News From Nigeria
Nigerian women task Tinubu on Akpoti-Uduaghan
Nigerian women on Monday spoke out against the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the signatures to recall the Kogi Central representative.
“This is the example of tyranny, harsh and unfair decisions”
They also asked President Bola Tinubu and Senator Godswill Akpabio to use their good offices to protect and defend the rights of women in Nigeria.
“The suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan disgusted many people. The dispute in the senate caused much doubt about the honesty of male politicians in the country”
The influential women reformers at a meeting to discuss the social, civil and religious conditions and rights of women in Nigeria urged the senate to lift the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan.
‘It has been established that suspension and recall processes are not appropriate responses to disagreement concerning a senate president and a member of the senate.
They called upon God to afflict people behind Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recall processes with madness and imbecility.
Particularly, the women condemned the violation of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s rights and the treatment of women politicians as children and instruments of emotional satisfaction in the country’s politics.
Chairperson of South-South Women Rights Movement, Mrs Alice Anene presented the stance of the women to local and foreign journalists.
The highly intelligent and spirited women advised Akpabio to conduct himself honourably as Senate president.
“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is a great fighter and remarkable public servant. She is also the most trusted and best informed person to ever represent Kogi Central”
The crusaders of women rights denounced the plot by desperate chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to get rid of Akpoti-Uduaghan.
“They hired fake people and poured money into destroying Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan”
The women argued that the recall process was not necessary because it might lead to more harm than good for women, Kogi Central and the nation’s democracy.
“History is recited in favour of those who have won. But in this case, recall agitators and those behind the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan Uduaghan should be ashamed of themselves”
The Joint Congress of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU) and the Amalgamated Union Public Corporations, Civil Service, Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE) on Thursday expressed deep concerns over the troubling state of affairs at the National Theatre Complex.
‘’At the inception of the renovation of the National Theatre, the then Honourable Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, assured all stakeholders, including organized labour that the renovation would be completed within eighteen months and that no single job would be lost as a result of the process. These assurances were meant to inspire confidence, safeguard institutional integrity and protect workers’ rights during the transformational phase of this iconic national asset. However, five years after the commencement of the said renovation project, we regret to inform you that these promises have remained largely unfulfilled and the realities on the ground are now completely at variance with the assurance given’’
They also condemned the denial of access to designated offices within the National Theatre complex.
‘’This continued restriction has not only affected administrative productivity but has also subjected our members to psychological discomfort, professional displacement and operational stagnation. The absence of access to official workspaces is in direct contradiction to earlier commitments and undermines the fundamental principles of fairness and workplace inclusion’’
At a world press conference in Lagos, the Labour Unions lamented the sidelining of the management of the National Theatre, particularly the General Manager/Chief Executive Officer.
‘’The General Manager is often not informed about high-level visits and official tours within the complex. A recent example is the visit of the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the delegation recently. Such visits occurring without the knowledge of the substantive management, represents a serious breakdown in institutional protocol, coordination and transparency. This anomaly has become recurrent and portends a threat to the autonomy and operational integrity of the management structure of the National Theatre’’.
The stance of the unions was presented to journalists in Lagos by Comrade Ishola Adejumo, RATTAWU Chairman, Lagos State, Comrade Bimbola Oluyeye, RATTAWU Secretary, Lagos State, Comrade Olatunji Omodolapo, AUPCTRE Chairperson and Comrade Omotola Babatunde, AUPCTRE Secretary.
‘’The National Theatre is the nation’s heritage and it will be not be ceded to any person or groups as some have chosen to frame it. That the renovation is to restore the National Theatre back to its former glory and it will cost N25, billion to do that. That no single job will be loss as more jobs will be created’’ the unions recollected the words of Alhaji Lai Mohammed.
They said workers were abandoned in the course of the memorandum of understanding signed by Lai Mohammed and the then Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Mr Godwin Emefiele.
Particularly, the unions decried the inhibition of internally organized programmes despite official payments.
