NLNG: Adeleye Falade Assumes Office as New MD/CEO

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01/04/2026

Adeleye Falade has officially assumed office as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NLNG.

He took up the role on Wednesday at the company’s Corporate Head Office in Port Harcourt, succeeding Philip Mshelbila, who was recently appointed Secretary-General of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF).

Falade brings nearly three decades of experience in the global oil and gas industry, with extensive leadership exposure across the LNG and petroleum value chain. Over the course of his career within the Shell Group, he has built a distinguished record across upstream and midstream operations in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Russia, and Africa.

His professional expertise spans gas and petroleum operations, production optimisation, engineering, operational excellence, business improvement, and change management. He has also held several senior technical and leadership roles within Shell and its affiliated companies, gaining broad exposure to complex operational environments, multinational joint ventures, and the management of diverse, multicultural teams.

Prior to his appointment as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of NLNG, Falade served as Managing Director of Brunei LNG Sendirian Berhad, a position he assumed in April 2024. In that role, he led one of the world’s established LNG producers and oversaw strategic operational delivery within Brunei’s LNG sector.

Earlier in 2023, he was appointed Country Chair for Shell Namibia, where he provided strategic leadership for Shell’s operations and stakeholder engagement in the country.

Before taking on these international leadership assignments, Falade held key senior roles at NLNG. Between May 2019 and September 2023, he served as General Manager, Production, where he was responsible for ensuring production reliability, plant performance, and operational safety across NLNG’s world-class LNG facilities on Bonny Island.

Earlier in his career, he served as Operations Manager at NLNG from July 2015 to May 2018, overseeing plant operations and operational performance. He later moved to the Netherlands as Regional Asset Management System (AMS) Implementation Manager at Shell in The Hague between May 2018 and April 2019. In that role, he led the deployment of asset management systems aimed at improving operational efficiency and reliability across Shell’s global assets.

Falade has a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Electronics Engineering at the University of Ibadan. He also obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Henley Business School, University of Reading, United Kingdom, further strengthening his strategic and leadership capabilities in the global energy sector.

Falade is a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE) and a registered member of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN). He is also a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE).

Falade assumes leadership of NLNG at a pivotal time for the company and the global LNG industry. The company recently secured long-term Gas Supply Agreements (GSAs) with six third-party suppliers to strengthen feedgas supply to its Bonny Island trains. This comes as the Train 7 expansion project nears completion, a development expected to significantly boost NLNG’s production capacity and reinforce Nigeria’s position in the global LNG market.

Fadale joins a fully Nigerian management team at NLNG, demonstrating the company’s sustained commitment to developing indigenous leadership and strengthening local capacity within the organisation.

Stanbic IBTC Bank Nigeria PMI: New Order Growth Sustained in March, but Higher Fuel Costs Lead to Surge in Prices

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01/04/2026

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Growth slowed in the Nigerian private sector at the end of the first quarter of the year as higher fuel costs led to a steep intensification of inflationary pressures.

Output growth was only modest, but underlying demand reportedly remained resilient, leading to a further sharp rise in new orders. In turn, firms continued to expand their employment and purchasing activity.

The headline figure derived from the survey is the Stanbic IBTC Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI). Readings above 50.0 signal an improvement in business conditions on the previous month, while readings below 50.0 show a deterioration.

The headline PMI posted 51.9 in March, down from 53.2 in February but still above the 50.0 no-change mark and therefore signalling an improvement in the health of the private sector during the month. Business conditions have strengthened in 15 of the past 16 months.

Muyiwa Oni, Head of Equity Research West Africa at Stanbic IBTC Bank commented: “While higher fuel costs and power supply issues contributed to a slowdown in the growth of Nigeria’s private sector activity, underlying demand remains strong. This is reflected in an increase in customer demand and the associated impact of new product launches, both of which supported an improvement in new orders. Businesses also remained optimistic about increases in future output amid their plans to invest in business expansions and boost promotional efforts. Nonetheless, input prices rose markedly at the sharpest pace since January 2025, with all four monitored sectors seeing sharper rates of inflation. The PMI numbers in Q1:26 are consistent with an estimated 3.99% y/y GDP growth for the quarter after also accounting for crude oil sector’s performance. We now see the Nigerian economy growing by 4.22% y/y in 2026, from 3.87% y/y in 2025, with the oil sector growth slowing to 3.01% y/y (vs 2025: 8.50% y/y), as we now expect crude oil production (including condensates) to We estimate the non-oil sector’s growth at 4.24% y/y in 2026, from 3.71% y/y in 2025, likely driven primarily by services, which we see growing by 5.64% y/y in 2026 (vs 2025: 4.14% y/y). The government’s continuous investment attraction across oil & gas, solid minerals, electricity, agriculture and general manufacturing should continue to support sentiment on production activity.

The government’s infrastructure drive should keep supporting the attractiveness of the construction, real estate and cement sectors. In addition, we expect electioneering activity to support improvement in media & advertising, logistics, transportation, hospitality, security services, and communications activities — as these are the direct beneficiaries of election-related spending. Nonetheless, the ongoing tensions in the Middle East pose a downside risk to the growth outlook as higher inflation emanating from sustained increase in fuel prices may lead to higher-for-longer interest rates. This may influence a slowdown in demand conditions should the tensions continue to escalate.”

Reports of greater customer requests amid improving underlying demand, as well as the impact of new product launches, led to a further marked increase in new orders, the second in as many months. The rate of growth was only slightly softer than that seen in February. The rate of expansion in business activity slowed more markedly, however, and was only modest overall.

A number of firms continued to raise output in response to higher new orders, but others suggested that rising fuel costs had limited growth. Activity increased in agriculture and wholesale & retail, but decreased in manufacturing and services.

The aforementioned rise in fuel costs had a stark impact on rates of inflation in the Nigerian private sector during March. Purchase costs increased at the fastest pace in 15 months, while selling prices were also raised to the largest extent since December 2024 in response.

Selling price inflation accelerated sharply across all four monitored sectors. Employment increased for the tenth month running, albeit slightly and at a slower pace than in February. Meanwhile, the rate of staff cost inflation also eased and was at a four-month low.

The need to respond to rising new orders and expected increases in workloads in the coming months encouraged companies to expand their purchasing activity and stocks of inputs in March. The rise in input buying was marked, but inventory accumulation was only modest.

Prompt payments for purchased items meant that suppliers’ lead times continued to shorten, but some firms reported that higher fuel costs had impacted delivery schedules.

Meanwhile, shortages of staff and materials, price increases and power supply issues contributed to a further accumulation of outstanding business, albeit one that was only marginal.

Companies remained optimistic that output will increase over the coming year, with confidence reflecting plans to invest in business expansions and boost promotional efforts. That said, sentiment eased to a four-month low.

