newsheadline247 - Page 191 of 1731

Nigeria’s Customs Boss, Bashir Adeniyi, Elected Chairperson of World Customs Organization

newsheadline247

-

June 28, 2025

Nigeria’s Customs Boss, Bashir Adeniyi, Elected Chairperson of World Customs Organization

In a landmark achievement for Nigeria and the Africa Customs community, Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has been formally elected as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council. His tenure begins on July 1, 2025.

The election was confirmed during the 145th/146th Sessions of the WCO Council held in Brussels, Belgium, under the outgoing Chairperson Mr. Edward Kieswetter, Commissioner of the South African Revenue Service. The WCO Council comprises the heads of 186 Customs administrations worldwide and serves as the apex decision-making body of the organization.

Expressing his appreciation after the endorsement, Mr. Adeniyi said: “I am deeply grateful for my election as Chairperson of the Council. I want to acknowledge the exceptional work of my predecessor, whose guidance and stability provided strong leadership for the Council. Specifically, I hope to build on the progress made so far in the development of the Strategic Plan for 2025–2028 and I look forward to working with the Secretariat and the Vice-Chairs towards its diligent implementation and WCO modernisation.”

The Secretary General of the WCO, Mr. Ian Saunders, congratulated the Nigerian Customs chief on his new role, describing it as timely for the organization’s next phase of transformation.

“My deepest congratulations go to Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi on his election as Council Chairperson, and I look forward to engaging closely with him as we work to ensure the WCO is fit to navigate the evolving global Customs landscape,” Saunders said. “I would also like to express my appreciation to Mr. Edward Kieswetter during his tenure, where the WCO’s modernization plan evolved from concept to delivery.”

During the session, the Council also appointed new regional Vice-Chairs for the Europe Region (United Kingdom) and the East and Southern Africa Region (South Africa), marking a strategic reshuffling at the global leadership level of the organization.

As Chairperson, Mr. Adeniyi will play a critical role in convening and guiding the collective decisions of the WCO Council — steering its direction, mediating diverse member perspectives, and ensuring coherence in its activities in line with global Customs trends and modernisation goals.

His election represents a significant milestone for Nigeria, as it positions the country at the center of global Customs policymaking and cooperation. Read More

Kwara Wins 2025 National School Debate — Lawal Olohungbebe Hails Gov. AbdulRazaq’s Bold Education Reforms

Lukman Omikunle

-

June 28, 2025

0

Kwara Wins 2025 National School Debate — Lawal Olohungbebe Hails Gov. AbdulRazaq’s Bold Education Reforms

“The current administration, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (CON), has prioritised the total transformation of public education in Kwara” – Dr. Olohungbebe

Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, Kwara State Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, admiring the 2025 National Debate Trophy won by his State

Kwara Wins 2025 National School Debate — Lawal Olohungbebe Hails Gov. AbdulRazaq’s Bold Education Reforms

Kwara State has achieved a historic milestone by emerging as the overall winner of the 2025 President’s Senior School Debate Competition — the first time the state has ever claimed the national title in the event’s 26-year history.

The prestigious debate, held from June 24 to 27 in Abeokuta, Ogun State, featured elite school teams from across Nigeria. Kwara’s team triumphed over strong contenders in multiple knockout rounds, with Rivers State falling in the final round.

Welcoming the victorious students on Friday, the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, attributed the landmark win to the transformative education reforms championed by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.

“The current administration, under the leadership of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (CON), has prioritised the total transformation of public education in Kwara,” Dr. Olohungbebe said. “This victory is a clear sign that those efforts are yielding positive results.”

He described the success as a collective triumph for the state, applauding the roles played by teachers, principals, debate coaches, and the Ministry’s leadership.

“This is a victory not just for the students, but for everyone who has contributed to the growth of education in our state,” he added. “We deeply appreciate the dedication and resilience of our teachers. Their hard work made this achievement possible.”

Encouraging the students to continue their pursuit of excellence, the commissioner described them as “worthy ambassadors of Kwara State.”

The winning debate team, led by teacher Babatunde Amina Idowu, includes four exceptional students: Moshood Kamaldeen of Government Secondary School, Ilorin; AbdulAzeez Aishat of Nawarudeen Secondary School, Offa; AbdulAzeez Mutasir of St. Anthony Secondary School, Ilorin; and Usman Maryam Enyo of Ilorin Grammar School.