‘’Equally troubling is the recurring refusal to allow National Theatre Staff and departments to organize internal programmes within the complex, even when such programmes have been duly approved and paid for through the Treasury Single Account (TSA). This deliberate suppression of legitimate institutional programing not only affect revenue generation but also contradict the very essence of the National Theatre as a hub for cultural expression and creativity’’
NEC/OHC/250314
March 15th, 2025
OKAKURO ROBERT ONOME SHOULD ATTEND TO FEDERAL HIGH COURT CONTEMPT PROCESS INSTEAD OF SHOPPING FOR FORA TO SAVE HIMSELF
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union had an Emergency Meeting on March 15, 2025 to deliberate on the outcome of the application by Okakuro Robert Onome, former President General of the Okpe Union at the Delta State High Court, Orerokpe.
Background
On October 3, 2020, HRM Orhue I, Orodje of Okpe, purportedly dissolved the elected NEC of the Okpe Union which was then headed by Okakuro Robert Onome and imposed his own Interim National Executive led by one Prof. Emurobome Idolor. As Okakuro Onome had just then been appointed by the Orodje as the District Head of Ughoton District (which made him a sub-traditional ruler), he, rather than protecting the autonomy of the Okpe Union according to hi its Constitution, opted to publicly support the taking over of the administration of the Okpe Union by the palace and pledged to work with the Interim Executive that the Orodje had imposed. The Interim Executive in turn appointed Okakuro Onome as one of the trustees of the Okpe Union which they submitted to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Following the purported dissolution by the Orodje, members of NEC previously headed by Okakuro Onome before his abdication of office and betrayal, resolved to abide by the provisions of the Okpe Union Constitution by rejecting the attempt to take over the administration of the Union by the palace. Mr. Patrick Akpotor, the next in hierarchy, according to the Okpe Union Constitution, assumed the position of Acting President General and presided over the already fixed General Assembly of the Okpe Union which took place on November 14, 2020. The General Assembly, being the highest decision making organ of the Union resolved to reject the attempted take-over of the Okpe Union by the palace; directed the elected NEC to complete its tenure; set up an Electoral Committee to organise elections as soon as the tenure completes and also directed the NEC, headed by Mr. Akpotor, (who was Deputy to Okakuro Onome), to seek legal redress over the actions of the Orodje if mediation fails.
On May 15, 2021, a new NEC headed by Prof. Igho Natufe was elected at the expiration of the tenure of the NEC that the Orodje purportedly dissolved. Rather than recognising the new executive, the palace continued funding the imposed faction to undermine the newly elected leadership. As three different attempts to get the Orodje to understand that his interference in the administration of the Okpe Union was unlawful failed, the Prof. Natufe led NEC opted to implement the General Assembly resolution to seek legal redress at the Federal High Court, Lagos which gave judgment on January 19, 2023 in favour of the elected NEC. Incidentally, the illegal faction had surreptitiously procured a new certificate for the Okpe Union with a new Board of Trustees which included Okakuro Onome (the former President General that abdicated office). The illegal Interim Executive had also in anticipation of a loss in the Federal High Court case arranged a kangaroo election and handed over to another group headed by Okakuro Joseph Aboze. The Prof. Natufe led leadership promptly filed an application before the Federal High Court, Abuja, which the illegal group had approached to authorise the appointment of the trustees. The Abuja Court vacated the authorising order, nullified the Board of Trustees and directed the CAC to expunge their names (including Okakuro Onome), from the records of the CAC relating to the Okpe Union.
After the illegal faction represented by Prof. Emurobome Idolor led group and later Okakuro Joseph Aboze stepped aside in response to the judgment of the Federal High Court, Lagos and the ruling of the Federal High Court Abuja, Okakuro Onome declared himself President General describing himself as the beneficiary of the judgment of the Federal High Court, Lagos. He filed a case at the Delta State High Court, Orerokpe, asking the court to interpret the judgement of the Federal High Court, Lagos in his favour and claimed that six of the members of the current NEC led by Prof. Natufe are also part of his EXCO.
