Business
Ex-ANAN Chief Tasks FG On Budget Passage
A former President, Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), Dr Samuel Nzekwe has advised the Federal Government to push for early passage of the 2018 budget.
Nzekwe told newsmen in Ota, Ogun, on Wednesday that the early passage of the budget would facilitate rapid infrastructure development.
He urged the National Assembly to pass the budget on time to allow the governments undertake massive infrastructure development in power, roads and rail sector in 2018.
“There is the need for the Federal Government to work according to the budget so that it could achieve most of its goals in 2018. “ he added.
Nzekwe noted that the late passage of the 2017 budget led to the non payment of local contractors and imposing hardship on the people.
The former ANAN president said that infrastructure deficit was the major problem facing the nation.
“Stable power supply and other amenities are the backbone of any nation because no economy can thrive and move forward positively without infrastructure development. “ he said.
Nzekwe also said that power supply was imperative for the nation’s industries to thrive and provide employment opportunities for youths in order to eradicate poverty in the country.
The former ANAN boss, however, implored the government to formulate people’s-oriented policies that would benefit all Nigerians in 2018.
Business
Kenyan Runners Dominate Berlin Marathons
Kenya made it a clean sweep at the Berlin Marathon with Sabastian Sawe winning the men’s race and Rosemary Wanjiru triumphing in the women’s.
Sawe finished in two hours, two minutes and 16 seconds to make it three wins in his first three marathons.
The 30-year-old, who was victorious at this year’s London Marathon, set a sizzling pace as he left the field behind and ran much of the race surrounded only by his pacesetters.
Japan’s Akasaki Akira came second after a powerful latter half of the race, finishing almost four minutes behind Sawe, while Ethiopia’s Chimdessa Debele followed in third.
“I did my best and I am happy for this performance,” said Sawe.
“I am so happy for this year. I felt well but you cannot change the weather. Next year will be better.”
Sawe had Kelvin Kiptum’s 2023 world record of 2:00:35 in his sights when he reached halfway in 1:00:12, but faded towards the end.
In the women’s race, Wanjiru sped away from the lead pack after 25 kilometers before finishing in 2:21:05.
Ethiopia’s Dera Dida followed three seconds behind Wanjiru, with Azmera Gebru, also of Ethiopia, coming third in 2:21:29.
Wanjiru’s time was 12 minutes slower than compatriot Ruth Chepng’etich’s world record of 2:09:56, which she set in Chicago in 2024.