The victory underscores Kwara’s rising profile in national academic competitions and reflects the impact of sustained investment in public education under the AbdulRazaq-led administration.

Family in Fear: Three Years After Brother’s Murder, Rafeeu Lawal Says Cultists Are Targeting His Wife and Children

newsheadline247

-

June 28, 2025

0

Three years after his brother was killed in a Mile 12 cult clash, Rafeeu Lawal says he and his family face renewed death threats from suspected cult members. He has fled the country while his wife and children remain in danger

Rafeeu Lawal surrounded by his wife and daughters

Family in Fear: Three Years After Brother’s Murder, Rafeeu Lawal Says Cultists Are Targeting His Wife and Children

Barely three years after his brother was slain in a bloody cult clash at Mile 12, Lagos, Mr. Rafeeu Lawal has issued a gutting plea, and suspected cult members are now targeting the lives of his wife and children.

According to Rafeeu, he and his family have been living in fear following the tragic clash involving cults. “For several years now, my family and I have been experiencing fear due to the menace posed by cults, which has caused us serious emotional trauma,” Rafeeu told our reporter while in hiding.

Sulaiman, a former chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Mile 12 chairman of Lagos State Park and Management, was killed in a cult-related fight, which Rafeeu insists “had political undertones.”

Rafeeu narrated the moment his brother was attacked, “On May 29, 2022, which was a public holiday, I went to my brother’s office in Mile 12 to see him and discuss family matters. While I waited in his reception area, a group of people I now suspect belong to a cult entered the office. I overheard a heated argument… A video later made public shows my brother being attacked, and I subsequently saw the same suspects commit a lethal assault that caused his death. I can identify the suspects and believe they are members of an organized violent group operating in Mile 12.”

Rafeeu says the threats escalated after his family was accused of reporting cult activities to law enforcement — a charge that, he claims, made them a target.

“They alleged that some members of our family always report their criminal activities to law enforcement agents… With this, the cult group advertently launched a campaign of attack and violence against our family,” he said.

He recounted being followed, physically attacked, and forced to relocate multiple times — from Ikorodu to Ota, then to Ijesha in Surulere, and later to the northern part of the country for safety. Those moves did not stop the harassment.

“In June 2024, I received direct death threats by phone from an unfamiliar number. I reported to the divisional police office at Ijesha and the RRS at Ikeja to track the number. In the Extract from Police Crime Diary, seen by newsheadline247, Rafeeu stated that “the threatening become (sic) so consistent both on phone and physical on him and his family,” adding that he subsequently reported the matter to the Ijeshatedo Police Station and Special Police Squad.

“Two days later I received another snuff video depicting the killing of another individual. This video was deliberately sent to me as a threat, indicating that I could be the next target,” Rafeeu said.

Despite his absence, Rafeeu says the threats have not stopped — and have now focused squarely on his loved ones.

“The lives of my wife and children are in danger. I thought these people would back off if they don’t see me around again, but now they have turned to my family while I am away. No one to turn to for protection — I am helpless,” he sobbed over the phone.

He claims to have reported incidents to local police and anti-cult squads, but says he still lacks confidence that adequate protection will be provided.

“Out of fear I left Ikorodu and relocated… but despite the change of location, I noticed my movement was monitored, traced, and I was later physically attacked by some of their associate cult members,” he said, describing how even relocation failed to keep him safe.

The story of the Lawal family lays bare the human toll when organised cult violence, criminal elements and rival transport unions collide. Sulaiman’s death was not only a traumatic loss — it appears to have marked his remaining family for retribution.

“When I was discharged from the clinic after that attack, friends and family advised me to stay clear of the environment. Yielding to this advice, I left my family and relocated… with the hope that I am their only target,” he said. “But they are now targeting my family.” Read More

Lagos LG Poll: Nollywood Actress Dayo Amusa Rallies Support for Taiwo Oyekan, Says “He’s A Symbol of Hope and Good Governance”

newsheadline247

-

June 28, 2025

0

Lagos LG Poll: Nollywood Actress Dayo Amusa Rallies Support for Taiwo Oyekan, Says “He’s A Symbol of Hope and Good Governance”

In what many described as a passionate grassroots show of support, women across key communities in Lagos Island—including Isale-Eko, Olowogbowo, and Okoo Faji—turned out en masse on Thursday, June 26, 2025, in support of All Progressives Congress (APC) local government chairmanship candidate, Hon. Taiwo Oyekan.