As a law-abiding organisation, the Okpe Union led by Prof. Natufe entered an appearance at the Orerokpe High Court. In response to Okakuro Onome parading himself as President General of the Okpe Union after his tenure had ended on November 16, 2020, and the tenure of the NEC after him is even nearing completion, the Prof. Natufe leadership got the process of Contempt of Court (Form 48) of the Federal High Court, Lagos, which gave the judgement over which he seeks interpretation, served on him so that he would be at the proper forum to argue that he is the beneficiary of the judgment. It is therefore shocking that the Delta State High Court, Orerokpe, has given a ruling on March 14, 2025, endorsing Okakuro Onome as President General. In light of the above, the NEC of the Okpe Union, at its Emergency Meeting on March 15, 2025, reviewed the events at the Delta State High Court, Orerokpe and resolved as follows:
NEC Resolutions
Okpe! Agbamueni!
Long live Okpe Union.!
Long live Okpe Kingdom!
Long live the Orodje of Okpe Kingdom!
Prof. Igho Natufe
President General, Okpe Union (Worldwide).
Barr. Kingsley Ehensiri Akpederin
General Secretary, Okpe Union (Worldwide).
Julius Berger marks International Women’s Day with calls for action on gender equality
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc marked International Women’s Day (IWD) with events in Abuja, Lagos, Warri, Port Harcourt, and Uyo, reinforcing its commitment to gender equality and workplace inclusion. In a display of companywide unity, employees across these locations gathered for keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions under the global theme #AccelerateAction for Gender Equality, with a focus on allyship and leadership.
Gathered at the event were leaders from financial services, the Nigeria Institute of Quantity Surveyors, and regional and functional heads from Julius Berger, all reinforcing the shared responsibility of advancing gender equality. The Director General of the NIQS Foundation, Dr. Celestina Eke, delivered the keynote speech at the Abuja event, while Alhaji Dr. Abdulaziz Kaita, Julius Berger’s Director of Administration, underscored the company’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and progress.
Eke, speaking on men as allies, called for a shift beyond affirmative action to transformative change. Gender equality is not just a women’s issue; it is a strategic imperative for economic growth, sustainable development, and global competitiveness,”she said; adding, for real progress, we must move from support to action. Allyship is not about stepping aside, it is about stepping up. It requires men to use their influence, privilege, and leadership to challenge biases, break barriers, and drive systemic change.
She praised Julius Berger for excelling not only in infrastructure and engineering but in fostering diversity and empowerment. She described the IWD movement as a call to rethink, reimagine, and reconstruct the foundations of industry, institutions, and society.
Alhaji Dr. Abdulaziz Kaita did not mince words in affirming the importance of International Women’s Day and the role of women in every society. Today, we celebrate the countless contributions of women in every sphere of life—politics, science, business, arts, sports, education, and within our own families. We honour the trailblazers who have shattered ceilings and defied expectations, as well as the everyday heroes—mothers, daughters, sisters, and friends—who uplift and inspire us daily, Kaita said.
While acknowledging the progress made, Kaita called for continued reflection and action. Women still face barriers to leadership, unequal pay, and gender-based violence. In some parts of the world, access to education and healthcare remains a distant dream for many girls, he said.
In Lagos, a panel of female leaders within Julius Berger explored how women can balance professional growth with family responsibilities while embracing leadership opportunities. The discussion, featuring senior figures from commercial, legal, and engineering functions, emphasized the strengths women bring to the workplace, particularly in multitasking and strategic decision-making.
Senior Executive Manager, Ndifreke Nkocho encouraged women to speak up, seek mentorship, and create support networks, proposing regular forums for women to discuss career challenges and development opportunities.
In Warri, employees took part in an engaging keynote session, team-building games, and a sip-and-paint activity, reinforcing the spirit of empowerment and unity. The Branch Manager of UBA Warri-Sapele Road, Mrs. Abimbola Erivona, shared her personal journey navigating the corporate world, highlighting both the challenges and triumphs of leadership as a woman. She urged attendees to strive for excellence and embrace opportunities for career growth.