NGX Group Chair: CloD Remains the Benchmark for Corporate Governance in Nigeria

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01/04/2026

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I am delighted to be part of the launch of the CIoD 2026 Corporate Governance Outlook.

The Chartered Institute of Directors has a well-deserved leadership position in corporate governance in Nigeria.

As the country’s premier Institute for Directors, it has a membership of experienced and dedicated corporate governance practitioners spanning all sectors and industries. Its training, research and advocacy initiatives are cutting edge and designed to maintain excellence in corporate governance in the private and the public sector.

Business environments are fluid and never static but directors should always hold firm to ethical principles and practices. In fast evolving business and work scenarios, good ethical values should be the compass to guide directors’ decisions.

The CIoD Corporate Governance Outlook provides practitioners an opportunity to remind ourselves of best ethical practices, review current insights and guidance for directors and be aware of current developments in good corporate governance.

The Nigerian Exchange NGX is the premier exchange and the listing platform of choice for companies that desire a public quotation. Our duty of care to investors requires that we ensure that our listed companies maintain the highest standards of corporate governance at all times. We do this by embedding good corporate governance as a requirement to qualify for listing. We monitor corporate governance practices of listed entities actively and sanction those which fail to uphold best practices and reward those which excel. In this way, the Chartered Institute of Directors and the Nigerian Exchange Group are aligned in the drive to ensure sound corporate governance and ethical leadership in our institutions and our public companies.

I wish to, on behalf of the Nigerian Exchange Group, thank the Institute for making our job easier through initiatives such as this and pledge the Group’s commitment to collaboration with the CIoD in ensuring excellent corporate governance practices in Nigeria.

I thank the Institute for this forum and wish all participants focused and rewarding deliberations.

Thank you.

Alhaji (Dr) Umaru Kwairanga

Chairman NGX Group

WorldStage Nigeria’s Macroeconomic Outlook 2026: Stakeholders Demand Policy Consistency to Anchor Investor Confidence for Growth

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30/03/2026

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L-R: Mr Segun Adeleye, President/CEO, World Stage Limited, Miss Nike Popoola, a Journalist and Insurance Expert; Dr. Abina Praise representing Engr. (Dr.) Jani Ibrahim, President of NACCIMA and Chairman of OPSN; Captain Badamasi M.S, a Pilot and Mr. Segun Koiki, a journalist and Aviation Expert at the public presentation of WorldStage Nigeria’s Macroeconomic Outlook 2026 on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at the LCCI-BOI Innovation Hub, Ikeja, Lagos.

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s economy including the President of the Nigerian Association of Chamber of Commerce Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Engr Jani Ibrahim, have made a case for policy consistency that must anchor investor confidence, as credibility and predictability remain fundamental to economic growth.

In his presentation on the theme “Nigeria’s Economy: Getting it right” as the Guest Speaker at the public presentation of the WorldStage Nigeria’s Macroeconomic Outlook 2026 titled “Turning the Corner” in Lagos, Engr Ibrahim said: “Getting it right requires moving beyond stabilisation to structural transformation. Policy consistency must anchor investor confidence, as credibility and predictability remain fundamental to economic growth.”

The NACCIMA President who was represented by Dr. Abina Praise said: “Nigeria is at a critical transition point from reform to results, and from stabilisation to sustainable prosperity. Recent economic reforms, including exchange rate liberalisation and subsidy removal, have begun to stabilise key indicators. Growth is strengthening, with projections in the range of 4 to 5 percent, while inflation, though easing, remains elevated at approximately 15 percent, continuing to exert pressure on households.”

He said while the recent economic reforms underscore a clear reality as stability is emerging, it was clear that prosperity is yet to be fully realised.

“Stakeholders now expect greater fiscal clarity, particularly around the evolving tax regime, exchange rate management, and the broader policy direction shaping the 2026 macroeconomic outlook,” he said.

With the current development within the economy, he said Nigeria must pivot from a consumption-driven model to a production-led economy.

“While the non-oil sector contributes over 97 percent of GDP, productivity especially in manufacturing remains modest, highlighting a structural gap that must be addressed through industrialisation, value addition, and export competitiveness,” he said.

He also spoke about different sector of the economy saying the non-oil sector continues its resilient growth, with expanding export potential and increasing relevance in foreign exchange earnings; food security remains a pressing priority, as rising food costs continue to drive inflation and affect livelihoods; infrastructure development particularly in power, transport, and logistics must be prioritised, as no economy can outperform the quality of its infrastructure.

He acknowledged that the private sector remains the engine of growth and unlocking its full potential requires improved access to finance, a more enabling business environment, and stronger investment protection.

On the the new tax framework and regulatory environment, he said clarity will be critical in reducing uncertainty and supporting investment planning and business expansion.

“The trajectory of the Naira will remain central, with expectations of gradual movement towards a more stable equilibrium, supported by improved foreign exchange inflows and disciplined monetary management,” he said.

“Ultimately, the true test of success lies in inclusive growth. Economic progress must translate into jobs, opportunities, and improved living standards. Empowering MSMEs, investing in human capital, and strengthening social protection are therefore essential.

“Sectorally, agriculture must transition into a productivity-driven agribusiness model. Manufacturing must scale through industrial capacity and export orientation, while the services sector particularly digital services will play an increasingly strategic role in growth and job creation.

“One of the most critical pillars in getting it right is accountability. That is why we are gathered here today not merely as observers, but as stakeholders committed to transparency, performance measurement, and shared responsibility.

“Looking ahead, Nigeria must embrace a disciplined economic framework anchored on policy consistency, diversification, digitalisation, decentralisation, and effective execution. The focus must shift from intention to impact, and from reform to results.

“Nigeria’s potential remains undeniable, with an economy valued at approximately $350 billion. However, potential alone is not enough. It is execution, consistency, and collective commitment that will define outcomes.”

He therefore commended World Stage Limited “for its consistency in providing a credible platform for policy dialogue and economic introspection. Through initiatives such as the Nigeria Outlook and its broader thought leadership engagements, the organisation continues to bridge the gap between data, policy, and private sector realities. This kind of institutional commitment is essential in shaping informed discourse and guiding evidence-based decision-making. It is through platforms like this that we collectively sharpen our perspectives and align our national economic priorities.”

The Honourable Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso in his review of the publication, WorldStage Nigeria’s Macroeconomic Outlook 2026 said its title suggests, “Turning the Corner” captures a nation in transition, moving from economic strain toward recovery, stability, and sustainable growth.

Omotoso who was represented by Mrs. Temilade Aruya, Public Affairs Director, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Lagos State, said the publication “is both a reflection and a projection. It reflects on where we stand as a nation economically, and more importantly, it projects where we are headed—if the right decisions are sustained with discipline, courage, and collective responsibility.