Defying heavy rain, women’s associations and local residents marched through the streets distributing campaign flyers highlighting Oyekan’s 7-point agenda and his proven record as a councillor. The atmosphere was vibrant, with chants of solidarity and shared belief in Oyekan’s leadership credentials echoing across the streets.

Addressing the crowd, Hon. Taiwo Oyekan said, “This walk is not just political in nature but a movement for qualitative grassroots governance, propelled by passion to serve and progressive leadership.”

He reaffirmed his commitment to serve the people diligently and deliver the dividends of democracy across every ward if elected chairman of Lagos Island Local Government on July 12.

Prominent voices added their weight to the campaign, including respected community leader Mrs. Sidikat Maiyegun-Yekini, who said: “He has been in the system, and he has carved a niche for himself. I urge him, when voted into power, to focus on provision of social amenities, people’s welfare, economic empowerment, and security.”

Mrs. Maiyegun-Yekini described Oyekan’s tenure as councillor as “unprecedented” and expressed confidence that he would win by a wide margin.

Also lending her voice was popular Nollywood actress Dayo Amusa, who described Hon. Oyekan as: “A symbol of hope and good governance. He is a true indigene of Lagos Island. Taiwo is your son, your friend, and a kind-hearted individual.”

Grassroots mobilization was also seen in Ward A3, where resident Amudat called on voters to come out in full force on election day.

“Taiwo Oyekan has proven himself. Let’s vote him in for continuity and progress.”

From Onola quarters, Mrs. Idowu Sanusi Shitta-Bay (popularly known as Iya Ewee) echoed the call: “In my community, I am personally canvassing for Hon. Oyekan. We believe in his capacity to lead Lagos Island to greater heights.”

Thursday’s rally, despite the rain, saw an impressive turnout and renewed optimism among residents, signaling a strong base of support for Oyekan as the July 12 local government election draws closer.

“It’s about the people and our communities,” one banner read—capturing the spirit of the day.

Just In: Kano Billionaire Business Mogul Aminu Dantata Dies at 94

newsheadline247

-

June 28, 2025

0

He was a patriarch of the influential Dantata family in Kano. He was also a brother to the grandfather of Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote

Just In: Kano Billionaire Business Mogul Aminu Dantata Dies at 94

Nigeria has lost one of its foremost business titans and philanthropists, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, who passed away at the age of 94.

The sad news was confirmed on Saturday through a heartfelt Facebook post by his Principal Private Secretary, Mustapha Abdullahi Junaid.

“It is with heavy heart that I announce the passing of our beloved father, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata,” Junaid wrote. “May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus and forgive his shortcomings. The Janazah details will be shared later insha Allah.”

Alhaji Aminu Dantata was widely respected not only for his immense contributions to Nigeria’s business landscape but also for his deep philanthropic efforts that spanned several decades.

He was the founder of Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd, and a patriarch of the influential Dantata family in Kano. He was also a brother to the grandfather of Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, further cementing the family’s legacy in Nigeria’s commercial and industrial history.

Tributes are already pouring in from across the country as Nigerians mourn the loss of a man many have described as a quiet giant who helped shape the nation’s economy through enterprise and compassion.

Funeral (Janazah) arrangements, according to the family, will be announced in due course. Read More

NNPC Raises Alarm Over Alleged Plot to Derail Reforms

newsheadline247

-

June 28, 2025

0

This development comes at a time when the NNPC Ltd. is undergoing sweeping reforms, including commercialisation, enhanced accountability, and improved operational efficiency

NNPC Raises Alarm Over Alleged Plot to Derail Reforms

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has sounded the alarm over what it describes as a deliberate and coordinated campaign of sabotage, allegedly orchestrated to discredit its leadership and stall its ongoing transformation agenda.

In a strongly worded public notice issued on Friday, the company claimed that a network of internal and external actors is behind a calculated effort to misinform the public, damage reputations, and undermine its reform mandate under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“These are calculated efforts by those who feel threatened by reform, transparency, accountability, and change—clear evidence of the lengths to which they will go to obstruct the transformation of Nigeria’s foremost energy institution,” the statement declared.