Julius Berger ensured that female employees across all regions had time to celebrate the global event, with activities in Warri, Port Harcourt, Uyo, Lagos, and Abuja. The company’s commitment to diversity, equity, and leadership development continues to shape its workplace culture, as its women reaffirmed their resolve to break barriers and accelerate action for progress.
In an industry historically dominated by men, particularly at senior leadership levels, the comprehensive engagement seen across Julius Berger’s IWD events underscored the company’s commitment to shifting that narrative. From candid discussions on career advancement to calls for greater allyship and systemic change, the event went beyond celebration; it reinforced the urgency of action. As Nigeria continues to push for greater representation of women in leadership, Julius Berger’s efforts serve as a reminder that progress requires deliberate and sustained commitment.
Niger Delta women on Wednesday decried human rights abuses and disrespect for women in the country.
They also called the suspension of the senator Representing Kogi Central, Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan ‘’silly and callous’’.
“This is the height of wickedness. We cannot agree with the Senate Ethics Committee.”
The women in a statement in Calabar denounced the Senate leadership and demanded that the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan be lifted immediately.
“The presiding officer is difficult and dictatorial. He is well known for his contemptuous, dismissive and sarcastic ways. His leadership style is causing dissention and distress.”
The statement issued in Calabar by the Chairperson of Niger Delta Women Forum (NDWF), Mrs. Comfort Bassey, accused the Senate President of undermining family ties and resisting the voice of honour and reason.
“We conjure you to look into your heart and to hearken to the secret voice of conscience.”
The highly respected women applauded Akpoti-Uduaghan for taking significant steps to improve the quality of life for the people of Kogi Central.
“Your courage is an inspiration to all of us.”
Principally, the women accused some male political office holders of abusing the human rights of women and harming national, ethnic and religious groups in the country.
The statement denounced arbitrary rules, culture of betrayal and ferocious spirit of despotism.
“The Senate is not a place in which leaders get away with being mean and nasty.
It also condemned trace of bitterness, vicious, crude and inhuman punishments.
Two respected families in the South-South geo-political zone on Monday highlighted the humble background, personality and contributions of Chief Veronica Ekpera Ebireri to the country.
‘’It is no gain-saying that Chief Veronica Ekpera was an epitome of kindness’’
The prominent Agbon and Okpe families in a statement entitled ‘’ The life and works of a pragmatic woman, transporter, saw miller, fish and rice dealer ’’ highlighted Veronica Ebireri’s extraordinary life, pleasant upbringing of many and all she did to instill self-respect in her children.
‘’Throughout her sojourn, Mrs. Veronica Ebireri led an exemplary and worthy life. She gave her life serving others’’
The statement delivered on behalf of the families of Ebireri and Umukoro by Media and Political Consultant, Henry Ovie Ebireri applauded Chief Veronica Ekpera Ebireri for performing her duties as daughter, wife, mother and sister excellently.
The statement recalled her words and the few times she raised her voice.
‘’When the Chief Executive Officer of Oghene-Ochuko Motors died, many people dropped tears. They felt the deep vacuum that her unfortunate death created’’
The modest and humble daughter of a proud Agbon parents, Chief Veronica Ebireri married a highly respected Niger Delta business tycoon, Chief Festus Omajemite Ebireri.
The statement applauded Chief Veronica Ekpera Ebireri for displaying great energy and zeal as a businesswoman.
‘’Mrs. Veronica Ebireri was ambitious, her eyes on the big chance for economic advancement’’
The statement praised her for shouldering the responsibilities of the Ebireri, Umukoro, Diegholo, Ochu and Erove families.
The statement emphasized moral integrity, her sense of responsibility towards the husband, sisters, brothers, children and grandchildren.
The statement highlighted her contributions to her native Agbon Kingdom, problems and the tragedies after her demise.
The families also expressed shock at the recent legal action of cousins and grandchildren over the possessions of Veronica Ebireri and Oyavbewe Diegholo, describing the action of these people as another aspect of greed and madness.