“The publication offers a balanced reflection of Nigeria’s economic reality. It acknowledges long-standing structural challenges while highlighting the resilience, innovation, and determination of the Nigerian people.

“More importantly, it provides a forward-looking perspective. With projections of GDP growth at 4.49% in 2026 and inflation easing to 12.94%, the outlook signals cautious optimism. However, it does not ignore persistent concerns such as infrastructure deficits, high cost of capital, and global economic uncertainties. This balance between optimism and realism is one of the book’s greatest strengths.”

One of the standout features of the publication, he said “is its broad sectoral coverage, giving a comprehensive view of the economy. It examines key sectors including banking, capital markets, telecommunications, agriculture, manufacturing, maritime, aviation, health, education, and the creative economy.

“This approach reinforces an important message: Nigeria’s economic transformation must be holistic. No single sector can drive growth in isolation. Progress must be interconnected, inclusive, and sustained across multiple industries.”

He also acknowledged analysis of other sectors including banking sector, Capital Market, Oil and Gas, Telecommunications, Reform Agenda and Policy Direction among others.

“The common thread across these sectors is clear—growth will be driven by reforms, innovation, and investment,” he said.

He also said the “publication provides valuable insight into ongoing reforms, particularly in monetary policy, fiscal management, and external sector stability. Key policy measures—including exchange rate reforms, subsidy removal, and tax restructuring which are acknowledged as necessary steps toward long-term stability. While these reforms may present short-term challenges, they are essential for building a more resilient and competitive economy.

“The message is clear: consistency in policy implementation will determine the success of these reforms.”

He said a major strength of “Turning the Corner” is its honesty in addressing risks. These include Inflationary pressures, especially food inflation, Exchange rate volatility, High debt servicing costs, Infrastructure challenges, Pre-election fiscal risks.

“By acknowledging these realities, the publication strengthens its credibility and underscores the need for sustained vigilance,” he said.

Beyond macroeconomic indicators, he said the publication emphasises the importance of inclusive growth. Economic progress must translate into improved living standards, job creation, and expanded opportunities for citizens.

“This focus on human capital, skills development, workforce stability, and inclusion—is particularly important. Without it, economic growth may not deliver meaningful impact on the lives of Nigerians.”

In conclusion, he said, “Turning the Corner” is a significant contribution to Nigeria’s economic discourse. It provides not only analysis, but also direction. The book makes it clear that Nigeria is on a path of reform and recovery. However, turning the corner is only the beginning. Sustained progress will require discipline, strong institutions, policy consistency, and collective commitment.

“If these elements are maintained, Nigeria has a real opportunity to achieve long-term, inclusive, and sustainable growth. As stakeholders in this journey—government, private sector, and citizens alike—we all have a role to play in ensuring that Nigeria not only turns the corner but moves forward with confidence and purpose.”

In his opening address at the forum, Mr Segun Adeleye, President/CEO World Stage Limited said WorldStage Nigeria’s Macroeconomic Outlook 2026 was the company’s response to Nigeria’s aims to achieve a $1 trillion economy by 2030, driven by recent macroeconomic reforms, infrastructure investments, and growth in non-oil sectors.

He said the outlook offered a comprehensive and detailed analysis of Nigeria’s economy, identifies key trends, opportunities, and challenges that are likely to shape the country’s future.

He said the outlook was achieved through partnerships with stakeholders, including public and private organisations.

“I believe that corporate organisations need the media as much as the media need them to survive. Projects like this is also to contribute to the country’s economic development through comprehensive understanding of the business environment and identifying areas for growth and investment,” he said.

He used opportunity to raise the issue of what Nigeria’s media sector really needed to discharge it’s responsibility to the economy and the society at large.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently offered to reduce tariffs on inputs into media operations, including newsprint, plates, chemicals, and radio and television broadcast equipment. But with media houses now transforming to offer online products and services, the extent to which they will benefit from such tariffs cut may be very minimal,” he said.

“While the most reasonable revenue source to keep the media going is through advertising, the advertising window has been dwindling over the years. I will want us to examine a workable application of the Federal Government’s “Nigeria First” policy in the media sector. The policy can be explored to compel local businesses to prioritise the local media. This is important because many Nigeria’s blue chips spend millions of dollars to promote their businesses in foreign media with little regards for the local players. Even though, they make their profits locally, they spend the bulk of their advertising budget on foreign media to look good outside.

“The way forward, I think should be for President Bola Tinubu to issue an Executive Order mandating local firms to commit nothing less than 80% of their advertising budget to local media.”

He appreciated the partnership with Zenith Bank, NLNG, CBN, NNPC Limited, Linkage Assurance and Fidelity Bank that made the project possible while expressing belief that if most Nigerian firms can emulate NLNG in terms of social responsibility and commitment to local media, there will be no need of seeking for an Executive Order for them to do the needful.

He confirmed that WorldStage will be coming up with quarterly reports during the year as reliable business compasses for the country aiming to achieve a $1 trillion economy.

“Work is already at an advanced stage on our Q1 2026 report which will provide actionable insights for policymakers, businesses, and investors, informing strategies for growth and development. Specific metrics to expect include GDP growth rate, Inflation rate, Exchange rate, Oil production and prices, non-oil revenue growth, manufacturing PMI, and foreign reserves.”

The event was attended by major stakeholders in the economy including regulators, operators and the media.

Railway Infrastructure is One of the Solutions to Africa’s Trade Expansion

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30/03/2026

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By Caroline Trefault

Intermodal Africa Manager at MSC

As Africa’s economies continue to diversify and grow at around 4% year-on-year on average, moving goods across the continent is becoming more complex, time-sensitive, and strategically important. Ports are essential gateways for international trade, but the effectiveness of Africa’s trade systems is ultimately determined inland, by how efficiently cargo moves between ports, industrial centres, and consumer markets.

Transport infrastructure, including rail, is recognised as crucial to economic development and regional integration in Africa. The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) notes that transport, including rail, will see increased freight volumes of approximately 28% by 2030 as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) expands trade flows, but this opportunity depends on implementing regional infrastructure projects.

In many African markets, trade growth is constrained less by maritime capacity than by inland connectivity. Long distances and limited infrastructure place pressure on supply chains, particularly along corridors linking landlocked countries to seaports. As volumes increase, these challenges become more pronounced. Rail, where operational and strategically integrated, offers capacity, consistency, and an alternative to road-centric transport.

Rail’s role in inland connectivity and planning certainty

Rail’s value is not theoretical. Where infrastructure exists, trains can carry volumes that would otherwise require dozens of trucks, ease roadway congestion and enhancing cargo flow sustainability. In long-distance African trade corridors, this scale advantage becomes increasingly important as regional trade expands.