According to the company, the campaign includes the spread of “scandalous and fabricated reports” designed to distract leadership, mislead the public, and demoralize the workforce.

While the NNPC stopped short of naming those allegedly behind the smear effort, it hinted that more defamatory publications should be expected in the days ahead. However, it reaffirmed its determination to stay the course.

“NNPC Ltd. remains on mission,” the statement added. “The transformation is underway, and no amount of sabotage will stop it.”

The company called on staff, partners, and patriotic Nigerians to remain focused, avoid distractions, and continue supporting its drive to become a transparent, performance-driven, and corruption-free national energy champion.

This development comes at a time when the NNPC Ltd. is undergoing sweeping reforms, including commercialisation, enhanced accountability, and improved operational efficiency in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). Read More

Dangote is the Pride of Nigeria’s Financial Market, Says NGX Group Chairman

Business

newsheadline247

-

June 27, 2025

0

Dangote is the Pride of Nigeria’s Financial Market, Says NGX Group Chairman

…Listing of Dangote Fertiliser Will Revolutionise Capital Market – Dangote

DSC 3279, L-R CEO NGX, Temi Popoola; President / CE, Dangote Industries Ltd, Aliko Dangote; Group Chairman, NGX Group Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga; Vice President, Oil and Gas, Dangote Industries Ltd, Devakumar Edwin, during the NGX Group’s Visit to Dangote petroleum Refinery and fertiliser plant, Ibeju-Lekki Lagos on Tuesday June 25, 2025.

Dangote is the Pride of Nigeria’s Financial Market, Says NGX Group Chairman

The Group Chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group), Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, has praised the President/Chief Executive, Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote for his substantial contributions to the Nigerian capital market and private sector development.

He noted this during a courtesy visit to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals and Dangote Fertiliser Limited by capital market stakeholders.

Kwairanga, who called for the listing of Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Dangote Fertiliser on the NGX, stated that it would represent a natural progression in the Dangote Group’s journey towards transparency, market leadership, and inclusive wealth creation.

Noting that the Nigerian capital market takes great pride in Dangote and his contributions to the economy, he commended the impact of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery on the Nigerian economy, stressing that the various initiatives introduced have provided much-needed relief to Nigerians.

Kwairanga recalled Dangote’s tenure as President of the Council of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, describing him as a visionary whose leadership shaped the capital market landscape.

“Through the listing of companies such as Dangote Cement Plc, Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, and NASCON Allied Industries Plc, the Group has significantly deepened market liquidity, boosted investor confidence, and driven long-term value creation for shareholders,” he stated.

The Chairman emphasised that the visit was more than a tour; it was a reaffirmation of the NGX’s commitment to aligning investment capital with national development goals.

The President/ Chief Executive of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, reaffirmed that the Group will soon list the Dangote Fertiliser Limited on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), with the aim of revolutionising the capital market.

He assured shareholders that those investing in Dangote Fertiliser Limited would not need to worry about the value of the local currency, as the company operates within a dollarised business framework.

“So, what are we aiming to do to bring about a major revolution in the capital market? The main challenge is that many investors are hesitant, thinking, ‘If I invest my naira now, by the time I receive dividends in ten years, the naira will have lost value.’ However, we are entering the market with a dollarised business model,” he explained.

Dangote further disclosed that the company is working on expanding its fertiliser plants to boost revenue, with a target dividend payment to shareholders exceeding $3 billion.

“In the next 40 months, our fertiliser business should generate $20 million in revenue per day. We are pushing hard. We expect to reach over $70 billion in revenue and possibly pay dividends of $3–4 billion. Our philosophy is to always think big,” he said.

He added that the Group is also strengthening its cement business by investing in new plants and targeting clinker exports to West African countries, which will boost revenue and provide better dividends for shareholders.

Praising the recent progress of the NGX, Dangote stressed that Nigeria needs companies like Reliance Industries Limited, which once held its Annual General Meetings in a stadium. Such companies, he noted, would stimulate the economy and encourage wealth distribution.

Emphasising that Nigeria cannot attain its $1 trillion economy target without a vibrant stock exchange, Dangote affirmed his continued engagement and support for the NGX, acknowledging its crucial role.

The Vice President of Oil & Gas at Dangote Group, Edwin Devakumar, who led the delegation on a tour of the facilities, described the construction of the 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery as a monumental achievement that demanded immense courage, vision, and determination. He noted that the Group acted as its own Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor for the refinery—a feat never before attempted at this scale.