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Senate President Mr Godswill Akpabio to “immediately rescind the patently unlawful suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, as the purported suspension is based solely on the peaceful exercise of her constitutionally and internationally recognized right to freedom of expression.”
SERAP said, “The Senate should immediately reinstate Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan, and revise parliamentary procedures that unduly restrict senators’ human rights.”
The Senate last week suspended Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan for six months, after she reportedly ‘spoke without permission’ and ‘refused her new seat in the upper legislative chamber.’ Her salary and allowances will not be paid for the duration of the suspension and she was banned from representing herself as a senator.
In the open letter dated 8 March 2025 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “No one should ever be punished for ‘speaking without permission’. Being a senator does not deprive Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan of her fundamental human rights.”
SERAP said, “The Senate should be setting an example by upholding the rule of law and promoting and protecting fundamental human rights, not stamping them out.”
According to SERAP, “Punishing Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan solely for peacefully expressing herself is unlawful, unnecessary and disproportionate. Her suspension would also have a disproportionate chilling effect on the ability of other members of the Senate to freely express themselves and exercise their human rights.”
SERAP also said, “Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension is based solely on the peaceful exercise of her right to freedom of expression in the Senate. All the other grounds cited by the Senate for her suspension seem to be a pretext to further restrict her fundamental human rights.”
The letter, read in part, “We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 48 hours of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel you and the Senate to comply with our requests in the public interest.”
“Any application of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 by the Senate must conform with constitutional and international human rights norms and standards relating to freedom of expression and should not jeopardise the right itself.”
“Suspending Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan for peacefully exercising her right to freedom of expression has made her opinion in the Senate ineffective.”
“No member of the Senate should suffer any consequences for peacefully exercising their freedom of expression. A higher degree of tolerance is expected when it is a political speech and an even higher threshold is required when it is directed towards government officials including members of the Senate.”
“The unlawful restriction of Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan’s right to freedom of expression has indirectly violated Nigerians’ right to receive information and ideas and seriously undermined the right of her constituency to political participation.”
“Given the impracticality of direct participation of all citizens, article 13 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights provides that a citizen shall exercise political power either directly or through freely chosen representatives.”
“The suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate has restricted and seriously undermined the ability of the residents of her Kogi Central Senatorial District to effectively participate in their own government. The suspension therefore constitutes a violation of article 13 provisions.”
“The Senate has the obligations to uphold the rule of law and the provisions of section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution and Nigeria’s obligations under article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.”
“Section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] provides that, ‘(1) Every person shall be entitled to freedom of expression, including freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference.’”
“Under Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights: ‘1. Every individual shall have the right to receive information. 2. Every individual shall have the right to express and disseminate his opinions within the law.’”
“Article 9 (1) and (2) are substantively similar because the right ‘to receive information’ is derived from the ‘right to express and disseminate’ one’s opinions.”
“The Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression in Africa, in Principle II (2) provides that ‘any restrictions on freedom of expression shall be provided for by law, serve a legitimate interest and be necessary and in a democratic society’.”
“Article 13 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights provides that, ‘Every citizen shall have the right to participate freely in the government of his country, either directly or through freely chosen representatives in accordance with the provisions of the law.’”
“The right to express one’s opinion is of paramount importance, not only because it oils the engine of a representative democracy but also because it creates a free and open environment.”
“The right to freedom of expression is a fundamental individual human right which is also a cornerstone of democracy and a means of ensuring the respect for all human rights and freedoms.”
“The Human Rights Council, the body charged with monitoring implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights has stressed that any limitations or restrictions to freedom of expression should be applied strictly so that they do ‘not put in jeopardy the right itself.’”
“Article 19(1) of the Covenant establishes the right to freedom of opinion without interference. Article 19(2) establishes the Senate’s obligations to respect and ensure ‘the right to freedom of expression,’ which includes the freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, either orally or in writing.”
“The Senate Standing Orders 2023 (as amended) should not and cannot set aside Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan’s right to express herself and disseminate her opinions which is clearly guaranteed in section 39 of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended], and under the human rights treaties to which Nigeria is a state party.”