Rail also offers measurable safety and security benefits. Compared to road freight, rail transport generally records fewer accidents per tonne-kilometre, particularly on long-haul routes dominated by heavy-truck traffic.

Dedicated rail lines reduce exposure to mixed-traffic risks and limit cargo handling points, improving shipment integrity. For cargo owners, this translates into reduced loss exposure, improved reliability, and stronger supply chain resilience.

Another of rail’s most significant contributions to trade efficiency is predictability. Trains are less exposed to traffic congestion, road deterioration, and weather-related disruption, enabling more consistent transit times across long corridors.

This predictability strengthens inventory planning, production scheduling, and alignment with maritime services. As economies seek to expand regional trade, the ability to move higher volumes inland with reliability and lower risk becomes a strategic advantage.

Policy context and regional integration

Rail’s strategic role also aligns with continental policy goals. The AfCFTA, which aims to expand intra-African trade, will increase freight demand across all transport modes, including rail, but realising these gains requires investment in transport infrastructure.

The UNECA emphasises that doubling freight volumes under AfCFTA will require substantial expansion of trunk transport networks and wagons, including rail.

Transport infrastructure goes beyond moving goods. It stretches to supporting broader integration by connecting economic nodes and lowering barriers to cross-border commerce. Robust rail corridors complement trade agreements by reducing physical frictions that can nullify tariff reductions when transport costs remain high.

Sustainability and long-term resilience

Sustainability is an increasingly important consideration for supply chains globally. Rail freight is generally more energy-efficient and produces 76% less CO₂ per tonne-kilometre than road freight because of better fuel efficiency and lower energy demand.

In continental contexts where long distances and bulk movement predominate, this efficiency offers a pathway to reducing carbon intensity while maintaining competitive logistics costs. As African manufacturers, exporters, and importers focus more on environmental performance, in line with global sustainability goals, rail provides a freight option that complements these ambitions.

Private sector participation

Rail infrastructure performance in several African markets has historically ached from underinvestment and state monopolies. Recognising this, policymakers are increasingly exploring ways to involve private sector expertise in rail freight operations.

For example, the Côte d’Ivoire–Burkina Faso corridor which stretches approximately 1,150 – 1,260 kilometres between the Port of Abidjan and Ouagadougou and includes a major railway line linking the two countries. This vital freight link operates under a concession arrangement through SITARAIL, a joint venture (JV) between Africa Global Logistics (AGL) and the national rail authorities of both countries. The SITARAIL JV has recently implemented significant investments to modernise the corridor’s rolling stock, including the acquisition of new locomotives and additional freight wagons to increase hauling capacity, improve operational reliability, and reduce turnaround times along the Abidjan–Ouagadougou axis.

This model reflects a structured public–private framework designed to strengthen corridor performance while maintaining national oversight. Such arrangements demonstrate how collaboration between state entities and experienced logistics operators can contribute to maintaining critical inland trade routes that connect landlocked economies to maritime gateways.

In East Africa, the Mombasa–Nairobi Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) corridor plays a vital role in moving containers out of the Port of Mombasa, offering a faster and more reliable alternative to road transport. Freight trains deliver containers to Nairobi in less than 10 hours, compared to nearly two days by truck, significantly easing congestion at the port and improving national logistical efficiency.

Rail transport of containers between Mombasa and Nairobi continues to gain momentum, reaching historic records. In October 2025, the SGR moved 640,000 tonnes of freight in a single month, its highest level since operations began, equivalent to 23,000 trucks.

This rapid growth confirms the central role of rail in efficiently clearing containers from the Port of Mombasa, reducing reliance on road transport, and strengthening its position as the backbone of container movements in Kenya—significantly lowering logistics costs while limiting heavy‑truck traffic along the Mombasa–Nairobi corridor.

These reforms reflect a broader trend of public-private engagement in rail logistics, where commercial operators bring operational capability, technology, and capital to complement state infrastructure, improving overall corridor performance.

MSC’s intermodal approach

For logistics operators such as MSC, rail is part of an integrated network that combines it with road and maritime transport to move cargo seamlessly from origin to destination. MSC recently revealed it is strengthening solutions around its long-established intermodal capabilities, demonstrating how it delivers true end-to-end transport beyond the port.

This involves strategic inland corridors – Côte d’Ivoire–Burkina Faso, Cameroon, South Africa, Kenya, and Nacala–Malawi – which play a key role in connecting landlocked regions to coastal gateways, each central to the efficient movement of goods across some of Africa’s most commercially active supply chains.

The shipping company continuously evaluates opportunities to strengthen and expand this network to enhance market connectivity and provide customers with alternative routing options.

A key example is the Lobito Corridor, which connects the mineral-rich Copperbelt regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia to the Atlantic through Angola’s Port of Lobito. This corridor represents an infrastructure revival, and a structural shift in Southern Africa’s trade architecture, offering an Atlantic alternative for copper and cobalt exports, reducing transit times to Europe and the Americas, and reinforcing regional integration objectives under AfCFTA.

Rail is crucial in the broader intermodal transport solution, and it makes operational and economic sense. By incorporating rail into inland logistics solutions, MSC supports cargo flows between ports and hinterland markets in a way that complements road transport and aligns closely with maritime schedules.

This corridor-led approach reflects a practical response to capacity constraints, congestion, and the growing demand for reliable inland connectivity across Africa.

Africa’s trade expansion depends on how well transport modes interconnect to support growing economic complexity.

MSC’s regional trade deepens and infrastructure evolves, rail’s role as a backbone of Africa’s trade landscape will become even more concrete, supporting competitive participation in global commerce.

APC Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, Hails President Tinubu at 74

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30/03/2026

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Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, National Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC), on behalf of the National Working Committee, leaders, stakeholders, members and supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) across Nigeria and in the diaspora, has congratulated His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the occasion of his 74th birthday.

Yilwatda noted that the occasion is not only a moment of celebration for our great Party and our nation, but also an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the life, legacy, courage and enduring contributions of a statesman whose political journey has profoundly shaped the democratic evolution and development trajectory of our country.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s life has been defined by uncommon vision, resilience, strategic leadership, and an abiding commitment to nation-building.

Over the decades, he has distinguished himself as a patriot, reformer, democrat, bridge-builder and bold thinker who has consistently placed the national interest above personal comfort. From his days in the trenches of the democratic struggle to his remarkable stewardship as Governor of Lagos State, and now as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he has remained a symbol of purposeful leadership and progressive governance.