He also stressed that the refinery has ensured Nigeria is no longer reliant on imports to meet its petroleum needs and is now exporting refined products to various continents worldwide.

Also present were the CEO of NGX, Temi Popoola; Managing Director/CEO of Central Securities Clearing System Plc (CSCS), Haruna Jalo-Waziri; CIS President, Oluropo Dada; ASHON Chairman, Sam Onukwe; CEO of NGX Regulation, Olufemi Shobanjo; CEO of Lagos Commodity Exchange, Akeredolu Ali; and other major stakeholders. Read More

“No Room for Criminals in Ottaland” – AIG Fayoade Adegoke Commissions Police Base in Itele-Otta, Receives Royal Backing

Lukman Omikunle

-

June 27, 2025

0

“No Room for Criminals in Ottaland” – AIG Fayoade Adegoke Commissions Police Base in Itele-Otta, Receives Royal Backing

Community Donates Building to Boost Security, Oba Eletu, Olota Hail Police Partnership

Police Zonal Scorpion Squad Base new building, Itele

“No Room for Criminals in Ottaland” – AIG Fayoade Adegoke Commissions Police Base in Itele-Otta, Receives Royal Backing

In a bold step to strengthen security architecture in Itele-Otta, Ogun State, the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 2 Command, Lagos, Fayoade Adegoke, on Friday, commissioned a new operational base for the Zonal Scorpion Squad.

The facility, located in Odan-Otun, Itele-Otta, was donated by His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Musiliu Ademola Eletu, the Onitele of Itele-Otta Awori Kingdom. The base is expected to bolster the fight against crime in the Ado-Odo/Ota axis and consolidate the efforts of the Ogun State Police Command.

During the commissioning ceremony, AIG Adegoke charged police officers stationed at the new base to uphold professionalism, discipline, and integrity in the discharge of their duties.

“This base is not just a building—it is a symbol of our commitment to law, order, and the safety of our people,” Adegoke said. “Let me be clear: this environment must never be hostile to law-abiding citizens. We expect thorough, responsible policing—no intimidation, no extortion. Criminals must know that their time is up in this area.”

He also commended the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for what he described as “visionary leadership” that has repositioned the Nigeria Police Force for improved service delivery.

“IGP Egbetokun’s support made this deployment possible, and we’re seeing real transformation in community policing as a result of his leadership,” he added.

On his part, Oba Eletu expressed deep gratitude to AIG Fayoade for his swift response to the community’s security needs, noting that the intervention of the Zone 2 Command had already led to a dramatic decline in criminal activity.

“This is a historic day for Itele-Otta,” the monarch said. “When we unite as a people, nothing is beyond our reach. AIG Fayoade is a blessing to us—his dedication to protecting our communities has already brought peace to our land.”

Oba Dr. Musiliu Ademola Eletu, the Onitele of Itele-Otta Awori Kingdom

He went on to thank the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, the Olota of Otta, Oba Adeyemi Obalanlege, the Onitele Council of Chiefs, Baales, and the local Community Development Associations (CDAs and CDCs) for their contributions to the project.

Oba Eletu emphasized that security was a shared responsibility. “Our community is fully committed to supporting the police. This new base is our way of saying: we stand with you, and we want a crime-free Itele.”

Olata of Otta, His Royal Majesty Oba (Professor) Adeyemi Obalanlege Lanlege Ekun II

The Olota of Ota, His Royal Majesty Oba Abdulkabir Adeyemi Obalanlege, Lanlege Ekun II, who graced the police building commissioning ceremony as royal guest of honour, lauded both Oba Eletu and AIG Adegoke for their collaborative spirit.

“This commissioning is more than just a ceremony—it is a warning to all criminal elements that there is no hiding place for them in Ottaland,” the Olota declared. “Our royal institutions and the Nigeria Police are united in purpose: peace, order, and prosperity.”