“According to our information, Mrs Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan was recently suspended for allegedly speaking without permission. She was also accused of “persistent acts of misconduct, blatant disregard for the provisions of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 and gross indiscipline.”
“Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan was found guilty of violating Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of the Senate Rules including repeated violations of legislative decorum, such as allegedly speaking without being recognised by the presiding officer in clear violation of parliamentary practices and procedures and refusing to sit in her assigned seat during plenary on 25th February 2025, and an act of open defiance.”
Kolawole Oluwadare
SERAP Deputy Director
9/03/2025
Lagos, Nigeria
Emails: info@serap-nigeria.org; news@serap-nigeria.org
Twitter: @SERAPNigeria
Website: www.serap-nigeria.org
For more information or to request an interview, please contact us on: +2348160537202
Abuja, the capital city of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is now aglow.
The smart leaf solar streetlight was installed in the Federal Capital Territory last week.
‘’The smart leaf solar streetlight has changed outdoor lighting in Abuja, particularly the Airport roundabout’’ a statement Friday said.
The statement issued by the Managing Director of Akogate Group, Mr. Felix Aganbi, stressed the efforts of the company to brighten Nigeria through high quality customized solar solutions.
Aganbi said the company got franchise from the SunMaster Solar Lighting Company Limited, the most professional and reliable solar LED lights manufacturer in the global market in 2025.
‘’Jinhua SunMaster Solar Lighting Company Limited is a Zhejiang based enterprise specialized in supplying solar streetlights, solar garden lights, wind & solar hybrid lights, small & medium solar generating system, solar home lighting system and solar pump system’’.
He emphasized the gains of alternative sources of electricity supply, the features, benefits, and applications of Smart Leaf solar streetlights as well as the desire of Akogate Engineers to light all the streets in the country.
He explained that streetlight was one of the priorities of the current administration.
‘’We supply high quality solar streetlights, solar garden lights, wind and solar hybrid lights, mobile solar lights towers and solar pump system’’
He also stressed on facilities for catching the rays of the sun and converting their energy to electrical power.
‘’Smart Leaf solar streetlights integrate advanced technology with sustainable design to offer superior performance and reliability in urban and rural settings.
Aganbi explained how these innovative lights leverage smart technology to optimize energy usage, enhance illumination, and improve overall functionality.
Youths in Kogi State on Sunday described the suspension of the Senator representing Kogi Central, Chief Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as crude and peremptory.
‘’The 10th Senate is heading in the wrong direction’’
They also reminded the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio of the dignity of his office.
In a statement to the press, the youths asked supporters of the Senate President not to drag down the reputation of the country.
They applauded Akpoti-Uduaghan for refusing to do things which galled her sense of decency, marital status and political height.
The statement issued by the Chairman of Kogi Central Youth Movement, Alhaji Mustapha Jato in Abuja tasked President Bola Tinubu on gender reforms in Nigeria.
It praised Akpoti-Uduaghan for touching and galvanizing the good people of Nigeria, especially Kogi Central.
‘’Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is a woman of charm and faith. She is also a hardworking, energetic woman and well respected by the people because of her genuine interest in their progress’’
The youths spoke well of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s initiative, thoroughness and seriousness of purpose.
They scolded a former aide to Dr Goodluck Jonathan, Mr. Reno Omokri and his co-travellers for deviating from the truth.
‘’Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is an upright woman’’
The youths said those behind the campaign of calumny against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan were lily-livered politicians out to cause disaffection in the country.
They lauded decent Nigerians for supporting Akpoti-Uduaghan and speaking out against an absurd action.
The youths urged political office holders in the country to maintain certain standards of behavior, character and morality.
They advised hired hoodlums, sly and shifty individuals not to mislead Akpabio about troubling feud with Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The statement emphasized truth, justice, poise and endurance.
It also denounced philandering, trivialization of allegations, back-biting and breaking of ranks.