Today, as he marks 74 years of impactful living, the national chairman said Nigeria is witnessing a decisive era of courageous leadership and transformational reforms under his watch. President Tinubu came into office at a critical moment in our national life, with the resolve to confront longstanding structural distortions in our economy and governance architecture.

Rather than postpone difficult but necessary decisions, Yilwatda said the president has demonstrated statesmanship by initiating bold and far-reaching reforms aimed at laying a sustainable foundation for national prosperity, economic stability and inclusive growth.

The reform programmes of the Tinubu administration are visionary, strategic and deeply rooted in the long-term interest of the Nigerian people. His administration has shown uncommon courage in addressing inherited economic challenges through difficult but necessary policy choices designed to reposition the country for greater productivity, competitiveness and resilience, he said.

Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Yilwatda said Nigeria is undergoing a broad-based recalibration of its economic and governance systems. His administration has taken practical steps to stabilize the economy, restore investor confidence, strengthen fiscal discipline, improve revenue generation, deepen infrastructure development, reform critical sectors, expand social interventions and create an enabling environment for enterprise and innovation. These reforms, though demanding in the short term, are foundational and transformative in their long-term implications.

Notably, he said the President Tinubu has remained steadfast in his commitment to renewing hope for millions of Nigerians through deliberate policies aimed at improving livelihoods, supporting vulnerable citizens, boosting agriculture, reviving industry, enhancing energy security, expanding access to education and healthcare, and improving the overall ease of doing business in Nigeria.

He said the administration’s focus on infrastructure renewal, digital innovation, youth empowerment, local production, social investment, and subnational collaboration reflects a comprehensive and future-facing governance philosophy.

Equally commendable is the administration’s determination to strengthen national security, preserve unity, and build a more stable and confident federation where every Nigerian can aspire, contribute and thrive.

President Tinubu’s leadership style continues to reflect firmness, clarity of purpose, political wisdom and an unwavering belief in the greatness of Nigeria. At a time when the nation requires courage more than convenience, he has shown the character and capacity of a leader prepared to make history, not merely manage it.

As a Party, the All Progressives Congress is proud of the bold reformist direction of this administration and the discipline, focus and patriotism with which President Tinubu is steering the ship of state.

“We acknowledge that meaningful reform often comes with temporary discomfort, but we are convinced that the sacrifices of today will yield a stronger, more prosperous and more equitable Nigeria for present and future generations, he said.

“Indeed, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has continued to inspire confidence across the nation through his steadfast dedication to democratic ideals, institutional strengthening and responsible governance. His leadership embodies the progressive values upon which our Party is built, courage, justice, development, inclusion and national renewal.”

As he celebrates his 74th birthday, we honour not just his age, but the depth of his service, the strength of his convictions, and the historic significance of his leadership at this defining moment in our nation’s journey.

“On this special occasion, I join millions of Nigerians, friends of Nigeria and admirers of purposeful leadership around the world in praying that Almighty God grants Mr. President renewed strength, divine wisdom, sound health and greater grace to continue leading our beloved country to peace, stability and enduring prosperity.”

“Happy 74th Birthday, Your Excellency. Nigeria is grateful for your service.

The All Progressives Congress is proud of your leadership. History will remember your courage, Yilwatda said.

NCC Directs Telecom Operators to Compensate Subscribers for Poor Network Service

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30/03/2026

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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to provide compensation to subscribers whose network quality of service experience is below specified targets within specific locations.

The Commission’s position is that subscribers should not be made to bear the full burden of service disruptions where operators fail to meet prescribed standards of service delivery.

Under this directive, erring operators will compensate affected users directly for breaches of Quality of Service (QoS) Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) shall be required to pay these compensations for instances of poor quality of service recorded within specified time frames.

The compensation will be provided in the form of airtime credits, calculated based on subscribers’ average spending patterns and their presence within Local Government Areas where service failures occur.

The directive is rooted in the Commission’s broader regulatory philosophy that places the consumer at the centre of Nigeria’s telecommunications ecosystem. Telecommunications services today underpins economic activity, social interaction, and access to digital opportunities. When service quality is poor, the consequences affect productivity, commercial activities, and even public confidence in our communications system.

While regulatory fines have traditionally served as a deterrent against poor service delivery, the Commission is adopting a more consumer-focused approach that strengthens accountability within the industry.

The Commission has designed this measure to complement existing and ongoing efforts to strengthen service quality monitoring and enforce performance standards.

Further to this directive by the Commission to MNOs on compensation to consumers, the Commission is also mandating Tower Companies who own the critical infrastructure for Quality of Service delivery, such as masts, to invest in infrastructure with measurable outcomes using sums that it has fined these companies, in addition to other financial fines the Commission will deem appropriate.

The Commission will continue to reinforce the obligation of operators to invest consistently in network resilience, capacity expansion, and infrastructure upgrades to meet the growing demand for telecommunications services.

At the same time, it will deploy regulatory tools that promote fairness, transparency, and accountability across the sector, ensuring that every subscriber receives the quality of service they deserve while sustaining a telecommunications industry capable of powering Nigeria’s digital future.

BudgIT Demands Accountability over N129.5bn Disbursed on 2023 Census Without Result

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Business Journal

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27/03/2026

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Nigeria’s last credible population census was conducted in 2006. Twenty years later, the most populous country in Africa still does not know how many people live within its borders.

This is not a minor administrative inconvenience. It is a governance crisis with consequences that touch every Nigerian in the classroom, in the hospital, in the ward, and at the polling booth.

What makes this crisis more alarming is what we have found in the public expenditure records. Tracka unravelled payments totalling N129.5 billion made to various contractors and service providers in connection with activities related to the conduct of the suspended 2023 National Population Census between February 2022 and December 2023.

The census, which was announced, partially mobilised, and ultimately truncated without a single enumeration result being published, has consumed billions of naira of public funds with no corresponding public accountability.

Our independent tracking has revealed that disbursements were made, among others, for the following items:

38 billion for Personal Digital Assistants and Accessories
47 billion for Hilux vehicles
8 million for power banks
19 million for an e-recruitment portal

These figures raise questions that the National Population Commission has, to date, refused to answer.

In keeping with our commitment to evidence-based accountability, Tracka formally wrote to the National Population Commission on 19 February 2026, under Reference No. TRK/FOI/NPC/001, invoking the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011. The letter, addressed to the Chairman of the National Population Commission, Hon. (Dr.) Aminu Yusuf, specifically requested:

First, the total amount of funds released and disbursed for the 2023 Population Census exercise from inception to date.

Second, a full breakdown of all disbursements, including amounts, dates, beneficiaries, and the purpose for which each payment was made. Third, the expected deliverables or outcomes tied to the funds disbursed so far. Fourth, the current status of the census project and any revised timelines for completion.

