way sorghum is soaked for preparing Kunu, change the water 2-3 times to avoid smelling, drain well and blend in your blender.

Blend it with any citrus fruit of your choice preferably lemon, add half of the water and allow to stand for 20 minutes - sieve twice, bottle and serve cold. you can add blackstrap molasses .

5. Tiger nuts can help control your blood pressure. Tiger nuts are high in amino acids most especially arginine. like Viagra,for both men and women, it increases blood flow to all areas of the body.

6. Tiger nuts are also useful for breast-feeding mothers. For enough breast milk production, nursing mothers should eat enough tiger nuts. It helps produce more breast milk, and delivers all the nutritional benefits to help baby grow strong and healthy and in one step, reducing the scorge of malnutrition.

Do you need more energy, want to keep the tummy down, need a great colon cleanser, needs a system detoxifier, reduce your chances of getting prostate cancer for men? why not try Tiger nuts!

Tiger nut is free of cholesterol but contains 2.9 grams of sodium, so, it should be eaten in moderation by the people with blood group ‘O’.

GET THE FULL DETAILS: Saraki was Collecting Salary for 4 Years after Leaving Office as Governor

GET THE FULL DETAILS: Saraki was Collecting Salary for 4 Years after Leaving Office as Governor

This one na gobe! Embattled Senate President Bukola Saraki was receiving monthly salaries from Kwara state government even after he left office and became a senator, Mr Michael Wetkas, a top detective with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), further revealed.

While giving his testimony at the Code of Conduct Tribunal on Wednesday, Wetkas disclosed that Saraki was receiving monthly salaries from June 2011, when he left office as governor of Kwara state, to as far as August 2015 while he was a senator.

See the full details below...
“In the course of our investigation, we wrote to Access Bank for them to give us details of the salary account of the defendant. The salary that was coming into the account was N254,212 as of 1 August 2007.

“As of June 3, 2011, the salary was N291,124. On July 4, there was another payment with the narration Kwara State Government (KSG) June 2011 salary. The amount was N572,286.

“On August 29,2011, there was another payment in the sum of N744,002 from the Kwara state government.

“On September 29,2011 there was another payment of N743, 942 with the narration salary payment from KSG.

“On October 27, 2011, there was another payment of N1, 165, 468 for salary.

“In November 2011, there was payment of the same amount. The narration was December pension.

“On February 1, 2012, there was payment of the same amount with the narration for pension.

“The salary payments stopped in this account on August 13, 2015. The defendant left office on May 29, 2011, he became senator in the same year.”

Wetkas had earlier detailed how Saraki allegedly used fictitious names to launder Billions of Naira.

How SMEs Can Access Debt, Equity Financing Seamlessly, by Stanbic IBTC Bank

How SMEs Can Access Debt, Equity Financing Seamlessly, by Stanbic IBTC Bank

Capital is the single most important factor necessary for the sustainable growth of small and medium scale enterprises, head, SME Banking, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr. Obinna Ukachukwu, has said.

He gave this clarification at the 2016 Global Possibilities Summit of Inspired Woman of Worth (iWOW) network which held in Lagos, recently.

Ukachukwu, who was a guest speaker and panelist at the summit, spoke on ‘How to Find, Create, Manage, Grow and Keep Real Money for your Business’. 

He said without capital it would be difficult for any business to attract finance or investment. He defined capital as the value of and the history behind a business. According to him, if a promoter of a business does not know the value of the business, it is very unlikely that any investor or financier will be comfortable committing their money because the equity or debt investor is bringing in money in exchange for value.

“If you don’t know the value of your business then you do not expect a debt investor to put in his money,” Ukachukwu said. He, however, assured that Stanbic IBTC Bank continues to work with operators in the SME sector, particularly through capacity building and information sharing, to ensure they build capital. He explained that the value of a business can be determined if the proper structures, such as proper book keeping, annual reports, tax returns, auditor’s report, and record of banking transactions, which form the history of the business, have been put in place. 

He therefore encouraged business owners and entrepreneurs to engage the services of professionals to ensure the right structures are in place. “When you have generated capital, you have determined your business’ worth, you then need someone to attest to that in form of documentations, whether it is your banker, your auditor or your tax man. Having these in place will make it easier for you to attract debt or equity financing,” Ukachukwu stated.

He expressed confidence that Stanbic IBTC Bank will continue to assist the growth of micro, small and medium scale enterprises through targeted product and service offerings. According to him, the Stanbic IBTC SME seminars and the Virtual Business Centre (BizDirect) are two of the bank’s interventions to help build capacity and share needed information. 

Stanbic IBTC Bank is a subsidiary of Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC, a full service financial services group with a clear focus on three main business pillars - Corporate and Investment Banking, Personal and Business Banking and Wealth Management. 

Standard Bank Group, to which Stanbic IBTC Holdings belongs, is rooted in Africa with strategic representation in 20 key sub-Saharan countries and other emerging markets; Standard Bank has been in operation for over 151 years and is focused on building first-class on-the-ground financial services organisations in chosen countries in Africa and connecting other selected emerging markets to Africa and to each other.

SEE GOBE: Naija Lady Gives Her Lover 280k to Marry Her, but He Got Another Girl Pregnant

SEE GOBE: Naija Lady Gives Her Lover 280k to Marry Her, but He Got Another Girl Pregnant

Any relationship where money is the focal point will collapse like a park of cards, only a matter of time.

29yrs old Chukwuemeka Obodozie has been arrested and charged before a Magistrate’s court sitting in Ejigbo, Lagos, for allegedly obtaining N280,000 from his lover, Ogechi Obinma, under the false pretence that he would engage her and they get married.

The money was said to be part of their bargain to get married. But why did she fall so cheaply?

According to Ogechi, Chukwuemeka told her he needed money to clear goods that his elder brother sent to him from abroad, to enable them perform an introduction and traditional marriage. Unknown to her, Chukwuemeka had perfected plans to dump her and marry the woman he had already impregnated.

When Ogechi later went to his house, she saw a woman heavily pregnant and when she asked to know who she was, Chukwuemeka confessed that he impregnated the woman and needed money to take care of her and that was why he demanded the money from her.

He asked her to forget the money and see it as a prize she had to pay for their relationship that lasted for over two years. Ogechi accepted her fate but requested that Chukwuemeka paid her money in full as she would not be responsible for the finance of his marriage.

When she insisted, Chukwuemeka reportedly threatened to kill her, he threatened her at her house and office in Ikotun area of Lagos.

The matter was reported to the police at Ikotun and Chukwuemeka was arrested and charged to court with obtaining money under false pretence and threat to life.

When he was arraigned, as usual he pleaded not guilty.

The presiding Magistrate, Mrs J.O.E Adeyemi granted Chukwuemeka bail in the sum of N100,000 with two sureties in like sum. The case has been adjourned till April 18, 2016.