Elegushi of Egushi-Otta with the Seriki of Otta, Lanre Bashorun a.k.a LarryBash

The event was witnessed by senior police officers, traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents, who hailed the development as a turning point for grassroots security in the territory. Read More

Fidelity Bank Boosts Staff Welfare with 20% Salary Hike, Promotes 376 Employees

Banking

newsheadline247

-

June 26, 2025

0

Under the leadership of Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Fidelity Bank has consistently outperformed market expectations

Fidelity Bank Boosts Staff Welfare with 20% Salary Hike, Promotes 376 Employees

Fidelity Bank Plc, one of Nigeria’s top-tier financial institutions, has promoted 376 employees following its recently concluded annual performance review exercise.

This represents approximately 12% of the bank’s workforce, underscoring its management’s deep appreciation for the pivotal role played by staff in recoding the highest growth by percentage volumes in the banking industry with 210% increase in its Profit Before Tax (PBT) which grew from N124.3 billion in 2023 to N385.2 billion in 2024.

The announcement, which was recently communicated internally, comes on the heels of a 20% across-the-board salary increase implemented in June 2025—a gesture that reflects the bank’s commitment to staff welfare.

It is worth noting that this follows a similar salary adjustment carried out in November 2024.

Under the leadership of Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, Fidelity Bank has consistently outperformed market expectations.

Fidleity Bank MD/CEO, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe

In 2024, the bank recorded the highest share price growth of 116% in the industry following the completion of its Public Offer which was over subscribed by 238%.

In recognition of the banks stellar performance, global rating agency, Fitch Ratings recently upgraded Fidelity Bank’s National Long-Term Rating from ‘A(nga)’ to ‘A+(nga)’ in a further endorsement of the bank’s financial strength and prudent management.

The upgraded ratings reflects improved profitability metrics and robust capital buffers, reinforcing the bank’s sustained upward trajectory. Read More

Ogun Governor’s Qatari Dairy Investment Claim Questioned as Firm Reveals “Visit Was Purely Exploratory”

newsheadline247

-

June 26, 2025

0

The company revealed that they only paid the state a visit for fact-finding, and no agreement has been reached

Ogun Governor’s Qatari Dairy Investment Claim Questioned as Firm Reveals “Visit Was Purely Exploratory”

Qatar’s largest dairy company, Baladna has said that its recent visit to Ogun State was exploratory.

This is coming after the Ogun State Government took to X to announce that the company is “set to establish a multi-million dollar food and dairy facility in the state.”

To notify the public of the visit, Governor Dapo Abiodun flaunted pictures of the meeting online, disclosing that Baladna plans to establish its business in Ogun.

According to the state, the Qatari project would aid the creation of jobs and production of food, while decreasing the billions of naira Nigeria parts with annually on importing dairy products.

However, speaking to The Guardian Nigeria, the company revealed that they only paid the state a visit for fact-finding, and no agreement has been reached.

“We would like to clarify that, at this stage, we are only exploring potential avenues for cooperation and there are no agreements or announced projects regarding a dairy investment in Ogun State, Nigeria,” Baladna said.

The organization stated that as a company listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange, if a deal had been agreed, it would have been announced on its website first.

The company maintained that once there is news regarding any of its activities, it would be shared by its official regulatory channels to keep the public informed.

“Please note that Baladna is a publicly listed company on the Qatar Stock Exchange and, as such, is subject to strict disclosure requirements regulated by the Qatar Financial Markets Authority and other relevant bodies. Accordingly, any public announcements or press statements regarding our operations or investments must be disclosed through official regulatory channels before being communicated to the public.

In light of the above, no press release or public statement regarding any potential investment by Baladna may be issued by any party without following the proper legal procedures and formal disclosure by us to the competent regulatory authorities in Qatar. Furthermore, the use of Baladna’s name thereof without prior written consent is strictly unauthorised,” Baladna added.

Reacting, Governor Dapo Abiodun’s media aide, Kayode Akinmade, also clarified that no deal has been agreed.

Speaking during an interview, Kayode stressed that no investment agreement has been finalized between both parties, and discussions are still preliminary.

He concluded by saying that Ogun State simply highlighted its strengths as a potential partner, including the availability of land, proximity to Lagos State, and its favourable investment climate.

“There is no signed agreement between Ogun State and Baladna.

Nothing has been finalised. They came to explore opportunities; they came here to prospect about what they can bring to the table. So Ogun state also told them, okay, well, we have land, we have this. We are close to Lagos. We have this. It was covered on both TV and newspapers, unless the people who came are not the true representatives of Baladna,” he added. Read More

By Guardian Nigeria.