Fifth, any monitoring, evaluation, or audit reports concerning the use of these funds.

The letter was received and officially acknowledged by the Office of the Executive Chairman of the National Population Commission on 2 March 2026. That stamp is on record.

As of today, March 26, 2026, more than three weeks after receipt, the National Population Commission has provided no response, no acknowledgement of the specific requests, and no indication that a response is forthcoming.

This silence is not an administrative delay. Under the Freedom of Information Act 2011, a public institution is required to respond within seven days. The National Population Commission is now in clear violation of Nigerian law.

WHY THIS MATTERS BEYOND THE NUMBERS

According to Joshua Osiyemi, the Head of Tracka, “We recognise that for some, N129.5 billion is an abstraction, a large figure in a country accustomed to large figures. We want to be clear about what this money was supposed to deliver and what its absence means in practical terms.

An accurate, credible population census is not a statistical exercise. It is the foundation upon which every serious development decision in a modern state is built. Without it, children continue to attend overcrowded classrooms because governments cannot accurately project school-age populations or allocate educational resources equitably.

Hospitals and Primary Health Centres remain under-resourced because health planners are working with projections that are now two decades out of date. Federal allocations to states and local governments are distributed based on population estimates that no longer reflect demographic reality, deepening regional inequality and political grievance.

Social protection programmes from conditional cash transfers to school feeding schemes are designed on guesswork rather than evidence, meaning the most vulnerable Nigerians are routinely missed. Electoral representation, constituency delineation, and the allocation of political seats continue to rest on figures from 2006, a structural injustice embedded in Nigeria’s democratic architecture.

Behind every one of these consequences are real people, including children, patients, farmers, and mothers whose needs are systematically undercounted because Nigeria has not done what every serious country does as a matter of routine governance.”

N129.5 billion was paid, at least in part, to address this problem. The problem remains entirely unaddressed. Is the money gone? Meanwhile, the National Population Commission has not explained what happened.

OUR DEMANDS

Tracka, as a programme of BudgIT Foundation, makes the following formal demands:

To the National Population Commission: Respond to our Freedom of Information request immediately and in full, as required by law.

Publish a comprehensive public account of every naira disbursed for the 2023 census exercise, including the identity of all contractors, the value of all contracts, and the deliverables received against each payment. Provide a clear, time-bound roadmap for when Nigeria will have a credible, completed population census.

To the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission: We urge the Commission to take a serious interest in the disbursement and utilisation of the N129.5 billion tracked for this exercise. The scale of spending against the complete absence of outcomes warrants urgent investigative attention.

To the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission: We call on the Commission to examine the procurement processes through which contracts for Personal Digital Assistants, Hilux vehicles, power banks, and other accessories were awarded, and to determine whether due process was followed and whether value for money was obtained.

To the National Assembly Public Account Committee: The legislature has both the constitutional authority and the civic responsibility to summon the National Population Commission for a public hearing on the utilisation of census funds. We call on the relevant committees of both chambers to exercise that authority without delay. Nigerians deserve to hear these answers in public.

A FINAL WORD

Tracka exists because Nigerians deserve a government that can be held to account, not only at election time, but every day and in every line of the public budget. We will continue to track, verify, and publish findings on the use of public funds, regardless of the agency involved or the political sensitivity of the subject matter.

The suspended 2023 census is not simply a technocratic failure. It is a symbol of a governance culture in which billions can be spent, projects can be abandoned, laws can be violated, and institutions can remain silent without consequence.

We do not accept that silence. Nigeria cannot plan its future without knowing its people. And Nigerians cannot trust their government without knowing where their money went.

We will be watching. And we will keep asking.

Leadway Strengthens Commitment to Healthcare Advancement with Support for 2026 AMSA Medical Education Conference

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Business Journal

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27/03/2026

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Leadway, Nigeria’s leading non-banking financial and wellbeing conglomerate, has reinforced its commitment to advancing healthcare and medical education across Africa with the announcement of its support for the Association of Medical Schools in Africa Medical Education Conference 2026.

The 2026 conference themed “Increasing Capacity and Retention of the Global Health Workforce,” will convene a diverse audience of medical schools, healthcare professionals, academics, and industry stakeholders.

The event is designed to foster learning, collaboration, and innovation, while addressing critical challenges facing healthcare systems across Africa and beyond.

“At Leadway, we recognise that healthcare is fundamental to sustainable development and national prosperity,” said Managing Director, Leadway Pensure, Olusakin Labeodan on behalf of the Leadway Group.

“Investing in platforms that strengthen medical education and support the development of a resilient health workforce is both a responsibility and a strategic imperative. Our support for the AMSA Medical Education Conference reflects our commitment to building systems that empower healthcare professionals, drive innovation, and improve outcomes across Africa.”

Also speaking on the initiative, Dr. Tokunbo Alli, Managing Director of Leadway Health, highlighted the company’s passion for progressive healthcare delivery. “We believe that the future of healthcare in Africa depends on how well we equip, support, and retain our medical workforce. By supporting initiatives like this conference, especially the Bioethics workshop, we are contributing to the development of well-rounded professionals who are not only clinically competent but also grounded in ethical practice and global standards.”

The AMSA Medical Education Conference continues to serve as a vital platform for engagement, bringing together thought leaders and emerging professionals to exchange ideas, build networks, and shape the future of healthcare delivery on the continent.

About AMSA

The Association of Medical Schools in Africa (AMSA), conceived in 1961 at the University of Ibadan and formally inaugurated in Kampala in 1963, serves as Africa’s leading voice in medical education. Revitalised by the WHO and African Union, AMSA drives collaborations to address Africa’s evolving health challenges.

About Leadway

Leadway is one of Nigeria’s foremost non-banking financial and wellbeing conglomerates, providing a comprehensive range of solutions across life and general insurance, health management, hospitality, and other financial services.

Established in 1970 and headquartered in Lagos, Leadway has built a distinguished legacy spanning over five decades, defined by resilience, innovation, and customer-focused excellence.

The Group remains dedicated to advancing sustainable growth, fostering community empowerment, and strengthening development of healthcare in Africa.

CBN Reaffirms Oversight, Assures Stability of Union Bank After Court Ruling

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Business Journal

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27/03/2026

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The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) acknowledges the judgment delivered on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, by the Federal High Court in Lagos concerning its regulatory action on Union Bank of Nigeria Plc (UBN) in January 2024.

The Bank is currently obtaining the Certified True Copy of the judgment and will review it carefully, reaffirming its unwavering commitment to the rule of law. As the apex regulatory authority, the CBN remains committed to acting in accordance with its mandate and established legal processes.

The CBN assures the public that UBN’s status is unchanged and that it remains fully capable of meeting its obligations to customers, depositors, and all stakeholders.