Stolle: we are taking the right steps to strengthen our presence in the region.
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is reinforcing its regional expansion strategy, aiming to solidify its presence across West Africa’s construction sector.
Speaking at the Choiseul Africa Summit in Cotonou, Benin Republic, the company’s Director of Corporate Development, Jochen Stolle, expressed confidence in Julius Berger’s growing footprint in the region.
“I see Julius Berger as one of the big players coming out of this region in the future,” he said.
At the Sofitel Marina Hotel & Spa in Cotonou, where West Africa’s movers and shakers gathered under the coastal sun, conversations weren’t just exchanged—they carried weight with more than 350 economic minds, government leaders, and industry decision-makers meeting for the Choiseul Africa Summit convened by the Choiseul Institute. It was a space to build partnerships, shape new economic strategies, and set the pace for regional growth. With the Government of Benin actively supporting the event, Julius Berger co-sponsored the summit, positioning itself at the heart of discussions on the region’s infrastructure and economic future.
Speaking to journalists on the sidelines, Stolle underscored the importance of Julius Berger’s presence at the summit. “The sponsorship for Julius Berger is very important. We attended this conference last year, and now it is coming to Benin Republic. It is a story that we have to pick up. Let us interact with other agencies, let us interact with other government bodies in all the West African countries that are in the focus of Julius Berger. Let us do the first step here, introduce us to the people, and develop anything that is coming out of it.”
He highlighted the advantages of doing business in Francophone West Africa, emphasizing economic stability and shared currency benefits. “I think the Francophone region of Africa has the greatest advantage; they have the common currency; they have a stable currency. This will also give Julius Berger the trust and the face is good development in this region.”
President of Choiseul Africa, Pascal Lorot, underscored Benin’s rising profile in the region, stating, “Benin today embodies an ambitious Africa that is firmly focused on the future. With its stability, modern infrastructure, and strategic positioning, it stands out as a market of opportunities and expertise, as well as a key hub for regional economic exchanges. Hosting the Choiseul Africa Summit in Cotonou is a recognition of Benin’s central role in driving growth and fostering cooperation in West Africa.”
Adding his perspective, Julius Berger’s Regional Representative in Cotonou, Christophe Fierens, echoed the importance of the summit. “With over 10 years of expertise, Choiseul Africa has been instrumental in highlighting attractive economic hubs across the African continent. The host country, Benin Republic, which is undergoing a remarkable transformation, has now established itself as an attractive hub for investors and a key player in regional trade,” he said.
On Julius Berger’s operations in Benin, Fierens noted key differences from Nigeria. “Operating in Benin has required a shift in approach,” Fierens said. “As a company with strong roots in Nigeria, we’ve had to adapt to the nuances of the Francophone business environment—navigating regulatory processes, understanding administrative expectations, and ensuring seamless operations. We’ve gained valuable insights and are now fully aligned with how things work here.”
Reflecting on the company’s adaptation process, Fierens said that Julius Berger had navigated these challenges through experience. “With the second project now being undertaken, things are getting better. We now know what to do, what not to do. The feedback has been valuable. Julius Berger originates from Germany in the 1900s, and since then, we have had very strict and rigorous procedures.”
He emphasized that the company is setting new benchmarks in the country. “I believe we are helping to raise standards, especially in this regard. The reputation we have built is very strong. Many people now want to work with us, and now that the project has started, we are visible everywhere in Benin. This brings a significant advantage for other projects as well. Another thing is that the country is very welcoming. The local workforce we find here is of good quality.”
Speaking earlier, Benin’s Minister of Economy and Finance, Romuald Wadagni, stated: “this summit is fully aligned with our ambition for the structural transformation of Benin, driven by world-class infrastructure and major initiatives that are redefining economic paradigms across all key sectors. This event provides an opportunity to share our vision of inclusive, innovative, and sustainable development while strengthening Benin’s strategic role at the heart of regional and international exchanges.”
The Choiseul Africa network consists of over 450 members, including 100 Africa laureates and alumni, spanning 51 of the 54 African countries.