The CBN will continue to provide the necessary regulatory oversight to ensure Union Bank operates in a safe, sound, and stable manner, while maintaining public confidence in the financial system.

Mutual Benefits Strengthens Customer Confidence with ₦4.2bn February Claims Payout

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Business Journal

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27/03/2026

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Mutual Benefits Assurance Plc, a leading player in Nigeria’s insurance industry, has paid a total of ₦4.2 billion in claims to policyholders in February 2026, reaffirming its commitment to delivering on its promises and supporting customers in times of need.

The payout reflects the company’s continued focus on claims settlement as a core pillar of its operations. Of the total amount disbursed, ₦2,328,265,311.83 was paid under the General (Non-Life) insurance portfolio, while ₦1,968,325,081.02 covered Life businesses, including Group Life and Retail Life policies.

Beyond the figures, the significance of claims payment lies in its real-life impact, particularly in helping individuals recover from loss and enabling businesses to maintain continuity in the face of disruption.

For one beneficiary, a business owner in the construction sector, a recent claim settlement proved critical during a challenging period:

“We encountered an unexpected loss on one of our project sites that could have significantly disrupted our timelines and increased costs. However, the prompt settlement we received from Mutual Benefits helped us stay on track and avoid further financial strain. It reinforced our confidence that insurance truly works when you need it most.”

Such outcomes highlight the practical value of insurance as a financial safety net in an increasingly uncertain operating environment.

In Nigeria’s insurance landscape, trust remains a key driver of adoption. Industry observers note that consistent claims settlement is one of the most effective ways to strengthen public confidence.

According to Kelvin Owok, an industry analyst: “The real test of any insurance company is not in policy sales but in claims payment. When insurers consistently meet their obligations, it sends a strong signal to the market and encourages wider participation.”

Mutual Benefits’ steady track record of claims payments continues to position it as a dependable partner for individuals, SMEs and corporate organisations.

Claims payments also play a broader economic role by injecting liquidity into businesses and households, enabling recovery and supporting financial stability.

As Nigeria’s economic landscape evolves, the role of insurance in mitigating risk and protecting investments becomes increasingly critical. By ensuring timely claims settlement, Mutual Benefits contributes to business resilience and economic continuity across sectors.

The February payout builds on the company’s consistent performance in claims settlement, reflecting operational efficiency and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction.

As Mutual Benefits continues to expand its reach and deepen engagement with customers, its focus remains clear: to provide reliable protection, deliver value at critical moments and strengthen trust in the insurance industry.

NCC Reaffirms Commitment to Expanding Broadband Access to Underserved Communities in Plateau State

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Business Journal

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25/03/2026

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L-R: Deputy Director, Legal and Regulatory Services, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Lawrence Abang; Plateau State Deputy Governor, Josephine Piyo; Executive Governor, Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang; Executive Commissioner Stakeholder Management, NCC, Rimini Makama; Director, Digital Economy, NCC, Helen Obi during the Commission’s courtesy visit on the Plateau State Governor in Jos, Plateau State.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to fully leverage its mandate to deliver broadband access to underserved communities, which it said is central to its broader efforts of improving access to the opportunities that robust connectivity can unlock.

This position was reiterated on Monday during a courtesy visit by the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, NCC, Ms. Rimini Makama, to the Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, at the Government House, Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State.

During the visit, the Commission described Plateau State as a strategic and indispensable partner in the advancement of Nigeria’s national broadband agenda, citing the State’s strong educational base, growing innovation ecosystem, youthful population, and policy direction that supports digital transformation.

Ms. Makama said: “The NCC has identified Plateau State as a pivotal partner in Nigeria’s broadband agenda; not ceremonially, but strategically. You have the educational institutions, the growing innovation ecosystem at nHub and beyond, the youth talent, and now a Governor whose public commitments; from the Right of Way policy to the TechFest declaration, signal the political will that digital infrastructure demands.”

“We have taken notice. At the same time, we must be honest: many rural LGAs remain underserved, cut off from the digital economy that could transform their livelihoods. Bridging that divide is a shared responsibility, and the NCC is ready to fulfil its part,” she declared.

She further stated that the visit was “the beginning of a conversation” and that the NCC has a genuine desire to explore how its mandate and instruments can align with Plateau state’s “development agenda, from supporting the operationalisation of Right of Way policy, to exploring how the NCCs Universal Service Provision Fund can reach underserved communities across Plateau’s LGAs.”

Ms. Makama said the Commission’s recognition of Plateau State is based not on symbolism, but on clear indicators of digital potential already visible in the State.

She pointed to ongoing reforms, including Right of Way policy support and commitments made by the State Government at the Plateau TechFest, as evidence of the administration’s willingness to create an enabling environment for broadband expansion and innovation-led growth.

According to her, such policy alignment is critical to building the infrastructure foundation required for sustainable digital development.

The Executive Commissioner had observed that despite the State’s growing digital promise, many rural Local Government Areas remain underserved and excluded from the benefits of reliable connectivity. She noted that the persistence of access gaps in such communities continues to limit opportunities for education, enterprise, innovation, and access to digital services.

Receiving the Executive Commissioner for Stakeholder Management of the NCC, His Excellency, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, commended the Commission’s recognition of Plateau State’s digital potential. He described the visit as both timely and significant, aligning with the administration’s declaration of 2025 as the year of digital innovation.

The Governor emphasised the need to move from policy discussions to practical, high-impact implementation, particularly in emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence.

He noted ongoing initiatives, including collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on establishing an innovation hub at Plateau State Polytechnic, and an existing Memorandum of Understanding with Solitran to accelerate broadband deployment statewide.

Highlighting the economic opportunities within the digital sector, Governor Mutfwang announced plans for a Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) initiative designed to create jobs for at least 500 young people who will work remotely from Jos. He stressed the urgency required to seize these time-sensitive opportunities and avoid losing competitive advantage.

The Governor further underscored the importance of a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to digital transformation, expressing concern over outdated administrative practices and emphasised the need for rapid adoption of modern, technology-driven systems to enhance governance, improve service delivery, and unlock opportunities in e-commerce and innovation.

NGX Group Commends Happy Woman Digital Platform Initiative, Seeks Partnership

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Business Journal

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25/03/2026

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Being text of the speech by Alhaji (Dr.) Umaru Kwairanga, Group Chairman of NGX Group at the launch of the Happy Woman Digital Platform in Lagos.

I am very happy to be part of the launch of the Happy Woman Digital Platform, an initiative that I believe will have positive impact on the lives of Nigerian women.

As a father of Four Lovely and Brilliant Young Ladies, I am interested in any initiative that will enable women achieve their rightful place as equal partners in nation building.

Also, as a keen admirer of the leadership of our President, His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and an APC stakeholder myself, I welcome programmes such as the Renewed Hope Social Impact Interventions which are structured to bring the benefits of the administration’s programmes closer to the ordinary citizens and make them feel and know the advantages of good governance.

I am pleased to see that the Happy Woman Digital Platform is an online initiative as that is going to be attractive to our youths who are technologically savvy and prefer to do most things on their handsets and digital devices.

Such a platform should also be faster, more transparent and efficient than manual systems that depend on human beings and paperwork. My advice, however, is that you should ensure that the system is robust and protected from cyber-attacks and downtimes.

I also wish to suggest that it includes a local languages component and makes room for training so that it can reach more of our women at the grassroots, especially in the northern part of our country.

Let me, on behalf of the Nigerian Exchange Group, confirm that as an organisation that is committed to diversity and gender equality, we would be interested in discussing how the NGX can be part of this commendable initiative and that we look forward to partnering with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development to drive the platform to success.

In conclusion, I wish to commend the Honourable Minister, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim for the tremendous work she has been doing in the Ministry and wish her greater success in the days ahead.

Thank you very much.

Alhaji (Dr) Umaru Kwairanga

Chairman NGX Group

As AI Reshapes PR, EvaluatePR Examines Trust, Truth and the Future of Communication

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Business Journal

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25/03/2026

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P+ Measurement Services, Nigeria’s leading independent media intelligence and PR measurement agency, will host the 31st edition of its flagship thought-leadership platform, EvaluatePR on Friday, March 27, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. (WAT).

Themed “PR After the Algorithm: Trust, Truth & Intelligence in 2026,” this virtual session will convene professionals across public relations, communications, and media measurement to explore how algorithms, artificial intelligence, and digital ecosystems are reshaping reputation management, media influence, and audience trust.

With the increasing role of automation in communications, the event will challenge professionals to rethink how credibility is built and sustained in a fast-evolving digital landscape, while emphasizing the need for transparency, ethical measurement, and strategic intelligence.

The session will feature a distinguished lineup of speakers representing diverse expertise across global communications, media intelligence and analytics: Felicia Nugroho – Director, Analytics & Insights, Maverick Indonesia / Chair, Asia Pacific & International Board Director, AMEC; Cyrille Djami – Founder & Publisher, CommsOfAfrica; Strategic Communications, Editorial and Influence Consultant; Amrita Sidhu—Managing Director, Medianet / Director & Board Representative, AsiaNet / Board Member, AMEC; and Satira Osemudiamen Oreweme – Principal Consultant, Satira Media & Public Relations Limited.

Together, they will lead insightful discussions on how communicators can navigate the intersection of technology and trust, maintain authenticity in automated environments, and leverage data-driven intelligence to deliver meaningful communication outcomes.

Participation in the session is free, with access available via the official registration link:
https://bit.ly/4stWjUh

About P+ Measurement Services
P+ Measurement Services is Nigeria’s foremost media intelligence and public relations measurement agency.

As a trusted partner to brands and communication teams, the agency provides data-driven insights that evaluate media performance, reputation impact, and communication effectiveness.

Through its commitment to ethical measurement practices and global standards, P+ empowers organisations to make informed decisions that drive meaningful business outcomes.

NCDMB ES Upbeat about Radisson Hotel, Yenagoa as SA’s Edison Corp Promises World-class Services

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Business Journal

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25/03/2026

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The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB), Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, has expressed confidence that the five-star Radisson Hotel and Conference Centre, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, would be completed and commissioned in December 2026, just as South Africa’s Edison Corporation, incorporating Radisson Hotels Group, assured of world-class services.

Addressing visiting top executives of Edison Corporation and Megastar Technical and Construction Company, at the conclusion of a one-day project management tour and workshop at the Nigerian Content Tower (NCT), Swali, Yenagoa, Engr. Ogbe described the hospitality facility as a top priority project to the Board, whose progress he would be “following up every day, every week.”

“This project is critical to the Board, critical to Yenagoa, and to Bayelsa State and Nigeria,” he stated, adding, “With this hotel becoming functional at the end of the year, I believe there will be tourism in Bayelsa State; and that’s one of my dreams.”

According to him, “When I took up this job [as Executive Secretary in December 2024], I said I must make this hotel work.”

He commended the team from Edison Corporation and the project contractor, Megastar Technical and Construction Company, for the quality and pace of work, and reminded its Management that much responsibility rests on the company for delivery on schedule.

Engr. Ogbe said, “most of the critical aspects of the project have been resolved in terms of mark-up room, scope of work in terms of financing and contracting strategies,” and that he was sure all hands would be on deck to ensure that work proceeded unhampered.

In his own remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of Edison Corporation, Mr. Vivian Reddy, said the team from Edison Hotel Group was very excited to have come into a contractual arrangement with the NCDMB, assuring that “Radisson Hotel and Conference Centre, Yenagoa, will put this place on the world map.”

According to him, “what is so important with the group Radisson International is that, if anyone around the world looks for Radisson Yenagoa, they will see this place pop up and it’s going to help to uplift the area in terms of visitors and tourism.”

In a brief interaction with media men, he said: “Our role is to make sure we deliver a world-class quality hotel; from start to finish, we will open the hotel; we will furnish it.” He disclosed that his company is working with the main contractor to make sure the facility meets world-class standards.

On how the contractual deal with the NCDMB got finally sealed, he noted that it took great efforts. According to him, “getting Radisson in here wasn’t easy: It took months and months – in fact over one and a half years – of discussions and thousands of pages of documentation.”

He pointed out that such rigorous processes were not without gains. In his words, “when a group like Radisson, one of the largest hotel groups in the world, decides and commits that they will come in here, it actually is a mark of confidence in the area.”

The Edison boss, who is reputed to be the first South African businessman to lead a high-level business delegation from that country to Nigeria during the tenure of President Thabo Mbeki in 1999, was full of commendation for the NCDMB boss, describing him as “a great visionary, an excellent leader.”

“His vision and dream are going to become a reality,” he assured, adding, “we’re going to help him and make it – and it’s going to be the best hotel in this region.”

He also commended the project contractors and professional teams involved, stating that his team has every confidence in their technical competence.

On the team of Edison Corporation and Radisson International were Brian Sibusiso Mpono and Govindasami Monogren, among others.

The Radisson Hotel and Conference Centre, Yenagoa, as the NCDMB explained in a statement by the General Manager, Corporate Communications Division, Dr. Obinna Ezeobi, is designed to meet global five-star standards and is expected to serve as a strategic hub for industry conferences, investor engagements and high-level business meetings, thereby boosting economic activities in Bayelsa State and the Niger Delta.

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